Bluegrass Farmers Market

The countdown continues...

only 3 more weeks!

It seems like we were just announcing the opening of the 2011 market season and now here we are counting down the weeks until we close for the season! It's kinda sad and it makes me wish we had a longer warm season, but...we do live in Kentucky and you never know what the weather will be like! Lol Heck, parts of the state have already had frost. EEK!!! Then you travel a mere 20 miles and they are having a heat wave. Welcome to Kentucky! :)

I guess what I am trying to say is I can only give you a hint of what will be available this week because all of the farmers said it depended on the weather.

Here are the “for sure” items...

Jams

Baked Goods

Herb Seasoning

Garlic

Pumpkins

Cut Flowers

Homemade Soap

Eggs

Potatoes

Sweet Potatoes

Winter Squash

Cabbage

Onions

Here are the “depends on the weather” items...

Tomatoes

Corn

Green Beans

Squash

Peppers

Okra

Cucumbers

Raspberries

Eggplant

Melons

Shiitake Mushrooms

Honestly, that's not such a bad list of “for sure” items and Mother Nature has been fairly nice this week so I anticipate the “depends on the weather” items to be at the market as well. You can be assured that whatever makes it to the Bluegrass Farmers' Market is 100% homegrown or produced...we guarantee it!

~*~ 2011 MARKET HOURS ~*~

Richmond Rd. Market

Saturday 9 until 2 or until sold out

Tuesday 3 until 6:30 or sold out

We'll be set up in the beautiful tree lined parking lot of Pedal the Planet and Fast Signs, right next door to the Glenn Auto Mall on Richmond Rd. It's just a hop, skip and a jump outside of Man 'O War Blvd. Parking is right there so you don't have to drive around hunting for a spot to park. The parking lot is also paved and that makes it very stroller and wheelchair friendly!

Mill Pond Shopping Center Market

Thank you so much for your support at our new market...we are now closed for the 2011 season

Saturday 9 until 2 or until sold out...CLOSED FOR THE SEASON

Thursday 3 until 6:30 or sold out...CLOSED FOR THE SEASON

We'll be set up in the shopping center with plenty of free parking. Look for us near the corner of Boston Rd. and Man 'O War Blvd.

The Bluegrass Farmers' Market

is Lexington's largest

100% homegrown/produced farmers market!

And, each farmer is certified...

KENTUCKY PROUD!

And, you voted us #1 in Kentucky!

~*~*~*DON'T FORGET~*~*~*

WE ARE OPEN

THROUGH OCTOBER 29TH!

 

~*~*~The countdown has begun~*~*~

Only 4 more weeks of the 2011 Bluegrass Farmers' Market season left!

Wow, where did the summer go? It feels like I was just harvesting lettuce and then the seasons first tomato. I have to admit that I am going to miss my garden fresh tomatoes...the ones at the grocery store taste like cardboard to me. I am going to make sure that we sit down and enjoy what will probably be the last bacon, basil and tomato sandwich for the year. Please, I need some (((hugs))) because I can feel the tears starting already!

Okay, I need to get back on track and enjoy the last four weeks of 100% homegrown goodness! Maybe some wonderful squash and maybe a pumpkin pie. How about some grilled eggplant with wonderful shiitake mushrooms. I'm feeling a bit better. Oh my, I think I might even be able to get some green beans and broccoli! How could I pass up the sweet taters and onions...or the peppers. Alright, I am darn near back to normal! I could start the day off with some farm fresh eggs and toast with homemade jam. Lunch could be a perfectly seasoned soup or maybe even chili with a fabulous zucchini chocolate cake for dessert. Dinner has already been reserved for my aforementioned BBT sandwich. Yes, I am a happy camper once again. :)

Geez, I was so darn busy thinking about the “right now” that I didn't even think about stocking up on the “must haves” for winter. Honey, garlic, herb seasoning, homemade soap and of course the jam! And, I do believe that I will shop while enjoying a homemade pumpkin cookie!

Yes, everything will be available this Saturday at the Bluegrass Farmers' Market Richmond Rd. location! The weather folks are promising a warm and sunny day...much better than last week. So call a friend and come visit us as we count down the season. We want to remember our customers smiling faces!!!!

~*~ 2011 MARKET HOURS ~*~

Richmond Rd. Market

Saturday 9 until 2 or until sold out

Tuesday 3 until 6:30 or sold out

We'll be set up in the beautiful tree lined parking lot of Pedal the Planet and Fast Signs, right next door to the Glenn Auto Mall on Richmond Rd. It's just a hop, skip and a jump outside of Man 'O War Blvd. Parking is right there so you don't have to drive around hunting for a spot to park. The parking lot is also paved and that makes it very stroller and wheelchair friendly!

Mill Pond Shopping Center Market

Thank you so much for your support at our new market...we are now closed for the 2011 season

Saturday 9 until 2 or until sold out...CLOSED FOR THE SEASON

Thursday 3 until 6:30 or sold out...CLOSED FOR THE SEASON

We'll be set up in the shopping center with plenty of free parking. Look for us near the corner of Boston Rd. and Man 'O War Blvd.

The Bluegrass Farmers' Market

is Lexington's largest

100% homegrown/produced farmers market!

And, each farmer is certified...

KENTUCKY PROUD!

And, you voted us #1 in Kentucky!

~*~*~*DON'T FORGET~*~*~*

WE ARE OPEN

THROUGH OCTOBER 29TH!

It's fall at the Bluegrass Farmers' Market!

That means plenty of cool weather goodness, like acorn and butternut squash, cabbage, sweet potatoes, eggplant and those wonderful pie pumpkins! But, some summer goodies are still available too...like tomatoes, green beans, peppers, watermelons, okra and garlic!

Here's a few extra special items that our farmers will have above and beyond the usual fall and summer fare...

McMaine's Riverhaven Farm has grown a really unique Japanese pumpkin/squash called Kabocha. It has an exceptional sweet flavor...even sweeter than butternut squash! It can be used in side dishes, soups, pies and even as tempura! By the way, don't pass up some of Linda's great home baked goods, they are to die for!

