As the farmer's market season winds down, we are gifted with abundant farm fresh produce. The produce vendors at the market are overflowing with fresh produce. There is sweet corn, apples, grapes, pears, root vegetables, fresh greens, and a plethora I haven't touched upon. It's a lovely time of year at the farmer's market. This time of year, we are often gifted fresh produce or barter with our vendor friends in exchange for fresh produce for soap. I enjoy bartering.
This week, we have enjoyed simple meals made from fresh produce from the market. We have had BLTs with Yarnick's sweet corn, grilled chicken salads made with greens from Star Crossed Naturals, and fresh tomato sandwiches made with the sweetest green tomatoes I have ever eaten. We have also enjoyed fresh sourdough bread and delicious white bread from Mediterra Bakery. I bought the sweetest, juiciest apples from JP's Produce. Of course, we must have cheese from our friends at Pleasant Lane Farms. It's easy to come up with quick, delicious meals when gifted with such fresh, tasty food.
My gentle suggestion this week, instead of a recipe, is to enjoy the season's bounty. Support your local farmers by buying farm-fresh produce directly from the grower. The grocery store offers nothing compared to what these hard-working, knowledgeable individuals offer from their local farms. If you live in our area, there are a variety of local farm stands to support. Yarnick's Farms offers the sweetest sweet corn, fresh produce, locally raised beef, and canned goods. Lone Oak Farms has a beautiful store that offers fresh dairy products (including the best chocolate milk ever) and locally raised meats and produce. Look for little farm stands along the country roads selling fresh, free-range eggs, flowers, and produce. Often, these little stands offer the most delicious varieties grown by families and garden enthusiasts. You might also be supporting a child's college fund, funding a missionary trip, or helping a little one save enough money to purchase their first pony. I prefer to support local families rather than feed Walmart's bottom line.
Now more than ever, our small farms and family farms need your support. It's not only better quality food raised with integrity; it's also supporting individuals in our community. On this lovely September day, enjoy the bounty of the season, support your local farm families, eat simply and fresh, and keep washing your hands.
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