Adventures of an urban homesteader growing greens, preserving the harvest and tending a backyard barnyard
It was strange and sad not hearing the quacking of ducks outside our living room window when we re-homed them a couple weeks ago. I realize that most people would find quacking outside the living room window incredibly odd, but that just became the new norm here. Our plan was to replace the ducks with more chickens, adding to our existing flock. I am happy
One of my favorite breakfasts is a simple soft-boiled egg or two served with thick, crusty buttered bread. Only backyard eggs will fit the bill. The soft-boiled egg leaves no distraction, so the egg itself must be packed with rich flavor. Even organic, free-range eggs from the story just don’t compare. I am always amazed at how many folks don’t know how to properly boil
April has stirred the garden to life and I wanted to share some of those signs of beauty with you this morning. Of course there is a lot to be done this season, but this moment in time reminds me that there is a lot to cherish as well. By June we will be swimming in currants! Both red and black, our many currants shrubs
We have really loved adding Indian Runner ducks to our backyard livestock mix, but it has been a challenge to keep up with their needs over the last year. Although I had reservations, Jay has been patiently making the case to simplify our backyard livestock. We agreed to find a new home for the ducks and instead add to our existing chicken flock. I still
Building a compost bin system is one of the first things I do when I move into a new place. It feels good to know I am working on building good soil even before my boxes are unpacked inside. My three bin system ensures we have a constant supply of compost “cooking” outside: one pile we are adding organic matter into, one pile that is
Starting your vegetables from seed is not for the faint of heart, but it can be really rewarding for those willing to put in the time and effort. The primary advantages of starting seeds are choosing from a wider range of vegetable varieties, having more control over the size and vigor of your plants, and saving some money. But don’t get too excited about saving
Our fence is lined with ever-bearing raspberries, a wonderful addition to our edible landscape. Just as the name implies, ever-bearing raspberries will give you a continual harvest throughout the summer and fall. They do well in our Pacific NW climate and are a carefree addition to the homestead. The berries deteriorate quickly after harvest, which is why growing your own is really the best way
Run, don’t walk, to grab your Spring 2013 copy of Country Gardens magazine (on sale March 12th). I wrote an article for this issue all about my journey through modern homesteading. They did a fabulous photo shoot of our homestead, so you can enjoy all kinds of gorgeous garden inspiration. I am so giddy to be a part of this national publication. James Bagget, the
We snagged a beach house for the weekend with an amazing ocean view to show off the Pacific Northwest to family visiting from out of town. It was near the small coastal town of Cannon Beach in Oregon, a community studded with art galleries, coffeeshops, a brew pub and a great fish market. It just so happens that the market owns their own crabbing boats
Why haven’t I started my indoor seeds yet? Because I have been too busy celebrating a year of motherhood with my little Leapling, Juniper. She came into the world on February 29th last year as the snow was gently falling. I remember the first walk we took to the park in our neighborhood when she met Winter Daphne, one of my favorite early blooming flowers.
