I can remember, as a young child, getting up very early in the summer on a warm, sunny day to sit by the window and look out at the sky and the garden. The only sounds were the birds chirping. Most people, including my family, were still asleep at that time of the morning, and the peacefulness of it touched me. I also remember it as an incredibly moving experience.
Today, getting up early on a Saturday morning to visit the farmer’s market, is reminiscent of that time in my life.
It’s not that I can’t find almost any fruit and vegetable in the stores year-round through the miracle of commerce, because I can. But finding fresh seasonal produce, influenced by my location and climate is an experience that satisfies my heart. My taste buds are awakened when I eat the tomatoes and cucumbers that actually have flavor. I always plan my week’s meals around my farmer’s market purchases. The farmers’ markets that I visit have stands with high quality, homegrown produce that is divinely tasteful.
Arriving early is essential. I set my clock to make sure that I don’t oversleep so that I am one of the first to arrive at my favorite stands. My favorite farm stands are small, and many are backyard gardeners who don’t use chemicals on their produce. I consider the produce to be organic, but not necessarily “certified organic”. I only shop the stands of farmers who don’t use chemicals on their produce. Many times the supply is small and some items are very limited. I also have my knives sharpened at the market.
A variety of fresh vegetables, fruits, cheese, herbs, flowers, baked goods, prepared foods, can be purchased…and there is much more to enjoy, such as live music, and classes with information on composting.
I also believe that in a small way, during a few months of the year, I’m doing my part to reduce my carbon footprint. It is a small price to pay to not be a part of destroying the Earth. I love getting outside in the early morning, and it feels so good to return home with my bags of vegetables, and my vegan, plant-based breakfast knowing that I have done my small part to support the locals.
I love the farmer’s market!
