Category: Adventures of a Homesteading Wife

  • The Biggest Risk I Haven’t Taken Yet

    The Biggest Risk I Haven’t Taken Yet

    Daily writing prompt
    What’s the biggest risk you’d like to take — but haven’t been able to?
    View all responses

    If you asked me what my biggest dream is, I’d tell you without hesitation: to be home full-time — creating, growing, and living the life I’ve worked so hard to build.

    For years I’ve carried this quiet dream in my heart — to trade the rush of a 9-to-5 job for the rhythm of the homestead. To pour my mornings into coffee and content, my afternoons into chores and animals, and my evenings into writing words that help someone else believe they can do it too.

    It’s not that I dislike working. I’ve always been grateful for the stability, the routine, and the purpose it’s given me. But there’s a difference between making a living and building a life. And lately, I’ve felt the pull toward something slower, deeper, and more meaningful — the kind of life that’s measured in sunsets, seedlings, and laughter from the barnyard.

    Finding Peace in the Waiting

    I used to dream of being a stay-at-home mom, but life had other plans. And for a long time, I wrestled with that — with the feeling that my story didn’t go the way I thought it would. But somewhere along the way, I made peace with it.

    Because here’s the truth: every chapter, even the hard ones, is leading me exactly where I’m supposed to be. I may not have been home when my kids were little, but now I’m growing a new kind of “home life” — one that’s centered on my animals, my land, and my purpose.

    Each morning before work, when I’m out feeding goats or collecting eggs, I feel it — that small whisper that says, “Someday, this will be your every day.”

    Building Toward the Dream

    So for now, I’m working on the dream one piece at a time — through my blog, my courses, and every little bit of content I create. I want to help other people learn that homesteading isn’t just about animals and gardens — it’s about mindset, courage, and creating a life that feels real.

    Yes, quitting my job would be a risk. But it’s one I’m preparing for — slowly, intentionally, and with a lot of faith. I don’t want to leap out of fear or frustration; I want to step forward with peace, knowing I’ve built something solid enough to stand on.

    The Vision That Keeps Me Going

    When I picture the future, it looks like this: mornings spent with coffee and chores, afternoons writing and filming lessons about self-sufficiency, evenings in the garden with dirt on my hands and gratitude in my heart.

    And maybe, years from now, I’ll be out there homeschooling my grandkids under the shade of the same trees I planted — teaching them how to grow food, care for animals, and live simply. If that’s where life leads me, I’ll be more than okay with it.

    Because to me, success isn’t about escaping work — it’s about building a life that feels like home.

    💛 Your Turn

    What’s the biggest risk you’ve been dreaming about — but haven’t taken yet? Maybe it’s starting your own business, moving to the country, or finally saying “yes” to that thing that’s been tugging at your heart.

    Drop it in the comments — I’d love to hear what dream you’re growing toward. 🌿

  • Triple Play: An Honest Review

    Triple Play: An Honest Review

    Triple Play is a kids’ amusement park located in Hayden, Idaho. Advertised as “an award-winning family entertainment center,” it’s highly recommended for children of all ages. The park offers a variety of activities designed to engage kids, along with the added convenience of an attached hotel connected via a skywalk for easy access to and from the park. Last year, I planned a trip for my family of five and a night at the hotel as a Christmas present. We decided to visit in the spring, when the roads were safe to travel, but it wasn’t quite summer yet—perfect for enjoying the indoor water park, something we don’t have in our area. Our family plans trips every year, and this was our first getaway for the year.

    Overview

    Triple Play offers a variety of activities for all ages, including a rope course where you’re safely harnessed to the structure as you test your physical skills. There’s also a laser tag course, laser maze, several other rides, virtual reality games and activities, an arcade, mini golf, a full bowling alley, and bumper cars. Outdoors, they have bumper boats, Zipline Ride and go-karts. Unfortunately, when we arrived, it was snowing and hailing, so the outdoor attractions were unavailable.

    When I began researching Triple Play (after a friend recommended it when I mentioned I was looking for fun, new activities for the kids). The park’s website really hyped up the attractions, and I couldn’t help but compare it to Silverwood—on a smaller scale, of course—but I had high expectations. I soon learned that an “amusement park” is just classified as a venue offering various attractions such as rides, games, and other entertainment, so I adjusted my expectations accordingly. Even though it wasn’t what I expected, I still was going to make the best of our trip and have a good time.

