Now that I’m back home, after attending Farm Aid 2014 in beautiful Raleigh, NC, I wanted to take a moment to reflect on all that has been accomplished, and how far we still have to go when it comes to supporting farmers in this country. The mission to promote sustainable agriculture continues, long after we’ve heard the last note of music played.

For 29 years, Farm Aid has spoken to us about what’s happening in the farming community and stirred us to action. All while entertaining us with wonderful music from such dedicated performers such as Willie Nelson, Neil Young, Dave Matthews and John Mellencamp.

I had such a great time at Farm Aid this year and I had the opportunity to speak with local farmers who are somehow making it work while staying true to their beliefs. In particular, I met many farmers who are now making the change to organic farming after many generations of family farming.

It’s wonderful to be able to support these organic farmers, and I’m inspired by their stories. At Wild Oats, we are eager to work with them and look forward to a more sustainable future thanks to their hard work.

It was also very gratifying to see so many people come together to support our farmers. With such an atmosphere of celebration, it’s hard to come back down to earth and get back to my normal daily routine. I will miss the community fellowship, music, great food and laughter that was a big part of this wonderful day.

But now it’s time to get back to work and move forward toward our goals. I hope next year will find us together again at Farm Aid 2015, having made real progress, and being able to once again enjoy great music and a good time.