Daily Prompt
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Winter Chili: My Favorite Thing to Cook When the Cold Settles In
Chili is the quintessential winter dish that offers warmth and comfort, embodying flexibility in its preparation. This forgiving meal allows for creativity and personal touch, with each pot being unique. Leftovers enhance the flavor, making it even more delightful. For… Continue reading
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Seed Sorting Season: Turning Snow-Crete Days Into Garden Planning Wins
During winter, with outdoor gardening activities stalled due to ice and snow, focusing on seed organization indoors becomes essential. This productive task involves gathering all seed packets, sorting them by type, and noting important details. With organized seeds and plans… Continue reading
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Honey Bees: Why Late Winter Is the Most Dangerous Time for a Hive
Late winter is critical for bee survival, with starvation posing the greatest risk rather than cold temperatures. As honey stores dwindle and the queen resumes laying, food consumption rises dramatically. Beekeepers should monitor hives closely and provide emergency feeding to… Continue reading
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Looking Forward to a Reset After Snow, Ice, and Mud
The post reflects on the restorative power of deep cleaning after a winter storm. It emphasizes how chaotic weather invades living spaces and the grounding feel of reclaiming order. The act of cleaning isn’t about perfection but creating a calm… Continue reading
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I Didn’t Win the Lottery—But I’m Still Building My Dream Life
The article explores the common fantasy of winning the lottery and contrasts it with the reality of building a fulfilling life through intentional choices, like homesteading. It emphasizes that true fulfillment doesn’t rely on financial windfalls but on commitment and… Continue reading
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Books We Want to Read that Will Support Our Homesteading Journey
The piece emphasizes the importance of reading in homesteading, highlighting several key books that guide learning in areas like whole farm management, soil health, and productivity. These resources provide valuable insights to help homesteaders make informed decisions, improve sustainability, and… Continue reading
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Homesteading Family Traditions: Preserving More Than Food
Experience the art of homesteading through cherished family rituals. Learn how canning connects us to our roots, infusing modern life with the wisdom of our ancestors. Continue reading
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2026 Homestead Goals: Growing with Purpose at J & J Homestead
Every year at J & J Homestead begins with goal-setting to inspire growth in skills, livestock, sustainability, and income. For 2026, key goals include launching a farmstand, improving profitability, raising meat birds, expanding the chicken flock, splitting bee hives, and… Continue reading
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Planning the Farmstand Before the First Seed Is Planted
This weekend, preparations for the upcoming farmstand begin, including clearing space and planning crops. The focus is on offering a diverse selection of seasonal vegetables, plants, and baked goods. Thoughtful planning in winter ensures a successful growing season, balancing crop… Continue reading
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This Week’s Biggest Success: When Our Words Became a Bedtime Lesson
Our biggest success this week (so far!) Some weeks on the homestead are measured in harvests, completed projects, or animals thriving under our care. Other weeks bring a quieter kind Continue reading
