Once the building was habitable, it was time for them to execute their vision of the general store. The goal was to simply make Pioneer Pantry a store that they would want to shop in. As the shelves filled up with inventory, they were happy with the direction of business. Local customers find just about everything they could want.

Heather was struck by a new inspiration: yarn. Thus, a farm was born. The number of animals continued to grow. Today, the farm (only 5 miles north) has a handful of alpacas which are the source of their line of handmade yarn. Not to mention, the chickens, rabbits and other furry friends.

Pioneers Purl - the upstairs of the shop - is the result. Imagine if Willy Wonka was obsessed with yarn instead of chocolate. Beyond having all of the supplies you could ask for, you can find the full process Heather uses to convert the raw wool into dazzling, colorful, premium yarn.

Both Pioneer Pantry and Pioneers Purl are open on the weekends, where Nick and Heather are there to greet you with a smile. The rehabilitated store will be a staple of the local Brussels community for many years to come!