Who we are: Hello everyone. We are a legally married, mature (50’s-70s) male couple living in rural North Mississippi leading an unpretentious life on a lovely 50 acre farmstead. The debt free property has open pastureland, fruit and berry plantings, some wooded areas, natural springs and a recently rejuvenated 2 acre
pond. The soil is fertile and has in the past supported a now fallow but historically generous market garden operation that included poultry. Infrastructure is in place including
irrigation, machinery (2 tractors and implements) as well as outbuildings to include a vegetable washing station and small
greenhouse. The surrounding community is diverse racially and the county is probably considered “poor”. The road in front of my house has seen an increase in traffic over the past 20 years but the area is still, in general, peaceful. I’ve had no issues with crime but occasionally somebody will shoot someone just like everywhere else in America today. There are no rainbow flags flying here. We mind our own business, understand where we live, and are left alone.
Why I’m posting: I’m losing my partner to Alzheimers. Jim is currently in stage 5-6. I have a background in medicine and have committed to not institutionalizing my spouse. That being said, the upkeep of the property and the care demands are exceeding my capacity to maintain.
What I’m offering: I’m willing to entertain the idea of bringing onto the property an individual or couple who have an interest in simple living and agriculture in exchange for assistance in property upkeep and possibly some occasional direct care in support of my spouse. I’m willing to assist financially in the placement of a tiny home or other living structure that the prospective individual (s) might desire. The existing infrastructure would be available for use and redevelopment of whatever agricultural endeavors we as a party deem fit. Offering a stipend for the right agreement isn’t out of the question.
Who’s the best fit: I’m going to probably sound like a cynical old fart but folks interested in this possibility will have to be resourceful. In other words, you’ll need to have some basic skills, some grit, and actually know how to do something. Simply having read some back issues of Countryside
magazine and daydreaming after watching YouTube blogs on the rural lifestyle yet never having gotten dirt under your nails will NOT cut it. Some carpentry, mechanical or electrical skills as well as some hands on agricultural
experience would be ideal. In short, while I’m willing to assist financially getting you settled, I don’t need another babysitting job. You’ll need to be kind, thoughtful, open minded, generous and accepting. You can expect the same in return.
I’m happy to engage any further questions regarding this possibility and I appreciate the consideration.