| Results for All Regions |
 | Hi Farmer John, My name is Rachel. I am 9 years old and I am Loretta's Grand daughter. I recently saw your movie the Real Dirt on Farmer John. I really liked the film. It made me think how farms effect people. After we watched the film, my family signed up with our local CSA. We've gotten a lot of different fruits and vegetables that I had never heard of before. Last week, we visited our farm in the Capay Valley. We got to tour the farm and get onions and pumpkins! This is a very neat program and I'm glad we joined. Thank you for telling people about CSA's. It's awesome. Rachel PeloteRachel Pelote | Livermore CA United States
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 | I showed your Bug video to eldest daughter, home from college, and she said "what a pretty voice!" --and she is a critic too!Scott Wenger | Ferndale WA United States
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 | Hello, I belong to a village of Catalunya, in Spain. I have seen a reportage of tv only, John, that you are a very good person and I hope there was more people as like you, the world serious a better place. Thank you and a lot of luck!! Herman | Catalunya Spain
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 | I grew up on a farm. Well, farm land. My mom loved horses....We were in the middle of farm country. Although I knew little about farming and still wouldn’t claim to (we rented out much of the land to the local farmers and kept only one field for hay), at 42 years old, I still claim to have the best playground a child could ever have had. (My first show and tell was bringing a full horse skeleton to 1st grade that my sister and I dug up on the farm…we also brought fish eyes that we plucked out and tried to dissect the lenses from).
...I love what you’ve done and what you’re doing. And, I love the way you’ve done and are doing it. I should say you and all those who have supported you. I love and support CSA’s. Thank you, thank you. Thank all of the CSA’s in Michigan and all in Southern California. I will never stop buying locally grown foods. I will never stop thinking about what I put in my mouth! (Even though I’m not as careful always about what comes out!) | La Jolla CA United States
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 | I recently saw the documentary on Farmer John and was just blown away. One of the best films I have ever watched.. My dad sold his farm in the 1960's basically because taxes were getting too high..If only we had that land today..almost 300 acres...I dream of one day playing my guitar and writing songs near fields of plenty...I enjoyed your songs and especially to know that hey come from the heart of a real person... David | Upstate NY United States
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 | I recently saw the documentary on Farmer John and was just blown away. One of the best films I have ever watched.. My dad sold his farm in the 1960's basically because taxes were getting too high..If only we had that land today..almost 300 acres...I dream of one day playing my guitar and writing songs near fields of plenty.. I enjoyed your songs and especially to know that hey come from the heart of a real person..David | Upstate NY United States
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 | I have just watched your film. My god.....you done good. Thanks so much for just being there in the world. How wonderful and true. Here's to all farmers, even the back yard organic farmers like myself - hope we roam long and till well. Best and blessings and many many thanks,K | United States
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 | i really love your film, it is wonderful, courageous, funny, heart-wrenching, moving and educational, and a really great story to share. so thank you for putting it together. i would so love to be driving down koah road and see a farmer and his partner dressed up as bees, singing joyfully amongst a gorgeous biodynamic crop... a vision for the future, all the very best to you, and thank you also for your inspiration and for being you, and for blossoming into y o u so beautifully with csaLisa | Koah North Queensland Australia
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 | I have been listening to your songs over and over and they are lovely, witty, intelligent, FUNNY, unpredictable, amazing musical twists and turns of the unexpected with notes and words and absolutely beautiful!!!! -Laurie M | Santa Cruz CA United States
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 | It was Farmer John's movie that gave me faith right when I was considering quitting it all. At that time everything was on my shoulders and I was burning out and beginning to feel kind of hopeless! Once I saw your movie I knew 100% that my faith would create what was needed and it was destined to work out. After that final hard time, things began to turn very fast and happily into a much easier and lighter road! Right after I saw Farmer John's movie I read the E-myth book which showed me I was simply going through what many go through when turning labors of love into business. At that point I forgave myself for my many mistakes which all lead to new beginnings, approaches, ways and lead us to this good place you find us in now. So happy you join us now in this awesome place of now! Ahhhhhhhhh........ Laurie M | Santa Cruz CA United States
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 | Hi. My name is Essie Hicks and I live in Olympia, WA. I am a student at South Puget Sound Community College, and a mother of four beautiful boys. I grew up on a farm in Potomac Maryland which is now a golf stadium. Losing the farm to the golf stadium broke my heart. I loved your documentary. My Environmental Science teacher assigned it to my group, and it really touched me. I wish the farm I lived on could have been saved. Essie Hicks | Olympia WA United States
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 | Also the Lesley Littlefield CD is AWESOME! She has such a cool style that is sweet and funky and ORIGINAL and she is a d**n good singer! Katiana Giacona | CA United Kingdom
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 | My husband and I watched the documentary, The Real Dirt on Farmer John, last night. It was great! We own a Christmas tree farm in the western mountains of North Carolina and can relate to the many struggles that people who work with the earth feel on a daily basis. Thank you for the insight into your life and we are happy that you were able to get beyond the many obstacles that came your way. Mary Coan | NC United States
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 | I have never been to the midwest and for two years thinking and pondering the question, what it is like to farm? It is truly American and worth holding on to. Thank you for the film and showing the valleys and through quest and faith, the victorious summit - just great. I've always wished to work the land, my grandfather that I never met had a farm, it was sold by the time I was born and yet I believe that this love for the earth is in my blood too. It is what I've always wished to learn. Didn't waste time, signed up for CSA in my community and waiting to hear back. Oddly I am 10 miles outside of Boston, but why not here too!Holly Drumm | MA United States
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 | I teach juniors and senior business students about the power of our own projections onto others in a university class called 'Individual and Group Behavior in Organizations.' Utilizing your experience [in the classroom would be] a powerful real life example of the terrible consequences when we don't have skills to manage differences in effective ways. -V. Murphy | Aurora OH United States
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 | I could see you conducting an event called “Farming Man” as a sort of constructive midwestern take on Burning Man. I’ve always meant to organize Watering Woman. I’m glad to see that all’s going well for you, as you certainly deserve it.Carol | United States
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 | I'm looking forward to starting my second season. I love you guys and could go on and on about your wonderful farm and veggies. My husband and I don't share our box with anyone else, so I cook like crazy to avoid wasting anything. I even got a second freezer in anticipation of this season and plan to fill it with yummy things to enjoy during the winter. | Chicago IL United States
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 | Dear John, I graduated from Beloit in 1972; how could I have missed you and the farm? You did look familiar but I was on field terms for a good part of that time but...when I saw you were in San Miguel I almost flipped, since that is where I too have landed (when not living in LA). I am a photographer, shoot for magazines, and have a huge punk rock archive, and here in Echo Park we have ducks, and compost, and still that connection to the land that is so important. We bought land in Nayarit, Mexico, too, with 5 friends but somehow could not make it work together; but your whole story just really touched and inspired me. I work with non-profits too in San Miguel; so much of that land getting developed now it's tragic; new golf courses in the desert and still not clean water to drink! So how can we make it work in Mexico? OK I know I am babbling but I feel like I know you! Thank-you so much for the film, best, ann summa Ann Summa | Los Angeles CA United States
