It Does A Body Good.

Hey. How ya doin? How's your summer? It's been awhile. I hope you've all been eating well and enjoying life. I've been busy, but that's a lousy excuse for not blogging. Let's see if I can catch up.

So, I've been promoting local purchasing and farm to table initiatives at work. We have gotten a new school account, and I managed to convince our VP of purchasing that it was possible to buy local and not have it affect our bottom line too much. The new school is right on the Hudson River, near NYC. That gives us a pretty good range to consider as regional/local. We had the opportunity to do some farm visits and learn about the small farms that are still in operation in the Hudson River Valley and out on Long Island. It was an amazing trip, and I wanted to share a little of what we got to experience with you all today.

First, there is Hudson Valley Fresh, a dairy cooperative dedicated to preserving the farming heritage of the area. They support sustainable farming, the preservation of over 5000 acres, and provide a living for a select group of small farms that meet their stringent standards. The organization was founded by Dr. Sam Simon, a retired orthopaedic surgeon who began life as a dairy farmer, and returned to his roots. Everything about HVF is top notch. They set the standards for quality and freshness. They ensure that their cows are healthy, comfortable and well fed. Their motto is: More comfort+less stress=better tasting milk.

And let me tell you, this is some good tasting milk! I am lactose intolerant, so I only tried a sip of the chocolate milk, but...OMG this stuff tastes like a milkshake made by angels! My travel companion vouched for the quality of the whole milk, and we did get to try some of the yogurt, which was also delicious. The best part of the visit, though, was having the chance to see one of the farms and meet not only the farmers and their family, but the cows. Jim and Jen, and their children, Jenna and Justin, welcomed us onto their farm and introduced us to their herd. Getting a chance to talk to people whose love for animals and the land was inspirational. I have such respect for these folks, and am honored to have had the opportunity to meet them. And the cows.

If you ever find yourself in the Mid-Hudson Valley, Long Island, New York City or select parts of Connecticut, and see Hudson Valley Fresh Milk on the grocery shelves, grab some. Especially the chocolate milk. I kid you not. It's da bomb. Visit their website: www.HudsonValleyFresh.com to learn more than you ever thought you wanted to know about dairy farming and milk.

That's all for today, kids. I'll give you the rest of the farm tour next time, when we go out to Long Island and visit some of the few remaining farms out there. Until then, be well, eat well, drink well.