Blog Archives: Navigating Through Our Best Articles

Mites on Chickens: How to Spot Them, Prevent Them, and Get Rid of Them

August 17, 2026

Mites are common external parasites that can affect backyard chickens, causing various health issues, including irritation and decreased egg production. They can be introduced through wild birds, rodents, or contaminated equipment. Regular inspection, coop…
The Oven Saga Continues: No Oven? Challenge Accepted!

August 15, 2026

In 2026, the J & J Homestead faced an oven failure just as they planned to reopen their farmstand bakery. Though repairs will take 7–10 business days, they opted to create a new no-oven…
When the Oven Stops Working: An Unexpected Farmstand Setback

August 14, 2026

Running a small farmstand often teaches the importance of flexibility. After an unexpected oven breakdown just before reopening, the owner faced disappointment but decided to adapt. While baked goods are temporarily unavailable, the farmstand…
First Saturday Lime on the Homestead: Our Secret Weapon for Muddy Chicken Runs, Flies, Bugs, and the Garden

August 11, 2026

First Saturday Lime has become an essential product for J & J Homestead, proving useful in various aspects of homesteading. Initially used around chickens to manage mud and odors, it has also been effectively…
A Small but Mighty Milestone: Both of Our Rescued Hens Laid Eggs!

August 11, 2026

The recent discovery of two eggs laid by rescued hens on the homestead marks a significant milestone in their adjustment and recovery. It reflects the hens’ comfort and signals their health improvement after a…
As a Homesteader, What Do I Wish Schools Taught Today?

August 9, 2026

The article discusses practical life skills that should be taught in schools, emphasizing gardening, cooking, animal care, home maintenance, food preservation, personal finance, entrepreneurship, and resourcefulness. The author argues that these skills foster independence,…
Finding What Works on the Homestead: Sometimes Change is Important

August 7, 2026

Over the past year, transitioning from raising ducks to turkeys transformed our homestead. Ducks didn’t fit our needs, requiring excessive maintenance without providing sufficient value. Rehoming them and embracing turkeys, which align better with…
Why Instagram and Facebook Have Been One of the Best Parts of Our Homesteading Journey

August 6, 2026

Discover how Instagram and Facebook transformed our homesteading journey by helping us build community, solve challenges, learn from experienced homesteaders, and share authentic life at J & J Homestead.
The Farmstand Is Taking a Break… But I Can’t Wait to Open It Again!

August 5, 2026

If you had asked me a week ago how I’d feel about taking a short break from the farmstand, I probably would have told you that I’d enjoy every minute of it. And don’t…