What’s something you believe everyone should know.

Homesteading has a way of capturing people’s imaginations. The idea of growing your own food, collecting fresh eggs each morning, and living a little closer to the land sounds idyllic — and it is, in many ways. But for anyone who’s curious about starting their own homestead journey, there’s one thing everyone should know: homesteading is a lifestyle, not a hobby.

It’s a Commitment, Not a Weekend Project

Homesteading doesn’t end when the sun sets or the weather turns bad. The animals still need to be fed in the rain, the garden still needs to be weeded in the heat, and the beehives still require attention even when you’re tired. It’s a daily rhythm that connects you to nature in every season — both the easy and the hard ones. But with that comes a deep satisfaction that few other lifestyles can offer.

You’ll Learn More Than You Ever Expected

Homesteading is an education all its own. You’ll learn about soil health, plant growth cycles, animal behavior, and food preservation — sometimes all in the same day. Each success and failure teaches you something new, and before you know it, you’re more self-reliant than you ever thought possible.

Community Matters

Despite the self-sufficiency that homesteading promotes, community is at the heart of it. Swapping eggs for honey, sharing seeds, or lending a hand during harvest builds a network of support. Whether your neighbors are next door or across the country, the homesteading community thrives on shared wisdom and encouragement.

It’s Equal Parts Patience and Purpose

The homesteading life rarely goes as planned. Weather changes, plants fail, and animals have minds of their own. But every challenge deepens your connection to what truly matters — purposeful living. You learn to slow down, find joy in small victories, and appreciate the work that goes into every fresh egg, jar of honey, and homegrown tomato.

The Reward Is in the Journey

At J & J Homestead, we’ve learned that homesteading isn’t about perfection — it’s about growth. It’s about learning from the land, sharing your knowledge, and celebrating progress one season at a time.

If you’ve ever thought about starting your own homestead, remember this: it’s not about having it all figured out — it’s about being willing to start and learn along the way.