Tall Tales from Kansas

while I was in the midst of me-oh-my'ing

In case you were wondering,

the molasses cookies with eggnog buttercream frosting from the Black Squirrel Bake Shop were EXCEPTIONAL.  A crackly exterior with a soft middle... and that frosting.  You will see I bought two.  In case Chris wanted one (which I knew he would not).  But that is why there are two tiny apple turnovers right next to them from Muriel.  Because Chris can't pass up a baked fruit dessert that includes apples.  And I didn't want him to feel left out, while I was in the midst of me-oh-my'ing.  

they did not come in anything larger than toddler size

Saturday was the Holiday Farmer Market in Lawrence.  A guaranteed good time.  For many reasons.

Like stars made from measuring sticks, 

wreaths made from okra, 

and bath bombs presented in an old Samsonite suitcase. Just like the ones we had when we were kids.  

There were very little girls with very big suckers, 

plenty of socks to choose a new pair from,

and wreaths made tree trunk discs.  

Holiday Mart fashion win #1.  Get a load of the scarf.  So stylish.  

Karen had a huge display of hand painted gourds,

and Muriel, who is known for her brittle (but I love her for her beets), had this beautiful display of all sorts of pickled magic.  

These bags, made from recycled hand stitched items really caught my eye, 

as did these super cute trees and button flowers.

Don't get me started on the owl pillow.  

I was delighted to find a Kuchen loaf from Baking Traditions.  It was sliced and toasted it for breakfast when I got home.  The same exact routine was repeated on Sunday morning.  No sense messing with perfection.

I loved this "story" of the goats that are behind the soaps and creams that they make on Homestead Ranch.  

No Holiday Market is complete without some fragrant greenery.  

Cute baby in cute hat, being carried by cute mom in cute hat, with stranger in background also in hat.  

See those sandwich cookies below?  They are molasses with eggnog buttercream filling.  Of course I bought some.  

To balance out all that sweetness, there was plenty of cabbage, kale, and spinach to be had.  

Last but not least, let me tell you about the cutest little pants on the planet.  

I really wanted to get the striped ones for myself and the blue and striped ones for Chris.  Alas they did not come in anything larger than toddler size.  

my fountain needed to have something in it

Marcy and Al were at the Farmers Market on Saturday in their warm hats.  I first spotted them a few years back, and since then, have taken a picture of then in their cold weather headgear every year.  It means that the season is coming to an end.

This year I talked to them. Al explained they get the hats when they go to New York, where there daughter lives, and run the 5 mile Turkey Trot each year.  

Chestnuts were also being roasted this week.  

Bright orange buttercup squash caught my eye.  I am going to make soup out of it.  The woman selling it tells me it tastes more like pumpkin than squash.  

I also got delicata squash to roast.

I did not get any turnips, but I did get a big bunch of broccoli raab that I am going to sauté OR try to use in salads.  Do any of you eat broccoli raab greens raw? I need to know this stuff.  

This arrangement screamed at me as I walked by.  And was immediately snatched up.  

One more pot of mums came home as well because they were only 5 dollars, and I decided my fountain, which has been turned off for the season, needed to have something in it.

Other selections at the market included decorative bundles of corn and lovely heads of Napa cabbage.

I also spotted this couple enjoying their breakfast burritos, but what really caught my eye was her coat. It reminded me of one that Angie used to have, except hers was a pinkish/gray color. What happened to that coat? 

There were whispers that there may not be a market next week. The number of vendors is dwindling. If you are in the area, the annual Holiday Market will be on Saturday, December 8th.  Link below for more details if you are interested. 

Helpful links:  Holiday Farmers Market - Lawrence Kansas 

she was not on the list of items for lunch

After several weeks away from my Saturday market routine, it was good to get back there this weekend.  

A haze was lifting, and the sun was coming up as I drove out of the neighborhood.  

When I arrived, some kids were playing a game of "jump the curb", while their parents shopped at the market.  Others were staying warm in the back of the vehicle while sales were made.

The number one item on my list was mums for the porch.  Which I located and purchased quickly.

Then the wandering around began.  There are only 2 or 3 more weeks of market season left for this year.  It's important let it all soak it in. While I can.    

 

I have noticed this woman's selections many times.  

I appreciated her sprinkling of halloween items amidst the baked goods.  

She alerted me to the fact that it was "Black Cat Saturday" and then we reminisced about the days when we used to do hot yoga together. Which I had forgotten about.  Not the hot yoga.  You can NOT forget that.  But that she was sometimes in the sessions I attended too.  

I took advantage of likely the last chance for a fresh bouquet.  Dahlias are so majestic.  

I also loaded up on items to make lunches for the week.  

She was not on list of items for lunch, but dang was she ever CUTE!   I love her hat and teeny tiny mittens.

come rain or come shine

We made it out to 5 of the farms on the 14th Annual Raw Valley Farm Tour over the weekend.  These photos are from both Saturday and Sunday.  It's a marathon.  Fasten your seatbelts and enjoy the ride.  I don't think any commentary will be needed.  

Driving out through the fields of Kansas.  Even on an overcast day, is pretty good.  

Thank you to the following farmers we visited for opening up their places to us.

Coal Creek Farms
Vesecky Family Farms
Pendleton's Country Market
Blue Morning Glory Farm
Henry's Plant Farm

If YOU want to experience the Kaw Valley Farm Tour, mark your calendars for the first full weekend in October.  You won't regret it.  Come rain or some shine.   

a new kind of strawberry jam that had whole strawberries in it

50 degree mornings have returned, and with them the knitted hat.  Worn most wonderfully here by the Mellowfield Farms folks at the farmers market on Saturday.  

There was also the more traditional hat and jean jacket look, sported by this fellow.

No hat for little Miss Striped tights, who was busy eating breakfast, but her hood was at the ready if needed.

The Paw Paws were back this week and I know I said last year that I would figure out what you do with them and try them this year.  But that might have been an untruth.  

I did pick up a new jar of honey.    

Not just any old honey.

I went for the Raw Buckwheat Honey.  Winter is coming.  I will be arming my body against invaders.  If I like it that is.  I can't put things in my body that don't taste good.  My mouth will have none of it.  The woman selling it told me it was "stronger tasting" than regular honey.  Maybe it will taste like a cross between honey and Steens Cane syrup?  Stay tuned.  

 The flowers are still coming on strong, but they are going to be edged out soon by pumpkins and gourds.