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 | It's so fun that the film is finding its way all around the world! My brother was home from China in July. He told me, "I saw John Peterson's movie for sale on the street in Shanghai. I was walking home and there it was, at one of those street vendor's DVD stands. I could hardly believe it!" He bought a copy from the DVD merchant for something like 7 yuan (about a dollar) thinking he would bring it back to the States and show you his find. But then he loaned it to some British friends in Shanghai and hadn't gotten it back, since they wanted to show it to someone else and then took off for home-leave in England before he could get it back from them. "Our friends really liked it!" Leif told me with a note of wonderment in his voice. "They really liked it," he repeated, "they said it was like the best movie ever. " He went on to tell me all the stuff they liked about it -- the details of which I can't remember (sorry). Sorry about the pirating stuff John. Hope it doesn't bother you. I'm not completely sure the shanghai pirated version comes with chinese subtitles --but if it does, you could think of it as a blessing in disguise. You can pirate their subtitles and offer the film in Chinese to the large immigrant population here in the States. Anyway, your movie is getting to an audience that would have been very difficult to reach via official, legal, channels. And now, with the Olympics going on in China, maybe even some westerners are chilling out with your film in their hotel rooms.Jennifer Cannell | United States
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 | ...I have never been to the midwest and for two years thinking and pondering the question, what it is like to farm? It is truly American and worth holding on to. Thank you for the film and showing the valleys and through quest and faith, the victorious summit - just great. I've always wished to work the land, my grandfather that I never met had a farm, it was sold by the time I was born and yet I believe that this love for the earth is in my blood too. It is what I've always wished to learn. Didn't waste time, signed up for CSA in my community. Best to all at angelicorganics.Holly | United States
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 | - a dream about fried eggs floating in a big swimming pool. but i don't think it was food, i think it was fertility. MANY years ago. hmmm. not too many fried eggs, just enough...i think it would have been frightening had it been a swimming pool FULL of fried eggs, but it wasn't. Ruth | United States
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 | Dear Farmer John, I heard your interview with Bob Edwards the other day and really was inspired to find out more about you. Your energy, perseverance, wit, and outlook is an inspiration to all of us struggling to find meaning in our lives and I look forward to learning more about your adventures. Take care and keep giving people hell.Christopher D. | United States
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 | Lesley (and John), I picked the dvd up at the rental store on impulse last night – one because of the subtitle “it ain’t easy being green”, second because of the quote from Al Gore and thirdly because of the photo on the back cover of you and John dressed up like bees. I am so inspired. I loved the film and the video and can’t stop telling people about it. Wishing you every continued success and happiness.Debbie Y. | United States
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 | Last night at the screening where I sang (which was in a beautiful location, and reminiscent of our Germany tour – surrounded by vineyards and grapes!) there was a guy there who said could never choose a film to be shown at his local film series, because the theme had always been ‘bring a film that changed your life.’ He’d never seen one that had changed his life. But last night he saw The Real Dirt, and told his wife, “this is the film I want to show at the series!!!!!” Lesley Littlefield | San Francisco CA United States
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 | Hello Lesley, I showed your Bug video to eldest daughter, home from college, and she said "what a pretty voice!" -- and she is a critic too! Your fan, ScottScott | United States
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 | We thoroughly enjoyed the Bee song as I play old-time guitar and ukulele and we just bought a bee hive last month and I've been walking around the gardens strumming the ukulele and making up impromptu bee songs. Our three year old daughter Shantidevi follows me around and sings her own impromptu ditties. Thank you both for being alive and sharing your lives and art (same thing) with the world. Pete Calanni | United States
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 | My youngest kid just watched The Real Dirt. One of her favorite parts was the scene in the store bringing back all the bags of stuff instead of having going on a real date. She loved this part. Her idea of a dream date is taking a sludge hammer to a foundation to begin a remodel!! She has visions of mitre saws and backhoes. Here are some pics of the hair salon she remodeled from the subsoil up ... She wanted me to be sure and tell you how much she enjoyed the film and wants to move to John's farm and pull weeds and turn compost. Loretta Callahan | United States
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 | I can't thank you enough for your Recipe Service! I've been having to type your recipes into the weekly newsletter, which is very time-consuming (time? who has enough of that resource?). This is awesome! And many of our members love your cookbook, too. Thanks again, Indian Ridge Farm & BakeryTony and Barclay Daranyi | Norwood CO United States
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 | Thank you for doing this Recipe Service. It really saves me time and my shareholders love the recipes. -White House Gardens CSA
Debbie Fox | United States
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 | Many Thanks Angelic Organics for the wonderful recipes, my share holders really appreciate it!! Pat Nudd | Cedar MN United States
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 | This is my first year in the Angelic Organics CSA. I got my first cabbage last week and can hardly wait for another. I have been a lifelong "fan" of cabbage. I like it raw, cooked, in sauerkraut, in kimchee, etc. But after tasting Angel Organics cabbage, I feel I have never had cabbage before in my life. I decided to make cole slaw with it for my 4th of July dinner. As I cut it up, I sneaked a little bite. And then another. To my amazement, it was sweet and snappily crisp. I don't ever remember cabbage like it. Usually cabbage is a little rubbery and faintly stinky. Now I know how old it probably was, riding across the continent in trucks. How will I ever go back, now that I have had the real thing? Thanks for doing what you do. I hope, in my lifetime, we will go back to eating locally from farms like yours. One of the "silver linings" in the energy crisis and the waning age of fossils fuels, might be a return to local, organic farming.Lynn Barnett | IL United States
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 | I watched your documentary on TV Ontario, Ontario's public television network. I live in Northern Ontario and many young farmers here are going through similar obstacles. I am with the local food security network and we are presently supporting 4 CSA initiatives. We can learn a lot from you. We are having a movie showing this fall and I'm going to push for yours. Great job.Christian Howald | Canada
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 | John, Leslie, and Team - I'm a film graduate from the University of Utah. My wife is from Peru. My wife's family has just more than 100 acres near Motupe, Peru that we're going to try to get going this coming year. I believe all are children of God, and that God is the great farmer of the Universe, and author of creation. My view on your film is consistent with my view on life. I LOVED the music video by the way and the message that Leslie gave with "The Farmer John Song" ! I honestly haven't seen something that funny in long time - it was GREAT! God be with you! Jacen Brewer | Salt Lake City Utah United States
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 | god bless you | country United States
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 | Dear John, I have just had the pleasure of watching 'the real dirt...' and wanted to thank you for sharing your story. It resonated with me, as my ex partner is a little similar to yourself and faces some of the issues you did.. growing up in a farming family, unsure whether to stay on the farm or not...is it sustainable.. does he follow his interest outside farming?.. how does he reconnect to a community that treats him in a manner in which you were treated ( and may still well be)... and dealing with depression... Your film gave me a better understanding of why my ex stayed were he is.. and i only hope that the universe crosses his path with your film.. that way he will know he is not alone and that there is light out there... many thanks once again :-) kind regards, matthew matthew schiavello | Thornbury Victoria Australia
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 | How are you these days Farmer John? Well I hope. I just saw the documentary The Real Dirt On Farmer John and I really enjoyed it you are certainly a unique man. I appreciate that you have a vision of life that includes your passion for the land as well as your adoration for the arts. I was most impressed with your tenacity, when things didn't work out favorably you didn't quit you formulated a new plan and preceded in spite of past shortcomings. I am a musician shopping for representation so I hear: sorry, we're currently at full capacity and we can't help you without a recognized recommendation so often that I was considering removing those words completely from my vernacular. But I keep calling, writing, e-mailing and visiting anyway because the whole chore it part of the process. It's good to hear stories of people finding success without having to compromise themselves or their vision. Hopefully, someday I'll write you and tell you my success story. Until then best of luck in all avenues of life. Jonathan Randal | Dumfries Virginia United States
