Sunday, July 11, 2010

Home Sweet Home- Eugene, Oregon

Eugene, Oregon
 2nd largest city in Oregon (about the size of Chattanooga).  Wikipedia says that Eugene is noted for it's natural beauty (called the "Emerald City") , recreational opportunities (where the Nike corporation started, called "Track Town USA"), focus on the arts, political activism, and alternative lifestyles.  I can attest to the natural beauty,  Eugene is surrounded by beautiful green hills.  Everywhere you go there are tall straight pine trees.  The cool temps must make growing beautiful flowers easy because lawns are filled to the overflowing with  baskets of petunias and other interesting plants.  Saw a monkey puzzle tree- heard of it but never seen one.  Recreation is  so easy.  All you have to do is strap on your shoes and walk out your door.  Walking and biking paths are truly  everywhere.  I've yet to see a street that didn't have sidewalks on both sides.  And the arts....in the first week alone I've enjoyed a Bach Festival concert and the Arts in the Vineyard festival (art show and wine tasting at the park).  Every weekend offers at least one opportunity to stretch your cultural muscles.

Saturday Market-every Saturday, April through mid-November, rain or shine.

























The Mushroom Man
Morels -last weekend for those they look like the cones of magnolia trees.  Dice them and saute in a little oil and throw over angel hair is what he says.  When he takes my money I see hands that bear the signs of working the soil.  I'm oddly comforted by this. After all could I trust a mushroom man with manicured nails?

The little Mexican lady deftly rolling ball after ball of cornmeal dough in her hands.  Walking by you feel the heat from the griddle.   She throws the balls onto the heat and wallah!!  fresh corn tortillas- 6 for a dollar.

The Balloon Man
Wearing fancy balloon hat as he walks the grounds.  He draws children like a pied piper.
Will you make one for me?



The Lavender Lady
Smells so good!!  Do you want a bunch, or a scoop for a tiny sachet or a spoonful to bake lavender shortbread?  How about lavender tea?

Saturday Market- a feast for the senses.

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