And actually, while they are both around I see no reason not to have some of each.   And put them together on the table.

There was also kale, spinach, peppers, zucchini, green beans, peaches, a butternut squash, and 2 cucumbers in my basket this week.

Oh and I loved the pickled beets I got last week and stocked up on a few jars of those, as well as a new kind of strawberry jam that had whole strawberries in it.  It will be needed for steel cut oats and yogurt over the winter.  Of course I could buy it at the store in January.  But that wouldn't be the same.  

And that is the report from the Lawrence Farmers market for this week.  Good night Sunday, I hate to see you go.  

I thought you "wiked bwekfust buwitos"

This week I intend to make some kind of cabbage salad with red pepper and malabar spinach, rustle up a corn salsa to go with grilled steak, throw together kale salads with butternut squash, and eat as many tomatoes as I can.     

Thus, the unusually large haul at the farmers market you see above.  The acorn squash, cucumber, and bag of tender salad greens were all impulse buys.  As was the container of baklava not included in the photograph.   

When the first thing I see upon entering the market involves smiling faces and happy meetings, it reinforces that feeling of community at the market.     

This fellow had just offered his mom a bite when I walked by.  She said she was full already and he said "but I thought you wiked bwekfust buwitos"

The beginning of pumpkin season is upon us.  With the chill in the air Saturday it was all I could do not to start getting out the orange yarn. Or running upstairs and digging through the pile of wool strips and planning out a new hooked pumpkin to make.  

Dog-gone it she wasn't the cutest in those rain-boots, belted coat, and scarf.  Then when I asked to take her picture, she smiled and took cuteness to a whole new level. 

This week's arrangement had to be the one with sunflowers, though I deliberated between it and the one with that really interesting green and purple flower in photo #4.  

It was all about the height and the incorporation of the zebra grass.

 When I was picking it out I told Karen it was "majestic".  Sometimes the right bouquet just calls your name and as they say "resistance is futile".  

as he carefully examined the tiny tomatoes

This week was the last 7am start for the Saturday farmers market in Lawrence.  I for one, am ready for it.  My 4 competing priorities on Saturday morning are walking, going to the market, sitting on the porch to drink coffee, and trying to squeeze in 30 more minutes of sleep before the first 3.  

So let's just start off with serious market cuteness this week.  The feet on this baby were infinitely squish-able.  

Everyone standing around this lady in her "market version of Rosie the Riveter" ran when I asked to take her photo.  Camera shy or witness protection program?  I didn't ask.  When I saw that beautiful silver hair with the red bandana and dark glasses all pushed up in that no-nonsense totally cute way I couldn't help myself.  

In the 4-legged adorable category,  I give you this extremely well-behaved dog.  

And then there was him.  I have no idea what was going on in his head as he carefully examined the tiny tomatoes, but his delightful, unabashed, curiosity was fun to watch.  

Oh.  Yes, there was produce.  Plums and green beans, and peaches and apples and peppers and kale and salad greens.  

Plus flowers and spinners.  

And with that, I wish you all great Mondays, whatever you're doing, wherever you are.  

all the makings for some good eats

Highlights from this weekend's farmers market included boys in t-shirts advertising their dad's comedic talents, and baskets of mariachi peppers perfect for fajita making.

I am not sure why I have never noticed before how perfectly lined up the produce and signs are at the Mellowfields farm booth.  It's a thing of beauty when glimpsed from a few feet back, where you can appreciate such a thing.  

I think these boys were enjoying their cinnamon rolls.  I caught one of them mid-chew and I believe that accounts for the expression.   

This junior farmer was dispensing advice on which melon might best meet a customers needs.  

Since I had just spent a day sewing, you know I almost jumped with joy when I saw these ladies in their dresses.  I LOVED that colorful fabric and she let me know just where she bought it!  Fellow makers are nice that way.  

Blondee apples, heirloom tomatoes, and kombucha tea merchants with dimples were also spotted.  

I loved listening to these ladies trying to decide which bunch of flowers to buy.

They agreed I had already selected the most spectacular arrangement. 

 Cabbage, kale, spinach, peppers, a cucumber, a summer squash, a dozen eggs, and a few tomatoes rounded out my purchases.  

All the makings for some good eats this week.   

I just totally made that up

The sun was in the perfect position when I arrived at the farmers market on Saturday.  

Casting everyone and everything in the most beautiful morning light.

Grapes and okra were available this weekend.

And a most colorful selection of flowers.

She won "Carol's pick for best market outfit" this week.  Hat, basket, flowing skirt.  All in perfect harmony.  

When I got home I scurried about making my own harmonious combinations.

Carrots were added to the cucumbers and onion.  Lentils were added to the salad for the week.  It's all a part of the Experimentation for Interest Eating Plan.  I just totally made that up.  

... to you. And yourself.

There was lots of stuff to choose from this weekend at the market.  I saw the beets early on and got a basket of red and a basket of gold.  Because I couldn't decide between them.  Plus, if you are turning on your oven to roast vegetables, in the summer, might as well make it worth your while.

The squash was beautiful too.  As I walked by I had a vision of butternut squash bisque, served in a heavy white bowl, with a side of hearty peasant bread, eaten on an outdoor patio at dusk, while gazing off at the mountains in the distance.  

These succulents in cute little pots made me smile.  And, by the way, all the succulents that I put in pots early on this summer are tolerating our drought quite well.  

These made me remember I want to make watermelon salsa again this summer.   Heck I haven't even made regular salsa yet this summer.  There will be plenty of time.  For both.   

The peaches are perfect right now.  Peeled and eaten with blueberries for breakfast.  On top of steel cut oats. With chopped walnuts, yogurt, drizzle of honey.  Swoon.

The tuberose flowers stopped me in my tracks.  I started talking to myself when I saw them.  

Me:  Should I get those this week or more sunflowers?

Myself:  You said before you left you were going to get more sunflowers because they were so pretty last week.

Me:  Yes, but that's before I knew these would be here.  

Myself:  Well get what you want but don't blame me if you wish you would have gotten the sunflowers.

Me won out.  

And I didn't blame myself.  Because look how simple and perfect these are on the table.  

This weeks salads for lunch - kale, roasted beets, chopped up red pepper, black beans, dried cranberries.  I know it sounds crazy, but it's good stuff.  Usual dressing - 3T olive oil, 2T honey, 2T apple cider vinegar,  1/2 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper.  

