Happy Farmily

It’s been 248 years since America gained full independence from Britain. Like many others, we always enjoy celebrating the 4th of July with family and friends. It’s on these days that we once again realize how fortunate we are to experience true freedom. Unfortunately, for many others around the world, this is not the case.

In this episode, we get a bit more personal, with Annette sharing how her parents lost their freedom in Cuba and years later gained it again when they moved to the USA. Their story has significantly impacted our lives and how we p...

Is sunlight your new best friend or a hidden danger? After an experiment during a golf trip, Jared was even more convinced that sunshine may not be the enemy we all think it is…. In this episode, we dive deep into the wonderful role of sunlight in our health and well-being.

We share why proper sun exposure can be more beneficial than we’ve been led to believe, offering many benefits.

We’ll also discuss practical tips for maximizing the benefits of sunlight, such as avoiding sunscreen (yup, you read that right) and sunglasses at certai...

Last month, we talked about the secrets (or not) of being a supermom. This time, it’s the dad’s turn!

Being a dad is like stepping into the ultimate superhero role. Your kids see you as the one who can fix anything and knows everything. While the roles of men and women have been evolving, allowing men to play a bigger part in raising their kids, being a super dad involves much more than just showing up.

Join us for a fun and insightful chat as Jared shares his experiences as a dad to our...

Filled with delicious food, family time, and fun activities like hiking, Saturdays, aka Sabbaths, were the norm in both our families. Today, we continue this tradition with our daughter, emphasizing the importance of disconnecting from our hectic lives. The joy, peace, and strength we gain from observing the Sabbath prepare us to face the upcoming week with renewed vigor.

In this episode, we delve into how the Sabbath has enriched our lives and the scientifically proven benefits of treating the Sabbath as a weekly vacation. Rigorous studies show that regular downtime significantly reduces stress, lowers cortisol levels...

It’s "Blooming Science!" In this episode, we dive into the fascinating world of flowers and their remarkable ability to enhance our well-being and emotions. Whether you're a flower enthusiast or just curious about how nature can improve your day-to-day life, you're in the right place.

Imagine walking into a room and feeling an instant lift in your spirits just because of a beautiful bouquet—there’s actual science behind that magical moment, friend. From boosting your mood to sparking creativity, flowers have a powerful impact on our lives.

Whether it’s the bouquet that made you...

Have you ever tasted something as delicious as a strawberry milkshake made with real, freshly plucked, juicy, in-season strawberries?? Well, let us tell you, friend, it is SO GOOD.

After a visit to a strawberry farm, Jared and Ava decided to turn fresh strawberries into the best milkshakes we've ever tasted! This experience once again reminded us of the profound difference in taste and quality when enjoying in-season produce.

Moving to the countryside transformed our lifestyle and diet, inspiring us to grow our own veggies and embrace local, seasonal foods. Seasonal eating means enjoying fruits...

85% of Americans struggle with self-doubt, the feeling that they don't feel enough about some aspect of their lives or themselves. Are you part of this 85%? Do you have an inner critical voice that holds you back or makes you believe you are not good enough? We sure do!

In this podcast episode, we journey into the depths of self-criticism, a challenge that impacts the lives of so many, including us. We'll explore how self-doubt and anxiety can cast a shadow over our mental and physical well-being.

We share our personal stories of wrestling with our...

Let’s talk about the myth of the Supermom. You know, that idea of a mother who effortlessly manages to juggle work, family, and home with perfection, never showing a hint of stress or fatigue. But let's be real, can any of us truly answer yes to all those criteria?

The truth is, there's no such thing as a superhero mother. No Supermom. Sure, we might see glimpses of this ideal in movies, fairy tales, or on social media, but it's just that—a fleeting image, not reality.

So, what does it take to be a "S...

In this episode, we uncover the fascinating world of dopamine and its profound impact on our relationships. We explore the intricate workings of the brain's dopamine circuits—the desire circuit and the control circuit—and how they shape our desires, pursuits, and connections with others.

Discover how the thrill of anticipation can lead to addiction (the wrong kind), and explore the most efficient dopamine triggers that can easily ensnare us. From alcohol and drugs to video games and social media, we uncover the surprising culprits behind our cravings.

We also reveal the secrets to maintaining the...

In this week's episode, we’re going old-school and talking about something close to Annette’s heart: the art of canning food!

I've developed a passion for this age-old tradition, inspired by memories of my Aunt Marty's West Virginia home, where shelves were adorned with rows of canned goods. What began as a childhood fascination has evolved into a cornerstone of my homesteading lifestyle, bringing joy and a sense of connection to the food I grow.

Despite the convenience of store-bought options, home canning is a testament to our desire for freshness, flavor, food security, and...

