I was mortified a couple weeks ago when it appeared that Uncle Paul’s produce market on SE Hawthorne had suddenly closed up shop. I quickly learned that it was true, they’re sticking to wholesale, but that Kruger’s Farm of Sauvie Island would be opening up a market. Sure enough, they opened last weekend, and being a curious enthusiast of produce within walking distance of my abode, I went to check it out. It’s pretty similar to Uncle Paul’s – it’s the same open building with a good deal of local produce, some organic, hella (wicked? mad? way?) cheap citrus, tomatoes (see you next summer!) and mounds of local squash, with two big differences: Ryan’s apple cider and a lot more walking room.

And now, a throw back to long ago days with an Anatomy of a Grocery Trip:

• Honeycrisp apples – I never buy these trendy “perfect” apples because they kinda freak me out, but they were under $1/lb!
• Lemons – 5 for $1. One can never have too much fresh citrus around.
• Lime – ditto
• Avocado – Their baby avocados were rock hard, but 4 for $1, so…let’s be patient.
• Orange bell peppers – I know, I know. It’s not local, but I’d rather buy bell peppers now and then to roast instead of crying all the time. It’s not like I bought flavorless tomatoes!
• Satsumas – Like you need an explanation.
• Ryan’s Apple Cider – straight outta Hood River, super fresh – and $3.50 for a half gallon.