Happy new week to all.  Whatever you are doing.  Wherever you are.  

Sending tuberose flowers to you.  And yourself.  

 

the main topic of conversation

It was a sunflower kind of weekend at the farmers market on Saturday.  

I went for an even 1/2 dozen for the table in lieu of my usual mixed arrangement.  

I also had my eyes peeled for the ingredients needed for this crunchy cashew thai quinoa salad.  

He had some GREAT red peppers...

... and her Malabar spinach is so good I got some of that to include as well.  

These two cuties were busy chewing on things and not at all sure they wanted to be at the market, but were going along with the plan.  They won the award for cutest feet at the market this week.  

The main topic of conversation was... wait for it... RAIN.  When it was coming.  How much we were going to get. Radar was consulted for the latest information.  We like to remain optimistic here in Kansas.  

Just as soon as the chopping was done, the sunflowers were arranged in a pitcher.

And then taken outside where they were photographed from every angle possible.

I am not sure I have seen white sunflowers before.  I like them.  A whole lot.   

there is always something new and beautiful waiting to be spotted at the farmer market in Lawrence Kansas

 This full basket is an indication of the selections at the market on Saturday.

Lets start with the flowers for my table shall we.

Normally not a huge fan of cockscomb celosia, when I spotted it in combination with the sunflowers, it was so stunning, there was no question which bouquet was coming home with me.  

The rest of my basket contents are below.  

More blueberries to freeze.  Basil for a caprese salad and home-made pizza, salads for this week, and fresh crunchy things to serve as vehicles for hummus.  

The selection of peppers this week were eye-catching.

As was this lady, perusing the produce at Mellowfield Farms...

...where they had beautiful rainbow chard and summer squash.

They are right next door to the Wohletz Farm folks and my friend Madeline.

The peaches ladies were back.

And if you needed flat parsley, there was a nice selection of fragrant herbs. 

Someone was captivated by the entertainment.  

And you can see why.  %*&#@!!  I am kicking myself for not taking a video.  So you could hear why.  

I bought a tomato to go with the basil... 

...along with some carrots,

from these farm gals.

I guess it's a good problem to have to want to buy something from every farmer there.  

The last thing I want to tell you about this weeks market is -  Rudbeckia Triloba "Prairie Glow".

It stopped me in my tracks when I leaned over to pick up my basket after paying for the flowers.   There is always something new and beautiful waiting to be spotted at the Farmers Market in Lawrence Kansas.     

based on the finger licking I observed

 Tomatoes were front and center at the farmers market this week.  Beautiful.  Just sitting there.  Waiting for salt, bread, mayo.   

Cantaloupes have also appeared.  Waiting for pepper and a side of cottage cheese.  

Radiant bouquets of brightly colored flowers.  Not waiting for anything.  As usual, I made this my first stop.

When I turned around after making my flower purchase my eyes fell on them.   Oh dear the cuteness.  They may win the prize for Farmers Market Family of 2018.  

I was especially excited to find my first peaches of the season.  These are not gorgeous peaches.  They are peaches that are ready to be eaten.  NOW.  For breakfast.   I may have frightened the women selling them with my enthusiasm.  I had begun to worry there would be none, then I rounded the corner and spotted them.  I can see how they thought I might be pouncing on them. 

Malabar spinach!  Something new for me.  

And what about the eggplant?  I mean the one below.  That looks like a real person.  

This lady won the award for combining comfort, organization, practicality, and flair all into one very good look.  

I do not know what was on the stick this family was trying out, but I can tell you it was certainly being enjoyed by all based on the finger licking I observed.  

I love a good display at the market.  This week the corn and summer squash caught my eye.  

Finally, that egg on the top that looks marbled is a duck egg.  The extremely nice farmer that sold me this dozen was careful to explain there was a duck egg in the carton and that if I had any baking planned it would add "extra richness" to anything I put it in.   You better believe I snatched it up.  I am thinking it needs to go in some kind of cake.  What say you?  

toddler-sized sunflowers

 It was completely delightful to get back to my farmers market this weekend.  

Thank you Karen for saving the last of the peonies until I returned from Germany.

Although I will say, it was really hard to pass up these yellow beauties.

As well as the combination bouquets.  There will be time for those.  

Sweet corn season has started.  We will be eating it regularly for the next few weeks.  Right off the cob.  I also saw this great recipe that I want to try.   

I did not bring home any cherry tomatoes, but I most certainly did pick up some baklava.

No blackberries for me either, but you can bet I got 3 pints of blueberries.  

There were lots of women with cute hats at the market.  I bought a hand-made hat in Oberammergau that I will be sporting as soon as it arrives in the package I mailed myself from Germany.  It's good to know I will be in good company.  Sporting my sky piece.  As Chris called it.    

Right this moment the smell of peonies is permeating the house.  A most pleasing fragrance.

After they were arranged, I set about cleaning and freezing some of the blueberries.   Then I made a blueberry cake.  As soon as it was in the oven I sat down and ate a bowl of blueberries with muesli for breakfast.  Nothing better.  

None of these mammoth sunflowers came home from the market with me, but gosh aren't they amazing?  What's not to like about toddler-sized flowers?  

some kind of insanely delicious lunch

Despite the fact that there was a blown-over umbrella out back Saturday morning, and a knocked down tree in the middle of the road on 9th street (that had to be driven around), and a few intermittent rain drops with thunder rumbling in the distance, the farmers market went on. 

Rain boots were worn, strings were still strung, bags were still toted.

There were new people to meet,

peonies to select,

decorating to admire,

and produce to acquire.

I am trying the Dino kale this week - it will be combined somehow with purple cauliflower and cabbage.  Fashioned into some kind of insanely delicious lunch.

 Chris will probably insist that I pack all his lunches this week too.  Not.  

every star needs a supporting cast

For Memorial Day I present peonies.  Specifically, Festiva Maxima.  Discovered at the market this past weekend.  I don't always know the names of peonies.   I think they are all lush, amazing, and wonderful.  

A few years back Coral Charm showed up on my radar.  Since then I try to remember to ask Karen the names of any that make my knees go weak.

Truth be told, Festiva Maxima would not be so spectacular on her own. 

Without the others surrounding her to highlight the uniqueness of that hint of fuschia in the center at the edges of the petals.

Every star needs a supporting cast.

