I had a great day. Back to my rocking chair in the porch this morning, enjoying Folgers coffee. Some of the brew that we would get at truck stops was pretty awful, but . . . it was that or nothing.
Who knew that shredded wheat would be missed? Just a good simple breakfast that makes me feel like starting the day. That start did include walking the acre. I do believe that tomorrow will be the day to mow the yards – one more time. We have said that several times this fall. I will man the weed whip and take care of the areas that Dennis can’t quite get with the rider mower.
Fall weather is so enjoyable, but the winds today made the clouds feel very chilly. I went up to the farmers market this afternoon. In times past, I knew the market was in town with multiple vendors, but would not feel compelled to visit it, not until I happened to stop in and I met Joel. Joel is the fellow who I enjoy shopping from, and often. His family was challenging Joel when he and his family first began coming to St. James. Joel is shy and found making eye contact with the shoppers difficult. Joel’s father came to St. James with Joel as the routine of setting up the tent and the display of their wares took time for it to become successful three times a week. The father was nearby as Joel began taking charge of customer’s needs and answering questions. Joel was thoughtful about counting out the change that was needed for each customer. What the family offers at the market is a bounty of baked goods, canned goods, every item that can possibly be grown in a garden, is on their tables. The price of each of the items has a label tapped to the table adjacent to the product. Joel was taught to be very careful about the labels as to not confuse the customer as to what the product would cost them.
These last two seasons, Joel no longer needs anyone from his family to assist him. Three days a week, earlier than perhaps needed, as the market does not open until 1:00 p.m., he is in the park making his stand look very desirable and organized. He drives over from his family farm in a pickup, trailer in tow, and becomes a business man. I am so proud of him. Joel may have challenges in some aspects of his life, but he is focused and he is successful.
Today when I walked across the parking lot to the park there was no own else about due to the chilly weather. Joel greeted me and announced to me that I was the fourth customer for the day and he had many specials to share. He is now comfortable in his own skin and the confidence shows. Let me tell you, he was ready to sell me many more items than I had come to purchase. Sell me, he did. I did purchase more than I had thought I would. His goodies don’t go to waste. I have shared some ginger molasses cookies and some chocolate chip cookies with Kersten and Kevin. Joel’s goodies are enjoyed here on Stauffer as well. I have a stash of potatoes, onions and squash in the garage that we will be enjoying long after the market closes down for the season. Yes, we will miss the baked goodies as well.
I feel blessed to have gotten to know this young fellow who has so much to offer, and it is not only what is on his market tables.