We become. It takes a long time. -The Velveteen Rabbit- {Marjory Williams, written in 1921}

Good things take time.

As a child, we read these beautiful children’s books that are written to teach us lessons. But do we actually hear the words these books have spoken?

The art of slow living is a habit that is learned and takes time, intention, and discipline.

In place of goals for the coming year, let’s state our hopes and dreams. Doesn’t that feel more enchanting? Cultivating relationships, taking care of ourselves properly, and living with intention can be life altering and will suspend moments in time.

Balance can be achieved this year, when we plan accordingly.

There is a method to looking back, while simultaneously looking forward, that can help us live fully in the present. I am excited to explore that lifestyle this year! What is it that’s been on your list that may have gotten pushed to the side? What are your long term plans that need a little attention this year in order to become a reality someday? What are the things on your list that no longer serve you well or need to be crossed off to make room for things that better suit you? January is the perfect time to take a second look at the path you are on and make necessary adjustments. January is my favorite time of year!

This past May of 2023, I learned something from a speech given at my son’s college graduation ceremony. I don’t think I expected to learn something at the ceremony, but this young graduate delivered such an eloquent speech that I was inspired. Jethro Casie spoke of the journey that all of the graduates had taken over the past four years. He likened it to a marathon, and painted such a beautiful picture with his words of how he had started his race in 2019, and how he progressed through peaks and valleys, sometimes walking, sometimes running. Sometimes alone and sometimes alongside his peers. At times he learned to stop and rest, at times he learned to speed up the pace. There were days where he could see the finish line from the peak of the mountain and days when he was running blindly through the valley. The lesson I took away from this young man’s speech was inspirational. The lesson I kept visualizing was pace.

The meaning of pace as defined in Websters dictionary: 1. A single step taken when walking or running. 2. consistent and continuous speed in walking, running or moving. The speed at which someone or something moves, or with which something happens or changes. To do something at a speed that is steady and that allows you to continue without becoming too tired.

For this year, 2024, I see the word pace. Such a simple concept, yet so vital to our health and our ability to thrive.

This year at our market, you will continue to see our methods of PACE. I’ve decided to use it as an acronym to help all of us at the market and in our family, stay on track.

P lan ahead

A nticipate great things

C ommunicate and stay curious

E ncourage enthusiasm

We are excited and enthused to begin this brand new year at our market. Our family has taken the first week of January to rest and recoup. We are now planning ahead for all of the great things that we will experience this year. We will communicate with all of you through this blog, Chowfancy.com , as a look back to the last several years. On our instagram, @randsmeatmarket and @chowfancy as a “real time” documentation of all things in current motion. In physical conversations with all of you who visit us daily and present us with ideas and fun stories that propel us forward.

Thanks for the love and support from each and every one of you. Our family is grateful for your friendship and loyalty …always!

Cheers to 2024!

Keri & Anthony

Anthony Jr., Jake and Logan

and the rest of our team at R&S Meat Market, Huntington New York