managedmacros

The best thing about Des Moines in the summer??? The downtown farmers market...hands down!

Just knowing the day before that I am going to it gets me just giddy! Its not only the fresh local produce that I love (top of my list, of course)  its the community gathering, the smells of exotic foods, the colors of the harvest, the chance to hang out with someone I care about, to try new treats and indulge with my local favorites. 

Oh yea...and to see all the pups! Its almost a dog show down here with everyone and their dog (no pun intended! ) walking around! Love it!!

Loving the colors and fragrance of the season.  Peonies and snapdragons. Beautiful.

Nut butters!!! It wouldn't be a trip to the marked without a purchase from my favorite stand. Fresh ground natural butters nut butters; peanut, cashew and almond butters are a must try if you have never had them.

Eat it once and you will never go back to Skippy!!!  Gaurenteed!  Ingredients??  US Fresh Roasted peanuts. Thats it.  Who needs more? Simple and clean....

What a rainbow of wonders!

My purchases today?? Yellow heirloom tomatoes to pair with my gardened basil, fresh mozzarella and balsamic vinegar. Fresh zucchini to grill with a little olive oil, cracked pepper and sea salt. Nut butter (of course!) and some happiness in a vase!

What did I sample?? Oh...you name it!! Fresh local salsa from Indianola, wines from local vineyards, breads from our local treasures such as La Mie Bakery and Great Harvest, Chevre from Knoxvilles Reichart's dairy farm and fresh ground spicy mustard's.  My only disappointment this week?? My favorite little cupcake stand wasn't here!  The one week I decide to take my camera of course! That's Ok...she'll be here next time...I hope!!

Biiiig hug to the market!! I luv ya!!!