So, a while back, I picked up this book called "Breath" by James Nestor, and let me tell you, it totally took my breath away😏 . Picture this: I'm on a plane next to Annette, trying out these breathing techniques from the book, and I must've looked like a complete lunatic! But you know what? I felt like I was floating on cloud nine, realizing in just five minutes that I'd been breathing all wrong my entire life.

Nestor's book dives deep into the art of breathing, showing how it's not just about staying alive but about living hea...

As a married couple, we have always believed in maintaining our independence, nurturing our own interests, and, yes, having our own circle of friends. Don't get us wrong, our marriage is our priority, but we've seen firsthand how friendships outside of it can add so much richness to our lives.

Friendships can have a major impact on your health and well-being. And not just your own well-being but the well-being of your marriage or romantic relationship.

Your spouse will not always meet all of your needs. It is important to try to get y...

It's no secret that we love gardening. It's our thing. And we're so passionate about it that we want it to become everyone's thing, too.

Because let us tell you, friend, once you get dirt under those nails and bite into a juicy, flavorsome homegrown tomato, there is no going back!

In our latest episode, we uncover the secrets of how getting your hands in the soil can elevate your life in ways you never imagined. From reducing stress to boosting brain health, gardening isn't just about growing plants; it's about nurturing your w...

As parents, one of the unexpected challenges (but also a blessing!) we face is the constant battle for bed space with our little girl, Ava. And let's not forget about Oscar, our cat, who always manages to find his way into the mix.

Naturally, it affects one’s sleep… And sleep is more than just catching some Z's—it's about tapping into the rejuvenating power of quality sleep.

Join us as we explore why sleep is crucial for our overall well-being, explore the different sleep cycles and the science behind REM sleep, and share practical tips f...

In a world where we invest a significant portion of our lives at work, finding fulfillment in our careers is essential for overall happiness and well-being. But it can be a tough one to achieve…

Let’s be honest: work is always going to be work. Wouldn’t we all love to be able to work only for two hours a week and do something we love the rest of the time, like petting donkeys?!

Did you know that only 20% of all US employees are passionate about their jobs?

That is very disheartening. 

Wh...

When or where should you save or splurge? What do you value enough to spend your hard-earned cash on?

This is one tiff or debate that often surfaces in the Thurmon household. And we know we are not the only couple with differing opinions regarding what to spend money on!

For me (Jared), I hate buying new clothes. I am perfectly happy wearing 20-year-old T-shirts with holes in them. But when I dine out, I have no issue splurging on 5 appetizers and two to three dishes just to try new things. 

I, Annette, h...

This topic has been on our minds lately: the art of knowing when to let go.

When we first ventured into farm life, we were bursting with excitement and ambition, eager to take on everything that came our way. One of our dreams? Alpacas. I mean, who could resist those adorable, fluffy creatures? So, naturally, we got some! But, as we soon discovered, raising alpacas isn't all sunshine and rainbows. 

Despite having a top-notch vet by our side, we faced heartbreak as several of our alpacas fell ill and passed away, leaving one, Opal, alone. I...

City life versus country living - which reigns supreme?

Of course, it comes down to personal preference, but in our very biased opinion ;-), country living wins by a long shot!

As two former city dwellers turned countryside enthusiasts, a few years ago, we swapped bustling streets for serene landscapes and skyscrapers for endless azure skies.

Did you know that since 9/11 and the COVID pandemic, there's been a surge in Americans moving to rural areas, seeking refuge from urban chaos? With nearly half of Americans now preferring small-town charm over city hustle, it's...

Have you ever been dragged into something reluctantly, only to come out completely blown away?

Well, that's exactly what happened to me (Annette) when Jared convinced me to attend this mysterious “retreat” up in Canada, which he attended last year. I was skeptical, to say the least, but let me tell you, it was a game-changer!

In our latest episode, we spill the beans (well, sort of!) on this life-altering experience and unpack the importance of self-discovery. We reflect on how the retreat forced us to give ourselves the time we deserve and understand our deep...

Sustaining romance and passion can be a formidable challenge, right?! Let's face it: we're not teenagers anymore, and the honeymoon phase fades away as life gets in the way.

Life's challenges, career demands, and external stressors can temporarily dampen the flames. Anyone's got a headache? ;-)

So, how do you keep the magic alive in a long-term relationship? How can you keep things passionate and romantic like those very first days?

Well, we’ve got some tips to ignite that spark and make your hearts flutter again. 

In this episode, you’ll di...

Ever wondered why some gestures make your heart flutter while others seem to miss the mark? 

Well, the secret to more flutters is called your preferred love language.

Turns out, being each other’s servants is what makes both of our hearts flutter! 

