Tag: beginner homesteader

  • Homesteading Hacks: 15 Life-Changing Tips to Make Your Farm Work (and Your Life Easier)

    Homesteading Hacks: 15 Life-Changing Tips to Make Your Farm Work (and Your Life Easier)

    Homesteading—it’s a lifestyle that’s all about getting your hands dirty, coming up with creative solutions, and living a simpler, self-sustaining life. But let’s be honest, sometimes that “simpler” part gets lost when you find yourself knee-deep in chores, tangled in garden hoses, or trying to herd a stubborn goat back into its pen (again).

    Luckily, there are a few homesteading hacks that will save you time, energy, and perhaps a little bit of your sanity. From clever ways to organize your tools to brilliant tricks for managing your animals, here are 15 life-changing homesteading hacks to make your farm work—and your life easier.

    1. Use an Old Ladder as a Tool Organizer

    That old wooden ladder you’ve been meaning to fix? Turn it into a tool rack! Just hang it horizontally wherever you want some rustic charm. The rungs can hold hoes, shovels, and even your gardening gloves. It’s a quirky yet functional solution to your tool clutter, and hey, it gives your barn a bit of farmhouse charm.

    2. DIY Bug Repellent with Essential Oils

    You love the great outdoors, but bugs…. Not so much? Instead of buying expensive chemical bug sprays, make your own using essential oils. A simple recipe: mix 10-20 drops of lavender, peppermint, or citronella oil with some water in a spray bottle, and boom—you’ve got a natural bug repellent that works wonders and smells much better than the store-bought stuff. Plus, your goats will appreciate the lavender scent.

    3. Repurpose Empty Egg Cartons for Seed Starting

    No need to spend a fortune on seed-starting trays. Those empty egg cartons you have piling up in the kitchen? They’re perfect for starting seeds! Simply fill each compartment with soil, drop in your seeds, and watch them grow. Plus, once the seedlings are ready, you can plant the whole carton in the ground—no need to remove them. The cardboard will biodegrade over time, making it an eco-friendly alternative.

    4. Make a Homemade Chicken Feeder with PVC Pipe

    Tired of constantly refilling your chicken’s feeder? A simple PVC pipe can solve your problem. Just grab a piece of PVC pipe, a few elbows, and T-joints from your local hardware store, and voilà! You’ve got an automatic feeder that prevents waste and gives your chickens access to food throughout the day. Bonus points if it’s elevated off the ground to keep things cleaner.

    5. Use Milk Jugs to Protect New Plants

    If you’ve ever had a young plant fall victim to the chilly early spring nights, you’ll love this hack: use empty milk jugs to protect your tender plants! Cut the bottom off a plastic milk jug, and place it over your new plant as a mini greenhouse. It’ll keep the frost off, and the sun will still get through the clear plastic. Plus, it’s free and recycling at its finest!

    6. Label Your Seeds with Popsicle Sticks

    In the whirlwind of spring planting, it’s easy to forget what you planted where. So, grab a pack of popsicle sticks, and use them as plant labels. Simply write the name of the plant with a permanent marker, and stick them in the soil. Not only is this an easy and affordable way to keep track of your garden, but it also makes you feel like an arts and crafts pro.

    7. Repurpose Old T-Shirts as Shop or Garden Rags

    Those old, holey t-shirts you’ve been hanging onto make excellent shop or garden rags. Cut them up and use them to wipe hands, clean tools, handle muddy pots, or protect your skin during quick garden jobs. They’re washable, reusable, and perfect for the homestead — even if they’re no longer wearable. It’s an easy way to reduce waste and get a little more use out of something you already have.

    8. The One-Bucket Homestead Hack

    Keep one sturdy bucket by the door and let it do multiple jobs. It can collect kitchen scraps for chickens or compost, haul garden tools, carry weeds, hold feed scoops, or catch random homestead messes that pop up throughout the day. It’s simple, flexible, and saves you from walking back and forth ten times. Sometimes the best homestead systems aren’t fancy — they’re just convenient.

