I just got back from the farmers' market, and I'm frozen to the bone. But my heart is warm. Why you ask? Well, it's because I'm amazed and grateful that all these wonderful farmers stand out in the cold and the rain to allow us city dwellers to eat real food grown locally.

The one good thing about cold days is that they're perfect for baking pies, roasting potatoes and simmering soup. Once I get home, I plan to fire up my oven and roast some of the yummy market veggies I bought today. The market is open until 2 pm, so, if you can, get yourself to Monument Square and then get cooking.

Should you need some added cooking inspiration, you can find a number of farmers' market recipes on my cooking blog.