Tall Tales from Kansas

I may have gone overboard on the mini gourds

Bittersweet wreath anyone? Pendletons had them at the market on Saturday. Likely they have a good supply of them out at the farm too. Apparently the oriental bittersweet plant is considered to be an invasive species in some locales... but gosh, isn't it just lovely? 

Several varieties of "pumpculents" were on display nearby as well. Last year, mine lasted for months with no care required.  Eventually some of the plants were put in soil and then transferred outside to pots in the summer.  All part of my personal gardening experimentation plan. 

This dress was so cute! I wish I had gotten a video so you could see it "flow" as she walked. Really pretty and I highly approve of the coordinating footwear. 

Hands down, THIS is the best display of radishes I have seen at the market, all the colors, sizes, shapes. 

Then on to the squash and gourd section. Yes, I brought home some honey nut squash. 

Death by chocolate anyone? 

Did I mention these hand-drawn and colored signs last week? If so, it's worth another look.  I LOVE them. 

My haul for the week. I may have gone overboard on the mini gourds this early in the season, but I needed them.

Let me report back on the "joint oil" from a few weeks back.  I think it helps. That or I am fooling myself, but I continue to rub it into my knees twice a day. I also owe you feedback on the "re-energize" juice (carrot/apple/ginger) - wonderful. And while I am at it, this week Thuy (juice garden) gave me some Matcha coconut protein balls to try. I was sure I was not really going to like them. WRONG! I am not a fan of  drinking Matcha tea (too chalky for my taste) but these are excellent. Not to sweet, an entirely different flavor than my other favorites that will now be worked into my rotation. 

The end...

happy almost fall

Fall was on full display at the farmers market this weekend. Orange, yellow, green, round, oblong, bumpy, smooth - whatever your pleasure, in the squash/gourd family, they had it. 

The return of the "mean greens" made me happy.  I like a nice spicy salad mix. 

I had to get these two in their very different neck-wear. They were good sports and went right along with my plan. 

The bittersweet decorating the vendors booths is always so pretty, as well as the abundance of sunflowers and delightful floral arrangements in mini pumpkins. 

Another great thing about fall is that it's "jean jacket wearing" season - but with her it was the super cute skirt and boots that caught my eye.

Some of these Jonathan apples came home with me. Not for cake or crisp making as someone asked me, but rather as the perfect side dish for lunch. I love a small sweet/tartish apple that is just the right size to go with anything else you bring for the midday meal.  

Though I keep swearing I am going to try a PawPaw, I have yet to do it. 

Here is what I brought home Saturday. That butternut squash will be roasted and thrown into salads along with the kale, radishes, and yellow pepper. 

With the greens washed and drying by the sink, I am officially ready for the week. Happy almost fall. 

who over 60 doesn't need oil for their joints?

This is what came home in my basket from the farmers market on Saturday.  New things I am trying this week include a re-energize juice (carrot, apple, ginger), protein balls with coffee in them, poblano peppers, and joint oil. It's important to throw new items into the mix regularly. 

These two adventurous junior farmers brought their money with them for a snack. 

Signs of the approach of fall include pumpkins, gourds, and vendors knitting on a pair of mitts.  

These peppers are going to get pickled - and I am throwing a couple of chopped jalapeños into the cornbread muffins that will go with the chili Chris is fixing for supper. 

Why are small potatoes and tomatoes so cute? The teeny tiny tomatoes are the smallest ones I have ever seen. 

Here are the first mums of the season. They have me ready to re-do the porch with all things fall. It's too early though. Plus I will need to call Mary Joan so we can have a "fall inspiration" day prior to going to the basement for all things fall. 

Family of the week - you have to love the giraffe hanging from that baby carrying contraption. 

She is the maker of the joint oil I told you about above. It caught my eye as I rounded the corner and I pulled up to investigate. Who over 60 doesn't need oil for their joints? If it helps, and you are in my family, you will be getting a bottle for Christmas.  

I went for one last basket of peaches instead of getting the apples... fall stretches ahead for apples. The days of peaches are waning.

with a buttery slightly salty cookie and a fluffy cloud of sweet icing

The honey crisp apples took up more space than the peaches this week at the farmers market. Which of course has me thinking of apple cake with a streusel topping and big chunks of apple (soft but still holding on to some texture and shape) nestled inside of a moist crumb cake. Maybe a few nuts. Maybe not.

How about this for a market dress? I liked his hat too... but seriously the dress! So cute.

Colorful plants and fragrant flowers were represented. 

And of course there was cake.  After two weeks of no cake, there was definitely cake this week. 

What about a beautiful bundle of fresh parsley for the Labor Day potato salad? 

Nice bags of salad greens. 

My pick for family of the week. Those girls are going to have smiles as bright as the sun with those 2 for parents.

It was more peaches, cucumbers, onions, beets, juice, protein balls, salad mix, and a piece of cake that came home with me this week. 

Along with this oatmeal cream pie.

Because though I was never a fan of the "little Debbie", this oatmeal cream pie that is soft and chewy, with a buttery, slightly salty, cookie and a fluffy cloud of sweet icing in the middle... is pretty darn good. 

it sounded that good

As I passed this beautiful basket of purple eggplant at the market yesterday, I heard John Pendleton telling a woman how he likes to chop it up with other vegetables, toss it in a skillet and make an omelet.  Unless he finds himself short on eggs, in which case he scrambles one egg into it all, and it makes a wonderful breakfast like that.  I almost carried the whole basket away with me. It sounded that good. Accompanied by a slice of Mrs. Peter's sourdough toast with salted Irish butter on top. Hot coffee with cream on the side. 

I ambled over to wait in line for peaches next. In front of me was this young girl rocking a head scarf like nobody's business. I snapped her from the back because I didn't want to interrupt her while she was eating her breakfast sandwich. When I was in college, many moons ago, I would roll out of bed some mornings, throw a bandana on my head (exactly like this), and head to class. Bandana's are way cuter these days. 

About 10 minutes later, when I was grabbing my peppers for fajitas tonight, she came over to the same booth, and was quite agreeable to post for a photo from the front.

Her future may include something to do with the fashion industry. I love her confidant demeanor. 

Next up were these two - on a mission, but prepared for the chance of rain, in case. 

How about a kimchi grilled cheese for breakfast? This one smelled crazy good. 

I stopped for kale bundled carefully by this basket straightener and sign fixer. She's the perfect helper. I need her to come and live with me. 

I wondered what these three were discussing, so I had to ask... BOOKS! What better topic? 

That gorgeous heirloom tomato above was purchased at Moon on the Meadow from the farmers shown below... who are always smiling and have the BEST background for photos.  

Next stop? Cake of the week... or at least that was the plan, 

until I saw the brown butter blondies with macadamia nuts and white chocolate. 

Finally, as I headed to the car with a very full basket, I came upon these 2 headed in to the market for a guaranteed good time.  

More peaches for the week, plus green beans, kale, cucumbers, baklava, and that blondie.

Blondies herald the beginning of autumn baking season. Don't they? Who is looking forward to fall? Raise your hand!

all bases covered

This morning, at the farmers market, for the first time EVER, I stood in line for peaches! Never in my memory has there been a line for peaches. But clearly the word has gotten out about them. 

They were sacking 'em up and handing them out without missing a beat. I hate that I did not get the name of this farmer.  Next week. 

In the meantime, look at this gorgeous basket of greens. This week I am making kale salads with red pepper, zucchini, and a container of Lebanese bean salad.  I love that it can sit in the frig for days and holds up so well. 

This foursome was discussing something important, probably how they were going to keep cool later in the afternoon when the temps are getting up to 109 degrees Fahrenheit. I told them to go by and each get a bottle of Thuy's turmeric water while they were there. 

This week I decided to feature "guy on bike" since last week it was "girl on bike". Truthfully it was the t-shirt that caught my eye. He talked his friend with the beard into joining him for the shot.  

I got a tomato because how can you not when they look this gnarly good? 

I admired her selection methods. I like to act like I know what I am doing when making my choices of what to purchase. 

This musician was crooning "... oh I get by with a little help from my friends"...  as I strolled by.  I was tempted to drop my basket and harmonize with him but then remembered myself. 

The flowers above were colorful... almost as lovely as the dresses of the arrangers selling them.  Oh I do love a cute dress, especially in the summer. 

Yep, one more succulent came home. 

Here's the basket contents for the week.

All bases covered. 

that darling little donkey tale succulent

Peaches were front and center again this week at the farmers market. Lucious, juicy, and perfectly ripe. I love a basket with some ready to go when I get home and a few that are a bit more firm to take me through breakfasts for the week. I used to make peach cobbler with most of the peaches from the market, now I just peel them and eat them for breakfast. 

