When we walked through the meadows at the final walkthrough with the Lytles, we shared smiles and tears, bound by a shared love for this special place. They spoke of its history and the stories behind so many of the gardens, plants and trees that had taken root here. We learned they had exchanged their wedding vows at the end of the dock stretching into the pond, a spot that seemed to echo with their love for family and the land. It was clear this property was more than soil and trees—it was a legacy of devotion.

A New Beginning

In those first summer months, we discovered beauty at every turn. Each bloom felt like a small miracle, and we captured their arrival in photos to share with Mrs. Lytle through text messages. It felt like a way to honor her connection to this land while making it our own. When friends visited, our children joyfully gathered bouquets from the flowers that had burst into bloom. What started as a vision for a small vegetable farm slowly began to transform into something deeper.

One of the most meaningful moments came through an elegant red rose bush that Mrs. Lytle’s late father had planted for her. That rose became a connection point for us—a living symbol of love and resilience. Last fall, Mrs. Lytle was able to take the rose bush to her new home, a reminder of how deeply this land has touched all our lives. Through moments like these, we felt God’s hand guiding us toward sharing His beauty in the meadows.

Faith and Resilience

I’ve always been inspired by the Proverbs woman and strive, however imperfectly, to live by her example. For years, I believed our “field to market” would be vegetables, but God had a different plan. Living with Cervical Spina Bifida Occulta—a condition that affects my daily life—has taught me to lean on faith and adapt. Some days bring seizures, long periods of rest, or challenges that seem insurmountable. That’s why we built 3-foot-high raised beds—to ensure I could still nurture this dream, even on hard days.

Many people thought we were chasing an impossible dream, but we believed in God’s vision for our community. With the help of our children, who earn a fair wage for their efforts as part of their homeschooling, we’ve embraced this journey together. They’re learning not just about farming, but about community, perseverance, and the joy of creating something meaningful.

With the Lytles’ blessing, we’re honored to preserve and share the stories of this land. Every corner of the meadows holds history, beauty, and a reminder that God’s plans are always unfolding in His perfect timing.

“Long before Zacchaeus needed to see Jesus, the sycamore tree was planted to meet his need.” ~Unknown