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About The Farmers Why are we here?
Well, we did what many people only dream of doing. We left it all behind and moved to a tropical island in the middle of the Pacific Ocean to become one with the land! We have always been entrepreneurs and unafraid to take risks or try something new. From being in irrigation golf course construction to owning a John Deere equipment dealership, we were always ready to take on a new challenge. Both of us grew up on farms and ranches in Colorado so we also have a deep respect for agriculture.
Three years prior to this major move, our 18-year-old daughter, Megan, was killed in an auto accident. When something so tragic changes your life, it causes you to reflect on your path and what you really want for your future. Finding this beautiful farm on the Big Island (which is also known as the Healing Island) became our answer. Sweet Spirit Farms brings us a sense of peace and belonging, and Megan’s sweet spirit is right here along with us.
Ancient Hawaiian life was directed by spiritual guidance, and the belief that the spirit was often found on Earth through a living creature. These creatures were known as ‘aumakua, or guardian angels. We believe our ‘aumakua is the ‘io, the native Hawaiian Hawk found only on the Big Island. It is always a treat when we get a visit from the ‘io, soaring above our farm, watching over us, reminding us to live well, to love nature, and to care for the land (malama ‘aina). This graceful bird is seen on our logo and labels for Sweet Spirit Farms. Check out Sweet Links to learn more about the Hawaiian Hawk.
How did we get here?
We sold our house on the mainland in only one day, right before a trip to Hawaii to look for a farm to purchase. We found our property initially on the Internet, but there wasn’t any mention of an ocean view so we weren’t convinced. Once we actually set foot on the soon-to-be-named Sweet Spirit Farms, it was love at first sight. We also discovered the added bonus of an unobstructed view of the ocean and the waves hitting the lava shores of Pu’uhonua (Place of Refuge) National Historic Park. There were 5 acres of plumerias on the lower level of the farm and their sweet perfume wafted up to us as we looked over the land, envisioning what we would do. There was no turning back and we both knew we’d come to the right place.
We sold many of our worldly possessions, loaded up the majority of a 40’ Matson container with John Deere farming equipment, leaving a small bit of space for our personal items. The container was sent on its way via train, then across the ocean to our new home. Only one catch: there was no actual home to go to, as in house, place with a roof, lean-to, nothing. So we lived in a tent for ten months, without electricity or water (or refrigerator, Internet, TV, all those things you think you can’t live without). What a pioneering adventure that was! We got very up close and personal with Mother Nature during that time.
The property was quite overgrown and practically a jungle. We cleared the land, prepared it for new crops, installed drip irrigation, rejuvenated the existing coffee trees that had been neglected in the past, and proceeded to put our own mark on Sweet Spirit Farms. Untold gallons of water were hauled in and we went through three electrical generators, and also built a house with plenty of help. See what the First Year in paradise was like for us. We would have to say that it is probably not for everyone!
What’s happening now?
We just finished harvesting our second Kona coffee crop, which is so exciting for us when we think back to our farm’s humble beginnings four years ago. Sweet Spirit Farms now boasts over 3000 Arabica coffee trees in various stages of growth, and many more keiki (seedlings) in our nursery waiting to be planted. We had the honor of winning SECOND PLACE in the Kona Coffee Cultural Festival 2007 website contest! Sweet Spirit Farms also has a booth at Keauhou Farmers Market so come by and visit us Saturdays from 8 to 12. Our young mango trees continue to grow steadily each day and have already produced enough delicious mangos to get us totally addicted, even though the trees won’t be mature for another couple of years. All our other tropical fruits are healthy and happy. Visit our photo gallery to see what’s happening On The Farm. We work hard, but we are healthy and happy, too. We are especially thrilled to finally offer the products of our labor to you, our customers. If you haven't tried our delicious and unique Tropical Fruit & Nut Granola, it's time; it is really something special! Enjoy our Sweet Spirit Products, in the spirit of aloha, from our farm to you. Mahalo for visiting us and we’ll look forward to your return.
Surround yourself with excellence of spirit, and the
sweet things of life will overflow in abundance.
Anonymous
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