This week I am attempting to pickle some peppers with garlic to go along with some grilled corn for a slightly different take on the corn salad I made last week. 

Sausage biscuits for breakfast below with a baby saying they are ready to hold their own if you don't mind please. 

Carrots, zucchini, and cucumbers were picked up here - I like being able to get just the amount of each I want. I also had a great conversation with her (below) about why it makes sense to bike to the market. 

I chased the woman below down so I could get a photo of her along with her bag. This is what I mean about my people being at the market. 

One of these heirloom tomatoes was picked for sandwiches this week. I do love a good cherokee purple. 

They have a scavenger hunt for kids each week at the market and these 3 were all over it. 

Pina Colada was the cake of the week. Yes please. I also got an espresso muffin because even though it's still summer that slightly molasses, dense, not too sweet concoction was calling my name. 

Here is what came home with me. 

I was happy to get juice and protein balls this week from Thuy, then there was that darling little "donkey tale" succulent. Yes, it's August. No, I don't need another plant. But still, my succulent pot out back felt like it needed it. Who am I to argue with a potted plant?

the story I made up in my mind about them

As always happens, when I am out of town and miss a market, the first trip back means a heavy basket. This week was no exception. Especially with bags of corn, cantaloupe, and boxes of peaches for sale. 

Dryer balls, red cabbage, and a basket of lovely breads that would have been perfect for a bread plate starter (accompanied by olive oil, salted butter, and an olive tamponade) were all for sale today.  

A bowl of perfect peaches were snatched up as well as a bundle of curly kale. 

These two caught my eye with their groovy tee shirts. 

I do not know what these orange spotted spheres are, but aren't they cool looking? The farmer who was selling them was deep in a conversation about something else with another customer so I grabbed the photo and kept walking. 

The cake of the week was an elderberry lemon number. Could not pass it up. 

Here's the haul for the week. I am going to turn some of that corn into a salad with zucchini, red onion, a squeeze of lime, maybe some finely chopped pickled jalapeños. 

I was delighted that the cantaloupe I picked was exceptional. Soft but not mushy, flavorful without being overly ripe, it will be perfect with salt and pepper as part of lunch for work this coming week. I might need to make myself a red and white checked napkin to tuck into the neck of my scrubs while I am eating. 

The corn and the cantaloupe were purchased from the sisters in photo #1 at the start of this post. I saw them the minute I walked into the market this am, and circled back as I was leaving.  I hope they are back next week so I can see if they story I made up in my mind about them is close to the truth. 

It's good to be home!

his new sneakers had zippers in them

How about we start with Lorenzo today? Before I show you the tomatoes, peaches, cucumbers, sunflowers, okra, basil, sweet corn, and everything else at the market this weekend. Lorenzo first, because he had the BEST smile, pointed out to me that his new sneakers had zippers in them, AND then wanted to see the picture I took to be sure it came out good. I showed him, of course. 

Always buy your peaches from the vendor wearing their hat at a slant. If you can. 

The heirlooms right now are spectacular.  Get a load of the yellow/red swirl below.  

The grandson, from Lebanese Flower, was sporting a cool hat that he got while he was in Lebanon. He told me he just returned from spending a whole month there and meeting all of his grandfathers extended family who still live there. I told him NOT to take the hat off. Ever.

Cute dog in baby carrier alert. 

A family of girls was heading in to the market when I was leaving. My eyes spotted the smallest girl with her doll first, then I noticed the older daughters' cute earrings, followed by a smart mom with her coffee.  

We are hitting "full bounty" season at the market. So much good stuff is ripe.  As you can see, my basket was full.

My new try this week was the "Go-Green" juice from Thuy of Juice Garden. I got bold and asked her name this week because I like her and I can't keep referring to her as the juice lady.

It is GOOD (for you) and surprisingly the thing that really makes it is the celery. Who knew?

The minute I got my basket unpacked, after I sat on the porch for a few minutes, I peeled this peach and threw it in the bowl with the blueberries, put yogurt and granola on top, and all was right with the world. 

we sat on the porch and snapped beans

Today the market post starts with the unpacked basket photo, which will immediately convey that it was a good Saturday at the market. 

Let me introduce Benjamin next. He was on the job for the first time Saturday - in the all important "re-stocker" position. He listened very carefully as he was being instructed in the details of what he was to accomplish. And when he was done, smiled nicely for the photo. 

Sweet corn made it's first appearance on Saturday, and it looked mighty fine. 

I did snatch up an heirloom tomato for club sandwiches some night this week.

Strawberry lemonade cake seemed like the perfect dessert for that, as well as after the Chinese barbecue fried rice we are having tonight. I think it could be the universal dessert. 

There were lots of flower choices... and a bucket of dill that would look lovely on any dining table. 

What about some Colocasia Esculenta for a pot for your porch? These specimens were beauties.

For juice this week I selected Grapefruit Bliss (grapefruit, apple, orange, ginger) and was gifted a bottle of Turmeric Water. Sister said last week that she thought it would taste bad - wrong, wrong, wrong. It was mild and refreshing AND I love thinking it's good for me as I drink it.

There were beautiful little potatoes for any old thing you might want to do with them... potato salad, hash browns, roasted potatoes, a small baked potato opened up and topped with sour cream, chives, and how about some smoked salmon? 

The musicians were making everyone smile, especially the folks behind them who were lined up for doughnuts. 

When I got home, after putting the flowers on the table, I sat and snapped my green beans. I have one very vivid memory of being about 8 years old and visiting dad's sisters in Louisiana. We sat on the porch and snapped beans with Aunt Ola.  It was something I had never done before. Our beans always came out of a can or the freezer when I was growing up. I love that even though I can't remember names of things I use everyday, that memory is so strong. The older I get the more I appreciate those lines of connection. 

flower power

The farmers market was popping this morning. Explosions of color everywhere, thanks to the flowers.  Lots and lots of beautiful flowers.

Since it is "American Flowers Week", it seems only right to devote this post to flowers. And all the people who love them. Flower Power! That was a saying way back when... wasn't it?

I also needed honey today and since Anthony was not at the market, I was happy to find this local honey. 

Did I ever report back to you that the pure watermelon juice was very very good? I almost got it again today until I saw "summertime" and had to try that. 

How about these beautiful heads of purple cabbage? If I didn't already have plans for the kitchen today I would have to grab one and whip up a batch of red cabbage with apple and bacon and onion...

But back to the flowers. 

Did you know there was such a thing as a "tassel flower"? That beautiful little cluster of orange flowers that look ... well, like tassels?

These ladies told me about them, while they were wrapping up my sunflowers.

Here is what came home with me today.  

Except you couldn't see the bourbon brown butter cake so here it is below, for those of you who love the Chonky Bakers as much as I do, and want to see what they make each week. 

It was good to be back at the market today after missing last Saturday. It always throws me off kilter a bit when I miss my weekly fix of mingling with my people. 

they were perfect cut up on top of the kale

Oh the Delphiniums were a perfect start to the farmers market this morning. Tall, stately, blue/violet, simply lovely. 

The kohlrabi while not nearly as beautiful is certainly interesting. This is something I have never purchased, nor eaten to my knowledge. If you have a favorite recipe, do share.

The small buds of the Queen Anne's lace, in their spiral configuration, were also eye catching. 

A string of pearls to add to the succulent pot out back is something that was actually on my list of things to look for.  Check.  

The mini heads of romaine were adorable and perfect for my needs this week. The woman who helped me said she was cutting the heads in half, grilling them for a few minutes and drizzling a caesar dressing on top. How delicious does that sound?

Just when I thought things couldn't get better looking, there were these zucchini blossoms. 

Sunflowers are showing up at the flower vendors. I always marvel at all the different varieties. 

By this time, I was rounding third about to head to the Chonky's for a piece of cake when I realized I had no people pictures yet... and right there before my eyes loomed the most unexpected, unsuspecting group of fellows just waiting for me.  Oh I love it when I happen on something like this. Not only did they say YES to my request for the photo, they had the best smiles and were very nice. 

Once again, with my faith affirmed in the people who come to the market, I went about my business. Two bunches of carrots for roasting.

A piece of honey apricot cake because I have never tasted it before and apricots + honey has to equal something tasty.

New to me this week, is the turmeric water with ginger and lemon as well as peanut butter/nutella protein balls. there was also a loaf of bread topped with oregano to go with the hummus from the Lebanese flower. Along with the roasted carrots, red beans and rice, and a kale salad that's what's on the menu for supper tonight. 

P.S. I roasted the carrots with just a little olive oil, balsamic, and an herb/salt/wine mix my nephew Sean makes and gifts me every year. They were perfect cut up on top of the kale. OK, the were also good right out of the oven dipped in the hummus, with a sip of cool white wine on the side. 

