A LOCAL SUMMER

Summer is here in full force!! Wow, another day in the 90’s and it looks like the heat wave is expected to continue thru the weekend.  And to think, just a two weeks ago, I was lamenting the lack of heat for the tomatoes and peppers, but I guess the saying is true “be careful what you wish for.”  

Innisfree Garden, Millbrook, NY

Along with the surge of heat helping summertime fruits and vegetables ripen, summer is a great time and for me brings back the memories of many a fun filled carefree day swimming, riding bikes, being barefoot and looking forward to our annual beach vacation, camping in the backyard or back woods with my friends, chasing fireflies and seeing how long they will live in a jar, eating ice cream and going to the county fair. Regardless of age, summertime brings you back to your childhood – Autumn brings back to school, back to work, routines and getting ready for winter.  Winter brings cold, wet and snow and dark days – yes, the holidays are nice but they come and go so quickly and are often a stressful time.  Spring is the time of re-birth and renewal.  Summer however is full of good times, great food and adventure.  I’m not a kid anymore but I still love a good adventure.

I’m going to encourage all of you to have some fun this summer.  While we all love getting away, it’s just like what we say about the Millbrook Farmers Market too- it’s all about LOCAL! And just like our food supply of fruits, vegetables, dairy, baked goods, the list goes on and on, there is so much to do right in the Hudson Valley. In fact, we are lucky to be a part of the Hudson Valley region where many come from long distances to experience what’s right here in our own backyard. So, play tourist for a day and keep it local. Whatever your interest I bet there is something between Albany and White Plains that will satisfy you. Whether you’re a history buff, and art fan, music lover, hiker, bicyclist, or maybe you love wine or cider or a craft beer.  Maybe its flea markets and estate auctions, or antiques, maybe you’re a fan of motorcycles and airplanes, the list goes on and on but I guarantee you there is something that will pique your interest.  And of course, there are the pick-your-own farms throughout the Hudson Valley, local farm stands, fabulous restaurants and more that you can add to your trip and experience the bounty of the Hudson Valley. Sometimes we forget what is right in front of us and we need to be reminded.  

Dover Stone Church, Dover Plains, NY

I did a quick search and found a great resource for attractions in the Hudson Valley.  It’s on the I Love New York site and the link is here if you want to check it out www.iloveny.com/places-to-go/hudson-valley/attractions/

And before you hit the road and rediscover the region don’t forget to stop by the Millbrook Farmers Market and pick something up for the trip- a cup of coffee and a croissant for the road, snacks for a picnic lunch at Innisfree Garden, even granola for a treat on your hike at Dover Stone Church! One last thing before I go, if you’re a fan and supporter of art, then next week’s market (7/30) is one you don’t want to miss! Thank you for your support and as always please feel free to stop by the Managers tent and say hello!

Greg
Millbrook Farmers Market Manager