If there’s one reason to love California, let it be the abundance of produce grown inside state borders. We came back from farmer’s market today loaded down with summer goods: Maui onions, broccoli, asparagus, celery, tomatoes, rhubarb, seeds, dried fruit, tarragon, parsley, garlic chives, green beans, strawberries, and an (unbelievably) early crop of delicious cherries. The selection is simply amazing. And contrary to cries of food elitism from editorial writers who can’t be arsed to shop at something other than a national megamarket, our farmers markets offer an abundance of pesticide free goods at cheap or competitive prices. Of course, you can buy three punnets of a special, tasty, organic variety of strawberries for $16; but you can also buy three punnets of a more regular, pesticide free variety for $5 at the stall next door. Elitism (or lack thereof) is purely left to the shopper’s discretion. So in addition to superb selection, freshness, and eco-friendly products, shopping at your local farmer’s market supports our local economy without sinking your wallet!

The farmers in California are experiencing a great crop this year. I can’t wait for our annual trip to Leona Valley and (later) the arrival of juicy, sweet peaches. Jenn is in food lover’s paradise. Praise hypnotoad for the gym and the pool!