I believe humans get a lot done,
not because we’re smart,
but because we have thumbs so we can make coffee.
[Flash Rosenberg]
The only business buildings in our residential neighborhood sit a block east of my house—three connected brick, 1920s-vintage structures that sit back from the street with a concrete plaza in front. Until recently, a bill collection agency occupied the corner building. I called them, The Knuckle Busters. They moved out several months ago. After weeks of renovation, a new business opened there last Saturday—The Friendly Fox: coffee, confections and comfort.
This morning at 7:30, I strolled over to The Friendly Fox and enjoyed a cup of hazelnut coffee and an apple scone. What a happy, comfortable, pretty place. The owner said she has awnings and tables so she can set up an outdoor space next spring.
I prefer living in small towns where I can walk to local businesses. Fort Wayne is the second-largest city in Indiana so, during the twenty years I’ve lived here, I’ve often longed to move to a smaller place. During my one-block walk back home this morning, I realized that The Friendly Fox makes my neighborhood feel like a small town. I think I’ll paint my picket fence and stay here awhile longer.
Knitting, writing and other joys 
Do you know the history of those buildings in the plaza where the Friendly Fox now stands? When I was a kid in the 60’s, the FF was Schmidt Drugstore, complete with a soda fountain. In addition, there was a hardware store, a small Halls Restaurant, and the Shawnee branch of the Allen Co Library system. South Wayne Ave was a major bus route to downtown – where the action was before the malls.
Hi Katherine, If I stop by, can we go for a coffee at the Friendly Fox? I have been wanting to try it. We have been imagining living where we could bike to wherever we want to go. We just returned from Sanibel Island where we biked or walked most places. Moving under our own steam was a big part of our enjoying our stay.
Blessings, love and I look forward to that coffee at the Fox! C.
Yes, either a village or a village inside a city, neither of which I live in… I’ve always wanted to live in a village… everything close at hand, for the most part, within walking distance and for the rest? a trusty bicycle! with a basket… :^)