When I started Busy Brain Sanctuary almost a month ago, it was simply a blog, a space to vent, share stories, and talk honestly about life and mental health. It grew quickly, and I know some of you might be thinking, “Christal, you’re flying by the seat of your pants starting something else already!”

And honestly… you’re not wrong. But I’m learning there’s no time like the present.

It all began with cookies. I made a few batches for friends, and people started saying, “These are cookies I’d actually buy.” I’ve heard that for nearly ten years — that I should sell what I bake — but I never had the courage to step out and do it. Between chasing promotions and taking on extra work, I lost sight of my passion.

Recently, though, I’ve been finding my way back. Baking for birthdays, family gatherings, and Mother’s Day reminded me how much joy it brings — not just to me, but to others. When I baked for my husband’s coworkers and asked for honest feedback from people who didn’t even know me, the response was overwhelming: “These are delicious.” “I’d spend money on these.”

That’s when the idea started to take shape. I began researching how to make it happen and found inspiration close to home — Tate Family Farm in Cache (if you haven’t tried her milk, you’re missing out!) and Wild Oaks Farm Stand in Indiahoma, whose TikTok presence is amazing. Seeing what they’ve built made me realize I could start small, right here on my porch.

I already had tables, a vision, and a heart full of hope. My husband, in his ever‑steady way, said, “Slow down, Christal — bake it into what you already have.” So we did. We toyed with names, dreamed big, and landed on Busy Brain Pantry — a cozy, homegrown extension of the Sanctuary.

This little porch stand will start small, but it’s built on a big dream: to bring something to our community that helps us connect, support one another, and grow together. I’m still learning how to run a business like this, and I know there will be bumps along the way. That’s why I welcome your feedback — the good, the bad, and the ugly. I want to learn, improve, and create for you.

And don’t worry — I’m not trying to take over the Sanctuary with the Pantry. The Sanctuary will always be the heart of my story, where I share my mental‑health journey and the messy, beautiful parts of life. The Pantry is simply another piece of that story — a way to turn creativity and comfort into something tangible.

Over the next few days, I’ll be posting prices and working on the Pantry section of the website. The first couple of weeks, the menu will stay consistent, and as we gain traction, I’ll start sliding in new items and expanding what’s available.

So here we go — one cookie, one loaf, one step at a time. Stay tuned… the best is yet to come. 💛