Tall Tales from Kansas

the best of local farmers and makers

Since I did not make it to the farmers market today, the last one of the regular season, I present highlights from the last year. Some of my favorite moments from trips to the market. The people, the flowers, the produce, the vibe. The total experience. 

I wimped out today knowing some of my favorite vendors would not be there because of the cold temperatures. This has been another great year at the market, for all the reasons you see in the photos. There always seems to be something I wasn't expecting, a moment of connection, inspiration for creative endeavors, and of course the best of local farmers and makers. 

The holiday market is December 14th at the Douglas County Fairgrounds. Always a good time, with lots of opportunities to get some  holiday shopping done. If you are into that sort of thing. 

butternut squash to roast for the Thanksgiving salad perhaps

These wee lambs at the Farmers market on Saturday were over-the-top cute. Seriously, a whole flock of them should go into my pygmy forest knitted tree collection. Ideas are good. The more the better. Reflection before action is called for though. 

All the fall produce was out in abundance. Apple bread pudding anyone? Apples chopped up with oatmeal, topped with yogurt and apple butter for breakfast?

Yes to radishes for salads. 

My friend Thuy from Liquid Garden made sure I had all the information about where to get protein balls and cold pressed juice during the winter months ahead when there will be no farmers market. 

A butternut squash to roast for the Thanksgiving salad perhaps? 

These looked perfect for BLT's but Chris has a plan for meatloaf, mashed potatoes, and succotash for supper tonight. 

The usual brown butter, apple cider, muffins were swapped out for cake this year. Extra pieces were purchased to go into the freezer. The buttery, cinnamon, apple, deliciousness will be most welcome in February. 

Admiring the knitting of others is a treat, and of course made me realize it was time to get some new dryer balls. 

Another good week at the market. Since I will be out of town next week it may be the last of the season. There is one the Saturday before thanksgiving though, and if all the stars line up I may get there.   

If any of you locals plan to attend the holiday market it's on Saturday December 14th this year. It's being held at the Douglas County Fairgrounds Pavilion (1930 Harper St.). Under cover but out of doors so dress warmly. 

I hope I see you there!

if we could go somewhere and play with kittens

All the leaves in the parking lot swirled and blew overnight and ended up creating a lovely carpet at the Moon on the Meadow booth at the farmers market today. It was spectacular. The best part was listening to a man who was examining them and calling out the names of the trees they came from.

As I listened there was plenty of time to examine all the items on display. Starting with the flowers and ending up with that amazing purple-ish bok choy. Ooh it made me want asian stir fry with some white rice topped with sesame seeds and green onions on the side. 

How about a squash primer complete with names today? 

I ran into my turkey trot friends while I was looking at the squash. They are the ones who go to their daughter's in Chicago every year and participate in the Turkey Trot 5K. 

The produce was plentiful this morning. It won't be for long. The numbers of vendors are dwindling, threat of rain, end of season fatigue (is that a thing), plus it's still kind of dark at 7:30 am when the market opens. Lordy next week it will be even darker. I better bring a flashlight. 

 

Warning!!! Cute overload below. Seriously. Can you even stand it? These 2 sisters were lined up for juice from Thuy of Juice Garden. I wanted to throw all my stuff on the ground, get on my knees and hug them. Then see if we could go somewhere and play with kittens and talk about anything they wanted to talk about. Oh those smiles.

I settled for some juice and then moved on to get a basket of apples followed by a piece of pumpkin spice cake. 

Another perfectly perfect market morning. 

P.S. public service announcement - 1900 Barker's (most excellent bakery here in Lawrence) special bread of the month is cranberry almond. OHHHH does it ever make good toast. If you are in town you might want to swing by and grab a loaf. 

a successful market morning

How cute are these little painted pumpkin gourds? Yep. That's what I said too when I saw them. Ridiculously cute.  I got one last year and it's back on the porch again. Still looking as shiny and bright as last year. It makes me happy every time I walk by it and Lordy can't we use all the tiny sparks of joy we can get?  

There are still flowers for sale - these purple ones (in the daisy family?) are so pretty. 

There was still a nice selection of the beautiful gray/green pumpkins available. Talk about smile inducing. 

The folks at the information booth were getting right into the spirit of Halloween. 

Most of the vendors have treats for the trick or treaters. I LOVED her costume plan - no fuss, no muss, throw it on and go. Goal: acquisition of treats. 

I almost got more pumpkins but really have just the right amount at this moment. But the shapes, the colors, the variety! So tempting.

I loved getting a preview of what is to come at the Holiday Farmers Market in December. I am a fan of the old fashioned Christmas ornaments. 

Same goes for the Snickers cake (being a fan). I could think of not one single reason not to get a piece. 

In sharp contrast to the costume previously shown, this little miss put some time and serious effort into getting herself fixed up for trick or treat at the market. Goal: Dress up is the best part!

I roasted that butternut squash as soon as I got home, washed the lettuce, refreshed the gourds that were looking faded, and called it a successful market morning.

I can stand them a lot

Oh I do love bittersweet. Bittersweet with dried sunflowers, okra, berries, leaves, lotus pods, gourds, and decorative corn is just the things that all fall decorating dreams are made of isn't it?

But let me buckle down for a minute and get about the business of the market.  Today I was on a hunt for green beans to go with the pork chop and stuffing that Chris is making on Sunday. These were perfect. Not too fibrous looking and no rusty spots. 

Right next to them were these Jarrahdale pumpkins that made me gasp. Literally. A like-minded woman working said "YES - they are beautiful aren't they?" This is what I like about the market. Being among people who understand the need to gasp at beautiful pumpkins. But did you also know what these were called? I didn't.  I looked it up when I got home. They are a cross between a Blue Hubbard and a Cinderella pumpkin. From Australia. Sigh. 

I could have bought a jar of fresh pickles but with the bundles of dill right there and perfect cucumbers how could I not make one more batch?

Get a load of this color will you? 

I encountered these 2 while they were on their mission to get a cinnamon roll. 

More dried flowers on fresh little pumpkins/gourds. I just can't stand how cute they are. I mean I CAN stand them. I can STAND them a lot. I wanted to buy all of them.

Instead I settled for more dahlias since my little pumpkin from several weeks ago is still looking 100% fabulous. 

