A Day to Remember

  For months I have been planning my trip to Fermentation Fest in Reedsburg, WI because I knew that Sandor Katz was going to be there.  If you are not familiar with the work of Sandor Katz, I highly suggest that at the very least you check out his website at www.wildfermentation.com and then go and borrow a few of his books from your local library.  What truly inspires me about this man is that not only does he have so much knowledge on the subject of fermentation but he is so humble in his delivery.  When listening to him speak all you feel is his passion for the subject that is driving him to share his knowledge with everyone that is wanting to listen.

  Today was finally the day that I got to make the 2 hour drive for the Fest and most importantly, to meet Sandor Katz.  Today was a day that I will never forget...First, it was a great road trip that I got to share with my daughter.  Some days it can be hard to split your attention amongst 4 kids and one on one time with them is so special.  Second, I got to meet my fermenting idol...seriously, I rank him up there higher than most celebrities that I would like to meet.  Sadly, my list of "celebrities" pretty much only includes big names in traditional foods.  Next on my list are Sally Fallon and Wardeh Harmon, and yes I realize what a nerd I am.

  Anyway, Zola and I headed out of town this morning and after registering we made our way around the Art DTour.  There were art exhibits, stands of homemade goods, and farms to tour, we had so much fun.  We also stopped in at the Fermentation Gift Shop and did a little shopping.

I purchased this glass that will now be known as "Mom's glass, so keep your hands off!"

 One of the many great art exhibits.

We got to tour a sunflower farm.

I want to have a sign like this for the front of my house!

  Now, for my favorite part of the day...after our fun on the Art DTour we had dinner at the pub where the book signing was to be held.  When Sandor came in Zola and I gathered our things and got in line.  We had to preregister for a spot at the book signing, at first I thought this was odd but then I realized that it was because he was kind enough to spend quite a bit time with each person that had registered.  I had ample time to give my praise, ask questions, and to give more praise...oh and to have my daughter take a picture of the two of us.  He asked Zola if she like sauerkraut and she truthfully answered "I think it is gross but I love kombucha and fermented fruits."

  I am so happy that I was not the only person there that was beside themselves with excitement...I turned to the lady behind me to chat while in line and I made a comment about being so nervous and meeting a fermenting rock star.  She commented that she had met Eric Clapton and how she was 10 times more excited to meet Sandor Katz.  I guess it is a "culture" thing that some people will never understand.