March 29, 2024

Langreck: Getting back on track

The last few months have been an adjustment period as strict restrictions and regulations were put in place throughout Indiana and the country to slow the spread of the COVID-19 virus.

Slowly, through the Back on Track Indiana plan, the state has begun to open back up, and although things are a long way from where they were before the pandemic hit, there is a light at the end of the tunnel.

For the first time in weeks, I had the opportunity the other day to do one of the things I love most — attend an agricultural event.

Although it was not as grand as a state fair or the National FFA Convention, I was able to attend the Bargersville Farmers Market, which is in the town next to mine.

Not only was I able to attend the market and talk with and take pictures of Hoosier producers who were giving consumers the opportunity to purchase locally made and grown products, I was able to go with my family.

Besides going to and from a family member’s house, my girls have not been anywhere since the quarantine first started.

I loved being able to take them to the farmers market and watch the pure excitement and glee on their faces as they looked at the different vegetables, herbs and goods that were for sale.

Although they didn’t really want to stand still and listen as I talked with the owners of Heirloom Acres about their produce and how they have had to adapt to a different market other than wholesale, since a lot of restaurants had to close or change their menus during the pandemic, I didn’t really care because I was just happy to see them happy.

After a round of sugary snow cones, the girls were excited to go to another vendor where we got a bag of salad tomatoes and homemade strawberry preserves.

Although it wasn’t a shopping spree to Target or a trip to Disney World, it is a memory with my children I will never forget.