You know I got a piece of this cake. For those of you who may wonder how I can eat so much cake... I do not want to look back on my life at some point in the future and regret that I did not eat enough cake. Therefore, every season, spring, summer, fall, winter, are seasons when cake must be enjoyed for no specific reason other than you are here and cake is here.  

The haul of the week is below. I am excited to try a new protein ball with almond butter, coconut, and cranberries this week from Thuy at Juice Garden. 

On a totally NOT market related subject... did you see Judy with Renée Zellweger in the title role? It came out way back in 2019. A lifetime ago right? Well, it's on Netflix right now and Chris and I saw it tonight. Hard to watch but wow Renée Zellweger did a bang up job. 

in this case staring is a good thing

You knew I was going to post more photos of these dahlias didn't you? How could I not. At three days in and counting, they are holding up quite well. 

They pair up very nicely with the zinnias and gourds. 

I stare at them, lost in the precision, admiring the orange, cream, pink, yellowish, shades that make up the whole.

In this case, staring is a good thing.

I pick up the camera frequently as I sit at the table or walk by. Absolutely certain that I have not yet captured THE photo that will show them off to their absolute best. Maybe this angle, in this light?

I shall continue on in my mission. But leave you to your own endeavors now. 

carefully steered through the aisles by their fearless leader

Jaw dropping gorgeous dahlias were my morning hello at the farmers market today. Can you even believe the amazing structure of these plants? 

The sunflowers were holding their own in the show stopper category as well.  But oh my the dahlias.

I asked the folks in line for the slow rise doughnuts to give me a wave as I walked through their line. Such great smiles! I do love a happy responsive group at the market.  

Radishes were grabbed along with a bag of the lettuce blend at Mellowfields Farms. Chris is making baked ziti for dinner tonight and nothing is better than a simple lettuce, radish, celery, red onion, salad dressed with a light vinaigrette on the side. 

I saw her and that great giraffe bag she carries last week. This week I got brave and asked to take her photo. She was down with it. 

Ditto for her and her cute little doggie. 

Mums, apples, and death by chocolate cake rounded out the list of things that caught my eye today. 

Oh and this family, carefully steered through the aisles by their fearless leader - Mr. Blue Crocs.  

This market trip ended where it began. With those amazing dahlias. 

I spent every cent I had with me today on what you see below plus 3 big pumpkins for the front of the house.  

There is nothing more fun than sprinkling a few pumpkins here and there on the porch when I get home from the market. Then making a pot of coffee and sitting to look at it all. 

heavy basket season

It was another glorious fall morning at the farmers market today. This little car full of succulents is just the ticket to bring anyone out of whatever worry is on their mind.

If that doesn't do it, well surely the fall flowers will?

And if a third try is needed... STRAWBERRIES + a return of mellowfield's lettuce mix. 

Below are the 2 candidates for best T-shirt at the market. You get to vote. 

I was not able to pass by the gourds today. Which is why it is officially heavy basket season at the market. Gourds + a butternut squash + 2 more jars of Mrs. Peter's applesauce for the pantry - what could I do?

Thuy told me about "kale-me" juice last week at the market - WHAT? Who knew kale in a juice could be so delicious. Some days there is not much time for lunch at work, but there is always time for a juice while working on notes. I picked up another bottle this week. 

If you have juice for lunch it's an automatic yes for dessert after dinner. It's a rule. 

I loved this kid's hand warming method and great grin. 

These 2 get the prize for happiest faces at the market this morning.

I had to take my basket to the car, put it in the back, grab the credit card and go back for the wreath and ginormous pot of mums with a decorative cabbage, coleus, and celosia. 

I know I could have waited another week, but what if there were no more? 

Besides, today just seemed like the right day to "fall-ify" the front porch. Which I did, after the lettuce was washed and the gourds admired. 

I would also like to report that when I was carrying the giant pot and the wreath back to my car I had several people ask "do you need help?" I think it's mostly because people in Lawrence are nice, not that I looked like I was about to bust a gut. 

she is destined for a creative path in life

On a cloudy morning, with intermittent drizzles, in middle to late September, it is becoming more difficult to get enough light to take a decent picture at 7:30 in the morning. That did not stop me from trying... and from circling back after my basket was full to get a few more shots. 

I decided to start with the cake this week, to be sure I did not forget to put it in my basket after I paid for it, like last week.  I don't think I have tried the orange and honey cake previously. Shame on me. It is a lovely combination. 

The red-haired umbrella twirler caught my eye early on. Kids know how to have fun. 

This inquisitive 5 year old had on my favorite rain gear. She investigated carefully the contents of my basket and asked me what each thing was. She told me she like to pick things up and that's what her bag was for. Then she proceeded to jump in a puddle.  I feel certain she is destined for a creative/artistic path in life. I hope I see her again. I thoroughly enjoyed our short visit. 

This pot of fall loveliness made me gasp.  It's not time for mums on my porch yet... but maybe I need to get some anyway? Especially when they are combined like this!

A few heirlooms were selected from this sea of tomatoes. Cherokee purples this week. You might not think so, but in addition to pairing well with bacon and lettuce, they elevate a sloppy Joe to a new level of deliciousness.

Gourds for bird houses or just gourds to hang from trees because they are so cool looking.

I caught these two right when I was leaving, they were starting to load up their bags. I approved of the hoody rain protection plan. 

Here is what came home this week. I was excited about another week of local strawberries. 

Once it was unpacked I whipped up a batch of cucumbers and onions with some fresh dill I had in the refrigerator. I thought it might be my last batch for the summer, but they turned out so good with the fresh dill that I may need to keep making them until the cucumbers stop producing. 

Good stuff. 

it's here

It's official. Fall is here. I don't care what the calendar, or the temperatures, or anything else says. The arrival of fall squash/pumpkins/gourds at the farmers market means it's here. 

The wartiest of the warty ones are my favorites. There aren't many warty things you can say that about. In fact, pumpkins may be it. 

Meanwhile, these sunflowers are so lovely.

A new find this week was Mrs. Peter's applesauce! Now I am anticipating the first pork roast of the fall. With some carrots and potatoes cooked alongside, maybe some good pan gravy. Applesauce and pork are a favorite combination. 