    9. Reuse Containers for Simple Homestead Storage

    You don’t need to buy special organizers for your homestead. Old containers you already have — coffee cans, jars, tins, yogurt tubs, plastic bins — can be repurposed for all kinds of storage. They work great for seeds, bolts and screws, garden labels, small tools, animal supplements, and odds and ends that tend to get lost. Label them, stack them, and keep them where you actually use them. It’s not fancy, but it’s practical, saves money, and keeps clutter from taking over. Homesteading isn’t about having matching storage — it’s about making what you have work.

    10. Store Bedding Where You Actually Use It

    Instead of hauling bedding back and forth every time the coop needs freshening, keep a small bin or bag stored right inside or near the coop. Being able to quickly toss in a fresh layer makes maintenance faster and keeps small messes from turning into big cleanups. Simple access beats perfect storage every time.

    11. Keep Hoses Where They’re Needed

    If you have multiple garden or animal areas, it’s often easier to keep one hose permanently assigned to each spot instead of moving one hose everywhere. Less dragging, less wear and tear, and way less frustration.

    12. Collect Rainwater Where It Makes Sense

    Rainwater can be a great supplemental water source for gardens, especially during dry stretches. If it’s legal where you live, collecting rainwater in a simple barrel or container can help reduce water use and stretch your resources. Even a small setup can be useful for watering plants, filling watering cans, or spot-watering beds. Just remember — rainwater systems don’t have to be fancy to be helpful, and they work best as part of a bigger plan, not a cure-all. Always check local regulations, and start small to see what actually works for your space and climate.

    13. Use Scented Plants as a Gentle Pest Deterrent

    Instead of relying on one product to fix pest problems, adding strongly scented plants around your garden and home can help deter some insects naturally. Mint and lavender are two popular options — just make sure to plant mint in containers, not directly in the ground, unless you want it taking over everything. These plants won’t eliminate pests entirely, but they can help reduce pressure when used alongside other good garden practices. Think of them as part of a layered approach, not a cure-all.

    14. Use Free Pallets Instead of Buying New Materials

    Old pallets are often free and easy to find, which makes them a practical shortcut for homestead projects. Instead of buying new lumber, pallets can be repurposed for quick fixes like garden borders, compost bin walls, temporary fencing, or simple storage solutions. They’re not meant to be permanent or perfect, but they allow you to solve problems fast and cheaply using what’s available. When you’re learning as you go, pallets give you flexibility without a big investment — which is exactly what a good homestead hack should do.

    15. Air-Dry Herbs Using a Clothesline or Simple Hanging Space

    Drying herbs doesn’t require special equipment or a dehydrator. A clothesline, drying rack, or even a simple string indoors works just fine. Tie herbs in small bundles and hang them in a dry, well-ventilated space out of direct sunlight. This low-effort method saves energy, preserves flavor, and lets you work with what you already have. It’s a simple, old-fashioned solution that still holds up — especially for small batches.

    Final Thoughts: Homesteading Doesn’t Have to Be Hard—Just Clever

    Homesteading doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive to be rewarding. Most of the time, the best “hacks” are simply finding easier ways to do the things you’re already doing — using what you have, building systems that make sense for your space, and letting go of the idea that everything needs to be perfect. Try one or two of these ideas, skip the ones that don’t fit your homestead, and adjust as you go. That’s how real homestead routines are built. And if you’re looking for more simple, practical tools to help you stay organized and confident, be sure to check out my Freebie Hub for free printables all about homesteading. I’ll link it below so you can grab what fits your life right now. 🙂

    Freebie Hub
  • 7 Pantry Staples Every Homesteader Should Have Year-Round

    7 Pantry Staples Every Homesteader Should Have Year-Round

    A well-stocked pantry is the heartbeat of any homestead. Whether you’re deep in canning season or throwing together a last-minute dinner, having reliable staples on hand makes everything smoother.

    Over the years, I’ve learned that there are a few items I never let myself run out of — simple, versatile ingredients that stretch meals, preserve food, and keep us prepared for whatever comes our way.

    Here are my 7 must-have pantry staples that every homesteader should keep stocked year-round.

