we considered a field and bought it!

that's the text message that Luke sent me as he handed over the check to the former owner of 2 acres of land in New Albany, IN.

we are land owners.

we are (almost) farmers. we're on the cusp of a lot of changes - who knows what life will be like for us? we've never started our own business, we've never farmed 2 acres of land before (though we have gardened every square inch of green earth we could get our hands on), and neither of us have ever had a job that quits with the onset of winter. but we've also never felt so ready and certainly didn't believe that we would start living the dream so quickly.

we went out to the farm on Sunday to do a little planning and took a few pictures. I'm excited to share the changes in our life with you and am eager to show you how this plot of land will change as we get our hands in the dirt!

the Les and Alison Groces

As their time back in the States rapidly comes to a close, here is a post dedicated to them: Les, Alison, Marea, Joshua, Hannes, and Titus. We've enjoyed lots of sweet time with them since they arrived in August. For me, meeting them was a huge step in becoming a Groce, and I am even more in love with my husband's family for having them a part of it. These photos were taken one autumn afternoon when i nipped over for some play time and later found ourselves still there for dinner and bedtime stories...

Joshua, Alison, and Hannes.

Marea wrastlin' with Rue. I think Rue was actually exhausted at the end of our play time.

Titus chasing Alison around with a huge stick.



Dad's home!


Hannes decided that I should sit in his lap for the rest of our story time. And, boy, is he an animated story-teller:




Bed-time hugs.

We'll miss our family. All the kids will be so big the next time we see them! We might even have kids! Luke and I have really savored this season with Les, Alison, and Co. They've stepped in with the rest of the family in helping us make big decisions, dream about the future, and find contentment where we are right now. We've listened to great stories, read countless books, feasted on glorious gourmet meals (courtesy of Chef Les and Chef Luke - though some credit should go to the Ebelskiver for being an amazing addition to any home), and stayed out until 2 am laughing and talking.

Thanksgiving with the Groces is next and you know there's bound to be some killer food and photos. Until then,
kvg