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 | So i had this dream last week - I think. Suddenly, someone I was talking to had "egg on their face" but it appeared like an egg stigmata from their ear to the corner of their mouth. (By the way, that means just the yolk in the egg stigmata dream. and stigmata is used as a reference to spontaneously appearing from within.) And there was another one about choosing some really good truffles over a friend somehow - but it is too vague now. I don't think it was a permanent exclusive decision... -Ruth | United States
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 | Oranginess is wonderful. Your voice is very special. You are lucky to have such talent. I have listened to that one song for over an hour today (I had to drive to San Diego, so I had a lot of time to listen). Oranginess is a great story. It sounds like you have a big heart, and it comes through in your voice. Jason B. | CA United States
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 | John's movie has been like therapy for us lately. It is so inspiring to see someone who is committed to farming and to themselves as a creative person despite the reaction of some old-timers in the community. | Fairhaven MA United States
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 | We will be saving John's "Glitter & Grease" and autobiography books, whenever they come out, for our son Massimo who is 3 and a half now. Maybe in 20 years he can show them to his therapist when he tries to understand what was up with his parents!! At least they will prove there are other creative people who believe in farming and being true to themselves!!!! -Kate L. | Fairhaven MA United States
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 | John, just wanted to thank you for the movie, The Dirt on Farmer John. It's a special movie, honest and sweet and it even has a happy ending. Thanks, and I wish you and all your farmers the very best in all you do. P.S. your Mom was really great -Jessica A. | United States
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 | My Husband & I live in Ohio so really can't join in, but I wanted to let you know we watched your movie recently. I thought it was pretty cool and your ideas & you are so down to earth, as we are. Anyway, just wanted to say hello from Ohio. Terry and John | Ohio United States
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 | This will be my second year, we share a box and I can't wait for the year to begin. You are all so great! marge howard | highland Park il United States
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 | I grew up in Roscoe and swore I would never come back to the mid-west to live because it was not progressive. I guess if I do I'll live in North Boone! I live on Whidbey Island off the coast of WA state where my children go to the Steiner School, Whidbey Island Waldorf School. We moved here for the school and have a small 5 acre family farm where we raise our own food. Cows, goats, sheep, chickens, pigs,turkeys and of course vegetables. Bravo to the work you are doing. We all need to start thinking about sustainability and you are a beautiful example. All my friends are watching this movie and its fun to say that I am from the same area. Best wishes on your continued work. Marybeth DickersonMarybeth Dickerson | Clinton WA United States
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 | It was Great! Very Emotional! How lucky you are to have so much of your personal family history documented on film-Wow! Hope you will go down in history as one of the great stewards of 21st century American farming. Thank You and Yours! p.s. In your movie, during the "troubled" times (when the local sheriff was sending his men out to see if they could bust you-- you should have played the music from "Alice's Restuarant" (when the cops were trying to charge him with everything..) Similar in a bizarre way :) | Vancouver WA United States
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 | Kia ora. Greetings from New Zealand. Just wondering how you folks are faring at this time of flooding. Our thoughts are with you. Alistair Munro Nelson NZAlistair Munro | New Zealand
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 | we loved it. we're going to tell all our friends and family. must see in the 21st century to survive. or make all the mistakes over and over, again. much love and kindest thoughts. slan.lenora teigland & michael kelly | san leandro ca United States
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 | Kia ora from New Zealand, We're dairy farmers in New Zealand, running 2 small farms by today's standards. We saw 'The Real Dirt on Farmer John' last night and both enjoyed it more than anything we've seen for ages. It was entertaining, educational, emotionally charged, at times sad but ultimately uplifting, - truly inspirational stuff. We have, in the last few months, plucked up the courage to change our fertilisers to organic ones and seeing this movie has increased our confidence in this decision and gives us more courage to make more changes. In a time where many small dairy farms in New Zealand are being amalgamated into bigger ones it is easy, as the 3rd and 4th generation of family on our land, to feel that our way of life is nearly a thing of the past, so it is uplifting to realise that there are other ways forward and that what we are trying is not so unusual. Also, as farmers are encouraged to adopt more and more high tech systems and approaches, one can be made to feel positvely backward for deciding to continue to farm in more traditonal ways, ie in our case an all grass sytem, rather than buying in feed from other areas, or even palm kernal from other pacific islands. On a personal level we grew up seeing our parents and grandparents not only run their farms, but also grow the meat, fruit, and vegetables that their families ate. We have continued to do this while our children grew up through the 1980's and 90's, at times feeling like dinosaurs as many of our friends acted as if these things were quaint hobbies rather than ways of living. I am now keen to get a copy of the DVD so I can share it with my family and friends. Thanks for being prepared to share your story John. It cannot have always been easy to bare yourself and share the sadder times. Your energy and enthusiasm are to be admired. Kaye & Ian.Kaye & Ian Bell | WAIMANA Bay of Plenty New Zealand
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 | I watched The Real Dirt on Farmer John last evening on TV Ontario and I don't mind telling you I cried for John's trials and triumphs on becoming the kind of farmer that modern man desperately needs. It was difficult to watch the old-timer lamenting the loss of good black soil beneath the concrete of subdivisions. We're killing the goose that lays the eggs. I know we need farmers like John and Angelic Organics all over America. | Peterborough Ontario Canada
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 | I don't know whether you can believe this, but between my last comment above and this one I received word that my dear mother-in-law passed away after a brief battle with cancer. This woman was a local politician and a maverick and first introduced me to the works of Rudolph Steiner and the Waldorf School. It truly is a small world isn't it? And we are all much more closely linked than we can imagine. I am a city boy but spent 3 years on a dairy farm when I was 10 to 13 years old. I may be one of the few people in this part of the country who still remembers shovelling cowshit off a sleigh in the middle of winter, pulled by a team of horses. It was hard cold work but heavenly!!! On that farm I saw birth, growth, and death. I learned to tell the weather by wind direction. I learned to keep machinery oiled and greased. Learned how to cut a tree and drop it where I wanted. Learned to care for the soil. Cut oats, wheat and barley with an old-fashion combine, "stuked" it, loaded it by hand on a wagon and eventually fed the thrasher. My kids are tired of my farm stories. I still get nostalgic when I pass a freshly manured field. It's one of the best smells in the world. My teenage kids think I'm crazy. Maybe I am. So here I am, forced into retirement at 55 because of diabetes and ill health...trying to become the artist I've wanted to be all my life but never explored. Johh, you are an inspiration. You are doing the work that absolutely must be done. Kindest regards and best wishes for your success. Thanks for letting me tell you about this. I know you of all people will understand. C. Osborn | Peterborough Ontario Canada
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 | -Just finished watching it- as recommended by my dearest friend~ -Completely inspiring, and timely, for me, at least...James Clark | Chicago Illinois United States
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 | Enjoyed your movie, especially all the footage your mom filmed. Sincerely, Lisa Schoenrock Lisa Schoenrock | Galena Illinois United States
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 | I grew up in an exurb of Chicago so I can relate to the environment depicted in the film. I went to high school with sons and daughters of farmers, some of whom became farmers themselves. I think the underlying issue that John Peterson was tussling with in the film was the meaning of life for himself, outwardly a sturdy descendant of hardy Scandinavian stock but inwardly a person quite different from most of his neighbors, something that can prove to be a big problem in a small rural midwestern town. I think the fact that John kind of fell into organic farming which is now one of the hottest things going was a kind of miracle. He was ready for it in some ways by virtue of his upbringing and love for brutally long hours and hard work but, despite all the past problems and aimless searching, I found the film to be optimistic about the future and I found myself pulling for old John, quirky as he might be. He seems to have found a way to blend the stolid farming ways of his folks with his creative leanings and talent. Sounds like a life.
