As spring approaches, we look forward to so many new beginnings. Our farm always has lots of new life. The first arrivals are always the kids. It’s exciting to witness the births and then watch the antics of our little additions.
The chicks follow the kids. This year’s flock will fly in on March 12th. The call from the post office will come early in the morning, and off I will go to pick up the little peeps. It is so much fun to watch them grow.
As the days grow longer and warmer, we also know that it is time for the Farmer’s Market. This year we are doing a Flower and Garden Market in March, to be followed by the traditional market from April until October. Each Saturday morning about twenty farmers gather in the lot at 6th and Main in North Little Rock, for the Argenta Farmer’s Market. All of our farmers are Certified Arkansas Farmers. This means that we must produce what we are selling on our farm. We go through an application process, followed by a farm inspection. This is to insure the integrity of the market. We only sell what we grow or produce on the farm, so you will not find pineapples or mangos at our market. The selection varies from week to week. Since we are a locally produced market, we always have what is fresh and in season. As we open, there will be lots of lettuces, greens, strawberries, carrots, onions, radishes and even vegetable plants. Every week we have eggs, cheese, meat, honey and of course our soap and lotion. It is very rewarding to be part of this market. The farmers involved are extremely particular about what they produce and how it is done. We have farms that range from about forty acres to only 1/8 th of an acre. The Capital Hotel catering arrives each Saturday with a daily special. No two weeks are the same. We have had shrimp grits, goat cheese bruschetta,ham and biscuits, plus we are always treated to a luscious drink, and the most wonderful bread. The baquettes are baked before dawn and delivered to the market. There are some vendors that are not able to be there every week, but arrive at least once a month.Two of our favorites are the fresh milled rice and the Shitake mushrooms. Directly across the street from the Farmer’s Market is the Argenta Market. This market will transport you back in time. Small,friendly, a regular gathering spot for the neighborhood. You can order breakfast or lunch here, as well as pick up fresh cut meat, local fruit and veggies, plus all the staples you need from day to day. The market offers fresh baked goods and pastries from Boulevard Bread also. If you are so inclined, there is indoor and outdoor seating to enjoy your meal or a cup of great coffee. If you have not ventured to this location on a Saturday morning,consider doing so, you are in for a delightful time.