One year ago, we took a leap of faith and moved to our homestead, which we lovingly named Promise View Acres. The journey has been filled with challenges, triumphs, unexpected blessings, and countless lessons. We wanted to share some of our experiences and what we've learned along the way.
Starting with Faith
When we first purchased our land, we had big dreams but limited experience. We knew that this journey would require us to trust God every step of the way. There were moments of doubt and uncertainty, especially when faced with unexpected challenges like our well running dry in the middle of summer or our first garden being overtaken by pests.
But through it all, we learned to lean on God's promises. We discovered that homesteading isn't just about growing food or raising animals—it's about growing in faith and raising our eyes to the One who provides all things. Each challenge became an opportunity to trust Him more deeply.
The land is where our roots are. The land is our nourisher and protector. The land is where we learn the most important lessons about faith, perseverance, and God's provision.
Practical Lessons from Our First Year
Beyond the spiritual growth, we also learned many practical lessons that we wish we had known from the beginning. Here are some of the most important ones:
- Start small and expand gradually. Our initial garden was too ambitious and became overwhelming.
- Invest in good quality tools from the beginning—they save time and frustration.
- Connect with other homesteaders in your area for advice and community.
- Keep detailed records of plantings, harvests, and animal care.
- Plan for seasons of rest—homesteading can be all-consuming if you let it.
Perhaps the most important practical lesson was learning to embrace imperfection. Not every crop will thrive, not every project will succeed, and that's okay. The journey is about progress, not perfection.
Looking Forward
As we enter our second year at Promise View Acres, we do so with excitement and a deeper understanding of both the challenges and joys that lie ahead. We're expanding our garden, adding a few more animals to our homestead, and continuing to share our journey with you all. We're grateful for this community and the encouragement you've provided along the way. Here's to another year of growth, learning, and living in the promise of God's faithfulness!