I got industrious

The bouquets of flowers at the farmers market yesterday were plentiful. 

Something for everyone. 

And for planting in the garden... how about this? The blue/lavender combination was stunning. 

Gray skies and a forecast of showers for the morning didn't keep anyone away. She was ready with hat AND umbrella.

This future farmer was all business, lining up the bunches of carrots, organizing the broccoli and beans in their baskets. 

Tomatoes are showing up at the market, time to get out the Duke's mayo, the smoky bacon, crisp lettuce, and some fresh sliced bread.

This week I stopped by Roxy's bakery, where I normally get everything bagels, to try a new item - pretzels!

They were perfect Saturday afternoon with a mug of beer and some whole grain mustard for dipping. 

Hummingbird cake! A concoction of banana and pineapple with that wonderful turquoise fondant icing and a nice piece of candied pineapple on top. Moist and delicious. 

These two women with their flowers, jackets, and wonderful smiles caught my attention and NEEDED to be photographed. 

As soon as I got my basket unpacked, I attended to the rainbow chard. Stems removed, a nice soak, onions, cherries, olive oil out of the cabinets. 

30 minutes later, 3 small containers of bitter greens with sweet onions and sour cherries.

Then I got industrious and cleaned all my lettuce at once. 

This is the bouquet of flowers for the table this week. It made me think of the sweet bundles of flowers that were at the roadside, self-serve, flower stand on Lummi island. I snatched it up when I saw it. 

The end.

packed with wonderful fruit flavors

One of my very favorite things at the farmers market is when the Pendleton's bring buckets of peonies and you can pick your own stems.

So, when I walked up and saw this, I stopped in my tracks, deviated from the strawberries being the first stop, and picked my 10 stems. 

I walked them back to the car so I would not be impeded in any way as I carried on with my business. 

You don't often see a bike at the market, but how handy would that be for storing all your purchases.

Especially if you needed a couple of heads of bok choy for your stir fried dinner tonight - maybe with a garlic/ginger/hoisin sauce? Throw in some broccoli, snow peas, tofu, and peanuts? I am making this up as I go along. 

I thought for sure these 2 were talking about soil enhancement methods using compost, but turns out it was a discussion about music. 

Next stop was for greens, and aren't these bundles of chard beautiful? 

When trying to figure out what kind of juice to get this week, I got the thumbs up from these experts on the watermelon. So I went with it. 

Luckily there were enough slices of Pride Cake left so I did not have to arm wrestle the little girl below for the last piece. 

Of course I would have let her go first if there had been just one. At least I think I would have. 

It might look like pure fluff, but it is packed with wonderful fruit flavors. While I am at it, I got a jalapeño cornbread muffin from the Chonky bakers a week or so ago that was killer. Really moist and buttery but with prominent jalapeño flavor that was not too hot. I got another one Saturday. It's important to have things like this in your freezer that can be brought out at a moments notice when you need something special with your dinner. 

No bunches of calendula came home with me, but aren't they pretty? Maybe next week, a bunch to put by my bed so the health benefits can soak into me by osmosis while I sleep. 

a good roasted beet on a salad

Let's start the Farmers Market report with these stunning poppies shall we? 

Then move on to the equally amazing fennel and garlic scapes. 

These are the mother/baby duos that were hanging out on a Saturday morning.  Just doing their thing at the market. 

The dill and cilantro were looking fabulous at Mellowfields farms. The cucumbers may not be far behind? I love it when they bundle the dill and cucumbers together for my pickle making. 

I snapped a picture of the "Slow Rise" doughnut selection for you. In the event that you come to Lawrence on a Saturday morning and get in line with all your friends... 

I went for the Orange Creamsicle cake because it was one of my top favorites from last year. I refer to it as the "dreamsicle" cake. 

While we are on an orange theme, get a load of these lilies. 

So beautiful, but I had to go with the peonies again. HAD to. 

Best "look" at the market this week goes to her. From head to toe - and including earrings. 

I got all the way back to my car before realizing I had forgotten to get bread. I almost went to Wheatfields and just grabbed a loaf, but I knew I would regret it because Mrs. Peters sourdough is what I wanted. I went back for it. 

Here is what I came home with this week. I might have gone overboard. Who can blame me?  

Strawberry limeade juice and a bunch of chioggia beets are my new items to try this week. A good roasted beet on a salad can't be beat. Did I just type that? 

look at it, can you blame me?

It was 48 degrees this morning when the bell rang to open the Lawrence Farmers Market at 07:30am.  She was ready for us in her orange beret, flannel shirt, neck warmer. The Mona Lisa smile and cool glasses took it over the top. 

Once the best vendor of the day photo was snapped, it was off to the the strawberries in my very boring black turtleneck, jacket, and baby blue Hoka's.  To my great delight, Moon on the Meadow also had snap peas. First of the season for me. Bonus!

The heads of butter lettuce were beautiful. In my mind it would be carefully rinsed and laid out on a pale lavender platter, topped with  a wee bit of smoked salmon, a sliced hard boiled egg, a few steamed then chilled fingerling potatoes, a small bit of diced red onion, and a silver bowl of a creamy Dijon dressing on the side. Next to the fresh flowers in the middle of the table was a basket of baguette and a thick slab of butter. 

Breakfast burritos were on the menu for the family eating in the sunshine. They were not dreaming of salads in French bistros. 

Next up, I headed over to restock my juice and protein balls.

Time will tell, but I swear I am getting something other than "sunshine" before the end of the season. But it's my favorite. Still, that bottle of orange looks intriguing.

She was most cooperative when I asked to take her picture as she selected a bundle of beautiful carrots. The immediate "sure" accompanied by a smile is my favorite response to this question. 

Around the corner, the Firefly Farm guys were making up bouquets right on the spot. I was all in. 

When I saw this guy I headed off in pursuit. When you look this put together at 7:30 am you have to expect to be asked to have your picture taken. He was v.v.v. friendly and complimented me on my baby blue Hoka's.  

Next up was the Chonky stop. This week they had strawberries and cream "crumb cake" and it seemed important to get a piece. I warmed it in the oven for a few minutes then served it alongside strawberries and blueberries with a dollop of greek yogurt and a drizzle of honey. Perfect. The crumb on the crumb cake was moist, but not heavy, sweet but not cloying, a perfect breakfast cake. I saved half for tomorrow. 

Did I mention the jalapeño cornbread muffin? Had to get one of those too. 

I mean look at it! Can you blame me?

mixing it up with my people this morning

Local strawberries were waiting for me this morning at the farmers market. So were lots of other things.

As I walked over to get my asparagus, I ran smack into the middle of of a lesson on how to grab asparagus out of the container, to ensure the remaining stalks in the basket stay upright. You never know when I might need to know this. 

Farm fresh eggs were plentiful. All the colors from white to brown and including but not limited to bone, beige, ecru, cream, tan, and pearl. 

Cute family #1 complete with soft baby owl that she was holding very tightly to her chest.  She could sense (even at her young age) that I coveted it. 

Last year I enjoyed the fresh juices from Liquid Garden very much so today was the day to branch out and try her protein balls as well.  There will be a follow up report.  

The smoky aroma from the Flory's grill was intoxicating. Before the season is over I must try one of the sausages on a fresh baked biscuit. Which one of you is going to meet me there so we can sit on the curb and eat them together?

My salads for the week will be planned around spinach and a bag of mean greens. When you have good greens, every salad is a delight. 

The Peters were all smiles this morning. 

So was I when I saw the Chonky boys had brought their coconut-lime cake to the market this week.

Right next to them were these bunches of peonies. 

Her dress was too cute to pass up.  She told me she got it at Target, then she told me how comfortable it was. I loved that in her mind she even considered that I might dash over there and try one on.  

Here is what came home in my basket. 

What you can't see in the picture is my sense of well-being brought about by mixing it up with my people this morning.

a free spirit in a frilly skirt

More often than not, the the farmers market re-cap starts with a flower photo.  Not today. These boys have to lead because they are my favorite shot of the day. They were walking through the market talking, looking, hanging out. Doing boy things. I asked them if I could take their picture and immediately the smiled, turned towards me, and most unexpectedly put their arms around each others shoulders.  Good stuff. 

These fragrant stock and colorful allium bouquets met all expectations for the weekly bouquet. AND they also had asparagus for sale.

Really, I could stop there but then I walked on and saw...

... locally grown strawberries. Small, perfect morsels, red through and through. As I turned around after paying for my basket there was this. A free spirit in a frilly skirt with green shoes, getting a bouquet. 

At Chonky Sweets and Eats there was a magnificent carrot cake. But I have a plan to make chocolate frosted brownies today so I had to walk on.  

OK, full disclosure, Baking Traditions had a strawberry pop tart that I simply could NOT pass by. I have a "one sweet treat in the basket" rule at the market. 

