I’ve had the incredible privilege of visiting many, many homesteads across this country.

Some are vast with acres that seem to go on forever! Others are tiny, tiny backyards in the middle of the city. And most are in between. Some have animals. Some have plants. Some have both. There are those who have taken on the challenge of homesteading on a steep hill, on rocky soil, or next to a busy road. Others have chosen to homestead at the end of a looooong dirt road that crosses a creek! Other homesteads have a history of farmers whispering the truth of the land; others will uncover those truths as they begin to write their own stories on the land.

But for ALL the homesteads I have visited, there is one recurring special aspect to each and every one.

Heart.

The heart of each homesteader is evident in the transformation of their land and the beauty from hours of toiling. They talk about their homesteads as if they are precious, living, breathing entities, and in reality, I suppose they are. Into these living creatures and plants, these homesteaders give their very soul to keep all healthy and thriving. There is pride on their face and strength in their voice when they figuratively take your hand and recount the journey they have been on. The heartaches, the joys, the unexpected surprises …and disappointments. The investment of time, learning, and literal blood, sweat, and tears - manifesting a dream into reality. 

What an honor and privilege it was to see the hearts of so many of our ladies evidenced in their land, no matter how large or small. Our Community may be vast in measuring miles, but by the heart measurement, we are all truly connected into one beautiful Community.