The Patience of the Job
As I reflect on my journey towards homesteading, I’m reminded that I was once quite impatient. While I’ve only been at it for five years, I’m still a work in progress, striving to cultivate patience as a vital aspect of this lifestyle. Through numerous challenges and setbacks, I’ve come to realize that patience is the only viable option when building a homestead from scratch.
It’s essential to understand that homesteading doesn’t happen overnight; it requires a significant investment of time, effort, and perseverance. Rather than getting caught up in frustration or disappointment, it’s crucial to approach this journey with a sense of calm and acceptance, recognizing that the process will unfold at its own pace.
Major Appreciation
As I reflect on my journey as a homesteader, I’m struck by how vastly different my perspective is from what it once was. Prior to embarking on this path, the effort that went into growing and raising my food didn’t register with me. I’d stroll through grocery stores, consuming food without giving a thought to its origin or the life that had been sacrificed so I could enjoy that cheeseburger.
Fast-forward to today, where the fruits of my labor – quite literally – have given me a profound appreciation for every meal. Not only do I value the food on my table, but I’m also grateful for all the blessings in my life. My home may not be perfect; we bought it at a bargain price after its foreclosure, and it had been neglected. Our land was once a dumping ground, but with perseverance and dedication, we’ve transformed this abandoned space into a haven.
Despite its imperfections, I’m proud of what we’ve achieved, knowing that every brick laid, every seed sown, and every animal raised has contributed to making this place our home.
The Value of Life
I didn’t have a rural upbringing; instead, I grew up in the suburbs, surrounded by urban life. As a child, my only pets were a few cats. The loss of a beloved pet can be devastating, but it’s a different story when you’ve raised an animal from birth and invested in its well-being. Seeing that creature give its life so that others can eat is a humbling experience that puts the value of life into perspective.
For guidance on coping with this reality, I recommend reading about the importance of understanding where your food comes from.
Before we moved to our homestead, our kids would spend hours mimicking their favorite TV shows and cartoons. They’d act out action-packed scenes, often exclaiming that they would ‘kill’ something – a phrase that would leave me cringing. However, after raising our own animals and gaining a deeper appreciation for life, this behavior is no longer common among them.
Once you’ve put a face to your food, it’s hard to ignore the value of every creature that contributes to your plate.
Heartbreak is Inevitable
Raising animals and growing crops on a homestead can be incredibly rewarding, but it’s essential to acknowledge the inevitable setbacks that come with it. A broken seedling, a complicated birth, or an unexpected predator attack can shatter even the most optimistic of spirits. These challenges are an inherent part of the journey, and it’s crucial to cultivate resilience in the face of adversity.
Despite the heartbreak, the sense of accomplishment and connection with nature that homesteading provides is unparalleled. It’s a delicate balance between joy and sorrow, but one that ultimately enriches our lives.
Organization Matters
This experience served as a valuable lesson for our household. As the one who typically keeps our organization in check, I was disappointed to find that my husband’s lack of enthusiasm didn’t align with mine. His carefree approach to handling belongings often resulted in misplaced items or forgotten purchases. While it may not have fazed him initially, it led to issues down the line when we needed those same items and couldn’t find them.
To avoid the frustration of re-buying things and wasting resources, I’ve come to realize that getting organized from the start is crucial.
Skip the Fancy Gizmos
When it comes to homesteaders, people often assume that there’s still a fortune to be made by catering to their needs. As a result, we’re constantly bombarded with innovative solutions for every aspect of rural life. However, our own experience has led us to a different conclusion: simplicity is often the best approach.
One example that comes to mind is our chicken waterer. We initially fell prey to the hype surrounding specialized watering systems designed specifically for chickens.
These contraptions boasted features like adjustable nozzles meant to mimic the way chickens naturally peck at their surroundings in search of water.
The idea behind these gadgets was that they would help keep the water clean and free-flowing. While this may have been the intention, we eventually discovered that chickens have a more straightforward approach when it comes to staying hydrated: they prefer to gulp water!
As such, we decided to supplement our high-tech watering system with a good old-fashioned 5-gallon bucket filled with fresh water.
To our surprise, the chickens took an instant liking to this simple solution and only resorted to drinking from their ‘fancy’ waterer when forced to do so. This experience has taught us that sometimes, the best approach is indeed the simplest one.
Homesteads Don’t Have to be Expensive
Many of us are inspired by the picturesque homesteads we see online, often wondering if they come with a hefty price tag. But starting your own homestead doesn’t have to break the bank. With some creative resourcefulness and thriftiness, you can build many essential items for free or at little cost. Similarly, raising and feeding animals can be achieved inexpensively with some careful planning.
