The Los Ranchos de Albuquerque farmers market was on schedule yesterday as it is on Saturdays throughout the growing season. This last weekend in August, the market happens to coincde with the California slow food celebrations. There was no hint the vendors and customers were aware of the California happenings but the market had a festive air. It was a family affair. Children and dogs were in attendance and men and women vendors were at stands selling colorful and delicious looking fruit and vegetables . The craft on the stands were attractive and everyone  seemed to be having fun.

I bought 'Placitas plums' from two young women of high school age; one a senior about to leave for college on the east coast and the other a sophomore. I couldn't resist the mounds of bread at the bakery stand and also ended up buying scones and tarts.

But Albuquerque being the town it is, the North Valley being the comunity it is, and farmers markets being farmers markets, my morning would not have been complete without my meeting a friend or two, and I did. As it turned out, the farmers market was an altogether satisfying experience-wholesome home grown and home-made food, hand-made crafts, fun, friendship, and fellowship.

Eloise Gift
www.eloisegift.com