Embracing the Dream: My Homesteading Journey Re-ignites!

Grab your favorite mug of something warm and get cozy because on this blustery day in May (the weatherman said 100% chance of yuck) I’m about to revisit a dream that’s been simmering in my heart for as long as I can remember. That’s right—I’m venturing into the captivating world of homesteading! Again.

First – a little catch up – To be completely honest, we all know I’ve been working towards that dream for years. Briefly, I’ve spoken to you about my setbacks in the recent past – I struggle with motivation when I’m in a season of overwhelm and disappointment like that. Last year I think I made ONE blog post, and it was about feeling better about things… That intrinsically comes with springtime, and I’m aware of that.

Last year my brother and I worked on making my chicken coop better, and I ended up with 14 chickens (now 13 because I gave my rooster away). I planted a bunch, and we had an abundant spring all over Wyoming due to the unseasonably wet weather we experienced. We were very fortunate to have such lush weather while much of the rest of the country suffered through drought.

Last year I attended our local Farmer’s Market almost every week (save, I believe three in a sixteen week run) with products from my home bakery. This year, while life has different plans for me on the weekends, I plan to attend as much as possible and am feeling obligated to provide vegetables, as one of the largest local vegetable producers will be retiring this year. Inappropriately, and probably, maybe, unintentionally one of the leaders of the market laid guilt on the rest of us who aren’t vegetable producers to grow something to sell at the market. I’m struggling with not feeling OBLIGATED to fix all problems that come my way, but I do want to grow and think this is an ample opportunity. Then this weekend, my mom and I started planning and scheming and buying up plants and supplies… so… here we go!

So, what is it about homesteading that has me so enthralled? Well, for starters, it’s the idea of creating a life filled with purpose and connection. I imagine waking up to the gentle clucking of chickens outside my window, gathering fresh eggs for breakfast, and tending to my garden as the sun rises. It’s about getting back to basics, embracing the rhythms of nature, and living in harmony with the earth.

Of course, homesteading isn’t all sunshine and rainbows. It’s a journey filled with challenges, from learning how to care for animals to mastering the art of growing your own food. But therein lies the beauty of it all—the opportunity to learn, grow, and connect with the world around you in a profound way. That paired with the fact that my dude doesn’t really want anything to do with it so it will be, effectively a one (wo)man effort.

So, where does one even begin on this grand adventure? For me, it’s been a journey of discovery and education. I’ve devoured books, scoured websites, and soaked up every bit of knowledge I could find about homesteading. But more than that, it’s been about embracing a mindset shift—a willingness to step out of my comfort zone and embrace the unknown. You may or may not know that I am an avid Roots and Refuge fan. I’ve been following Jessica and her family since right about the time she got seriously started. 2017 or 2018. One time she said she just decided she was going to start doing YouTube like it was her job and that has been weighing heavily on me. I believe it is time for me to take that advice.

As I take my next steps into the world of homesteading, I’m filled with a sense of excitement and anticipation. Sure, there will be challenges along the way, but I’m ready to tackle them head-on. Because at the end of the day, homesteading isn’t just about growing food or raising animals—it’s about creating a life that’s meaningful, fulfilling, and true to who you are.

So, here’s to the beginning of my homesteading journey—a journey of discovery, growth, and endless possibilities. And who knows? Maybe my little adventure will inspire a few of you to embark on your own homesteading journey. After all, in a world that often feels disconnected and chaotic, there’s something truly special about getting back to basics and living in harmony with the land.

xoxo
-S