From the moment Erica and I began our relationship, an undeniable pull toward the countryside tugged at our hearts. Following our marriage in January 2010, while stationed at Tinker AFB in OKC, our journeys frequently led us back to Wichita. The northbound drive along I-35 was accompanied by endless acres of farmland, igniting within us a desire to one day call a farm our own.
Despite the constraints of military life, our dreams of homesteading never wavered. Serving at McConnell AFB in Wichita, we purchased a charming home in Derby, Kansas – a symbol of accomplishment to many. Yet, the confines of HOAs and a mere ¼ acre proved more of a hassle than a haven for our growing family.
By the grace of God, he guided us to a house nestled on 13 acres, just an hour's drive away, in none other than a town named Haven. Intimidating at first glance and exceeding our budget, this property presented itself during the frenzy of the real estate market. Curious and compelled, I convinced Erica to explore this unexpected opportunity.
Amid heartfelt prayers and contemplation, we decided not to pursue this farm unless the sellers lowered the price – an improbable concession given the market climate. Departing for a family camping trip in the Wichita Mountains, we disconnected from the digital world. Our hearts overflowed with gratitude as we offered a prayer for the chance to explore the farmhouse.
Upon returning to civilization and cell service, a call from our realtor left us awestruck. The sellers had an astonishing change of heart, dropping the property price to the very dollar amount we had deemed necessary to proceed. Without hesitation, we seized the opportunity, and within a matter of months, the keys to our new home were in our hands.
Our journey into homesteading and permaculture farming was uncharted territory, neither of us possessing prior knowledge of raising animals beyond our beloved dogs. Undeterred, we immersed ourselves in research, drawn to the teachings of Joel Salatin and his innovative Permaculture Farming methods. It became clear – this was our calling.
The trajectory of our lives was set, and with much enthusiasm, we started on the path of homesteading and permaculture farming, turning our dreams into a reality. Though the journey thus far has been far from a fairytale farm story, we would not change it for the world. Come and join us on this amazing adventure as we learn the “Do’s and Don’ts” of homesteading, at Dug Fresh Farms!
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