It is such a treat to bite into the lushness of a freshly picked strawberry. Over time, I have noticed that many farms have moved further out of cities’ making it much more difficult for a farmer to provide their delicious food
at a farm stand. Because of this move away from population centers, finding a way to collectively sell wares, is what farmers have been doing for awhile now, establishing a community of weekly farmer’s market vendors - where the food & other offerings are seasonal in focus, but annual in scope.
It is such fun to discover what each farmer’s market might provide-as each is different. You could create a visual or written shopping list for your household. Another idea would be to plan a scavenger hunt for the kids in your life - (it’s sure to have them wishing to return to the
market next week!).
A wonderful way to support your local economy and to keep your family’s diet seasonal and fresh is to visit your local farmer’s market before you shop at the grocery store. Many farmer’s markets have websites specifying what is in season at the moment. I find that there are several types of foods offered: fruits, vegetables, meats, seafood, eggs, breads, chocolate and so much more. A fun challenge I enjoy taking as the season becomes ripe with diverse produce is to skip the grocery store altogether, and utilize what I find at the farmer’s
market. Not only is it local not overly-produced and fresh, but; it is usually much less expensive!
Another incredible opportunity that may be available in your area is the usage of WIC FMBP or EBT cards. These are now readily accepted as a way to provide fresh fruits and vegetables to families that may need a little extra financial assistance. Many markets also support Senior FMBP, so those who live on a retirement or fixed income can also reap the rewards of fresh food.
Early in the season, many farmer’s will have seedlings
The Joys of the
Farmer's Market
By Natasha Botkin
July 2016 | ElementsForAHealthierLife.com | 41