We started back up with Farmer's Markets this week. Thursday I baked for Catawba market, and Friday for Ikenberry's and Grandin. Frankly, it was pretty tough, but the muscle memory knew what to do and somehow or another, the bread got baked and it was wonderful to get back to our friends. Stunning, really. Stunning to see how appreciated we are and how our loyal customers are more than just customers. This local food movement is a huge thing. I hate to use the overused word spiritual, but that was how it felt, as we greeted one another, shared hugs, stories, and I recounted to many the steps that led to my decision to move back to Texas. Simple, really. My parents are alive. I want to share our life with them.
You know, as I sold bread and lamb and chatted with old friends and made some new, it felt right and good explaining to folks the benefits of freshly milled grains. The difference in grass-finished meats. And as sad as I was to think of saying our goodbyes, there was also a confidence that our story is not finished. I told someone that when I went down to Texas to look at properties, I discovered that there was no one in the area milling grains and making the types of breads I do. Who knows how long it will take to get things up and running? But I have hope that the amazing, no, stunning, community that is developing here is available for us all over the world. I felt hopeful that as we move to a completely different climate and culture, we would find our niche in this lovely, organic thing called neighborhood, that extends beyond the few blocks of a zoned community.
Yeah, yeah, sounds sappy, maybe. But if you don't believe me, just come on out to one of our markets and check out the vibe. It isn't just me being sentimental. It really is there. If you haven't seen it or felt it, just give it a shot. Wherever you live, make the effort to head out to a little farmer's market and start up a conversation with someone. You might be surprised. You might just make a friend. Or two or three or more.
3 comments:
I am sure that you won't have any trouble finding a market for your unique breads in Texas. Hope that there is a farmers market or a co-op in the area.
Texas was the first and is the largest producer of organic grains in the US so you'll have good grains to bake.
I kept goats briefly. I much prefer fencing almost any other animal. Goats live to get out. Good luck finding good homes for them.
Hi Kat! There are three within 20 or 30 miles! And another one a bit farther on. Hopefully we will find our niche~
Hi Chris! Wow, I never knew. Would be awesome to source those grains. You are so right about goats living to get out! We are counting the hours they have been kept in their field and they haven't gotten out. I think we are up to 28, give or take a half hour!
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