Cute family alert! Holy crap I didn't even notice the way that baby was holding his hand on his squishy cheeks until I was reviewing the photos.

Cake! I got so distracted by looking at it that I turned to take a picture after I paid and walked away without my slice or my corn cookies. Did not notice until I got home. I turned myself right around and drove back where they were keeping it safe, knowing I would be back.

This photo does not do justice to the vibrancy of the mums and asters. We just do our best. 

I am trying to hold off on gourds for a few more weeks... 

The thing that was most unusual for a fall day at the market was the appearance of STRAWBERRIES!  I thought my eyes were playing tricks on me when I spotted them. 

When I asked this very nice man where they were from, he told me they grew them and followed that with "my wife babies that patch like you wouldn't believe". I told him I appreciated him giving credit where credit was due and I hope his wife reads this. 

My haul for the week. 

Oh lord these strawberries were good. Sweet, perfect, little nuggets of goodness. 

Maybe they will have more next Saturday? Fingers crossed. 

in case you were wondering...

My squeals of delight were kept on the inside when I saw these mini pumpkins at the farmers market on Saturday.  Same with the bucket of marigolds. Marigolds always put me in the mood to construct a "dia de los muertos" altar in honor of all my departed family members. 

Karen Pendleton is knocking it out of the park with the fall wreaths this year. I mean seriously get a load of this one will you?!?!?!?!

She was enjoying her bagel as she strolled. I am always impressed by those coordinated enough to walk, talk, eat, and shop. Not to mention smile (with nothing in her teeth) when I asked to take her picture.

These squash and eggplant were beautiful in the morning sun. 

Raise your hand if you have heard of mashed potato squash. Apparently you can roast it up, mash it, add milk, butter, salt, pepper, and voila! just like mashed potatoes. 

We are still on a serious BLT + turkey kick at our house. I like a sliver of turkey between the toast and the tomato to keep the bread from getting too soggy with all that juice from the tomatoes. 

These 2 were having a real good time, exploring at the market. I love their wild morning hair.

This week's cake - lemon poppyseed with a raspberry fondant. 

I snagged a bag of salad mix. With cooler temps we should be getting more great greens in the weeks to come. 

As I was walking out I snapped this budding thespian atop his dad's shoulders. His sister, who brought her blanket for warmth, is clearly used to his shenanigans. 

My haul this week...

My favorite pumpkin from photo #1 was still there as I was leaving the market, so I of course grabbed it. 

Now all I need to do is get a great fall candle to put on the table to go with it. I don't know about you all, but when I sense the change in seasons from summer to fall, it gives me this wonderful boost of endorphins as I anticipate all that this implies. 

so I did

Dried flower arrangements are a sure sign of the coming of fall. The colors in this one are fantastic. The slightly minty green, the "berryish" red, along with all the variations of tan are unexpected and perfect. Not ready for full on fall but heading in that direction. 

Lunch box orange peppers? Apparently so named because they can be easily tucked in with your mid-day meal. Well they caught my eye for sure.

This caladium with the light coming through at the perfect angle, says nothing about fall to me, except if you had a room in your house with lots of windows and a Spanish tiled floor where you put your plants at the end of the season to keep them over for the winter. If I had one of those, I might start this right now. In that very room. The one with a big comfy chair for reading and dreaming in. 

I did not get mums get but only because my geraniums are still looking so good. I hope they have more of this color in the next month though. I love it. 

Almost as much as I loved this little boy with his dad. Carrying his own bag that he would fill with who knows what. Whatever he thinks looks like "the thing" he needs.

Like maybe some of these apples? Which by the way are delicious. With a sandwich for lunch, or on their own with peanut butter for any meal of the day. 

The sunflowers are so pretty right now. I also happen to love the design on the stickers from "Moon on the Meadow farm". The tuberoses are still available as well. 

Oh yes to the box of tomato seconds. Especially the backward "C" in the bottom left corner. Heirlooms are the best. 

These two were talking about something important, I didn't catch any part of the conversation because they would have wondered why I was eavesdropping, so I snapped the photo and kept walking. 

The bags of arugula made me very happy. 

Here is a shot of this weeks goodies. More bacon, lettuce, tomato, turkey, mayo, toast, sandwiches this week. They were so good last week. I also had to get some of the corn cookies from Chonky Sweets and Eats. 

Which did not stop me from also getting a slice of banana cake. OK, may I didn't have to, but it seemed important when I walked by to get both. So I did.

I did not say "howdy pardner"

There were raincoats AND shorts at the market on Saturday morning. I had an umbrella in my basket and a rain hat on my head. 

He rolled out of bed, threw on the crocs, and went as he was. I approve. 

We will be having turkey clubs this week with one of these big, juicy, amazing, flavor-filled, heirloom tomatoes.

I did not say "howdy pardner" when I saw this guy enjoying his piece of watermelon. But I wanted to. Instead I just asked to take his picture and he was happy to comply. 

There was a truck bed full of corn right next door to him. 

I grabbed a couple of these Italian sweet peppers even though I am not 100% sure what I will do with them yet... other than add them to a salad I mean. Anything can be added to a salad to spice it up. In my book. 

Will you look at these bottle openers and ice cream scoop. Who needs one for Christmas? 

There were colorful bouquets of flowers to brighten up every room in your house, and/or delight anyone you might want to buy one for.

Here is what came home in my basket.  

The cake was Pina colada this week. Packed with coconut and pineapple, it was moist and very, very, very, tasty.

Take my word for it. 

I don't think so

I followed these two into the farmers market today at 7:30 am on the dot, sunny, 70 something degrees, pleasant, a most perfect Saturday morning. On days like this don't you wanna just smile and close your eyes and do some kind of freeze frame to bask in the goodness of this exact second?

There were big colorful celosia for sale, friends were catching up with each other, bouquets were all lined up for the taking... how to choose? 

A family having breakfast on the curb! Talk about wanting to freeze frame a moment. I love their genuine smiles and their spirits willing to go along with my request for a photo. 

But hold on! As soon as I rounded the curb there were these three. Look at those fresh faces and smiles and YES - ready to dig into their breakfast on the curb. Accompanied by pink lemonade? I think. Again they were so friendly and happy to comply with having a picture taken. 

