The weather here has been crazy. Short sleeve weather. Open the windows and eat outside.
Tuesday, we just decided we needed a road trip to our favorite flea market, farmer’s market and lunch stop. Manheim PA. The Roots market and auction.
It’s a throwback to the large markets once common across the country. Not that far off from some of the best markets we found on our trip to the Mediterranean. Lots of local stuff. Some not so local stuff. Many vendors selling goods. Used items.
Everything and anything. Even a live poultry auction in one of the buildings.
Flea markets are fun. I found a treasure trove of Time Life cookbooks of the world here a few years back. This year, wandering around we did find a book seller that had many of the westerns that my mom loves. In large books, without faded print.
We had lunch. Did a bit of shopping. I picked up some of my favorite celery. Some herbs. A couple avocados to go with the Tuscan kale in my CSA share.
A lazy day in almost perfect weather.
This celery was the real reason for the trip. If you haven’t tried it, you should. Head up to the area just west of Lancaster, on any Tuesday. Find Hodecker’s. Their celery is so sweet, and so different from that in the stores. The family sells their home grown product part of the year, and the rest of the year imports the same variety from California. It’s different. It’s awesome, and a treat for those of us who enjoy the best produce we can find.
We must be crazy. Driving for two hours just to buy celery. And have PA sausage subs. And home made cookies for dessert. Maybe pick up a shoo fly pie.
AnnieRie Unplugged 
It is wonderful that your husband enjoys days like this with you. Mine would say, “Spend the day shopping? And driving 2 hours to get there? You have got to be kidding.” Luckily I have girlfriends that would do something like this with me!
I’m a huge fan of celery! Hodecker’s will now be a regular stop for us on the way to and from visiting my mother-in-law in Bethlehem.