It’s that time of the year folks!
Farmers are harvesting their crops. Crafters are putting the finishing stitches or touches on their projects. Canners are busy in the kitchen prepping their beans, pickles and jams. And bakers are flouring their rolling pins.
It’s time to once again gaze upon the talents, the dedication of growers and small businesses alike, displayed in rows of booths, under tents, and spread across tables.
This Saturday morning, and every Saturday morning until Dec. 18, Guffey Park will host the Wharton County Farmers Market.
Those who have never experienced the market may wonder what all of the fuss is about.
The explanation would not necessarily be a one liner. Sure, the market is a way for members of the community to find one-of-a-kind items and the freshest produce around.
Sure, you’re going to see a friend or two whom you’ve been meaning to catch up with. You’re absolutely destined to enjoy the live music, see new faces to further learn about the community and its people.
But the most pertinent takeaway from the Wharton County Farmers Market is the passion vendors have for their product, their farms and their way of life.
You’ll learn that little Henley found a passion for raising chickens and pheasant at the age of 6.
And Olivia, before losing her baby teeth, created a full-fledged business by merging lollipops and business promotional products.
You’ll discover how a small goat farm survives through the sale of their homemade soap.
How globe-championed cattle are raised, processed and delivered to your table directly from Wharton County pastures.
You’ll learn how a father and mother are paying for their children’s tuition by hand pouring and crafting candle products from their converted garage.
You’ll taste great grandmothers’ recipes that have not changed in decades and continue to be unmatched by any factory or mass-producing bakery.
It’s the passion. It’s the feeling of community spirit and camaraderie. It’s keeping small businesses alive.
So when you wake Saturday morning, head to downtown Wharton. Peruse the community’s fruits of labor.
On Saturday, we shop small.
For more information about the Wharton County Farmers Market, visit them on Facebook.