George Hawley | Sarasota FL United States
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 | Wow, so much to say... I LOVED your movie.. I cried, I laughed, I was moved. I'm from Indiana and now live in Los Angeles.. I left Indiana when I was 20. Our families are so similar... I think you are such an amazing person with a beautiful soul. I just wanted to say that you such an inspiration. Keep doing what you're doing, but always follow your heart. Ben | Los Angeles (By way of Indiana) CA (IN) United States
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 | Dr. Farmer John, I grew up in Canada and had a career in agriculture of sorts - in my 20s I worked in marketing for an ag. chemical company until I had spent long enough there to have an attack of conscience and quit. I later spent 10 years in rural Saskatchewan where I watched the farming industry in western Canada become corporatized, threatening many ancestral family farms. In 2004, I moved to the Big Island of Hawaii where I worktraded on an organic farm and learned about Masonobu Fukuoka's Natural Farming philosophy. I lived off-grid in a rainforest and learned how to grow food organically. It was there I met my boyfriend, Farmer Dan. Farmer Dan and I spent 2 yrs in monsoon rains in rubber boots, in all the struggles and joys that come along with "working the land". Farmer Dan and I watched your movie tonight, and I wanted to reach out and tell you how moved I was by your documentary, how I identified with many of the storylines you told, and enjoyed your interweaving of theater and farming. A graduate of theatre in college, I too ended up in the theatrics of farming! Thank you so much for sharing your story in such an intimate way. We understood well the struggles that come from attempting to farm as an artist in a community that does not understand your vision. I appreciated your courage and felt that you truly are an angel, fulfilling a mission the older generations just couldn't see. Your mother was a dear - I just loved this window into your life. Thank you! What a gift! aloha Muddy Boots in HawaiiJill Morgyn | Fairfield CA United States
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 | John, I didn't kill anyone down here, either. But I took over Pop's hobby farm here in Pike County 5 years ago...and they've been trying to run me off ever since. I've been robbed, threatened, harassed...for the crime of trying to turn the place organic, and refusing to grow corn and soybeans. For speaking up. And well, maybe I shouldn't have threatened that crop duster. VEGETABLES! Imagine that! Damned witch- thats what they say I am. I got tears running down my face as I write this, because who knows what today will bring? And because YOU exist..you GET it..and you survived. You are my new role model. Bless you, John. Finding you may have saved my life. Cherie-Marie down here in Pike County. Cherie-Marie St.Martin | Hull Illinois United States
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 | Dear John, I saw Real Dirt today on our TV and was touched to tears. I live on a communal farm in Israel which like yours collapsed in the 80s as did many others in the country . some survived with the industries they developed and then later managed to rebuild the agriculture back with modern farming methods, but many never got back on their feet again. Our farm was one of the latter. we are situated in the hills near Jerusalem and all of the 65 families now rely on jobs in the city (like myself) of on social security because of their age. The best years of my life were when I was farming and I do miss it so. I admire your strength and tenacity and love for the land. May you go from strength to strength. E Alberternest albert | Israel
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 | John, Listened to Bob Edwards this week and ran across the interview. Can't wait to find the movie. I grew peaches (tree ripe with about 4 days of shelf life)here in East Tennessee for 13 years and had to "just say no to farming". 96 acres worth when I was in my 20's and 30's. Mapping soils for a living now. Told my wife I'd farm again when food costs what it's worth. I'm afraid it's about to happen. Loved the interview. I'm inspired again. Mike Searcy Dandridge, Tennessee
Michael Searcy | Dandridge TN United States
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 | 1. I know that while John found these methods breathed life into his farm, he is not alone. I interview wineries in Napa California all the time and I know many folks there practice bio-dynamic farming, especially, the stirring and counter stirring of the organic fertilizer. Some even have special egg shaped containers to do this. It seems we as a species are realizing the earth is our mother and she could die if we are not careful. 2. I just bought old farmland and I'm planning a small farm for my family and extended family. I want to be as organic as possible. I was given your movie as inspiration AND IT WORKED!Andrew Glazier | Livermore Ca United States
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 | Dear Mr. Peterson, Yesterday I saw on Swiss TV the interesting documentary about your wonderful farm. I congratulate you on your tenaticy and perseverance. I' d never been to USA, I have Swiss relatives in Gilroy since 1930. My mother comes from Spain (Cuenca). I have to visit someday your beautiful country. Greetings from Lugano | Lugano Switzerland
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 | Thank you for following your heart and soul. Thank you for letting your self receive the lessons and choosing to become ttender and well from the journey. How touching. Please receive (if and only if this appeals) free tickets to the Ani-miracles seminars in California for you and all your friends. Info is at www.animiracles.com. Thanks, Dr. Laurie MooreLaurie Moore | Santa Cruz CA United States
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 | What a beautiful story of the ebbs and flows of life. What a beautiful story of connection to the soil and to land. Your story had completely shifted my perspective on that. I come from MidWestern farming people and seeing your home movies they could have been from my family. i shared your movie with my AP Environmental Science students. They got it. You opened their eyes to tolerance, play, hard work, and love of the Earth. Thank you for the courage to share yourself so completely. Thank you for the courage to continue in the face of such adversity. Your story is so compelling, real, inspiring, and profound. I love you! Joan Stevens | Los Angeles CA United States
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 | I would love to see the real impact of peoples intolerance and story telling on others. I would love to have the opportunity to reflect on how my own actions in that regard have hurt others. I want to see a model for how to clean up the messes I've made in the past and the great healing that can occur as a result. Joan Stevens | Los Angeles CA United States
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 | All i saw was the trailer on your site and it brought me to tears. I've bummed around the world for a decade before moving back home to a small hillside glacial morain farm in western NY with a wife who was a rural rice farmer from Cambodia and a year old son. Six years later we do a small CSA called Gong Garden CSA with only 35 shareholders. We're interested in learning Biodynamic methods, i found a cows horn the other day from a farm up the hill and it hit me, yes Biodynamics is ouir next step. I'm a bit of a farminig anomalty here as my wife is Cambodian, i'm 22 years her senior, from here, i wear Amish overalls and Tibetan shirts. Our farm is hand built, we're wheelbarrow farmers. We live in a small 440 sq. foot house, now with a daughter added, and we practice Buddhism. You know what it's like to be "outstanding in your field". Thanks for sharing your story. We look forward to finding the whole movie to watch, soon as we find it and go to a friends house with tv!Pete Calanni | Arkwright NY United States
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 | hallo john and all farming people in angelics farm, my name is peter, yesterday we saw the movie in our biodynamic farm here in obergrashof-dachau/germany. we were ''uuuhu'' we have a special question regarding the small,wonderful, red weeding and cultivation tractors at the end of the movie. is it possible to buy such old tractors in the middle west? for us they seem to be ideal for most of our cultivation-works in the vegetable we grow. we are cultivating about 50 ha and about 40 different cultures and are also engaged in the production of biodynamic seeds! ciao peter peter stinshoff | dachau bavaria Germany
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 | We are enjoying the heck out of your cookbook. We love reading it, we love cooking from it. It's become one of our top three favorites (along with Nourishing Traditions, and The Joy). peace Mark
Mark Silver | Portland OR United States
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 | I saw your film today for the first time. We live on 32 acres of what was a farm ages ago and I am now inspired. Thank you!Roger John Samuels | Beaumont PA United States
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 | Farmer John, You are the greatest!! I recently saw the film about your struggle to achieve your vision and I still shake my head in disgust at how a few small minded people in your average small town can turn ones world upside down! You were just cut from a different cloth and dared to deviate from the norm. This alone has brought many complete ruin and any lesser man would have probably just given up. That IS what makes this country so damn great is individuals just like you following their visions all the way to fruition. One question though John. What did you do with the bodies? You know, from the cult!!! Ha Ha Ha!!! After I got over my initial anger I was almost in tears with laughter as the utter stupidity of the question/statement. In closing, please keep up the fight! You are so desperately needed in this world and I hope to one day come through there and meet you. Man if I could just get decent produce here in Washington, D.C.! Most is so tasteless and bland. I long for a great tomato sandwich of my mis-spent youth! Thanks again! Very Sincerely,Glenn Ralph | Washington, DC United States
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 | Rock on everyone at Angelic Organics! I'm so proud of all you manage to accomplish. All my best to you! Marimonica Murray | Crete IL United States
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 | Hey John, My family has a farm in northern new jersey. We have been around since 1914. In the early 50s we had to sell part of out farm due too eminent domain. The garden state parkway now runs through where part of our farm used to be. Over the years my grand parents and parents have molded this small farm into a well established garden center and nursery. We are still on 5 active acres, two of which we use to grow organic vegetables and bouquet flowers. I just wanted to say i loved your film and it brought tears to my eyes. Being around for so long i have heard many stories about how my entire town used to be farms, and now we are the only one left. We are just 15min from the lincoln tunnel and NYC so you can imagine what the rest of the area looks like. After seeing your film and doing some research i am staring my 1st annual food bank. Just wanted to say keep up the good work.
