Autumn's Approach

So often, when we hear the word "Autumn," we think, "Oh, no, that means winter is almost here!" We tend to overlook one of the most beautiful seasons in Michigan, all because of the dreadful, long months of Old Man Winter.

But we would like to encourage everyone to take some time (go ahead, sit back and relax for just a second) and think of all the wonderful things Autumn has to offer.

First off, let's take a look at that name - "Autumn." Isn't that beautiful? Ethereal, almost. It's in that beautiful name that we find blossoming mums, pie pumpkins ripening in the warm sun, cinnamon, nutmeg, and coriander drifting from the kitchen window, and, of course, the radiant colors from Maple trees scattered across the landscape. "Autumn" is your favorite family meal, perhaps a roasted chicken, seasoned with fresh rosemary from your garden, or sweet corn, smothered in savory butter. "Autumn" is also a time for communion; a time for family, friends, and, dare I say, football.

Football punted aside (no pun(t) intended), the fellowship of autumn is of the utmost significance, especially entering into long, hard, cold months. It lets us know that we are not alone and that we have something to share with one another; this sharing is, more often than not, a meal.

Isn't funny how we always come together for food. We've noticed this in the past month when we celebrated in a fundraiser to battle breast cancer at Arcadia Ales in Battle Creek and a benefit Harvest Dinner for Fair Food Matters at Food Dance in Kalamazoo. (Be sure to check out our "Links" page to learn more about these two FANTASTIC restaurants!) Here are some photos from each dinner:

At Food Dance Harvest Benefit Dinner.

Karen and Arcadia's amazing Chef Sean at Breast Cancer Benefit Dinner.

Arcadia Ales' Finest!

Whatever brings you to the table to celebrate Autumn and all that it brings, we hope that you have some of our all-natural pork and poultry on your table. Keep it local, seasonal, and all natural.

Enjoy these days. Enjoy your friends. Enjoy your family.

We hope to see you soon!