Long ago, when I was growing up – shopping was so much fun. Everyone looked forward to it, whether something was purchased or not, the fun was in the looking. In my high school years to my twenties, we would meet at Hudson’s department store. We would have lunch at Lakeshore Grill within the store. Maurice salad was their specialty, but everything was delicious. We treasured those visits for years.

Then Hudson’s became Marshall Fields which later became Macy’s. Things weren’t the same, but the restaurant continued. COVID hit and the revolutionary restaurant was closed forever. People still mourn the loss of the Maurice salad, it had quite a fan base. I remember waiting in line for lunch or dinner. Some of the wait staff had been there from the beginning.

Now days, they say people don’t like to shop. Everything is online where you order and you pick it up or have it delivered. Delivery of groceries is handy for many even necessary for some. Especially the elderly and those who are truly too busy to fit one more item into their agenda. But the loss of going to the store, seeing what there is, trying something new. It’s lost.

Until… you go to a grand opening of a new grocery store (Fresh Market). There are tastings, and people, and happiness and you buy more than you meant to, but will eat every bit. These are cherished times. People DO love to shop and they love to eat. It’s a social experience like no other.

We need to keep it up for our well being. So thank you, Fresh Market. Thank you for the fun emails. Not to mention, the fabulous coffee, beautiful flowers, fresh produce, etc. You are proof that people love to shop. They love to interact, try new things – job well done!

We just tried the FLYING MEATBALLS (turkey) in marinara sauce. You would have no idea these are turkey. I made a nice salad with a few slices of sourdough I had in the freezer (toasted with olive oil). It was perfect to soak up the sauce. Delicious!

If you’re a Fresh Market shopper, what are some of your favorites?

💐 Until next time…