On a beautiful Saturday morning, I went on a tour of a few of our local farmer’s markets.

Over the weekend, I visited Burris’, Hazel’s, and Allegri Markets, collecting various in-season fruits, and produce. I haven’t made a leisurely visit to a market in quite some time, and I realized this weekend, how very much I enjoy it. It’s one of the many good things that has changed in my lifestyle, because of the virus.

When I stepped into each building, I was able to enjoy the wind blowing and the mild weather that we’ve been having. It’s rare that the weather is still bearable this time of year, in lower Alabama, and right now, it’s lovely. I browsed the aisles, stopping to breathe in the grassy aroma of fresh peaches. I admired the leathery skin of bright red tomatoes, chose a forest green head of lettuce, and felt happier, gazing at hundreds of sunny yellow lemons. The staff at each loaction were kind and cheerful. Most of them, were young high school students, probably enjoying staying busy and employed. I want to point that out, because the reason I started this blog was to spotlight our local small business heroes… Those who are still hiring, and still providing jobs, are more important to our community, and our economy than we realize.

So, on your way home today, stop by your local market. Enjoy the fruits of your neighbor’s labor, and support those who are keeping us fed. What an amazing way, to invest in our community!