There was okra - 2 colors in the morning sun. Plus apples! Yes, they are about 2 weeks early, but when things are ready you pick them. The farmer selling them said, "the birds say they are ready". 

There were a few more peaches at the Peters Family Farm booth and cucumbers and onion at Mellowfields farm.

Giant sunflowers were standing tall in buckets of cool water. I enjoyed watching the 2 little girls coming upon them. Such excitement on their faces. How to choose just the right one?

I snuck up to get a shot of the Slow Rise doughnuts on display. If I was going to get one, it would have to be the smoked peach and hot honey chèvre ... but the line was much more manageable at Chonky Sweets and Eats and I do recall how good the Elderberry Lemon cake was last year. 

This little "posey bouquet" at Moon on the Meadow was the sweetest thing ever. 

Here is what I came home with this week. I may have gotten too many lemon/ginger/cayenne immunity shots... but can you have too much healthy goodness? 

I don't think so. 

it was fabulous

It's tuberose time at the farmers market in Lawrence. Tall, beautiful, fragrant, impressive. The Pendletons also had a colorful array of peppers this morning at their spot... but the wreath! Oh the wreath, it was a stunner. It made me think of fall, and reminded me how much the birds liked the dried sunflower head I left for them on the porch through the winter. This year maybe a wreath? 

The little tomatoes... in all the shapes and colors were splendid. 

This fella got a great explanation from Thuy (Juice Garden) regarding all the varieties of juices that were available... then his mom bought a 5 pack and they were on their way. The explanation made me re-think my original selections. I was going to go with the pineapple/orange but ended up with the beet/carrot/lemon/green apple/ginger/parsley plus a strawberry/watermelon. Thuy also told me how good the Turmeric water with lemon and ginger is hot once it starts to get cold. 

How beautiful are these tomatillos? Especially with the peppers in the background. I must remind Chris it is time for a batch of his green enchiladas that incorporate tomatillos. 

I was delighted to see these peaches today at the Peter's Farm booth.  Mrs. Peters told me that they got these from Illinois because there are NO local peaches this year. She explained to me how the buds on the trees set in late January or early February and we got a really cold snap at that time, which put an end to the local peaches in this area for the year. I appreciated them having the one's from Illinois. Summer without peaches just isn't right. 

They had all the onions at this booth. Green, red, white, yellow, shallots. 

Rainbow carrots sounded like they would be good roasted ... again. Two baskets please. 

How about these delicate tiny bouquets? The perfect thing to go on the tray with your pot of tea and biscuits for afternoon tea. 

Hot dog girl was strolling around this morning.  Keeping things on the up and up.  She's a superhero in disguise. 

Yes of course to the peach cake. 

I did not get these succulents that look like rocks, but I did get a small anacampseros which I will show you as soon as I add it to the post of succulents out back. But seriously, how darling are the these? 

Here is what came home with me. I went a little overboard at Lebanese Flower. Falafel, tzatziki, lebanese beans, baklava, plus a couple of cucumbers to go with from Mellowfields farm, right around the corner. Actually, along with the roasted carrots this is a complete meal. 

After I got this all put away, I heated up the Turmeric/ginger/lemon water and sat on the front porch with my hands wrapped around my mug. It was fabulous. 

anywhere you want to put it

The farmers market booth bosses were on duty to answer questions today, all decked out in their tomato outfit. Looking good and prepared for the possibility of light drizzle.  I am not certain what their actual titles are so I promoted them. 

Oh sweet mother of flowers! The gladiolus. Spectacular. I don't want to be buried when I die, nor do I want a service of any kind, but if someone wanted to drop a gladiolus on my body before putting me out on the prairie to decompose, that would be ok. I am partial to these colors. 

The fennel looked healthy and had me thinking about a dinner party where I was served some kind of a light cream soup flavored with fennel that had a medium sized crostini floating in it, that one could pick up and munch after every last drop was scraped from the bowl. Crisp white wine on the side. 

I liked this flower arrangement almost as much as the gladioli stems.

She preferred zinnia's and who can blame her for that?

All manner of produce was on display, patty pan squash, peppers, rainbow chard, beets, carrots.

As I passed the line for the Slow Rise Doughnuts - always a line here... I came upon these three, waiting patiently. 

These 2 were enjoying their biscuits and gravy sitting right on the curb. Nothing better. 

Sunflowers are at their peak. These 2 varieties were especially eye-catching today.

Here is what came home with me today. 

Plus this plant and the one I was eyeing last week. They are going to live in the hot sun in a pot on my back deck. Replacing some things that are not doing well in the pot I put them in. It's always a test to see what will and will not do well out back.

No test was needed to know the strawberry lemonade cake was a keeper. Anywhere you want to put it.

Happy Saturday from the farmers market in Lawrence

If you are the sort that likes to make your own flower arrangement, there was plenty of raw material for this today at the farmers market. The Larkspur and Queen Anne's lace seem like a good match together. Somehow I thought Queen Anne's lace was only white. Who knew? Clearly not me. 

I

For the grab and go types, there were also plenty of arrangements to choose from. 

These bunches of flowering dill were spectacular. 

I loved the music man's outfit today. When I saw him walking in with his guitar on his back I followed until he got started so I could snap a photo. I was going to call this my favorite get-up of the day until I saw the woman below him. 

Again, perfection from head to toe. And her shoes! Swoon. 

Tomato season is clearly here. Little tomatoes, BIG tomatoes, heirloom tomatoes, all sorts of tomatoes. 

The green beans I got last week were so good I got more this week. They make a perfect lunch next to pickled cucumbers and onions, and a half of anything you want to make a sandwich out of... as long as it includes mayo. 

Because I have not finished the corn from last week I did not buy more this week... but listen, this young woman wins the prize for best smile AND braids today. 

Bourbon Brown Butter + pecans was the cake of the week. That's a yes for me. 

I think these two were comparing flowers but they could also have been talking about where they were going to meet up for coffee later. 

I could not help getting the family of the week as they walked into the market when I was leaving. I felt bad that the sun was in their eyes but LOVE how they worked it. 

Here is what came home with me today.  As soon as I got things put away I cleaned and cut up the carrots for roasting. 

