Dan and I embarked on our homestead adventure nearly two years ago, leaving behind the busy life of Southern California for the serene beauty of the White Mountains in Arizona. As we settled into our off-grid ranch build, a labor of love still in progress, we were joined by our children and grandchildren, each eager to explore the vast expanse of our new property.
Little did we know that our family would soon become enthralled with the world of rockhounding. Our land, rich with geological wonders, called us to delve into the art of collecting rocks, minerals, and gemstones. I found myself mesmerized by the process of rock tumbling, turning rough stones into polished gems that sparkled in the Arizona sun.
But it wasn’t just rocks that captivated us. The land whispered tales of its history through the scattered pottery sherds we uncovered, each fragment a glimpse into the lives of those who came before us.
Then, one day, our five-year-old granddaughter, Donna Mae, stumbled upon a remarkable treasure—a Native American arrowhead. The delicate artifact, nestled among the rocks and soil of our homestead, filled us with a sense of wonder and connection to the land.
Our joy knew no bounds as we marveled at the arrowhead’s craftsmanship and imagined the hands that once wielded it. This unexpected discovery reinforced our bond with the land and its rich heritage.
As we continue to build our homestead and nurture our newfound passion for rockhounding, we remain grateful for the treasures that lie beneath the surface, waiting to be unearthed. And with each find, we deepen our appreciation for the land that has welcomed us with open arms.