If you are looking for farm fresh eggs then you need to visit the Greeley Farm booth! James has delicious shiitake mushrooms too! And, just in case you didn't know, he drives all the way from Campton each Saturday so that he can bring you the freshest and the best.

Jams are always a big thing at farmers markets and we are lucky enough to have some of the best fruit jams available at Caludi's Fields booth. Judi will be more than happy to help you with a selection!

Karin and Drew at Herb'n Renewal will have their fall/winter best seller available in abundance this Saturday...Chili Season'n! It goes along with their other 23 blends!!! Karin has also been busy in the soap shop, so stop by and visit them for some great flavors and scents!

Want flowers? There's only one place to go and that is to Jane at Jane's Garden, Flowers & Herbs! Jane makes our market light up with the bright colors. Hey, she's also our garlic and basil gal!!!

These are just a few of the wonderful items that will be available this Saturday at the #1 farmers market in Kentucky!!!!

Here's another great thing happening on Saturday...and Sunday! After you visit the Bluegrass Farmers' Market take the short drive out Richmond Rd. to Old Richmond Rd. right across from Jacobson Park and go 4 miles...turn left and you'll see the Botanica sign! In case you don't recognize the name Botanica, it's our very own Vicki...the herb and plant gal from the market. She's having a pumpkin harvest at her farm this weekend! All sorts of fun things including a petting barn, corn hole games, corn maze, search for the “money” pumpkins and even a photo session with an “old tractor!” Give her a holler if you need more information at (859) 806-9424.

Once again, we want to thank all of our loyal customers for their continued support during our 2011 market season. It's not easy being the 100% homegrown/produced market in town because our market tends to be smaller during the spring and fall because we do not allow any vendors who resell...we grow, raise, bake or produce what we offer for sale!

~*~ 2011 MARKET HOURS ~*~

Richmond Rd. Market

Saturday 9 until 2 or until sold out

Tuesday 3 until 6:30 or sold out

We'll be set up in the beautiful tree lined parking lot of Pedal the Planet and Fast Signs, right next door to the Glenn Auto Mall on Richmond Rd. It's just a hop, skip and a jump outside of Man 'O War Blvd. Parking is right there so you don't have to drive around hunting for a spot to park. The parking lot is also paved and that makes it very stroller and wheelchair friendly!

Mill Pond Shopping Center Market

Saturday 9 until 2 CLOSED FOR THE SEASON

Thursday 3 until 6:30 CLOSED FOR THE SEASON

We'll be set up in the shopping center with plenty of free parking. Look for us near the corner of Boston Rd. and Man 'O War Blvd. SEE YA IN APRIL 2012! Thank you for a great first year! :)

The Bluegrass Farmers' Market

is Lexington's largest

100% homegrown/produced farmers market!

And, each farmer is certified...

KENTUCKY PROUD!

And, you voted us #1 in Kentucky!

~*~*~*DON'T FORGET~*~*~*

WE ARE OPEN

THROUGH OCTOBER 29TH!

Well, today is the last day of summer. Tomorrow starts the autumnal equinox...fall! Did you know that on the first day of the autumnal equinox the day and night are each about 12 hours long (with the actual time of equal day and night, in the Northern Hemisphere, occurring a few days after the autumnal equinox). The Sun crosses the celestial equator going southward; it rises exactly due east and sets exactly due west. So, does anyone know when the days and nights in Kentucky are equal? I get so confused with all of this technical stuff. Lol I just know that the fall veggies are coming on strong so it must have something to do with the length of the days!

As long as I am filling you all in on some facts, how about a few more...

What gives leaves their red color? Glucose trapped in the leaves. Brown comes from the waste trapped there. The red and purple color come from anthocyanin pigments formed in the dying leaves. Its the same pigment which is common in purple grapes, red apples and violets.

Pumpkins are 90% water!

Pumpkins were once recommended for removing freckles and curing snake bites!

Apples are a member of the rose family!

Fresh apples float because 25% of their volume is air!

Egg Yolks are one of the few foods that naturally contain

vitamin D!

Lettuce is a member of the sunflower family!

Celery has negative calories...it takes more calories to eat celery than it originally

had to begin with!

Broccoli good news...we're eating 900% more than we did 20 years ago!

Don't you feel a wee bit smarter after reading these interesting facts? I know I did when I saw them!

Now for the best news...what's going to be available at the market this Saturday!

RICHMOND RD. MARKET

TOMATOES

heirlooms too!

GREEN BEANS

greasy

1/2 runner

blue lake

dade

northeastern

SQUASH

yellow

zucchini

patty pan

cushaw

butternut

hubbard

CUCUMBERS

pickling & slicers

OKRA

POTATOES

SWEET POTATOES

ONIONS

PEPPERS (HOT and MILD)

EGGPLANT

GARLIC

MUSHROOMS

WATERMELON (SEEDLESS ONES TOO)

PUMPKINS

RASPBERRIES

EGGS

HERB SEASONING

JAMS & FRUIT BUTTERS

FRESH CUT FLOWERS

CUT HERBS

MUMS

HERB PLANTS

BAKED GOODS

HOMEMADE SOAP

Hope everyone had a great time decorating their pumpkins last week!

MILL POND SHOPPING CENTER

Limited participation on Saturday and the Thursday market is closed for the season.

~*~ 2011 MARKET HOURS ~*~

Richmond Rd. Market

Saturday 9 until 2 or until sold out

Tuesday 3 until 6:30 or sold out

We'll be set up in the beautiful tree lined parking lot of Pedal the Planet and Fast Signs, right next door to the Glenn Auto Mall on Richmond Rd. It's just a hop, skip and a jump outside of Man 'O War Blvd. Parking is right there so you don't have to drive around hunting for a spot to park. The parking lot is also paved and that makes it very stroller and wheelchair friendly!

Mill Pond Shopping Center Market

Saturday 9 until 2 or until sold out...very limited participation

Thursday 3 until 6:30 or sold out...CLOSED FOR THE SEASON

We'll be set up in the shopping center with plenty of free parking. Look for us near the corner of Boston Rd. and Man 'O War Blvd.

