Once again the Warrior Bonfire Program hosted a truly unique and powerful retreat in Daphne, Alabama—one designed especially for the spouses of our nation’s wounded veterans. For many of these women, life revolves around caregiving, advocating, and managing the demands of post military family life. This retreat offered something beautifully different: the chance to unplug from the noise and reconnect with themselves through nature, community, and the empowering lifestyle of homesteading.

Set on a peaceful piece of land surrounded by forest, animals, and fresh air, the weekend centered on healing through homesteading—hands-on activities that not only teach self-reliance but also naturally promote wellness and peace of mind.

We began by stepping into the woods for foraging lessons from Bee – Lightful Botanicals, learning how to identify plants with healing properties. The women created their own tinctures from herbs picked locally, taking home both knowledge and tools for continued wellness, as well as a few tinctures to jumpstart immune health, balance, and stress relief. There was a deep sense of satisfaction in learning how the earth provides what we need to heal—if only we pause long enough to notice.

Next came the comforting task of canning jam. With sticky fingers and laughter filling the kitchen, the process became more than just a preservation method; it became a metaphor for self-care—nurturing, sweet, and slow. There was joy in the simplicity, and pride in the final product.

We also embraced the creative side of healing through a unique art session with Art With A Purpose. The project had one rule: let go of control. Using fluid painting techniques, colors blended and swirled in unpredictable ways, symbolizing the beauty in surrender and the release of pressure to always have it all together. The results were stunning, each piece a reflection of inner transformation.

The homestead itself brought plenty of heartwarming therapy. From starting the day with mindfulness and stretching through yoga with Donna to feeding baby goats, giggling at the quirky emus, and sharing peaceful hikes under the canopy of trees allowed everyone to reconnect with nature—and with themselves. The simple presence of animals and the rhythm of farm life grounded us all in the moment.

One of the most meaningful parts of the retreat was hearing from several military families who have found purpose and healing through homesteading. Their stories were powerful proof that focusing on nature and sustainable living can offer a path to peace. Their success, despite the wounds of war, offered hope and inspiration.

This retreat wasn’t just a break—it was a breath of fresh air. It was a chance for these incredible women to step away from their roles as caregivers and into a space that celebrated their well-being. Surrounded by nature, learning new skills, and sharing stories with others who understand, they were reminded that healing doesn’t always happen in a clinic. Sometimes, it happens with dirt under your nails, herbs in your basket, and laughter around the fire.

We are honored to support these spouses— the quiet heroes behind our veterans—and to provide a space where they can breathe, grow, and heal.