A Gen Xer sold her business, ditched the city, and moved to the woods with her husband. Settling into her new life took time.

Michelle Morigeau was burned out, so she left the city and started a homestead in the woods with her husband.

Mark Aldous/Peak Property Photography.

• Burnout from running a fashion consignment business led Michelle Morigea...

  Reconnecting with Nature: How a Former Fashion Entrepreneur Embraced Rural Homesteading

  From City Hustle to Rural Tranquility

  In 2019, Michelle Morigeau, a successful fashion consignment business owner, found herself exhausted and unfulfilled. The relentless grind of city life had taken its toll, leaving her longing for something more meaningful. A temporary relocation to her father-in-law's lakehouse in British Columbia during the pandemic sparked a realization in Morigeau. The serene mountain and forest environment provided a respite from the hectic city pace, reigniting her desire to live a sustainable and fulfilling life.

  Embarking on a Homesteading Journey

  In May 2021, Morigeau and her husband purchased a four-acre property in East Kootenay for $458,000. The land offered ample space for their homesteading aspirations, including a four-bedroom house, ample gardening space, and opportunities for self-sufficiency. Inspired by the durability and eco-friendliness of rammed earth construction, the couple embarked on building various structures on their property, including a wood storage hut, expanded chicken coops, and an off-grid sauna. Their ultimate goal is to construct a 3,000-square-foot carriage house and eventually rebuild the main house using rammed earth.

  Pursuing Sustainability and Self-Reliance

  Morigeau's interest in sustainability and living in harmony with nature led her to embrace rammed earth construction. This ancient building technique utilizes natural materials, creating structures that regulate temperature year-round and have a low carbon footprint. The couple has also established a farm stand on their property to sell surplus produce grown in their extensive garden. Morigeau is committed to providing fresh, healthy food for themselves and the local community.

  Breaking Away from Materialism and Consumerism

  Living a rural lifestyle has allowed Morigeau to break free from the chains of materialism. She has embraced practical clothing and no longer craves the latest designer labels. "After a year of being out here, I realized my passion for that business had died," she said, referring to her former consignment business. "None of it really matters." Her expenses have also decreased thanks to the reduced need for shopping. The absence of proximity to malls and stores has encouraged her to focus on more meaningful pursuits.

  Perseverance and Hope

  Morigeau attributes their success in building their homestead to their determination and perseverance. Despite obstacles and setbacks, they never gave up on their dream of creating a sustainable and fulfilling life in the wilderness. "If it's something that you really want and you put your mind to it, it will happen for you," she advises. "We just kept persevering, and then it happened for us."