 In addition to admiring peonies from every single possible angle, we also did some weed pulling, lawn mowing, statuary water-proofing, mulch spreading, hamburger eating, and movie watching this weekend. 

But none of those pictures compared to the peonies.   

Not even close.  Trust me. 

they belong on your dinner plate 4 out of 7 nights all summer long

Each weekend the farmers market gets better and better as we move along in the growing season.

Competition for space in the basket begins.  Mindful packing is the rule. 

This is the time of year when peonies are bought first thing and walked back to the car before I can move along with the rest of my business. 

Running neck and neck with my excitement about the peonies, was my delight in these!

Small, perfect, Kansas-grown, strawberries.  AND a long weekend to enjoy eating them with blueberries, bananas, muesli, and milk with a drizzle of honey and a BIG cup of coffee for breakfast. 

There were cute girls in hats buying kombucha tea at the market and red, red, red, tomatoes.

The butterhead lettuce was like a museum exhibit in it's perfection.  Minus the price of admission.   

This cute pup checked out my overflowing basket with approval as I paid for my sweet peas.

When I saw them I was immediately transported back to Lummi Island, and the "self-serve" flower stand right up the road from our house.  I of course had to have some.  

Along with the last of the asparagus, beets, cauliflower, broccoli, spinach, kale, and 2 tomatoes.  I wasn't going to get tomatoes.   But I couldn't help myself. 

They are like pickled cucumbers, in that they belong on your dinner plate 4 out of 7 nights all summer long. 

Sigh.  I know I say this every week, but it truly WAS a perfect Saturday at the farmers market this week. 

this event was not scrutinized as closely as Harry and Meghan's wedding

When everyone else was getting up early to watch "the wedding" Saturday, I too arose and selected an outfit with care.

For my big event of the day. 

The farmers market.

Where there were wedding-worthy flowers and the freshest of vegetables.

With guests properly attired for the occasion,

including the random appearance of a fascinator,

and George and Amal had nothing on this cute couple, who were selling THE most beautiful heads of cabbage. 

 

A selection of baklava, was purchased in lieu of wedding cake,

along with a few other necessities. 

Unfortunately this event was not scrutinized as closely as Harry and Meghan's wedding, but I did my best to bring it to you, and will continue to do so.  Rain or shine.   

she loved bachelor's buttons

Happy Mothers day to all my favorite mothers out there.  You know who you are. 

This little bouquet at the market was a special hello to me from Angie. 

She loved bachelor's buttons (aka centaurea cyanus and cornflowers).  I have a vivid memory of her coming to help me plant flowers at the very first house we bought in Lawrence in 1985.  We planted some of them on the side of the house.  Afterwards we sat on the steps out front. We were hot, tired, and immensely satisfied with our work.

The fact that these came in a tall mason jar and had anemone's tucked in alongside was a bonus.

We often (as in almost always) need several bouquets at Tall Tales headquarters.  Because we can, so we should.   I told Chris the other day that since I am now 59 years old he should "expect to hear a lot of wisdom coming out of this pie hole".   The necessity to purchase multiple bouquets at the farmers market is one such example. 

you know my mom don't you?

 There were clouds and a few sprinkles this morning at the farmers market.

Along with this amazing cauliflower.

Girls in cute outfits.

Bouquets for your mother.

 

Men, prepared for rain.

Eggs.  From hens.  Some of them young. 

Flowers.  Not designated for any specific person. 

Microgreens.

JT's flowers.

Hanging beets.

And more flowers, because there can never be too many. 

But the very, very, very, BEST thing that happened at the market today was this.

This boy, coming up to "Mrs. Pendleton" and saying "you know my mom don't you?"

And when she said "yes", he asked "what kind of flower will she like the best?" When she steered him to the basket of bougainvillea, I agreed wholeheartedly. 

Dear recipient of the bougainvillea:  I hope you like your flowers.  I sure like your boy.   

the best hummus maker in all of kansas and his cute grandson

Last weekend at the farmers market was perfect.  No wind.  No rain.  And all my favorite things in abundance.   Like farmers with pigtails. 

Asparagus so fresh that you don't need to cook it.  This is the time of year to just give it a rough chop and throw it on a salad. 

Cosmos ready for me to plant in the front garden.  The ones I got from Vinland Valley Nursery last year were perfect and warranted a repeat. 

Cilantro to sprinkle on enchiladas for our Cinco de Mayo fiesta.



The best hummus maker in all of Kansas and his cute grandson.

Grab yourself a tub of this and a pound of fresh asparagus and you got yourself a meal. 

These daffodils were not only beautiful, the had the most divine fragrance. 

Win-Win. 

I honestly couldn't pick just one of these photos to show how lovely they are.



Super healthy looking tomato plants.  But I needed Chris for this purchase.  We went out to Pendleton's after the market and made our selections.    



This perfect looking head of broccoli, like the asparagus, is tender and fresh, perfect for dipping. 

 Farm fresh eggs will be hard boiled to go with the spinach. 

And of course some soulful singing.  I came home with a very full basket. 

For a weeks worth of local eating!

and a bunch of redbud branches for the table

On Saturday morning, my first stop at the farmers market was the Red Tractor Farm booth.  For asparagus.  First of the season.

On the way there, I walked by these tulips with a plan to circle back.

But when I walked by Moon on the Meadow, my eye was drawn first by the edible flowers, and then to the tulips.

Which look exactly like a still life by a dutch master if you ask me.

There were geraniums with the most beautiful foliage.  Ever.  Seriously.

The Pendleton's had the first tomato of the season, priced like the jewel that it was.  If Chris hadn't already carefully planned our meals for the weekend, I would have paid that easily for a BLT in April, with a locally grown tomato.

I spotted this exceedingly good looking couple buying a pot of rosemary and used my fast talking to get them to let me take their picture. 

I walked by bedding plants and boxes of spicy arugula.

Headed for Mellowfields Farm for my weekly allotment of greens.

The spinach seems extra good to me this year.  I think it's because it IS. 

It was a perfect Saturday at the market. 

Blue skies, sun, friendly faces, AND a bunch of redbud branches for the table.

what more reason is needed than that

As cold as it was on Saturday, I wasn't sure there would be flowers at the farmers market.  But there were.  Lovely, sweet, smile-inducing flowers. 

Several were selected to bring home.  Because they were there, they make me so happy, and I could.  What more reason is needed than that?

