The Space Between

There’s an odd space in between the moment you make a decision and the time you put that decision into action.  It is a sort of otherworldly limbo in which the world moves around you in slow motion like so many Hollywood blockbusters.  Then it hits you.  You have just taken on the biggest challenge of your life and you don’t have the foggiest idea what you’re doing.

I have learned over the years that there is rarely any difference between an A-ha! moment and an Oh Shit! moment.  It’s all a matter of how other people see you handling it.  For that reason I made a deal with myself to show this process for what it truly is, warts and all.  When we make mistakes along the way we’re going to ‘fess up to them, learn and move forward with finding the solution that works for us.

Building this homestead isn’t about keeping up appearances or keeping up with the Joneses.  In fact it isn’t about keeping up at all, it’s about slowing down.  Taking the time to look around and appreciate the beauty that is right outside our door.  Then stepping out, falling flat on your face, spilling your coffee and stepping in dog poop.

Okay, so I probably won’t be sharing photos of those moments, but you get the idea.

Where to Start…

The most daunting part of such a big endeavor as this is figuring out where to start.  When you’re dealing with a 2.5 acre blank slate it is even more difficult.

Housing
The existing mobile home on the property is an adequate living quarters in the short term.  Long term goals include building a new recycled/reclaimed home.

Land Improvement
There are several areas that need attention quickly:

• Erosion Control
  The most important issue.  We will contact the county Soil & Water Conservation office to seek professional advice about dealing with the problem.
• Soil Building
  Crucial for being able to grow our own food and to sustain plantings that will help with erosion.
• Water Drainage
  The old tax map of the property shows what appeared to be a creek.  It has apparently been diverted over the years creating ongoing drainage issues throughout the property.  Another issue to discuss with the Soil & Water Conservation office.

Ever notice that there is always a lot more on the “to do” list than on the “done did” list?

Tags: cooperative extension, land planning, water conservation