Farmer WIll | NY NJ United States
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 | Way to go! I tell everyone I know about the film. It's such an inspiration. When our weather warms up I'm going to get my husband to wear his kilt on the tractor. Won't be as hot as a boa, but it's a start. Love you guys, Dale of Simple Produce Farm | Stanwood WA United States
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 | thanks, John! You RULE! RULE! -David | United States
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 | Farmer John, the movie, the movement all makes me so hopeful. I cheer for y'all and hope to be a summer intern one day. Big love to y'all! LeAnne Gault | Greenwood MS United States
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 | You had to love doing it all ! Dub Matson | Sebastopol Ca. United States
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 | I have been a Chicago shareholder since the farm's earliest shareholder days, at first sharing a box with a co-worker (who had been diagnosed with breast cancer and had been looking for local organic foods (she's now a survivor)) and then having my own box each year I am in town (only missed a couple and I sorely did miss my goodies). Since having a box alone I have acquired a dehydrator, a juicer, a crockpot and a food saver vacuum sealer. :) -Charlene | IL United States
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 | Wow--this movie has changed our world. It helped us make a difficult decision. My husband and I are thinking about moving back to the Midwest from California. Watching Farmer John made us realize that sustainable farming is something we want to support and possibly get involved with once we make the treck across the Great Plains. We also came to the realization that feather boas are popular in corn fields--now that's something I can relate to. Great film! Great guy. We love you Farmer John. | Brisbane CA United States
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 | Dear John, My 83-year old mother & I just watched your film (my second time, her first). We are both organic gardeners. Her only question once the credits start rolling was well, did he ever get married to that girl? Well? Did he? thanks,Sylvia & Cyrilla | OR United States
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 | Just saw your documentary for the first time this weekend and I am so inspired I am getting involved in a local CSA in my own community. What an awesome story, what an amazing person John is!!! His story has given me so much hope for our future! What honesty, humility and courage. Thank you! Valerie | United States
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 | There are no words that can adequately express how deeply my heart was moved in viewing your documentary! It is the best documentary I have ever seen! I admit that I'm absolutely prejudiced towards Biodynamics, the counter culture, and motherly love, etc. however, I believe you have created an unparalleled contemporary presentation of a farmer's rite of passage that America needs to hear! I would like to find a way to support that vision! Chef Jem | CA United States
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 | I never thought farming could be so interesting! You really bring a creative side to it.
Dan | Lake Charles IL United States
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 | I also lost my mother to cancer, long and painful she suffered, I am glad you pushed on. I am running a summer camp for underpriviledged kids and would like to get them into Bio-dynamics and organic gardening as a follow-up. We cannot garden during the summer because of the work involved in the camp. My friend ran the barn peonia farm in New harmony, Ind. they grew using bio-dynamic principles.You are doing a great thing John Keep -up the effort, my father and grand father lost their farms in '86. Scott | United States
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 | i was so moved by the real dirt on farmer john, and on so many levels, first the simple human, daily yearly story that comprises a life, how he navigates his family and friends and the necessity of making a living. how he had to deal with the misconceptions of his neighbors, how he would make the escapes to mexico. i related to ALL this. then the triumph of being part of the organic birth of a meaningful community, based on growing and supporting the growing of real food. the whole film just inspired me. it is the kind of film i would like to watch with people i care about and love, and would like to loan to anyone who i think would enjoy and be inspired by it. thanks, i love what you're doing. Julia | United States
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 | Do you still have a service to other CSA farmers where you send out updates and recipe idea we can use in our own boxes? I have a small market farm in SW Wisconsin and think Farmer John rocks! Thanks for all the support your work gives the rest of us out here. | Blanchardville WI United States
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 | My daughter goes to Beloit College. On a trip up there in 2006, I heard review for Farmer John documentary on NPR Madison. I just spent a week in Beloit and we drove for 3 hours trying to find your farm. We had not planned going there, so had to go to Beloit library for address. We even consulted the Sheriff's office in Caledonia. You are the world's best kept secret in the Rockford-Beloit area! My father sold IH farmall tractors and we grew up with fresh organic everything in farm country south of Niagara Falls. I relive my child hood every time I visit Illinois and E. Wisconsin. I commend you on what you are doing and someday, before my daughter graduates, I hope to visit your farm. Linda | Tuscon AZ United States
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 | Mr. John Peterson,Thank you for refreshing all the loving memories of my mother & her love & understanding. Your story inspired me to consider you a friend I would proudly acknowledge. Thank you for being you ! Dub Matson | Sebastopol Ca. United States
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 | 70 and still trying to have a successful summer garden. I'll try harder after seeing your struggles.Thank you for making me realize all of your progress from hard work and determination. Dub Matson | Sebastopol Ca. United States
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 | Years ago, a friend and I visited Angelic Organics one damp overnight and shared hot cocoa and garbage bags for warmth around a bonfire waiting for the clouds to clear so we could see a once in a lifetime star shower. -Charlene
| IL United States
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 | Today I saw your film on TVO I cried for myself My eyes have been opened to the state of our world which i have done nothing to stop Your film has started me n a journey to participate in the healing of my childrens world Thank You Jason
Jason Gillooly | Dorchester Ontario Canada
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 | I saw the story on TVO [TV Ontario] a public broadcasting station from Toronto. What came up for me watching the program? Almost all of the above feelings, almost all of the above experiences one way or another!! I am amazed at what you have been through and never actually given up, what you have been through in your life so far..how people can take any good person's individual life and cause so much trouble and predujice! I have been through the loss of my husband in 2005, and have just been able to look forward with a sense of "the need for adventure, the possibilities that are still in store". I was interested in the fact that you used Steiner's biodynamic model and that it helped you so much. My children and grandchildren live outside Chicago, and my grandkids go to the Waldorf school outside of Chicago. They have been on trips with their school for a week long stay at a working farm in Wisconsin, so I was doubly interested in YOUR farm. Sure would like to visit...maybe stay and work awhile over the next few months. My little dog and I make lots of trips to Illinois! Linda Longman | Hamilton [Province] Ontario Canada
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 | Only really saw your video about the bees..you guys certainly made a big point in a big buzzy way! Linda Longman | Hamilton [Province] Ontario Canada
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 | Although Farmer John is rightfully the star of his own movie, you are the star of the bug song. I would argue that you are the bumblebee, and he is the other bumblebee. I still watch that video every couple days and love it. Jason Blasdell | United States
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 | i just love your childrens songs on the cd you produced. i need to order one as we do a lot of birthday parties and kids' tours on my farm. we love u guys! you're wild farmers and that's cool. Darlene | United States