The Bluegrass Farmers' Market

is Lexington's largest

100% homegrown/produced farmers market!

And, each farmer is certified...

KENTUCKY PROUD!

And, you voted us #1 in Kentucky!

~*~*~*DON'T FORGET~*~*~*

WE ARE OPEN

THROUGH OCTOBER 29TH!

Fall is darn near here and the Bluegrass Farmers' Market is going to celebrate the season change a wee bit early. In fact, it's this Saturday at the Richmond Rd. location. We're going to be celebrate a curcurbit variety...a little round, orange one to be exact. It's Pumpkin Day at the market! Kids of all ages get to decorate their very own pumpkin. We'll supply the markers, the stick-ons and the pumpkin...you supply the creativity! I can't wait to see what our kiddo customers come up with. :)

Just because fall is headed our way doesn't mean that the summer goodness has left the market. There's still plenty of fruits and veggies that we associate with the warm months, like tomatoes and melons.

Here's a bit of what you'll find at the Bluegrass Farmers' Market this Saturday...

RICHMOND RD. MARKET

~*~*~*~* PUMPKIN DAY ~*~*~*~*

THIS SATURDAY!

CORN

TOMATOES

heirlooms too!

GREEN BEANS

greasy

1/2 runner

blue lake

dade

northeastern

SQUASH

yellow

zucchini

patty pan

cushaw

butternut

hubbard

CUCUMBERS

pickling & slicers

OKRA

POTATOES

SWEET POTATOES

ONIONS

PEPPERS (HOT and MILD)

CABBAGE

EGGPLANT

CARROTS

GARLIC

SHALLOTS

MUSHROOMS

WATERMELON (SEEDLESS ONES TOO)

PUMPKINS

DECORATIVE CORN

APPLES

PEARS

PEACHES

RASPBERRIES

EGGS

BEEF

HERB SEASONING

JAMS & FRUIT BUTTERS

FRESH CUT FLOWERS

CUT HERBS (STEVIA, BASIL & MINT)

MUMS

HERB PLANTS

JAM CAKES

HOMEMADE SOAP

MILL POND SHOPPING CENTER

Sorry, no report this week. It will be a surprise for everyone!

~*~ 2011 MARKET HOURS ~*~

Richmond Rd. Market

Saturday 9 until 2 or until sold out

Tuesday 3 until 6:30 or sold out

We'll be set up in the beautiful tree lined parking lot of Pedal the Planet and Fast Signs, right next door to the Glenn Auto Mall on Richmond Rd. It's just a hop, skip and a jump outside of Man 'O War Blvd. Parking is right there so you don't have to drive around hunting for a spot to park. The parking lot is also paved and that makes it very stroller and wheelchair friendly!

Mill Pond Shopping Center Market

Saturday 9 until 2 or until sold out

Thursday 3 until 6:30 or sold out...very limited farmer participation

We'll be set up in the shopping center with plenty of free parking. Look for us near the corner of Boston Rd. and Man 'O War Blvd.

The Bluegrass Farmers' Market

is Lexington's largest

100% homegrown/produced farmers market!

And, each farmer is certified...

KENTUCKY PROUD!

And, you voted us #1 in Kentucky!

Yup, I do believe that fall is on its way! This cool weather has been a welcome change from the high 90's we had last week. But, unfortunately it also means that some of the summer goodness is about to make its last showing at the market. The local peaches will be in short supply and the cantaloupes have all but disappeared. The good news is they are making room for the wonderful fall/winter squash and broccoli!

Once again, we have to thank all of our loyal customers for voting for the Bluegrass Farmers' Market in the America's Favorite Farmers Market contest. Just in case you hadn't heard...we were voted #1 in Kentucky for the second year in a row! We certainly do appreciate you continued support.

Now, on to the important stuff...what's gonna be at the market this week provided the rain didn't wipe the crops out!

RICHMOND RD. MARKET

CORN

TOMATOES (ALL VARIETIES INCLUDING HEIRLOOMS!)

GREEN BEANS

SQUASH

CUCUMBERS

OKRA

POTATOES

ONIONS

PEPPERS (HOT and MILD)

CABBAGE

EGGPLANT

CARROTS

GARLIC

SHALLOTS

MUSHROOMS

WATERMELON (SEEDLESS ONES TOO)

APPLES

RASPBERRIES

EGGS

HERB SEASONING

JAMS & FRUIT BUTTERS

FRESH CUT FLOWERS

CUT HERBS (STEVIA, BASIL & MINT)

JAM CAKES

FRIED FRUIT PIES

DONUTS

HOMEMADE SOAP

MILL POND SHOPPING CENTER

Sorry, no report this week. It will be a surprise for everyone!

~*~*~* Mark your calendars *~*~*~

Pumpkin Day

September 17^th

Kids of all ages get to decorate their very own pumpkin!

~*~ 2011 MARKET HOURS ~*~

Richmond Rd. Market

Saturday 9 until 2 or until sold out

Tuesday 3 until 6:30 or sold out

We'll be set up in the beautiful tree lined parking lot of Pedal the Planet and Fast Signs, right next door to the Glenn Auto Mall on Richmond Rd. It's just a hop, skip and a jump outside of Man 'O War Blvd. Parking is right there so you don't have to drive around hunting for a spot to park. The parking lot is also paved and that makes it very stroller and wheelchair friendly!

Mill Pond Shopping Center Market

Saturday 9 until 2 or until sold out

Thursday 3 until 6:30 or sold out...very limited farmer participation

We'll be set up in the shopping center with plenty of free parking. Look for us near the corner of Boston Rd. and Man 'O War Blvd.

The Bluegrass Farmers' Market

is Lexington's largest

100% homegrown/produced farmers market!

And, each farmer is certified...

KENTUCKY PROUD!

And, you voted us #1 in Kentucky!

****************************

Before I close this edition of our weekly blog, I would like to add something.

This weekend is one of remembrance. Ten years ago, the people of the United States of America saw first hand what an attack on our soil can do to a nation. Instead of falling apart, we came together as one and supported those that needed us. I am choosing to celebrate the lives of those that were lost on September 11, 2001...may they never be forgotten.

