This morning we woke-up to a nice cool morning after a wonderful rain and knew the weather was definitely shifting. Last Monday Proeun and I went to the Minnesota State Fair–the last day and for many Minnesotans the unofficial last day of summer.
We hadn’t gone to the fair for several years. This year was a little different, rather then going for pure entertainment, we were working. As members of Minnesota Grown we were asked to volunteer our time at the organization’s booth. Our task was to pass out the free directories listing farms and farmers markets across the state and make sure people knew about the wonderful on-line resource that allowed you to search your area by product you were looking for. In exchange we had the opportunity to share a little bit about our farm, our story and our products.
The booth was in the agricultural building. I don’t remember ever going there growing up honestly. But now as an adult committed to nourishing my mind and body (and my family’s and customers and the earth) I see what an important role agriculture plays in that and learning about other farms and farmers. I loved seeing all the fruits and veggies grown here, the bee products and the flowers. I have recently discovered a love for cut flowers, maybe a next year addition to the farm? Anyway here is just one of the amazing flowers on display.
Since we were working and the fair often looks like this
I wasn’t relishing the idea of trying to keep track of four children, so thanks to grandma and grandpa only Effie came. She promptly stole the show.
Always finding new places to play and new people to talk to. She is Minnesota Grown after all. It was a great day at the farm and really helped me remember what I love about farming and why we are doing what we are doing.