Spring coop cleaning day is a big day when we have used the deep litter method of coop maintenance. This deep litter needs to be completely cleaned out as the temperatures begin to warm. It's a big job. The deep litter has been accumulating for months. It's time for a complete cleaning. Since we have 25 hens and roosters living in the 12 x 8 shed, you would think that the smell would be pretty bad after a winter of no cleaning. But, surprisingly, it is not. I use … [Read more...]
Gardening Journey- How to look at disappointment in your garden.
The beginning of our gardening journey each year is met with hope and excitement. Like many gardeners most of my garden planning starts months before anything actually goes into the ground. I spend time pouring over seed catalogs, looking through previous year's notes and scheming, um, I mean dreaming. The excitement builds as the time for planting gets closer and closer. But what happens when things don't quite go the way you thought they would. Because they don't, you know. There are … [Read more...]
Adding Animals to the Homestead
Somewhere along your homesteading journey, you will probably get the itch to start adding animals to the homestead. Or, the opportunity will present itself in an offer you can't refuse. Perhaps someone is giving away a flock of "free" chickens, or you fall in love with a baby goat and decide this is the right time for adding animals to the homestead. What Is the Right Time for Adding Animals to the Homestead? Whether it's a well planned adventure, or a series of events, you should have an … [Read more...]
Take Time To Play
Take time to play. Make time to play. I actually pondered over the title for a few minutes! Are we creating extra time as in Make time to play or just seizing some of the existing time, as in Take Time To Play? I should confess. I tend to be a workaholic. Most of the time, I am thinking about work, planning to do work, working on something that will eventually be work. It's the way I am wired I have been this way for a long time. Luckily, my blogging job is playful. I am able to … [Read more...]
Step into Herb Gardening
Herbs: Plants or parts of plant used for scent, flavor, or therapeutic properties. I have said it before but I am glad to say it again. Life is a journey, and no where is it more of a journey than on the path to better health and a more sustainable lifestyle. I have grown herbs before but as time has passed, I am finding more and more uses for fresh herbs. I enjoy growing them and have been surprised by their resilience to the weather conditions. Growing fresh herbs may not be a … [Read more...]
