Lettuce eat! The farmers' market — a community gathering

I recently returned from a week in Pennsylvania, visiting my family. I've been toying with the idea of moving back to my beautiful home state. When I contemplate such a move, though, I think about all of the people and places and events I would miss. Our farmers' market tops the list of events.

I take the path nearly every Saturday that leads down to the market. It takes me to a place of happy patrons, shopping for favorite foods and produce provided by favorite vendors. Children and pets are often in tow.

The market is supervised by Judie and her husband, Larry. What pleasant, kind people they are! I have never seen them without smiles on their faces. Vendors wave and smile, and there is no pressure to buy or sales pitches to endure.

I naturally have my favorite vendors: my Greek chef friend, Bacon Farms, the vendor selling homemade key lime pie, and Island Kitchen. Each week I peruse the beautiful, fresh creations. I am filled with gratitude for the kind, compassionate people who greet me and talk with me each week. And I am not the only one. Neighbors talk with each other and with the vendors, and I know they are enjoying the morning, too.

I particularly enjoy the Bacon's young son, who tends to his chickens and provides fresh eggs. He is always smiling as he helps his dad staff the booth. This family is amazing! They are hard-working farmers, producing fresh and healthy produce as well as fresh flowers when in season.

There is almost always wonderful music at the market. Local musicians provide tunes for patrons and vendors, adding to the jovial atmosphere.

I want to give a special shout-out to Judie and Larry and thank them for providing our community with special mornings of fun at the market. If you haven't been, I encourage you to check it out. You will not be disappointed!

Here is information from the website:

The Fernandina Beach Market Place is a true farmers' market located on N. 7th Street, in the historic district of Fernandina Beach. The market is open year-round every Saturday from 9 to 1, rain or shine. Farmers, growers, and entrepreneurial individuals sell locally grown and produced goods to those living in, and visiting, our friendly little community. Look for live music, featured businesses, a Booth with a Cause, and the friendliest folks in Florida! You will also find seasonal produce, fresh baked breads, pastries, plants, flowers, beef, chicken, pork, eggs, snacks, jellies, jams, pickles, salmon, jerky, hot sauce, guacamole, dips, salsas, candles, soap and body products, flavored salts, pecans, honey, wild-caught shrimp, and specialty food items. For more information about the Fernandina Beach Market Place farmers’ market, please send an email to: Info@FernandinaBeachMarketPlace.com

If you have a story you'd like to share here in the Fernandina Observer — about a neighbor or friend or stranger or business that showed kindness, or about kindness and compassion in general — please contact Peggie Weeks at pegweeks@gmail.com