In our case, we purchased and had built our homestead for around $70,000 – a price point that’s relatively affordable compared to what most people pay for a small house. Our larger home and homestead combination is definitely possible, it just requires a bit of ingenuity and out-of-the-box thinking.
Don’t Forget About Your House
While it’s a blessing to have a fully finished house when starting homesteading, reality often sets in for many of us. We may find ourselves purchasing a fixer-upper, which requires just as much effort and dedication to make it habitable. The key is being prepared to juggle multiple tasks simultaneously, as every detail matters. In our case, we began by renovating the interior to create a comfortable living space.
This involved laying new flooring, painting, and completing other necessary repairs. As the seasons changed, we shifted our focus outdoors, tackling landscaping and exterior projects. During the winter months, we refocused on indoor remodels, making steady progress despite the cold temperatures.
Adaptability and Failure
As I reflect on my homesteading journey, I’m reminded that adaptability is key. Who would have thought that a city girl like me could learn to thrive in a rural setting? The experience has taught me to be resilient and resourceful. One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned, however, is about failure. Perhaps no mistake was more significant than when we lost our first goat kids due to my lack of preparation and research.
Everyone assured us that goat deliveries rarely encounter difficulties, but ours did. Despite the setback, I refused to let it define me. Instead, I used it as an opportunity to grow and learn. Today, I’m proud to say that I have three healthy goat kids frolicking outside with their mothers, a testament to my ability to bounce back from adversity.
Don’t be Lazy and Don’t Forget to Plan
Homesteading demands dedication, as neglecting to plan can lead to costly consequences. I’ve learned this lesson the hard way, and it’s essential to prioritize planning to avoid setbacks. The stakes are high, whether it’s paying a premium for an out-of-season purchase or watching your crops or animals suffer due to procrastination. A homesteader’s success relies on being proactive, not reactive. In our experience, failure to plan has led to chaos and costly repairs.
For instance, we built a cozy enclosure for our pigs, thinking they’d thrive in their new environment. However, we underestimated the destructive power of these strong animals. Within days, they had torn apart the area, leaving us with a significant repair bill. The moral of the story is that planning is crucial; without it, you’re more likely to fail.
Living in the Woods Brings New Responsibility
While we may not be urban homesteaders, our woodland abode has its own unique set of responsibilities. Living deep in the woods means that we’re isolated from most visitors, unless they’re friends, lost, or up to no good. The solitude is pleasant, but it also means that we’ve had to develop a keen eye for potential hazards lurking among the trees.
It wasn’t until years after moving into our home that we discovered a ‘widow maker’ looming over our house – a dead tree with the potential to cause catastrophic damage if it fell. A chance encounter with a tree trimming professional led us to discover this ticking time bomb, and his prompt action in removing the hazard has made us much more vigilant when it comes to monitoring the trees surrounding our home.
You Need a Big Truck
I recall a crucial lesson learned far too late. Initially, as we began our homesteading journey, I relied on my trusty minivan. As someone from suburban roots, I was hesitant to adapt to new circumstances. My husband persisted in his advice: ‘We need an old truck.’ At the time, I thought he was looking for an excuse to buy a brand-new vehicle. We held onto our minivan for years, using it to transport everything from feed and hay to goats and even pigs.
The day we finally purchased a new truck, I felt immense gratitude. While it’s technically possible to homestead without a truck, I wouldn’t recommend it. Having the right vehicle can make all the difference.
You Need the Internet
Embracing frugality is a savvy decision, but it’s crucial not to sacrifice your internet connection in the process. This digital lifeline offers unparalleled access to a wealth of knowledge, allowing you to tap into the collective wisdom of others. By leveraging online resources, you can significantly reduce the amount of trial and error involved in learning new skills or staying informed about various topics.
In fact, having a reliable internet connection can be a game-changer for your personal and professional development. So, take a cue from the wise folks who’ve shared their expertise online and appreciate the value the internet brings to your life – it’s well worth holding onto.
Tools Are a Must
For a successful homesteading experience, it’s essential to invest in professional-grade cordless tools that will withstand the demands of frequent use. While they may require an initial financial commitment, these high-quality tools are designed to last for years to come, saving you money and frustration in the long run. When budget permits, prioritize purchasing reliable cordless equipment that can handle the rigors of daily homesteading tasks.
By treating your tools with care and respect, you’ll be surprised at just how much you can accomplish with them.
A Tractor Is a Must
We acquired our trusty tractor as a second-hand purchase, which we’ve come to affectionately refer to as a classic. While the initial investment was relatively modest, its value has far outweighed the cost. One aspect that I would have done differently is not opting for a model with a loader attached. In hindsight, having a loader on our tractor would have greatly simplified many tasks.