You can fully appreciate my choice when you see what it looked like out of the box at home. 



I need a new black eyed Susan vine.

Her "lift and fully rotate" appraisal method for selecting the best of the flower baskets has clearly been refined through the years. 

I don't know about this family's selection techniques but I do approve of their delphinium and rhubarb purchases.

I got mixed lettuces and kale but admired the bok choy and Napa cabbage as well. The tomato starters looked wonderful as did the bucket of edible flowers. 

There was a serious discussion going on here, I think it had something to do with who was bringing what to whose house for dinner tonight. 

How about some succulents in wine glasses? It's a new trend. 

Right before I got in the car with my purchases, I spotted this couple. Some people just have a natural flair for fashion. In my next life I am getting that super power... and her hair!

My basket for the week below. 

I love it when I can get asparagus so fresh that you just have to cook them for ONE minute, rinse them in cool water, and have them in the frig to put on salads, eat with your chili walnut dip from the Lebanese Flower, or just on their own. 

 

 

so I can test the theory

These are the tulips that came home with me from the farmers market this week.  They are shorter and less "showy" than the bouquets from the last two weeks. 

Less vibrant but not less beautiful. 

They remind me of the colors of butter mints at a wedding. Those mints that are so good with a few salty nuts, wedding cake, and a glass of champagne. 

Nancy told me this week that if you put a "pre-1985" penny in the bottom of the vase, and change the water every single day, they last for "weeks". I just looked this up by the way, and in 1982 the penny stopped being made of 95% copper. So really it would be a "pre-1982" penny.  

AND here's another fun fact - copper is a fungicide and bacteria and fungi are what shorten the life span of flowers. Gosh darn it that Nancy knows her stuff!

Mine usually last a full 5 days then start to drop leaves, which is ok, because then it's time for the next farmers market. But it can't hurt to have Chris go through his coins searching for a pre-1982 penny so I can test the theory. Right?

the right blend of chocolate, super moist, with chewy bits of cherry

Saturday morning was a chilly one at the farmers market. But as one of the vendors told me "you just have to check the temperature and then dress like you would if it's 10 degrees colder than that... and you will be fine". I would always rather be a bit warm than too cold when out at the market. 

The lilacs are front and center in the current parade of what's blooming. The arrangement above is a wonderful display of all the different kinds of lilacs you see around here.

Asparagus made a first appearance.

I was happy to see Anthony so I could replenish my honey supply. 

The Black Forest cake was safe under the dome, a few frost crystals adding to the effect. Here is the description of the cake "luscious dark chocolate cake filled with sweet dark cherries and covered in a delightful kirsch glaze". That alone would have sold me, but I also have a very long memory for things I really like, and yes, I remember how good it was last year. 

If I was planting a lettuce bed, I would have gotten some of all of these.  As it is, I just bought a bag of mixed lettuce and a few small heads of romaine from the Pendletons. He was dressed very appropriately for a morning of standing outside.

And how about these teeny baby strawberry plants? Who doesn't dream of their own bed of strawberries, growing conveniently in your garden, and in the morning you wander outside and select the 10 best looking ones, still warm from the sun, to have with your breakfast?

The tulips are still looking amazing.  So many to choose from. 

It's still about a week too early to put these plants out, so none came home with me, but it's fun to imagine what you are going to get. 

Here is my haul for the week.  I went for the delicate, buttery pink tulips. 

The cake deserves its own picture.  Just the right blend of chocolate, super moist, with chewy bits of cherry, and that Kirsch icing ... don't get me started. 

All in all another great week at the market. Such a treat to get local, freshly picked, greens - it makes such a difference in the nightly salads. 

with a garden between them

Grab a cup of coffee before you start looking today.  I might have gone overboard on the photos from Saturday's farmers market.  I couldn't help myself. There was much to see.  Starting with these fabulous tulips.  

I LOVED that these two friends were attracted to the tulips.  In my mind I can see them going to the market together as the years go by, maybe they will live in tiny houses next door to each other, with a garden between them, and a little free library out front. Rockers on their front porches, they will teach all the neighborhood kids how to read, knit, and grow flowers. 

Everything you need for an amazing salad could be had at the market.

If salad isn't your thing you could get in the loooong line for a doughnut. Which I have yet to try... 

Best smiles at the market go to these two. 

Best pig-tail below. 

In addition to the tulips, there were lilac bouquets available. 

Best "prepared for the weather" look goes to the lilac bouquet maker. Did I mention that it was supposed to rain on Saturday morning but it held off for the market?  

Cake of the week!

I passed up the cake for cranberry orange scones and morning glory muffins. 

 These amazing radishes belong up top by the rest of the salad ingredients, in your mind pretend that's where they are. 

Here is my basket for the week. Yes, that is a little container of baklava below, which took the place of the cake for after dinner dessert. 

Closing with one last shot of the tulips. Just because. 

from Central Asia to Turkey to the Netherlands

This first farmers market bouquet is putting on a performance that will be hard to match by all future market bouquets this year. Seriously, every single time I walk by them I want to take more pictures, convinced that I have not captured them at just THIS exact angle yet. 

Gosh it makes me happy to have these flowers on the table. Because they are so pretty, because they signal spring, because they mean it's farmers market season... and on and on and on. 

Did you know Tulips originally were wild flowers in Central Asia? I always associate them with the Netherlands.

I won't go further down the rabbit hole of the journey from Asia to Turkey to the Netherlands, but I am grateful to the biologist who got the party started. AND to our local growers who make it possible for me to have this bouquet on the table this week. 

out among my people

Saturday dawned bright and sunny, if a bit chilly, for the grand opening of the Lawrence Saturday morning farmers market today. I was ready. Camera battery charged, extra cash in the money bag, basket by the door. I always have a general idea of what I am looking for but am always happy to stray if my eye catches the unexpected. Here is what I found today. 

Most of my favorite vendor/farmer/grower/makers. It always feels like a reunion of sorts - without any obligations. Which is the best.

The Peters family was there with a nice selection of sourdough.

The Queen of Tarts was there too. Please get a look at that giant quiche? That will be explored further in coming weeks. 

This family of girls had to be included - for their obvious great enthusiasm for the market. 

These women from the Homestead Ranch make great jam and their sense of humor was spot on when I asked about taking their picture today. 

I knew there would be a slice of Pina colada cake in my basket along with an orange cranberry scone from the Chonky boys. I love having my Easter dinner dessert made for me. Not to mention this mornings breakfast. 

My flower selection was from the Cook's Market this week. Their tulips can NOT be beat, especially the parrot tulips... be still my heart. 

Bags of spinach and lettuce were found here. 

This (I think) mother/daughter duo were having a marvelous time. Mom gets the prize for prettiest bag at the market today. 

Here is today's haul for your inspection. Colorful, fresh, tasty, wonderful . 

It was a perfect start to the season. I am delighted to be back into my Saturday morning routine, out among my people, at the market.

the air was crisp the mood was festive

Here are my treasures from the Holiday Farmers Market that was today in Lawrence. 

Any day that I can get a nice big bunch of locally grown lettuce mix I'm happy.  Add the fruitcake, the greenery, hand painted eggs, and a new zip pouch for my purse and I consider it a red letter day. Whatever that means. I think it's an exceptionally good day. 

Let me start with this woman who paints chickens, guineas, ducks, etc on eggs as ornaments. I saw them and fell in love, and so now the 3 below live on my tree. 

If you were looking for a wreath, this was the place to get one.  All sorts of them could be had. 

I love that this guy picked out one that was almost as big as he was. 

There was an abundance of cute kids, in cute hats, some making crafts, some with their parents.

My favorite Lebanese chef gets the award for "best wearing of a stocking cap". Achieving this level of nonchalance is an art, and not everyone can carry it off like he does. 

These two were making merry with their Christmas light necklaces.

I got a nice bundle of greenery and filled big and little vases with it and spread them all around the house.

Last year, my tastebuds finally awakened to the deliciousness that is fruitcake. One of Drake's famous fruitcakes - a local legend - came home with me. Wonderful toasted with coffee in the morning, or as is with Irish cream after dinner. 

There were "gourdaments", garlands, fresh produce, and succulents in cute pots.

There were candies, cakes, breads, cookies, and jars filled with jams and jellies and pickled things. 

It was the perfect morning for the holiday market, the air was crisp, the mood was festive. A good time was had by all. 

the wonderful flavors of a locally grown lettuce mix

It was a cold one this past Saturday at the market. When its in the 20's and cloudy, it's hard to climb out of a warm bed and grab the basket and head out to see who is there and what they have.