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 | Your movie touched me so much to write to you and say "Thank You". I'm sorry for what you had to go thru, but you got to an amazing place now.I love your mom. What a spit fire. kind and loving she is. And I find fascinating how you implemented "biodynamics" on your farming. You should come to Brasil and help us out. Adriana Ferraz | Sao Paulo SP Brazil
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 | Wonderful voice. Great words. Adriana Ferraz | Sao Paulo SP Brazil
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 | Today, I saw this film for the first time at the San Francisco Public Libraryi's Environmental Film Festival. I am so happy that I saw this film - I remember when it was listed among the green films several yrs ago in San Francisco at the world environment day festivities. This film helps lift despair against overwhelming odds, hope when there seems to be none and triumph of the human spirit and what one person can do. It speaks to everything that is dear to me, to truth, to our American Spirit, to trying and going on when all seems doomed; how to combat depression- how to keep going. I am very moved by it. My family lives in a landmark Dutch farm house in Bklyn, NY - we spend much time in NJ which will soon be the first "built out" state in the US. No more room left - once the "Garden State". The message of the CSA's and the effort to preserve what remains of the small farm is so very critical - and needed for this country. I just hope this message spreads like wild fire, to help inspire so many others who want to preserve small farms in America, provide nutricious food and preserve this quickly vanishing way of life, before it is too late. God Bless you Farmer John. | San Francisco CA United States
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 | WOW WOW WOW WOW WOW WOW WOWO WOWOW WOW WOW WOW WOW WOW WOOW WOWOW WOWOWO...... Just went to see film. We all cried - very moved.It will inspire people like us to get together and get farming biodynamically any old how!Seems we'll all have to team up pretty soon anyway - out of necessity. I want to be a farmer!!! I want to be close to the land and lifes natural cycles. I want out of my job that feeds tires me out and keeps me away from being on the land - feeding it and nourishing it and enjoying it's trials and tribulations. JOHN, YOUR FARM AND YOUR LIFE AND YOUR MUM - ARE TRULY DIVINE. THANKYOU. Richard and Natasha Gall | RD1 LYTTELTON HARBOUR New Zealand
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 | Dear John I showed your movie to our film society last night and I just wanted to say - thank you! I've been showing movies here for ten years and this is the best we've had for a long time - I was by turns amused, saddened, moved and inspired, so much so that I've just ordered a copy to show to my friends who didn't see it last night. All best wishes for the future.
Nick Bucknall | Bishop's Castle United Kingdom
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 | I just had the sheer pleasure of having a copy of "The Real Dirt" delivered to me by netflix and WOW! It was really so amazing! What an incredibly moving movie it was. I'm sad it took me so long to see it. I knew it was going to be good but I was deeply touched by the story. I want to go out and join a CSA right now! Get my hands in the dirt. Aaahhh...I also loved the way you did the photo gallery. Very sweet, the best I've seen in a movie's special features. I just had to write you and tell you how much I loved it. Thinking of you and wishing you well out there in that beautiful New Zealand land. many blessings!Crystal Saint Onge | United States
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 | Dear Farmer John, My name is Jessica, i am a 12th grader at Summerfield Waldorf School and farm in California. A close mentor of mine lent me your movie yesterday. I must tell you that i was deeply touched by that movie, its probably one of the first movies in a long time where i have cried. You shared a lot of yourself to the world in that film and i respect you for it. For my senior thesis i am studying the relationship between the farmer and nature, the importance of the farmer, the responsibility and also the gift of being a farmer. I found in myself a love of nature and of farming after joining the waldorf system in my junior year. This love has led me to studying biodynamics and your movie supported all that i am working toward. I just wanted to write to you telling you how much i appreciated seeing your journey as a farmer, your transformations from conventional to biodynamics! It was amazing and i think that i will use clips of your film in my presentation on the farmer, and nature. thank youJessica J | CA United States
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 | After seeing Farmer John's documentary (a fantastic film, full of so much meaning and relevance to us all), I decided to order your cookbook! Farmer John's Cookbook is even more incredible than the documentary, if that's possible..I've already tried two of the recipes and they were both beyond belief almost, in terms of flavor and originality! This is just simply an extraordinary cookbook, definitely an "essential" one, and as far as I'm concerned it is the #1 cookbook of all time, in terms of its offering superior ways of preparing and cooking (and understanding) fresh vegetable dishes....and its beautiful use of the perfect blend of herbs and spices, for each recipe...also awesome! Just amazing...Dave Marks |
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 | Lizzy and I cried our way through it, as it was such a great story. Had to wonder how such a prolifically perfect story was all caught on tape over his years, but decided that it's just the magic of movie making and putting together tiny pieces of footage. Anyway, it was a great story and inspiring, and there is a couple in Spokane who is thinking of trying to start one up (CSA) and I'm on their email list now. | ID United States
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 | I just watched Real Dirt tonight. WOW! I was very moved on all aspects you touched on. My husband and i both cheered alound when you got to the part about starting an organic farm! We just adopted an organic diet in May 2007 (at age 55 for me). I am a diabetic. Because my body was no longer gettting all the poisons and junk in my food supply, I have been able to reduce the amount of diabetic precsription medicines by half. (I was on 5 Rx's) I no longer need the blood pressure med or the pill for my heart rate. My allergies are also much better, and only occaionally need one of the 5 allergy Rx's I was taking daily. THANK GOD FOR PEOPLE LIKE YOU WHO ARE MAKING A HUGE DIFFERENCE IN MY LIFE!!! I am also a "metafizzler" and a musician. I teach private voice lessons and am well aquainted with artists and performers and just plain wierd folk (by other people's standards) that seem normal to me, since I AM ONE. My heart went out to you both at the burning of the log cabin and the art work. I can only imagine if my piano and music library were to come to some demise. I slaute you in your vision and the broad humanitarian scope of your endeavor!!! You are a fantastic human being, and after watching your incrediblly well written and superbly told story, I feel like you are my family. So, like it or not, in the middle of Oklahoma you have been adopted by Cousin Karen Karen Smith-Pearson | Oklahoma City OK United States
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 | This movie was so unreal. I went crazy over it and am now forwarding it to everyone I know. I am dying to know how many books, dvds you have sold, etc. Not because I am nosy, but because I am cheering you on and want you to prosper and spread your infectious energy. John, you are a great man and wish nothing but success and health for you and everyone working on your beautiful farm. | NY United States
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 | Just watched your film and it really moved me. I could watch a whole movie just on your mom. What a wonderful person. Your mom reminded me of my grandmother and great aunts. What will our world be when this generation of hard working people are all gone? They have so much to teach us. Loved your film and good luck with the farm. Angie Hughes | Quilcene Washington United States
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 | This is a wonderful movie. --And the music videos are too great. We want more!!! I would like to buy a copy of the DVD to lend to our CSA customers. Thanks for persevering with getting the word out. Best wishes to your farm community! Scott Wenger | Ferndale WA United States
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 | Excellent Film! Your struggle gave birth to a very important movement to heal our earth & ourselves! Sending thanks,gratitude& love, Mary/Chicagomary jadernak | chicago illinois United States
