I've Missed You Farmer's Market

I took the kids to a Lowe's Build & Grow clinic today. It's been awhile since we've been to one due to some pretty busy Saturdays lately. We headed downtown and made a ball & cup toy. They've been enjoying trying to catch the ball in their cups. Lex is going to be pretty handy with a hammer after all these clinics. He's able to get through the instructions all on his own now. Isabel likes to hit maybe the first two nails and then just likes to watch me.

My sister, Cassie, called while we were still in Salt Lake and asked if we'd like to meet her & Amanda at the downtown Farmer's Market. I wasn't thrilled about going with the kids and without Shane, but I haven't been for about two years and I really enjoy going there. So, I braved the crowds & the heat with my little ones.

The first thing we saw from people leaving were some pretty cool balloon shapes. So, to keep the kids interested, we decided to try to find it while still giving me a chance to browse some of the booths. The balloon lady wasn't too far in & we stood in a short line to get a horse & a gun. I'm sure you can guess who got what. When Lex asked for a gun, I thought for sure she would say she couldn't make that, but she could! Lex was very excited for it, too.

The excitement from the balloons didn't last long enough for me to be able to drag the kids around through the entire market, so after an hour we said good-bye. I don't know if I'll be back again this season since Shane doesn't get off work til 1:30pm and the market closes down at 1:00pm. I would love to go again with him by my side. There is a (mini) Farmer's Market in Bountiful during the week, so I think maybe we'll just have to stop by for a visit.

While we were walking back to the car, we passed many homeless individuals. It's bound to happen since the market is just a block from the homeless center & we are downtown. I usually ignore them and avert my eyes hoping they don't ask for money... especially the ones that look healthy enough to have a job. I know there are those in unfortunate situations who had jobs & lost them in the recession. But, one individual caught my attention. He looked like he had been beaten up or I don't know what. He asked for spare change and I kept walking. But, then I hesitated. I knew I only had 50 cents left from my cash after the market, but I thought something is better than nothing. So, I took a few steps back and told him it was all I had. I don't know if this small change lifted his spirits at all or not, but maybe it will make a difference some how.

This old man was asleep between two concrete structures. He was by his shopping cart full of I don't know what. One can looked like paint thinner! I felt sad. It made me wonder what kind of life did he live? Did he ever find love? Will this be the way it is for him til he passes on? Everyday I am thankful for everything I have; including the bad. Because, really. It isn't that bad. I am loved and I have a family to love.