Farmers Market Fridays Are Back!

Happy Friday!  Summer is here and so are the local farm markets so I'm bringing back Farmers Market Fridays.  I hope to have a farm market, recipes using products from farm markets or tips on making the most of your farm market buys each Friday through the summer.  

I was so happy to learn that finding farm markets here in Michigan has gotten much easier thanks to groups like the Michigan Farmers Market Association - they have an awesome search directory!  Some state and federal websites have also gotten in on the act like the Pure Michigan site and this national directory through the USDA.  Many food assistance programs have been working to partner with local producers to increase access to fresh food for low income citizens - listings often include whether they are able to accept WIC or EBT payment.

We hit our first local farm market of the season last weekend and while I totally neglected to take pictures of our haul, here's what I got for $20:

1 bag dried homemade egg noodles
2 large muffins - blueberry & a cranberry/orange
2 dozen assorted colors of eggs
1 small loaf lemon poppy seed bread
1 dozen peanut butter cookies
2 locally made chap sticks
1 glycerin soap with a small floating fish (my little guy just had to have it for his baths)
1 bag mixed herb seasoning (snack sized baggie)
1 bag celery seed (snack sized baggie)

Its still too early for more local garden produce here but there was chard, onions and strawberries to be found, as well as honey, maple syrup, fresh floral arrangements and a variety of baked goods and snacks.  A few folks were also there with handmade crafts like bracelets and hand towels.

What are you finding at your local farm markets so far this summer?