Down Here Where I Come From

Today we went back down to our favorite Farm Market. We went last week while the Fella was out of town to get our favorite variety of peaches. Today it was all about the experience.

And the peach ice cream.

As I walked around, taking it all in, realizing how much I was going to miss this place for the next year, I saw things with new eyes.

This market is the heart of so many things Southern.

The first thing that made me smile was the freezer with the casseroles and peach cobbler ready to go. The size of the pans were 8 by 8, and they labeled it “Family Size.”

Y’all. Bless ’em.

I’m sorry, that might be family size for some families, but for us that would be a healthy helping for the Fella and maybe one small one for another person.

Maybe.

Food is pretty much our love language. I get it from my Mama.

I love where I live–I love the things that are Southern and tradition here.

In the South we can create beauty from brokenness.

These ferns were lovely hanging where limbs had been cut from the tree.

We love what dirt and sunshine and water can do and the flavors of summertime.

Tomatoes are sold by the box. Because they’re just that good. (#matersandwiches)

Peaches come straight from the tree to the wagons for folks to buy.

Folks choosing their O'Henry peaches from the wagon. There were so few this time of year they were being sold in peck baskets instead of half bushel boxes. — Folks choosing their O’Henry peaches from the wagon. There were so few this time of year they were being sold in peck baskets instead of half bushel boxes.

Where I’m from, wreaths are an art form…..

and barnyard animals make for lovely home decor.

We pickle EVERYTHING down here.

Okra, green beans, peaches, watermelon.....you name it, we've probably pickled it. — Okra, green beans, peaches, watermelon…..you name it, we’ve probably pickled it.

Grits are a delicacy. Especially from the grist mill at the Agrirama.

We like our Coca-Cola in glass bottles and ice cold.

Zinnias are a crop and folks come from miles around to cut them and take them home.

Zinnias a dime apiece. Our Princess loves to go out and cut them--choosing a lovely variety to bring home. — Zinnias a dime apiece. Our Princess loves to go out and cut them–choosing a lovely variety of colors to bring home.

Down here, Sunday hours start up after most churches let out.

And we know how important it is to park in the shade.

Tractor brand loyalty is about more than just the tractor. It’s a real thing. Some folks bleed green and yellow. Some of those have never even been on a tractor before. It’s just how it is.

Tonight I’m thankful as we say farewell to another summer. I will miss our trips down to the market until next summer. I will miss the sights and sounds and smells, but most of all, the flavors of summer.

Wishing you all an ever-growing appreciation for the place where you call home.

Love to all.