I needed it for my first day of the market post

The Lawrence Farmers market opened today!  And with it, a change in routine. 

Getting up just a bit earlier, off to see the local farmers who are going to inspire me with their wares. 

And brighten my home with their flowers... and provide my needed replacement of strawberry jam that elevates my morning oatmeal to gourmet status. 

I spied my favorite "cold -weather, hat-wearing couple".  They had no choice but to allow me to take their picture once I started spinning a tale about how I "needed" it for my first day of the market post. 

There was hot coffee to keep you warm.  

Or blankets, depending on your preference.

The chill did not prevent spinners from spinning, smilers from smiling, or friends from catching up on the latest news. 

As for me, I am delighted to have locally grown greens for the week. 

This gorgeous romaine is going to turn into a salad with a few mushrooms, some sliced hard boiled eggs, a sprinkle of walnuts, and a light vinaigrette dressing that contains a hint of Dijon. 

The rainbow chard is for lunches this week.  My favorite way.  Wilted with sweet onions and tart cherries. 

And this jar of insane strawberry goodness, in addition to being amazing on any warm grain breakfast you can dream up, will also make you shiver with delight if you spoon it over Greek yogurt and throw a few toasted walnuts on top.   

the genius behind all the handmade, home-grown, products

The Holiday Farmers market was today in Lawrence, and it was splendid.

Decorations, produce, gift ideas, and tempting treats.  It was all there.

I fell in love with the chickens at DoGood Farms and getting to meet the genius behind all the handmade, home-grown, products is something I enjoy about this annual event.

These iced molasses cookies caught my eye and I brought one home for dessert tonight.  Crunchy outside, chewy centers, just the way I like them.

More garlands for the tree on the front porch were also procured.  It is simply not possible for me to walk by any kind of garland without partaking.  

the best spot in douglas county for poinsettias

We went over the river and through the woods today.  Or more accurately, down 15th street, through the fields, and across the railroad tracks. 

To the best spot I know of in Douglas county for poinsettias and greenery.

There was all manner of other finery out there too.

But oh the poinsettias.

I came home with the most spectacular red one out there.  If you want to get the second most spectacular red one, Pendleton's will be open until December 7th.  They will also be at the holiday farmers market next weekend.  Which happens to be  one of my favorite events of the whole year.  I need all hands free for this extravaganza.  Hence fresh wreaths and poinsettias must be purchased ahead of time.  

More info on the holiday market here

the proper way to hold on to your cookie

Have you seen the inside of a Kiwano fruit?  Otherwise known as a "horned melon".  Me neither.  Until last Saturday at the Farmers market.  My first thought was "now that's a strange looking fruit".  My second thought was "oh, so many seeds".  Thought #1 made me want to try it.  Thought #2 made me not buy it. 

And while we are on the topic of seeds.  There was also this.   I haven't eaten a yellow watermelon, but gosh they were pretty.

Moving on to the pumpkin portion of this post... they were stacked atop each other, lined up, and laid out.  All equally pleasing to the eye. 

Other sightings included a young lad showing the proper way to hold on to your cookie, a teen-age girl demonstrating her rebellious spirit and a cool skirt (meanwhile isn't her little sister cute?), and an extremely nice gentleman carefully observing the flowers as he waited for his companion to make her selection. 

And after all that, I went home and made the last batch of wilted greens with cherries and onions for the season.

It was a perfect morning. 

red glasses in wedges telling backpack in boots

Yesterday's post was just words.  You were supposed to supply the pictures.  From your own fall-photo file cabinet.  Stored somewhere up in your noggin.   Today is pictures from this past Saturday's farmers market.  You supply the words.  

I have to say a few things of course.  But you knew that.  These green beans could not be passed up and so were a rather unconventional side dish for hamburgers at dinner on Sunday. 

I was not close enough to overhear this conversation, but am learning to read lips and I think this is what they were saying.  The lady in the black shirt was telling her friend how good her poached eggs were for breakfast.  The man in the red shirt said he wished he would have ordered them.  Mr. white shirt was taking notes so he wouldn't forget to order them, and Mrs. red pants was asking if they still had blueberry pancakes on the menu.

Meanwhile, on the other side of the market, red glasses in wedges is telling backpack in boots that she forgot her wallet and wonders if he has any cash. 

I did not eat poached eggs or blueberry pancakes for breakfast, nor did I forget my wallet.  Here is what I bought. 

Along with this bouquet.  With those gorgeous green and red stems that look as beautiful as the flowers and foliage on top.   

the first sighting of ornamental cabbage

Because of my extremely orderly and regimented nature, I feel compelled to show photos from last week's farmers market before moving on to what I saw today.  I would let it go and forget all about last week's market except there are some important things you need to see.  For example... did you know there was such a thing as an eight ball zucchini?

Or that in addition to genetic code, a key difference between males and females is that boys like to muck around in puddles and girls like to carry umbrellas?  This would likely not be born out in a scientific study or even a questionnaire, but it was so last week in my observation of these two. 

There was also the first sighting of ornamental cabbage. 

And a delightfully orange turban squash.  Who has cooked one?  And how did you do it?  Something this pretty has to be good.  Right?

With my purchases, I made a batch of carrot ginger soup and an apple cake from America's Test kitchen.  If you have never made the soup.  It is a WINNER.  The apple cake was OK.  I can't believe I am going to say this, but it was too dense for me.  I know.  Heresy.  But it was.  That doesn't mean I didn't eat it.  The best thing I learned when making it though was about reducing apple cider.  Which makes a delightful addition to a cocktail. 

In the reading arena while I was away, I read Our Souls at Night by Kent Haruf which I did not love like I loved Plainsong and Eventide.  BUT, my friend Mary Joan liked it very much.  It's a fast read and you may like it.  I also worked my way through Dear Mr. You by Mary Louise Parker which had some high points.  Lots of them really.  But it's kind of like living constantly in the fast lane.  Luckily the format of the book is a series of letters.  So you can read one or two and put it down for a bit.    

enjoyed the heck out of 'em

Let me bring you up to speed on what has been happening at the farmers market the last few weeks.  I'll be brief.  In a word ... sunflowers.  

There were also pumpkins, a bit of crooning, and apples. 

And these amazing cabbages!  Which had me thinking of majolica and needlepoint pillows.  And Andrea's cabbage rolls. 

The first butternut squash was bought and roasted and make into a fall salad. 

