The markets are down

The markets are down, and it's just something I'm going to have to live with.

As it's October, I should consider myself fortunate that the basil, oregano and rosemary haven't died and we're still picking strawberries. But somehow, I'm just not ready to accept the full weight of what fall means.

It means very soon, the last of the farmers markets and farm stands will close. Already the options are very slim: the tomatoes that just won't quit, a few straggling ears of corn, several types of squash and pumpkins.

The CSA shares are evolving, too. Turnips and strange greens accompany the cherry tomatoes that haven't given up. I'm still not sure how our 25-week program through our organic CSA will string us along with root vegetables until Thanksgiving. We'll see.

This is what I hate about fall. You're facing six months of sad produce in the stores and wondering what, if anything, looks appetizing enough to make for dinner. It's little wonder so many of us turn to comfort food in the winter: wilted vegetables or a steaming bowl of chili?

The name of this CSA, one of the oldest in Indianapolis, was deleted from this post on January 28, 2009. I have been falsely accused of libel by this CSA and will no longer promote them by using the name of the organization. Please do all you can to preserve the blessings of this country, including the First Amendment!