Rule number one at the market:  Don't touch.  Tell the vendor what you would like and how many and they will choose the best for you. 

If you don't speak the language, point and use your fingers.  Ha.  I have learned my numbers and try and learn the name of the fruit or vegetable that I want but they still look at me funny so I usually smile and point and use my fingers.  Often times, I give them the money, and I am wrong.  So........I extend my arm, open my hand and let them take the coins for me.   Ah, humility.

I love the way the French merchandise their food.  Don't you just want to take these little baskets of goodness home and set them on your kitchen counter?  I love all the baskets and crates, the slate boards and the chalk "curly q" writing. 

I just loved watching this little man.  I named him "Jacque".  He shuffled along with his cart from vendor to vendor.  He was very serious about his shopping.  He dressed for the market, a turtleneck underneath a suit.  You've got to appreciate that. 

I would have loved to share an espresso with him and hear a little about his life  We each have a story, I wanted to know his.