Connecticut Green Living

I work one day a week at Fresh Market in Guilford, where I have had the pleasure of enjoying conversations with folks regarding everything from ginger root, turnips and bok choy to the value of almond milk and fair trade coffee . One thing that has perplexed me is how does one stay healthy during winter months when fruits and vegetables are no longer plentiful? Obviously, said f&vs are shipped in from around the country or from offshore, but what are the standouts? Other high-end "organic" stores in Connecticut offer what Fresh Market does: Whole Foods offers a tropical fruit mix and Trader Joe's (like F.M.) boasts Envy Apples (delicious). This is just a snapshot. Beautiful rows of tasty, healthful fruits and veggies entice the senses on a stroll through the aisles of all three stores. Further, families can offer their child a free banana or clementine at participating stores including Fresh Market and Stop 'n Shop . But the problem remains: during the heig...

Full disclosure: I had to leave Connecticut in May for a job in the D.C. area, and I'm pleased with my decision. But that doesn't mean there isn't a tug at my heart from Milford, where I spent over a dozen summers, when farmers' market season rolls around. So let's start with the Downtown Milford Farmers Market . It is held every Saturday, June 17 through Oct. 14, except on Oyster Fest Saturday (Aug. 19), from 9 AM to 1 PM. Get there early, right as they open, and you'll gobble up the best squash, cucumbers, and (my favorite) peaches. Also remember to pluck jams or fresh flowers and plants from the myriad vendors who come in from all points throughout the Nutmeg State. Kids can devour popsicles, Mom can get her pierogie-on-wheels fix, Dad can rock out to any number of musical acts who grace the space - located at 58 River Street, right by the train station, in the parking lot behind Corner Convenience and Scratch Baking. Of course, Milford isn't the on...