Cleaning out old files, I stumbled upon a bill, fall 1984, from Whittle’s Willow Spring Farm, with a handwritten note: “Just send a little whenever you can, no hurry on this. I know you spent a lot more than you expected. Bob.” This was 40 years ago, building my house and needing a lot of dirt fill. Truck after truck, delivered by Ricky Whittle and his dad, Bob.

Recently, I needed to call Whittle’s to see if they delivered stone and dirt. “Yes, call Phil.” Phil is Rick’s son, fifth generation. Once, he said to call him at 9:30 a.m. the next day for quantity and delivery time. I was surprised; 9:30 seemed late to start the workday. Since I decided on a bigger load, I called Rick instead, at 9:30. When I told him I’d let Phil know the change, his response, “He’s here; we are picking corn; I will let him know.” My heart swelled with gratitude – the family is harvesting before their other workday starts.

I continue to be impressed by the family’s dedication. I showed Rick the 1984 invoice, and he warmly smiled, “That’s my dad.” He then gestured around and said “without customers, all this would be condos.” Whittle’s Farm is still running, the family, the workers, the customers. We need you; we value you. Other communities with local farms feel the same way.

Maggie Rogers

Mystic