Food and Community, The Heart of Spain

As we all gather to celebrate, feast and exchange gifts with our families, it is the perfect time to pause and be thankful for the beautiful things in life. I am so thankful for our La Tienda community, our family and this year, especially, our wonderful father, Don Harris. He reveled in the sense of community that he found in the Spanish people, and he wanted to share that sense of loving support that defined Spain for him. After his passing this spring at the age of 88, we continue to feel his spirit in everything we do at La Tienda.

For over 50 years, Don traveled to every corner of Spain, creating friendships that lasted a lifetime. Yes, he was excited to find a great new extra virgin olive oil or artisan Ibérico ham. But his true passion was creating deep connections with Spanish friends and getting to know their extended family. He loved how children are treasured in Spain and included in family events, even late into the night. In his bones, he understood the Spanish people valued community, and he wanted to be a part of it. 

Don shared that spirit of community with us all, from his work as a Navy Chaplain to his founding of La Tienda in 1996, a family affair if there ever was one! We started in our family’s basement, with jamones hanging from the ceiling as we took orders by phone. My mother Ruth, my brothers and our spouses all worked hard to make La Tienda thrive.  We are so thankful that, 28 years later, we are still here, sharing our love for Spain with you.

A few years ago, Don wrote a book, The Heart of Spain, filled with his essays about Spain. I particularly love this passage:

“I have concluded that the treasure of Spain is the family and the way they cherish their children, surrounding them with love. Nearly as important is the way family members and friends meet around the table to enjoy good food and their relationships with one another.”

We hope that the foods of Spain bring the warmth and joy of Spain to your family.

¡Feliz Navidad!

The Harris Family