Yesterday we drove up to Vermont and looked at a piece of land. It was lovely, though we are not sure it is "the one." That would be okay. But then again, maybe it is... (oh, the decision making process).
We aren't exactly looking for that perfect forever piece, but one that we could build a sweet little off grid cabin on and retreat to as desired. A cabin we could also offer to others as a zen little place to write, make art, enjoy nature, and contemplate life.
(In other words, not your typical north woods hunting camp.)
This dream has been brewing for some time now, a stepping stone on this path of ours. I'm not sure how long the process will take, but it is wonderful to be actively looking.
The land we looked at yesterday was an eight acre parcel down a winding dirt road. It contained three acres of pasture and five acres of woodland (mixed hard and softwood), and plenty of stonewalls. There is a beautiful barn too, built not too long ago so it is in very good shape. The well structured barn adds incredible appeal to this property. Though I don't envision true farming at a getaway place - storage for canoes, kayaks, bikes, and Adam's woodworking shop would be much appreciated. However, if we were to farm here someday, the three acre pasture is entirely fenced in (the previous owner had sheep).
Adam had already seen the place, having driven up to look at several properties last week and this being one of them. But this is the first property I've seen. I'd like to see some more before deciding which is the right fit for us. I know the search will slow down over the winter (if we don't find something by then), but it would be lovely to have something in place by next spring or summer.
The town village is just right - one we've been to many times over the years. There is a bakery, a couple of cafes and restaurants, a bookstore, a fabric store, a yoga studio, a local foods market, and a beautiful Waldorf space for play, classes and birthday parties. There are other farm and artisan places sprinkled throughout the town too, but these are right in (or close to) the center.
I do love the search, though I can sense already the process involves just as much work and compromise as it does dreaming and hoping. Patience and grace are needed... I'm trying.
Patience, grace, hopes, dreams, work and compromise. All in all, not a bad theme for my fortieth birthday. xo