In this episode, we unravel the secrets behind Gary Chapman's renowned concept of the five love languages and explore how understanding these languages can transform your relationship.

You’ll discover practical strategies for unveiling your own love language and becoming an emotional detective by understanding your partner's preferences.

Y...

#couplegoals

Nope, we’re not talking about the perfect Instagram couple that seems to have everything figured out.

We’re talking about the mom who wants to lose weight and the dad who wants to save money and how they can align these individual goals and also create joint goals.

More like #settinggoalsasacouple

If you feel your couple or individual goals have been misaligned lately or have no joint relationship goals, this episode is for you! 

Goal setting as a couple is a powerful tool for personal and relational growt...

New year, new beginnings. We have all heard this saying a thousand times before.

But while we all go into the new year with new aspirations, dreams, and goals, are we truly committed to them? Do we really know what gets us out of bed each morning, propelling us into the day with purpose and enthusiasm? Are we prepared to do what it takes to reach our goals?

When we started our homestead journey, this is how it went for us: Yeah, we moved to a farm, we can do all these wonderful things! Jared...

Welcome to our new yet not-so-new podcast!

Let’s rewind it a bit, shall we?

It all started with two city lovers - a risk-taker entrepreneur and a more conservative rapid-response nurse (although she did venture into the exciting world of designing wedding gowns!)

They fell deeply in love, pursued all sorts of careers and business ventures, got married, yearned for a slower pace of life, started searching for the perfect piece of land, waited six years to find one, got pregnant soon after, and started their podcast a week after their little gi...

Azure Farm is located just outside the tiny town of Adairsville, Georgia -  about an hour north of Atlanta.  We moved out here and started our farm in pursuit of a more simple lifestyle. We wanted to get back to the basics. The rat race and the hustle and bustle were quickly replaced by a love for gardening, harvesting food, quiet evenings with the sounds of crickets, and sunny azure sky days. We hope sharing peeks into our daily lives can inspire you to live more of your life outdoors and ultimately to slow down. We are passionate that we...

Azure Farm is located just outside the tiny town of Adairsville, Georgia -  about an hour north of Atlanta.  We moved out here and started our farm in pursuit of a more simple lifestyle. We wanted to get back to the basics. The rat race and the hustle and bustle were quickly replaced by a love for gardening, harvesting food, quiet evenings with the sounds of crickets, and sunny azure sky days. We hope sharing peeks into our daily lives can inspire you to live more of your life outdoors and ultimately to slow down. We are passionate that we...

How many of us have friends that can just tell it like it is and we know they love us in doing so? Its hard to find. What is the art of being honest but still being kind along the way? Join us as we discuss. Azure Farm is located just outside the tiny town of Adairsville, Georgia - about an hour north of Atlanta. We moved out here and started our farm in pursuit of a more simple lifestyle. We wanted to get back to the basics. The rat race and the hustle and bustle were quickly replaced by...

Azure Farm is located just outside the tiny town of Adairsville, Georgia -  about an hour north of Atlanta.  We moved out here and started our farm in pursuit of a more simple lifestyle. We wanted to get back to the basics. The rat race and the hustle and bustle were quickly replaced by a love for gardening, harvesting food, quiet evenings with the sounds of crickets, and sunny azure sky days. We hope sharing peeks into our daily lives can inspire you to live more of your life outdoors and ultimately to slow down. We are passionate that we...

Azure Farm is located just outside the tiny town of Adairsville, Georgia -  about an hour north of Atlanta.  We moved out here and started our farm in pursuit of a more simple lifestyle. We wanted to get back to the basics. The rat race and the hustle and bustle were quickly replaced by a love for gardening, harvesting food, quiet evenings with the sounds of crickets, and sunny azure sky days. We hope sharing peeks into our daily lives can inspire you to live more of your life outdoors and ultimately to slow down. We are passionate that we...

Azure Farm is located just outside the tiny town of Adairsville, Georgia -  about an hour north of Atlanta.  We moved out here and started our farm in pursuit of a more simple lifestyle. We wanted to get back to the basics. The rat race and the hustle and bustle were quickly replaced by a love for gardening, harvesting food, quiet evenings with the sounds of crickets, and sunny azure sky days. We hope sharing peeks into our daily lives can inspire you to live more of your life outdoors and ultimately to slow down. We are passionate that we...

Azure Farm is located just outside the tiny town of Adairsville, Georgia -  about an hour north of Atlanta.  We moved out here and started our farm in pursuit of a more simple lifestyle. We wanted to get back to the basics. The rat race and the hustle and bustle were quickly replaced by a love for gardening, harvesting food, quiet evenings with the sounds of crickets, and sunny azure sky days. We hope sharing peeks into our daily lives can inspire you to live more of your life outdoors and ultimately to slow down. We are passionate that we...

