Day 2: The $62 Path – When the Universe Brings You Home

Yesterday’s blog shared how we ended up low on gas, with no signal, and were guided to a vintage country store that turned out to be exactly where we needed to be. A stranger named Rick introduced us to someone who said: “Meet me tomorrow morning — I’ll introduce you to Gordon. ”So today… we followed that bread crumb.

I woke up excited for the day ahead. The night before, we stayed up late soaking in music, conversation, laughter, and connection. Even with the late night, I rose early, ready to head back to the store. But mornings have a way of stretching out in the best way. We sipped coffee with homemade marshmallows, chatted with fellow travelers, and shared bittersweet “see you soon” with our dear friend Flo, who’s heading out on her own adventure.

By the time we got in the truck, it was already 9:15 AM! Yikes.

Arrival time? 9:44.

Meeting window ending at 10:00. We were cutting it close.

We pulled into the same little store at 9:45 — just in time.

Inside, we met Kim, but neither Rick nor the man from yesterday had shown up. For a moment, I wondered if we missed it. The Fox Den, the restaurant connected to the store, wasn’t open yet either. Kim began telling us what we could do to pass the time…

And then — right on cue — he walked in.

Dwayne apologized for being late, but of course, it was all perfect timing. The conversations, the coffee, the hugs — all of it led us to this moment. He told us about a property: 11 acres for sale.

Off John’s Bridge Road? we asked. Yes, he said. That’s the same road we went down yesterday — the one that led us to the gas station, to Rick, to all of this. He began giving us directions, but after a few twists and turns, he paused: “Do you have time? I’ll just show you. ”We were stunned by the kindness. Of course we had time.

We jumped in the truck and followed. We passed by the road we explored yesterday. Jesse and I looked at each other — “Guess that wasn’t the one after all. ”Then we curved around the bend…

And there it was. The bottom of the land.

We drove to the top where Dwayne introduced us to a potential new neighbor. We talked about his homesite, the area, and our vision. We walked up the hillside, following a winding road that led toward the highest point. The sun beamed down, lighting up the clearing that could one day be our home. The solar potential was perfect. The land felt alive. We didn’t take many pictures — we were too immersed in the moment, talking about local foraging, the region’s history, and the possibilities. Goosebumps rose on both of us.

This felt like the beginning of something real. Something rooted. Something ours.

Dwayne, as it turns out, built the roads here. He helped re-channel rivers after Hurricane Helene. He knows this land like the back of his hand — not just the layout, but the soul of it. We asked a million questions, and he patiently answered every one.

By the end, we were buzzing. We told him we’d head to The Fox Den for lunch, and he said, “I’ll meet you there. ”When we arrived, Dwayne was already inside, and as we walked in, he waved us over — Gordon was sitting at the table. The contact. The man we came to meet.

Right there, waiting.

We shook hands, exchanged numbers, and shared our dream. We kept it short so their food wouldn’t get cold, but the connection was made. The next step was in motion. We offered to buy Dwayne’s lunch to thank him, but he kindly declined.

He gave us something far greater than a tour: his time, his trust, his heart

Dwayne doesn’t have a phone, but we know where he lives. Come by anytime, he says as he leaves out the door.

As we ate, we met the owner’s mother and laughed like old friends. I looked around at the community — people waving, checking in, smiling from across the room. This was it. This was the place. This was home.

BBQ Ribs, mashed potatoes, carrots and peas from Fox Den

We headed back to Standing Bear with fresh energy in our hearts. We think we found the land.

Tomorrow, once the rain clears, we’ll go back to hike it thoroughly. Then we’ll call Gordon and begin what might just be the next chapter of our life. We’re ready!

With a community like this — where people show up for each other — we can do this. Together.

Until Then…I’ll keep you posted on what happens next. But for now, remember this:

The universe guides you.

Listen to your gut.

Trust the detours.

They’re never just a coincidence.

Thank you for being here and walking this journey with us. Every step, every twist, every unexpected turn has led us closer to something beautiful — and we’re so grateful to share it with you. If this story moved you, we’d love to hear from you.

Leave a comment below and share a moment when the universe showed up for you.

Your story might just be the inspiration someone else needs today.

With all our love,

Melissa & Jesse

P.S. - I will try and take more photos and videos of the land tomorrow when we head back. Until then, send us all the positive vibes you can!