evelyn’s: the coffeehouse and cafe in historic pigtown, baltimore, md

To my dear friends, neighbors, and customers,

I want to take this opportunity to thank every one of you for the support you’ve shown me (and my children) during this stressful time. I can’t find the right words to express the depth of love and gratitude I feel right now, but please know that I am completely overwhelmed by your kind words and the incredible help you’ve given me.

When I moved to Pigtown eight years ago — it was supposed to be temporary. I never intended to stay here for much more than a year or two, as I’ve never had a place that I could refer to as “home” — until now. I’ve grown to love this neighborhood so much, and I can’t imagine ever having to leave here, to leave you. Each of you have touched my life…and my son’s life…in such wonderful ways, and I can never thank you enough.
I had a conversation with someone the other day about the concept of family — what that word truly means. Since moving here, I have become a believer in the idea that the title of “family” belongs to the people and places we hold dear, and bloodlines have nothing to do with it. My customers, my suppliers, my friends — you all have given me such a sacred opportunity — one that allowed me to finally look at myself in the mirror and know that what I’m doing makes a difference, if but in a small way. I am going to try my best to never let you down, and to continue to make our community a better place for all of us, despite the obstacles we’re facing.

Thank you again, from the bottom of my heart.

Carol Ott