Things are looking up when it comes to the health of our kids. Two days ago, Michelle Obama announced a comprehensive initiative to end childhood obesity in a generation. The program, Let’s Move includes a broad base of smart ideas, like eliminating food deserts, giving parents better information about food, improving the school lunch program and increasing physical activity. Michelle’s words brought be to tears because she spoke from the heart with her experience as a busy mom in a way that transcends the intellectual discussion.  I hope to find a way to work with her to help build the nation’s Food IQ

Last night was equally inspiring, Chef Jamie Oliver accepted the TED Award. Here’s his “wish”

“I wish for your help to create a strong, sustainable movement to educate every child about food, inspire families to cook again and empower people everywhere to fight obesity.”

How perfect is this? He’s in direct alignment with the First Lady’s plan. We need likable chefs like Jamie to help bring this issue into the living rooms of all Americans. His ABC show, Jamie’s Food Revolution will do just that in mid March.

There’s one point that both Michelle and Jamie need to include which I don’t yet see. It’s not a fun thing to talk about but it’s as big and important as childhood obesity. It’s our oil problem. It seems the world is running low on cheap fossil fuel. That impacts everything we do, especially eating!  We need to include Peak Oil in the planning of this undertaking. That means more local foods, more gardens in schools and communities, less packaging (note: plastic is made from petroleum!), more drinking fountains.  I hope we include this in the discussion.  Jamie and Michelle, call me! I’m ready to roll up my sleeves and get to work!