I made a large container of kale, roasted carrots, black beans, raisins, and pumpkin seeds dressed with a spicy olive oil/apple cider vinegar/honey/garlic dressing. It will keep for the week which is a huge bonus. 

How beautiful are these carrots? 

In case you are wondering why no flowers were purchased... my zinnia's are going like gangbusters!

No new seeds were put out this year. Just the regular spreading of the dried heads at the end of the season and some attention to water a bit as they are emerging. I think it's just a matter of finding something that likes where I put it and is paying me back with this amazing bounty. I'll take it. 

Happy Saturday from the farmers market in Lawrence. 

three weeks with no cake from the Chonky's is too long

Everyone at the farmers market on Saturday was right where they were supposed to be. Waiting, with all their wares on display. What about these eggplants? I want a whole plate of them sliced, grilled, and drizzled with some kind of tahini dressing. Warm pita on the side. 

Every week I spy a favorite on this table. 

Oh for the love of a jelly doughnut. Sticky jam in the corners of your mouth to be licked up as the morning passes along. When I see things like this I want to press her "remember this" button. Good stuff. 

Sunflowers were front and center in the flower department. 

Sweet corn season is here. No need for anything fancy here. Drop in boiling water for 5-6 minutes, butter, salt, pepper, lots of napkins. 

I LOVED her dress and made sure to tell her so.  Who knows what that fabric is? I will have to ask my friends at Sarah's. I need a dress just like that, maybe 2 inches longer. 

Kale and spinach were selected for greens this week. 

As soon as I got home cucumbers and onions were quick pickled. Then it was time for porch sitting. 

It was good to be back at my market. Three weeks with no cake from the Chonky's is too long.

each local berry is savored

The MOST exciting thing about the farmers market today was BLUEBERRIES. Not just any blueberries. Blueberries that were picked yesterday and have been lovingly tended by the really nice lady that I bought them from, who I don't have a picture of because I was so excited about seeing the blueberries and grabbing the blueberries that I did think about taking a picture of the blueberry grower. Mea culpa.

Oh the delight of a firm blueberry that pops when you bite into it and goes perfectly will with greek yogurt and a sprinkle of granola. Tomorrow I will eat the second half of this basket on oatmeal. Unless I finish them before then. Which is entirely possible.  

There were flowers for everyone at the market today. Bouquets that could be put in a vase, edible pansies to beautify your plates of food, and stems for making your own arrangements. 

Summer squash has arrived on the scene.

I remain deeply enamored with kale and prepping salads for the whole week with it. This week's will have garbanzo beans, beets, pumpkin seeds, and a Thai peanut sort of dressing. 

How pretty is this? I love walking by this vendor and feeling like I am in California. 

I got in a Harry Nilsson frame of mind and went straight back to the early 1970's when I walked by Chonky Eats and spied the Coconut Lime cake. I applied the brakes and of course stopped for a piece. This flavor combination may be my very favorite cake in their repertoire.  

Here is my unpacked basket. 

I got busy getting the beets peeled, chopped, and put in the oven before I did anything else. Olive oil, cumin, salt, pepper, for seasoning this week. 

Then it was time to move on to the blueberries. The season is fleeting here so each local berry is savored.

Happy Saturday night to you friends!

we thought it was all very normal

I spied elephant ears as I entered the market this morning. Elephant ears! We had them all over our yard when we live at Howard AFB in the Canal Zone. Along with banana trees, geckos, kudamundi's, and all sorts of other exotic things. We thought they were all very normal. One of these was snapped up for a nice bit pot on the deck.

My favorite supplier of chili walnut dip, baklava, Lebanese bean salad, falafel, and tzatziki told me the kids were heading to Florida today. They were excited in a low key, hip, playing it cool, kind of way. 

I love the look of a hat with a scarf around the brim. She obviously knew what she was doing when she put this look together today. 

The sugar snap peas were so good last week, I did a repeat.

The twosome with the best smiles in hats and shorts today are below. 

I am giving him honorable mention for the tie dyed shirt and hat.

It was Rainbow week at the market - complete with cake. I bought a piece of this last year thinking "... ok, maybe it will be good...?" There was no second guessing this year. 

As soon as this basket was unpacked and a picture taken, the work began. 

Cake sliced into 3 pieces, wrapped/frozen. Flowers in a vase. Snap peas rinsed and ready for snacking.



Cauliflower cleaned, chopped, sprinkled with olive oil, curry powder, salt, roasted. Kale rinsed and chopped. 1 Green onion added along with dried cranberries, toasted almonds, and roasted cauliflower. My kale salads were so good last week I needed more this week. Slight change in ingredients, same dressing. So so so good. 

Then it was out to the porch to sit, rock, stare, listen to the newly hatched birds in the Japanese maple tree, sip on coffee, and be delighted with this day, this moment, this life.

caught up in the magic of performing

Sugar snap peas, asparagus, and cucumbers were my first purchases at the farmers market on Saturday. She sold them to me. She of the cool hat and winning smile. 

Beets were front and center from several vendors.

What's not to like about a pastel palette of eggs? Especially in the morning sun. 

It was at about this point that I looked up and saw a most colorful "topper". I want to be someone who throws on such a thing as I head out the door for the market. Gosh it was pretty. 

Speaking of pretty, how about those little mini heads of Romaine Lettuce? Peter Rabbit would adore them. 

Perhaps my favorite photo of the morning was of these two women. They graciously agreed to a picture and the older woman told me proudly "this is my granddaughter", while the younger woman said, "this is my grandmother from Malaysia". I loved that they were enjoying each other so much. 

I had the best time eavesdropping on these 3 as I waited in line at Juice Garden for my protein balls and juice. It was so fun to hear them talk about which juice they liked and why they were getting it, while Thuy patiently went through what the differences in each were. 

As soon as I saw these flowers I knew I would be circling back to get them. Ranunculus! The colors and sturdy shape. With just a touch of an herb and a snap dragon to round out the arrangement. 

Luckily I was not holding them when I saw him playing his harmonica. I would have dropped them. So delightful was he. Caught up in the magic of performing, in his own little world, doing his best, and looking so cute doing it. He was living his t-shirt motto fully.

Death by chocolate was the cake of the week. Yes. Yes, I did. 

