Intro Page and Contents

Table of Contents

Introduction.............................................................Pg. 5
  1. Having Joy in All Circumstances......................Pg. 6
  2. Do Not Envy.....................................................Pg. 12
  3. Be Content.......................................................Pg. 17
  4. Hospitality? Me? Why?....................................Pg. 23
  5. Humor on the Farm..........................................Pg. 29
  6. Don't Forget Your Husband..............................Pg. 34
  7. You Are Not Unworthy......................................Pg. 40
  8. Is There No Peace?............................................Pg. 46
  9. Don't Forget Your Children Either.....................Pg. 51
  10. You Want Me To Do What?............................... Pg. 57
  11. Anger................................................................. Pg. 62
  12. Should I Be Superwoman?.................................Pg. 68
  13. Do You Wear Pumps on the Farm?.....................Pg. 74
  14. Loneliness...........................................................Pg. 80
  15. My Convictions/Your Convictions......................Pg. 86










Introduction

Homesteading is not for the faint of heart, nor is it easy. What some think of as a dreamy way of life, is actually a hard life in reality. The rewards far outweigh the hardships, but sometimes we, ladies, can struggle with many negative thoughts and actions on the farm.

We have different struggles than most wives and mothers. The best of people could never fully understand what we go through physically and emotionally, unless they jump on board this sometimes crazy boat!

Listening to others' struggles made me realize how hard it is to relate to the 'normal' people at times. Homesteading is a huge challenge, and if we aren't careful, we could fall into a bad trap that could ruin our adventure.

I am a work in progress. Here on the farm, I have learned so many valuable lessons. Lessons that God orchestrated for me. I'm sure I missed the opportunity to learn all of what He has rolled out for me, but I have found some biblical truths on the farm that I can't help but share to other women who have the same struggles.

I also wrote this book as a constant reminder for myself. It is a continual molding process, which, I think at times that God's hands must get pretty tired with me!

Ever feel like you can't measure up to other women because of the dirty jobs we have to do on the farm?

Is envy eating away at you and you are desiring to be 'normal?'

Are you struggling with being a little too judgmental towards those who aren't as like-minded as you?

Did you lose oneness with your husband?

These are just a few struggles that I wrestled with and share with you here and more. You are not alone!

Even if you do not have a homestead, but believe God is leading you and your family in that direction, this book will help prepare you spiritually and emotionally for an amazing adventure!

Come and join me as I share my heart, my thoughts and struggles. I have exposed some of my sinful thoughts and actions with you and how God's word has helped me overcome the mess.

The homestead is a blessing. Let us find those blessings together!