Those of you who pick up food from us regularly will probably recognize Steve. You also know him from Cottagescapes Bakery, his home bakery where he creates the most delicious and soul nourishing breads and baked goods. Last Monday was his last day with NWK.

When I think back on the last 2 1/2 years working with him, I think of how he’s always been there with ideas and encouragement through the many challenges I’ve encountered. How much I enjoyed our conversation at Monday night food pick ups, and seeing him light up talking to our customers. How a huge percentage of the roasted or sauteéd vegetables you’ve eaten from us were chopped and cooked *perfectly* by Steve. How lucky my staff and I were to get to taste test his new bakes, and how much joy it brought us. How he just has a respect and love that runs so deep for flavorful, beautifully presented, nutritious vegan food that you can feel it when you talk to him. He’s one of the most humble and multi-talented people out there.

He’s taking a break from baking right now, but will be back. In the meantime, you can catch him at one of my favorite places, The Slow Down, where he can make you a mean oat milk latte and bring some great conversation into your day. Thanks for being you, Steve - if you know him, you know what I mean.