Hi, I’m Sam Hedin. I’ve lived in Big Lake for 8 years with my husband and two children. Living here has allowed me to begin focusing on my dreams of launching our Urban Farm and making plans to grow it in the future! I love being outside and finding peace among my gardens and the nature around me. One thing I am looking forward to is meeting new people as our kids become involved in more activities. My extended family does not live in the area – though fortunately my in-laws just moved to Big Lake – so getting to know more people here will be wonderful. This summer I will be at the Big Lake Farmer’s Market so please come say hello! I’d love to meet you and share more about my farm with each of you!
Q: Please tell us a little bit about your family.
My husband, Jason and I, have been married 9 years. We have 2 young children, Charlee -7- and Clayton – 6. I grew up in Anoka and Jason grew up in Ramsey. We lived in Elk River for about 7 years, got married, started our family and realized we needed more space. We then moved to Big Lake. The majority of my family has moved out of Minnesota except my sister. I’m happy to say my in-laws moved to big Lake last year and I love having them close by.
Q: How long have you lived and/or worked in Big Lake?
We have lived in Big Lake for 8 years.
Q: Tell us about your current, past, or future career.
Currently, I work at Chow Catering part time. I love working with the catering team and getting the opportunity to go to various locations for catering events. Prior to this I was a Paralegal at a Family Law Firm for 14 years. Besides my position at Chow, I am also an Urban Farmer. We have just launched our farming business and intend to keep growing it in the future. My husband built me a beautiful greenhouse on our property and we focus on microgreens, herbs, and cut flowers. You will be able to find me at the Big Lake Farmer’s Market this summer!
Q: Have you ever had a nickname? What is it and why were you given it?
Most people call me Sam. My family always called me Sammy and they still do.
Q: What is your favorite TV Show, Movie, Book? (Please list as many as you’d like!)
I don’t have a ton of time for TV but when I do, I enjoy the “classics” – Friends, The Office, and New Girls. Jason and I did just start re-watching Shameless and I found the show Good Girls as well. I love to read! One of my favorite authors is Delores Cannon.
Q: If you could only eat one food/meal and have one beverage for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Definitely tacos! And I would choose to have water as my beverage.
Q: What are some of your favorite hobbies or pastimes?
Gardening, hiking, boating, and just sitting in peace.
Q: What is one thing on your bucket list?
I really want to travel the world. There are so many places I would like to see.
Q: What would you buy/do if you won the lottery?
I would start with fulfilling my bucket list travel! I would also continue farming with bigger greenhouses and more land. I would love to start a school or classes for kids to learn about the farming I do.
Q: What has been a challenge you have had to overcome? (Life, School, Work, etc.)
I have had to become comfortable in my own skin and not worry about other people’s opinions of me.
Q: If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?
I would like to be more extroverted and less introverted.
Q: Who has been a hero in your life?
My husband! He’s the extrovert in our relationship, but more importantly he’s incredibly hard-working. He demonstrates so much positivity and gives his all in everything he does. He’s a wonderful human.
Q: What is something even your family and friends may not know about you?
Some people do not know that I do a lot of energy work and I have some psychic abilities.
Q: What is your proudest accomplishment?
My children. They are so amazing. Also, that I never give up on my dreams. I never thought I’d be able to open this farm but I have worked hard and I’m excited to see it grow in the future.
Q: What are a few of your favorite businesses / restaurants in Big Lake?
I love Magic Mushrooms in the Crystal Garden, Haven Bookstore, Lupulin, Ember Coffee, Willy’s on the Water, and MN Wholesalers.
Q: What is one of your favorite things about Big Lake?
I really do enjoy all the businesses here in town. We have so many different places to shop, eat, etc.
Q: What advice would you give to people living in Big Lake?
Just get involved in our community.
Q: Who is an interesting person in our community that you’ve met and deserves to be included in The Faces of Big Lake project?
Karen Heitschmidt – she owns Haven Bookstore and I just love her!
