While most people know that maple trees can be tapped for syrup, it is less common knowledge that there are dozens of other trees that can be tapped for sap which you can also make into syrup! It's actually pretty easy. What Trees Can be Tapped First, of course you need to identify if your tree can be tapped for syrup or sap. It is pretty safe to assume that if you live in an area without a winter your trees won't be able to produce any sap (don't worry—I still consider you lucky). Trees ... [ Read More ]
How to Use Essential Oils for a Healthy Body
As promised in my introduction to essential oils post, I would like to talk about some specific uses for essential oils. People have been using essential oils since ancient times, and one of the main things they can improve is your health! So today I'd like to do an overview featuring five major essential oils that benefit your health—a natural first aid kit, if you will. We will take a look at the oil, how it can benefit your health, and the best way to use it. Keep in mind that a lot of ... [ Read More ]
6 Things No One Ever Cleans (But You Should!)
While in college I worked cleaning houses for a while. Because of that, I have this superhero-like capability of seeing all the dirt in someone's house as soon as I walk in. While I cleaned houses, that was a blessing. Now, its a curse—except for the fact that my house is cleaner than anyone I know. Since I acquired my dirt-finding super power, I have discovered that there are certain items in the home that people tend neglect—whether it be because you hadn't noticed or because you couldn't ... [ Read More ]
An Introduction to Essential Oils
I'm sure a lot of you have heard of essential oils, and if you are anything like me you were probably a little skeptical at first. It's hard to believe that something so simple can actually do things like improve your health. For those of you who may not know about essential oils, essentially (get it?) the oils are made from very concentrated plant extracts that offer a ton of benefits for your health, mood, and even hygiene. Since the whole concept behind essential oils is an all-natural ... [ Read More ]
7 Easy Things to Do with Eggshells
A lot of homesteaders have a steady supply of eggs and, therefore, eggshells. Quite a few of us throw them away without a second thought. Today, I want to talk about some natural ways to use your eggshells around the house instead of throwing them out. Before you can use the egg shells, though, you are going to want to clean them. It's easier than it sounds—you just need to rinse them out while they are still newly empty. If that doesn't seem like enough, you can use a mild dish soap to wash ... [ Read More ]
Create Your Very Own No-Yard Herb Garden
I thought we could talk about some gardening options for people with no yard space. Whether you live in an apartment, town house, or are renting a property and the landlord doesn't want you digging up the yard, gardening in pots is a great way to get herbs and veggies when you don't have the yard to support it! Potted plants can be a great way to get items from your garden through the fall months as well. After all, it is just around the corner. You can leave them out, weather ... [ Read More ]
Pumpkin Carving Tips
October is finally here! While Halloween is still several weeks away, I've already started thinking about costumes, parties and the best part--carving pumpkins. I have tons of fond memories of carving little grinning pumpkins and placing them on the stoop when I was growing up, and to me it just isn't Halloween without a few jack-o-lanterns sitting around! So, if you're planning out your next Halloween pumpkin, then here are some tips to make sure yours is the coolest pumpkin ever! Choosing ... [ Read More ]
Strawberry Turnover Recipe
It's no secret that I absolutely love strawberries. I use them absolutely any way that I can and during the summer months I eat more strawberries than is probably healthy. Today, I have a delicious and simple recipe for strawberry turnovers that will absolutely taste like the best of summer, no matter what time of the year it is. Personally, turnovers are one of my favorite desserts. They're like tiny personal pies without all of the fuss and trouble. You can eat them on the go and they're ... [ Read More ]
9 Signs You’re a Homesteader
From making your own jams and jellies to raising chickens in the backyard or even doing some gardening and DIY projects, homesteading looks different for everyone. And, really, it's more of a lifestyle than anything. But it's hard to put the 'homesteading' label on everyday life. But never fear! Today I have some clues that you might be becoming a homesteader: Waking up at 7 a.m. is sleeping in Boxed food tastes like chemicals to you Work boots and pajamas are totally ... [ Read More ]
Things You Should and Should Not Feed Chickens
Chickens can be extremely entertaining and useful to have around the homestead. They can also be extremely valuable, providing eggs and meat as well as helping control bugs. Plus, they're a lot of fun to watch! While there are a lot of things you can feed your chickens aside from feed to keep them healthy and happy, there are also some things that ought to be avoided. Things you should feed your chickens Every chicken is a little different, but in addition to a balanced feed diet, here are ... [ Read More ]