"I really love the grass roots effort of building a grocery store together with my neighbors, and being able to choose what WE believe is in Whitewater's best interest."

This is Owner #159, Krista Mikulski, supervisor at UPS and laser engraving extraordinaire! We sat down to learn a little about her and find out her thoughts on becoming an Owner.

GroCo: Tell us a little about yourself?

Krista: I am a supervisor at UPS in Janesville. My husband and I also have a laser engraving business. After raising five kids, I'm a recent empty-nester, but expecting my first grandchild in early 2020. My obsessions include my dogs, my Subarus, sustainable plant-based living, obviously the GroCo, oh, and espresso! I recently invested in an espresso maker and mastering the perfect cup (using organic, fair-trade beans from local GroCo Owner Bowers Lake Coffee, of course!) has become an obsession of mine!

GroCo: Why did you become an Owner of the Whitewater Grocery Co.?

Krista: I really love the grass roots effort of building a grocery store together with my neighbors, and being able to choose what WE believe is in Whitewater's best interest. I'm so excited that this will be so much more than a place to buy food. This will be a place to support our neighbors, and a place to learn and grow together. This will be a place where we can make healthy decisions for our families and our community.

GroCo: What's your favorite recipe?

Krista: It's so hard to pick one favorite recipe. I have a favorite food blogger that comes up with some amazing, healthy and easy recipes. I guess if I HAD to choose, I'd pick his cauliflower tacos. I totally get what you're thinking, "Cauliflower tacos, why bother?" I kid you not, this has all the comforting characteristics of the beef tacos my mother used to make, it's delicious, and it's actually healthy! This recipe is just as versatile as ground beef. I can tweak it and use it in so many ways! (Shared with permission from Brand New Vegan) https://www.brandnewvegan.com/recipes/mexican-food/amazing-cauliflower-tacos 

GroCo: What's the quirkiest/funniest thing that's ever happened to you in a grocery store?

Krista: Not funny or quirky, but I've got a touching story. About 27 years ago when my twins were toddlers, I had my daughter in the cart, and my son wanted to walk. When I denied him some sugary treat he wanted me to buy, he threw himself to the ground in a tantrum. After a moment of coaxing, he wouldn't get up, so I took a couple steps in hopes that he'd realize I was serious about moving on. My daughter immediately panicked although I assured her that he'd figure it out quickly and continue on with us. I'll never forget the degree of care and concern in her voice when she cried out "But Mom! LOOK AT HIM!" I was so moved at the bond the two of them already shared... that, and it was at that moment I realized I would never again judge a parent with a rebellious toddler in the grocery store!