Latest Posts
-
The Power of Companion Planting: 10 Plant Pairings for a Thriving Garden
The post discusses the importance of companion planting in gardening, emphasizing how specific plant pairings can benefit each other by reducing pests, improving soil health, and maximizing space. The author shares ten effective pairings, highlighting that companion planting is adaptable… Continue reading
-
As a Homesteader, Something That Never Gets Crossed Off My To-Do List
Homesteading involves a never-ending to-do list, primarily focused on daily maintenance and care. Tasks like feeding animals, checking water, and tending to gardens are essential for sustainability and health. This ongoing rhythm of responsibilities is not a failure but a… Continue reading
-
Winter Chili: My Favorite Thing to Cook When the Cold Settles In
Chili is the quintessential winter dish that offers warmth and comfort, embodying flexibility in its preparation. This forgiving meal allows for creativity and personal touch, with each pot being unique. Leftovers enhance the flavor, making it even more delightful. For… Continue reading
-
Seed Sorting Season: Turning Snow-Crete Days Into Garden Planning Wins
During winter, with outdoor gardening activities stalled due to ice and snow, focusing on seed organization indoors becomes essential. This productive task involves gathering all seed packets, sorting them by type, and noting important details. With organized seeds and plans… Continue reading
-
Winter Egg Checks: Why I Keep Popping Into the Coop All Day
During winter, egg collecting becomes more frequent to prevent freezing in cold temperatures. Shorter days can alter laying patterns, necessitating multiple daily checks to ensure eggs remain intact and clean. This routine not only maintains coop hygiene but also fosters… Continue reading
-
Honey Bees: Why Late Winter Is the Most Dangerous Time for a Hive
Late winter is critical for bee survival, with starvation posing the greatest risk rather than cold temperatures. As honey stores dwindle and the queen resumes laying, food consumption rises dramatically. Beekeepers should monitor hives closely and provide emergency feeding to… Continue reading
-
Looking Forward to a Reset After Snow, Ice, and Mud
The post reflects on the restorative power of deep cleaning after a winter storm. It emphasizes how chaotic weather invades living spaces and the grounding feel of reclaiming order. The act of cleaning isn’t about perfection but creating a calm… Continue reading
-
February Is When Ducks Test Your Commitment
February poses significant challenges for duck keepers on a homestead, as the excitement of winter fades while spring remains distant. Ducks require consistent care in harsh conditions, including managing frozen water and slippery ice. This month tests commitment, highlighting the… Continue reading
-
I Didn’t Win the Lottery—But I’m Still Building My Dream Life
The article explores the common fantasy of winning the lottery and contrasts it with the reality of building a fulfilling life through intentional choices, like homesteading. It emphasizes that true fulfillment doesn’t rely on financial windfalls but on commitment and… Continue reading
-
The Hard Side of Raising Chickens in Winter (That Social Media Rarely Shows)
Raising chickens may seem charming, but winter reveals its true challenges. Care for livestock demands constant commitment, regardless of harsh conditions. Responsibilities like feeding, monitoring, and ensuring proper shelter weigh heavily, emphasizing the emotional load of animal care. Despite the… Continue reading