twigs & herbs

Last weekend, I went to the first summer farmers' markets in Burlington. It was a gorgeous spring morning and I couldn't believe all of the produce that was already available on the first day (isn't it usually just seedlings and prepared food?)—there was asparagus, rhubarb, spring onions, spinach, greens, bok choy, fiddleheads, potatoes, carrots, parsnips, mushrooms, cheese, eggs, meat, bread, pastries, maple syrup, honey and SO MUCH MORE!

Since it was just me in the house, I only allowed myself a few perishable items: a pound of rhubarb, a bunch of asparagus and some shallots. Then I also bought several herb seedlings for my garden. I took my purchases home and made a spring risotto right away. It was so good! I still haven't done anything with the rhubarb yet, but I think I might make a tart or rhubarb ice cream (that was a favorite last year).

As soon as I started working on the garden it started pouring and didn't let up all day. But that didn't stop me. I dug up a spot for my herb garden and transplanted some shrubs to make room. Then I planted everything. It took all day and then some on Sunday too. It looks lovely! Next we might try and build a stone patio next to it, but who knows when that will happen.

Being in the gardening spirit, I've also started thinking about flowers for our wedding. Because it will be in winter, I've been so overwhelmed by the whole idea of planning the bouquets & arrangements. But now I'm getting really inspired by new life all around me and pictures of colorful twigs—red & yellow dogwood branches are gorgeous! Maybe even some herbs will make it in there. We'll see...