The Hands That Make It Home
A farm is more than soil, fences, and animals. It’s the people who bring it to life — the ones who lend their hands, their hearts, and their faith to turn a piece of land into a home. At A-7 Farms, every member of our family plays a role, big or small, in shaping the dream we’re building together.
Emily’s Perspective
For Emily, the most rewarding part of this journey has been moving out here and giving the children a better life — one surrounded by nature and far from the noise of the city. She jokes that she’ll “kill all the plants,” so the gardening will be left to myself and the kids, but she’s always willing to help with record-keeping and small tasks that keep things moving forward.
The hardest part has been learning to slow down. She admits that rushing has always been a struggle for the family, and balancing Family K9 Services with the needs of the farm and the kids has stretched everyone thin. Still, she sees this as an area where faith guides the way: “We’re so gracious for everything we’ve gotten from Him, and we keep His thoughts in everything we do.”
When Emily pictures the farm in five or ten years, her dream is simple and steady — to have a home rooted here on this land. She takes pride in watching the children adapt to farm life, spending their days outdoors, playing in the dirt, taking walks with dogs, and living free of screens and constant media. “It’s the way kids should grow up,” she says.
Her most treasured memory so far comes from the very beginning: the day we closed on the property. Before moving in, the family walked to the back hill, and Emily knew instantly that this was where her house would be. Owning land had been her lifelong dream, and in that moment, she felt it come true.
Elijah’s Perspective
Elijah has quickly become “Mr. Dependable” on the farm. He enjoys caring for the animals, working in the fields, and especially using the tractor. One of his proudest moments came the day his dad trusted him to mow the field all by himself. When asked what he dreams of for the future of the farm, his answer is straightforward and honest: “A house and a new tractor.”
Grayson’s Perspective
Grayson brings a burst of energy and humor to farm life. His favorite part about living here is swimming in the pool, though he also enjoys building alongside his dad. While chores may not always hold his attention, his laughter and playful spirit make even hard work feel lighter. Grayson reminds us that joy is just as important to the farm as sweat and effort.
Lyla’s Perspective
Lyla loves the farm for its “pretty animals,” which she describes as “cool and cute.” Plants, too, hold her attention — “because they’re soft and tickly.” Her tender heart shines most in her devotion to her lizard, Lizzy, and any small insect, spider, snake, or any other animal that crosses her path. Lyla’s compassion for creatures, both great and small, reflects the nurturing spirit we hope A-7 Farms will always carry.
Kyra’s Perspective
Though she’s still little, Kyra brings her own sunshine to the farm. When asked what makes her happiest outside, she smiled shyly and said she enjoys playing, exploring, and being with Mom and Dad. Her words may be few, but her presence is felt deeply — a spitfire with a smile that can melt away any stress. Kyra reminds us that sometimes the smallest voices bring the greatest light.
Family as the Foundation
Each of us plays a different role, but together we are the heartbeat of A-7 Farms. Through faith, laughter, struggles, and dreams, we’re learning that building a farm isn’t just about raising animals or growing crops — it’s about raising a family rooted in something deeper.
As Galatians 6:9 reminds us, “Let us not grow weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” At A-7 Farms, we hold fast to our catchphrase: Planted in faith, reaped in love.
Closing & Teaser
This is the story of the hands and hearts that make A-7 Farms a home. In our next post, we’ll share how those hands went to work — from building coops and planting gardens to the first steps of shaping our land into the vision God has placed on our hearts.
