Tic, Tic, Tic-

There’s no denying that autumn has arrived. Maybe the days aren’t brisk just yet, but the nights are. Maybe the leaves aren’t red and gold, but their once bright green is looking a bit worn. Maybe the birds aren’t flocking south, but the squirrels are going crazy. I, for one, am more than ready to pack away my salad spinner and break out the cast iron skillet. I’m over salads, sandwiches and kebobs. Bring on the slow simmered stew, hot apple cider, and any muffin that make the entire house smell like cinnamon.

In case you can’t tell, fall happens to be my favorite season. I intend to make the most of it starting right now by cramming my kitchen full of golden delicious, jonathan, pinova and Arkansas black apples from Drewry Farm and filling my freezer with beef, buffalo and lamb stew meat from Meatworks, Ratchford and McSwain Farms. Join me in getting a jump start on this all-to-brief, best time of year before The Market closes tomorrow morning, because the Starks are always right.

Winter is coming.

~Rebecca Wild