Firewood is part of winter living on many homesteads, farms, and ranches. Some folks have a ready source of timber on their land while others seek an outside source to keep them warm. Examples of sources would include US Forest Service Land (with appropriate wood cutting permits), lumber yards that sell cord wood, as well […]
Homestead How-Tos
Cautionary Tale: Sort Through Dried Beans!
Fall and winter usher in the season of warm, hearty bean dishes (and I am not talking about fresh green beans). Sure, while you can purchase cans of beans from a grocery store, homemade cooked beans (starting from dried) offers a flavor profile that just can’t be beat. A pot of beans simmering on the […]
Homemade Garlic Powder? Yes You Can
It’s a staple in just about everybody’s pantry. This versatile ingredient can season, soups, stews, dressings, sauces, doughs, and meats. Or if you live near Gilroy, CA, it has been known to grace ice cream. What is it you ask? Why it is humble garlic powder. While this powder may be tossed into grocery carts […]
Incorporating Evergreens into Christmas
In a world full of plastic decorations, my solace is found in natural materials. So instead of reaching for materials made from petrochemicals, I head to the forest. (If you don’t have access to a forest, check with your local nursery, greenhouse, or floral shop for fresh greens. Stores like order typically order evergreens by […]
Frugal Firestarter
Frugal is part of our daily living. Around our homestead, we are always looking for ways to recycle, repair, and repurpose items. But one thing that we had been tossing out (or on some occasions balling up and tucking into perennials for birds to find and use in their nests) is dryer lint. Surely there […]
7 Reasons Why Christmas Tree Cutting Can Benefit a Forest
Each year the debate is renewed. Both sides tout their superiority. Some favor tradition. Some favor convenience. Yet both make claims why they are the green option. Real vs. artificial trees. But before you put up a Christmas tree, do you know the benefits to a forest when you cut down a tree in the […]