As the seasons transition from summer to fall so do the products in the mercantile.

We have seen the last of the sweet corn and summer tomatoes but welcome winter squash and pumpkins. And apples! We have apples both from Chestnut Creek Farm and heritage varieties from Distillery Lane Cider Works. There are also still plenty of fresh potatoes from the farm. Our honey providers are completing the final harvests for the year. Often this honey is darker in color due to differing nectar sources from the spring clover and tulip poplar. While the bees will continue to collect nectar and pollen from late blooming flowers it is important at this time of year to be sure to leave enough honey in the hive to feed the bees through the winter.

We also are pleased to be offering mums again from the local FFA students. All proceeds from the sale of these mums goes to the student FFA program at Walkersville HS.

Angie has continued to expand her line of baked goods and is perfecting a sour dough bread among other things. She is also excited to be able to offer sliced bread due to a new bread slicer.

We have also added some spiced nuts from Max’s degrees.

New yarn and more sheep skins should be arriving in time for holiday shopping.

Try this recipe for a squash and apple bake from All Recipes:

The recipe calls for butternut squash but any of the winter squash would work fine. The Delicata and little Honey Nut squash are exceptionally sweet. For a ‘secret ingredient’ try adding 2 T cider vinegar to help enhance the flavors.