Summer Fridays have sure changed since ly.

One thing we can all still look forward to these days, though, is frequenting the Farmers Market at Goddard Park, happening every Friday from 9am to 1pm, weather permitting.

I mean, it’s an entirely pleasant way to pick up some groceries without having to set foot inside a supermarket and the stress that that could bring at this time. (For the record, I’ve been relying on deliveries and my nieces and have not been to the market since the beginning of March.)

Before you start gathering up your Summer 2020 going out essentials — that favorite mask (everyone seems to know someone who’s making them now), your hand sanitizer of choice, and a pair of sunnies — please check out some of my highlights.

1. It’s Pawsome! Looking for another great excuse to leash up the pup and get out during Phase 2 of the RI reopen? This is it. In the past I’ve also spied several dog bakeries, including my friends from Jack's Snacks, set up there. In other words you’ll find plenty of treats and accessories for your 4 legged bff. And if we’re really being honest here, don’t they deserve it after helping us get thru the shutdown and all that time at home?

2. Saying Yes To Plastic. No need to stress over having to handle cash right now. The vendors accept credit and debit cards (snap/ebt and wic checks too). I used my cc to buy an iced coffee and a new mug from the Dave's Coffee booth — thankfully putting an end to the morning drama and back and forth at our house over that single Dave's mug in the cupboard that everyone wants to use for that crucial first cuppa coffee.

3. Staying Cool As A Cucumber. There's throwing shade, then there's the shade of a majestic old tree at that park. Rest assured that there are lots in the vicinity of the market, a welcome sight on those June, July or August mornings when the humidity seems to kick in immediately. (I’m not going to complain about the heat…yet!)

4. Local Produce, Aka, Farm To Fork Eating: GP also offers an easy to navigate selection of locally farmed and in season fruits and veggies. (Maybe it’s just me but I do feel like it’s so much easier to stay socially distant outside.) In the past, we’ve picked up some absolutely delicious and affordably priced native or heirloom tomatoes, eggplant, and cucumbers, all grown organically and here in the OS.