    1. Dried Beans and Lentils

    They’re affordable, filling, and incredibly versatile. Dried beans and lentils can be used in soups, stews, casseroles, or canned for quick, ready meals. Lentils cook faster and don’t need soaking, which makes them perfect for those days when you forget to plan dinner.

    💡 Tip: Store in airtight jars or food-grade buckets with oxygen absorbers to extend shelf life. Rotate them yearly for freshness.

    2. Flour and Grains

    Flour is the base for so many homestead staples — bread, pancakes, biscuits, tortillas, you name it. I like to keep both all-purpose and whole wheat flour, along with oats, cornmeal, and rice (more on rice below!). These shelf-stable grains can carry you through busy seasons or lean times.

    💡 Tip: Freeze flour for 48 hours before long-term storage to prevent pests. Then transfer it to airtight containers.

    3. Rice

    Rice deserves its own category because of how versatile and long-lasting it is. It pairs with nearly any meal and stores beautifully. We keep both white rice (for long-term storage) and brown rice (for flavor and nutrition, though it has a shorter shelf life).

    💡 Tip: Store rice in sealed containers or mylar bags with oxygen absorbers. A 5-gallon bucket can hold around 35 pounds — that’s a lot of meals!

    4. Salt — The Ultimate Preserver

    Salt isn’t just for flavor — it’s a tool for survival. It’s essential for curing meat, fermenting vegetables, and preserving food. I always keep sea salt for everyday cooking and pickling salt for canning.

    💡 Tip: Skip iodized salt for canning projects — it can cloud your jars and change the taste.

    5. Home-Canned Meat and Broth

    Few things make me happier than seeing rows of home-canned meat and broth on my shelves. It’s convenient, shelf-stable protein ready for any meal. Whether it’s turkey, chicken, or beef, I can throw together soups, dips, and casseroles in minutes — no thawing required.

    💡 Tip: Check out my post on From Freezer to Pantry: How I Pressure Can Turkey for Long-Term Storage for exact times and steps.

    6. Tomatoes and Tomato Products

    Tomatoes are one of the most versatile ingredients in the pantry — think sauces, soups, stews, chili, and salsa. Every year, I can plenty of diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and paste so we’re set until next harvest.

    💡 Tip: Add bottled lemon juice or citric acid when canning to keep the acidity safe for storage.

    7. Vinegar

    If I could only keep one “multi-tool” in my kitchen, it would be vinegar. It’s used for cleaning, pickling, cooking, canning, and even animal care. I keep both white distilled vinegar (for cleaning and canning) and apple cider vinegar (for marinades, dressings, and even goat care!).

    💡 Tip: Store vinegar in a cool, dark place. It lasts indefinitely when sealed properly.

    Final Thoughts

    A well-stocked pantry is about more than just food — it’s about security, simplicity, and peace of mind. When you build your pantry with intention, you’re not just preparing for busy seasons; you’re investing in your family’s independence year-round.

    These seven staples have earned a permanent spot in my pantry because they’re versatile, affordable, and practical — the kind of ingredients that keep our homestead running, no matter the season.

    What’s one item you can’t live without in your pantry? Let me know in the comments below!

  • Turn Your Homestead Animals Into Income: 7 Side Hustles You Can Start Today

    Turn Your Homestead Animals Into Income: 7 Side Hustles You Can Start Today

    Homesteading isn’t just about saving money—it can also be a way to make money! Whether you’re trying to pay for feed, fund future projects, or build a part-time income stream, your animals can do more than just provide food for your table. They can also help support your homestead financially.Here are 7 creative and practical ways to turn your animals into a profitable side hustle—no giant farm required.

    1. Sell Fresh Eggs

    Let’s start with the obvious one—eggs are selling like crazy. People are sick of the unreliable grocery stores and looking for farm fresh. So if you have a flock of laying hens or ducks, you can easily sell extra eggs to friends, neighbors, or at your local farmers market.

    Tips to boost egg sales:

    • Use a cute egg carton label with your farm name.( Mine say “Becky’s FarmFresh Butt Nuggets)
    • Offer delivery or pickup once a week.

    Educate people on why your eggs are better (free-range, no soy, etc.). Or if you have ducks you can explain the nutrient differences compared to chickens. If you don’t know check out this article.

