Story Time Thursday

My husband and I first began discussing homesteading after getting married. When deciding where we wanted to live and have our life together, it sounded like an appealing option. We enjoy where we live currently as it is conveniently close to everything we need and a relatively quiet suburb.

However, we wanted our own space that we own and buying a house anywhere near this area is much too pricey. Even rent for a small apartment is on the verge of being unaffordable. Buying land out in the country is much cheaper and we can make pretty much any changes we want without worrying about HOA or apartment complex violations over small things.

Another reason prompting us to consider homesteading is how crazy the world seems to be right now. It’s a little scary how fragile society is, and even though my husband and I aren’t serious doomsday preppers, it’d be nice to know we could make it on our own if we had to. A lot of people made it through the Great Depression decades ago by growing a good portion of their own food, and regardless of anything happening or not, I think it’s a good way to save money on food once it’s set up.

Along those lines, there’s also just the benefit of knowing exactly where your food has been. I like to eat as naturally as possible. Not only is homegrown food probably the most natural, but it’s also the freshest (and usually the best-tasting because of that).

The final reason is that even though we like living where we do, there’s something about our town that encourages complacency. It’s a small suburb where you run into people you know often, but with most people there’s a sense of fakeness. Everyone just does their own thing and acts like everything’s fine whether it is or not. I believe in continually growing and learning through life’s challenges and continuing to live here would hamper that growth, I think. Homesteading is something that practically requires growth, but offers so many rewards in exchange.

Is homesteading for you? You might want to give it some thought if any of the below reasons apply for you.

• Looking for a cheaper way to live

• Want free rein in what you do on your property

• Want to eat healthier, better food

• Want the capability to be at least somewhat self-sufficient

• Want the opportunity to learn and grow everyday

• Or it just sounds like the kind of lifestyle you’d enjoy!