The Magic of Markets: From Childhood Memories to Modern Homemakers

The author admits she enjoys visiting markets not only in her hometown of Valka and the neighboring city of Valga but also elsewhere in Latvia. Although her children laugh, attributing this interest to age, she takes no offense. She recalls how every Saturday her father would leave early for Valmiera market, looking for a parking spot and leisurely shopping. She especially remembers the 'Vineta' variety potatoes that were a pleasure to peel. Her father had familiar vendors who saved the best produce for him, and he always chatted with them about the harvest and life.

The author notes that she inherited this communication habit from her father. She deliberately avoids sullen vendors who seem to discourage conversation. Lately, she has been captivated by the markets held in Valmiermuiža, which she visits with her youngest daughter. There, a distinctly Latvian atmosphere prevails, as all vendors sell only their own products. The author admires their courage, creativity, and diligence, emphasizing that these people are the masters of their own time.

Latvian vendors stand out with their sense of taste and aesthetics – products are neatly packaged in paper, not plastic. The author is delighted by families selling special products, such as homemade sweet-sour bread made from a grandmother's recipe. She observes that in recent years, many young people have become homesteaders, moving from cities to the countryside. Some still work remotely in offices, but most choose an alternative lifestyle – keeping bees, growing herbs, making bath whisks, raising goats, and making cheese. The author concludes that there are many possibilities, and she herself sometimes thinks about growing basil and making pesto. Markets remind her that anything is possible in life.