Hi, I’m Julia!
Meet Julia from A Farm to Keep
Finding beauty in the everyday in our homegrown and handmade home.
Before we begin our story, first things first. Social media is a finicky friend, and in 2023 I lost my entire social media account. Over a decade of community building was gone in an instant. What remained? This website and my email newsletter. As long as this website exists, I will continue sharing garden-inspired projects to fill your home with comfort and love that will help you along your natural, slow, and mindful living journey.
The only way you will never miss a new post or video is by joining my email list. I will also send you a copy of my 15-Day Slow Living Reset Challenge! Join below.👇
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Welcome to A Farm to Keep
Discover the treasure trove of knowledge we’ve gathered on our path to embracing natural living. Whether you’re drawn to whipping up soothing skincare serums, crafting with nature’s bounty, or exploring eco-friendly homecare solutions, we invite you to explore alongside us. We dive into the world of DIY craft projects and natural solutions and ultimately savor the quiet joys of a simple, sustainable life.
In 2011 we were navigating parenthood with young children, all while searching for a healthier lifestyle. Our journey began with a desire to protect our little ones and the environment, leading us to create our own cleaning products. That sparked a passion for homegrown goodness, and soon, we were experimenting with natural body care and nourishing our family with the fruits of our first garden.
Today, we find fulfillment in the mindful practices and creativity that fuel our slow-living lifestyle. Nestled in the Sierra Foothills, our farmstead is a canvas for handcrafted comfort and homegrown abundance. Whether you’re a seasoned nature enthusiast or just starting your exploration, we hope you’ll find inspiration, practical guidance, and a warm community within these pages. So, grab a cup of tea, settle in, and let’s embark on this journey together towards a life imbued with simplicity, natural wellness, and quiet joy.
About Me
My story stretches between two coasts, shaped by the rich tapestry of family and history on both sides. Summer days were spent splashing in the serene Severn River in Maryland, celebrating with dazzling fireworks in Pennsylvania, and chasing fireflies under the warm embrace of Virginia nights. These experiences have instilled in me a deep appreciation for aesthetic beauty and the comforting warmth of home.
California also claims a piece of my heart. My childhood unfolded in a charming suburban town bordered by the untamed wilderness that could only ever be California. Despite the geographic distance, both coasts were bound by a constant: breathtaking natural beauty and the unwavering presence of family.
Within our family, I’ve affectionately been dubbed the “health nut.” Fueled by a lifelong curiosity about food’s journey from farm to table and the well-being of our bodies and minds, I embraced vegetarianism for nearly two decades. When celiac disease impacted my husband and children, I embarked on a mission to learn all I could about crafting delicious and nutritious gluten-free meals, nurturing the health of both my family and yours.
Books are my constant companions. While reading wasn’t initially easy, and the pace remains slower than some, I persevere, fueled by an insatiable thirst for knowledge. Perhaps this tenacity offers a glimpse into my spirit.
Creating flows through my veins. I descend from a vibrant lineage of artists, seamstresses, and craftspeople. When my nose isn’t buried in a book or my hands busy in the kitchen, you’ll likely find me engaged in some creative pursuit. It brings me immense joy to share these projects with you.
Over the years, photography has blossomed into another creative love. I’ve had the privilege of contributing columns to Willow and Sage Magazine and Botanical Anthology Magazine, where my photographs and recipes intertwine to tell stories on the plate and through the lens.
This blog is more than just crafts. It reflects my journey, a space to share knowledge, spark inspiration, and build a community around the values that nourish us: embracing natural beauty, fostering creativity, and celebrating the joy of simple living. I invite you to join me on this adventure as we learn, grow, and connect – one page, one recipe, one creation at a time.
