Foundations of a Dream: Reflecting on 2024 at The Essex Ranch
This time last year, The Essex Ranch didn’t exist. It was just a dream—a hope for a place where we could reconnect with nature, bring our family closer together, and create something meaningful. Now, standing at the edge of the lake, watching the sun paint the sky with shades of gold and pink, it’s hard to believe how much has happened in just twelve months. This year wasn’t just about building walls or planting roots; it was about rediscovering what truly matters and laying the foundation for the life we’ve always dreamed of.
2024: A Year of Milestones
From Dream to Reality
January 6, 2024, was the first step—visiting a piece of land that would soon become The Essex Ranch. By February 2, it was ours. What started as a simple idea for a weekend retreat quickly became something much bigger. We decided not just to build a home but to create a life centered around the land, family, and experiences. Looking back, it’s remarkable how quickly that dream began to take shape.
Building the Ranch
We broke ground in the spring, and the journey has been nothing short of incredible. From pouring the foundation to framing the walls and roof, we’ve watched The Essex Ranch come alive piece by piece. The glass corridors, with their breathtaking views, are taking shape, and the great room—designed as a gathering place for family and friends—is already becoming the heart of the home. These aren’t just architectural features; they’re expressions of the life we’re building here.
Expanding Our Horizons
This year, we also added 175 acres to the property, bringing our total to 300 acres. With Shon and Kevin tirelessly clearing trees and debris, we’ve transformed the land into something even more beautiful than we imagined. Our 8-acre lake underwent a major transformation as well, with a dive team clearing stumps to make it safer and more serene. The addition of a new lake and improved culverts has brought us closer to creating an oasis we can call home.
Lessons from the Land
The Beauty of Slowing Down
One of the greatest gifts of this year has been the chance to reconnect with nature. From watching deer graze under oak trees to marveling at wildflowers that paint the fields in vibrant colors, The Essex Ranch has reminded us to slow down and appreciate life’s simple pleasures. The sunsets and reflections on the lake often feel too beautiful to be real, but they’re a daily reminder of the magic that exists all around us.
Growth and Gratitude
2024 hasn’t been without its challenges. We’ve spent countless weekends traveling back and forth between the city and the ranch, navigating RV hiccups, and working through the unpredictable nature of Texas weather. But with each challenge came growth. I’ve learned to embrace the unexpected, appreciate the process, and find joy in the work. Gratitude has been the defining theme of this year—gratitude for the land, our family, and the opportunity to build something truly special.
Family Highlights
While The Essex Ranch has been the star of our year, 2024 has also been a time of growth and celebration for our family. Austin and Alex tied the knot, Hunter carved out her path with school, and Hannah and Tanner celebrated their engagement. Megan and Angel shared adventures together, while Kayla made strides in doing what makes her happiest. Watching Ladybird and Bunni explore their new surroundings has brought laughter and lightness to our days. Each of these moments has been a reminder of why we started this journey in the first place: to create a space where love and connection could flourish.
Looking Ahead to 2025
As we close the chapter on 2024, we’re filled with excitement for what’s to come. In the coming year, we’ll be breaking ground on the barn and greenhouse, welcoming chickens, mini Highland cows, and even a couple of horses to call The Essex Ranch home. The barn will be a central hub for these animals, designed not only for their care but also to reflect the beauty and functionality we envision for every part of the ranch. Watching these plans come to life will be a joy, and we’re eager to share this next chapter with all of you.
Gratitude and Hope
2024 was a year of firsts—our first full year as ranch owners, our first steps into this lifestyle, and our first glimpse of what’s possible when dreams meet determination. Thank you for being part of this journey with us. Your support, encouragement, and shared excitement mean the world. Here’s to 2025—a year of growth, adventure, and making The Essex Ranch the sanctuary we’ve always imagined.
With gratitude and excitement for the journey ahead,
The Essex Ranch