But mostly it was about sunflowers.  And this cute girl.

I was real glad I got to the bucket before she did. 

Or there wouldn't have been enough for me to bring these home to enjoy.  And I certainly have.  Enjoyed the heck out of 'em to be precise. 

this one here has me singing a different tune

In addition to the snapdragons and zinnias from Madeline, I also got this lovely arrangement Saturday at the market.  Why just have one bouquet when you can have two? 

The dahlia is what drew me to this one, but also the lovely mums.

And what about that celosia?  It reminds me of a lovely fabric you would made some sort of fancy ball gown out of. 

And when the light hits it just right it turns from pink to orange to gold. 

I have not typically been a huge fan of celosia, but this one here has me singing a different tune. 

two cherokee purples and a georgia stripe

This is Jo.  I made her acquaintance Saturday morning at the farmers market.  I almost dropped my basket when I saw her hat.   She won the award for "best sense of style" at the market today.  Hands down.  No one else came close. 

There was also winter squash and a man selling watermelons despite his injured foot.  I felt certain there was a good story behind the need for crutches but I thought better of asking.   Sometimes you just have that feeling it's best to zip the lip. 

I was glad to see a good selection of heirloom tomatoes because I needed to supplement what we grew in order to make my tomato pie this weekend. 

Katie, Madeline's sister was home and helping out at the market today.  She lives in the big city now (New York) but the farmers market is in her DNA and she couldn't stay away.  

These are the snap dragons and zinnias they arranged just for me. 

These serious musicians were giving it their all as I wandered by.  I will keep this photo in my file of "people who are going to hit it big one day".  They might need it in a future special of how they got their start. 

I spotted a "new to me" variety of spinach and picked up a bag. 

This is the first box of decorative gourds I have seen.  It made me happy. 

 These two Cherokee purples and one Georgia stripe are the heirlooms I ended up bringing home.

Another lovely Saturday at the market.  The mornings are getting cooler here.  Even with highs in the 90's the last several days our temperatures have started out about 60.  Perfect for walking, and marketing, and especially for having an extra day off. 

a taste so good the memory will carry you through until pumpkin season

On Saturday, at the farmers market, while I was busy making goo-goo eyes at this amazing bougainvillea ...

... a lady came and selected the best dahlia at the market. 

But, before you start feeling sorry for me, it made for a great conversation starter with this student who also happens to be a Friday night bouquet maker at the Pendleton's farm ...

... and he led me to the second most beautiful dahlia at the market.   After which I saw this fella.  And got all melty inside.   

Some of my other favorite sights this weekend were the eggplants, the fresh juice-maker, the madison peaches, and tables full of apples. 

I have a new recipe I want to try for an apple cake this fall.  But before I head in that direction, I decided to try these blondee's.  A new variety to me.  Which I will report back on in detail after I bite into one. 

Aren't these little miniature watermelons cute?  Except they aren't watermelons.  And no, I didn't get any.  If you have tried them, do tell. 

I am addicted to peaches and blueberries with muesli this year.  Or peaches and blueberries with yogurt and granola.  And sometimes when that isn't enough peaches in a day, I slice more peaches and top them with a whisper of whipped cream and have them for dessert after dinner.  A taste so good, the memory will carry you through until pumpkin season.   

yogurt on peaches for breakfast

I dearly hope you have fresh peaches available where you are, if not, I apologize for the cravings that this post may create. 

First thing this morning at the farmers market I saw this lady, giving in to the natural instinct to sniff a fresh peach.

She apologized for messing up my photo.  Then I told her SHE made the photo and asked her to do it again.  Which she did. 

The blackberries in the morning sun and a gorgeous orange tomato were the next things my eyes fell on.  

And then, I spotted her.

And her sister.

And I wanted to say "I haven't seen my great nieces and nephews for awhile would it be OK if I gave you each a giant squeezer hug?"  But I did not.  I just asked to take their photo and their cute mom was most obliging. 

Don't you love the table cloth under these flowers?  Not to mention that fabulous, rusted, bottle-carrier the jars are displayed in. 

This watermelon grower was counting up his sales.  Hoping he had enough for whatever it is he is planning to buy with the earnings.   Bike?  Computer?  I don't know what 12 year old boys want/need/dream about buying. 

Last stop for the morning was to get my peaches. 

I came home fully prepared to have to toss my breakfast peach in a skillet with a sprinkle of brown sugar to soften it up before topping it with yogurt and granola.

But I took a bite and found the texture and taste to my liking, exactly as it was.  I haven't done yogurt on peaches for breakfast before.  But I will be doing it again.  Tomorrow.  And actually every single day until these peaches are gone. 

Then it was time to move on to the red pepper, Anaheim pepper, and kale.

All chopped up, with a can of black beans added, along with a vinaigrette with cumin and garlic.  Lunch for the coming week done.  Check. 

Then I moved on to the porch-sitting part of Saturday.  Looking through recipe books.  Tomorrow is Lemon Bar Sunday.  In case you didn't know.  Get your engines started. 

a combination between a green bell pepper and dandelion greens

Tomatoes were well represented at the market today.  Heirlooms.  Big, beautifully irregular, with cracks and such.

I went for the ox heart heirloom below.  Front and left.  BLT's are on the menu tonight.  First time this summer. 

It was 70 degrees and sunny this morning.  Unheard of in July in Kansas.  The perfect weather for a dress, apron, and hat.  

The peaches were also looking good today. 

Those will have to wait until next week to come home with me.  The basket was too full by the time I spotted them. 

It's important to only buy what you can cook AND eat in a week.

I was intrigued by the bitter melons.  The farmer selling them told me they were like a combination between a green bell pepper and dandelion greens.  Say what?  Will give you the 4-1-1 on this new-to-me food item, as soon as I figure out what to do with it.  I only bought one. 

Gosh it was good to be back at "my" market after a 2 week hiatus.  Beginning Saturday with good people always gets the weekend off to a great start.   

a perfect moment of simple happiness

Before I head to the farmers market in the morning, here are a few glimpses from the market on Lummi island, as well as some of Charlotte and her fresh flower stand, located (handily) one turn up the road from our cottage on the island.

We stopped on our first night on the island and every few days after that.  The Shasta daisy's are like mutants there.  Big, white, gorgeous, standing straight up on sturdy stems in large groupings. 

One evening, after our 2nd our 3rd stop, Charlotte came out from her garden to chat.  "Six" came with her. 

