It seems like this was the fastest summer on record I can remember but that’s not saying much because there’s more and more I can’t remember. This Saturday will be the last farmers market of the season for 2014.
I feel it’s been a good year for the market, our vendors and want to thank all of our great customers for their continued support. Everyone always asks can’t it go just a little bit longer, but the crowds are thinning, the fruit is waning and I’m tired.
I’ve canned jams, jellies, pickles, tomato sauce and every week my frig has been loaded with fresh fruits and veggies.
I’m going to savor the last of the farm fresh tomatoes, peaches, plums and melons. I don’t eat them when they are not in season. After you eat the tomatoes and fruit from the market it’s just not worth eating the same fruit from the store. Just a reminder the fresh eggs from Sherry in Silver Springs being sold at the market are going to be available at Butler Meats from now on. He got his first delivery this week.
I’m looking forward to fall my favorite time of the year in Nevada. I’m going to try and slow down a little and enjoy the beauty of our town and state. I like the mornings are already starting to be a little cooler. I know no one likes to hear the “C” word this early but now is a good time to start thinking about Christmas and stock up on some items from the market that will make your December easier.
Start with a nice bottle of olive oil or lotion to tuck in a gift basket. Campie’s Lavender has some great products anyone would enjoy. Lattin Farms has Hearts of Gold Cantelope jam that’s really delicious. The Marbelous booth will be at the market this week and any and all of her marbles would make great stocking stuffers. Carol Brown has some beautiful personalized stationary and cards. Our new vendor Sierra Pak can take care of the hunter on your list. Our two jewelry vendors always have a nice array and you can pick up a piece of pottery to put those special cookies or baked goods on.
My recipe for this week is to come to the market and get a fresh tomato and purple onion to put on that hamburger you are going to grill.
Buy that ground beef from Holly Farms or All Natural Nevada. Almost every Saturday after the market we have BLTs for dinner. I love the bacon from Butler Meats paired with a loaf of bread from LA Bakery. I want to buy a last pound cake from Lattin Farms and put some sliced strawberries on it. Minton Farms had pomegranates last week.
So swing buy all your favorite farmers and tell them how much you appreciated them being at the market and you’re already looking forward to seeing them next year! Ask them for their cards and if they are on Facebook. It’s a good way to keep up with what’s going on with everyone throughout the year.
One a last note I want to welcome Ed, Michelle and Mitch Nadalin to the neighborhood. They bought our old house on Minnesota Street and will be moving here from Dayton. They are going to be a great fit for that house and I hope they have many great times and memories in their future.
Linda Marrone is a longtime Carson resident, manages the 3rd & Curry Street Farmers Market and is the director of Nevada Certified Farmers Market Association.