Thank you loyal customers! You voted and we won! The Bluegrass Farmers' Market was voted #1 in Kentucky for the second year in a row!!!

You have no idea how much our farmers appreciate your confidence and support. Being a small, totally homegrown/produced farmers market is not easy. We don't have the variety of fruits and vegetables available year round like the big markets. But, that's because we only sell what we grow, raise, make or bake! It's really nice to know that you all appreciate our homegrown goodness.

Wow, I am soooooo excited so just bear with me if I go off track and grin for a second while I am typing this. :)

~*~*~* Mark your calendars *~*~*~

Pumpkin Day

September 17^th

Kids get to decorate their very own pumpkin!

This will be such a fun day for kids of all ages...

decorate a pumpkin and take it home to enjoy!

We'll supply everything except the imagination!

Okay, back to business as usual with a smile! :)

Folks have been asking how long the market continues.  For some reason it seems like people think that we close once school starts.  NOPE, we grow plenty of fall season goodness too!  In fact, pumpkins and Indian corn made their first showing this past Saturday.  The Bluegrass Farmers' Market is open through October 29th! :)

There is still plenty of summer goodness available this week...

 RICHMOND RD. MARKET

Many farmers will still have recipes available! :)

CORN

TOMATOES (ALL VARIETIES INCLUDING HEIRLOOMS!)

GREEN BEANS

COW PEAS

SQUASH

CUCUMBERS

OKRA

POTATOES

ONIONS

PEPPERS (HOT and MILD)

CABBAGE

EGGPLANT

CARROTS

GARLIC

SHALLOTS

MUSHROOMS

CANTALOUPES

WATERMELON (SEEDLESS ONES TOO)

PEACHES

APPLES

RASPBERRIES

EGGS

HERB SEASONING

JAMS & FRUIT BUTTERS

FRESH CUT FLOWERS

CUT HERBS (STEVIA, BASIL & MINT)

JAM CAKES

FRIED FRUIT PIES

DONUTS

MILL POND SHOPPING CENTER

Don't forget the Thursday market! :)

CORN

TOMATOES (HEIRLOOMS TOO!)

GREEN BEANS

ONIONS

PEPPERS

POTATOES

SQUASH

CUCUMBERS

WATERMELONS

CANTALOUPES

SQUASH

ZUCCHINI

EGGPLANT

CABBAGE

PEACHES

APPLES

AND, BOTH MARKETS ARE GUARANTEED TO HAVE SOME SURPRISES! :)

~*~ 2011 MARKET HOURS ~*~

Richmond Rd. Market

Saturday 9 until 2 or until sold out

Tuesday 3 until 6:30 or sold out

We'll be set up in the beautiful tree lined parking lot of Pedal the Planet and Fast Signs, right next door to the Glenn Auto Mall on Richmond Rd. It's just a hop, skip and a jump outside of Man 'O War Blvd. Parking is right there so you don't have to drive around hunting for a spot to park. The parking lot is also paved and that makes it very stroller and wheelchair friendly!

Mill Pond Shopping Center Market

Saturday 9 until 2 or until sold out

Thursday 3 until 6:30 or sold out

We'll be set up in the shopping center with plenty of free parking. Look for us near the corner of Boston Rd. and Man 'O War Blvd.

The Bluegrass Farmers' Market

is Lexington's largest

100% homegrown/produced farmers market!

And, each farmer is certified...

KENTUCKY PROUD!

~*~*~*~*~*~*

Did you catch me smiling? :)

The cool weather is sneaking its way into Kentucky. I really don't mind except for the fact that it means those veggies that love the summer heat will start to dwindle. But, the cool air also means those great veggies that love the cool air will be abundant. It won't be long before I say goodbye to my beautiful basil while welcoming that crisp broccoli. I guess it's a win win situation and one that farmers and shoppers look forward to each year...season changing and the thought of different varieties at the market! I was reminded of this on Saturday...the first pumpkins made a showing!

But, not to worry...we still have plenty of summer goodness available at Lexington's largest 100% homegrown/produced farmers market! Yup, honest to gosh homegrown corn, tomatoes, green beans, cucumbers, squash, onions, garlic, eggplant, potatoes, raspberries and more will be available at the Richmond Rd. market today from 3 until 6:30!

We're asking for your support one last time...the voting for America's Favorite Farmers Market ends on August 31^st at midnight. That means you only have 2 more days to vote for the Bluegrass Farmers' Market. We were voted #1 in Kentucky last year and we're out in front this year...but only by a small margin. So we need your vote!

http://action.farmland.org/site/PageServer?pagename=Market_Vote&searchTerm=bluegrass+farmers+market&x=29&y=17

~*~ 2011 MARKET HOURS ~*~

Richmond Rd. Market

Saturday 9 until 2 or until sold out

Tuesday 3 until 6:30 or sold out

We'll be set up in the beautiful tree lined parking lot of Pedal the Planet and Fast Signs, right next door to the Glenn Auto Mall on Richmond Rd. It's just a hop, skip and a jump outside of Man 'O War Blvd. Parking is right there so you don't have to drive around hunting for a spot to park. The parking lot is also paved and that makes it very stroller and wheelchair friendly!

Mill Pond Shopping Center Market

Saturday 9 until 2 or until sold out

Thursday 3 until 6:30 or sold out

We'll be set up in the shopping center with plenty of free parking. Look for us near the corner of Boston Rd. and Man 'O War Blvd.

The Bluegrass Farmers' Market

is Lexington's largest

100% homegrown/produced farmers market!

And, each farmer is certified...

KENTUCKY PROUD!

~*~*~*~*~*~*

No matter how wonderful and fresh the fruits and veggies are the the Bluegrass Farmers' Market, sometimes you just need a little nudge to prepare something new and different! Well, the Richmond Rd. market is trying to help by having Recipe Day this Saturday. Farmers will have recipes available for many of the summer goodness at the market! Try a melon salsa, a zucchini crisp or maybe a fruit dump! Who knows, you might just discover a new family favorite at the market this Saturday. :)

Here's a bit of what you'll find this Saturday at Lexington's largest 100% homegrown/produced farmers market...

