Four

In the months to follow, Janel’s…Naturally the café became a community center.  All the environmentalists were there, personal cup or mug in hand with a $.50 off on their organic coffee for doing their part to recycle.  The local politicos began to hang out there.  Just about everyone was non-partisan.  They just wanted a healthy community, a healthy economy.

Even the trade’s people began to frequent the café.  It became a wonderful place to find a plumber, carpenter, electrician or handy person, too.  Non-environmentalists garnered passion about our planet as information between people was shared.

Ellen came in often.  Usually on her way home from gardening in her plot in the community vegetable plot in town.  Donning a large hat, leopard boots up to her knee, gloves that almost covered her elbow were her Saturday morning attire. 

“Too early to plant corn?” she asked.

“They’ll be fine.  We are almost at that critical point,”Willy said.

“What else ya plantin?”

“I just planted Cherokee Purple Tomatoes.  Mom said they were delicious,” Ellen replied.

“Oh, they are!”  Willy said.

Ellen wasn’t too far out the door when Janel saw her.

“Honey, got a minute.  You and Mitt want some muffins for tomorrow?  They’re gluten-free, just came out of the oven.”

“Sure.  I didn’t want to disturb you. Figured you were swamped.  Lots of customers, Mom.  Good job! Ellen said.