The Morning Market

Every Saturday morning, Anna wakes up early and walks to the market near her house. The market opens at seven o'clock, and by eight the small square is full of people, colors, and smells. Farmers from nearby villages bring fresh vegetables, fruit, cheese, and bread. Anna likes to arrive early because the best tomatoes and strawberries sell fast. She greets the sellers by name, because she has shopped there for three years. First she buys vegetables for the week: carrots, onions, peppers, and a large bag of potatoes. Then she stops at the cheese stand, where an old man lets her taste a small piece before she buys. After that she buys two warm loaves of bread that smell wonderful. The bread is still hot from the oven, and Anna carries it carefully so it does not get crushed. She also buys yellow flowers for her kitchen table, because they make the room feel bright. While she shops, she meets her neighbor, and they drink a small cup of coffee together at the corner stand. They talk about their families, the weather, and plans for the weekend. By ten o'clock Anna walks home with two heavy bags. She feels tired but happy, because the market gives her fresh food and a chance to see friends.