Deep Creek Farm Stand a throwback to a more neighborly time

The sign says it's a farm stand, its Facebook page says it's a grocery store, but Deep Creek Farm Stand is far, far more than either. Nestled in the beautiful cedars of the former home and studio of Boundary County icons Lew and Jean Mace, it is now a uniquely wonderful "community friendly, happening place," where customers are trusted and the products a testament to the amazing talents and skills of our Boundary County neighbors.

You can get milk, bread and eggs (chicken, duck and quail) at the Deep Creek Farm Stand. Fresh vegetables in season, meats, cheeses, frozen fruit, yogurt. There are prepared foods as well; baked goods such as cakes, cookies and pies, fry pies, bourikas, cheesecake, apple crisp and cookie dough, sourdough pizza crust.

But then there's also art work, knit goods, gifts, craft items, jewelry, home decor and so much more ... the truth is, the inventory changes so fast there's no telling just what you'll find each time you stop in! And it's all grown, gathered, raised, made or crafted by local producers, with over 50 local vendors now providing goods and wares on sale in this amazing little store.

What you won't find at Deep Creek Farm Stand are long lines at the register, mainly because there are no registers, no cashiers. Just a small wooden cash box on a table. All sales are cash and farm stand bucks only and all sales are made on the honor system.

If, for instance, you pick out a bill of goods totaling $18 and all you have is a $20, you have a few choices.

You can donate $2 or you can grab a brownie or some such valued at $2. You can check the cash box for two one dollar bills or change to that effect, or you can take $2 in Deep Creek Farm Stand bucks to redeem on your next purchase.

Raymond and Deborah (to whom the quote in the first paragraph is attributed) Luther have owned and operated the farm across the road for 18 years, and they opened Deep Creek Farm Stand last August after purchasing "The Cedars," as Lew and Jean fondly called the property. Their intent, Deborah said, was to build on the Mace legacy and carry on their dedication to being good neighbors and serving the community.

"We're blessed in this community with so many amazing and talented people," Deborah said.

Deep Creek Farm Stand, 5327 Deep Creek Loop, Bonners Ferry, is open from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday and 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. weekends. It's tucked back in the trees, so be sure to keep an eye out for the white reader board at the edge of the drive! To learn more call (208) 691-6656.