Farmers Delivering Winter Produce, Baked Goods and Artisan Crafts for Holiday's

Over 50 coats and blankets were donated this past Saturday for the “Love Will Keep Us Warm campaign

It was more than what we hoped for and much more than what we expected. After all, this past weekend was the official start for the mad dash to the mall for holiday shopping, so it was great to see how many of you showed up at the market Saturday. But the real surprise was how many of you came bearing gifts such as warm blankets and coats; mittens, scarves and winter clothing. The number of donations made to the Love Will Keep Us Warm campaign was so large that another vehicle had to be called to come to the market and pick up the clothing and blankets for the charity. Your generosity will help many people in our communities stay warm through the winter. But yet there are many more that need your help. Financial hardships such as losing a job can make something as simple as buying an extra blanket a tough thing to do. So if you missed coming to the market this past Saturday, you’ll get another chance to help your neighbors in need. The Love Will Keep Us Warm charity drive will continue at the Franklin Farmers Market this upcoming Saturday, December 7^th. Please clean out your closets and gather your gently-used blankets, coats and winter clothing to donate. Share the warmth.

Jones Mill Farm fresh breads, jellies, jams and preserves

Saturday was a bright, sunny day which made it a great time to be at the market. There were a few farmers missing because of the Thanksgiving holiday weekend, but overall there was a great selection of fresh food at the market. Lots of yummy winter veggies to snatch and absolutely delicious baked goods. Those huge muffins from Lucy’s Kitchen were going fast, along with BB’s Gourmet Pretzels which are perfect snacks for the weekend football games. The non-GMO popcorn from Gardner Grove Farms was also pretty popular. But there was none of the Norton Family Farm’s sweet treats or their famous tender lettuce and a lot of people were asking where they were. On the way to market early Saturday morning, Karen and Jim Norton had an unfortunate encounter with a deer. They’re both okay, but their vehicle was damaged, so they were unable to make it to the market. Don’t worry though lettuce lovers – they’ll be back this upcoming Saturday.

Kirkwood Farm Turnip Greens

Delvin Farms fresh picked Arugula

Beautiful fresh radishes from Zadok the Natural Farmer

By the way, the forecast for next Saturday is calling for some possible snow flurry action. Maybe it’s because the big man with the white beard is going to be at the market. Santa Claus will be coming to see you and find out just what’s on your Christmas list. Bring the kids out to see Santa! Saturday is also our holiday market, with lots of unique, cool gifts available from local artisans.