I love visiting the Farmer's Market here in Kalamazoo!
On Saturdays, Tom and I like go to an early spinning class at the gym . . . and then head over to the Farmer's Market on our way home.
This week, Carole has us thinking about Ten Great Things About the Farmer's Market:
- Fresh, local, in-season fruits and vegetables (That's really what it's all about!)
- Supporting local farmers ('Nuff said!)
- Fresh-baked pies and breads (Tom can never resist the baked goods.)
- Lovely cut flowers (I especially love to pick up bunches of gladiolas!)
- Home-baked dog treats (Jenny doesn't come with us to the market, but she is a Very Happy Dog when we come home.)
- Running into friends (Although it's always too crowded for more than a quick "hello.")
- Atmosphere (It's just such a pleasant way to spend a bit of time on a relaxed Saturday morning.)
- Inspired cooking and baking (Sometimes I shop with a specific list, sometimes I just let the veggies call to me!)
- Sense of community (There's more of a sense of . . . being with others and feeling part of a whole . . . at the Market; so different from the grocery store.)
- Sample trays (I love the booths that let you sample their berries and peaches and tomatoes as you shop. Mmmmmm!)
How about YOU? Are you a Farmer's Market shopper? What do you especially enjoy?
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Join the fun! Sign up for Ten on Tuesday here.
I love when I get new recipe ideas from the farmers or their helpers at the booths. Sounds like a perfect Saturday morning for you!
Posted by: Beverly | 07/24/2012 at 08:34 AM
Hmmm... Baked goodies! It seems I share more than one thing with your Tom.
Posted by: Rachel | 07/24/2012 at 08:55 AM
The baked goods --- yummmmm! I try so hard to resist.
Posted by: Donna | 07/24/2012 at 09:00 AM
Great list and photos, too!
Posted by: Carole | 07/24/2012 at 02:34 PM
The closest Farmer's Market is 60 miles away but I occasionally get there... It's a super place built especially for events like that and brand new. Food, music, a few crafts and a concession stand or two. It's a fun place!
Posted by: Marilyn | 07/24/2012 at 03:36 PM
Oh yeah, I love our Farmers' Market! For all those reasons, and more!
Posted by: Lori On Little Traverse Bay | 07/24/2012 at 05:58 PM
Beautiful market! My favorite farmers market is the one near our home. It's produce only, growers only and the selection is top notch!
Posted by: margene | 07/25/2012 at 08:28 AM
I HAVEN'T BEEN YET THIS YEAR. We don't get going unit lthe last week of June here in Chicagoland. I love your list. Homemade dog treats ! YES! I forgot. I want to see if they have cat treats this year..
There is a fresh buttered popcorn stand at ours, by the local Kiwanis.....It tempts me even at 9 am
Posted by: kathy b | 07/26/2012 at 07:07 PM