Hats off to Christmas at the farmers market

Reasons to smile felt scarce this weekend. But who can resist Clark Griswold and his cousin Eddie?

Actually, those hearty fellows are honey seller Wayne Hansen (right) and Jeff Lazaro, who sells infused olive oils. They had side-by-side tables Saturday in the very chilly open-air building at the Charlotte Regional Farmers Market on Yorkmont Road.

I was surprised at how many vendors were up and running at the market on Saturday morning. There were piles of fresh broccoli, kale, lettuce, pecans, eggs and more. If the past is an indication, next Saturday will be full, too. Then in January, the market will continue but some of the offerings will dwindle.

So really, you need to get out there and stock up. The stuff is so fresh, it will keep a couple of weeks.   You need to be ready to keep those New Year's resolutions to eat more fresh, local food.

And while my hat is off to Wayne and Jeff for coming out in the cold, I certainly hope they keep their own hats on.