2016 Coming to an End

What a nice, long autumn we had in Ohio.  Fall weather stretched into what should have been winter months.  One reprieve after another kept many of us from "winterizing" the farmhouse and barns, and even our vehicles, at the time of year we usually complete those tasks.  Every time I thought Winter was finally here, the following week brought temperatures in the 50's or 60's again. More time to "get ready" for winter.

This week was a cold, snowy, blustery one.  Today started at less than 5 degrees and only got as high as 12 degrees.  Tonight back down to about 2 degrees.  With the wind chill factor, it's feeling like well-below zero.  Several inches of snow is frozen on the ground.

Many are hoping for a "white Christmas," but at this point we may have had the most snow we will see this month.  This weekend it will be in the 50's Saturday, then dropping back into the 20's. Welcome to Ohio!

Winter at the Homer Village Market usually brings the best prices of the year on wine.  This is the time to stock up for the holidays and beyond, because usually the prices go back up in January. While the prices fluctuate up and down throughout the year, this seems to be the most predictable time to find bargains on your favorite wine. Also this is the time we stock the most variety of "wine accessories" such as pretty wine carriers, unique openers, and stoppers as gift items.

If you are doing some shopping for the holidays, and you have a foodie on your list, you might find something at the Homer Village Market to please them.  Besides an interesting variety of pickled fruits and vegetables (relishes), we have low-sodium spice blends, sauces, vinegar, and many varieties of rice and beans.  While gifting perishables is a little bit more difficult (steaks, chops, etc.), that is where a Gift Certificate could come in handy.  We have denominations of $5, $10, $15, $20, and $50. Local honey, maple syrup, and lamb chops make nice gifts. Don't forget the alligator!

Whatever your plans, take time to enjoy the winter season!  Stop by the store to see what's new.