For those considering purchasing a tractor, I highly recommend investing in one that includes this feature – it can be a game-changer for increasing productivity and making life easier.
All of Your Work Shoes are Going to be Covered
When we embarked on our homesteading journey, I was caught off guard by one unexpected consequence: my outdoor shoes became filthy after just one use. It’s inevitable – you can’t help but track in something when living on a rural property. To mitigate this issue, I’ve since adopted the habit of wearing only one pair of waterproof and easy-to-clean shoes outside. This simple solution has made a big difference in keeping our home tidy.
Additionally, we’ve installed a mudroom where I can store my dirty footwear, preventing it from being tracked into the house.
Don’t Be Afraid of Your Animals
When we embarked on our homesteading journey, we didn’t initially envision a menagerie. Our initial goal was to keep a few chickens for eggs and tend a large garden. However, the idea of raising goats soon snowballed into a more extensive animal operation. As someone who grew up in the city with only a cat as a pet, I initially felt intimidated by some of our homestead’s larger inhabitants.
Over time, I’ve come to realize that I’m ultimately in control – a crucial realization when coexisting with animals. It’s essential to strike a balance between showing affection and maintaining dominance. No matter an animal’s size, horn length, or strength, respect is paramount on the homestead. Love your animals, but don’t let them dictate terms; establish clear boundaries, lest they think otherwise.
Stick to Your Gardening Methods
For us, gardening has been an adventure filled with experimentation and trial-and-error. We’ve tried numerous approaches, often combining different methods in hopes of achieving the perfect blend. However, this approach led to disappointment and even damage to our garden for at least two consecutive years.
It wasn’t until we committed to testing one method at a time that we started to see significant results.
By sticking with what worked best, we’ve enjoyed great success in our gardening endeavors ever since.
Start Your Own Seeds
When we began our gardening journey, we initially opted for purchasing mature plants from nurseries, which proved to be a more affordable option than grocery shopping. Yet, as our garden grew, so did the expenses. We soon realized that starting seeds for each new addition was not only cost-effective but also yielded incredible results. Our homegrown seedlings thrive and multiply at an astonishing rate, allowing us to cultivate a bountiful harvest with minimal investment.
For me, this self-sufficient approach is the most practical and satisfying way to maintain our garden.
Don’t Keep a Mean Rooster
We acquired our first rooster, a Rhode Island Red, along with four hens of the same breed. He was a stunning bird, and my husband had grown quite fond of him. I recall one instance where he approached our then-three-year-old son while I was out in the yard, taking clothes off the line, and proceeded to flog him. As someone who had never been around roosters before, I was taken aback by his behavior. I stood there screaming for my husband’s attention, creating quite a commotion.
Thankfully, he didn’t cause any harm. Despite this initial encounter, we decided to keep the bird in the coop, but as time passed, no one wanted to venture near due to his growing aggression and the development of spurs. Eventually, my husband sold him to a friend, who unfortunately had to put him down after the rooster became aggressive towards him. In hindsight, I regret not taking a different approach earlier.
If I had to do it again, I would have considered putting him in the freezer sooner rather than waiting for over a year of torment. Nevertheless, our current rooster is a complete opposite – a sweet and gentle soul who has won our hearts. We can’t help but feel foolish for not recognizing the value of having a friendly bird like this earlier.
You Don’t Have to Use Commercial Feed
When we first started our homesteading journey, I realized that simply purchasing commercial animal feed wouldn’t be a feasible or sustainable solution for us. The cost would quickly add up and potentially break the bank. Instead, we explored alternative methods to feed our animals, supplementing with commercial food only when necessary. Our goats primarily thrive on hay, while our rabbits enjoy a mix of hay, fodder, and pellets.
For our chickens, fresh grains from a local flour mill and other homegrown goodies do the trick. And our pigs are quite discerning eaters, enjoying a diverse range of treats. While it’s tempting to share every detail, my main point is that there are viable alternatives to relying solely on commercial feed for your livestock. Being aware of these options can lead to significant cost savings in the long run.
Always Track Your Animals
Tracking the productivity and milestones of your animals is crucial for successful homesteading. For a long time, we struggled with this aspect. To stay organized, keep a dedicated journal, calendar, or notebook that allows you to record key information about each animal’s production. This includes noting breeding dates, egg yields from chickens, and milk production from dairy animals. Additionally, keeping track of birthdates is vital for determining when young animals can be sold or butchered.
Developing this habit early on makes a significant difference in your homesteading experience, as it helps you make informed decisions rather than relying on guesswork.
Plug the Holes on the Grow out Pen
We’re passionate about raising meat rabbits, and we’ve learned that providing them with suitable living conditions is crucial for their happiness. Initially, we thought free-ranging our rabbits would be the best option, but it didn’t quite work out as planned. We created a pen that allowed them to move freely between their hutches and an outdoor area, but they took advantage of this freedom by digging extensive tunnels.
