48 and evolving gardens to food forest in Central California....

Greetings Permie community (newbie here),

Like a lot of people, I’ve been learning more about gardening lately which led me to permaculture.  After watching Geoff Lawton’s video on swales I immediately saw the next path.....I’ve decided to turn my 1.3 acre lake front hilly property and house into a food forest!  💡

A little about me:
I’m 48, I spent all of my life in Kansas until I joined the army at 18. I have never been married and I do not have kids. Most recently I was a wine maker but I have worked a corporate job most of my life, with three, 1 - 2 year sabbaticals mixed in that allowed me to travel to many parts of the world.  I have always worked hard towards my vision but in full disclosure, I have started two businesses that I failed at.....but I learned a ton both times.  I’m fairly introverted and appreciate solitude (in my experience moments of solitude do not have to mean being alone if you are with the right people) but I get along easily in a group.

Over the last few years, I’ve been fortunate enough to have the time and space to meditate (a lot) and reflect on the direction my life was heading.  I went deep down the Theravada Buddhist path and spent the last year+ seriously considering becoming a monk.  For many reasons, it just doesn’t feel like right direction at this time.  Besides me, I have a dog, cat, 4 ducks, and countless squirrels. 🤣

A little about the space:
I “own” (still have a mortgage) a unique 3500 sqft home that has three separate living areas all with their own; entrances, kitchens, bathrooms, decks and living spaces.  I’m not independently wealthy so I rent two of the spaces to offset some of my living expenses and I live “simply” in smallest space.  The property is located in Central California, in between Fresno (40 minutes) and Yosemite (1 hour) and sits at 650 ft elevation. The house is not off the grid but with mindful energy use it can be electric neutral with the roof top solar system.  The space is secluded from freeway road noise and city lights but there are 40 other custom homes in this quiet community.  I know I have a ton to learn which will change things but I’d be happy to share my current plans if you’re interested.  Hint - It includes some swales. 🤔

What am I looking for?  I don’t exactly know....maybe a like minded partner for the journey?  I just felt a need to plant a seed in the permie singles forum soil and see what grows.......

Thanks for taking to time to read this and I wish you the best of luck on your journey!! 🙏

Cool property!  And a very "unique" sounding home, as well.  Best of luck!

as a cal-ex-pat from central cal....bailed 10yrs ago ...but I know friant well. and the climate, and people. if you want to send a note or email (contact in profile) feel free.
best regards on your journey.
patrick.

Thanks Patrick and Matthew for the well wishes!  

Just a quick update....dug the 1st “test” mini swale the other day. I was shocked at how dry the soil was, even 18 inches down, yet how resistant it was to absorbing water. I really think these will make a big difference with the soil on the property especially if I supplement the rain water with a little irrigation. It’s time to get to work on the larger one now!!

Wonderful place and project to place down roots. Im putting out permaculture community feelers too. I’m seeking a “base” in CA. We have a base at a friends farm in WA for a few months of summer. I’d enjoy doing a plant nursery in CA and I also do off grid solar. I have a solarized RV that I’m building a composting toilet in. I also have a apartment in Santa Barbara but am looking for a rural place to park. Can barter or pay cash for space. Older, mellow, retired couple. Thanks and all the best.

Hello! I just found this post searching for food forests in Fresno. We are looking at establishing one on property we are buying. Would love to connect and share ideas if you are still working on this!

I realize it's been ages since you made your post. I found my way to it in a random and unexpected way and time.
I wanted to share that I admire your dreams and all you've done. Your balcony view took my breath away. I am a single woman living in an OR neighborhood dreaming of the peaceful, simple, rural life. I love hard work and fruits of labor. Way to go, making your own dreams into a reality. I hope to do the same. I have ambitious goals and have taken many steps toward achieving them on my own. I do look forward to potentially finding a friend and partner to share it all with. Good luck to you. Should you ever want to talk (even friendship is a highly valued commodity with me), message me? Shelbeeliz@yahoo.com. keep taking great care.