To Market, To Market...

I have lately begun a new habit on Saturday mornings. In the quest for fresher, healthier food and in keeping with my mission to support local business, I head out to the Bellingham Farmer's Market. A number of Whatcom County Organic farms offer the fruits of their labor downtown on Railroad each Saturday until about 3pm until December (I think). Armed with 2 empty (reusable, thank you) shopping bags, the week's grocery allotment and a spirit of adventure, I venture out to see what the market holds.

This past Saturday was a brisk, but beautiful sunny day, so I chose to take the trail through the woods and enjoy the dry weather while I still could. We "Hamsters" know we will be wearing rain gear soon enough, so we are wallowing in these last sunny days.

Trees beside the path have taken on their last burst of color as if in defiance of winter's fast approaching robbery.
Nearly there, I pass the mead shop's welcoming, but closed, back entry.
And the bigger-than-life bicyclers adorning an old metal building's wall.

The Market always has a festive air, stirring the senses. Musicians, magicians and storeytellers performing at the ends of each aisle between the booths delight the ears. The aroma of kettle corn floats through the air along with scents of lavender, homemade herb and floral soaps, Indian food and fresh coffee. Colorful fruits, vegetables, hula hoops, wool and the eccentric dress of locals provides changing and abundant eye candy. The fresh and plentiful samples of apples, sprouts, chai tea and various cheeses tempt the taste buds...

And everything is so fresh. The tomatoes and carrots came home with me this week along with the season's last eggplants, a couple of types of kale, mustard greens, broccoli and cauliflower. Oh, and honey crisp apples - YUM.
The grapes were plump and delicious, however, my bags were loaded and my money spent...
So I viewed the lovingly placed, autumn pumpkins, squash and sunflower heads with appreciation...
And the lush dahlias...


I made my regular stop at the Periwinkle Art Shop to get an inspiration boost. If you haven't been in here, you are truly missing a happy spot. Three local ladies share this space across from the Market stairs (by the restrooms) and are open only during the Market. Definitely worth a visit.
Heading back along the trail I caught glimpses of Bellingham Bay dotted with end of the season sailers.

The bright hues of the leaves against the blue sky left me breathless.
My Saturday morning walks are part of the simple life I'm enjoying here in the Pacific Northwest. Good food, fresh air, work that stimulates and nourishes my soul, precious children (yes, you too, Crystal) and grandchildren and married to the love of my life (and best friend), my life is full. And good.