With all that said, I am extremely glad I went - especially for that bag of lettuce you see above! The days of a fresh bag of lettuce are numbered and once you get accustomed to the wonderful flavors of a locally grown lettuce mix, it's hard to go back to the grocery store stuff.

I snapped the lettuce guy's photo while he chatted with the next customer about the benefits of healthy eating.

In the event that the Lebanese flower folks are not out next week, I loaded up on some spinach pie to pop in the freezer... and of course some baklava. 

Anthony had to take off his gloves to count the money for my honey purchase. 

She had her produce carefully covered but was happy to remove for inspection. I got my fine butternut squash here. 

The coffee guys were in a fine frame of mind - and why not. They were selling what we all wanted to be holding in our cold hands.

The Chonky Sweets and Eats guys were there. Extra cranberry orange scones were purchased to be carefully rationed over the winter.   

Yes, Black Forest cake too.  

Next Saturday, 11/19 is the last official day of the market season, but it's supposed to be even colder, hence my extra purchases for the freezer this week.  The Holiday market is on December 10th this year from 9-4pm at the Douglas County Fairgrounds. I love supporting our local farmers but really my choice about buying local is more about the quality of the goods they are selling. 

to protect the citizens of Lawrence should the need arise...

The Saturday before Halloween, there was trick-or-treating at the market. Cinderella, minus the glass slippers, plus the sensible pink boots and sturdy cat bag for collecting treats, may have been my favorite, but truth be told, it was hard to choose.

The brother/sister duo with their "alien monster masks" were also spectacular. 

Harry Potter, witches, skeletons, butterflies, and space warriors were all represented in the costume arena.

Some of the vendors were also costumed making the whole thing more festive. There MUST be at least one Dorothy outfit at a Halloween event in Kansas.  High marks to her for the WHOLE outfit.  I mean seriously - the shoes!

Just so you know, I did more than just look at costumes. There was this pumpcculent that jumped into my basket and 4 apple cider muffins.  They were a puff of wonderful apple flavor encapsulated in cinnamon sugar. A most excellent accompaniment to a nice cup of coffee after my basket was unloaded.  AND warty pumpkins! I am a fan of the gnarly, warty, bumpy, pumpkin. 

As I was about to leave the market, Batman strolled up the alley, on guard to protect the citizens of Lawrence should the need arise.

Do not be fooled by his pint sized appearance. 

I talked with Mrs. Peters about her cleverly packaged sugar cookies and frostings... all ready for an afternoon of fun playing around with most of the work done for you.  For the life of me I can't explain why I didn't buy a box for Chris and I to decorate. If she has them next week, I'm getting some.  For sure!

P.S. It acceptable to post about halloween for as long as you want to when typepad has been down for a week. It's also ok to keep your Halloween decorations up until your guests arrive for Thanksgiving.  

something called a butterkin squash

I felt like a kid in a candy store at the farmers market this weekend. Thoroughly immeshed in the spirit of the season, I made my way through the gourds and the last of the flowers.







At about this point I ran into my future self examining the sweet potatoes. I didn't talk to myself because I didn't want to risk potentially altering the trajectory of my future. The thought that I could still be coming to the farmers market in 20 years delights me. 

The nice couple at this booth put my pumpkins back so I could drive over and load them after I was done shopping. Very helpful.

The father daughter duo sharing one Halloween costume caught my eye. She was quick to point out that the hat was actually hers by the way. He was just momentarily borrowing it. 

Juniper Hill farms had some giant white pumpkins and something called a "butterkin" squash.

I am thinking it will taste very much like the butternut squash, but it's important to test these things for oneself. Isn't it? I am also curious about which one will be easier to prep before roasting. 

The back of my car was pretty packed by the time I got home Saturday. 

Sunflowers and dahlias makes up my last market bouquet for the season. 

They are a splendid bunch. Especially on the Halloween inspired table quilt that my sister in law Ann made for me. I am a sucker for Halloween and fall decor. Which leads me to the last photo from the market.

I mean there were candy pumpkins on top of the pumpkin spice cake. Of course I had to get some. 

PS thanks for the FIX typepad.

the essence of fall in a cake

The days of fresh flowers at  the farmers market are dwindling... this coming week we have morning lows of 26 and 29 in the forecast. Which makes these fall bouquets even more beautiful. Though truthfully, everything seemed pretty fabulous at the market today.  

The very first thing I did was snatch up 3 pots of mums from the Pendletons and take them back to the car, before I carried on with my appointed rounds. If I can, I always get geraniums and mums from the Pendletons - they are healthy, beautiful, and long-lasting.  

These wreaths made up of dried pods, flowers, and grasses were also splendid. I may need one to leave on the porch all winter. 

It was flannel shirt and jacket weather this morning for me, but I dig the pink shirt, sweater, boot, combo she was sporting. 

This dog got in line with everyone else for donuts today. One of these days I am simply going to have to break down and get one. All those people can't be wrong. Right?  Anyway, that dog was clearly ready to defend his position should anyone try to cut in front of he or his owner. 

This fresh ginger sure is pretty. Makes me want to get out the wok and get some stir fry going. By "me" I actually mean Chris of course. But he is smoking a brisket and making burnt ends tonight. Which I am not going to turn my nose up at. No siree. 

My contribution to the meal will be washing dishes and this caramel apple cake for dessert. 

This fellow was our entertainment today. He was putting it out there. Doing his thing. 

These are the mums that came home with me. 

I also loaded up on gourds, a nice big butternut squash, and a bag of lettuce mix. 

You wanted to see what my piece of cake looks like on the inside didn't you? 

Loaded with apples, moist, with a buttery almost smoky frosting. The essence of fall. In a cake. 

miss sparkly sequin sleeves

In October, there is a rule about pumpkin photos predominating in all blog posts.  You have been so advised.

This past weekend there were also mums and nice sprays of decorative corn on display at the farmers market. 

It's time for autumn squash recipes, and in the event you have not heard about pump-culents I am here to inform.  See photo below. 

This big fella was in line for an iced latte, his cute handlers were going for something a bit warmer. 





I snagged a bag of "mean greens" that are getting dressed simply with a mustardy vinaigrette to go along side the crock-pot roast beef, potatoes and carrots that are on the menu for tonight.  Spelt garlic biscuits on the side. Did I tell you that mix turned out well? Oh it did indeed.  

If you prefer flowers in your pumpkin instead of succulents, never fear. There were plenty to choose from.

More gourds if needed for your front porch or table decorations. 

Yes please to these lovely, simple, arrangements of dahlias. 

Big sister was pointing out to all in attendance that her brother was going rogue, she seemed to enjoy him running so she could get a ride. Right on sister!

Little miss sparkly sequin sleeves was all snuggled up with mom, her treat safely in the bag, ready to eat when they sat down. 

Here's my haul this week. You already know what I am doing with the greens, sourdough toast is on the breakfast menu all week, butternut squash is getting roasted for work lunches alongside falafel. 



It's my favorite time of year at the market.  Did I already say that last week?  I am too lazy to go back and look. October you are simply the most glorious month of all. Marti Huff and I are in agreement on this, so it must be so. 

tiny amazing colorful tomatoes

This morning at the farmer's market there were sweatshirts being worn, bittersweet bundles for sale, fall wreaths at the Pendleton's booth. Forgive me while I get giddy over the arrival of fall.

There was arugula, dahlias, and apples.  

My new "try" of the week were a few bags of dehydrated apple chips. While I generally prefer a nice juicy apple to munch on, these dehydrated chips are a wonderful addition to lunch. The very nice lady I bought them from told me they freeze well. 

Pumpkins and gourds were sprinkled here and there, even with this week's cake "Pumpkin Spice Latte" from Chonky Sweets and Eats. 

These tiny amazingly colorful tomatoes... the perfect topping for a piece of toast with some soft ricotta or burrata and a drizzle of balsamic. 

My happy couple prize for the day went to these two because, well just because. 

I came home with a lot of stuff this week. That always happens when I have missed a week. Arugula, kale, falafel, baklava, cucumbers, red onions, apple chips, an espresso muffin, and a piece of cake. Plus more JUICE from Liquid Garden.

This week I am trying watermelon, pineapple/orange, and another bottle of the pineapple/cucumber/mint/green apple that I got last time and enjoyed so much. 

That's it for this week from the very best farmer's market this side of the Mississippi, where everyone is smiling, and life is good in this exact moment. 

making sure the doughnut trays were full and lined up properly

After a few weekends away, it was good to be back at my farmers market this morning. Fall is approaching, the air was cooler today, there were marigolds, gourds, and apples for sale. As I write this it is raining gently. I am positively giddy at the thought of fall, but back to the market before I get seriously off track.

I had as much difficulty as the woman in photo #1 trying to decide which flowers to buy today. Sunflowers? Tuberoses? Marigolds?

