Hidden in every beehive is a highly organized society of bees with a clear hierarchy and well-defined roles. Though a thriving colony can house over 60,000 bees, every bee plays a vital part in the hive’s survival. Each hive is made up of a fascinating caste of characters, including the queen bee, the versatile female…
When it comes to home food preservation, most home cooks are familiar with the most common sizes of canning jars. Â However, several types of canning jars are available. Each jar is designed for specific foods, batch sizes, and storage needs. Selecting the correct jar means preparing your food in the best jar sizes to meet…
One of the cornerstone principles of homestead living is becoming less dependent on outside systems. For many homesteaders, the food system is usually at the top of the list of concerns. Before Philip and I made our permanent move to the homestead, we decided to purchase American Bresse chickens. This dual purpose breed was getting…
When I first got my milk cows, I was excited to make the classic dairy products we use and enjoy. But, hands down, my favorite indulgence to make with fresh, raw cow’s milk is homemade chocolate pudding! Whether you’re looking for a way to use up a lot of milk or just craving something sweet,…
For many homesteaders, a family milk cow is a new level of homesteading! Dairy animals are amazing animals that can transform grass and sunshine into protein-rich milk that not only will feed your family, but can also supplement the protein needs of many of the animals on your farm! A dairy cow truly is the…
Meatballs are a classic recipe that provides versatility in the kitchen! Not only can meatballs be served in a variety of ways, but it’s a budget-friendly meal that helps you stretch your grocery dollars. My favorite venison meatballs recipe can be made using 100% ground venison, or mix it with ground pork for added flavor. …
With the cost of eggs skyrocketing, many homeowners are adding backyard chickens for egg production. As you browse the commercial feed aisle in your local feed store, you may be overwhelmed with the choices. Providing a balanced diet for your feathered friends ensures healthy animals that produce nutrient-dense food for your family. But what do…
Calf sharing is a great way to enjoy the benefits of owning a family milk cow, but not be overwhelmed with milk. As a first-time cow owner, we jumped in feet first with not just one Dexter milk cow but three! Anticipating the birth of our third calf on the homestead, I wanted to look…
Introducing chickens to a new flock can feel like an awkward family reunion. The integration process will include awkward stare-downs and squabbles among the pecking order. It may even feel like the chicken sequel of Mean Girls! However, it is possible to introduce new additions to your current flock with patience and time. As you…
As a new chicken keeper, one crucial element of flock management is creating the right balance of roosters and hens. Too many roosters create havoc, while too few may leave your hens vulnerable. While you can keep chickens without a rooster, let’s talk about why we prefer having a rooster in the flock and how…
