the market basket

over the past few months, i've realized the importance of varying totes, coordinating our carry-wear with specific tasks and activities. a clutch for a party or late-night outing...perfect for an ID, keys, lip gloss. a wicker tote for the beach...the ideal bag for all things sandy. the over-the-shoulder bag...easily accommodates books and laptop without putting undue force on a particular shoulder. 


my preoccupation with carry-wear became apparent every time i frequented the farmer's market. there i was, filling my canvas bags with fresh finds. sure, it was an earth-friendly alternative to the plastic bag, but every time i got home, i was bothered: my soft-fleshed fruits and vegetables were either bruised or prematurely leaking their juices....all because they were crushed by each new addition inside the canvas bag. the strawberries beneath the cauliflower, beneath the nectarines, beneath the radishes, and so on.

let me preface that i take tender care of my produce. each deserves to be savored in its most prime state. i cringe (and occasionally voice my opinion) when the bagger at the grocery store tosses everything into one bag without giving a single thought to the food's sensitivity, its delicate nature.

finally acknowledging the anxiety evoked by the canvas bag, i took action. i marched over to pottery barn, scoured the store, and fixed my eyes on the perfect market basket. i eagerly used it this morning, and to no surprise, i was instantly pleased...

sturdy enough to withstand the produce weight. open enough to hold my flowers without destroying their faces. big enough to separate the goods, but small enough to carry without strain. clearly, i am an advocate of market baskets. oh, the possibilities that await with undefiled produce!