I came home with a LOT this week. But with a good plan for what I was going to do with it all. Besides just eat it I mean. 

As soon as I unpacked everything, the beets and broccoli were cut up and roasted with a bit of olive oil and a pinch of curry. The kale was chopped up, raisins and celery were added, plus some red pepper that needed to be used up. After the roasting the beets and broccoli were thrown in followed by a few toasted slivered almonds. Dressing of olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, garlic, salt, cayenne pepper. Individually portioned into side salad size servings, they are ready to be pulled out of the refrigerator for dinners this week. 

And so, another delightful Saturday morning was spent at the farmers market in Lawrence Kansas. 

The End

she was hesitant about the photo but I won her over

There were these bouquets to greet me at the market on Saturday. Plus big tables of good looking green stuff - crispy, crunchy, tasty, all of it looked good. 

It's a combination of restraint coupled with taking advantage of what is in season right now that might be fleeting. 

My favorite strawberry vendor says she does not know what happened to the crop this year. She just isn't getting much. I spied these few baskets at a table but was too far back in line to score one. 

Not her though... she got all the things she wanted, balanced them carefully, and was ready to head out by 7:45. Smart shopper. 

Carrot cake was on special this week.

These amazing tender greens are so good. Last week I tried a new (for me) salad dressing. Shallots, dijon mustard, white or rice wine vinegar, salt, pepper, honey, olive oil. Oh boy it's good on tender greens. I made a second (larger) batch this week. There were no shallots at the market so I subbed some tender young onions. Delicious.

One day I want to be bold and wear a darling hat like this to the farmers market.

They win the prize for my favorite couple this week - her hair and basket + his T-shirt = WIN/WIN. 

I almost clapped when I saw her bow/headband. With those fabulous curls!!! She was hesitant about the photo but I won her over. 

Here is my haul for the week. I might have gone overboard on the lettuce but 2 bags seemed right. 

Get a load of the icing carrot complete with fresh green top on the carrot cake. 

Finally, here is the bouquet that was selected - mostly for that amazing, beautiful, fragrant, stock. 

which tastes exactly like the name says

This weekend at the farmers market in Lawrence there were big dogs and girls in dresses. Not that they go together but they were both extremely cute. 

Pretty flower bundles were available in jars or wrapped in paper. 

Bright bottles of cold press juices, beets, and jars of liquid gold honey were on display. 

These 2 had the right idea. Buying their flowers early. 

The napa cabbage and chard were catching the light just right as I walked by. 

Mothers Day succulents, already in pots, for easy gifting were waiting to be snatched up. 

How about this shopping bag? 

My eyes were drawn to the bag and the coordinating shoes initially, but then I got the whole effect when I looked up. He was really kind and patient with me as I asked him to STOP so I could do justice to his outfit.  

Cilantro, butter lettuce, tween kale, protein balls, juice, radishes, and a lovely senecio (ruby necklace maybe?) came home with me. 

And of course this piece of Caramel Latte cake. Which tastes EXACTLY like the name says. A perfect balance of coffee and caramel blended in a moist cake. Well duh, of course you say, except that so many times a cake does not taste like the name implies. I have never found that with the Chonky Eats bakers though. 

Which keeps me coming back. Each week. Resistance is futile.

absolute heart squeezer

This week at the farmers market, my very, very, very, most favorite picture was the last one I took right before getting back to the car. This absolute heart squeezer in the most perfect rain outfit ever. With the nicest mom, I might add.

Most others in attendance were using umbrellas. Which I guess has to work when we can no longer pull off the rubber boots and flowered raincoat look. 

The Pendleton's renowned asparagus in purple or green were available. I picked up a nice bunch, blanched them when I got home, squeezed lemon on them, added some to my mixed greens Saturday night along with toasted walnuts, chopped celery, and a balsamic vinaigrette. Divine. 

She needed no umbrella. I think she used to be a rubber boot - flower raincoat type. I can tell by her smile. 

This rainbow chard was beautiful. 

Next to my new friend in photo #1, comes my second favorite photo of the week. I am calling it "true love at the market".

And if that wasn't enough, as I rounded the corner, there were PEONIES! I snatched up a bunch. 

Iris were also available. 

Here's what came home with me this week. 

It's important to see that inside one of those white bags was a piece of Black Forest cake - full of moist cherries and rich chocolate flavor, it never disappoints. 

The end.

almost. not quite.

This weekend, I am working and missing the farmers market. So instead of showing you what I am not buying today, let's look at how last week's tulips held up throughout the week. 
 

I sat down at my desk at the hospital around 9am to have that perfect cup of coffee accompanied by the extra orange-cranberry scone I bought last week because I knew I would be working this week. It's almost like being at the market. Almost. Not quite. 

I am in the habit of changing the water in the vases every few days. Do I need to do this? I'm not sure, but I like the water to look clean and clear in the vases. If I like it that way, surely the flowers do too.

my reward for an excellent mornings' work

Any farmers market that begins with a table full of vases of allium for sale is bound to be a good one. This is what crossed my mind today as I entered to make my Saturday rounds.  

Yes please to a garden full of these beauties. Tall, graceful, quietly beautiful and stunning all at once. 

Soon it will be time to plan the geraniums. I hope when I go to Pendletons to make my selection in another week or so they have some of these coral/peach beauties. 

Hurray for multicolor crochet wraps on a chilly morning. NOW is the perfect time for knitted scarves, wraps, and ponchos.

I was also seriously digging her city-vibe. 

Mellowfields farm was back at the market this week. So was the Peter's family. 

I was glad to see ample choices in the tulips again this week, and helped myself to a few bunches. 

Fresh locally grown flowers from the market are one of life's greatest pleasures and I see no need not to indulge myself. 

There were meet and greets happening at the market. Conversations all around.   

The cake this week called loudly to me from Chonky Sweets and Eats.

You gotta admire a table of carrots like these. 

Upon my arrival home, I unpacked the basket, cleaned and blanched the asparagus (which turn green after they are cooked by the way). The asparagus were squeezed with lemon and popped in the refrigerator where they will be added to salads, or just eaten as is, all week. Imagine a nice slice of toast with some of that egg/avocado/cottage cheese combo on top and a few of these chopped up for extra goodness. 

