Wow. I can’t believe it’s already day 2 of 2023. Honestly, and trust me, I know I’m a broken record when I say this every year, but so much happened in 2022! It was a year of so many first for us and getting settled into our new home, having another baby, getting acquainted with this land, and really diving into growing our farm business. And I know, without a doubt, that each year will continue to get busier with a growing family and growing business. It should stop surprising me at some point that so much can happen in a year (ha!), but chances are I’ll still be shocked when I look back on everything- so don’t be surprised when I exclaim how busy 2023 was in next year’s “year in review”!

We experienced so many beautiful moments this year- welcoming our second child tops the list for sure. Sweet little Ander is a ray of sunshine, gives the absolute best hugs in the world, and is a very busy baby, already toddling about the house at 9 months old. Kade adores him and is adjusting to sharing space, mom and dad, grandparents, and toys with his little bro. Kade started preschool this year and is enjoying playing with other kiddos and is bringing home lots of new immunity-boosting treats for us all to enjoy! In all seriousness though, it has been such a joy bringing another little one to the family, and I can’t wait to watch these two munchkins grow up on this piece of land and explore every nook and cranny there is to find. Oh, what fun adventures they will no doubt have together!

I know I don’t just speak for myself when I say exploring this property and getting to know this land over the last year has made ME live out my very own childhood dreams! It was a privilege to watch and learn and we truly got a college education in irrigating, haying, and operating our livestock on a larger piece of land. We feel lucky everyday for landing here and building a life and business in this beautiful place.

With all the beauty we experienced this year, we also endured a lot of loss. Far too many people we knew and were acquainted with left this beautiful world and are a heartbreaking reminder of how sacred each day is and how lucky we all are just to be here for another day. Life is so tender and while loss hurts and is painful it also evokes a sense of urgency for those of us who are fortunate enough to live another day, to live each day to the absolute fullest.

Our plates have been full, and I foresee, will continue to be piled upon in the coming year. I look forward to tackling everything that comes our way with grace and enthusiasm and living each day for the true gift that it is.

Happy New Year from our family to yours!

Farmer Kinzie