This past Saturday was the opening day
of the farmers' markets here in Lincoln County.
The market in Lincolnton is small, but growing,
and hosts an array of local goodies for shoppers.
Many folks eschew the grocery store in favor of fresh,
locally grown produce.
Starter plants and flowers in lovely displays were also available.
A few beauties were picked up at this table for some of my beds at home.
Members of the Rose Society donated plants from their personal gardens
to raise money for their organization.
Most plants were $3, quite the bargain!
At this booth, organic personal care preparations could be had.
A multitude of lip balms, lotions, shampoos and beard products was offered.
All items at the farmers' market must be grown or made
within a 50-mile radius of the downtown location.
Can't get more local than that!
One of my favorite vendors,
Black Sheep Farmstead,
always furnishes a wonderful collection of soaps.
A couple of things may have made it into my bag.
The Master Gardeners set up a booth once a month
to answer gardening questions, share gardening experiences,
and provide an interactive activity for visitors.
My friend Jannah and I,
who both graduated from the Master Gardener class last spring,
were giving away seeds so that folks could get their gardens started.
The seeds were generously donated to the Extension Center,
and we are giving them away every chance we get.
Just look at all the potential in that basket!
We also created a seed sowing station
for kids to understand the value in recycling
and using what they already have at home.
The basket of paper towel and toilet paper rolls
was readied for them.
We simply made mini pots by slitting and folding the bottoms.
This is a great way to repurpose an otherwise throwaway item.
The whole kit-n-kaboodle can be planted in the ground.
A little soil and their choice of seed was all it took.
It was so encouraging to see these wee ones excited about planting.
The first market of the season went off without a hitch.
We had plenty of visitors and the vendors had many repeat customers.
Feeling blessed to be a part of such a wonderful community activity.
Do you frequent the farmers' market where you live?
Lovely! Even before we were selling at a farmer's market, attending was something we looked forward to every week. It's nice to be able to converse with the makers/growers and it's a great place to meet up with others who have similar interests. So nice that you have a local one to enjoy!
ReplyDeleteYes, that was one of our requirements before buying a house. We knew we wanted to be close to a farmers' market. What a blessing to be able to buy local goods.
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