From My Farmhouse Kitchen

At least once a week I find myself in The lamb at the market is raised by town. It’s a feat that surprises me as I Travis and Kaylene Hawkins, who live claim to be a homebody who despises over by Akron. They were kind enough to shopping. Well, I don’t think that there is show us their farm on a lovely spring an ounce of truth in those claims. day. It was so good to see their young In fact, I have been finding myself looking forward to having an errand which brings me to town. I think it must have something to do with a sense of belonging. FROM MY sons learning to work by just being out there with dad and mom. I think Don and Myra Nelson should do a bit more matchmaking! When I am at a store, I usually am greeted by the store owner or employee — often by my name. Isn’t that special? It is when you think about it. FARMHOUSE KITCHEN By Renae B. Vander Schaaf The Craft Central store exceeds my craftiness gene with all their offerings. The store shelves are filled with many items useful in our cooking, living and for gift giving. All this

Usually when in a shopping and crafting store I bump into some- takes energy, and since one who I haven’t see energy comes from food, for a while. It’s a good I’m happy to see popped time to catch up on popcorn on their each other’s lives. We shelves made by the De all have joys we want to Witt family from Sioux tell others, and burdens Falls. that lie heavy on hearts that need sharing. After all, shared joy is a double joy, and shared sorrow is half (Swedish proverb). Will and Heidi De Witt, along with their sons Carter and Camden, plus daughter Morgan, came up with the idea about five

Many times our con- years ago while vacaversation ends with tioning on the beach. “You know, we should They couldn’t find two get together for a cup of of their favorite foods — coffee.” Thankfully we namely popcorn and saltwater taffy — that met can spontaneously do this as there are several plac- their healthy lifestyle,es which offer good hot coffee and irresistible treats that aren’t found in any other hometown. Instead of just talking about the idea, they actually turned it into a business: Salty Pop Popcorn.

I am learning that going out for breakfast occasion- Their slogan, “A Wave of Flavor,” was inspired by ally in my hometown is another good place to recon- ocean waves and the logo and packaging were nect with members of our community. After break- inspired by the sunset over the water. No wonder fast, it is the perfect time to do a little shopping. we like the popcorn so much. It takes us on a relax-

Each store offers its own unique item that appeals ing beach vacation. to me and is needful. At Woudstra Meat Market, I My favorite at this time happens to be their am first amazed at the owners’ green thumbs. All creamy caramel. But by the time you read this, it winter long, outdoor plants they took in before last may have changed to Stroopwafel popcorn. I wonder fall’s first frost have remained picture perfect. with their name as De Witt, how much Dutch Bingo Throughout the year, lilies, gladiolus by the bushel, we would have to play before we found a mutual and other floral bouquets are often given to custom- relative? ers to enjoy. Going into Centrum Foto Studio is like walking

But my purpose is to make sure I have a steady into an art gallery. Proprietor Ken Fry excels in the supply of their delectable meats. I keep at least one art of photography. Thankfully he shares his work package of smoked cured beef (aka dried beef) in the with the rest of us, who marvel at God’s creation. freezer (so handy for many reasons), side pork for He has made many of his photos into wall hangings breakfasts, and of course, their many different kinds or cards which are appropriate for sending to others of sausages. no matter the occasion.

Recently I purchased a lamb roast to serve to my He also sells cards hand-crafted by expatriate Sunday dinner guests. It was a hit and so simple to women prisoners in Quito, Ecuador. My understandfix, just season with the usual salt and pepper, fen- ing is that if you are in prison there, you have to nel and rosemary, and a few garlic cloves before put- somehow provide for your basic needs such as food, ting in the oven. This may just be my go-to meat soap and toilet paper. These cards are a source of when I know company is coming. honest employment for these women.

There are many more places to shop at in my hometown. I’m thankful stores are close by when most anything is needed.

While I enjoy shopping in my hometown I also enjoy shopping in yours. When my farmer locates a piece of machinery in an advertisement he has read, we often go together to have a looksee. A knitting project and my camera are the first things I pack for this excursion. Because one never knows what one will find along the way.

One of my favorite buildings to photograph in any community is the church. These buildings were built by people who needed a place to worship God, to hear the word of God preached, to help and/or be helped by other members. It’s where that real sense of belonging happens as we draw near to Christ, repenting of our sins, believing in our Lord Jesus Christ and striving to live a life that pleases Him.

Renae B. Vander Schaaf is an independent writer, author and speaker. Contact her at (605) 530-0017 or agripen@live.com. v