Farmers Market Season Has Begun

Well- The first Burlington Farmers Market has begun and what a day! I thought I had realistic expectations but even in the poorest economy since I have been on Earth, people were disposing of disposable income. Perhaps it's that they will not travel this holiday season, I am not sure why.

Completely unexpected, I arrived late although I was leaving on time-due to a propane truck straddling my front door so as to prevent my exit. Oh and did I mention that we got 5 inches of snow the night before ? So shoveling and plowing were in order prior to anything else happening. When I arrived, on the very first day, my paid for parking spot was filled by another car. As late as I was, I was forced to set up tunnel vision fashion without saying hello to anyone I knew. In fact, it became so busy at my booth I was unable to walk around at all that day and visit with other vendor friends. I spent about the first 45 minutes attempting to set up my stand with customers rushing in at me. I sold out of most of our lamb in the first hour. Lots of regular customers and some new faces I did see, as well. Ironic, given that I had forgotten my farm sign and was in a corner at the far end of the room.

Our new cheese 'Vaquero Blue,' (cave aged sheep/cow blue cheese) sold out first. Creamy, mild and buttery it was a hit for holiday giving, I suspect. By the way, Vaqueros were the original cowboys that came here from Spain who used more advanced techniques not previously seen here in North America to not only handle cattle but train horses for range use. These were the men that taught the Hawaiians on our ranch (as I have mentioned in previous posts) that later became known as 'Paniolo' in the Hawaiian language- the rugged Vaqueros from Spain. Many thanks to all for supporting us and happy hoiday!