Issue link: https://viewer.e-digitaledition.com/i/1368583
There are some things that only the great outdoors can provide. Recreational activities like camping, hunting, and gardening offer reprieve from the modern American life that leaves us over-worked and isolated, especially after a year like 2020 that had most of us computer bound in a frenzy of video conferences and online schooling. It seems more and more people are looking for fresh air and beautiful landscapes that give the body, mind, and spirit the permission to relax and connect with nature. Last year, over 50 million Americans went fishing. Three million were first-timers 1 . This past June, camping sales increased 31% from June 2019 2 . Its clear people now more than ever are searching to make connections outdoors. Rural 1 st understands the importance of creating connections. As the leader in rural lending, they work with purpose to secure the future of the rural communities. Rural 1 st helps avid fishermen own their own prized fishing holes, as well as city dwellers looking to reclaim their roots. With over 100 years of rural lending experience, Rural 1 st not only has a deep understanding of the rural living lifestyle, they advocate for it. Rural 1 st Team Member, Kathryn Greenfield, knows first-hand the reward of owning land. Four years ago, she and her husband purchased farmland in Strawberry Plains, TN, and moved from West Nashville. They built a home and a barn on their 58-acres to share with their three dogs, four horses, and 21 chickens. "It's a constant labor of love," says Greenfield, who is no stranger to agriculture, having grown up on a grain and cattle farm in Central Ohio. "Typically, when you hear the word 'farm,' you think production or money-making business. We don't make money," she laughs, "This is a hobby farm." Greenfield says the most money they make in a year is $900 in egg sales, which goes directly back into the farm. She and her husband keep full- time jobs to support what she calls their "farming habit." Greenfield says some of the most enjoyable moments are getting off work and "just enjoying God's creation," training her show horses, and building relationships with her neighbors. "When you live in a rural area, you really get to know your neighbors. You kind of depend on each other to lend a helping hand," she says. She also feels grounded in her property. "We don't really GET BACK TO WHAT MATTERS - By Katie Molck