Homesteading is not the idealistic, blissful lifestyle that magazines and news articles make it out to be, at least, not all the time. Realistically, it requires a lot of good planning, researching, preparation and maintenance of land, finances, resources, crops (big or small), and livestock. Before you take the plunge into homesteading on a large …
If you’re anything like me, your washing machine is probably your favorite appliance in the entire house. I use my washer and dryer practically every day, but that’s not exactly something I’m proud of. After all, the average washing machine uses several dozen gallons of water per cycle, and more soap and detergent than I’d …
The 14 Most Effective Non-Electric Washing Machines Read More »
When I was a kid, I spent a lot of time on hiking trails and in campsites. A major part of those experiences was the wood fires that we used to burn. As a kid I never considered which types of wood are used. I didn’t know what type of wood we were using; all …
If you have ever bought a purebred animal, you will know that they are expensive. Expensive may just mean a greedy breeder, or it may mean a quality animal. My first medical service dog was a purebred golden retriever. I got him as a pup, and paid a whopping $969 for him as a potty-trained …
I think it’s safe to say we know what paperclips are; some of us use them on a weekly or daily basis. So, what if I told you that there were more uses for paperclips than just clipping paper? Would you believe me? If not, well, prepare to have your minds blown! We’re looking at …
As we all gear up for the cold winter months, heating oil is used in more homes worldwide than any other heating source. It is more affordable and safer than gas. Because of the very big job it does, we buy it by the barrel loads. But how long will heating oil last? Provided it …
Not everyone is fortunate enough to have easy access to an abundant wood supply that, with the help of a chainsaw, can be turned into firewood. For many people who need firewood for their log burner, there is only one option: to find a local supplier. Now, not everyone needs a whole cord of wood, …
Today, more people than ever are planning to be food self-sufficient. Many others have spare garden areas that they want to grow crops on and hence avoid buying expensive store produce. Growing seasonal produce makes it difficult to maintain supplies throughout the year. I have a patch of potatoes that are growing at the moment …
Modern science has come so far that we can now accurately predict weather up to 10 days in advance. We receive hurricane, tornado, and even high wind warnings that give us enough time to evacuate, move to safety, or just hunker down at home. Meteorologists have an array of tools at their disposal to help …
I have lost count of how many times I have heard people say, “I dream of being self-sufficient”. We think back to the good old days of the pioneers when they created an idyllic House on the Prairie lifestyle. And the first thing they need to consider is land, which is also the biggest expense. …
Here’s How Much Land You Need to Be Self-Sufficient Read More »
