Wool. Something that was not on my mind, as I wound my way over to the Newberg Farmer’s Market on an expectedly hot August afternoon. That’s exactly what I love about the market, it gets me out and about from my daily routine, and there are always new things to learn.
An immaculate woven seat cushion that possessed the look of a beautiful 19th Century braided rug, immediately caught my attention. We have a large braided rug in our home, handmade purely of wool scraps, and I love the look of the bright colors jumping in and out of each other in an organized spiral. These are smaller versions with a handy purpose. Chair cushions. Brilliant.
Kathy’s Braids are not anything less than perfection. I asked the sweet lady in the booth if she was Kathy, and she politely informed me that, “Yes, she was Kathy today, as it’s a good day”. She’s a witty gal with a strong sense of quality.
There were small wooden spindles in a jar of which I needed some schooling on. Kathy and her husband make them, sturdy hand spinners for wool or cotton. Much of the world spins fleece yarn by hand, carrying a spindle around throughout the day spinning fibers for garments and the like. I would consider it a twist of a stress relieving activity. Twirl and ponder, calm and productive. I purchased one for a family member who likes to knit and whirled my way with Sender down the lane.
Eggplants a plenty at St. Joseph Acres table. They frequently have photos taken of their edible goods by passing local artists, wishing to convey the natural beauty through a painting. It is produce-portrait perfect.
Mr. Soapy Bear popped in quickly on a break from his canopy to grab an onion for his pantry.
There are plenty of lemon cucumbers and your staple cherry tomatoes to go around. It’s looking more and more like harvest season.
Dos Madre’s Farms is representing with some serious peppers. A pear that appears set on fire, like a true west coast sunset, delights me. Is it even real? I have to touch it to know for sure.
In my continued roving, I was graciously offered a taste of wine by nearby Mikayla at Emerson Vineyards. They came all the from Monmouth to the Newberg Farmer’s Market, excited to participate in the expanding and buzzing downtown affair.
With young blueberry maidens scampering around their bench, we quickly chatted about the growing Wednesday Market.
The parents were informatively engaged in wine conversation, while I had a great time watching this feisty little family gobble a carton of juicy berries.
Making an S-twist, I head towards Susie Guardipee and her sparkling tent of jewels. Her authentic smile skeins me in every time. I was intent on picking out some tasteful earrings for a gift, and she shared with me her passion for her precise selection of stones. She will wait years to purchase just the right strand of stones or gems. She is well versed in her thoughtful descriptions and understanding of the sparkly earth fruits. She assisted me patiently with a labradorite and turquoise pair that she had handmade. Her Granddaughter carefully creates the cards upon which they are displayed and sold.
Susie was moved to share with me her latest project in the works. A genuine Pendleton fabric pillow, hand sewn in hues of lilac and violet, will be on display soon. I feel honored to share in the delicate passions of my neighbors.
Although some of my summer visits are brief, with a little Sender in tow, I cherish each interaction and leave knowing I will return with a warm welcome.
Farmer’s Market August 17, 2016
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