The Bacchus Homestead

Let’s talk about some of the “hard knocks” we have endured along this journey called life. Everyone experiences them, but not everyone deals with them in the same way. We have had our fair share of challenges. The financial, physical, and mental hurdles we faced at the time seemed monumental, but looking back on them now, they appear considerably smaller.

Our financial journey has definitely given us a run for our money, so to speak. We first started this adventure with two salaries, great credit, savings, and extra spending money for materials. We also had dependable vehicles, equipment, and ATVs we needed to haul those materials to build our homestead. For the first four years, we were comfortable.

Everyone thinks that just because you have tenants, you must be rich, given the extra money coming in. In our case, that was not true. The rental income helped offset the mortgage, electric bills, home insurance, property taxes, heat, and the maintenance of a 21-room farmhouse on 8 acres. We had great tenants who followed the rules and paid on time. So, we kept the rental income low—why rock the boat? They paid on time, which was every landlord’s dream come true!

But when they don’t, the tropical storm begins! First was no rental income, which we can describe as the beginning of the storm gathering strength. Second came COVID-19 and the eviction moratorium, introducing a hurricane-level crisis. The third wave brought some relief from the government—a brief eye of the storm. Finally, the fourth wave hit when a medical crisis forced one of us into early retirement – the worst part of the storm!

To relieve the stress, we devised a plan to have the apartments managed by an outside person. During that challenging time, we engaged in a lot of creative financing, and we still do to this day. Five years later, we’re still waiting on a decision from disability, this time with the help of a lawyer. Ample overtime at work for the partner who is able to work helped catch us back up. Our credit scores suffered, but we are still moving forward. We managed to keep both vehicles, although one remained unregistered and uninspected for a couple of years. We filled our pantry with fresh “ugly vegetables” from a local farmer that they couldn’t sell. Collecting aluminum cans and scrap metal from locals has also aided our finances. Selling some of our collectibles helped, too. Building materials have been sourced from friends, other camp owners, and even for free on Facebook Marketplace. Family members have graciously provided materials for birthdays and holidays. Never in my lifetime did I expect to be so excited to receive a roll of insulation for my birthday!

Our lifestyle has changed significantly. We don’t eat out 2-3 times a week anymore—maybe once a month if the budget allows. We haven’t been on vacation in eight years. Instead, we’ve started cooking from scratch more (it’s cheaper and healthier), crafting more, laughing more, playing board and card games, reading more, and listening to nature more.

Survival requires thinking outside the box. Re-create your budget, and reach out to your creditors—most will work with you. Did the thought of quitting cross my mind? Absolutely, on many occasions! Yet, just when we hit a wall, a donation or a sale on Facebook Marketplace would give us the hope to keep pushing.

Celebrate the small wins, like setting daily affirmations or simply finishing one small task. These steps help your dreams manifest. Never give up; there is always a way, even if the road takes longer. Embrace the lessons, discover your hidden strengths, and take comfort in knowing you are in this together.

As always, stay positive, stay focused, and remember that with challenge comes change—and change is good!