Sarah Bennett and her three children are truly thriving on their farm in rural Michigan. This dedicated mom is capturing the beautiful moments of her kids’ upbringing in a farming environment, and her stunning photos might just make you consider leaving the hustle and bustle of city life behind for good. Sarah, alongside her husband Mark, resides in Marshall, Michigan, with their little ones: Emma, 5, Noah, 3, and Lily, 2. Get ready to feel a twinge of envy for their idyllic lifestyle.
From watering plants to catching frogs and chasing after chickens, the activities may not appear tranquil at first glance, but Bennett’s photography convinces us that a country lifestyle is worth exploring. Documenting her family’s adventures on Instagram, she shares delightful glimpses into their farm life.
“It’s rare to find them indoors during the spring, summer, and fall,” Bennett shared with Modern Family Blog. The couple restricts their children’s screen time to just 30 minutes a day, allowing them to spend the majority of their time outside, discovering and playing in nature.
This time spent away from modern distractions has fostered incredible growth and creativity in her children. “Their imaginations are beyond anything I have ever witnessed,” Bennett remarked. “They can pick up a stick and suddenly, they’re on a grand adventure, battling pirates.”
The farm life seems to be a boon for the parents as well. “In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to become distracted from the present,” Bennett noted. “Living in the countryside eliminates many of those distractions, enabling my husband and I to be fully engaged with our children.”
Yet, like many parents, Bennett and her husband grapple with their own concerns about raising children in such a unique environment. “I worry that growing up on a farm may lead to a sheltered experience, and if not addressed, they could face challenges when they step out into the world,” she explained. To counteract this, they make an effort to expose their kids to different settings through travel, ensuring they have a well-rounded set of experiences.
Bennett is simply grateful for her healthy kids and the time they can spend together, especially considering their family’s journey. Three-year-old Noah has undergone three open-heart surgeries and one gastrointestinal surgery, which often means extended stays in hospitals. “As we drive down our long driveway, I always feel a wave of emotion, grateful we’re home together as a family of five,” she shared. “Pulling up to the house and being greeted by my other children, who can’t contain their joy at seeing their brother, brings a sense of normalcy back to our lives.”
Their “normal” is undeniably unique and special. If relocating to a farm isn’t feasible for you, Bennett offers practical advice for families looking to embrace a slower pace of life. “Explore the outdoors as a family. Lay in the grass with your children, and share in the joy of being outside,” she suggests. “When you express excitement, they’ll mirror that enthusiasm. The more you engage in these activities, the more their love for nature will flourish.”
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In summary, the Bennett family’s farming life is undeniably enriching, filled with adventure and creativity. Their story serves as a reminder of the beauty of nature and the importance of family bonds, even if a complete relocation isn’t in the cards for everyone.