July 1st was an exciting day at Falling Oaks! Our lofted barn was delivered and set up in place. We purchased a 14 x 28 custom shed from Summit Structures and could not be happier with the results. It sits prominently at the end of our drive - visible from Territorial Hwy. It is barn red (of course) and is exactly what we were hoping for! Now the fun begins with permits and interior work to make this a warm, inviting, and functional farm stand/gift shop. Our goal of early July may turn into early August for opening, but we are working daily to get it ready for customers as soon as possible. Permit inspections may take a bit... but we are working through them with the help of some friends/contractors. We have done permits in the past for our home, our shop, and most recently our barn... but it has been a while since we have done it on our own... and all during the pandemic adds a few wrinkles we weren't expecting. But... we will not let it deter us from our goal!
We are working on gathering products, testing spice mixes and baking mixes, and perfecting recipes for baked goods that will be offered in the stand. I wish I could say my gardening was going as well as the other projects... but, luckily my cousins and neighbors have amazing gardens and will be sharing with us (and you). Tomatoes, peas, corn, and much more. Cherries have come and gone, but later in the summer we will have an abundance of apples to share.
We have a great setting... near the road, but surrounded by trees, our orchard and the pond. We will add a tent for the summer to get out of the heat and give us more room for produce and enjoying the farm setting while enjoying a baked good and drink. We upgraded our driveway approach and have ample parking for our customers.
The interior is a blank canvas and we are eager to get started once the permits are submitted and approved. Next time you see the interior... it will look very different. Sheetrock and wood floors will be the starting pieces, with more displays and shelving to come a little later. We will work to keep you updated as we make progress and get closer to opening day!