Back to basics

The world is volatile and with the recession and economic concerns stepping back in time just makes sense.  Sitting down as a family and discussing ideas and options was the first step in moving into a simpler life.  Raising children in today's climate can be difficult with all the pressures and the quick pace that surrounds them.  Buying a large tract of land that can be turned into a small family farm that would allow us to be self sufficient was the perfect solution to all our concerns.

We found the land and bought it and started our transition to leaving behind a more suburban, on-the-go lifestyle to a slower pace rural setting.  The home was foreclosed on and needs a lot of work.  Putting our touches in place and doing all the hard work is exciting and we cannot wait to implement all our ideas and renovations. The eldest boy has plans to build his house himself from the ground up.  This will also be an exciting adventure for the family. 

To start off with we will build a chicken house and then purchase chickens and build rabbit hutches to raise rabbits.  An acre of land will be turned into a large garden where most of our food will be grown.  When the pastures are fenced properly and the new grass is growing for grazing, the plan will be to purchase two cows.

This ongoing process will take quite some time and a lot of hard work and there will be costs to incur up front.  As our farm begins to take form and starts functioning  it will allow our family to become self sustainable,  and the savings will become evident.

Starting a small sustainable farm can be done in small steps so that it is achievable to anyone that wants to do it.

First, find the land and make sure that the soil is of good quality for animals and vegetables.  If buying a large tract of land is not feasible looking to renting farm land.

Make sure the water source is not tainted and that it is drinkable for animals and people.  Having it tested is a good idea.

Start slow, the costs of putting the farm together can become substantial if everything is purchased right away.  Build rabbit hutches first and get a few rabbits.  Move to the chicken coop and add some chickens for eggs and meat.  Start with what you can afford and do not spend more than you need to because animals can get expensive if they get sick or die and you lose all of your investment.

Plan your garden.  It does not have to be large to start with work towards your dream garden in the beginning but plant what you know you can grow and what you will be able to freeze or can for the season.  Do good research when you make your garden plan so that you get the best quality vegetables from your hard work.

Look ahead to the future and make plans for where you want your farm to go.  If you need better grazing grass plan for that and do the research.  Start your fencing.  Putting up fences does not have to be done in a day.  Purchase the supplies you can afford and do what you can a little at a time. 

One thing about trying to build a small farm that is free and you will need a lot of is patience.  Taking your time to keep your expenses in check and making sure you are not out spending what you have will require the ability to take things slow.  Nothing has to be done in a day and if you move into this type of lifestyle with that attitude it can be a fun and exciting process.