the “I planted too many tomatoes” lament, and the unending “thunk” of stone fruit dropping on the patio. Fruit is drying in the roof rack, filling up the refrigerator and freezer, and neighbors run into their houses, slamming the door behind them, when they see me approaching laden with a heavy produce basket.

Mention produce and the Davis Farmers Market quickly springs to mind. For people in surrounding communities, The Market is the destination of choice on Wednesday nights and Saturday mornings. Ours is a festival market, with a myriad of activities, especially designed for young folks. I have visited farmers markets across the country and have never seen one so well integrated with playgrounds and other kids’ activities, including a merry-go-round, fountains, and climbing trees. Mark Francis, his design team, and the city planning staff deserve great credit for creating such a lively public space. There are always interesting vendor displays and cages of appealing cats and dogs trained to make eye contact with potential adopters. There are musicians, balloon sculptors, craft booths and advocacy groups.

In town there are numerous art venues. Every week I receive announcements for gallery openings, exhibitions, workshops, and tours. Winters and Woodland are becoming art