I am somewhat ashamed to admit this but until this past Sunday, I had never had the pleasure of visiting a farmer’s market. True, I have been to the Shuk in Jerusalem, which is a partially opened market where vendors of all sorts gather, but I didn’t really appreciate the experience when it occurred. Probably because I was an idiot and wore open toed shoes when I visited. Note to anyone who is thinking about planning a trip to the Shuk in Israel: DON’T WEAR FLIP FLOPS OR SANDALS!!!! Your toes will be crushed by carts or stomped on by pedestrians determined to get that last cabbage head.
Thankfully, the farmers market that I attended was far less competitive and overwhelming. While it certainly wasn’t the biggest farmer’s markets out there, the size was just right for a first timer for me. For one thing, I didn’t feel rushed and intimidated as I took a quick stroll around. All around were people from the area, curious just like me to see what the vendors were selling. Although it was early on Sunday morning, the place was plenty crowded; some vendors were already sold out of some of their products. After one stroll around, I knew I was in love. After being surrounded by all the fresh produce, herbs, cheeses, and baked goods, I have decided that attending farmer’s markets should become my new hobby. 
Truly, I wish my eyes had been opened to how awesome these things are years ago! From a foodie’s standpoint, I couldn’t help but daydream about the different dishes I could make with all the different produce on sale. True, it was a bit more expensive than what you might find at a grocery store, but the quality more than makes up for it. Additionally, I stumbled upon some ingredients that I have never seen in stores. Like lavender. This is an ingredient that I have always wanted to get my hands on; what can I say, the idea of lavender cupcakes sounds too good to not try. However, I have always wanted to buy it 
fresh rather than through amazon.com. And finally, after two years of yearning, there it was, right in front of me!!!!! Dreams really do come true!
Unfortunately, I didn’t have enough money on me to buy it but I wasn’t too upset. This particular farmer’s market will be happening every Sunday in town for the remainder of the summer. I can promise you that I’ll be going back this coming weekend.
If any of you live in the Boston area and know of any local farmer’s markets, let me know. I’ll be moving there in September and would love to check them out.
The Foodie Librarian 