First Market

We started our Saturday at 6:00 am. The kids were up and ready to sell at the Boulder County Farmer's Market. Our learning curve was sharp. We hustled to get the tent up, our plants out and everything in place for the 8:00 am gong that rings in the market start time. 

There's no frivolity in market set up. We watched in admiration as Aspen Moon Farm set up a double tent space with enough fresh greens to feed the army of market goers. Patrick was thrilled to be there. He was careful with all of his seedlings that we took from the car, and he gingerly placed them in position on his display. His hand-written chalkboard signs advertised his prices. I love his youthful handwriting. 

The inventory for the day included four varieties of plants for heirloom tomatoes, gigantic pumpkins, pickling cucumbers and basil. The biggest sellers were the cucumbers and tomatoes. Patrick was so knowledgable explaining the different varieties. Aidan, his right-hand man, was eager to explain the fruit yields and types. He just had to move to the front of the table to get close to the customers. His favorite quote of the day, "How can I help you today?" 

It was a long day. Eight hours of standing and selling. We learned a lot about how to do it better so there was less of a physical toll on us. Next time, we're bringing stools for a break on our feet and more food. Selling food inspires an appetite.

The people watching was simply fun. Talking to customers was a treat - Patrick says that was his favorite part. Watching the kids total each person's sales and make change was a hoot. For two self-proclaimed math phobes, they did really well. 

At the end of our Saturday, the kids were so tired they all asked for bed. A small miracle. We all agreed it was an exciting and exhausting day and we can't wait to do it again.