Everyone shares a kinship with the land. No matter where we are in time or distance, the desire for an ideal country spot is very real. Whether the image comes from books, childhood experiences, or the depths of our souls, it has an indelible quality. The dream farm has fields here, an orchard there, a brook, and large trees near the perfect house, with the barns and outbuildings set off just so. The dream is effortless. The difficulty comes in trying to find such a place when you decide to buy one.
I suggest not trying to find that perfect place. Rather than the finished painting, look for the bare canvas. Every ideal farm at one time began as a field and woodland. Its transformation was the result of some predecessor’s planning, organization, building, and management. This is a satisfying process in itself, and the end result may be far more successful if it springs from the changes the farmer makes himself. – Eliot Coleman, The New Organic Grower
Yes, this. We all are prone to land lust, aren’t we? “If only my homestead was____… then I could be the homesteader I want to be.” The land-holder of 1/2 an acre wants 2, those of us who had 2 imagine the prospects we could have with 10, but what could we really do with 20 acres?!
If it’s not the desire for more than then it’s one for land that is more manageable. Better soil, topography, more sun or southern exposure, better pastures.
I know these feeling oh so well. Privacy, maple trees for sugaring, more room for some beef cattle, better soil, a pond or stream, I could go on.
Perhaps the most satisfying and successful homestead is the one that is built from contentment.
I know it’s not easy to admit, but do you find yourself struggling with being content with the challenges and limitations on your farm?
Shanna Halfon says
25 October, 2015 atWhat wonderful timing. After praying, dreaming, wishing, despairing, and crying for 15 years, we have finally made an offer on a little piece of land. And yes, concessions were made and priorities were adjusted. Please pray with me that, if this is God's will, the process will go smoothly.
Reformation Acres says
26 October, 2015 at15 years! I'm am quite impressed with your patience and pray the Lord has and will continue to use the circumstances to bring you closer to Him, that He would give you the desires of your heart, and you will care for the land for His glory! Some exciting times are ahead for you 🙂
Reformation Acres says
26 October, 2015 at15 years! I'm am quite impressed with your patience and pray the Lord has and will continue to use the circumstances to bring you closer to Him, that He would give you the desires of your heart, and you will care for the land for His glory! Some exciting times are ahead for you 🙂
Katy Nieto says
27 October, 2015 atForget winning football games 😛 This is what Phil. 4:13 is talking about! Finding contentment in whatever/whereever God puts you! Only something that can be done through Christ, who gives me strength! Good word 🙂
Peacock Orchard says
28 October, 2015 atI have 40 acres and still want more. Where I live you can't keep 2 cows on 40 acres. I hope to change that….but we'd have to import the majority of our feed at this point. Come on Sainfoin, do me right!
Renata says
7 November, 2015 atYes, perfectly written! I know sometimes I want somewhere with more rain, but then have to remind myself that if there was more rain, other problems come! I am so blessed to live right here!
🙂
Quinn says
9 November, 2015 atYou sure are! You might have some challenges (we all do in different ways) but you sure have one beautiful spot there Renata!