Glorious, contact-free fresh produce from the local farm [View all]

[Tanuki]

I live in Tennessee and have been distressed but not surprised this week to see an abrupt escalation of COVID-19 infections. A bright spot in all of this was my trip to a local farm this morning to pick up their set box of fresh produce, which varies from week to week depending on what they are harvesting. I paid online ahead of time and just popped my trunk when I got there. This week my box contained Bibb lettuce, tomatoes, summer squash, zucchini, a small head of cabbage, white and red potatoes, white and red onions, garlic, kohlrabi, cucumbers, watermelon, flat parsley, and a big bouquet of basil that made my heart sing with joy. They also have a smaller size box if that is too much, some ala carte choices, pre-made soups, salads, etc. as well as cheeses, baked goods, and meats from their co-op partners. Many small farms are going through a rough period due to cancelled contracts with restaurants and schools. If you live near a farm, you may be able to treat yourself to some lovely, fresh produce and help out the farmer at the same time. To their credit, the farm that I go to has been conscientious about masks and contact right from the start.