Bonnie Lea Farm & Retreat came about as a necessity for me: I had to leave the shore line of New Jersey due to the incredibly high costs, the encroaching tides and my PTSD which requires a quieter, more peaceful environment. Upon seeing the farm, for the first time, I immediately knew I would name it 'Bonnie Lea Farm': the stunning meadow on the plateau between rises, easily took its name from my
daughter who died by her own hand due to a fatal combination of PTSD and alcohol. After moving into the house, I soon realized that I could not accomplish the work myself and I started, casually, making invitations online. Then, one of the invitations was accepted. The resulting collaboration added 'Retreat' to the farm's name and Bonnie Lea Farm & Retreat was born. We are both on a fixed income so affording materials is a slow go, however, we have all the time in the world. We are prepared to invite you to the farm, once it is completed, for one night and two days for each $50.00 that you contribute. No children allowed; you must be, at least, 18 years of age or older to contribute or take advantage of the farm. Also, if you have a trade (electrical, plumbing, carpentry), you are invited to join us any time and stock up points for future use (a day for a day) when the house is complete. Currently, the living is primitive: we have no hot -- or cold -- running water, no flushing toilet (we're on the "bucket system") and no central heat (there are space heaters and warm blankets). Plus, you will definitely want to bring your own pillow and, possibly, a sleeping bag. Spiritually, I am a Pantheist, my roommate a ordained believer; we have no dogma, everyone is free to explore and search for their own truth, however, we recognize only one race, the human race, and we recognize that love is glorious in every form it comes in, therefore, no prejudice of any kind is welcome. Bring an open mind and leave any fi****ms behind. I am very fortunate that I could purchase this farm and I want to share my good luck with those who travel a similar path but might not have the means to find the peace that I have found. It is gratifying and, not only do I feel obliged to share it, I am happy to be in a position to do so.