She and her family have been on this land for 50 years.  She was kind enough to answer all my questions and we discussed the differences in growing flowers on the island and in Kansas. 

I had never seen or heard of Godetia before.  Stunning. 

Oh I do love a bouquet of sweet peas.  Almost as much as I loved the brown sugar short bread we bought from these two at the farmers market and that pretty pottery mug.  Which I did not buy because I already have way too many.  But that did not stop me from admiring it.  We did also get a little carton of the most delicious raspberries ever.  It was a small market, nothing like the one in Lawrence.  Enjoyable, none the less. 

For the rest of my life, this image of the sign for Charlotte's flowers, will call to mind a perfect moment of simple happiness. Happy weekend all.  Hope your Saturday and Sunday are filled with many good moments.  No matter what you are doing.   

little red flowers with the white things sticking up in the middle

Since I am "zinnia rich" these days, I enjoyed getting a totally different bouquet from Madeline (the zinnia wizard) at the market last weekend.  Lord help me these little red flowers with the white things sticking up in the middle are amazing!  If anyone knows what they are, please do enlighten me. 

In combination with the red and white snapdragons the whole thing was pretty spectacular.

And the gomphrena!  They are on the list of seeds for next year. 

So many flowers to get better acquainted with.  But now I am off to finish packing.  Then dive into bed.  Sister and I are meeting up in Seattle tomorrow morning to head up to Lummi Island for 10 days of laughing, exploring, star-gazing, drawing, painting, and who knows what else.  In the event that WiFi is limited, I will be posting on Instagram.  Sweet dreams and happy weekend!

a hot time in the old town tonight

Yellow flowers, in all makes and models, were front and center at the Farmers Market on Saturday in Lawrence.

Blackberries, cherry tomatoes, and the cutest summer squash you ever saw in your life were also available to buy.

This industrious farmer in training was bagging up sweet corn as fast as she could.  Please note that her necklace was not slowing her down one little bit. 

But, lets get back to the flowers.  Conversation overheard as I was walking up to look at all of them....  "THESE are much more important than vegetables".

A mixed bouquet of yellow was just what I needed.   I couldn't decide between three different varieties.  So I did what any sensible person would do - and bought all three. 

Seriously, they were 3 for ten dollars.  It was clearly a best buy. 

I am off to saute these beauties with garlic and parsley - side dish to the smoked brisket and potato salad Chris is making.  We are gearing up to watch this documentary on the History channel tonight about Amelia Earhart.   As dad would say "it's gonna be a hot time in the old town tonight!" 

but what fun would that be?

For me, there is as much enjoyment in trying to figure out what to do with my farmers market buys, as actually going to the market, and hanging with my people.  This week Nancy brought a shredded carrot salad to work from Andre's, a KC favorite lunch spot.  It was completely delicious.  All about the carrots with a bit of parsley and a very light dressing that stayed in the background.  I knew I was going to try and copy it. 

After washing, peeling, and shredding (I wasn't sure if using the food processor was a good idea or not, but it worked perfectly), I chopped the parsley and got to work on a dressing. 

I had looked in all my cookbooks to find something similar to use as a guide, but came up empty.  Until I searched on-line and found this.  Which was delightful reading by the way even if you don't want the recipe. 

In the end, Chris and I both found the salad good.  Not great.  I added some chopped cashews on top because I think cashews and carrots go together well.  The lemon juice was too acidic for my liking - the next time I am going to try a champagne vinegar, I will not add the tiny touch of dijon, I am going to substitute honey for the sugar, and add maybe a tablespoon of creme fraiche.  Alternately, I could go to Andre's and see if they sell the dressing for the salad and use it.  But what fun would that be?  

I have a sixth sense about these things

Today was an exceptionally good morning at the market.  It was sunny and 64 degrees at 7:10 am when I pulled into my parking spot.  The one that says "reserved for Carol" in red letters.  In my mind. 

Madeline and I got caught up on everything that has happened in each others worlds since we saw each other last summer.  I like having a 16 year old zinnia-growing friend. 

Cabbages, beets,and kohlrabi were on display.  Plus giant hanging garlic.

I bought cucumbers from an extremely cute red-headed girl with a very sweet smile, and flowers with a flag from Karen to kick off the 4th of July decorating. 

When I arrived at the Mellowfields Farm booth, I was just in time to get the last head of lettuce.  And my usual kale, and an amazing basket of green beans.    

Right when I was getting ready to leave I spotted these two.   Such friendly faces and a great sense of style. 

They don't know it yet but we might be destined to be friends.   I have a sixth sense about these things. 

since I haven't figured out how to eat flowers for lunch, yet

This week it was ALL about the flowers at the farmers market.  And the really nice people selling them. 

I have it on the highest authority that we are at this moment, and for the next several weeks, in the height of flower season right here in Lawrence.

I plan to take full advantage, and fill all the available spaces in my life with blooms. 

Mere photos can not do justice to the abundance at the market this week.  All colors and textures were on display.

For the record, I did buy other stuff as well.  Since I haven't figured out how to eat flowers for lunch, yet.

And one last thing... you could get some therapy for your back at the market this week too.

Conventional or unconventional methods available.  At your own risk of course.  

good value for your money

The things that I like best about this weeks bouquet from the farmers market, in no particular order are:  they fit well in the Ken Klostermeyer pottery pitcher, the flowers rise up to meet the fabric pom poms hanging over the table, the amazing blues, the bright yellows, the fact that no one will notice a hole in your tablecloth with flowers like that to look at, and finally that every time I look at them they make me happy. 

That's what I call good value for your money. 

 

my refrigerator is full of greens

There were lovely flowers to celebrate my return to the farmers market after a two week absence, plus blueberries from my favorite blueberry growing family. 

Madeline's zinnias have also returned to the market.   The very essence of the colors of summer. 

Conversations were happening.  I think these two were talking about how to flip omeletts or it could have been a friendly debate regarding the preferred method of boiling eggs. 

There were some lovely onions, which reminds me I have not made any pickled cucumbers and red onions yet this year.

I saw these angel wing begonias and broke my vow NOT to do any this year after the past two years where they have looked good for about 6 or 8 weeks and then gone down the tubes.

If any of you are angel wing begonia experts do give me your advice.  I have tried to be especially mindful not to over-water, but maybe that is it?  I have always had them in pots on my front porch where they get a bit of morning sun but shade in the very hottest part of the day.   

