Welcome to GROVE LIFE, our farm blog where we share stories from our small-scale farm in Northwest Missouri. My husband Ben and I are learning - sometimes the hard way - how to grow American elderberry, care for bees and other pollinators, and create value-added farm products like handcrafted soaps, natural lip balms, and elderberry juices.

Our goal is to show that sustainable, specialty farming is not only possible, but deeply rewarding when approached with patience, curiosity, and respect for the land. Through this farm blog, we invite readers to follow our journey of turning raw land into a thriving, productive farm while prioritizing conservation and ecological stewardship.

Each season brings new lessons - from planting elderberries and experimenting with regenerative practices to keeping bees and building habitat for native pollinators. We share both successes and setbacks because we believe learning from real-world experiences is just as valuable as celebrating wins.

GROVE LIFE is ideal for anyone interested in American elderberry cultivation, sustainable agriculture, beekeeping, or the joys and challenges of starting a farm from scratch. Our posts highlight seasonal farm life, hands-on learning, and practical tips for soil health, pollinator care, and creating farm-crafted, sustainable products.

By following our blog, you’ll gain insight into what it means to farm responsibly, support pollinators, and cultivate a healthy, resilient landscape. Whether you’re a fellow farmer, gardener, or someone dreaming of life closer to nature, our stories provide inspiration, guidance, and a glimpse into the everyday adventures of small-scale farming.

Subscribe to GROVE LIFE to receive weekly updates, seasonal farm stories, and practical tips for growing American elderberries, caring for bees, and creating sustainable, farm-crafted products - all delivered straight to your inbox.