Lake Region's Farmer's Market

Saturday was the most wonderful beginning to May imaginable. The sun was out, the horrendous winds that had swept the area the previous two days had passed, and best of all it was the official beginning of "farmer's market season"- Hey!! We have a "season" for everything else. . .

This was a first both for Pearson's Town and for myself. I have been frequenting farmer's markets since I can remember. Never before, though, had I the opportunity to be on the "farmer" side of the tent. Truth be told it really isn't a good place for me, I hate selling people things that I could just give them, especially if it will promote good eating habits and long life. Fortunately for all involved Michael H. (SJC '10) and Molly K. (who is having as hard a time leaving the farm as Chris Brandes is) were there to help!!!

Up at the crack of dawn, Michael was assembling the necessary business supplies and setting up our site, while Molly hit the hoops to harvest head lettuce, radishes and braising mixes. With eggs collectedand tomato starts a la Matt O., we were off. I ran courier between Molly and Michael making sure that we had what we needed. Oh. . . before I forget - Many, many thanks to Mrs. Boulay the wonderfully handy "better half" of Saint Joe's own Garry who randomly showed up at the farm to help weed. That was great!!!! Thank you ma'am!!!

The Lake Region's Farmer's Market gang is amazing. They were all there and available to help us newbies (especially Scott from Penny Farthing Farm). In no time we were open and the people came. It was a surprisingly steady day for the first day of the market, and all told Pearson's Town did pretty good. I was especially pleased that we were able to demonstrate the ability to grow winter produce by being the only farm to offer fresh produce.Our produce supply was sparse to be sure, but there was some to be had, and it was gobbled right up!
Our offerings at the market will increase as the veggies come into season. Already we are seeing pea flowers, the carrots are sending out true leaves, and (if the ground hogs will leave us be this year) we have a healthy bunch of started cabbage and broccoli.

For me one of the highlights of the day was the number of folks from the area surrounding Saint Joe's that came out and talked to us. They all mentioned seeing our sign on the road and more than a number of times they asked if we will have a "market" at the farm. From conversation it seems that a common thread amongst "our neighborhood" is that the people would like see the farm become a kind of place for the community to come get produce and be together. It sounds right up my alley!
So, to everyone from the Whites Bridge Road community that came out to see us - Thank you for the support. You all have my word that if the Good Lord smiles on our fields this year we will have some sort of community and good veggies at the farm!!