The definition of a homesteader has definitely changed over the last several hundred years. At one point, this term was used to describe someone who would live and work on the land in hopes of earning the right to own the land. In today’s world, you can find a million and one social media groups dedicated to the modern homesteader or anyone who wants to put in a little work on their own home/land, etc. There are even apartment homesteaders stretching the definition, but then again, who am I to judge.
As we dreamed of the opportunity to own land and to have quiet open space Tyrel and I started binge-watching Homestead Rescue and other shows that showed the individual strength and determination to create a sustainable life on one’s own land. It may be an inherited trait or a desire to return to a simpler life where we can provide food and live off our land (for the most part). It may be from living on an island far from sustainable and seeing the implications and effects of the reliance on shipping and external resources. Nonetheless, desire and interest were born. Tyrel and I would like to know if we can change how we live and even consider the possibility of retiring early from the hustle and bustle of our lives.
Granted, working two and sometimes three jobs to make ends meet in Hawaii, and Tyrel working long hours, sometimes weekends and most holidays, meant that this transition would require a total brain shift. We were fortunate to sell our home on Maui quickly, pay off all debts and find a home with existing solar (which needs some work), gas appliances, and the opportunity to build a small farm.
I downsized my employment to only working one job and having some time to write on the side. We could have a little Funny Farm action, and I could put out a bestseller. Tyrel is working on getting his North Carolina Electrical license and opening his own business, which he so cleverly named KATZ Electric… How did I not know that each of the first initials of our family would spell KATZ?!?
As I look out over our land and sit in our sunroom while the world wakes up, I am thankful we made this decision. That we have our own piece of the world, secluded in the woods, away from the hustle and bustle. I am excited to share our adventure as we build our little farm, grow our little garden, make mistakes, and learn from the experience.
Escaping Crazy 