Home Sweet Farm

I'm standing in the midst of the new farmstead on a windy, warm March late afternoon. My legs are achy and my head fuzzy from 2 solid days of driving, leading a caravan of three heavily loaded trailers to the newly acquired farmstead. We've officially owned Wild Type Ranch (Northern edition) for 27 days, but this is my first time coming "home" to it.

Homecoming panorama of Wild Type Ranch, March 2025

I've just taken a private tour of the old house while operating partners (and nephews) Karl and Justin, along with hubby Ralph are beginning to untarp the three trailers we pulled up from Texas. As I stand in the yard, the wind dies down and the air fills with the sounds of sandhill cranes, Canada geese and redwing blackbirds. Cardinals and meadowlarks have their say, as well. Tears come undbidden. I find myself sobbing; the single word "home" resonating with each heartbeat. The land already has a hold on my soul.

In the weeks since the purchase, other family members have been pitching in to give us a head start on reviving the farm to full working order. My sister and sister-in-law (who happen to also be mothers to Justin and Karl) have worked hard to give a first cleaning to the bottom floor of the old house, partially renovated, but unlived-in for 20 years. It now beckons to become at least the farm office, if not a guest quarters or AirBnB. Brother JR (Karl's Dad) is busy applying his considerable electrical expertise to turning the old garage into the chick brooder for the chicks due next week.

We've got our work cut out for us, and I'm certain there will be some challenging times ahead, along with wonder, joy and good food shared with family and community. I am overflowing with gratitude for everything that enabled us to get here. Stay tuned for a front-row seat to our adventures!