Michelle Obama nearly upstaged her husband Tuesday night, when she showed up to his first address to Congress in a sleeveless purple dress ... in the middle of February. She's never afraid to show off those toned and beautiful arms, and they're proof that fitness is a priority in the Presidential household.

Of course, we already knew that. President Obama started out his inauguration day with a workout. That's dedication, folks. And Mrs. O's own friends have called her a gladiator in the gym.

It's not just exercise that keeps the Obama family fit and trim; they also eat a healthy, low-fat diet that's based in locally and sustainably grown foods. Last week, instead of walking the press through the State Dining Room to look at the linens and china, Mrs. Obama invited them into the kitchen ... to look at the food.

Highlighting some favorite dishes -- such as cream of broccoli soup and creamed spinach, both without the cream -- she made it clear she's a First Lady who isn't going to let herself go or give up on her ideals. Locally grown foods are a pet project of hers, and she's using her pull to make sure the word gets out. "If it tastes like a real carrot, and it's really sweet, they're going to think that it's a piece of candy," says Michelle. "So my kids are more inclined to try different vegetables if they are fresh and local and delicious."

She's right -- locally grown foods do taste better. And if the fruits and veggies on your plate are sweet, ripe and delicious, the First Kids aren't the only ones who are more likely to eat them ... so are you. Here are a few ways to eat like the Obamas and get more fresh and local food on your dinner table:

• Join a CSA. Get a weekly box filled to the brim with veggies you may have never heard of -- garlic scapes, arugula, patty pan squash, for example -- as well as old favorites like tomatoes (which will turn you off the store-bought version for good). Local Harvest is a good place to start, but try asking around your local farmer's market as well.
• Speaking of the farmer's market ... Often open from March until November, your local market is the perfect place to find fruit and veggies picked that very day. Fresh cantaloupe in July? Heavenly. Just be prepared to be a creative cook. In my neighborhood, there's nothing but greens until June.
• Visit a U-Pick farm. Grab your guy (or girl) and head out for a day in the sun picking berries, peaches or apples. It's good exercise, and you can recharge with your healthy bounty.
• Join a co-op. Buying clubs can often source local meat, produce and eggs at a more reasonable price.

Spring is a perfect time to start adding local foods to your weekly menu, and eating locally mean more servings of fruits and vegetables on your plate.