Here is a link to the blog on integrating animals on your farm - https://www.azurefarmlife.com/farm-blog/how-to-integrate-new-animals-on-your-farm-or-homestead

How to Raise Ducks podcast - https://open.spotify.com/episode/2LeUanux06TDFh8i24jX8q?si=p5xn4ZB3QJeXAp08atLyzw

Azure Farm is located just outside the tiny town of Adairsville, Georgia -  about an hour north of Atlanta.  We moved out here and started our farm in pursuit of a more simple lifestyle. We wanted to get back to the basics. The rat race and the hustle and bustle were quickly replaced by...

Azure Farm is located just outside the tiny town of Adairsville, Georgia -  about an hour north of Atlanta.  We moved out here and started our farm in pursuit of a more simple lifestyle. We wanted to get back to the basics. The rat race and the hustle and bustle were quickly replaced by a love for gardening, harvesting food, quiet evenings with the sounds of crickets, and sunny azure sky days. We hope sharing peeks into our daily lives can inspire you to live more of your life outdoors and ultimately to slow down. We are passionate that we...

Azure Farm is located just outside the tiny town of Adairsville, Georgia -  about an hour north of Atlanta.  We moved out here and started our farm in pursuit of a more simple lifestyle. We wanted to get back to the basics. The rat race and the hustle and bustle were quickly replaced by a love for gardening, harvesting food, quiet evenings with the sounds of crickets, and sunny azure sky days. We hope sharing peeks into our daily lives can inspire you to live more of your life outdoors and ultimately to slow down. We are passionate that we...

Azure Farm is located just outside the tiny town of Adairsville, Georgia -  about an hour north of Atlanta.  We moved out here and started our farm in pursuit of a more simple lifestyle. We wanted to get back to the basics. The rat race and the hustle and bustle were quickly replaced by a love for gardening, harvesting food, quiet evenings with the sounds of crickets, and sunny azure sky days. We hope sharing peeks into our daily lives can inspire you to live more of your life outdoors and ultimately to slow down. We are passionate that we...

Here is a link to the book - https://www.amazon.com/Simple-Country-Living-Techniques-Recipes/dp/0760385408

Azure Farm is located just outside the tiny town of Adairsville, Georgia about an hour north of Atlanta.  We moved out here and started our farm in pursuit of a more simple lifestyle. We wanted to get back to the basics. The rat race hustle and bustle was quickly replaced by a love for gardening, harvesting food, quiet evenings with the sounds of crickets, and sunny azure sky days. We hope sharing peeks into our daily lives can inspire you to live more o...

We just launched a how to raise ducklings workshop - https://www.livehomegrown.com/programs/howtoraiseduckllings?categoryId=111400&permalink=azure-farm-ducks-video-01-introduction-b2f250

You can also learn more about raising ducklings on our website - https://www.azurefarmlife.com/farm-blog/how-to-raise-happy-ducks

Azure Farm is located just outside the tiny town of Adairsville, Georgia about an hour north of Atlanta.  We moved out here and started our farm in pursuit of a more simple lifestyle. We wanted to get back to the basics. The rat race hustle and bustle was quickly replaced by a love for gardening, harvesting f...

Here's a link we promised - https://www.azurefarmlife.com/farm-blog/caring-for-chickens-101

Azure Farm is located just outside the tiny town of Adairsville, Georgia about an hour north of Atlanta.  We moved out here and started our farm in pursuit of a more simple lifestyle. We wanted to get back to the basics. The rat race hustle and bustle was quickly replaced by a love for gardening, harvesting food, quiet evenings with the sounds of crickets, and sunny azure sky days. We hope sharing peeks into our daily lives can inspire you to live more of your l...

Here is a link to the Homemakers Conference - https://www.homemakerconference.com

Azure Farm is located just outside the tiny town of Adairsville, Georgia about an hour north of Atlanta.  We moved out here and started our farm in pursuit of a more simple lifestyle. We wanted to get back to the basics. The rat race hustle and bustle was quickly replaced by a love for gardening, harvesting food, quiet evenings with the sounds of crickets, and sunny azure sky days. We hope sharing peeks into our daily lives can inspire you to live mo...

Azure Farm is located just outside the tiny town of Adairsville, Georgia about an hour north of Atlanta.  We moved out here and started our farm in pursuit of a more simple lifestyle. We wanted to get back to the basics. The rat race hustle and bustle was quickly replaced by a love for gardening, harvesting food, quiet evenings with the sounds of crickets, and sunny azure sky days. We hope sharing peeks into our daily lives can inspire you to live more of your life outdoors and to ultimately slow down. We are passionate that we all must s...