RICHMOND RD. MARKET

~~*~*~~ RECIPE DAY ~~*~*~~

CORN

TOMATOES (ALL VARIETIES INCLUDING HEIRLOOMS!)

GREEN BEANS

SQUASH

CUCUMBERS

POTATOES

ONIONS

PEPPERS (HOT and MILD)

CABBAGE

EGGPLANT

CARROTS

OKRA

GARLIC

SHALLOTS

MUSHROOMS

CANTALOUPES

WATERMELON (SEEDLESS ONES TOO)

PEACHES

APPLES

RASPBERRIES

EGGS

BEEF

HERB SEASONING

JAMS & FRUIT BUTTERS

FRESH CUT FLOWERS

CUT HERBS (STEVIA, BASIL & MINT)

JAM CAKES

FRIED FRUIT PIES

DONUTS

HOMEMADE SOAP

CATNIP

MILL POND SHOPPING CENTER

Don't forget the Thursday market!

CORN

TOMATOES (HEIRLOOMS TOO!)

GREEN BEANS

ONIONS

PEPPERS

POTATOES

SQUASH

CUCUMBERS

WATERMELONS

CANTALOUPES

SQUASH

ZUCCHINI

EGGPLANT

CABBAGE

PEACHES

APPLES

AND, BOTH MARKETS ARE GUARANTEED TO HAVE SOME SURPRISES!

~*~ 2011 MARKET HOURS ~*~

Richmond Rd. Market

Saturday 9 until 2 or until sold out

Tuesday 3 until 6:30 or sold out

We'll be set up in the beautiful tree lined parking lot of Pedal the Planet and Fast Signs, right next door to the Glenn Auto Mall on Richmond Rd. It's just a hop, skip and a jump outside of Man 'O War Blvd. Parking is right there so you don't have to drive around hunting for a spot to park. The parking lot is also paved and that makes it very stroller and wheelchair friendly!

Mill Pond Shopping Center Market

Saturday 9 until 2 or until sold out

Thursday 3 until 6:30 or sold out

We'll be set up in the shopping center with plenty of free parking. Look for us near the corner of Boston Rd. and Man 'O War Blvd.

The Bluegrass Farmers' Market

is Lexington's largest

100% homegrown/produced farmers market!

And, each farmer is certified...

KENTUCKY PROUD!

~*~*~*~*~*~*

IT'S TIME TO CAST YOUR VOTE!

We only have until August 31st to vote...

we need your help!!!!

We were voted #1 in the state of Kentucky last year thanks to you, our loyal customers! We hope we can do it again in 2011...we need your vote! Just click on the Bluegrass Farmers' Market link and cast your vote...tell your friends and family too! P.S. You can vote for more than one market, so if you visit another market vote for them too!

http://action.farmland.org/site/PageServer?pagename=Market_Vote&searchTerm=bluegrass+farmers+market&x=29&y=17

I thought long and hard about what to write this week and I have to admit that my brain wandered into some very nice places. I found myself smiling, almost grinning, quite a bit. The reason was mostly the farmers who make up the Bluegrass Farmers' Market. I walk through the market each week and ask each and every farmer if they will be at the next market, what they will be bringing and do they have anything new, so that I can pass it on to our customers in this blog. It's pretty much routine stuff and when you are a 100% homegrown market, the offerings don't really change much because we all live in Kentucky and we all grow basically the same thing...or so I thought! Boy oh boy, was I pleasantly surprised this past Saturday!!!

As I continue to smile while I am typing this, I look back at the various tables loaded with farm fresh goodness and the faces on the folks who grew that stuff. Yes, the faces looked a bit tired...but, heck most had been up before dawn harvesting or else they were picking in the dark the night before...they had every right to be tired! That's what it takes to be a 100% homegrown/produced farmers market...hard work, long hours and the ability to still smile on market day! :)

The next thought that made me smile from ear to ear was the fact that I saw more than the usual corn, tomatoes, green beans, peppers, squash, zucchini, etc. You know what I am talking about...the same old stuff no matter how great it tastes, it gets boring. We all need a change in our diet and I'll be darned if our farmers didn't bring it to the market this Saturday! WOW, greasy beans, edamame, leeks, shallots...to name just a few things. I was just really appreciative of our farmers who went above and beyond to grow something a wee bit different for our small market. I know that you'd expect to find things like this at large city markets...we're a small, young market with farmers who rely on their crops to survive and yet they took chances on something new. I mean, how great is that!!! I hope you understand my grins by now. :)

But, I am not going to stop there because the smiles and the pride in belonging to such a great farmers market gets even better. I'm sure every state holds a state fair. But, if you have never participated in one, you'll never know just how competitive they can be. As a plain old fair visitor, I just walk through the agricultural aisles with my jaw darn near on the floor. I wonder...how the heck did they grow that perfectly straight green bean. Wow, what a perfectly round and red tomato. Geez look at that adorable white pumpkin. And wish I could dip my finger into the golden honey! I know that if you have ever been to a state fair, you know exactly what I am talking about. There are all sorts of ribbons next to the winners...by the way, I consider everyone who makes it to the state fair a winner, but only a few make it to the top! So, I am sticking my chest out for the Bluegrass Farmers' Market and reporting that we had two big winners at the Kentucky State Fair this year!

Drum roll.....

HONEY DEW APIARY and owner, Keith Green was the Sweepstake winner in the Honey category...he won it all! Congratulations Keith! :)

OVERMAN'S BLUEGRASS FRUITS AND VEGETABLES won the Grand Champion White Halloween Pumpkin award along with many others. Cute/funny story that our farmers enjoyed...Kirby (husband) is the one we see selling at the market. Babette (wife) is the one who stays home and takes care of the farm stuff. To be fair...they both work the farm. When it came time to deliver the entries for the state fair, they arrived with a truck full of great stuff. Kirby took care of his entries and Babette took care of hers. There was still a few pumpkins left and being the gentleman (and hubby) that he is, Kirby let Babette pick first...she choose the winner! We all had a good laugh and chances are, Kirby will be hearing about his “loss” for quite some time.

