Photos by me.

Saturday the Farmer's Market in Evanston opened. Even though it was grey and misty out, I couldn't have been more excited to walk over and check out all the fresh foods, beautiful plants, and curious folk.

I love that there is a hustle and bustle going on, but I can walk around on my own and observe all the details there are to see.

Witnessing the color of a mushroom I've never seen before. Taking in the texture of a stalk of willow, the way the fuzziness reminds me of a blanket on my couch. Stopping for a minute to smell the scent of freshly baked bread as it mixes with the aroma of coffee brewing.

During my visit I enjoyed a delicious all-fruit blueberry smoothie from the Seedling stand, and a fresh-baked chocolate croissant.

The bounty I brought home included purple asparagus, rhubarb, and a handmade portabella red pasta sauce.

Of course there was no choice but to make a strawberry rhubarb crisp right away and serve it with some vanilla ice cream... mmmm. The photo does not do it justice! :)

I'm happy to report the asparagus was a huge success, too, and I'll be back for more next weekend. I think this year I'm going to take a photo of each market bounty I bring home, too. Stay tuned for more fresh, green goodness coming soon to Alive in the Fire. Namaste.