After a full year of renovations, we no longer have any tools or paint brushes stationed in the farm house, or what we have affectionately referred to for so long as “Louise’s House” after our former neighbor. Those who’ve read about our history (see Our Roots) know we bought the house next door in a land grab deal so we could get the farm up and running. At least that’s part of the story. The house is quickly becoming “Grandma’s House” since Dan’s mother and father moved there in late-September.

When we were first imagined tenants for the farm house, we thought we might find a young couple interested in sustainable agriculture. Some graduate students from Ohio State, perhaps. Folks who might trade work on the farm for a CSA share. While she isn’t the urban hipster we imagined, Dan’s mom is an avid gardener and has deep connections with this place (again, see Our Roots). She owns an investment property, so she understands what it means to be a landlord and she treats things with respect. Having her and Dan’s dad next door is great for the kids and we’re looking forward to celebrating the seasons with them.

Here are a few before and after shots of the house. We’re thrilled to be finished so we devote more of our leisure time to family, and farming.

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