I like to think that when George Strait sang the song “Heartland”, he had a place in mind of peace, fun, honesty and good old country values. In his words “Simple people living side by side still wave at their neighbors when they're driven by” tell it all.

There is a place where this is still the way of life, where yes is yes, no is no and the people still wave to and respect each other. A place where the elders still meet in the morning for a hot cup of coffee, some good jokes and to solve the world's problems.

This is Custer Washington. Custer is located 15 miles south of the Blaine Border Crossing in Whatcom County. Here you can see what we call “Custer Pride” in the eyes and smiles of the people as they go in and out of the Custer Country Store. The Custer Country Store is more than just a store, it is a landmark. Built in 1883 it has been owned and operated to serve the needs of Custer by five owners. The current owner is Nicole Perri.

Nicole, a lifelong Custer resident, traveled the world before coming home to settle down and purchase the store. Nicole among other things was a cattle and horse wrangler on a dude ranch in Australia. Nicole brings a balance of good service, true commitment, and love to the people of Custer. Just looking into her eyes at the counter you see and feel the love... not just the store but for everyone in the community around her. Yes, Custer is greatly blessed to have Nicole.

As you enter the store you will see tables where people come in all thoughout the day for coffee, lunch, or to just sit down and say hi. As you look around you, find yourself in a museum made up from the history of Custer itself. From the Class pictures hung proudly over the coolers to the old tools around the store, you find yourself stepping back in history itself.

Here are two of the comments you can find on the internet about the store.