I'm also in SE Pennsylvania. I picked peaches this summer and paid 55 cents per pound. That's a big savings for me, compared with what I'd pay in the stores. And it's also a savings for the farmer. Fortunately, I don't have to drive 40 miles to achieve that.

While I agree that long drives and extra money for "experiences," prepared foods (like doughnuts) and playground access can add up to a costly day out, I can hardly blame the farmers benefiting from your spending choices. Farmers work hard. They feed us. And they usually make do with far below the average income in their areas. Why shouldn't they enjoy a decent living?

Eating locally has so many other good knock-on effects that it's worth our while to really consider doing, even in the unlikely event that we pay a bit more for the food. If the food you get at the supermarket seems cheaper than what you pay at the farm, rest assured, somebody somewhere and at some time is going to pay for those savings, with interest. It might be you, your children, or your grandchildren, but it will happen.