Thursday, May 28, 2009

Chatelain Market Day

One of the joys of living in Europe is walking and shopping at local weekly markets. And now that summer is here it feels that much more 'right' to buy produce locally and to make it an outdoor experience rather than a food shopping chore. My favorite place is the Chatelain Market off Avenue Louise. It is quite a hike for us from our house, but it is a fun, friendly place with a good variety of foods - so definitely worth the extra steps to get there. I thought it would be a good place to take my Mom while she was visiting for her to peek into one of our more European habits.Brady and Karen met us for our market adventure with Mom. Of course the kids had a great time together, as they always do. They ate blueberries and strawberries - honestly I think they are going to turn into berries one of these days!
We got the obligatory Belgian Waffles there - a farmers market with waffles, always a plus! They were hot and light and just the right size. A yummy sweet treat admist the fruits and veggies and made to order while we waited.
It is gratifying to track and follow the produce seasons at the markets. I never really thought about it before but it is very clear as the different fruits ripen and come into season. Right now is asparagus and cherry season! No doubt! Cherries are still tough for Connor. Those darn pits are pretty tough to teach her about. So for now it is just me enjoying the sweet, ruby red cherries! Maybe next year for Connor!
I can't wait for tomato and watermelon season later this summer. There is nothing better than tomato and cucumber salad or a freshly cut melon!
And another bonus at the market are all the super fresh flowers here. They are cheap, plentiful and gorgeous. I have yet to buy any just yet though. I don't know why - I bet they would really brighten my apartment even more and make me smile. I think they just seem like a fleeting indulgence and with all our travel we are never in town long enough to enjoy the full flower cycle, you know? But that doesn't stop me from enjoying every flower and every color at the market!

2 comments:

BelgiumBound said...

Reid, Your mom is soooo beautiful! She could seriously be a model! :)

Shannon Balloon said...

Ooooh I miss the Chatelain market. I used to go weekly (we were just 2 blocks away). Be sure to try a German pretzel from the German baker. He's on the corner at the Ave. Louise end of the market.