Finding My Inner Julia Child

I am a creature of habit. I don’t like change. And…I don’t like to cook. But, this year has been full of change—and subsequently full of cooking for me. 

You see, in February I became engaged to a wonderful man who loves me and even claims to love my cooking. I am not sure if it is because his cooking skills may be even less honed than mine, or if he is just thankful that someone else is making meals and packing lunches. He is the grillmaster at the house, but don’t ask him to make English muffin pizzas unless you enjoy chewing on hockey pucks with no flavor.

I tell you all this because this year, as you can imagine, has been full of changes for me. I am 41 years old and have lived on my own and in the Augusta area for nearly 20 years. I have never been married and have never had to cook for anyone else. This spring, I moved to Brunswick, cook nearly every day, and am getting used to life with someone else in the house. So far, so good.

I realized as we were traveling to the farmer’s market, that I had never been to one before, except for a fun stroll through one in San Diego while visiting a friend. I guess the main reason I hadn’t been was because I never thought I could cook the various vegetables or meat they offer, so decided to stay with the frozen vegetables that steam in a bag that can be found at my local grocery store. I love my new home and love the Brunswick area, but miss my little grocery store and familiar routine. So, when my mother called and suggested that I go with her to the Brunswick farmer’s market on the town green two Fridays ago, I thought that sounded like a great idea.

Well, all I have to say is, those days are now behind me. I LOVED the farmer’s market and placed my order with my mother (she is retired and I had to work this past Friday) for more items this week. She delivered to me fresh onions, garlic scapes, and some delicious zucchini. Last week it was potatoes, salad greens, and some fabulous tomato focaccia bread. All of the meals I have made with these fresh local foods have been easy and delicious! Who knew?!

Do you have a farmer’s market near you? What are your favorite items to purchase this time of year? Do you need to locate a farmer’s market near you so that you can check it out like I did two weeks ago? Click here to search for one in your area. Don’t forget to bring your basket or reusable shopping bags so that you can stock up on fresh meats, veggies, breads, and plants.

Maybe now that I am using fresh, locally grown ingredients, meals at my house will continue to improve. Well, we can always hope.