Melissa Gilbert, beloved for her role in “Little House on the Prairie,” has found solace far away from the hustle and bustle of Hollywood. Alongside her husband Timothy Busfield, she has traded the glitz and glamour for a simpler, more fulfilling life. But how did this Hollywood starlet end up in the tranquil Catskills? Let’s take a closer look.
Embracing Change and Finding Love
Gilbert’s life took an unexpected turn when she met Busfield at a bar. Initially seeking a quiet night to enjoy some sports and pizza, fate had other plans. Their friendship gradually blossomed into something more, and in 2013, they tied the knot. Gilbert’s love for Busfield wasn’t the only reason for her change of scenery; it was also a chance for her to heal and rebuild herself after enduring medical challenges.
A New Beginning in Michigan
Upon marrying Busfield, Gilbert made the brave decision to move to Michigan. The move was not solely for love but also for her well-being. After undergoing spine surgery, she needed a space where she could focus on her health and her son, Michael Garrett Boxleitner. The divorce from her previous husband had taken its toll, and Busfield encouraged her to leave the past behind and start afresh.
A Ramshackle Retreat
Arriving in the Catskills, Gilbert and Busfield stumbled upon a dilapidated cottage in 2018. Despite its dismal condition, they saw the potential of turning it into their dream home. Riddled with mold, rats, clogged plumbing, and remnants of the previous tenants, the couple faced a daunting restoration process.
Undeterred, they wielded their determination and breathed new life into the cottage. With a wood stove to keep them warm and a vision to guide them, Gilbert and Busfield transformed the space. Vintage red vinyl chairs, a cozy farm table, and refurbished cabinets were added, creating a cozy and eccentric atmosphere. Quirky touches such as Donald Duck figurines and Coca-Cola syrup bottles added personality to their new abode.
A Back to Nature Lifestyle
Living in the serene Catskills has reignited Gilbert’s love for the outdoors. She embraces a natural lifestyle, growing her own fruits and vegetables and reveling in the tranquility of living on the outskirts of town. In her newfound sanctuary, she finds solace in everyday activities like tending to her chickens and taking care of her home. With a loft transformed into a music room, Gilbert can indulge in her passion for music and art.
Blissful Moments and Beloved Furniture
In the midst of their journey, Gilbert and Busfield initially had different opinions on furniture choices. However, as time passed, they discovered a shared love for their trusty brown recliner and grandpa chair. These pieces have become constants in their humble abode, representing their harmonious home and the blissful moments they share together.
A Bittersweet Departure
While Gilbert now leads a fulfilling life in the Catskills, she admits that she still pines for the family she left behind in Los Angeles. Despite the occasional longing, her retreat to the countryside has provided her with the peace and contentment she craved.