    Duck Eggs vs Chicken Eggs: Key Differences Explained

    2. Hatch and Sell Chicks or Ducklings

    If you have a rooster or drake and an incubator (or a broody mama), you’re in business! Selling chicks or ducklings is an excellent way to earn extra cash, especially in spring.

    People are always looking for:

    • Laying breeds (like Buff Orpingtons or Khaki Campbells)
    • Meat birds
    • Rare or heritage breeds

    Just make sure you follow any local laws and sell at a few weeks old if your customers aren’t equipped for brooding.

    A Beginner’s Guide to Incubating Duck Eggs: From Setting Up the Incubator to Duckling Care

    3. Sell Compost or Aged Manure

    Chicken, goat, rabbit, and even duck manure makes amazing compost for gardeners—and people will pay for it!

    If you compost it properly and offer it by the bag or scoop, you can turn waste into a steady income stream, especially in the spring and summer months when gardens are going strong.

    4. Offer Farm-Fresh Fertilized Eggs

    Fertilized eggs are in high demand for folks who want to hatch their own birds at home. This is an easy add-on if you already have a rooster or drake with your flock.

    Make sure to:

    • Collect and store eggs carefully.
    • Label them clearly as fertilized and hatching-ready.
    • Ship or deliver them quickly to maintain viability.

    5. Sell Animal Fiber (Goats, Rabbits, Alpacas)

    If you have fiber animals like Angora rabbits or goats, you can sell their fiber raw, washed, or even spun into yarn. Fiber arts are a booming niche, and people love buying natural products directly from small farms.

    Even small amounts can sell for a premium if you market them right.

    6. Rent Out Your Animals for Events or Education

    This one’s a bit outside the box—but highly profitable! Some people are willing to pay for:

    • Mobile petting zoos
    • Educational visits to schools or libraries
    • Goat yoga (yes, it’s a real thing!)
    • Seasonal farm photo shoots

    If your animals are friendly and well-socialized, you can turn them into local celebrities and charge for their time.

    7. Sell Value-Added Products

    Take what your animals give you and turn it into something more valuable:

    • Make and sell homemade soaps with goat milk
    • Sell egg-based baked goods (check local laws first)
    • Package and sell dehydrated dog treats made from farm-raised meat

    The more unique and branded your product is, the better it will sell!

    Bonus Tip: Share Your Journey Online

    Document your homesteading life on social media, YouTube, or a blog. You’d be surprised how many people want to learn from you—and that audience can eventually become a source of income through affiliate links, digital products, or courses.

    Final Thoughts

    You don’t need a huge farm to make money with animals—you just need a little creativity and the willingness to hustle. Whether you’re selling eggs or hosting goat yoga, these small income streams can add up and help support the lifestyle you love.

    Start with one idea, test it out, and watch your homestead go from hobby to hustle.

  • How to Raise Chickens on a Budget: A Beginner’s Guide

    How to Raise Chickens on a Budget: A Beginner’s Guide

    Raising chickens is one of the most rewarding things you can do on a homestead—fresh eggs, natural pest control, and endless entertainment! But if you’ve been holding off because you’re worried about the cost, we’ve got good news: you can absolutely raise chickens without breaking the bank.

    With a little creativity and planning, it’s possible to start and maintain a healthy flock on a tight budget. Here’s how to do it:

    Start Small and Smart

    You don’t need a massive flock to get started. Begin with 3–6 hens—enough to give you regular eggs but not so many that feed and housing costs get overwhelming. Many beginners also choose to skip the rooster if they’re not planning to hatch eggs (and want to avoid noise complaints!).

    Build Your Own Coop (or Upcycle One)

    Coops can get expensive fast—some premade ones cost hundreds of dollars. But chickens don’t care about fancy. Use scrap wood, pallets, or even an old shed to build your own coop. Check local classifieds or Facebook Marketplace for free or cheap materials—or even an unused dog house you can convert!Just make sure it’s predator-proof, dry, and well-ventilated.

