When moving out to the middle, it was never a thought that one day I would be connected to a network of people who would have the same love for old houses and in some cases even a bit more. With having been inspired by this community, I decided it would be fun once a month to take you on the “back roads” and give you a glimpse into the lives of those who are out there living their lives on the roads less traveled and leaning into whatever may come their way. It’s my hope that with each trip we take in getting to know someone new, you too will be inspired to cartwheel pass the norm and step into something that makes you feel alive and full of purpose.
Have you ever heard the saying, “You’re the bee’s knees?” If you’re not familiar it means that something is excellent or of high quality and is a most fitting phrase to describe the home and farm of Natalie at The 5 Bees Farm. If you’ve ever wanted to step into a dream but struggled to take that leap, Natalie may just be the person you’ve been waiting to hear from and connect with as she wakes each day with her dreams unfolding just outside her front door.
Natalie, would you share with readers a little bit about yourself?
Hi, I’m Natalie. Two years ago I moved to a historic property with my husband and three children (ages 3, 7, and 10). Along with our 2 dogs and cat, we raise chickens, ducks and honey bees. We hope to one day raise beef cattle and meat birds. In addition to our garden, I would love to add a greenhouse. My husband and I were not raised on farms, but it has always been our dream to raise our children on one.
For those who are drawn to old houses, can you share a bit of your home’s history or how it’s unique?
Our home was built in 1769. Originally a one-story cottage, the second floor was added in the mid 19th century. Close examination of the brick pattern will show the different types of bonding which gives a clue as to the age of the main level and the second level. Our home was originally part of an 817-acre tract and was the hub for commerce in the area. We know there was a black smith shop and bakery on the property. We currently own 25 acres, and a car port now stands on the foundation of the old black smith shop. An addition was added to the back of the house in the late 1800s/early 1900s and another addition in 2000.
What so far is your favorite memory you have made in your old home?
Christmas is a favorite time for us as we decorate extensively and hold many family and friend gatherings.
What is it like starting and managing a hobby farm?
Starting a hobby farm was something my husband and I always talked about. During the pandemic we decided to make our dream a reality and we purchased an older property. Our property was already equipped with a barn, animal stall, older chicken coop (that the previous owners turned into a shed), and electric fencing. It was nice to see that a lot of the things we wanted were already established. We use a lot of our free time to accomplish tasks and jobs around our property. Luckily for us, we enjoy working around the farm and we don’t see it as work. Having a hobby farm requires a lot of upkeep and maintenance, as does maintaining an older home so it is of the utmost importance for us to be good stewards of our home and land.
Can you share with readers why you chose to raise bees?
Raising bees was always something my husband wanted to do. His uncle and cousins raised them, and he always enjoyed learning about bees during family gatherings. After
years of talking about raising bees we finally went for it, and I’m so glad we did. We haven’t been able to harvest honey yet, but we are hoping to this summer.
Ways to connect
Don’t miss out on all that’s to come on The 5 Bees Farm! Connect with Natalie on Instagram by simply clicking here.