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 | Thanks for the movie! I adored it! The surviving spirit of the American farm family shines through. Lucy Peden | Troy KS United States
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 | I was able to rent The Real Dirt from Netflix in which Farmer John somewhat channels George Bailey, although George didn't have to suffer through slander and damning ignorance. I'm also hoping Farmer John has succession planning already in place so his heart is lightened and his burdens eased. | Chicago Illinois United States
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 | I just saw your movie, which moved me to respond (and I usually never respond!) Among the many things that stood out for me was the destructiveness of your neighbors' own fears (projections) onto you, which had such isolating, emotionally devastating consequences for you, and yet has apparently not really been acknowledged and taken back by those that partook in it. I teach juniors and seniors business students about the power of our own projections onto others in a university class called "Individual and Group Behavior in Organizations". I am thinking of utilizing your experience as a powerful real life example of the terrible consequences when we don't have skills to manage differences in effective ways (by exploring and integrating them). Thus your life/movie might make quite an impact in a way that you may never even have thought of! (On top of the other real difference you make as a farmer and artist on so many lives)... Wishing you much continued success in all your endeavors! (Now you got me interested in your book "I didn't kill anyone up here!")... Verena Murphy |
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 | I bought your video The real Dirt on Farmer John..I teach an agriculture class, art and an ex diaryfarmer wife. I am still the wife. My family found the video very valuable to family memories, struggles and dreams. My husband seeems close to the same era of yourself. He grew up on the sheltered farm, off to college came back looking different. When my son 16 was watching the DVD he said that's like Daddy. It has taken years and years to prove to the community that he is not a screwup. The struggles of our family farm still continue, but after watching the film it just shows creativity and imagination may someday turn things around. The last scene in the film looked just like the landscape from the barn on our farm in Virginia! | Dewitt Va United States
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 | Dear John and others involved, Yesterday and today I saw the film on DVD. I ame very impressed, also of your dear father and mother, John. Your mother started filming already in 1950! So lucky you have all these films saved. I ame not coming the U.S.A. c.a. is too far away for me. But I ame very trilled and full of respect for those "alternative" Americans like you. Make the U.S.A. more beautiful! (Like an insect that stings) All the best from fryslan and www.stoutenburg.nl (also summary in English), where I work. Zwanny Wouda I would like to come but I do not dare so far away. And I ame to old? (55)Zwanny wouda | Leeuwarden Friesland Netherlands
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 | Dear John and friends- My husband Skot and I rented "The Real Dirt" via netflix. I found it to be insipiring and refreshing. I grew up in Michigan, near many Amish farms and have a great respect for the farmers' way of life and skills of perserverence. Thank you for using this medium to work out your personal mysteries and life's challenges. We loved this documentary and its message! Keep up the good work! I am soon to be a teacher with summers off- maybe we will visit on our way north! We love you, Jamie and Skot Phrea P.S. Come visit us on your next trip to Mexico. We'd love to have you at Kerrville Folk Festival, also. Check out their website-its almost that time of year! jamie green | ingram texas United States
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 | Hey John, I don't know if you remember me. Just wanted to say 'hello' and let you know that I was really touched by your film. I had no idea that you were going through such issues when we were friends in the early '80s. Mary Beloit College Class of 85Mary Chambers | Genoa City WI United States
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 | In the past month, I have seen two stellar documentaries: "Super Size Me," about the detriments of eating fast food, and "The Real Dirt on Farmer John." Both movies have made a tremendous impact for different reasons, but the one common thread is the benefit of eating fresh, wholesome, organic food. John is an amazing guy. I see no end to his endeavors, however outlandish they may seem. He is an inspiration to city and country folk alike in that he has the will and the drive to make his dreams come true. What an amazing movie, one that I will not forget for a long, long time. How I would love the public schools to be able to offer fresh fruits and vegetables to schoolchildren on a daily basis, instead of processed food, loaded with sugar and fat.I just wish his farm was closer to my house! | Carmel IN
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 | Dear Farmer John-I was so inspired by your tale that I brought the copy I rented from the local store to my boss, an organic farmer of thirty years in Alachua, Florida, the very next morning. He was considering bankruptcy himself this year due to this spring's late and heavy freezing having suffered our crops badly. He too is/WAS, in lack of faith and inspiration... only the eagerly awaiting customers keep him going sometimes, and the workers... The problem is that sometimes things don't go as planned on the farm, for a myriad of reasons, as you well know, and we suffer a momentary financial low. Most of us keep going there to work even when he can't pay us for a few weeks because we know he will when the crop comes in and, in the meantime, we are well fed by the lush organic vegetables. This is my sixth year on the farm, although I am now only part-time. We are a small eight acre farm named Spring Song Organics, just outside Alachua Florida, near Gainesville, which is one-third of our market. The rest of our produce travels the day after it is picked to local stores, restaurants and farmers market in Tallahassee and St.Augustine. Our small farm supports four to five families yearly, some temporary help, and the farmer, Jeff Baptist and his family because we can grow something all year round. Your film has so inspired this farmer that he asked me the next day to look into turning us into a CSA farm to help get us started. I am beginning to research the concept of CSA- Thanks for making your beautiful, beautiful film and inspiring us organic farmers down here in Florida! I think we have to buy a copy of it because the one I rented hasn't made it around the whole crew and it's already due back at the store! Marcelina Michel-Trapaga | Alachua Florida United States
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 | Didn't want to watch film, glad I did. Lots of roller coaster memories from my farm youth. When my Dad sold the farm it was the hardest thing for me to see and feel what he was going through. Seeing this helped to heal a part of my sadness and helplessness. My wife and I are vegetarians and she insists on ONLY organic, not an easy thing to do in Hawaii. Your community approach to farming came too late for some, but I pray not for the planet. I would love if you had available a t-shirt "know your food, know your farmer", I know you wore one in the film. My thanks and blessings for what you have done and continue to do. Aloha, Robb and AlyssaRobert Drown | Honolulu HI United States
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 | I just watched your film and I loved it. I'm glad you made the film, and I think it's great that you had so much footage from your childhood to add into it. | United States
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 | I love the bug song. It's quite different to just come out and admit that you, as the bug, would have killed anyway, had you not been killed. It keeps anybody from being an innocent victim, and makes it a more interesting tragedy. Then again, there was the bug karma thing about the pesticides, so maybe the farmer would have had it coming. :) | United States
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 | The movie, The Real Dirt on Farmer John, will become a classic. I watched it. I cried. I laughed. I mourned. I celebrated. I cried again. I smiled many times, with tears streaming down my face. Thank you for sharing your story. I expect to watch it many more times. The Family at Pheasant Fields Farm | Silverdale WA United States
