I recently had the pleasure of a visit from an unlikely group of world travelers. Sponsored by the U.S. Department of State's International Visitor Leadership Program, and coordinated by the Washington World Affairs Council and World Learning, this group of weary travelers came down to the farm to stretch their legs after enduring many professional and office appointments in DC, New York, Pennsylvania, and Missouri. They were a fun and engaging group of entrepreneurs, innovators, and rural business developers. They also held some very lofty titles and many had a veritable alphabet of degrees behind their names. I was largely outclassed by this gracious and eager group.

"How did this happen?" you might ask. Well, an acquaintance at the State Department of Archeology and Historic Preservation flattered me with big words like diplomacy and entrepreneurial acumen. I must say I was a bit skeptical about his decision to ask that we host this visit, but was immediately swept away by the enthusiasm and honest interest of this group, not to mention their fierce sense of humor.

 I fielded a lot of questions, not just about farming and our farming practices, but about how we use social media and technology at the farm. We talked about branding and marketing strategy. We laughed at my poor grasp of the English language.

 If you are out there, thank-you for a memorable afternoon. I needed the break and the good company at least as much as you did. It was a great pleasure to have met you all.