Whenever I realize that a handful of people actually read my ramblings here, much less finding some small enjoyment in it, I feel really touched. I mean, I talk so much nonsense. I’m constantly having meaningless realizations. Maybe it’s because I’m in my early twenties (tomorrow is my birthday, and I will be twenty-two!). Regardless, that doesn’t mean the universe has to hear about it when you all of a sudden recognize a really excellent system for organizing your socks or something.

Anyway, thanks for being here.

Also, since you love this shit:

Remember that wonderful, smooth-skinned old gentleman from the other day? The one who squabbles with his jacket? Well, here’s a story for you: my friend Wyn was about to leave the store for a break the other day; I asked him where he was going, and he responded, “Well, I’m going to the store to find something to eat. Then, I’m going to get coffee…”

And here’s where our friend, our hero, whom I had just rang up, pitched in,

“We know one thing you don’t need to go looking for, at least— because you’ve got a pretty girl right here. No need to find a beautiful girl! You’ve already got one! It’s a shame I’m too old for her, myself.”

I just about melted, because, of course, I’m absolutely in love with him.

Now, then. Here’s my market list for next week: carrots, bread, a half dozen eggs, a handful of green beans, a few new potatoes, a small head of cabbage. cherries. a couple tomatoes if they’re looking nice; some yogurt. I’m aiming for $20 or so, here.

What do I plan on making with the haul? Why, sweet and crunchy carrot salads, both my classic one and a favorite modification with raw grated beetroot + fresh ginger (also, Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall recently wrote about carrots for the Guardian, and I’m certainly intrigued by his lovely recipes); immensely satisfying bowls of chilled, soy-sauce-and sriracha-slicked spicy cabbage; sprightly green beans & new potatoes with plenty of olive oil. I also have some cornmeal pate brisee in my freezer, happily stowed away for some ripe fruit or other.

I’ll keep you all informed. Because, bless you, I know you’ll be interested.