    Experience

    Finding the establishment was easy, and I was surprised to see how centrally located it was. In fact, it was right next to a KFC. At first, I worried we had driven three hours just to visit a local family arcade. I had seen commercials for Triple Play and was expecting something more grand. Fortunately, we didn’t have to wait long at the front desk, and the pricing was clear and straightforward, with a variety of options available. They offered an ultimate pass for the day, which included everything, or an indoor ultimate pass (which we purchased since the outdoor attractions were closed for the day). You could also opt for a half-day pass, choose individual activities, or purchase two-day passes at a discount.

    Since we were staying at the hotel, we were eligible for a $5 discount per person on our day passes. However, because we arrived early in the morning to play and couldn’t check into the hotel until 4 p.m., they couldn’t give me the discount right away. The discount could only be applied if we had a hotel pass, signed by a resort worker. Still, they allowed me to return later in the day with my pass to get the discount, which they did honor. Now, you might be wondering: was $5 really worth the fuss? Well, yes, it was. That’s a whole dang pizza for our family. A family of five with day passes for Triple Play and a night at the hotel was an easy $600, so I’m going to save every penny I can.

    Food
    We decided to order food and eat in the park’s dining area for a quick and easy lunch. While we did have to wait a bit longer than expected, I completely understand that they were likely busy, and having worked in a food establishment myself, I know how tickets can pile up. However, I was a little disappointed to receive our food cold. I’d definitely recommend bringing a sack lunch if you can, especially if you’re planning on spending the whole day there. We chose to leave for dinner, but parking was a nightmare—so many people opt to stay on-site to avoid losing their parking spot, which made it clear how convenient it is to stay at the hotel if you’re planning to be there all day.

    Laser Tag
    The laser tag course at Triple Play was fantastic. We all played together as a family, and it was an absolute blast. The course was a two-level setup, and the instructions were clear and easy to follow. We had a great time, and it was definitely one of the highlights of the day.

    Rope Course
    My two sons participated in the rope course, which was a three-level adventure. The safety measures were great, as they were securely harnessed throughout the experience, and they had the freedom to move around the structure at their own pace. There’s no time limit, so they could take as long as they needed, which was great for their mobility and balance. It was a fun challenge, and they really enjoyed it.

    Virtual Reality
    They offered a couple of different virtual reality games, which was a unique experience for the kids. While they mostly participated in the typical VR activities (like putting on a headset and shooting at things), there was one particular experience called XD Dark Ride that stood out. It didn’t last long, but it was unlike anything I had ever tried before. It was a stationary “ride” where you wear 3D glasses and watch a movie, but it’s interactive, combining virtual reality with the film. To add to the experience, the chairs move, vibrate, and fans blow air in sync with the action on screen. We went on a scary clown roller coaster experience, and I’ll admit, it was intense! The roller coaster had us twisting and turning, with clowns popping up everywhere that we were supposed to shoot at while the ride tracked our points. It was a thrilling experience, though it almost made me sick (I had to remind myself it wasn’t real a few times). It’s definitely worth the wait, but I probably wouldn’t do it again!

    Bumper Cars, Mini Golf, Bowling
    I have absolutely nothing but positive things to say about the bumper cars, mini golf, and bowling. All of these activities were fun and well-executed. We had a blast with the bumper cars and mini golf, and the bowling alley was a great way to wind down after a day of other activities. There wasn’t anything particularly special about these attractions, but they were exactly what we expected—fun, family-friendly, and a nice way to take a break from the more intense experiences.

    Arcade
    The arcade was a bit challenging. When you purchase your passes, you’re given wristbands with small tags that are scanned for all activities. While this system works well for most things, it became a bit of a struggle in the arcade. Three of the five members of my family had issues with scanning the wristbands. While they gave us $7.50 to spend in the arcade as part of our ultimate day pass, the wristbands proved difficult to use. I asked three different staff members for help, but no one seemed willing or able to assist. They just pointed me to the self-scanner, which wasn’t helpful because that’s exactly where the issue was. What frustrated me the most wasn’t that the wristbands weren’t working—it was the lack of customer service. I simply wanted someone to show me how to use it properly or offer guidance. After several attempts, I was finally able to make it work, but it took a lot longer than it should have.

    Raptor Reef (Water Park)
    I have to admit, I was disappointed by Raptor Reef, the indoor water park. While I understand that popular attractions can get busy, I wasn’t expecting it to feel as cramped as it did. The space was much smaller than I anticipated, and it really felt more like a basic kids’ pool with a few slides. The water was freezing, it being advertised as an indoor heated area I would have expected more of a reasonable temperature. Especially considering the humid 80-85 degree environment, unfortunatly it didn’t really level out. It was just really hot air and really cold water. There was barely any seating, so I ended up setting my things on the ground in a corner. It definitely didn’t live up to the expectations set by the advertisements, and I was hoping for a bit more of an immersive experience

