After the long and endless winter we just experienced, it’s still hard to believe we’re actually approaching Summer.

In general, things are just better in Summer. It’s easier to get out of the house with a toddler, minus the nine layers. People seem in better spirits, probably due to the extra dose of vitamin D. And, our options at farmers’ markets expands, which is a huge deal when you live without a backyard garden.

Fortunately, I’ve always lived in a neighborhood with a thriving Farmer’s Market scene. My heart is partial to the Brooklyn Borough Hall Greenmarket (having lived in that hood the longest), but the Union Square Greenmarket comes in a close second. From a young age my daughter (funny, she’s only 3) has seen my enthusiasm for our early morning market visits. She now also gets just about as excited as I do to head to the market (side note: well, if there’s a treat in it for her and a time at the playground afterwards).

Jersey strawberries, asparagus, and radishes were the showstoppers. There were several tables with edible flowers/flowing veggies that also kept catching my eye; especially these flowering chives (Allium schoenoprasum). This pretty, edible, and versatile member of the onion family is a great way to add flavor to dishes.

5/5.6, 1/100 sec., ISO-200, 35mm

Below is a close up of a bunch of Chamomile. This daisy-like plant would be perfect for a late night cup of tea to relax.

f5.6, 1/400sec., ISO-100, 89mm

I didn’t end up getting any of the stinging Nettles below. This wild green has been used for years to improve hair growth, relieve allergies, and to treat rheumatic pain. It is now shown to even have properties helpful in treating enlarged prostate. High in Vit C, B’s, beta carotene, calcium, iron, potassium and magnesium.

f/5, 1/500 sec., ISO-100, 50mm

A day before we went to the market I joined my friend Liz for dinner at one of SoHo’s farm fresh restaurants Hundred Acres, while her awesome babysitter watched our children. The couple next to us were eating their radish appetizer with celery butter. We passed so we could keep it a dairy-free meal (thank you, Liz!). So when I saw the variety of radishes at the market I was happy. We’ve been slicing them up and eating like spicy candy.

f/5, 1/1250 sec., ISO-100, 50mm

And finally, below we have the before and after. Bunny was pretty pumped to get a gluten-free, chocolate sunflower seed cookie bomb. It was the size of her face almost. She’s a notorious two-bite-and-done eater, so my husband and I also enjoyed this goodie.