    Chicken Coop Building 101

    Buy Chicks from Local Sources

    Hatcheries are great, but you might find better prices buying chicks locally—especially from farm swaps, feed stores, or other homesteaders. Some people even give away extra chicks for free or cheap in spring.

    Bonus tip: Don’t go overboard with rare or fancy breeds if you’re on a budget. Stick with hardy, reliable layers like Rhode Island Reds, Australorps, or Buff Orpingtons.

    Feed Them Smarter

    Feed can be one of the biggest ongoing costs—but there are ways to slash that bill:

    • Ferment your feed (it stretches farther and improves digestion).
    • Give kitchen and garden scraps (they love veggie peels, bread ends, and more).
    • Let them free-range when safe to supplement their diet with bugs and greens.
    • Grow your own feed, like sunflowers, pumpkins, and greens.
    10 Ways to Save Money on Animal Feed Without Sacrificing Nutrition

     Use DIY Waterers and Feeders

    You don’t need expensive feeders or waterers. A 5-gallon bucket and a few nipples or PVC pipe can make a perfect gravity-fed waterer. Same goes for feeders—there are tons of easy, low-cost DIY tutorials out there.

    Skip the Heat Lamp (If You Can)

    If you’re raising chicks in spring or summer and can brood them inside, you might not need a heat lamp running 24/7. A well-insulated brooder with a heating pad or a safe radiant heater can cost less to run and be safer overall.

    Keep It Clean to Avoid Medical Expenses

    Healthy chickens = fewer expenses. Keep their coop clean, dry, and well-ventilated to avoid disease. Give them grit, oyster shell, and fresh water. A little prevention goes a long way toward saving money down the road.

    Raising Chickens for Beginners: Everything You Need to Know

    Barter with Other Homesteaders

    Need a rooster? Extra feed? Materials for a coop? Try trading! Many homesteaders love to barter, and you might be able to swap eggs, labor, or produce for what you need. Check local homesteading or farming groups online.

    Bartering Basics: How to Trade Goods and Services in Your Homesteading Community

    Reuse What You Have

    Before you buy anything, look around your property. Can you turn an old dog crate into a brooder? Repurpose old fence posts for a chicken run? Use leftover wire for a predator screen? Homesteading on a budget is all about creativity.

    Let Your Chickens Work for You

    Chickens don’t just give you eggs—they’re also great composters, pest controllers, and tillers. Let them help in the garden, turn compost, and reduce your need for pesticides or fertilizers. That’s money saved across your whole homestead!

    Final Thoughts

    You don’t need a lot of money to raise happy, productive chickens. With a few frugal hacks and a little elbow grease, you can build a thriving flock that earns its keep and brings joy to your homestead.

    Start simple, stay resourceful, and enjoy every quirky, egg-laying minute of it!

  • Getting Garden Stuff Done Early: One Step at a Time

    Getting Garden Stuff Done Early: One Step at a Time

    As a full-time working mom of three, it can feel like there’s never enough time in the day to get everything done. Between work, kids’ schedules, house chores, and the usual chaos of family life, the idea of gardening can sometimes feel like an impossible dream. But here’s the truth: if you want your garden to thrive, starting early and taking it one step at a time is the way to go. 

    For me, gardening is more than growing my ownfood and being self-sufficient—it’s a way to create something beautiful and peaceful in the middle of my busy, sometimes overwhelming life. But with everything else going on, I’ve had to learn to approach it in a way that fits into my lifestyle. I don’t always have the luxury of spending hours outside every weekend, but I can make steady progress in small, manageable chunks. And you know what? It works.

    Why I Start So Early

    Some might say I start too early, but for me, every weekend counts when it comes to preparing my garden for the season. Instead of cramming everything into a couple of weekends in the spring, I break it down and chip away at tasks bit by bit. This gives me the freedom to work on what needs to be done when I have time, without feeling overwhelmed.

    Starting early also helps avoid that feeling of panic when you realize it’s already planting time and you haven’t even prepped the soil. By starting in early, I can get a head start on things like cleaning up the garden beds, pulling weeds, and organizing my tools. This way, when it’s finally time to plant, I can focus solely on that—without distractions.

