My Saturday reset: a ritual for a calm week ahead

Saturdays are quiet in my home. The world outside may be bustling, but I’ve learned that the best way to step into a new week is by taking the day slowly, with intention. For me, a Saturday reset means easing into the week with simple practices that bring calm and steadiness. Clearing the space I begin with the simplest task:…

Bringing homestead living into a small apartment

Homesteading often brings to mind sprawling gardens, chicken coops, and a pantry lined with jars of home-canned food. But the spirit of homesteading isn’t tied to acreage—it’s about self-sufficiency, creativity, and finding comfort in the everyday. Even in a small apartment, you can bring homestead values into your life in meaningful ways. Start with the windowsill You may not have…

My top 10 herbal teas I always keep on hand

A good cup of tea is more than just a drink—it’s a little moment of comfort in the middle of a busy day. Over the years, I’ve found myself reaching for certain herbs again and again, not only for their flavors but also for the way they support body and mind. Some calm, some brighten, some soothe when the seasons…

12 things to do before the first frost

My garden always seems to grow quieter when frost is on its way. The sun softens, the days feel stretched thin, and even the air carries a message of rest. This is the season when I like to walk slowly through my beds, gathering what’s ready, tidying what’s spent, and preparing the soil for its long winter sleep. These little rituals…

Spotting predators around your homestead

Life on a small homestead is often peaceful! Morning light on the garden, chickens fussing in their run, the quiet rhythm of daily chores. But woven into that calm is the reminder that we share our land with wild neighbors (in my case, raccoons and skunks, particularly). Predators are part of the natural balance, and noticing their presence early helps…

Oat-crumbed chicken tenders in the oven

Chicken tenders don’t have to be fried to taste like a treat. With a little help from oats, you get a crisp, golden coating that’s hearty enough to satisfy and gentle enough to feel wholesome. Oats lend fiber and a nutty flavor, and baking keeps things light without giving up crunch. It’s the kind of recipe you can make on…

Smoky molasses baked beans, skillet style

Beans have always been a steady friend in the garden and the kitchen. They’re rich in protein and fiber, and they enrich the soil as they grow, making them a natural choice for anyone curious about both nourishment and sustainability. Cooking them in a cast-iron skillet with a touch of molasses adds minerals and a mellow sweetness that feels a…

Pantry workhorses that still belong on your shelf

There’s comfort in cooking with quick mixes and freezer fixes, but if you open the pantry door a little wider, you may find some old-time staples that still whisper what works. Jars, tins, and simple sacks once stood ready for everyday cooking and lean seasons alike. These are the keepers that store well, stretch a meal, and do more than…

Seasonal teas you can brew straight from the garden

There’s something grounding about stepping outside, snipping a few fresh leaves or flowers, and steeping them into a simple cup of tea. Unlike a box from the grocery store, these teas carry the scent of the season and the satisfaction of being homegrown. They don’t require fancy tools or complicated recipes — just hot water, a mug, and a handful…

Ingredients that make every meal feel nourishing

When it comes to cooking, sometimes it isn’t about following the perfect recipe—it’s about choosing ingredients that bring a sense of balance, comfort, and vitality to whatever you’re making. A meal feels nourishing not just because it fills you up, but because it supports your body, soothes your mind, and connects you to something wholesome. Over time, I’ve learned that…