#4 Cultivating My Dream
For as long as I can remember, I've been fascinated by the idea of owning land—specifically farmland, both arable and pasture.
As a child, and even now, I’ve loved watching farming shows like Countryfile and, more recently, Clarkson’s Farm.
Though I wasn’t raised on a farm, I was fortunate that my parents had a large garden. We had a vegetable patch, a greenhouse, and even kept chickens for eggs. I loved it. This experience also sparked my interest in gardening. I enjoy maintaining a tidy lawn—as well as pruning trees and bushes.
I dream of owning a house set on a couple of acres. Land that can be used to raise a few farm animals and to grow food, bringing me one step closer to self-sufficiency.
I’m not particularly concerned with the house on the land, as long as it keeps my family dry, warm, and safe.
My true interest lies in the land itself—the grass, the trees, the wildlife, and the landscape.
I love getting my hands dirty and doing a bit of DIY. So, a barn or stable block renovation would be an excellent project.
Beyond my personal desires, this dream has grown stronger since having a family. My wife shares my dream of owning some land and raising animals. More than anything, we want to raise our child (and hopefully children one day) on a smallholding. I want them to enjoy the outdoors and connect with nature.
Spending time in nature is incredibly beneficial for child development. It fosters creativity and imagination as children explore their surroundings and invent games. Nature also provides endless opportunities for physical activity, which is crucial for their growth and overall health. Furthermore, being outdoors helps children develop a sense of responsibility and empathy as they care for animals and plants. The natural environment can also be a great stress reliever, promoting mental well-being and reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression in children. Lastly, nature encourages curiosity and learning, offering a hands-on education about ecosystems, weather, and sustainability.
While we all get absorbed into technology daily—an integral part of our lives—finding the right balance between nature and technology is crucial.
Perhaps one day, I can make this dream a reality.
Keep dreaming.