Editor's note: All opinions, columns and letters reflect the views of the individual writer and not necessarily those of the IDS or its staffers.
Despite the gloomy weather, I’m determined to make the most of spring before graduating and moving from Bloomington.
I’ve retired my winter coat in hopes the temperature will be on my side, started buying more spring produce for meal preps, taken spontaneous picnics in the slices of good weather we’ve had and perhaps most important of all: planned my Bloomington Community Farmers’ Market visits.
Since freshman year, I’ve cherished my Saturday mornings at Showers Common, enjoying the vibrant local food scene. As much as I enjoy an efficient grocery haul, I love that a farmer’s market encourages strolling and provides me with several unique products I don’t usually find at ALDI. Plus, I can sometimes enjoy idyllic weather in the company of friends and vendors who are passionate about what they do.
The farmers’ market is also the place where I purchase most of my houseplants. From Pothos to Philodendron Birkin to Umbrella plants, I have a variety of lush green plants and vines dispersed and cared for in my apartment.
While research highlights the stress-relieving and air-cleaning benefits of plants, my collection offers deeper personal connections. My green thumb, inherited from my mom, reminds me of home and provides me with a mindfulness activity away from the trials and tribulations of college life.
I enjoy researching which plants I can personally take care of given my housing and plant knowledge as well as budget and aesthetic. It’s been a satisfying and wholesome journey, but I also can’t forget to thank those at the farmers’ market who’ve patiently answered all my questions, shared their own stories and in retrospect, taught me much more than just how to take care of plants.
Lesson #1: It’s important to see things through fruition.
When I first ventured into plant care, I worried I lacked the intuition to keep them alive for longer than a month. One day, a kind woman at the farmers’ market overheard my doubts and shared her own experiences of nervousness when starting out. She reassured me that learning to take care of plants requires patience rather than special skills. She even showed me pictures of her thriving garden, illustrating how her efforts had come to fruition. This unexpected conversation motivated me to commit to my plant purchases and reminded me of the supportive community surrounding the farmers’ market.
Lesson #2: Don’t be afraid to embrace different attitudes and specialties.
The farmer's market is a vibrant tapestry of vendors, each bringing their unique perspectives and stories. It's a space that also welcomes art fairs and musicians, encouraging interactions that go beyond business. Some of my favorite vendors take an interest in my life, asking about my studies while sharing tips on how to use the miso vegan kimchi I just bought. I learned a flower vendor picks his selections based on what’s in season, but that he also honors his wife with a set of her favorite wildflowers regardless of the time of year. I learned about their passion for ethical beekeeping practices from a honey vendor. These little exchanges highlight the myriads of personalities and beliefs that enrich our community, reminding me to always be open to learning from others.
Lesson #3: Be sure to celebrate the small wins.
The farmer's market encourages a leisurely stroll, inviting me to savor the moment rather than rush through my purchases. When I visit with friends, our conversations shift from stress about exams and job searches to simple joys inspired by the stalls around us. In this happy setting, we celebrate small wins: trying new foods, discovering unique products and the experience of being present. It’s a powerful reminder to embrace life's little pleasures, even with all the chaos of our busy lives.
With a set of new priorities and memories of an excellent farmers’ market, I’m glad I was able to experience this culture these past four years. The market embodies a rich tapestry of community stories, and I want to carry this spirit of connection wherever I go.
Meghana Rachamadugu (she/her) is a senior studying marketing and business analytics and pursuing a minor in French.