New purchases this week include juice (I got the pineapple/cucumber/green apple/mint) from Liquid Garden Juice and some spelt flour from Stone and Sparrow farm and mill. I started with a biscuit mix from them so I can see how it bakes up and then will experiment with substituting for all purpose flour.

Black Forest Cake. Yes of course. 

This young worker was making sure the doughnut trays were full and lined up properly this morning. It is very common at the market to see all the family members participating in the work of running the booth. 

I spotted butternut squash, delicata squash, and cantelope this morning. 

A basket of peaches was snagged as well as a bag of tiny potatoes to "boil, smash, and roast" in the oven. 

I will let you know how the drop biscuits with spelt flour turn out. My afternoon cocktail consisted of the juice I described earlier with a shot of limoncello - completely delicious.

As I get ready to launch this post, the tuberoses have begun to pump out their fragrance, Chris is making dinner, and we are going to watch the "new" Downton Abbey movie tonight. Our favorite kind of Saturday night. Hope your day is unfolding as nicely. 

why not do three instead of just one

The most important thing you need to know about the market on Saturday is I discovered broccoli sprouts. Yes, you heard me.

Before you turn your nose up, please see how I used them below. Pumpernickel toast, avocado with lime juice, sprouts, fried egg, salt & pepper, V-8 on the side. I read something recently about how healthy they are for you but I bought them for the great texture and flavor they add to avocado toast. 

My second favorite thing were these lovely sunflowers, sold to me by the lady wearing the super cool scarf on her head. Gosh I do so love a cleverly tied scarf - anywhere on the body. 





The tuberose's were also fabulous.



In the careful shopper category, this fellow evaluating the tomatoes was just the best. I love his careful technique of selecting each one and then carefully placing it on the scale.

The most beautiful thing in a jar was this honey. All lined up, row after row of thick golden amber. 



Carrots are my new thing. This week I got 3 bunches. I mean if I am going to roast them why not do 3 instead of just one? 

Peaches? Yes, thank you very much.



Can't you just see a big bowl of potato salad made from all these colors of little potatoes? Skins left on of course. Plenty of pickles, onions, eggs, maybe a jalapeño or two? 



She was in front of me in line for a piece of banana-maple cake. When I whispered to her (so no one would hear, because you don't really say things like that to a kid), that if there was only one piece left, it was mine, she said "we'll see about that lady". 



Happily there was an entire cake left when we placed our orders.



This is banana CAKE, not bread. Extra moist, super charged banana flavor, plus frosting. The end. 

stuff those zucchini blossoms and flash fry them

This fella was a bit hesitant (initially) to stand by the sign that demonstrates how the family mill operates. He warmed up pretty quickly though, and soon we were on a first-name basis.  Next week I will ask him to tell me about his role in the operation. I'm sure it's substantial. 

Other new things at the market this week included watermelon and canteloupe.

I was delighted the peaches were still there.  

Mr. Peters told me that one of the best ways to eat them is to cut them in half, scoop out the pit, put them on the grill for a few minutes, and top with vanilla ice cream. He also said they would likely have them through August. Hurrah.

I spotted this pony-tail as I walked in to the market this morning. Her mom said she would only let Dad do her hair this morning. I think he did a fine job. I didn't think she could be any cuter, then she turned around.  

Elderberry-lemon cake was featured this week. At this point I pretty much HAVE to get a piece every week. 

I also got some strawberry lemonade to have on the porch, under the fan, while I listen to the birds. Citrus vodka, lots of ice, splash of Chambord to be added... maybe.

Colorful peppers, luscious tomatoes, the cutest zucchini you ever did see, and flowers were also on display at the market. I want someone to stuff those zucchini blossoms and flash fry them for me, I will take the zucchini itself on the side, maybe spiralized with a drizzle of olive oil, black pepper, and a generous sprinkle of aged grated pecorino Romano. 

There was also Ms. Kansas Agritourism. Promoting all things agricultural in the state of Kansas. She wears the crown well. 

Lunches this week will include spinach pie from my friends at Lebanese Flower. He told me this batch might be "a little bit hot", which sounded great to me.  

I got another batch of sunflowers since last weeks were so nice, a new bottle of honey from Anthony, and that's a wrap on the Saturday market. Until next week. 

when they are sold by smiling vendors with sunflower masks and cool glasses

This accordion player added extra goodness to the farmers market in Lawrence this weekend.

He was positioned right next to the brown butter peach cake ... 

...which of course I had to try. 

There was also a basket of peaches from Mrs. Peters. As long as peaches are in season, a basket comes home every Saturday. I remain hooked on them for breakfast. The whole concept of eating seasonally has come late to me. But boy is there something to be said for it. A juicy peach picked (for me) the day before it comes to market is unbeatable. 

 Sunflowers are in season too. In many different forms.

I haven't met one that I don't like. Especially when they are sold by smiling vendors with sunflower masks and cool glasses.



The morning light on this basket of basil was simple perfection, as were the bundled carrots and the beautiful purple eggplants. 

My favorite sign this week is below.

Lately I have taken note of several booths with lemonade. I am always in a coffee frame of mind early in the morning at the market, but as I write this, I am thinking I need to take a mason jar to put some in next week. How delicious would that be on the porch, in the shade, in the afternoon after waking up from a nice weekend nap? With lots of ice and maybe some kind of fresh herb thrown in for good measure. 





As I write this, the cucumbers and onions have been pickled and are in jars in the refrigerator. The green beans were boiled for just a few minutes and a bit of butter, salt, and a squeeze of lemon went on top.  The cake has been sampled and I am giving it 2 thumbs up. 

These carrots will be roasted tomorrow. Really simply with salt, pepper, and olive oil. I did a bundle of these like that in Lincoln last weekend and they were incredible. 

The sunflowers are perfect next to the zinnias don't you think? My friend Jamie gave me that vase with the long skinny neck a few years ago - absolutely perfect for long stemmed flowers. I love that she knew I needed it.  

served al fresco on a patio with twinkling lights

Peaches were the hot item at the farmers market Saturday here in Lawrence. 

I picked the perfect little basket and brought them straight home and proceeded to eat them for breakfast. Sliced up, in a bowl, with greek yogurt, a drizzle of honey, a few toasted walnuts. Equally as delicious as in a pie or cobbler, so easy. 

A few heirlooms were also selected for this week's BLT's or Turkey Clubs or just by themselves between some sliced bread with Duke's mayo and salt. 

Below are this week's shining examples of what the best dressed vendors and shoppers were wearing at the market. 

Can't you just see these carrots roasted in the oven, lightly sprinkled with a bit of feta and some chopped pistachios. Bread and butter on the side and a nice cool glass of sauvignon blanc. Served al fresco on a patio with twinkling lights... tuscan pines off in the distance down in the valley.

The zinnias were plentiful - in ALL the colors. These were my favorites on display. While we are at it, how about Lin, Lin, and Moe's orderly display? 

Since I wasn't making pie with my peaches, I had to bring home some strawberry - lemonade cake.  The sign said it was "zingy and refreshing" and I am in total agreement with that assessment. 

Happy Sunday night friends, or Monday morning... depending on where you are in the world as you are reading. 

you can't begin the basket carrying training too early

Vegetables, flowers, and fruit were all abundant at the market this weekend. 

People were plentiful as well, even though it was hot and sticky. Sticky and hot can be challenging. My market-goer photos this week include the following:
1. I don't know for sure who came up with this slogan or what their position is on things. I am just taking it at face value and wanted to break into "come on people now, smile on your brother everybody get together try to love one another right now..." when I saw it. The wearer of the shirt smiled when I asked to take his picture.



2. Then there was this super cute dog, with giant puppy paws right across the aisle, and this fellow smiled too when I asked about the picture. 

3. Then came the icing on the cake. The hat wearing father/daughter duo... also a smile when the photo request was made. Three smiling assents on a hot and sticky Saturday, made the whole morning a little cooler. 



Fruit selection included peaches, blackberries, and blackberries on a cake!







Of course there were flowers. 





I have been waiting for cucumbers to make an appearance so I could pull out Sharron's recipe for pickled cucumbers and onions. Is this not just the best marketing?
Everything you might want for pickles in a cute little carton.

I came home with my share.



Last but not least, there was this future market-goer getting a head start on the ABC's of attending a market. 



You can't begin the basket carrying training too early. 

I heard a rumor there were going to be blueberries

The following 2 photos illustrate the ways you can "do" rain at the farmers market. I am not endorsing one method over the other. But I wore a a hat, a rain coat, tennis shoes, shorts and I carried an umbrella. Apparently, I am a hybrid of sorts. The shot I did not get, was of the woman walking around in a t-shirt, cropped pants, a colorful head scarf, face getting wet, smiling. I want to be her. 

