Sometimes growth starts by making space.

This season, we’ve been clearing what’s overgrown, figuring out what stays, and imagining what this land can become. It isn’t the pretty part of the story, but it’s part of it.

We want to share those parts too. Not just what Fifth Kin becomes, but what it takes to build it.

Fuel for the Work

We’re learning that you can’t ask your body to do hard work while giving it inadequate fuel.

I look for diversity wherever I can, especially color. I try to bring the whole rainbow onto our plates and find small opportunities to add a little more nutrition. Chia seeds in a smoothie. Almond slivers on a salad. Another vegetable tossed into dinner. Small choices add up.

Working outside in Northern California has also taught us to pay attention to water, electrolytes, snacks, and even our moods. Sometimes when the energy drops and everyone starts getting a little cranky, the answer isn’t to push harder. It’s time for water and a snack.

Taking care of ourselves is part of doing the work.

Next Up: A Mother-in-Law Suite for Nan

One of our next big projects is especially close to our hearts: building a mother-in-law suite for Nan.

Technically, it’s an ADU, an accessory dwelling unit, but to us, it’s about something much simpler: keeping family close while giving everyone a space of their own.

We’re starting with the plans now, and we’ll be sharing the process as we go, from preparing the land and navigating permits to construction and eventually turning it into a home.

It’s another piece of what Fifth Kin is becoming: a place built around family, connection, and making room for the people we love.

Next issue: we’ll show you where it’s going.