It was only when our rabbits started having babies that we realized the full extent of the problem – baby bunnies were running wild! While it was a challenge at first, we learned to adapt and now plug the holes as soon as they start appearing. In hindsight, we’re grateful for this experience because it taught us that our rabbits are actually much happier when kept in their hutches, where they feel more protected and secure.
Keep Your Goats Happy and They’ll Never Leave
My initial concerns about our goats’ tendency to escape were quickly alleviated as I learned that happy and well-cared-for goats are less likely to wander. Our nanny goats, in fact, were so determined to get specific foods when they were pregnant together that they found a creative way to get outside the fence – by exploiting a hole to munch on an unreachable shrub. When they discovered they couldn’t get back inside, they calmly waited at the gate, calling out for my attention.
Panicked at first, I soon realized they weren’t going anywhere. With their enclosure reopened, they trotted back in and haven’t attempted escape since. I attribute this to our over-the-top spoiling – we give them the best of everything, and it seems to keep them content. When another accidental gate opening occurred, our billy goat simply waltzed off to the food stash, got what he needed, and then returned to his enclosure.
This experience has been echoed by fellow goat owners: spoil your goats rotten, and you’ll rarely if ever have a problem keeping them home.
Use the Farmer’s Almanac for Planting
Nestled in the Appalachian foothills, our home offers a serene setting that we adore. The natural beauty of this region is matched only by the warmth and hospitality of its people. Over time, well-meaning neighbors have shared their own gardening wisdom, but many of these ‘old wives’ tales didn’t quite yield the desired results. That was until we discovered the reliability of the Farmer’s Almanac.
Each year, it provides precise planting schedules and advice tailored to our specific area – a track record that has yet to falter. With its guidance, our gardening success has significantly improved, leading me to enthusiastically recommend this trusted resource to others.
Guineas Are Extremely Noisy Creatures
My husband has a peculiar affinity for guineas, which was further solidified after our middle son’s encounter with an unwelcome tick at the doctor’s office. While these birds do have their advantages, they also come with a notable drawback: their cacophonous vocalizations. I’m not referring to a gentle clucking like that of a chicken, but rather ear-piercing cackles that can dominate your daily soundtrack.
If you’re not prepared for the auditory assault that comes with owning guineas, it’s best to reconsider your decision. Despite their many redeeming qualities, the noise factor is undoubtedly one of their most significant drawbacks.
When You Spot Illness, Jump on It
We’ve had our fair share of health issues on the farm, with both our chickens and baby goat falling ill. Fortunately, we were able to act swiftly in response to the goat’s illness, and he made a full recovery. The situation was different with our chickens, however, as we initially overlooked the warning signs. It wasn’t until we realized that snoring is a common symptom of respiratory problems in chickens that we took action.
By the time we caught on, it was too late for many of our flock members, and we lost some of them. The experience taught me valuable lessons about vigilance and proactive measures to prevent illness from spreading quickly through the coop. Although it was a tough ordeal, I’m grateful for what I learned.
Plant Your Orchard and Perennials Right Away
When venturing into homesteading, it’s essential to prioritize planting your orchard right away. The wait time for most fruit trees is around 5 years before they start producing, so getting them in the ground as soon as possible will give you a head start on enjoying your harvest. Perennials, too, are crucial to establish early on, as they’ll return year after year, growing larger and more productive with each passing season.
Make sure to prioritize planting these valuable additions to your homestead.
When Something Goes Wrong, Don’t Panic
When unexpected chaos erupts on your homestead – think feral chickens in the garden, pigs on the loose, or mischievous guineas scaling the roof – it’s tempting to lose your cool. But panic is a luxury you can’t afford. Instead, take a deep breath and face the situation head-on.
I’ve learned this lesson the hard way. It took me years of trial and error to develop a calm and level-headed approach to dealing with the unpredictability that comes with homesteading.
My guineas, in particular, have been a source of both joy and frustration. While they serve an important purpose on my farm, they also have a knack for getting into all sorts of trouble.
Take, for example, the time I woke up to the sound of their little feet pattering across our roof. It was just another typical Saturday morning, so I didn’t think much of it.
But when they decided to take a road trip to our neighbor’s house and start pulling feathers from their chickens, things took a turn for the worse.
Thanks to my neighbor’s kindness in bringing them back home, we were able to resolve the issue without too much stress or drama. And that’s the key takeaway: no matter what challenges arise on your homestead, they will always work out one way or another.
By choosing not to panic and instead focusing on finding a solution, you’ll be better equipped to handle whatever life throws your way.
