Slow Food Harvest Dinner at Big River Farms

This afternoon, Jim and I had the honor of visiting Big River Farms. It has been a hope of Jim's for some time, to acquire land for the Karen refugees. We both know the healing that comes from digging in the dirt, but neither of us would have a clue about gardening if we were deposited into a foreign country. At Big River Farms participants are exposed to the realities of running an independent farm: not just the work of producing food, but the details of running a successful business. The farm, run by MFA, has joined Karen and Hmong farmers with other participants from Ethiopia, Liberia, Guatemala, Russia, Bhutan, Kenya and the United States. They grow produce, share their experiences and develop production and marketing skills.

When we arrived, we were given some locally brewed drinks and taken on a tour of the farm lead by the man you see above. One of the Karen families Jim knows was working on their plot. I cannot share with you the details of what this family endured to reach this place, but I can tell you that Jim's heart was filled with joy at seeing this family doing what they love and mine was filled with pride in knowing that Jim made it physically possible for it to happen against many odds.

After the tour, a silent auction, and several farmer led small groups, we were led into the barn where we enjoyed a 4-course white tablecloth dinner prepared by a quartet of top chefs from Tilia, Sen Yai Sen Lek , Corner Table, and Birchwood Café. The chefs from these amazing restaurants purchase their produce and herbs from the Big River Farmers and other local and conscientious food producers. The farmers tell the chefs about their produce and sometimes, in case of ethic specific produce, explain how to prepare the food.

I could go on and on about how amazing this place was. The whole day really affirmed our belief that all living things are connected.