Couples had not stopped holding hands in my absence, and cute girls are still bringing their pups with them as meander through the booths.   Which makes me very happy. 

Basket contents above.  My refrigerator is full of greens and I am glad to report that in Lawrence Kansas, all is right with the world again.

peonies first, safety second

Eyes were on the sky Saturday morning at the farmers market. 

For extremely good reasons.  Wind, wind, and wind!

It was literally "blowin' up a storm".  Which we are used to in Kansas.

Feet were on tent poles, canopy saving moves were being made, and all hands were on deck to avoid umbrella disasters. 

Right when I got to Mimi's booth her sign came clattering down, and it was time to head home.  When I described in dramatic detail (sound effects included) the experience to Chris he said "well it's a good thing you came home when you did...  safety first".  To which I replied "no, actually it's peonies first... safety second". 

Happily, Karen was there this morning so I could make my purchase.  About an hour after I got home things blew over in my neighborhood and I went out on the front porch for coffee.  While I was sipping I came upon this great read, which I pass along in case you would enjoy reading it with your morning coffee tomorrow! 

all the sunshine I needed was right here in these buckets

It was overcast and cool on Saturday at the farmers market.  Weather does not deter diehards from coming.  Those of us who need greens and strawberries and conversation.

This is Nora, I came upon her as she was licking what I thought was frosting off a cookie.  Turns out it was hummus off a cucumber slice.  She won the best dressed prize for her winning combination of boots and jacket. 

Purple daikon radishes are pretty!  Almost as lovely as the beets.

I roasted the beets and put them in my kale salad this week, along with grated carrots and raisins.  The beet greens got wilted along with spinach and oriental greens.  If you haven't eaten cooked greens before, try them sometime.   I love a nice crunchy salad as much as the next guy, but a big old pot of cooked greens is hard to beat.  

This is Mimi.  I walked right by her and then without breaking my stride, did a U turn after reading her sign.  I did not think twice about selecting peach over blackberry for my pie.  It's going to work on Monday.  Palliative care nurses know about life being short.  Maybe we will start having dessert for breakfast every Monday.   Or maybe one Monday a month while Mimi is making pies. 

There might not have been any sun in the sky on Saturday morning, but all the sunshine I needed was right here in these buckets. 

 And you better believe I brought plenty home with me. 

their finale is something quite spectacular

This weeks bouquet.  Because I KNOW you want to see it.  From every angle possible. 

Even their finale is something quite spectacular to behold. 

what jumped into my basket at the market this week

The first strawberries at the farmers market are ALWAYS a treat.  Especially so this year, when our Spring weather has been uncooperative with sudden cold snaps right when it's time for picking.   Every single one of these was perfection.  Nary a dud in the bunch.  AND red all the way through.  I am hoping for an equally good basket next week. 

In addition to great tunes and a spectacular mounding of radishes, there were lots of tomatoes to choose from this week.  Except we are going to have to wait until we get home from vacation this year to start ours.  We don't want to plant and then leave them on their own for a week before they get a good foundation.  It's good to experiment.  That's what I am telling myself anyway. 

There was no shortage of pretty flowers this week, as well as a cute boy carrying his hand-made ninja doll with orange yarn hair in his mini baby carrier.  It's important to have your hands free in case your mom needs you to hold a cookie at the market.  And quick! can one of you advise me on what to make with mustard greens? 

Fern + impatience + begonia + super cool coleus = award for best Mothers Day flowers that will last on the porch all summer long. 

Speaking of colorful beauty... how about this?  There is something so wonderful about a grouping of well loved threads, all mixed together, waiting to be stitched into who knows what for sure. 

This basket belongs to Pam from Prairie Found Farms, creator of gourd garlands and many beautiful hand made items.   One of these Saturdays I am going to pull up a chair and just watch her stitch.  For hours. 

Here is what jumped into my basket at the market this week.  I love unpacking it, thinking about how it will all be used this week. 

There is nothing that beats a bag of tender freshly picked lettuce for salads with dinner.  Unless of course, it happens to be the first kale salad of the season that you are taking for lunch every day this week. 

cute girls getting started early on a tradition of Saturday morning at the market

The Lawrence Farmers market is as much about the people I see there, as it is about the things I buy there.  Like this young couple from Leavenworth.  Who I hadn't seen before, but my eyes were drawn to the oriental greens they had on sale, and then to the name of their farm, and finally to this farmer who clearly cares about what he is selling and wants me to enjoy it. 

And my friend from Pendleton's farm whose name I don't know, but is always smiling, and helped me pick out a blue false indigo for my garden. 

Or this couple whose peonies had my name written all over them.

Or the guitar player with the soulful, strong voice, who I could have sat and listened to all morning.

Then there are all the people who I don't talk to but I try to imagine what they are talking about. 

And I haven't even mentioned all these cute girls getting started early on a tradition of Saturday morning at the market.

I came home with a full basket and that extremely corny, good feeling inside that comes from connecting with your people.  On a weekend morning.  When the sun is shining. 

which one is the spinach?

Sometime, in your life, I hope you get the chance to go out into a field and pick asparagus.  And if, while you are there, you get to see a girl in a sun bonnet, well so much the better. 

A work commitment kept me from my appointed rounds at the farmers market on Saturday. 

So I was pretty happy to be able to go out to Pendleton's Market and get my weekly produce.  It's amazing to see asparagus just popping up out of the ground.

Initially you might wonder how you could possibly fill up a basket.

But you can, in no time at all.   It's a family affair, and if you want, you can also take a tractor ride out to the field and Mr. Pendleton will school you in the fine art of picking. 

There were all sorts of things growing in the field and "along about July" they will have 9 different kinds of potatoes ready for digging.  Raise your hand if you've always wanted to try that.

We made a stop at the tent for greens too.  My hands were flying through the spinach, chard, and bok choy.

Then I came home and soaked and stemmed and chopped and lunch for the week was prepared.

I loved listening to these kids ask "which one is the spinach?" and "is that lettuce?"  Such a great experience for them.

In addition to all that gastronomic goodness, they most definitely have treats for the eyes at Pendleton's.  If you are into succulents, they have a great selection and some wonderful ideas for how to put them together.  And don't even get me started on the combinations of flowers put together in pots.

P.S.  did I mention I got to pet a kitty?  Pure bliss.