Remember when you were a kid and believed fairy tales were real? When enchanted forests, magical creatures, and happily-ever-afters felt within reach? Then you grew up, became a parent in the Bay Area, and realized life doesn’t quite look like that anymore… or does it?
While growing up can feel like a harsh awakening, there are extraordinary people out there who create their own reality — living outside the box and proving that a precious, storybook-like life is possible. Welcome to Kinderwood Farms, a small, enchanting farm with over 70 animals, just minutes away from places like Mentone and New Leaf Market, yet feeling like you’ve stepped right into an old storybook.
As you approach this magical mini farm-climbing a fairly steep hill—you’re instantly greeted by their signature black-and-white cat Katinka, who often pops out of the back of a truck or weaves through the greenery to welcome you with warmth. Near the front door, a turkey might strut by, a pig might wander near, and the man of the house, Mack (short for Macdonald—yes, he really does have a farm, E-I-E-I-O), will greet you with a kindness straight out of a fairy tale.
Then there’s Lauren, Mack’s wife, nursing their sweet baby boy, Rex. With her luscious Ariel-red hair and a super cool vibe that’s equal parts mermaid and homestead queen, she draws you in with her genuine warmth and hospitality. Lauren will likely offer you her signature sparkling cranberry water cooler or her fresh made sourdough, maybe some FRESH goat cheese that they just made early in the day—regardless of what it may be – they sure know how to HOST and make you feel like family.
Not to mention, Lauren loves to teach and is eager to share knowledge and experience with all ages. She taught my daughter how to make fettuccine from scratch and taught my mom tips on how to make the perfect sourdough. (You’ll have to ask her when you go too!)
Two main castmates of the house: Georgie and Nicky (known as the protector of the farm) they are both super friendly dogs. In fact – all of the animals are quite friendly (love snuggles and pets) and similar to a storybook, dogs, cats, goats, pigs all can share the same space and are happy to hang with each other and humans! Pretty amazing and for many feels surreal.
Once you arrive and realize this storybook is real, you won’t want to leave. In fact, Kinderwood Farms offers a cozy room with bathroom to rent, so you can stay for a few days and fully immerse yourself in the magic.
I discovered Kinderwood Farms while searching for places where my kids and I could volunteer and connect with animals. Make sure you book in advance, the farm is a mini oasis that is by reservation only.
Though I don’t have a farm (yet!), I believe that pursuing any dream starts by putting yourself in the right environment. This farm was exactly that—an outside-the-box experience filled with animals, nature, and heartfelt community. And both Lauren and Mack explained one of their goals is to inspire others to do the things that bring JOY. When I asked them both about what brings the most JOY in their life right now without hesitation – they both said, “Rex” and then Mack shared in fact watching Lauren as a mom and Mack are the best!
Lauren and Mack are extraordinary hosts, blending culinary, artistic, and hospitality talents to make you feel like you’re not just visiting a farm—but stepping into a home and a story unfolding. You might even get to milk goats, make cheese, or sample bread fresh from the oven. They offer so many nourishing experiences!
They’re doing things differently—breaking away from the typical bay area lifestyle.
My daughter Sofia put it perfectly:
“Lauren and Mack are like two angels God sent to earth to show us how to live.”
Having lived in Greece at 17, milking goats in a village, I recognize that rare, beautiful feeling—something so unique many never get to experience. That’s why I wanted to share their story, to show that living against the grain might just be the best way to live in today’s fast-paced, hustle-driven world.
In a culture that can feel cold and competitive, who doesn’t want to slow down, enjoy nature, connect with animals, savor home-cooked food, and be part of something bigger than ourselves? Kinderwood Farms is that “modern village” bringing community and sustainability to life.
They also host fun events like Goat Yoga, teaming up with Beer 30 to bring baby goats along—imagine a tiny goat on your back as you flow through a child’s pose!
Lauren and Mack are passionate about community-led participation and sustainability. Both highly educated, warm, and hardworking, they care deeply for every one of their animals, all of whom have brilliant names and big personalities. Which some of the guests have even had the opportunity of helping choose names..and all very creative!
On my last visit, we arrived with a gift for their newborn baby—only to find a baby goat born that very morning! Holding and feeding that sweet little creature felt like the most magical, real-life fairy tale moment. Then to all of our surprise my son who is 1.5 bottle fed one of the baby goats.
Of course, it’s not all rainbows and unicorns—these two work tirelessly, cleaning, caring, building, nursing, and feeding. Mack is usually crafting something new, while Lauren juggles motherhood, cooking, and even sailing (she’s a sailing expert!). I’ve encouraged them to consider adding a Kinderwood sailing experience—imagine that!
If you want to experience magic, community, and the kind of life that feels like a storybook come to life, Kinderwood Farms is waiting for you.
They have a goal of reaching more people. To inspire balance and share their JOY with others. I even asked them to share if they could have an extra hand right now in the business what would it be and they both said with marketing and sharing what they love with more people out there. If that sounds like you or you just want to help a boot strap business and love animals be sure to reach out.
Some tips for those looking to start a homestead lifestyle from the pros:
Get a mentor Google is great for many things but learning from someone is most important
Be part of a community (having a village mindset and meeting local farmers helps!
Chickens are a great place to start! You can still live your lifestyle and a perfect way to check out farm life (And have some delicious eggs)
Check them out here: kinderwoodfarms.com
Jaime McFadden is the #1 Best Selling Author of “Waves of Self-Care: It Takes a Village” jaimemcfaden.com
