Beauty, Charm & Style

Oh summer, how I have missed you. The grass is greener, the sky is bluer and the sun is brighter.  Yeah, so bright I’m sporting SPF Billion.

And with summer time comes those wonderful local farmer’s markets.

A great way to buy fresh, local foods, farmer’s markets offer its shoppers a wide array of fruits, veggies, cheeses, flowers, breads, meats and fresh squeezed watermelon lemonade. Everyone should make an attempt to visit his or her local market at least once this season.

Lucky for me, every Wednesday the Austin Farmers Market is hosted in the park just a stone’s throw from my balcony. (No really, I could throw a stone at the market, and I throw like a girl)

Markets are great places to socialize, meet new people and hear great local music. Supporting a wonderful system of independent farmers and growers, you also get the opportunity to make good choices about the foods you eat.

Try seasonal fruits and veggies from local growers!

Yes, a Farmer’s Market can be intimidating.  Filled with crunchy hippies, some oddballs and organic crazed moms with baby strollers, a normal person like yourself may feel lost and helpless. Never fear.  Just remember these tips and try to have fun.

1. Not everything is sold at the market is organic, but a good deal is. The banner representing the farm will say if the food is organic, but f you still have questions, ask the folks working the booth.
2. Make a list before you arrive. Knowing that you need tomatoes, apples and basil will help you narrow your search through the many delicious booths.
3. Get to the market at the opening.  This is when leafy greens are at their best because they haven’t sat in the hot sun all day and not everything has been completely picked over.
4. Bring your own big shopping bag.  Make a statement with something handmade or just grab an old Trader Joe’s paper bag.
5. Try at least one new and mysterious food.  Maybe it turns out you LOVE kale. Plus the booth owners are usually great resources for ideas on how to prepare your new adventure food.

Fine your own local markets here, with Local Harvest.