“Look at those beets! This is so exciting!”

I can’t help but smile when I hear someone getting all worked up about vegetables at the Homer Farmers’ Market. It lets me know that I’m not the only one who is divinely happy just because Bob Durr brought strawberries to the Market this week or because Jen and Paul’s green garlic smells so unbelievably vibrant.

Does that make me a Market nerd? So be it.  

I am overjoyed to announce that there are carrots showing up regularly now. I was totally stoked to see celery for the first time this season. I love how proudly Christina Castellanos writes out how her seeds are organic and non-GMO and Robert Heimbach writes out that he uses no chemical fertilizers or pesticides. These things make my day.

I love listening to Shawn Jackinsky explaining to me the pollination dynamics that have to happen to get a josta berry while he shows me his currants that just may be a mystery berry since they were pollinated by gooseberries. I love seeing people get gardening advice. I love watching folks walking off with an entire “Garden to Go” from Avalanche Ranch.

And nothing makes me happier than seeing all the newly inspired vendors on Kids Vending Day. Erin had a new edition to the painted rock bugs: the green cucumber beetle. Twelve-year-old Galen Lyons had his fly tying set up right there ready to make you a brilliant lure or charming earrings.  All the kids have a great story about what brought them to the Market, whether they are selling stunningly beautiful necklaces or luscious veggies they grew themselves.

If you like to geek out on Market subjects, you will be even happier this weekend. The chef-at-the-market series is starting off with nutritionist Jenifer Dickson presenting from 10:30 a.m. until noon. On top of that, from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. the integrated pest management specialist and the ag agent from Cooperative Extension Service will be at the market to answer your gardening questions.

So, head down to Ocean Drive on Saturdays from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. or Wednesdays from 3-6 p.m. and see what details get you excited.

Kyra Wagner is the director of Sustainable Homer and the Homer Farmers’Market’s biggest fan.