Our Journey to Pine & Bloom: How It All Began
If you had told me a few years ago that we’d pack up everything we owned, leave the familiar comfort of Wisconsin—where we were born and raised—and start over on 17 acres in the rolling hills of Tennessee, I probably would’ve laughed. And yet, here we are: starting a farm in Tennessee and living a dream we didn’t even fully realize we had.
The Dream That Started It All
For as long as I can remember, I’ve loved wide-open spaces, quiet mornings, and the feeling of being connected to nature. But life had us in Wisconsin, busy with the day-to-day and tied to routines that felt comfortable… until they didn’t. Wisconsin’s culture is fast-paced, and the constant hustle left us stressed. We knew we needed a slower, calmer lifestyle—for both our health and our family.
Somewhere along the way, we realized we wanted more than comfort—we wanted purpose, freedom, and a lifestyle that allowed us to slow down and breathe again. People asked us all the time, “Why are you moving down there?” The answer wasn’t simple; there were many factors behind this big move over 700 miles away.
We wanted our kids to grow up immersed in nature. We wanted more animals roaming the yard—something our property in Wisconsin couldn’t accommodate. And we craved sunsets you simply can’t capture with a camera.
That dream of simple living and a homestead lifestyle started to take root in our hearts. So we asked ourselves: What would life look like if we embraced a slower, more peaceful way of life in the South?
Why Tennessee?
As we searched for the perfect place to start our homestead, Tennessee kept calling our name. The mild winters, lush green hills, and welcoming homestead community made it feel like the perfect fit for our family.
After months of searching, we found it: 17.5 acres of Tennessee farmland, complete with a hill, towering pines, and endless potential. The only challenge? This property was off-grid—no utilities available.
Despite the uncertainties, we took the leap, trusting it would all work out.
The Leap of Faith
Leaving Wisconsin wasn’t easy. It meant saying goodbye to friends, family, and everything familiar. But deep down, we knew this was right for us. So, we packed up, loaded the kids, and made the drive south with a mix of excitement and nerves.
Standing on our very own hill, looking out at the swaying pines, we felt an overwhelming sense of peace. This wasn’t just land—it was a promise of what could be.
What Pine & Bloom Means to Us
The name Pine & Bloom represents everything we love about this place. The pines stand tall and strong, rooted deep—just like we hope to be in this new season of life. The bloom represents growth, beauty, and the flower business we’re so excited to build here on the farm. Together, the name captures both the strength of our land and the colorful, vibrant life we’re creating.
Our plans are big: raising cattle, goats, ducks, and chickens, growing flowers and produce, and creating a space that feels alive with possibility. We’re learning as we go, making mistakes, and finding joy in the simplest moments—like a quiet sunrise or the sound of rain on the roof.
The Journey Ahead
This is just the beginning of our homestead journey in Tennessee. We’re excited to share it all with you—the wins, the struggles, the muddy boots, and the blooming fields. If you’ve ever dreamed of starting a homestead, creating a small farm, or simply enjoy stories of rural living, you’re in the right place.
Thank you for coming along on this adventure. Here’s to roots, growth, and all the life that happens in between.
Until next time,
Ashley @ Life at Pine & Bloom
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