Salad greens were washed and then the brown butter banana cake was gazed upon lovingly.

I sliced it into "normal" portion sizes and then I ate that banana chip off the top as my reward for an excellent mornings' work. 

oh joy

From the moment they came out of the basket and got popped into a mason jar, these tulips have been a rich burst of delicious color and texture that makes life better. 

 

The Parrot tulips are so exotic, if I close my eyes I can imagine I am in Mexico in one of those homes with thick stucco walls and open garden areas that are in the middle of the whole house and all the windows and doors are open and there are giant pots of lush ferns and flowers. (It was time for a really long run-on sentence, I don't think I have written one for a while). We could take it further with the smells of fresh tortillas wafting in from the kitchen and a radio in the distance playing some traditional Mexican music. 

We must not leave out the shorter purple or the tall straight yellow and orange tulips though. It's one of those "whole is greater than the sum of the parts" things. 

This last photo is day 6. A real stunner to the end. I think the tulips from Cooks Market will be at the Lawrence Farmers market for a few more weeks. Oh joy. 

...and it was good

I am not sure if it's because the older I get the more I cherish things, OR if it's because I have been so looking forward to this day, OR if this actually was the BEST opening day of the Lawrence Farmers market EVER. 

Seriously though... the tulips from our local grower Cook's Market. 

The lines for Slow Rise Doughnuts were in keeping with their reputation and the desire for that first fix of the season...  

There were starters to plant and radishes to go with the pimento cheese I am making for Masters Weekend. Which brother and I refer to as Holy Week. Since I feel certain Jesus loves golf, he takes this as high praise. 

These two epitomized the spirit of the market today - pure excitement + joy. 

Party dresses are always encouraged at the market. 

There was Pina Colada cake as well as cranberry orange scones. 

Oh Thuy - how I have missed you and your spectacular juices. 

There were hanging baskets of nasturtium and peppers to plant. 

Breakfast from Flory's had these two smiling. Gosh I loved her hat/dress combo. 

I got spinach and salad greens from these women. 

Oh the blooming cacti... 

There was a soulful, passionate, guitar playing singer on hand which always adds to the spirit of the market. 

Here is what came home with me. After I stored it all away and got the tulips in a vase I went and sat on the front porch and thought about all I had seen... and it was good. 

always room for a mini pumpkin

Saturday was the last day of the Lawrence farmers market for the regular season. Vendors are thinning out - less produce, cold weather, fewer shoppers... it's time to say goodbye for the year. I was really glad that I was able to snag mini pumpkins to use as part of my holiday tablescape. It's never too extravagant. We need space for people, plates, utensils, napkins, glasses - there is no extra room for anything unessential. But there is always room for a mini pumpkin. 

I was able to obtain them all from one of my favorite farm couples. 

These three were trying to decide what to have for breakfast. Sausage biscuit seemed to be in the lead, but there is not need to be hasty with such an important decision. 

I bid adieu to my favorite baklava bakers. 

As she happily waved good-bye for me she let me know that she had given some thought to a modeling career. I let her know it wasn't too late.

He was not letting the cold bother him at all. Not one bit. 

As you can see, I came home with a sizable group of items. 

Are those beeswax hive and morel mushroom candles not the cutest things you have ever seen? And with that, I conclude another year of visits to the Saturday morning farmers market. Until we meet up again, baskets in arms, at the corner of 9th and New Hampshire, on the second Saturday in April, I will endeavor to keep you entertained on this blog with other tales of mystery and intrigue. 

prize for cute dress worn at a cold November market

If you don't have a centerpiece planned for thanksgiving this year, this idea was on display at the farmers market on Saturday. Thanks Karen Pendleton! 

When I saw these sunflower heads I made a mental note to hold back 5 dollars so I could get one at the end of my shopping spree. 

I stopped to eavesdrop on Mr. Pendleton giving instructions on squash cooking.

The prize for cute dress worn at a cold November market goes to her.

This week I stopped to investigate "Wild Alive" fermented foods. I recently listened to a podcast about the microbiome and heard this is an excellent way to enhance it. I bought a few jars to try. 

One last basket of Arkansas Blacks came home with me. 

I loved her morel candles!

Check out the super cool kohlrabi. Next year I am going to figure out how to use this wonderful looking food. 

I already know how to use Black Forest cake. 

Here is my basket for the week. I am going to investigate recipes for thanksgiving for my super large butternut squash. 

As soon as that last photo was taken I washed the greens and individually wrapped the cranberry orange scones and espresso muffins from the Chonky bakers. 

Next week is the last official market of the season except for the holiday market which is December 9th from 9am to 4pm at the Douglas County Fairgrounds. Sigh. 

weird Barbie makes an appearance at the Lawrence farmers market

It was trick or treat day at the farmers market on Saturday, and even though the 35 degree temps kept some people away, it did not dampen the enthusiasm of the vendors. 

Love the face painting on her and this was the first fried egg costume I have seen.  

This fellow did not let any scary skeletons keep him from the treats.

Gloves, hats, hoodies, and jackets were the outfit of the day, as modeled by the well dressed farmer and shopper below.  

The jars of buckwheat and wildflower honey below were beautiful.  It made me want to go home and drink tea with big spoonfuls of it stirred in. 

Mrs. Peters had boxes of the most perfectly decorated fall cookies for sale.  Which would go really well with the hot tea and honey. 

I resisted the urge to buy "just one more" pumpkin ... but it was hard. They just look so good in a big grouping. 

The absolute highlight of the market this week was "weird Barbie". Not only did she pose willingly for me, she flat out threw down what she was holding and did the splits as well. Apparently that is what weird Barbie does. Hands down, she had the best costume and was having the most fun of anyone there. 

Here is what came home with me this week. For apple enthusiasts, I am trying the "Ingram" variety this week. Even though I did not get another big pumpkin, more small gourds were definitely needed. You can not have too many gourds. 

Yes, I got some snickers cake. I had to, the 28th was Dad's birthday and a snickers bar was his absolute favorite candy bar. As I walked by I swear I heard him say "snag a piece and we'll split it".  So I did. 

soft, tender, buttery, with a cinnamon/sugar sprinkle, and a lovely, slightly crusty, bottom

This post about the Saturday farmers market shall begin and end with a favorite fall purchase. 

