To market, to market!

14th and U is getting a farmer's market! Or, maybe we always had a farmer's market, but it is news to me. [update: looks like there has been a market at this location in the past, but on Wednesdays.] Starting June 2, and every Saturday through the summer from 10am-2pm, local vendors will be selling their home-grown fruits and veggies just mere blocks from where I live (specifically outside of the Reeves Center). See ya Whole Foods; Safeway, I shun you. I've got the real deal now.

To me, going "to market" is such a satisfying activity, and brings me back to simpler times, or even to memories of some places I've visited in Europe. For a moment, gone are the days of chain brand supermarkets and whole sale consumer clubs. You get to meet a face behind the food you purchase, perhaps even hear a story or two. You get to support a farmer - directly. And delight in selecting a vegetable or fruit that may not look perfect on the outside, but you know that it will be the most delicious one you've tasted in quite some time.

And there is something to be said about cooking "in season." We live in a temperate climate, but that doesn't mean that certain produce should be available year-round. It is nice to relish in the delight that summer tomatoes and peaches are on their way, and to remember with fondness the winter root vegetables of yesterday's stews. A farmer's market allows you this luxury. Everything on display is in season - no hesitation - because it comes from a farm just a stone's throw away.

So, I rejoiced when I read the news last night on an inconspicuous flyer outside of the old Companion Pet Store. A farmer’s market – in MY neighborhood. You know where I’ll be on June 2.

___________________

Expenses (on the road to saving something)

• May 10:
• Nordstrom: $32.00
• May 11:
• Breakfast: $2.50
• Lunch: $8.00
• Iced tea: $2.00
• May 12:
• CVS: $3.50
• May 13:
• NJ Turnpike: $13.50

total to date: $521.09