Family Trip of a Lifetime (and a BIG Lesson Learned)

When I sit down to write these notes to you, I usually look for a quiet space away from the bustle of farm life. That’s not always easy with 45+ team members working across the farm and six wonderful kids filling every corner at home.

Today, I’m writing from a picnic table outside the farmhouse where I grew up. From here, I can see our little store nestled in the front yard—a place full of memories that remind me how important family and traditions are in shaping who we become.

That’s fresh on my heart after a trip we just returned from.

Last week, six of us brothers, our families, and our parents packed up and headed three and a half hours southeast to the Hocking Hills region of Ohio.

Nearly 30 of us spent five days together hiking, playing games, cooking, and making memories that only come when 14 grandkids run wild under one roof.

Here’s a snapshot of the whole gang at the trailhead before one of our hikes:

We stayed in a ten-bedroom lodge tucked into the hills.

For an introvert like me, being surrounded by that much activity for five straight days was more stimulation than I’m used to—but the experience was rich, and I’d do it again in a heartbeat (after some quiet recovery time).

Thanks to my sister-in-law Katrina, each day had a rhythm. 

Morning hikes through Old Man’s Cave, Ash Cave, and Cedar Falls:

Evening yard games, often competitive enough to leave one brother with a minor hand injury.

Shared meals, my personal favorite. Each family took turns cooking, and the dining room buzzed with laughter, good food, and cousins catching up.

Almost every evening, we pulled out old family videos from when my brothers and I were kids—laughing, cringing, and reliving the stories that shaped us. On our final night, we circled around the campfire with popcorn and caramel apples to reflect on our favorite moments.

I asked my kids what they appreciated most. The older ones shared about the hikes and games, but my youngest—just three years old—kept it simple: “fun with Grandma.”

That answer stopped me.

Out of all the adventures, what mattered most to him was time with someone he loves. A sweet reminder that while the big moments are memorable, it’s often the simple presence of family that makes the deepest impact.

I came home grateful—for my parents, my siblings, and the family culture we’re building together. And I’m thankful for our farm team, who kept everything running while we were away, and for you—our customers—who make it all possible.

From our family to yours, may you find ways to slow down, gather, and create memories with the people who matter most.

Your farmer,

- Blaine