    Pros vs Cons

    Overall, Triple Play offers a fun and varied experience for families, but it’s not without its pros and cons. On the positive side, the park has a great selection of activities for kids and adults alike, including laser tag, a rope course, virtual reality games, bumper cars, mini golf, and bowling. The staff was generally friendly, and we appreciated the convenience of the attached hotel, making it easy to stay on-site. The variety of indoor activities, like the water park, was also a big plus, especially for families who don’t have access to similar attractions. However, there were some drawbacks. The food service was slow, and the food was cold by the time we received it, which was disappointing considering the price. The arcade experience was frustrating due to technical issues with the wristbands, and the lack of assistance from staff made it even more challenging. Additionally, the indoor water park, Raptor Reef, didn’t live up to the hype, feeling smaller and colder than expected. Parking was also a headache, and finding a spot was tricky with the high demand. While there’s plenty to do, it’s clear that Triple Play could benefit from some improvements in customer service and overall amenities to make the experience more seamless and enjoyable.

    Hotel

    The hotel itself was nice, and the staff were all very friendly, which made checking in and out a smooth process. It was especially convenient being so close to the park, as it made it easy to take breaks throughout the day—you could come and go as you pleased, which was a huge plus with kids. However, as expected for a child-friendly hotel, it was a bit noisy—there were little feet running up and down the hallways, and depending on where your room is located, you could hear the noise from the park as well. Since the park stays open until 11 p.m., I wouldn’t count on an early bedtime unless you’re okay with the sounds of the activities continuing into the evening. That said, the rooms were comfortable and spacious enough for our family of five. They had all the basic amenities we needed, and breakfast was provided with a good selection of options like oatmeal, cereal, fruit, pancakes, biscuits and gravy, juice, and coffee. Overall, it was a solid place to stay, especially for families, but be prepared for the lively atmosphere that comes with it!

    Value for the Money

    In terms of value for the money, Triple Play is fun, but it’s not something I’d recommend traveling long distances for unless your family has never experienced an amusement park before. While there are a variety of activities to enjoy, I don’t feel it’s an extravagant or unique experience that justifies a lengthy trip. If I had known what I know now, I probably wouldn’t have chosen it as a destination. It’s a solid local option for families nearby, but for those coming from further away, I think there are other parks that offer more for the price and travel time.

    Conclusion

    Overall, while Triple Play wasn’t perfect, we still had a great time as a family. The kids were thankful for the experience, and after all, that’s what matters most to me—I’m paying for the experience, and if they enjoyed themselves, then it was a win. They had a blast, and that made it all worthwhile. As one of my sons put it, “The rope course brought the parkour out of me, it was a lot of fun, so were the slides in the water park.” Another said, “My favorite thing was the rope course, it was challenging and helped me face my fear of heights.” My daughter commented “I like the laser tag—it was interactive and gave you something fun to do.” And when it came to the hotel, we all agreed: “The hotel was nice.” While I can’t say the trip was without its frustrations, the kids had a memorable time, and that’s what matters most. Would I recommend it to others? For a local getaway, sure—but for families traveling long distances, it might not be the most extravagant destination. However, for our family, the fun and the memories made it worth it in the end.

  • Casting for Kings: A Salmon Fishing Adventure

    Hooked On the Holiday

    The journey of transforming our Christmas celebrations began when my husband and I made a conscious decision to change our approach to gift giving. Instead of overwhelming our children with an abundance of gifts that, while appreciated, ultimately weren’t necessary, we opted to present them with unforgettable vacations—learning adventures that would create lasting memories. For Christmas 2023, we decided on a coastal getaway that would be far from the typical beach experience filled with sun and sand. Instead, we envisioned a unique escapade: renting a charter to venture into the depths of the ocean, where we would embark on a fishing expedition for salmon. This would be a first for all of us, promising excitement and new experiences that would redefine our holiday traditions.

    As the organizer of this exciting venture, I immersed myself in research to find the perfect charter service in the Astoria, Oregon area. Situated at the mouth of the Columbia River, this location is renowned for its prime fishing opportunities, offering a variety of options for enthusiasts. After careful consideration, I opted for “Black Dogg Guide Service,” run by a friendly individual who operates independently. His personalized approach definitely caught my interest. If you’re curious to learn more, I’ll provide the link to his website here. https://blackdoggguideservice.com/

    I initially discovered him through FishingBooker, which proved to be a fantastic resource for exploring various fishing charters in the region.

