Yes, homesteading is good. Replacing trees here and there is a good start as well.
I'd suggest finding heartier plants to start with and lower maintenance, so as to get some success as proof-of-concept to the rest of your family. Gardening can take a lot of time until you understand what works in your area.
In Orlando we used to have a salad garden. Bibb and Romaine lettuce, carrots, radishes, onions. Tomatoes were great but had to look out for nematodes. Other than that, central Florida is great for food.
Being willing to try new foods that grow well in your climate will be an important part of your adventure.
Depending on of you want to shield things from frost and freezing, there are lots of good plant that then come into scope.