The Who Farm Bus

Today’s shopping trip was a bit less dramatic than last week, but something did make me realize I’d become immune to the oddities of NYC living. As I was walking with my 15lb bag from Trader Joe’s to the Farmer’s Market, I spotted a man, reading a book on the steps of Union Square - then I looked closer - he had a large desert-type lizard on his shoulder, also enjoying the warm summer air. I giggled, and kept moving. Then I thought, you can’t make this stuff up when you live in urban environments. No where else, except in a large city do you find a normal lookin’ guy sunning himself with his lizard, literally. After making a pass through the Green Market, I saw this double bus promoting an organic farming project. After looking at their site, they apparently bought this weird bus from Jerry of Ben & Jerry’s (now, it makes sense, right?). They will be traveling cross country - it’s quite a sight to see - if you’re on their list of stops, check it out.

I had great luck at the Farmer’s Market, as well as Trader Joe’s. The tomatoes were perfect, and the corn was still really sweet. I also found another baker that charges $1 less for an artisnal loaf of bread. I bought my prosciutto and salmon from TJ’s as well as the dairy. The price difference between those sorts of items there and at Whole Foods is pretty large. The only “fresh” things I purchased at WF was the Taleggio cheese, which I’ve never tried - so why not now? I also noticed that both stores had some pretty bare shelves I assume from the weekend. I also splurged on an authentic New Mexican Red Chili sauce at WF, which I think will be well worth it. But overall, I was very happy and excited with my purchases today. Here’s the break down.

Green Market Totals:

4 Ears of Jersey Corn, 6 Ripe Tomatoes, Green Onions, Cilantro, Parsley, Basil, Jalapenos, White Nectarines: $12

Fresh Artisnal Bread: $3.75

Grand Total: $94.11/week/2people/10 meals (plus whatever else I can come up with)

Total of $4.70/person/meal!!

Tags: Farmer's Market, Trader Joe's, Whole Foods