Taking Stock
Gratitude, good food, and making room for what's next.
Hola Gastroventures Family,
There are seasons in life when it's important to stop chasing what's next and simply appreciate where you are.
Lately, I've been thinking a lot about that.
By many measures, I don't have a lot. I don't have a big house. I don't have a fancy car. I certainly don't have a lot of money.
But when I really stop and take stock, I feel incredibly rich.
I have a husband who makes me laugh every day and constantly inspires me with his creativity. I have my mom here beside me, sharing in this adventure. I have my family in the United States who, even though we're far apart, remain deeply connected to my life. I have two wonderful dogs who remind me every day to slow down and appreciate the little things. And I have incredible friends, loyal customers, and a community that has welcomed me with more kindness than I ever imagined.
And then there's Gastroventures.
What started as a simple idea has grown into something I'm genuinely proud of. Every week I get to cook food I love for people I enjoy seeing. I get to experiment with new recipes, listen to your feedback, and watch favorite dishes become permanent parts of the menu.
Looking back over the first six months of 2026, we've introduced quite a few monthly specials. Some have become customer favorites, while others quietly had their moment and made room for something new.
So I've decided that July will be my month to take stock—not just personally, but professionally too.
Over the next few weeks I'll be taking a fresh look at the Gastroventures menu. Some of this year's monthly specials may earn a permanent place, while a few lower-selling items may quietly retire. My goal is to create a menu that truly reflects what you enjoy eating and what I love making.
By the end of July, you'll see a refreshed Gastroventures menu that celebrates the best of the first half of 2026 while making room for new ideas in the months ahead.
Thank you for being part of this journey. Every order, every suggestion, every kind word, and every Thursday morning at the market has helped shape this little business into what it is today.
I can't wait to share what's next.
With gratitude,
Emily
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This Week at the Market
Featured Menu Item: Black Bean Ceviche
A refreshing blend of black beans, sweet corn, tomatoes, peppers, red onion, cilantro, and fresh citrus. Light, bright, and perfect for a healthy summer meal.
Please place your order as soon as possible so I have plenty of time to shop for and prepare the freshest ingredients.
Pick up Thursday at the Cotacachi Farmers Market from 9:00–11:30 am.
If you can't make it by 11:30, please contact me to make other arrangements.