    Into the blue

    On the day of our outing, the weather proved to be unpredictable, prompting the captain to advise us to arrive at the dock an hour earlier to avoid the incoming winds. Our adventure began with a challenging crossing over a turbulent stretch of water where the ocean’s saltwater mingled with the river’s fresh currents. This initial journey was anything but smooth; the choppy seas forced us to remain inside the cabin for our safety. A sense of apprehension hung in the air, as it was our first experience navigating these waters, but we placed our trust in the captain, who had years of experience under his belt. With no prior knowledge of what to expect, nerves were palpable among us. Fortunately, after enduring that turbulent stretch, the water began to calm, allowing us to step out of the cabin and enjoy the adventure ahead.

    You ain’t got no legs Lieutenant Dan

    Before embarking on our adventure, my children and I ensured we were prepared for the potential woes of motion sickness by taking some motion sickness medication. My husband opted out of the medication, saying he wouldn’t need them. There are many different kinds however the captain recommended Bonine, so that is what we took. I wanted to make sure everyone could enjoy the excursion without discomfort. However, even with the medication in my system, I found myself teetering on the verge of nausea throughout much of the trip. While I managed to maintain my composure, there were several moments when I had to trade places with my kids, so I could sit at the back of the boat—just in case I needed to “chum the waters.”

    The stark contrast between my husband and I left me pondering why I experienced “sea sickness” with such severity while he seemed completely unaffected. Apparently when people refer to the term “sea legs”, it is more than just a phrase; it reflects a genuine phenomenon that many experience. Understanding why some individuals suffer from seasickness while others remain unaffected boils down to the interplay of their senses. When the signals that the eyes perceive don’t match up with what the inner ear feels, this dissonance can lead to that uncomfortable sensation of nausea. It’s amazing to me how different our bodies can react to different situations. Below is a picture of me taking a break in the cabin. Can you tell I was happy about heading back to shore?

    The fight: Angler vs Fish

    Fishing offers a serene escape, where one can gaze into the shimmering water and immerse in the beauty of nature. The tranquility is often interrupted by the exhilarating sight of the fishing pole’s tip bobbing eagerly, signaling a bite. The thrill and adrenaline of hooking a fish and skillfully reeling it in creates an exciting cycle, whether you choose to keep your catch or release it back into the water.


    For me, the experience of salmon fishing was completely new, and I quickly realized the significant difference in size and strength compared to other fish. The sheer size of the poles we used suggested we were in for an unforgettable adventure. Hooking a salmon in the ocean proved to be an experience unlike any other, as I clutched the pole tightly, battling the fierce pull of the fish as I attempted to reel it in. Each moment tested my strength and patience to the limit.


    After finally reeling it to the side of the boat, the captain netted the fish to guide it aboard. We would stun it by giving its head a gentle bop if it was still alive and the captain would then make a precise cut to bleed the fish out before storing it in the ice chest. Just like that, we were ready to move on to the next thrilling catch. With our tags allowing us each two fish, we generously shared rods to ensure that everyone aboard could relish in this remarkable experience.

    Natives

    A few of the fish we caught had to be released because they were native species. This designation indicates that these fish were born and raised in the wild, rather than being raised in hatcheries and later released by humans. One way to distinguish between hatchery salmon and their native counterparts is by observing an additional fin located on their back. This small nub, situated between the dorsal and tail fins, is known as the “adipose” fin. In hatcheries, this fin is typically removed, making it a clear marker of a fish’s origin.

    Catching more than just fish

    This unforgettable experience was truly a one-of-a-kind adventure for me, and despite the sickness I endured, it was absolutely worthwhile to create such a cherished memory for my family. If my kids decide that venturing out into the ocean again isn’t for them—honestly, I’m not eager to return myself—they can take comfort in the fact that they’ve had the chance to do so, and they can proudly say that we’ve sailed the seas together. We shared a plethora of emotions together from fear to excitement but we did it simultaneously and it is a memory we will all cherish. We will look back on this memory and remember the laughs, excitement and perhaps a laugh that mom was sick the whole time.

    Departing

    The day of our departure was marked by a mix of emotions. We felt a sense of exhaustion that lingered from an exciting, action-packed adventure the day before. Our feet ached, fatigue settled in, and thoughts of a restful car ride home provided a comforting anticipation. Although the coast trip was brief, it was deeply enjoyable and packed with unforgettable moments. As you scroll down, take a moment to appreciate the stunning view from our hotel that we admired the night prior to our journey home.

    From water to table: my favorite way to cook salmon

    Our commitment to conserving our catch allows us to savor our fresh salmon for months on end. Packed with omega-3 fatty acids, salmon offers a wealth of health benefits while delivering a delicious flavor. The versatility of salmon preparation leads to countless culinary possibilities, yet there’s one method that is my favorite and I’ll link it below.

    https://www.lecremedelacrumb.com/best-easy-healthy-baked-salmon/#wprm-recipe-container-25580