That's what I mean when I talk about the smiles that the farmers at this market bring to my face. They are real folks, they work hard, they farm, they grow, they raise, they bake, they blend and they are constantly trying something new to make the Bluegrass Farmers' Market a great place to shop.

Thank you farmers and friends for my smiles...it keeps me wanting to be part of such a great community organization.

*******************************

~*~ 2011 MARKET HOURS ~*~

Richmond Rd. Market

Saturday 9 until 2 or until sold out

Tuesday 3 until 6:30 or sold out

We'll be set up in the beautiful tree lined parking lot of Pedal the Planet and Fast Signs, right next door to the Glenn Auto Mall on Richmond Rd. It's just a hop, skip and a jump outside of Man 'O War Blvd. Parking is right there so you don't have to drive around hunting for a spot to park. The parking lot is also paved and that makes it very stroller and wheelchair friendly!

Mill Pond Shopping Center Market

Saturday 9 until 2 or until sold out

Thursday 3 until 6:30 or sold out

We'll be set up in the shopping center with plenty of free parking. Look for us near the corner of Boston Rd. and Man 'O War Blvd.

The Bluegrass Farmers' Market

is Lexington's largest

100% homegrown/produced farmers market!

And, each farmer is certified...

KENTUCKY PROUD!

~*~*~*~*~*~*

IT'S TIME TO CAST YOUR VOTE!

Only a few more weeks to vote...we need your help!!!!

We were voted #1 in the state of Kentucky last year thanks to you, our loyal customers! We hope we can do it again in 2011...we need your vote! Just click on the Bluegrass Farmers' Market link and cast your vote...tell your friends and family too!

http://action.farmland.org/site/PageServer?pagename=Market_Vote&searchTerm=bluegrass+farmers+market&x=29&y=17

It's almost time for the Saturday markets but first you can enjoy the Thursday market at Mill Pond Shopping Center today! Our new satellite market is small but it has plenty of homegrown summer goodness available. Shop today from 3 until 6:30 or until our farmers are sold out.

Now, on to the Saturday markets! Both markets will be loaded down with 100% homegrown, farm fresh goodies...plus extras like jams, baked goods, homemade soaps and herb seasoning! Here's just a bit of what you'll find this week...

RICHMOND RD. MARKET

CORN

TOMATOES (ALL VARIETIES INCLUDING HEIRLOOMS!)

GREEN BEANS

GREASY BEANS (LIMITED SUPPLY)

COW PEAS

SQUASH

CUCUMBERS

OKRA

POTATOES

ONIONS

PEPPERS (HOT and MILD)

CABBAGE

EGGPLANT

CARROTS

GARLIC

SHALLOTS

MUSHROOMS

CANTALOUPES

WATERMELON (SEEDLESS ONES TOO)

PEACHES

APPLES

RASPBERRIES

EGGS

HERB SEASONING

JAMS & FRUIT BUTTERS

FRESH CUT FLOWERS

CUT HERBS (STEVIA, BASIL & MINT)

JAM CAKES

FRIED FRUIT PIES

DONUTS

MILL POND SHOPPING CENTER

Don't forget the Thursday market!

CORN

TOMATOES (HEIRLOOMS TOO!)

GREEN BEANS

ONIONS

PEPPERS

POTATOES

SQUASH

CUCUMBERS

WATERMELONS

CANTALOUPES

SQUASH

ZUCCHINI

EGGPLANT

CABBAGE

PEACHES

APPLES

AND, BOTH MARKETS ARE GUARANTEED TO HAVE SOME SURPRISES!

~*~ 2011 MARKET HOURS ~*~

Richmond Rd. Market

Saturday 9 until 2 or until sold out

Tuesday 3 until 6:30 or sold out

We'll be set up in the beautiful tree lined parking lot of Pedal the Planet and Fast Signs, right next door to the Glenn Auto Mall on Richmond Rd. It's just a hop, skip and a jump outside of Man 'O War Blvd. Parking is right there so you don't have to drive around hunting for a spot to park. The parking lot is also paved and that makes it very stroller and wheelchair friendly!

Mill Pond Shopping Center Market

Saturday 9 until 2 or until sold out

Thursday 3 until 6:30 or sold out

We'll be set up in the shopping center with plenty of free parking. Look for us near the corner of Boston Rd. and Man 'O War Blvd.

The Bluegrass Farmers' Market

is Lexington's largest

100% homegrown/produced farmers market!

And, each farmer is certified...

KENTUCKY PROUD!

~*~*~*~*~*~*

TIME TO CAST YOUR VOTE!

Only a few more weeks to vote...we need your help!!!!

We were voted #1 in the state of Kentucky last year thanks to you, our loyal customers! We hope we can do it again in 2011...we need your vote! Just click on the Bluegrass Farmers' Market link and cast your vote...tell your friends and family too! You can vote for more than one market this year, so if you have another favorite...vote for both of them!

http://action.farmland.org/site/PageServer?pagename=Market_Vote&searchTerm=bluegrass+farmers+market&x=29&y=17

IF WE WIN...

OUR CUSTOMERS

WIN TOO!

Welcome to a beautiful Tuesday in Lexington, Kentucky. :)

That can only mean one thing...a trip to the largest 100% homegrown/produced farmers market in town! That would be the Bluegrass Farmers' Market located at 3450 Richmond Rd. Don't be fooled by the other markets that claim to sell locally grown...we guarantee it!!!

You'll only find in season goodies because we are the homegrown farmers market! So, what will you find today? How about...

CORN

TOMATOES

ONIONS

POTATOES

PEPPERS (SWEET AND HOT)

EGGPLANT

GREEN BEANS

SQUASH

ZUCCHINI

CUCUMBERS

GARLIC

OKRA

MELONS

PEACHES

APPLES

RASPBERRIES

JAMS & JELLIES

CUT FLOWERS

FRESH CUT HERBS

PLUS, SO MUCH MORE!

