xtcian

11/9/02 Since we're never here

11/9/02

Since we're never here on the weekends, we got to do something we never do: go to the Farmer's Market that rests in the middle of Grand Army Plaza. Now, the Plaza is an incredibly dramatic piece of work, a giant archway with huge bronze statues of soldiers and chariots shouting forth the victory of Brooklyn with a triumph rarely seen in America. It was actually built in 1892 by the same guy who designed Grant's Tomb as a giant Thanks For a Job Well Done to the Union soldiers of the Civil War, many of whom were entering their elder years when it was erected.

But more cool than that, the whole Plaza acts as an introduction to Prospect Park, and the (then)-wilderness of Long Island. City folk would have a little house out in the country here, and they would pass through the arch on their way to their own personal Elysia. It's one of those things you're glad is still around, and if you've ever been to London, it gives Marble Arch a run for its money.

the Grand Army Plaza farmer's market, selling those Thanksgiving-ish berry trees that white people like to put up for the holidays

We took Chopin the dog with us to the market, which I warned Tessa would be a big mistake; indeed, he almost started a fight with a white Labrador, and scrounge-hounded his way to free cheese, muffin bits, and our patience limit.

I always O.D. on the baked goods; there's just something about "Apricot Bread" prepared by hot Amish wives that sounds too sexy to pass up. Note to Farmer's Market shoppers: get the Chocolate Chip Pumpkin loaf instead. It's terrifying how good that shit is.