I’m Austin and I’m 41 years old and I live in the Appalachian Mountains of Virginia. I’m a software engineer and a farmer. 2 years ago, I purchase a beautiful 540-acre farm, where I now live. I raise sheep and will be starting a my own cow/calf herd in the spring and I’m also experimenting with agroforestry. I have been interested in homesteading and agriculture for many years. Before I bought my farm I lived in a suburban area where I learned and practiced many homesteading and DIY skills. My inspiration for my farming adventure is difficult to explain because there are many motivations. Certainly, the beauty of rural landscapes and nature is one of the attractions. I love the sight of cattle peacefully grazing lush green pastures, majestic old trees, and old barns. I love the rural landscapes depicted in Eric Sloane’s books. Another motivation is the search for a peace in my surroundings. At my farm, I can pretend the world and its troubles are far away. I like quiet places. I love my sheep and I love taking care of them so definitely working with animals is another motivation. Farming isn’t just about one skill, it’s huge set of related skills and I that appeals to me. I love the idea of restoring ecosystems and improving farmland both in terms of fertility and biological diversity. I imagine my farm as being a beautiful setting for a love story and perfect place to raise a family. I am a Christian and I believe continual self-improvement is very important.
I love learning for the sake of learning and for practical use. I have a wide range of interests. Some of my interests include woodworking, metalworking, alternative energy, horticulture, forestry, animal husbandry, agriculture, machinery, agrarianism, minimalism, rural culture, libertarianism, permaculture, biology, American history, primitive skills, psychology, philosophy.
I would like to share my farming adventure with someone. I’m looking for my best friend. I think having some shared interests and values are essential. Feel free to send me a private message if you would like to know more.
Favorite books:
The Bible
12 Rules for Life – Jordan Peterson
Non-violent Communication: A Language of Life – Marshall B. Rosenberg
Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can't Stop Talking – Susan Cain
Letter to a Young Farmer – Gene Logsdon
An Age of Barns – Eric Sloane
Polyface Designs – Joel Salatin