~*~*~*~*~*~*

~*~ 2011 MARKET HOURS ~*~

Richmond Rd. Market

Saturday 9 until 2 or until sold out

Tuesday 3 until 6:30 or sold out

We'll be set up in the beautiful tree lined parking lot of Pedal the Planet and Fast Signs, right next door to the Glenn Auto Mall on Richmond Rd. It's just a hop, skip and a jump outside of Man 'O War Blvd. Parking is right there so you don't have to drive around hunting for a spot to park. The parking lot is also paved and that makes it very stroller and wheelchair friendly!

Mill Pond Shopping Center Market

Saturday 9 until 2 or until sold out

Thursday 3 until 6:30 or sold out

We'll be set up in the shopping center with plenty of free parking. Look for us near the corner of Boston Rd. and Man 'O War Blvd.

The Bluegrass Farmers' Market

is Lexington's only

100% homegrown/produced farmers market!

IT'S TIME TO CAST YOUR VOTE!

We were voted #1 in the state of Kentucky last year thanks to you, our loyal customers! We hope we can do it again in 2011...we need your vote! Just click on the Bluegrass Farmers' Market link and cast your vote...tell your friends and family too!

http://action.farmland.org/site/PageServer?pagename=Market_Vote&searchTerm=bluegrass+farmers+market&x=29&y=17

P.S. OOPS, we are slipping in Kentucky...keep telling your friends about our wonderful market so we can get back to number 1! And, you can vote for more than one market...so if you shop at two markets you can still vote for your other favorite.

We win....you win!

Yippee! I actually have the windows open this morning and there is a breeze and very little humidity! The weeds in our garden better watch out because I am going to be a pulling fool today. HaHa! I'm sure our farmers are thrilled too...working in the fields when the heat is oppressive is not easy on them.

This cooler weather means that it will be a great afternoon to shop at the Thursday Mill Pond satellite market! The farmers will be set up from 3 until 6:30 or until they sell out. Take the opportunity to get some homegrown goodness for dinner tonight!

So, what will shoppers be able to find at the Saturday markets? I know for a fact that you can prepare an entire days worth of meals...we do it regularly at our home! Eggs, berry pancakes or even just toast and jam for breakfast. A burger topped with tomatoes and onions, fresh homemade French fries and a big slice of watermelon for lunch.  And, for dinner how about a steak and grilled veggies...or maybe just a big plate of grilled zucchini, onions, tomatoes, cabbage, potatoes, eggplant, etc.! The list goes on as to what can be grilled...that includes melon! :)

Now for the great part...what's gonna be at the markets this Saturday!!!

RICHMOND RD. MARKET

CORN

TOMATOES (ALL VARIETIES INCLUDING HEIRLOOMS!)

GREEN BEANS

SQUASH

CUCUMBERS

POTATOES

ONIONS

PEPPERS (HOT and MILD)

CABBAGE

EGGPLANT

CARROTS

GARLIC

SHALLOTS

MUSHROOMS

CANTALOUPES

WATERMELON (SEEDLESS ONES TOO)

PEACHES

APPLES

BLACKBERRIES

RASPBERRIES

EGGS

BEEF

HONEY

HERB SEASONING

JAMS & FRUIT BUTTERS

FRESH CUT ZINNIAS & SUNFLOWERS!

CUT HERBS (STEVIA, BASIL & MINT)

HANGING HERB BASKETS

HERB & FLOWER PLANTS

JAM CAKES

FRIED FRUIT PIES

DONUTS

FRESH GRILLED HAMBURGERS

MILL POND SHOPPING CENTER

CORN

TOMATOES (HEIRLOOMS TOO!)

GREEN BEANS

ONIONS

PEPPERS

POTATOES

SQUASH

CUCUMBERS

WATERMELONS

CANTALOUPES

SQUASH

ZUCCHINI

EGGPLANT

CABBAGE

PEACHES

APPLES

AND, BOTH MARKETS ARE GUARANTEED TO HAVE SOME SURPRISES!

*** One of our farmers would like to take orders on fresh (never frozen) whole free range chickens. If you are interested, you can call John at Rejoicing Acres Farm at (606) 423-4864 for more information. ***

~*~ 2011 MARKET HOURS ~*~

Richmond Rd. Market

Saturday 9 until 2 or until sold out

Tuesday 3 until 6:30 or sold out

We'll be set up in the beautiful tree lined parking lot of Pedal the Planet and Fast Signs, right next door to the Glenn Auto Mall on Richmond Rd. It's just a hop, skip and a jump outside of Man 'O War Blvd. Parking is right there so you don't have to drive around hunting for a spot to park. The parking lot is also paved and that makes it very stroller and wheelchair friendly!

Mill Pond Shopping Center Market

Saturday 9 until 2 or until sold out

Thursday 3 until 6:30 or sold out

We'll be set up in the shopping center with plenty of free parking. Look for us near the corner of Boston Rd. and Man 'O War Blvd.

********************************************

The Bluegrass Farmers' Market

is Lexington's only

100% homegrown/produced farmers market!

And, each farmer is certified...

KENTUCKY PROUD!

~*~*~*~*~*~*

IT'S TIME TO CAST YOUR VOTE!

Only a few more weeks to vote...we need your help!!!!

We were voted #1 in the state of Kentucky last year thanks to you, our loyal customers! We hope we can do it again in 2011...we need your vote! Just click on the Bluegrass Farmers' Market link and cast your vote...tell your friends and family too!

http://action.farmland.org/site/PageServer?pagename=Market_Vote&searchTerm=bluegrass+farmers+market&x=29&y=17

Tuesday's market will be loaded with summer goodness! And, all of it is guaranteed homegrown or produced by our farmers...it doesn't get more local than that!

Here's a bit of what you'll find today...

CORN

TOMATOES

PEPPERS

GREEN BEANS

ONIONS

POTATOES

CUCUMBERS

EGGPLANT

SQUASH

WATERMELONS

PEACHES

APPLES

RASPBERRIES

BLACKBERRIES

GARLIC

CUT FLOWERS

HANGING HERB BASKETS

CUT HERBS

JAMS & JELLIES

AND MUCH MORE!

