From the Farm: What was old now is new again

The Boyle County Farmers Market Vendors wish everyone a happy, healthy New Year!
If you are interested in becoming a member of our market for 2012, contact Gary Taylor at (859) 332-2539. The Boyle County Farmers Market is located at Boyle County Fairgrounds. The market manager is Gary Taylor of Knobview Farms.
From the Farm: We enjoyed a nice, relaxing Christmas Day at the farm. Jon and Heston came down on Christmas Eve. We munched on our favorite holiday snacks and watched  the classic “It’s a Wonderful Life.” It was nice to just sit and visit while waiting for Santa.
We were awakened on Christmas morning by our “fur” children. We live too far away to see our grandkids open gifts, so we contented ourselves with watching the pups with their stockings.
Heston pulled his new alligator out and proceeded to play. Sheba took her new toy to her bed for further inspection. Both enjoyed their stocking treats as well.
Barrie surprised me with a wonderful gift. I had a wagon that I used to move tools, plants and buckets around when I am gardening. It bit the dust last year. I thought Barrie had thrown it away. He has been working out in his shop these last weeks on various projects. It turns out that one of them was rebuilding my wagon.
For the bed, he used red oak lumber salvaged from an old barn that was here when we built our home. Side rails were made and painted. He used the original wheels, handle and hardware to complete it. The wagon looks better than when I purchased it years ago. It is all the more special because of the thought and care that went into his gift. I love it!!
We talked to everyone “back home” on the phone. Although I didn’t get to see my daughters or grandkids, it was great talking to them on the phone. To hear the 2-year old twins say “Merry Christmas, Nana! Love you!” followed by kisses in the phone is priceless. Not as good as real hugs and kisses but nice just the same.
This is the last column for 2011. As this year comes to a close, we look forward to the new year and are hopeful that it brings better times for all of us. 2011 has been a rough year for many. We send our good wishes to all of you!
Spice up your New Year’s Day with this recipe for “good luck” black-eyed peas:

Spicy Black-Eyed Peas

1 (16-ounce) package dried black-eyed peas
2 pounds bulk pork sausage
1 medium onion, finely chopped
1 (28-ounce) can whole tomatoes, undrained
½ cup water
2 tablespoons sugar
2 tablespoons chili powder
2 tablespoons celery, finely chopped
2 teaspoons garlic salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Wash and sort peas. Place peas in large Dutch oven and add enough water to cover 2 inches above top of peas. Soak overnight.
Brown sausage in heavy skillet, stirring to crumble. Add onion and cook until tender. Drain sausage.
Drain peas well. Stir in sausage, tomatoes and remaining ingredients. Bring to boil. Reduce heat and cover. Simmer 1½ hours, adding water if necessary.