Thank you global warming

I stopped by my local farmers market this weekend located at one of the most interesting designed schools I have ever seen. Simple, clean, and unlike any other in that it is true to the materials. It uses brick as real brick not veneer. It is quite small, but they make the most of their space. I will not digress on the theory of architecture, at this time. In addition to looking so cool, this just happens to be one of the most sought after elementary schools.

Today is yet another beautiful day, like is has been since I arrived. I am beginning to think that it really is not as bad as people say it can be, but then again I did just miss winter. I am in my flip flops, tank top and jeans with a mission to find Okra this time (still have not found any, even canned – see above reference to canned pea goods). I settled for some bread that looks good, but I have no idea what the little frenchy name means from the Bread Guy, a slice of banana cake for Ben from the Baker Gal, some of the second best dates I have ever eaten (the best being the ones from Israel of course) from the Fruity Gals, fresh goat cheese from the Cheese Guys, and finally some spices. The Spice Guy is located right next to the Wine Guy. But I cannot buy any wine quite yet, since I have not found a wine opener yet. Does me no good to buy the wine, if I cannot drink it.

As the Spice Guy helps me to pick out the beginnings of my Irish spice collection (pepper, salt, mixed herbs and paprika), we get to talking about where I am from. Now most Irish have no idea where Oregon is, but most know where Hollywood is, and I just say I am north from there. But this guy actually knew where Oregon was! That was when the Wine Guy chimed in as well. We talked about all the great wines coming out of the Willamette Valley and how well Oregon has gotten at growing grapes and how California is slowly declining in their vineyard productions. That is where the thanks to global warming comes into play. Since Ireland is becoming more and more sunny, with less and less drizzle (which Oregonians know so well), they are just starting for the first time even in history to grow grapes in Cork vineyards. I look forward to drinking some Irish wine in the near future, which by that time I will have my wine opener!