One of the best things about summer for me (or faux summary, or June-uary, or whatever happens in June, July, and August) is, without a doubt, the farmer's market. We have tons of them different days of the week--if you were industrious, you could probably hit one every day of the week without going too far out of your way. (You can see a list at Puget Sound Fresh.)

 

I've seen the signs for the Bellevue Farmer's market all summer, and finally remembered to make time to go tonight. It's in a lot at a local church, plenty of parking, even a crossing guard (unfamiliar concept from a former Californian). One of the things I love about the markets here though is not just the fresh vegetables and fruit, though that is, of course, a draw. There's beautiful fresh flowers--peonies, and irises--and of course the chance to chat with the farmers and other vendors.

 

But what I love to see here at these places is the fresh cheese (tomato basil!)--goat, goat-milk gouda, garlic cheddar. Fresh seafood--mussels, clams, scallops. And fresh poultry, pork and beef. These people are staffing their booths with coolers packed with ice and the bounty of their work--there's no plastic or polystyrene between you and the food. You can ask them questions, and they'll be able to answer you with authority and clarity.

 

Sigh--love the farmer's market.

And now I will go and stare lwith longing at my tomato basil cheddar cheese.