Wanderlust : Hillsville, VA 10.30.13 - 11.2.13 - Day 4 - Farmer's Market and Mainstreet

Hillsville, Virginia, according to a local that we met, has a population of about 4,000 people. There are a couple of stop lights and just a few restaurants. My father has been there about two years, with nothing to do but work and explore the vast expanse of land that is home to 3,999 other people. Somehow, though, he still didn't know there was a farmer's market in the town.  Not outside of town. Not out in the middle of a random field that you couldn't see unless you were stranded on the side of a backwoods road and stumbled across whilst searching for sustenance for your 4 hungry children in the back seat. No, it is right in the middle of the tiny town. I saw the sign as we drove into town on the first day, but my father {the lover of fresh produce and homemade jams} has never noticed this little gem. No worries, I am happy to help introduce my family to new things in my own  their own neighborhood. You are welcome, Dad.

Our last morning was the perfect opportunity to explore the Southwest Virginia Farmer's Market, and it definitely did not disappoint.

My grandfather would have snatched up several of these bottles in a heartbeat.  No matter what is making you sick, this will fix it. Got a cold? Here, drink this. Pink eye? This will fix it! Schizophrenia? All of your selves will lap this up and be happy. And then you will all be healthy.

Before we left, I wanted to visit the gift shop that was across the street from my dad's apartment. I figured it was a small town, country-styled gift shop with jams and jellys. Boy was I wrong! My mom and I went inside while the boys waited in the car since they didn't wait to go shopping. I really don't understand men sometimes.

We stepped into the Hale-Wilkinson-Carter Home and received an impromptu tour in what turned out to be a five-story house that is currently being renovated. The first three stories are used as a museum and gift shop. The rooms have been decorated in period style with beautiful pieces that are authentic to the late 1800's to early 1900's.

The top two stories were not renovated yet, but had many random objects lying around awaiting the clean-up.

This plaster of a human skull was actually drip painted in bright colors. One possible use for the floors is going to be art classes or artists' studio spaces, and I assume this was left by one of the many artists vying for the space.

Because my mom and I were the only two on the "tour", our guide allowed us to venture into the attic as long as we promised to be careful. It was so dark that I couldn't actually see anything, but I hoped that the light from this small window would provide enough light for my photo. We couldn't wander through the space much though because of the lack of light. Also, we were a little unsure if the floors would hold us. Minor details, you know.

I bet the boys wish they had come in now. Oh, and the gift shop was actually a space for local artists to sell their work. Everything from jewelry, paintings, and charcoals to pottery, scarves and aprons, and woodwork can be found there. It is definitely worth the visit.

We had such a blast visiting my father and taking in the gorgeous sights of the area. We cannot wait to go back, so get ready for house guests again soon, ok? Really soon. You may as well open the door now, Dad.

Knock, knock.