The Ferlita Farm: A Homestead Built with Love, Faith, and Dedication

Introduction

The Ferlita farm nestled in the serene countryside of Ashland, Alabama, the Ferlita farm is a shining example of sustainable living, community spirit, and determination. Lilian and Stephen Ferlita, along with their family, have built a homestead that not only sustains their way of life but also inspires their neighbors and friends. From cultivating a rich variety of fruits and vegetables to raising livestock and cooking homemade meals, the Ferlita family embodies the principles of self-sufficiency and intentional living.

Their journey from Ocala, Florida, to the lush fields of Ashland wasn’t easy, but their unwavering faith and dedication carried them through. Today, their farm stands as a testament to what can be achieved with vision, hard work, and love.

The Journey to Ashland

The Ferlita family’s story began in Ocala, Florida, where they raised their two children. As their children grew older, Lilian and Stephen felt called to live a simpler, more sustainable lifestyle. After finding a plot of land in Ashland, they made the bold decision to build their homestead from scratch.

For years, the Ferlitas made frequent trips between Ocala and Ashland, hauling materials and dedicating their weekends and holidays to constructing their home. With some hired contractors, they mostly relied on their own skills and the help of close friends and family. The process was long and challenging, but it brought them closer together as a family. Their dream finally became a reality when they moved into their completed home nine years ago, surrounded by the land they had worked so hard to prepare.

A Bounty of Homegrown Produce

The Ferlita farm is a paradise for those who appreciate fresh, homegrown food. Lilian and Stephen have transformed their land into a thriving garden that produces a wide array of fruits, vegetables, and herbs. Their meticulous care and organic practices ensure that every harvest is bountiful and nutrient-rich.

• Vegetables: The Ferlitas grow a variety of staples, including tomatoes, asparagus, radishes, squash, lettuces, collards, and potatoes. Each crop is carefully tended, with attention paid to the health of the soil and the use of natural compost to enrich it.
• Fruits: Their farm boasts fruit trees laden with figs, peaches, plums, and apples. Additionally, their strawberry patch, blueberries and raspberries provide a sweet treat for the family and visitors alike.

Each meal prepared in the Ferlita household features ingredients straight from their garden. From crisp salads made with freshly picked lettuce and radishes to warm, comforting dishes featuring squash and potatoes, the farm’s produce is the centerpiece of their home-cooked meals.

Livestock and Sustainability

In addition to their garden, the Ferlitas raise a variety of livestock that contribute to the farm’s self-sufficiency. Their dedication to ethical and sustainable farming practices ensures that their animals are well cared for and their farm remains productive.

• Chickens: The family raises and culls chickens, which provide both eggs and meat. Their coop is spacious and clean, allowing the birds to roam freely and live healthy lives.
• Ducks and Guineas: Ducks and guinea fowl roam the property, contributing to pest control and adding to the diversity of the farm’s ecosystem.
• Cows: The Ferlitas’ cows are not just a source of dairy and meat but also play a vital role in maintaining the farm’s sustainability by providing natural fertilizer for the fields.

The family’s commitment to raising their own livestock extends to their kitchen, where Lilian transforms fresh eggs, milk, and meat into delicious, wholesome meals. Every dish is a labor of love, made from scratch and bursting with flavor.

A Homestead Built with Purpose

Building their homestead was a labor-intensive process that required immense effort and perseverance. Traveling back and forth from Ocala to Ashland was no small feat, but the Ferlitas approached the challenge with determination and faith.

Each brick, plank, and nail represents the love and effort they poured into their home. Today, their house is not just a shelter but a sanctuary, surrounded by the fruits of their labor and the beauty of nature. The farm’s layout reflects their thoughtful planning, with gardens, pastures, and animal pens arranged to maximize efficiency and harmony.

Cooking at Home: A Celebration of Farm-to-Table Living

One of the hallmarks of the Ferlita lifestyle is their commitment to cooking all their meals at home. Unless they are traveling, every dish is prepared using ingredients from their garden and livestock. This farm-to-table approach not only ensures the highest quality and freshness but also strengthens the family’s bond as they work together to create nourishing meals.

Lilian, as well as her husband Stephen, exceptional home cooks, use their creativity and skill to transform simple ingredients into extraordinary dishes. Their recipes often feature the vibrant flavors of their farm-fresh produce, complemented by herbs grown just steps from the kitchen door. From hearty vegetable stews to freshly baked fruit pies, every meal is a testament to the joys of self-sufficiency.

Inspiring the Community

The Ferlitas’ dedication to their homestead has not gone unnoticed by their family, friends, neighbors and community. Their farm has become a source of inspiration for others seeking to live more sustainably. Friends often come to learn about gardening techniques, livestock care, and the art of self-sufficiency.

In addition to sharing their knowledge, the Ferlitas actively contribute to the well-being of their community. They regularly share their surplus produce and eggs with neighbors, fostering a spirit of generosity and connection. Their story serves as a powerful reminder that hard work, faith, and a commitment to sustainability can create a meaningful and fulfilling life.

The Legacy of the Ferlita Farm

As the Ferlitas continue to nurture their land and grow their farm, they remain committed to living in harmony with nature and sharing their journey with others. Their homestead is more than just a place to live; it is a testament to the values of resilience, family, and community.

Lilian and Stephen’s story is a shining example of what can be achieved through perseverance and passion. Their farm is not just a source of sustenance but also a place where dreams are cultivated and shared. For those who aspire to live closer to the land and embrace a simpler way of life, the Ferlita farm stands as a beacon of hope and inspiration.

Conclusion

The Ferlita farm is a true labor of love, built with the hands and hearts of a family dedicated to sustainability and self-reliance. From their lush gardens to their thriving livestock, Lilian and Stephen have created a homestead that nourishes not only their bodies but also their souls. Their journey from Ocala to Ashland is a story of determination, faith, and the transformative power of hard work.

For anyone seeking inspiration to pursue a sustainable lifestyle, the Ferlita family’s farm offers a roadmap to success and fulfillment. With their unwavering commitment to living off the land and supporting their community, the Ferlitas have created a legacy that will continue to inspire for generations to come.