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Creekside Farm Stop is nestled between Hartsville and Greensburg off of State Road 46 at 7336 West County Rd. 300 South. If heading that way some time, I would encourage you to stop by as our family does at times.

On their Facebook Page, the owner Matt John who has many Hope connections, incorporates a quote from Kathryn Barr, author of “How to Start a Farm Shop.” She says, “Farm stops are year-round, every-day markets that support small-scale farmers and strengthen local and regional food systems. They do so most often when by operating on a consignment system.”

There are 24 different businesses within Creekside Farm Stop, several from the Hope area. Mac Trotter has pork available while Amanda Perkins has shelves of herbal remedies from Wild Wisdom. One very familiar Hope business within is Knot and Vine Plant Shop. Alexi McCullough says, “I really appreciate Matt providing the opportunity to our business as well as other businesses. It is extremely helpful!”

I can assure you there will be something of interest for you and for younger children if a parent or grandparent. Our grandsons enjoy their ice cream and the games provided outside. I can't pass on their moon pies, which always bring back memories how my mom would present flash card after flash card to help me learn my facts one summer and then reward me with a moon pie. Besides ice cream, they offer deli sandwiches of all types, a variety of chips and drinks. Of course, if it is grown on a farm you will find it.

They are offering a catering service featuring meat and cheese trays, sandwiches, pickles, potato salad, cold slaw, chips, cookies and Gourmet Ice Cream. And, they are hoping local high schools will take advantage of their catering for teams.

Recently, they had their first Fall Festival which I attended. Matt's three daughters were there helping out as they often do: Elizabeth, Camry, and Kinley. It was a nice day, and they had several vendors outside. Families with young children were enjoying the interesting games as well as the animals throughout. Since my nickname is “Duck,” my eyes went to the Duck Pool which children had an opportunity to win special prizes. Some children cared more about playing with the rubber ducks in the water than the prizes which I enjoyed observing. Matt, who provided chickens and ducks during several Hope Pioneer Days for the 4-H Club, has always had a high interest in animals.

On my way out, I enjoyed a rotisserie chicken sandwich and asked Matt for some final comments. He said, “In looking forward, I'm hopeful to have more festivals throughout the year. There are big plans for the property. We are actively seeking new local food producers to diversify our offerings. An expanded commercial kitchen where food entrepreneurs can kick start their own business is in the works. In addition, we are hoping for more gardens, including a large pollinator/native plant area as well as a permanent petting zoo featuring our animals and poultry. We hope to provide educational workshops such as making sourdough bread, soapmaking and basic gardening.

“I invite everyone to stop by the store; there is something for everyone here. And, I am always open to suggestions.”