14/03/2025
Living Simple and Close to Nature: A Day on Our Farm in the Free State
Nestled in the heart of the Free State, our farm is a testament to simplicity, hard work, and family. Our farmhouse, a charming sandstone house built in the 1870s, stands as a quiet reminder of a life that has withstood the test of time. With no electricity, no network, and the soft glow of candlelight lighting our evenings, we’ve embraced a lifestyle that celebrates living close to nature, free from the distractions of modern life.
When my husband and I were looking for a farm before starting a family, we searched for over 20 properties before we found the one that spoke to us. The house had been uninhabited for over 50 years, but its history called out to us. It was here that we envisioned our children growing up, learning the values of hard work, and becoming part-time farmers themselves, all while our permanent home remained in Johannesburg.
Farm-to-Table Flavors: What We Serve in Our Food Bowls
Life on the farm is all about simplicity, and our food reflects that. With fresh, homegrown ingredients, we love to serve up dishes that are both comforting and delicious. A summer salad, vibrant with vegetables harvested from our garden, is often accompanied by roasted veggies, lovingly prepared over an open fire. And, of course, a classic South African braai (barbecue) brings our family together, where we enjoy tender cuts of meat and hearty conversation under the open sky.
Each meal is a celebration of our farm’s bounty—a true farm-to-table experience that highlights the freshness of what we grow and raise ourselves.
A Place to Be Together
More than just a place to work, our farm is where memories are made. Our children have grown up running through the fields, learning from the land, and participating in farm life—experiences that have shaped who they are today. Though we divide our time between the farm and Johannesburg, this place is where we feel most at home. It’s not just land—it’s part of our family’s story, and it will continue to be a place where we gather, celebrate, and grow.
The images featured in this issue of Leef Magazine capture the essence of our farm and the memories we’ve made here. From the wide-open skies to the rustic beauty of the farmhouse, each photograph tells a story of a simpler, more grounded way of life. We hope these photos invite you to take a moment to step into our world and appreciate the beauty that surrounds us.
For those who seek inspiration in the beauty of nature, the joy of food made with love, and the simplicity of a life lived close to the earth, we invite you to explore more in Leef Magazine. This issue is more than just a collection of photos—it’s a glimpse into the heart of our family and our farm.