This weekend we had another training session through the Minnesota Food Association. Two representatives from the The Land Stewardship Project Farm Beginnings Program came to speak to us about Whole Farm Planning. Honestly I wasn’t too sure about the class. Proeun and I have been planning and dreaming for years now and I didn’t really think that we needed the class. However there is something to be said about being with like minded people. Over 12 farmers gathered together–ranging from young people wanting to return to the land, to older retired couples that are looking for the peace hard, physical labor brings. All of the farmers, except me were immigrants.

I wish I had brought my camera. There was so much brainstorming and creative juices flowing. We started out talking about why we farm. For me the answer was easy, “for our children.” Other answers were for healthy lifestyle, peace and my favorite answer from a young man named Tou “For me farming is an art–it’s more art then work.” Of course we all know that farming is work but different then the mentally draining work so many of us engage in. Art fulfills us, gives something back to us. In this way farming definitely fits the bill.

Nick from LSP said, “If you only plan for this year you will never move ahead.” So our main task was planning where you want to be in 5 years and then identifying the steps to get there–most importantly the next step. We were all given big sheets of paper and markers to draw our “dream farm in 5 years.” it was great getting it all down on paper, dreaming and color always helps. Another Tou in our class included a paintball field, ceramic house and the children he hopes to have in 5 years. He defintely taught me a few things about dreaming outside the box.

Even if you don’t want to farm, knowing where you want to be in 5 years and the steps to get there is really valuable. Recently we asked some friends of ours where they wanted to be in 5 years. They are the same age as us but just shrugged their shoulders and said, “I don’t know I guess still working.” Dreaming really set you free. Think about your “Whole Life Plan.” What do you want to change, what don’t you want to change and how will yiou make your life what you want it to be.