Cold Hands, Warm Smiles

It was piercingly cold this morning, especially after the rain began and the wind picked up, but the warmth of this farmer's expression makes it clear why folks are willing to brave the weather to shop at our farmers market. It's not just what you buy there -- it's who you buy it from, the person who grew or made what you are buying, and what it means to have that contact.

There were several other photos in this impromptu series, which I was pleased to have been able to take without the farmer or her customer noticing that I was doing it. It's hard not to be conspicuous when you're standing stock-still in the flow of shoppers with a camera up to your face!

(This was my initial choice, for its classic beauty, but although it holds the promise of future warmth, it couldn't beat that thoughtful smile.)

(You can see more of today's market, from local horseradish, stunning cabbage, and gourmet crackers and goat cheese, to elegant chocolates, striking necklaces, and holiday cards, here.)