You may have noticed a Destination Candle called Heron Pond Farm and wondered about the name. This candle is to recognize and honor my brother and his business partner/friend Greg. Their beautiful farm is nestled in the rolling hills and mountains of South Hampton New Hampshire. Providing over 250 varieties of Organic vegetable, fruit and flowers to families in and around the area for well over 20 years now. Their journey started in college where they studied Soil Science together. Then in 1998 renting only 2 small acres of land to start farming on their own. The following year, with help from James and Jocelyn VanBokkelen, they were able to purchase a more permanent home in South Hampton. Where I believe they have successfully achieved their goal to become a permanent part of the landscape. In the year 2000, Walter and Blanche Syvinki retired from Valley Acres Farm and turned operations over to Andre and Greg making the farm the staple of what people see today. Like the farmers before them, these two farmers are committed to preserving open land and own hundreds of acres. The farm uses about 60 acres of land in the area for organic farming. Andre and Greg have been providing food for families and restaurants for years. Their CSA is loved by so many, so in 2014 they became one of many farmers to be part of the Three River Farmers Alliance. A Group of Farmers that supplies Vegetables, fruit, cheeses, meats and more in households in New Hampshire, Maine and Massachusetts. When the height of the Covid pandemic hit they formed Veggie-Go that now delivers these farm fresh and regionally sourced goods to homes. With Andre and Greg’s commitment to the land and people in their communities it’s no wonder they have been so successful. But more importantly they have created a sense of family and friendship. You could see them at a farmers market or go to their farm stand and you will instantly feel like you belong. Because it’s the people of New Hampshire, Massachusetts, and the surrounding areas that have made them what they are today. I am so proud of Heron Pond Farm and the blood, sweat, and tears Andre Cantelmo and Greg Balog have put into it. Not only because it’s family, but because of all they do to give back as a Thank you for supporting them. As I go to visit family and walk the farm I get a sense of peace. A relaxation as I can smell all the wonderful food growing around me. The Farm has been there as both Andre and Greg started their life after college. It has been there to see both be married on her lands. It has seen the birth of my brothers son. It has become a living, breathing, peaceful beautiful place. It will be wonderful to witness all the happy moments yet to come. But in the meantime light a Heron Pond Farm candle and savor the fragrance of tomato leaves and the land of this wonderful peaceful place.