They may look like ordinary ho-hum muffins to you. But they are not. These are not a heavy, dense, nut/fruit laden, chewy muffin. No sir, they are not. Instead they a light, soft, tender, buttery, with a cinnamon/sugar sprinkle, and a lovely, slightly crusty bottom, sort of muffin. Yes they are. The pumpkin spice cake looked completely fantastic as well, but the muffins were calling. 

The Arkansas Black were my apple selection this week. 

I was delighted by the intrepid spirit of this bold short-wearing market goer! She assured me that short season still had a few weeks to go. 

Small succulent starts in jack-o-lantern pots... darling.

One day I swear I am going to get to the market at 0630 and film them setting up this display of radishes. Seriously, it's a puzzle. An engineering feat. A marvel. 

Here is what came home this week. 

And now you know why I did not get cake. These muffins only make a very limited appearance at the market. Maybe once or twice in October and then at the Holiday market. They freeze very well and if possible are even better when popped in the oven for about 10 minutes for warming. 

As an added bonus, in the heating, they make the kitchen smell insanely good.

giant dahlias, marigolds, and sunflowers

It was chilly at the farmers market on Saturday morning.  That's the way it will be from now until the end of the season. Still a bit on the dark side for photos at 7:30 in the morning too. I don't like to use the flash, but I prefer the Nikon which doesn't do quite as well in low light conditions as the iPhone. I may have to drive up and wait in my car with the seat warmer on next week.  I don't know why I don't just come later in the morning, but it doesn't feel right not to get there early. I love seeing it when everything looks perfect. 

There were giant dahlias, marigolds, and sunflowers for sale. Plus lots of peppers. 

These carefully wrapped small bouquets were just the best. I love the inclusion of herbs with flowers.  

My flower selection was this gorgeous pot of mums for the front porch, to go with the purple ones I got last week.  

There were also the usual suspects shown below.  I had to try and get in one more batch of pickled cucumbers and onion, and my new item to try this week is the lemon-ginger-cayenne immunity shots from Liquid Garden. 

There was some "roving" being spun into yarn at the market on Saturday. Which reminds me I need to get new dryer balls from her next week.  

Even though it's October, and not really the season for Hummingbird cake, I could just taste the banana/pineapple flavor and feel the sensation as I bit into that piece of candied pineapple on top. Plus I did not get any cake last week. 

I had a nice conversation with the gentleman below after I heard him say he wanted about 25 jalapeño peppers, which led to a conversation about what he was cooking up ... "experimenting with a jalapeño beer".  That was not what I expected to hear. 

One more look at the pumpkins and gourds and it was time to head home for coffee, to throw the afghan over my lap, and cozy up in the living room to read the paper. 

just getting them to the front porch was enough

On Saturday morning, with temperatures in the low 40's, I spied several methods of combatting the cold among those browsing the farmers market. They were: 1.  the sweater wearers, 2. those with turkey trot hats on their heads, and 3. the warm coffee cup holders. 

All good strategies in my opinion.  I wore a flannel shirt and coat, no hat, no coffee, no sweater. 

The days of flowers at the market are numbered... as in I bet these will be the last.  They were gazed upon fondly. 

Gourds and pumpkins are a fair trade off for them though.  I also looked at them fondly.

I did look for Clive by the cake (Brown Butter Caramel Apple) but he was nowhere to be found. Probably at Dee Dee or Nana's house eating waffles at the kitchen table. 

There were multiple types of sweet potatoes as well as apples for sale at the market. I am making it my mission to try all the apples this year. I have very much enjoyed each basket purchased so far this year. 

Mellowfield Farms lettuce blends will also soon be gone. Salads every night, I proclaim to Chris, who offers no resistance. 

I stocked up on protein balls and juice from Thuy, who chose the cute hat style of staying warm.

I took this week's photo in the back of the car. No carrying of heavy pumpkins and gourds into the house. Just getting them to the front porch was enough. 

Next up will be pot dumping, re-planting, wreath changing, gourd and pumpkin arranging. Just the usual fall things that make me happy.  

I will wait for him by the cake

Today I said YES to a pumpcullent and a piece of pumpkin spice latte cake. Two very good things. But before I show you other things let me tell you about something I did not get a picture of. 

Respecting the "I don't think his parents would want me to let you" I did not photograph the very cute boy, sitting in the back of a wagon, being pulled by his grandmother who was busy getting flowers. He happened to be eating an oatmeal pie and so our conversation began with that.

Me: What does that taste like?
Him: GOOD
Me: Is it more salty or sweet?
Him: Salty
Me: What else do you like from the place where you got that? (Chonky Bakers)
Him: Everything they have is good (there were 2 other brown bags from them in the wagon)
Me: Who brought you to the farmers market?
Him: my grandma, I have 2, one is DeeDee and one is Nana
Me: What is your favorite part about coming to the market?
Him: Just coming

We exchanged names and I told him I hoped I would see him again at the market. He smiled and said "ok". We didn't arrange anything, but I will wait for him by the cake. 

The fall flowers are beautiful. 

My regular peach/apple vendor was not at the market this week so I branched out and tried something new.

I had one of these Farot's with my breakfast. I had not heard of them before - "the were developed in the 1940's at the University of Missouri" I was told.  Very close to the Jonathans I have been getting, a bit less sweet, but really crisp and the perfect amount of tartness. When you are buying from an organic farmer you mustn't expect an apple to look like what you get at the grocery store... but you should expect for it to be delicious. These were.

Above was a discussion about sweet potatoes, below was a lot of laughing.

When I ask someone to take their picture and they pull out a perfect pose, I LOVE it.

Almost as much as I loved this woman's tee shirt. She told me she had lots of them. I can't imagine one better than this one, but I will be watching. 

There were beautiful heirloom tomatoes, colorful corn decor, and lovely Swiss chard. I spotted a new local honey that will have to be tried. 

As I was leaving the market, I saw these "gourdaments" and had to turn around and walk back into the market.

I think you will agree that one was needed on my porch.

All in all a most excellent day at the market. 

P.S. Not to tempt you or anything, but I bet they will have more pumpcullents next week. You can look at these to start to get an idea of the one you might want. 

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?