Father Along- Almost One Year on the Homestead

The Big Move

It’s hard to believe it’s already been almost a year since we packed up our lives and made the move from our little ¼ acre residential home to our 6-acre homestead. We moved as a family of three — myself, Johan and our daughter — along with three dogs, two cats, nine chickens, and even a small fish tank. Since then, our family has grown in the sweetest way: this year we welcomed our second daughter, and she has already become part of the heart of our homestead.

Why We Chose Homesteading

Moving to the country has always been a dream of mine, and over time it is a dream Johan has come to share. However, we never imagined the opportunity would come so soon — but when the door opened, we knew it was God’s timing.

We longed for:

• Space to call our own

• Room to raise animals and grow food

• A slower, cleaner way of life

• A place for our children to grow up loving nature and appreciating hard work

We have felt God's presence from the first time we stepped foot on this property, and his hand has been evident along the way as everything has fallen into place. We didn't always understand His timing, but we've come to learn that “farther along” we can look back and see how perfectly He brought everything together.

First Projects on the Homestead

When we arrived, the land was a blank slate — wild, unruly, and neglected. And truthfully, much of it still is and some of it more so than before.

Our first priority was fencing in an acre for the dogs and building a coop so our “lovely ladies” could join us on the homestead. From there, the dream list grew: a flourishing garden, an orchard, a barn, a patio, and more.

Lessons from Our First Year

Not everything went as planned. My garden sits unfinished, mostly covered in weeds. The six apple trees I planted are alive but overgrown and in need of care.

But instead of seeing failure, I’ve come to see beauty in the slow progress. Homesteading isn’t a checklist you complete in one season — it’s a lifetime journey of growth, patience, and grace.

This year, my heart settled on the chickens. We added 20 chicks in the spring, and they have become the heartbeat of Farther Along Homestead. Their quirks, curiosity, and yes — their eggs — bring us daily joy.

Looking Ahead

Our greatest work this year hasn’t been in the soil, but in our home — welcoming our daughter and settling into life as a family of four.

Dreaming and planning keeps us excited for the future, but slowing down and enjoying the process is just as important.

In a world that seems to be moving faster every day, we’re choosing to slow down again, rediscovering the simple joys God has for us — one season, one project, one blessing at a time.

This is only the beginning of Farther Along Homestead, and we’re so glad you’re here to share it with us.

From our family to yours,

The Micolta Family – Farther Along Homestead

Proverbs 3:5-6

If you’ve ever dreamed of country living, what would be your first project — a garden, animals, or something else? Share with us in the comments!