    Small Steps for Big Results

    It’s all about taking small steps and making them work for my lifestyle. Some weekends, I’ll focus on one task—maybe I’ll plant a few flowers, clean up an area, or lay down mulch. Other weekends, I might just spend an hour trimming or pruning. But with each little task, I’m moving closer to my goal.

    What works for me is that I never try to do everything at once. I’ve learned the hard way that pushing too hard leads to burnout. But by spreading it out, I feel a sense of accomplishment each time I complete something, even if it’s just one small part of the bigger picture.

    The Struggle of Doing It on My Own

    I won’t lie—sometimes it’s a struggle. As a busy mom, I often find myself doing things on my own. It’s tough to find the time and energy to work on the garden with everything else going on. But this is where the power of routine and small victories comes in. I set aside time in the mornings or evenings, It doesn’t matter if it’s just 15 minutes here or there; those small moments add up.

    And on the weekends, when my husband can help out or the kids are home(and willing) enough to pitch in, it feels like a win. They might not always be into gardening, but teaching them how to plant or water the garden is a great way to get them involved and make it a family activity. Plus, it helps me feel less overwhelmed when I have a little extra support.

    Embracing the Journey, Not Just the Result

    I’ve learned that the process of gardening, like everything else in life, is about balance. The final product is important, but the journey of getting there is just as rewarding. By taking it one step at a time and starting early, I can make steady progress without feeling like I’m falling behind. 

    I’ve found that gardening, especially when you have a busy lifestyle, is about being patient with yourself. There will be weekends where things don’t go according to plan. There will be days when you’re too tired or have too many other things on your plate. But as long as you keep showing up, even in small ways, your garden will thank you.

    So, if you’re juggling a busy schedule like I am, don’t stress about having a perfect garden or finishing it all at once. Start early, work in small bursts, and most importantly—make it work for you. By taking it one step at a time, you’ll find that the garden you’ve dreamed of can come to life, even in the midst of your busy life.

    What’s your favorite garden task to tackle early in the season? I’d love to hear how you make gardening fit into your lifestyle!

  • Balancing It All: Time Management for Parents & Homesteaders

    Balancing It All: Time Management for Parents & Homesteaders

    Life as a full-time worker, parent, and homesteader can feel like a juggling act with more balls in the air than you can count. Between the demands of your job, raising a family, and maintaining a thriving homestead, it’s easy to feel like there aren’t enough hours in the day. Yet, with careful planning, prioritization, and a few clever strategies, it’s possible to make it all work without completely burning out.  

    In this article, I’ll share practical tips and insights for managing your time effectively while embracing the joys (and challenges) of this unique, full-filling lifestyle.  

    Set Priorities (And Be Honest About Them)

    With so many responsibilities, it’s essential to prioritize what truly matters to you.  

    Ask Yourself: What are your non-negotiables? For example, maybe family dinners, keeping up with your job, and maintaining a vegetable garden are at the top of your list. So make sure you don’t add anything into your routine that could compromise those important ‘duties’. You want this journey to work for you and with you not against you.

    Let Go of Perfection: Not everything will get done every day, and that’s okay. Learn to let go of tasks that aren’t urgent or meaningful in the grand scheme.  There is always tomorrow and the next day to get things done. Stick to your priorities and then, just do what you can.

    Write down your weekly goals for work, family, and the homestead. Then, rank them in order of importance to stay focused on what really needs your attention. This will help you stay organized and on task throughout the week.

    Master the Art of Scheduling  

    A detailed schedule is your best friend when you’re managing so many roles.  

    Use a Planner or App: Whether it’s a physical planner or a digital app, keep track of work meetings, kids’ activities, appointments, and homestead chores all in one place.  

    Time Block Your Day: Dedicate blocks of time for specific tasks. For example:  

      – Mornings: Feed animals and prep for the day.  

      – Lunchtime: Check emails and manage quick homestead tasks like watering plants.  

      – Evenings: Focus on family time and meal prep.  

    Batch Similar Tasks: Group similar tasks together to save time. For instance, harvest vegetables and clean animal pens in the same afternoon rather than spreading them across days.  

