Happy Valentine’s Day! Meet another one of our wonderful employees, Karmen Mejia-Ford!
- Where did you grow up?
I grew up in White City and then my family moved us to Medford, so I’ve been in the Rogue Valley my entire life! - What is something about you that would surprise people?
I was born cross-eyed and they had to do a surgery to fix it, so if you look closely in my eye, you can see the little permanent stitch. - What is the best meal you ever had?
My mom makes oxtail soup, which is this rendered-down stew with really tender carrots, celery, onions, and sweet garlic with a ton of spices added. She learned it from my abuela and it is absolutely delicious! - What is your favorite time of year?
I really love springtime (I swear I’m not biased because my birthday is in the spring!) You get the best deals if you want to go to the coast and stay overnight because it’s still pretty cold, but I don’t mind because we get to see the coast! - Where is your favorite spot in Ashland?
My husband and I have a favorite shop downtown, Manzanita Home and Flowers. I’m obsessed with plants and this store is so beautiful! - What are some of your hobbies?
Outside of work, I like to paint and sketch and am actually building my art portfolio because I want to be a tattoo artist. - Tell me about your favorite pet you’ve ever had.
I actually didn’t get to have pets when I was growing up because my entire family was allergic to them. I do get to have a dog now though, a three-year-old Maltese Shih Tzu named Hiccup! She looked like the tiniest potato when she was a puppy and was always hiccupping. - Who has been the most influential person in your life?
There are a handful, but my abuela is definitely one of them. Her name was Juana and she passed away in 2021, but up until the very last moment, she was always making sure everyone else was taken care of. She used to take us to yard sales on Saturdays to look for deals and now I want to continue that with my future family. - What is a mantra you like to live by?
Mine helps guide my shopping decisions! “If it’s there next time, I’ll get it.” My husband appreciates this mantra because it definitely saves us money! - What is your favorite thing about working at Paddington Station?
I love the community we have here. I feel so supported and cared for by everyone who works in the stores.