I had to go to the market, rain or no rain, because I heard a rumor there were going to be blueberries. Which I did locate, after I had all but given up. 

This is not a great photo, but when juggling the basket, umbrella, and camera - compromises had to be made. I got the shot and got out of the way, so those in line behind me could score their little green basket too.  

There was also a piece of Bourbon Butter Pecan cake in my basket. In a bag. It also had to be carried gingerly alongside the rest of the purchases, being mindful not to smash it before I could get it home and take a picture of my slice to send to brother. 

Karen and John Pendleton had a "frame" set up for those who wanted their picture taken with flowers for American Flowers week. They were nice enough to stop their business transactions for a second and pose for me.

To balance out the cake I got a bag of tween rainbow chard this week. I generally cook my chard, but am going to try and make a salad out of it this week. I will let you know how it turns out. A reliable source told me it can be done. 

I almost came home with a 4th of July bouquet, until I plopped my basket down by the big buckets of peonies, and caught that irresistible fragrance.

These nine peonies are the ones I selected. A perfect number for this vase. I never went to flower arranging school so I like to make up things about what makes a good looking bouquet as I go.

Fingers crossed that I can stay awake until 9:45 pm tonight, when, if we are lucky, from the second floor guest bedroom windows, we may get a glimpse of the local firework extravaganza, if the trees across the way are not too tall. I have Angie's rocking chair and foot stool set up in front of the window for optimal viewing comfort. Since I have made all these plans (thus tempting fate), I will either fall asleep by 9 or they will not be viewable from the set up location. 

start holding your doughnuts using her method

This weekend I had the best time taking Johnny and Annette to "my" farmers market. It's hard to know what others will think of something so dear to me, so familiar, so part of my life. It's like anything else you share with someone, hard to know if your taste's will coincide. But I think they liked it. 

They are in the area to visit family in Kansas and Oklahoma. It has been a true delight to have them here. Meanwhile, at the market, things are getting colorful!







The doughnuts remain ever popular among all the visitors. This connoisseur today told me they were "good" AND when asked what her's tasted like said "doughnut".

She did not say "duh" afterwards. But I could hear it in her voice. I don't know what you are doing today, but whatever it is I hope it makes you as happy as she looks in this photo. I also hope you start holding your doughnuts using her method. 

The market at 8:30 am is busier than my usual 7:30am time, and the music is lively. It could be that I should check out the market at different times in the morning. Except that I missed my usual bag of mixed lettuces... though I can not complain since there was arugula to be had.

I also got there in time to get the first piece of the last one of this week's cakes from Chonky treats and sweets.  Blueberry/lemon, one of the world's best flavor combinations. 

this mother and daughter in their hats

THIS was a first for me at the farmers market this morning! Two cat moms with a well behaved marmalade tabby in his stroller, leash on in case of emergency. I wanted to hug them, hug the kitty, hug everyone at the market... oh it made me smile. 

And what about this duo? Don't you just love that mom's smile and her cute hair. The baby is what caught my eye first... but when the mom turned around I HAD to ask for the photo.

There was also orange cauliflower, wonderful heads of cabbage, bunches of kale and garlic scapes... all on display for me. Ok for you too.

The smell as I approached Moon on the Meadow's booth was intoxicating.

Sweet peas! Lots and lots of them. Baskets of them in fact. 



The poppy's were lovely too. 

This mother and daughter in their hats... I want to imprint on their collective memory this morning, in their hats, happy together. 

I had to get a piece of hummingbird cake. I didn't try it last year and it has pineapple on top, and I think it's a southern specialty, and the lady behind me in line said it was her favorite, and the turquoise frosting, and it's June. I also think brother was whispering in my ear to get it. All the way from Virginia. 

What you can not see in my basket is sugar snap peas, a cucumber, humus, strawberries, and kale.

A perfectly well-rounded haul if I do say so myself.

without batting an eye, she said the cookie

Flowers at the farmers market are one of my very most favorite things to buy. AND, when I get to pick each individual stem, bring them home, and arrange them in a vase myself, that is my favorite of the favorites. So, you can imagine my delight when this is what I spotted walking into the market this week.

The girl with pistachio nails was really nice too. 

These sunflowers were another flower option. 

So tall, and ready to pop into your garden. The germinating and careful tending all done for you. 

I caught this little miss in a moment of sheer enjoyment. She was having one of the Chonky boys "Brookies" - a layered dream of cookie and brownie topped with cream cheese frosting. When I asked her which layer she liked the best, without batting an eye, and with not one second of hesitation, she replied the cookie!

There were bold beautiful heads of Napa cabbage, and women walking around with their bags of carrots. I am pretty sure they were going to make soup. I think they may plan on leaving me a container on my front porch. 

Next week will be time for me to roast beets and pickle radishes. Doesn't that sound like a good combination in a salad? Maybe with some tuna and a hard boiled egg... thick bread on the side. 

I picked up a bag of lettuce from these two. 

These two ladies with the great t-shirts had information about a community school they are starting in Lawrence. I don't know what a community school is for sure, but it sounds interesting. 

Here is what I unpacked this week. A nice bag of arugula to go with the lettuce, and what is likely the last of the strawberries and asparagus. 

What do you think of my arrangement of stems? I gave myself an A+, because in my mind I am an excellent flower selector, trimmer, and arranger. I also check and change the water every few days. Except if I forget, which I might have done once and it taught me a good lesson. 

along with the stock arranged in a vase

Let's just start with this shall we?

Last week the double chocolate extravaganza did not make it to the basket. No way was I passing up the orange creamsicle this Saturday.  Nope. I don't know about you, but when we were kids a frozen fudge bar or an orange creamsicle were THE summer treats at the ball park, where we spent many hours watching brother play. In the basket it went. Straight away. Right after the last container of strawberries was passed back to me by the really nice lady in front of me in line at Moon on the Meadow's booth. 

Not sure if these tomatoes are hydroponic and/or grown in a tunnel, but aren't they pretty? 

The sea of broccoli was lovely as well. 

This hat was a stunner, especially in combination with that pink "hello kitty" patch on the back of the dress.

Seeing these made me miss the days of my red/pink knock out roses... so simple, so pretty. 

Yellow chanterelles were represented as well. Sauted with a bit of onion and garlic and lovingly ladled over a piece of pumpernickel toast covered in smashed avocado is how I would eat them. Bloody Mary on the side. 



Miss pink boots below preferred a doughnut. To each her own. 

I snapped up two bunches of stock for my flowers this week. The smell is heavenly. Mrs. Peters from Peters Family farms makes my favorite sourdough and I grabbed a loaf of that too. Toasted with butter, sometimes with marmalade, equally delicious.







Here’s the unpacked photo… along with the stock arranged in a vase.

and just one more, because… well you know why.

why haven't I made soup in such a long time

The cloudy coolness last Saturday at the market was brightened considerably in several unexpected ways. Starting with this lady's basket.

There were colorful macarons - which I had not previously spotted for sale. 

Hot dogs for breakfast! It's good to have a partner for things like this. 

There was some kind of magic in the sky, spotted by these two. I was too busy looking at them to look up myself.

Flowers - yes, despite the presence of flowers in my own yard, no market trip is complete unless a bouquet gets put in the basket.

Zydeco music was back.

I also happened to get there in time for another pint of strawberries which continue to be simply wonderful.

This lettuce on THIS tablecloth. Sigh.

The carrots from Mellowfield farms  were plentiful.  Why haven't I made soup in such a long time. Note to self - get back at it.

Here is what I came home with.

The perfect complement of greens, asparagus, flowers, strawberries, macarons, and baklava.  

future farmers in training

This week at the market there were women balancing cute puppies and coffee and multiple bouquets while reaching for bags of asparagus.

There were snap dragons and gladiolas, people waiting for doughnuts, wonderful looking greens, and future farmers in training. 

There was carrot cake and pottery for sale.





I also noted youngsters in sunglasses eating their breakfast. Each in their own way. 





Best Farmers market outfits for the day went to this couple. 



Here is what I came home with...



and of course, this. A moist, dense, nutty, bit of cake to help us celebrate an anniversary. 

Isn't it a rule or something that you should have cake on such an occasion? 

indulge thine own self

Before I get new flowers at the market Saturday morning, indulge my need to share last weeks bouquet more fully. 

 Now go forth and indulge thine own self with some blossoms from your local market that will fill you with whatever you need this week. 

P.S. These tulips are from Cook's Market operated by Matthew and Amanda Cook in Baldwin City Kansas. They are at the Lawrence Farmers market on Saturdays. 

give me a second to get the flowers on the table

Hello flowers. You beautiful local, colorful, splendidly wonderful, things. 

Good to see you lettuces. Especially all grown together in a salad pot. 

