Scene: It’s Saturday morning. Wei is shopping at the local farmers market for the first time. Tom, a friendly vendor, is selling fresh vegetables.
TOM: Morning! Everything on this table was picked yesterday. Can I help you find something?
WEI: Good morning! I’m new to farmers markets. How does it work — do I just pick what I want?
TOM: Exactly! Grab a bag, pick what you like, and I’ll weigh it at the end. Or I can pick the best ones for you.
WEI: These tomatoes look beautiful. Are they organic?
TOM: They sure are. No pesticides — just sunshine, water, and good soil. Taste one!
WEI: Mmm, that’s the best tomato I’ve had in years. The ones at the supermarket don’t taste like anything.
TOM: That’s because ours ripen on the vine. Supermarket tomatoes are picked green and shipped across the country.
WEI: That makes sense. How much are they?
TOM: $3.50 a pound. How many would you like?
WEI: Give me about two pounds, please. And what are these purple vegetables?
TOM: Those are eggplants. They’re great grilled or in stir-fry. Want the recipe I give all my customers?
WEI: Yes, please! I love trying new recipes.
TOM: Slice it, brush with olive oil, add garlic and salt, then grill five minutes per side. Simple and delicious.
WEI: I’ll take two eggplants too. Do you come here every Saturday?
TOM: Every Saturday, rain or shine, from 8 to 1. We also do a vegetable box subscription — $25 a week for a mix of whatever’s fresh.
WEI: A subscription sounds wonderful, but let me start small today. Do you take cards?
TOM: We do — cards, cash, and even phone payments.
WEI: Perfect. Here’s my card. Oh — one more thing. Are these peaches ripe yet?
TOM: Give them one more day on your counter. If they smell sweet at the stem, they’re ready.
WEI: Thank you, Tom! I’ve learned so much. I’ll definitely be back next Saturday.
TOM: See you then, Wei! Tell your friends about us!
— THE END —