Around these parts, we had the rainiest June in 113 years. That brought on late blight, a murderer of tomatoes and potatoes from way back. Gardeners and farmers had some trouble.
Then came July, and it rained some more. August was no picnic either. In fact, this was the lousiest summer, weather-wise, that most people I know can remember.
But that rain sure sets the table. Harvest is in, and this week the Co-op is bursting at the seams. There are still tomatoes to be had along with plenty of green stuff. The apples are out of control, and the root veggies, meats and poultry are all ready to comfort you on chill nights. This is stored sunshine on a grand scale; not even the rainiest summer in a century can hold back chow this good.
Which brings us to the weekend: this Saturday is the Co-op’s one-year anniversary, expansion, and Harvest Party. There’s going to be a soup-off with entries by the best restaurants in town, food tastings, local cider and apple crisp, live music, kids’ events — and rain.
Rain? Yes, rain (maybe). But don’t let that stop you from coming down from 12-4. We’ll still be partying.
Because after all—when you look at everything the rain brought us this year, all piled up and waiting for you to take it home and cook it—somehow, the sun breaks through.
We’ll see you Saturday. Bring a friend.