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 | Wow...I had no idea of the emotional power and scope of THE REAL DIRT ON FARMER JOHN ...it really knocks u for a loop. What an outstanding slice of life and Americana!! I was born in the Chicago area and it was nice to see that connection. All that amazing footage from the early years by Anna and John were saved for this amazing work of posterity! Two good elements for any documentary are laughs and tears ... and your film has plenty of both! No wonder all the awards! I hope more farms like Angelic are popping up all over....I trust that is a trend?Joe Vecchio, Home Intl | United States
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 | Try this: Play Lesley's songs to your older offspring on a "captured audience" road trip or on the way to school in order to stimulate lively discussions about life, death, and pesticides [The Bug Song], creating and transforming treasured memories [Purple Maple Tree] and moving on after relationships change [the River Song]. You might have to be as creative, whimsical, and brave as Lesley to entice discussions about these important and serious subjects. Wendy B | Houston Texas United States
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 | Dear John I happened to watch the film today. I am not a farmer, not even close, but your story goes much more further and deeper. I am about your age, experiencing a long period a lack of interest about life because of my failure in business (I am a Graphic Designer) and after watching the movie-your optimistic point-of-view after what you have been through, I am inspired, and have urge to get up and start again. Thank you! Eitan HarelEitan Harel | Ramat Gan Israel
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 | An acquaintance just told me about your movie and I watched the trailer and the clips for "greenies". I can't WAIT to see the movie! My grandfather was a coal miner who always managed to grow a beautiful backyard veggie and flower garden, no matter how harsh the climate or how rocky and barren the soil. Of course, he didn't use chemicals. I have fond memories of growing up playing/working in his garden and in the one he planted in OUR backyard. I've had my own garden since my kids were tiny, and THEY grew up sitting in the dirt with me, pulling weeds and planting seeds and marveling over the miraculous food we grew. My son inherited my grandfather's passion for growing. Nine years ago, after a near-fatal bicycle/auto crash, he used a small cash settlement to buy five acres of land and started working the soil before he had even healed from his injuries. He now has a successful organic farm and CSA and continues to pour his heart and soil into his work. He has changed the hearts of everyone in our family by his inspirational labor of love. We all tell his story to anyone who will listen. So, finding this movie and watching the trailers was just a gift. It makes me so happy that you are able to deliver your story (and philosophies) to the world through the film media. And I just wanted to congratulate you and thank you for what you've done. Farmer James' mom, SusanSusan Fulsome | United States
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 | ...my dream is a United States - and World- that is food- sovereign. Towards that end I will renew my Angelic CSA box for the Chicago cousins today! thanks, David in San Francisco
| CA United States
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 | I watched TRDoFJ for the third time last night and finally made it here to say hello. I grew up in Nebraska in the 60s and 70s and went to college in the Chicago area in early 80s. I have seen the decline of the family farm and stood by handwringing. The line that sums it up best for me was the older farmer talking about his gall bladder surgery and how he hated to see so much concrete being poured into the good dirt like so many scars. Brings me to tears every time. It takes a brave person to go through all that and still rise to the challenge of wanting to stay and plant again. this is the kind of transformational magic we need in the midwest, not corn ethanol. Claire Green | Santa Rosa CA United States
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 | Just saw your documentary for the first time this weekend and I am so inspired I am getting involved in a local CSA in my own community. What an awesome story, what an amazing person John is!!! His story has given me so much hope for our future! What honesty, humility and courage. Thank you! | United States
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 | Your cookbook has a secret life of it's own. It arrives cleverly disguised as modest, quiet, and shy but when night falls, it dons different costumes to cook up bedside fun! Wendy B | United States
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 | The Farm's film, website, and cookbook [I just finished reading it last night] opened reflections on many levels in many realms of my life. With a Deep Bow of Gratitude, Wendy B | United States
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 | I just had the sheer pleasure of having a copy of "The Real Dirt" delivered to me by netflix and WOW! It was really so amazing! What an incredibly moving movie it was. I'm sad it took me so long to see it. I knew it was going to be good but I was deeply touched by the story. I want to go out and join a CSA right now! Get my hands in the dirt. Aaahhh... I also loved the way you did the photo gallery. Very sweet, the best I've seen in a movie's special features. I just had to write you and tell you how much I loved it.Crystal Saint Onge | United States
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 | Dear John Peterson, After waiting too many months, got a copy of the REAL DIRT. Thank you Thank you Thank you. As the absentee (with tears) owner of a 120 acre Farm built by my great grandfather (and I'm 64) near Hope and Newbern and Columbus Indiana. How Beautiful. I write to you. As someone who reads Rudolf Steiner's books and lectures (light and patience in confusion) follows the Kimberton Farm Calendar, tried teaching children by Dr Steiner's principles, and is scared to read stuff about farming (too much longing - too hard) but Gardens some, I connect. How amazing that our Family Farm still survives: the house,the barn, the sheds, old implements and tools from my great grandfather and my grandfather. My Father did Aerospace and Electronics instead of farming with asthma, built weapons, computers, radar, research. I stayed with Grandma and Grandpa when I could, and after they died kept on learning, sorting, visiting, coming out from under the black sheep. Our Woods are still quiet by the Creek. You have gone on through and on ahead. Radiant. Thank you Thank you Thank you. Love,Lucy O'Neal | Eugene OR United States
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 | Loved "Real Dirt"! Grew up on a dairy farm in MN. Dad sold the farm after developing Parkinson--I can relate to you somewhat. . . My husband & I live on 80 acres in Northern MN, garden and have some farmed. Your movie really hit home with me. = I thought your Mom was so sweet--she reminds me of my own hard-working (still!) Mom of 84 yrs. old. Jane Mattila |
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 | Farmer John, I just wanted to say hello, I saw the Real Dirt on Farmer John last night and it prompted me to look you up online. Im gonna spend some time perusing, but wanted to send you some love. I really enjoyed watching your story. That Sheriff or whoever he was was a fricken idiot! I applaud your efforts and your vision and just wanted to say thank you for sharing your story. It is fascinating. I have friends that have a goat farm in Holbrook Arizona a few hours from where I live in Phoenix. I intend to show them your movie, they are fascinating people as well and they would really benefit from a csa type idea. All of the work they do is just too much for 2 people in their 60's. I love the community idea. I wish they would try something like that. It would be a win win. Again, thank you so much for sharing your story. Peace and love from my family to yours, Cliff and John and our 2 great danes Argus and DaisyCliff & John | United States
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 | Dear John, I just watched your documentary and loved it. What a wonderful contribution to society your story is. I am looking to find a CSA farm near my home. Thank you, again. PS. What a beautiful, loving woman your mother was. How blessed you are to have had a woman like that in your life.June Patch | United States
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 | My grandmother died recently, after a couple of months of lingering ill health. I was with her in hospice to help midwife her crossing -- and it is a crossing, I saw for myself. In any case, what I wanted to relay is that she was craving watermelon and my parents got one downstate and brought her some, but it was awful, and all she could tell me on the phone was how much she wanted watermelon. So I brought part of the orange one that Angelic Organics provided, and she was so happy -- it gave her huge joy and relief to have this cravin |