Oh, hey there relatives of the Dracaena trifasciata that I got last year. Which by the way, remains extremely healthy, and about to go back outside again. To it's front porch summer location. 

She was getting good advice on succulents from a succulent farmer. 

No words needed for the cuteness factor here. I want these 3 to move next door to me so I can be their old lady neighbor. 

"...with the practiced eye of a market regular she examined the plants and selected exactly the one that would be perfect for the location she had picked out..."



Good morning cinnamon rolls, pecan rolls, and Black Forest cake. 

Welcome back green onions fresh and pungent, you would go well with the multi-colored eggs. 

Greetings were shared with my favorite vendors. 

So nice to see you lilac bouquets, with your smiling arranger. 

And last, but never least, the spirit of the market today can be seen in this lovely woman who thinks nothing of donning a crown for her head when she feels the need. She ALWAYS makes me smile when I see her.  



Here is what I came home with. 



If you give me a second to get the flowers on the table and put on a pot of coffee, we can have cranberry orange scones together. I have our napkins already picked out. 

You can tell me about your dreams, and I will tell you about mine. Alternately we can just talk about how happy I am that the Lawrence Farmers Market is back in operation. 

on my list of people to interview next year at the market

There was something for almost everyone at the Holiday Farmers market this past Saturday in Lawrence. A craft table activity areas for kids - complete with supplies and elves to get you started, the Chonky sweets guys were there with not one, or two, but three beautiful cakes, and nearby a lovely selection of pears to balance the sugar and glitter.  

Local vineyards were represented, and to be clear, she was only having coffee at 8:55am. I was delighted to see Mellowfield farms with their amazingly flavorful and tender combination of lettuces along with kale and chard. I thought long and hard about a Christmas cactus which I don't have, but Dottie does, and I am always envious of how beautiful it is in December. 

These jars of fermented vegetables looked like jewels in glass. Note to self: figure out what one does with fermented vegetables. Put them in a grain bowl? A salad? On top of rice and beans? All three?

Best "dressed for the weather" award to her. 

This fellow had a great seat, and had the "lean move" figured out to maximize his viewing. 

I turned my disappointment about no kuchen bread this year, into an opportunity to try the chocolate babka, and while I was at it, decided this was THE year to get some Drake's Fruitcake - a Lawrence original. 

There was lovely greenery, wreaths, and pottery waiting to be snapped up for decorating and gift giving. 

Finally, there was a Santa you could visit with, but why would you want to see him when you could sit and have a conversation with her about making things? Imagine all the topics we could cover, the ideas that would be generated. She just got on my list of people to interview next year at the market. 

with a mouth full of orange/cranberry splendor

There were not many vendors or shoppers at the market this morning when I went. I did however, find everything I needed, and then some. Most importantly they had the perfect pie pumpkins, which will be eaten, after they are written on by our turkey day guests... a listing of the things they are thankful for.  I got two in case I take up all the space on the first one.

I had a nice chat with my favorite baker, about how he is looking forward to a break after the holiday market. Even bakers need time to rest and recharge their batteries.  Isn't it interesting how we sometimes "romanticize" a career that we think would be "fun", somehow not thinking about how hard that work is too? 

I wasn't going to get a piece of cake this morning, planning instead to stock up on a few scones to freeze and have later in the winter. But then we started talking about cranberries and oranges and adding things to a cake, and the tartness of cranberries... and before you know it, a slice was cut, packaged and in my basket. 



It's the last market of the season! Of course I had to have a piece. 

I was so happy to see this farmer with her greens back this week. Bags of mixed lettuces and kale were snapped up.  

How interesting are these radishes? She told me they are generally used for pickling - or maybe it was fermenting?

The pumpkins came from this farmer who had the most interesting tomatoes too.  



These cabbages had me thinking of pork roast and Blau Kraut - think red cabbage, bacon, apples, onion... all cooked together with some red wine and apple cider vinegar. Marilyn gave me the recipe from her German teacher years ago, it's a keeper. 

This group was only too happy to oblige when I asked them to "wave goodbye" for the last market post of the season. 



I will miss popping out of bed bright and early on Saturday mornings, but April is going to be here again in the blink of an eye. Until then, I shall perfect soup recipes and work on my own baking skills. 

Tonight I will say this cake was very good. The frosting tasted like an orange creamsicle, the cranberries were tart, the cake was moist. 



In other words, I enjoyed every bite. Which is exactly as it should be. Especially when our hot water heater seems to be on the fritz. Who can worry about stuff like that with a mouth full of orange/cranberry splendor?

I hope all the family recipes are being passed along

30 degree temperatures were endured Saturday morning because there were rumors of a banana cake with a chocolate swirl on parade. 

There were also beautifully iced sugar cookies and fall arrangements.

Yes to a Thanksgiving table centerpiece that includes a lotus pod, dried sunflowers, and bittersweet.



Let's all get a pumpkin and a sharpie and write out what we are grateful for this year. If you are coming here to eat your turkey dinner, start thinking of what you will write ... shelter, family, warmth, music, books, sewing, friends, my bed, work, connections across the globe, cats, lotion, walking, flowers, trees, farmers ... I will try to save some space, but I am just getting started.



I picked up a large bunch of kale to balance out the cake.





Award for best hat of the weekend to Karen Pendleton. 



When did this grandson get as tall as his grandfather? I hope they never stop being partners at the market.

And I hope all the family recipes are being passed along. No one makes falafel or baklava like they do.

I had to get a loaf of the Peters family's sourdough bread. Just in case they are not at the very last market next weekend. It makes THE best toast. 

My basket was full by the time I got to the pumpkins or these would be on my front porch right NOW. 

Finally, let me get back to that cake for a second...

It was moist, not too sweet, the hint of chocolate balanced well with the banana. In other words, a real taste treat. 

be still my heart

It was a chilly, dark, start at the market Saturday.  But I am so glad I went. Here's why... 

The pumpkins and gourds on display did not disappoint. 

Fresh local flower season is pretty much gone, but hang on... the mums are still here. In all their glory, by the way. 

I think I said this before but these tiny potatoes make me squeal they are so cute. I must get in synch with the cook here at Tall Tales and plan a menu that includes them.  

I was delighted to find lettuce and arugula today. That butternut squash is going to be made into a new recipe this week - curried butternut soup. This piece of Pear Ginger cake from Chonky Sweets and Eats made it's way into my basket this week as well.  The Caramel Apple cake that I took with me to the Ozarks received HIGH marks from all the Moss's. This purchase was all in the name of evaluating quality control.  Someone has to do it. 

Would you get a load of these bunches of carefully dried sunflowers?????? 

Only 2 Saturday Farmers markets are left for the season. Mark your calendars though for the Holiday Farmers Market - December 11th from 9am to 4pm.  This year it will be at the open pavilion at the Douglas County Fairgrounds (1930 Harper Street) instead of the usual location (Holidome). 

Karen Pendleton had a glimpse of what is in store for us at their booth this morning. Be. Still. My. Heart. 

P.S. This gourd was snatched up immediately. No way I was going to chance that another one like it would be at the holiday market.

four pieces were procured

This farmers market post will begin with these amazing dahlias. When I set the basket down in the morning sun after arriving home, the light was perfect. The camera clicked.

The structure of these flowers is just incredible. They hardly seem real, then again, nature all on it's own, makes the best of everything.  All she asks in return is for us to notice. 

There were lots of good sights to be seen at the market this week.  

Including one of my all time favorites, these two, whom I refer to as "the Turkey Trot couple" in their hats. They let me know they will once again be headed to NYC this year for the 5K race on Thanksgiving, with their daughter.  

You may want to roast up a sheetpan of fingerling potatoes soon. Drizzled with olive oil, salt, pepper, a sprinkle of rosemary if you want.

You can even do a combo of potatoes and winter squash. Yes you can. In the fall, all sorts of things are possible. What is it that makes this season when the leaves are turning and falling always feel NEW to me? I can't explain it.  We feel what we feel right?

I had to get a picture of mama bear and baby bear - both smiling. They are fall lovers too. I can tell.

Don't these locally grown apples just scream for a peeler, brown sugar, cinnamon, butter, a sprinkle of salt, flour, and oats . Mixed and thrown in a pan to bake and magically transform into apple cobbler? Best eaten in front of the fire with your friends, who come over to cut out leaves from felt so you can all make banners.

Below is the caramel apple cake of the week from Chonky Treats and Eats.  I was informed by my brother not to bother to show my face at our annual get-together this week unless I bring some of THIS cake with me.  Four pieces were dutifully procured. Opinions from all tasters will be accurately recorded and submitted.

Finally let me close with a few more shots of the dahlias.

There could be more later in the week as well. I have been circling them as they sit on the table. Capturing them from all angles. Each one better than the last.