    Involve Your Family  

    Homesteading is a lifestyle, and it can be a wonderful way to bond with your family. Involving your kids and partner not only teaches valuable life skills but also lightens your load.  

    Age-Appropriate Tasks for Kids:  

      – Younger kids can help collect eggs or water plants.  

      – Older kids can assist with animal care, weeding, or even learning to cook.  

    Make It Fun: Turn chores into games or competitions to keep kids engaged.  

    Divide and Conquer: If your partner is willing, split responsibilities to cover more ground. For example, one person can handle morning animal feedings while the other tackles meal prep.  

    If you want ideas to help involve your kiddos you can check out this video:

    Meal Prep Like a Pro

    As a busy parent and homesteader, meal prep is a lifesaver.  

    Cook in Bulk: Make large batches of soups, casseroles, or stews on the weekends to freeze and reheat during the week.  

    Use What You Grow: Plan meals around what’s in season on your homestead. Not only does this save money, but it also reduces the stress of figuring out what to cook.  

    Simplify Weeknight Dinners: Keep weeknight meals simple, like stir-fries, pasta, or salads using fresh ingredients.  

    If you want more information on meal prepping check out my article on whether it would be worth it to you:

    Is Meal Prepping Worth It?

    I also linked my other article on why I meal prep. It includes tips and tricks if you want to get started:

    Why I meal Prep: Benefits, Tips, and How to get Started Today

    Embrace Early Mornings (or Late Nights)  

    Quiet hours in the early morning or late at night can be the perfect time to tackle projects without interruptions. I personally use this time to workout, read a book or meditate.

    Morning Routine: Use the early hours for essential homestead tasks, like feeding animals or checking the garden.  

    Evening Routine: Wind down your day with quieter activities, like planning, journaling, or prepping for the next day.  

    Find the time of day when you feel most productive and reserve it for tasks that require focus.  

    Automate and Streamline Tasks  

    When you’re stretched thin, look for ways to make your tasks easier and more efficient.  

    Invest in Time-Saving Tools: Automatic chicken feeders, drip irrigation systems, and other homesteading tools can save you hours each week.  

    Batch Chores: For example, clean all animal pens on one day instead of spreading the task out.  

    Simplify Workflows: Create a routine for repetitive tasks so they become second nature.  

    Practice Self-Care (Even When It’s Hard)

    It’s tempting to skip self-care when you’re busy, but taking care of yourself is crucial to maintaining energy and focus.  

    Schedule Breaks: Even 10 minutes of quiet time can make a difference.  

    Stay Active: Physical activity on the homestead is great, but don’t forget to stretch, hydrate, and move mindfully.  

    Rest Guilt-Free: Remember, taking time to recharge isn’t selfish—it’s necessary.  

    Learn to Say No

    You can’t do everything, and that’s okay. Learn to say no to commitments or activities that don’t align with your priorities.  

    Focus on What Matters Most: Decline social events or unnecessary projects that take time away from your family, job, or homestead.  

    Be Realistic: Accept that some seasons will be busier than others, and it’s okay to scale back when needed.  

    Celebrate Small Wins

    Managing work, family, and homesteading is no small feat, and it’s important to acknowledge your accomplishments.  

    Reflect on Progress: At the end of each week, take a moment to reflect on what you achieved, no matter how small.  

    Reward Yourself: Treat yourself and your family to something special, like a home-cooked meal, movie night, or a quiet evening under the stars.  

    Remember Your “Why” 

    When the days feel overwhelming, remember why you chose this lifestyle in the first place. Whether it’s teaching your kids the value of hard work, connecting with nature, or living a more sustainable life, keeping your “why” in mind can help you push through the tough moments.  

    Final Thoughts  

    Managing time as a full-time worker, parent, and homesteader isn’t easy, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. By prioritizing, planning, and involving your family, you can create a lifestyle that balances your responsibilities while leaving room for joy and growth.  

    The key is to stay flexible, forgive yourself when things don’t go as planned, and find beauty in the chaos. After all, homesteading isn’t about perfection—it’s about progress and embracing a life you love.  

    How do you manage your time as a busy homesteader? Share your tips or challenges in the comments below—I’d love to hear from you!