~*~*~*~*~*~*

~*~ 2011 MARKET HOURS ~*~

Richmond Rd. Market

Saturday 9 until 2 or until sold out

Tuesday 3 until 6:30 or sold out

We'll be set up in the beautiful tree lined parking lot of Pedal the Planet and Fast Signs, right next door to the Glenn Auto Mall on Richmond Rd. It's just a hop, skip and a jump outside of Man 'O War Blvd. Parking is right there so you don't have to drive around hunting for a spot to park. The parking lot is also paved and that makes it very stroller and wheelchair friendly!

Mill Pond Shopping Center Market

Saturday 9 until 2 or until sold out

Thursday 3 until 6:30 or sold out

We'll be set up in the shopping center with plenty of free parking. Look for us near the corner of Boston Rd. and Man 'O War Blvd.

The Bluegrass Farmers' Market

is Lexington's only

100% homegrown/produced farmers market!

IT'S TIME TO CAST YOUR VOTE!

We were voted #1 in the state of Kentucky last year thanks to you, our loyal customers! We hope we can do it again in 2011...we need your vote! Just click on the Bluegrass Farmers' Market link and cast your vote...tell your friends and family too!

http://action.farmland.org/site/PageServer?pagename=Market_Vote&searchTerm=bluegrass+farmers+market&x=29&y=17

P.S. We are currently #1 in Kentucky...keep telling your friends about our wonderful market so we can stay there! And, you can vote for more than one market...so if you shop at two markets you can still vote for your other favorite.

The heat wave continues! I'm a wee bit tired of it but then I think about what is coming after the heat...cold weather and that means no more tomatoes, melons, corn, etc. So I smile and enjoy the heat and the summer goodness that it brings to our market. :)

I have to admit that we have enjoyed a BBT (bacon, basil, tomato) sandwich more than once this week...why not enjoy it while you have it! I'm thinking we'll have those fried zucchini sticks with a fresh tomato salsa to dip them in again too! And then there was Wednesday night when we went all out and had steamed potatoes, zucchini (yes, we have bunches), sweet onion quarters and of course a sliced tomato and a few ears of corn slathered in butter and herb seasoning! Yes...the heat is okay as long as we can eat like this!

On Thursday we decided that we needed a good old fashioned hamburger with all of the trimmings! They were delicious and I am sure if we lived in a subdivision with close neighbors, there would have been complaints about the sighs coming from our home! HaHa! I have to admit that I did not want to turn on the oven (heat again) to bake some fries so I made homemade potato chips instead. They will continue to be keepers at our home!!! Crispy, fresh, easy and just wonderful! The reason these “chips” turned out so much better than my usual ones is because I asked our resident “tater” expert, Bill of Green Garden on Colby Farm, which “spud” to use. His response was Wisconsin Superior! And, he was right...they were perfect for creating my own homemade potato chips. Thank you Bill for being so knowledgeable about your taters and for sharing your expertise with me. That's the great part of shopping at a 100% homegrown farmers market...the farmers know their crops and how to use them!!!

Now on to the important stuff...what will be available this week at the Bluegrass Farmers' Market!

RICHMOND RD. MARKET

CORN

TOMATOES (ALL VARIETIES INCLUDING HEIRLOOMS!)

GREEN BEANS

SQUASH

CUCUMBERS

POTATOES

ONIONS

PEPPERS (HOT and MILD)

CABBAGE

EGGPLANT

CARROTS

GARLIC

SHALLOTS

MUSHROOMS

CANTALOUPES

WATERMELON (SEEDLESS ONES TOO)

PEACHES

APPLES

BLACKBERRIES

EGGS

BEEF

HERB SEASONING

JAMS & FRUIT BUTTERS

FRESH CUT FLOWERS

CUT HERBS (STEVIA, BASIL & MINT)

HANGING HERB BASKETS

HERB & FLOWER PLANTS

JAM CAKES

FRIED FRUIT PIES

DONUTS

HAMBURGERS

MILL POND SHOPPING CENTER

Don't forget the Thursday market!

CORN

TOMATOES (HEIRLOOMS TOO!)

GREEN BEANS

ONIONS

PEPPERS

POTATOES

SQUASH

CUCUMBERS

WATERMELONS

CANTALOUPES

SQUASH

ZUCCHINI

EGGPLANT

CABBAGE

PEACHES

APPLES

FRESH CUT ZINNIA & SUNFLOWERS

AND, BOTH MARKETS ARE GUARANTEED TO HAVE SOME SURPRISES!

*** One of our farmers would like to take orders on fresh (never frozen) whole free range chickens. If you are interested, you can call John at Rejoicing Acres Farm at (606) 423-4864 for more information. ***

~*~ 2011 MARKET HOURS ~*~

Richmond Rd. Market

Saturday 9 until 2 or until sold out

Tuesday 3 until 6:30 or sold out

We'll be set up in the beautiful tree lined parking lot of Pedal the Planet and Fast Signs, right next door to the Glenn Auto Mall on Richmond Rd. It's just a hop, skip and a jump outside of Man 'O War Blvd. Parking is right there so you don't have to drive around hunting for a spot to park. The parking lot is also paved and that makes it very stroller and wheelchair friendly!

Mill Pond Shopping Center Market

Saturday 9 until 2 or until sold out

Thursday 3 until 6:30 or sold out

We'll be set up in the shopping center with plenty of free parking. Look for us near the corner of Boston Rd. and Man 'O War Blvd.

The Bluegrass Farmers' Market

is Lexington's only

100% homegrown/produced farmers market!

And, each farmer is certified...

KENTUCKY PROUD!

~*~*~*~*~*~*

IT'S TIME TO CAST YOUR VOTE!

Only a few more weeks to vote...

we need your help!!!!

We were voted #1 in the state of Kentucky last year thanks to you, our loyal customers! We hope we can do it again in 2011...we need your vote! Just click on the Bluegrass Farmers' Market link and cast your vote...tell your friends and family too!

http://action.farmland.org/site/PageServer?pagename=Market_Vote&searchTerm=bluegrass+farmers+market&x=29&y=17