I grew up in upstate NY, in a big family where most of my aunts and uncles make a living farming. I moved to Tennessee for a job in 2016 and did not know anyone. I thought church might be a good way to find community, and ventured to a cowboy church that was temporarily congregating in Pottsville, TN. There, I met Danny Smith. After one service, I shared with him my big plans for buying chicks. I was conversant in agriculture because I grew up around farms, but I had never personally farmed. Danny could tell I had no idea what I was talking about, and graciously offered to help. Danny never had kids and knew how to do so many things. I wanted to learn. Together, we: built a chicken coop, built a greenhouse, rode his quarter horses (which are still here on the farm), gardened, bought the best cowboy hats, listened to Tom Petty, and many other fun and random things. We forged a unique friendship. Danny became sick in January 2022 and left the earthly world in July of the same year. Before he died, he sold me 40 acres from his 99 acre estate. His nephew, Jeff, inherited the rest of his property. His family kindly referred to me as his "honorary niece" in his obituary. I am thankful to be close friends with Danny's family, especially his sister, Peggy, Jeff's mom, who lives next door.  This has been, and is, an unbelievable journey- usually humbling, often comedic. I am perpetually thankful for the divine appointment of his friendship and this path that continues to unfold.