Self sufficiency used to be a way of life for our society. It was how families provided food for the table and cash to cover expenses. To know a skill was to guarantee your future. What has happened in just two generations? Our society has changed. We are now taught...
What images come to mind when someone mentions animals on the homestead? Chickens, right? Maybe goats? Not many people consider the benefit that ducks can provide. In fact, they can usually be an easier starter animal for beginners. I've been raising both Pekin and...
You've made the decision to grow your own food. You're excited at the prospect of fresh green beans and broccoli from your garden being served on your dinner table. Your budget shouts for joy as you replace expensive organic produce from the store with organic fruits...
Composting allows gardeners to turn kitchen waste and lawn clippings into fertilizer for their gardens. It builds the soil in your garden by adding rich organic matter and encouraging earthworms who benefit your plants. Plus, it reduces your kitchen waste by reusing...
Honey's use as a medical treatment dates back to ancient Egypt when it was commonly used as a topical treatment for minor wounds. Today, honey is making a come-back as research shows its abilities as an anti-inflammatory and antibacterial agent. It has even...
Producing food for your family is a goal for most homesteading families on the path to self-sufficiency. Taking control of your food supply means more stability and less worry. You know what went into it and where it’s been. You can incorporate sustainable practices...
Keeping the bathroom clean can be a daunting task. We want to make sure the germs are wiped away as well the grime. The bathroom is the most frequented room in our house, and we want to make sure it's safe for our families. Cleaning the bathroom comes with two...
No-till gardening has grown in popularity in recent years as more gardeners look for ways to grow their own food without the need for expensive equipment. What many of them don’t realize is their desire for convenience is actually better for the soil and the ecosystem...
Tomatoes are a staple crop of many backyard gardens. Almost everyone who gardens has grown them, and probably knows their favorite varieties by name. Gardeners can also tell you stories of years when their tomatoes just didn’t produce as well as planned. Growing...
Risgrynsgröt is a Swedish rice pudding or porridge often served around Christmas time. My husband loved this porridge. It's just a little sweet and tastes just like cinnamon raisin oatmeal. It can be served with or without the raisins, but I felt it...
Many people don’t consider ducks when they decide to raise backyard poultry. Their experience with them is limited, so they don’t realize how personable and healthy they can be. Ducks can best be described as comical as they waddle around the yard, eating bugs out of...
Homemade laundry detergent is a cost effective way to save money on your laundry routine. This liquid laundry detergent recipe costs pennies per load to make yourself, and it works great! Commercial laundry detergent is expensive, with dyes and fragrances that could...