Homesteading and Homemaking with Bobby

How to Knead Whole Wheat Dough.

2012-01-17T07:55:00.000-08:00

It's cloudy, temps are dropping and we have snow flurries. It's great to be indoors today. I think I will make some homemade wheat bread. Nothing warms the home and heart any better than having fresh bread smells wafting through the house.

Have you had trouble kneading whole wheat dough? I know it gets really sticky and a person is tempted to either throw water or flour on it right a way. But don't .. instead, read the article on how to knead whole wheat bread and see if it keeps you from pulling your hair out!!

Maybe this will tempt you to make some homemade whole wheat bread today!

Have a lovely day..no matter what you are doing.

HOW TO KNEAD WHOLE WHEAT DOUGH

Homesteading and Homemaking with Bobby is hopefully back!

2012-01-13T08:37:00.000-08:00

After a really long absence, I think I am back for a while. I hope you are all enjoying your winter, ours has just started the last couple of days. Up until then, the temps were flirting with 50s and almost 60. The harsh reality of sub zero temperatures, and 20 mile an hour winds with snow, is our new reality!

While I was gone, "Tootie" our beloved dog, passed away. She was 20 or better and we finally had to help her go home. We had her so long and she was such a loving part of our family. I haven't been able to talk about Toot since we had her put down. I didn't realize how much time I was spending in taking care of her special needs. Quite frankly, I was lost without her.

But, God sees us through the tough times. I have a new friend, "Fritz". You will be reading more about this youngster in the days ahead. He is quite a handful and the best company since, well since Tootie.

I'm sure you all have had trials and know that I am rooting for all of you. Let's start out this new year with some helpful suggestions and tips for others. What is working for you? Have you got something to shout about? Have a new/old recipe to share? How about a new product?

I look forward to you all contributing to the discussions...and as always, I pray you have a wonderful day!

til later...

Drought and Hay Shortage Affect Prices and Herds

2011-09-13T16:03:00.000-07:00

Hope all are well..the homestead and family are doing fine here...all praise to God. We had a couple of showers and although it was probably too late for hay fields..it did green the pastures up a wee bit. Hay around here is definitely at a shortage and it is really bringing a high price. But no matter..when we start feeling bad about it..we think of the Texans and those in Oklahoma that have been under extreme drought conditions for months on end. Then we feel mighty blessed.

Drought and Hay Shortage Affect Prices and Herds

For those of you dealing with some tough choices on whether or not to keep your herds, are hearts are with you. For those of you lucky enough not to be experiencing such hardship, please, thank God and say a prayer for those in need.

See ya all later!

I'm back, tired and ready to chat!

2011-08-25T07:56:00.000-07:00

Well it's certainly been a long time since we chatted here. The summer has gone from extremely wet in the spring to drought now. The extreme heat was a challenge as far as the garden and livestock go. But praise be to God, we all made it through.

The garden has been consuming my time the last month. Canning was at pitch fever but is ebbing a bit. I still need to can more potatoes and carrots. Next month we will be butchering and I will probably can between 70 and 100 pounds of beef. I am going to need some rest..I think it's called winter.

How are all of you? I am going to try hard to keep in communication daily. Please get after me if I don't!

Until tomorrow...don't work too hard..but enjoy the bounty!

Finally..summer weather!

2011-06-28T15:41:00.000-07:00

Southeast Iowa has had plenty of rainy cool days so far. But the temps are on their way up this week! Not much hay has been made around here yet..that makes livestock owners, like us, very nervous. But when we look at the drought conditions in the south, the floods in the midwest..it's impossible to complain about our weather here.

The garden has survived bugs and rainy cool days. The peppers seem to be perking up at the sight of the sun and its heat. It was literally a perfect day today. Ah..but aren't they all?

Hope to get back to daily posting..best to you all.

How to freeze strawberries!!

2011-06-06T09:06:00.000-07:00

Wow..been gone from the board for a few days!! You know that saying..life happens!?! Hope all of you are well and prayers go out to all who have been suffering from the floods, fires and tornados.

It's supposed to be well over 90 and humid here today. So first thing this morning..I picked strawberries. If you are a first timer at raising strawberries..you may want a little information on how to freeze them. It is so easy and you will love having strawberry shortcake, malts and sauces in the middle of winter!

Go here How to freeze strawberries. It's berry easy!

Have a great day~~

2011-04-29T10:09:00.000-07:00

Sometimes we go "out in the World" here on the homestead. Topics of weather and crops affect more than rural people. Let me know what you think!

On a good note...the sun is shining today and all seems well with the world. Our hearts and prayers are with those in the south that have been devastated by the tornadoes. Hopefully the rest of the country will rally around them and help them get back on their feet.

Wishing you a great weekend!~

U.S. Weather Could Affect World Food Supplies, Prices

2011-04-28T16:01:00.000-07:00

Will the rain ever go away? Yes, tomorrow it's supposed to be dryer and warmer. Finally!! April has been a dismal month for farmers and gardeners alike in the Midwest. Hopefully we can get in the garden in the next couple of days.

Mother's Day is just around the corner. What have you got planned? We will probably go visit with Mom and enjoy every minute of it! She is such a great Mom. Recently I was asked for a recipe for a Mother's Day Brunch. What I suggested was a fairly quick and very easy brunch idea. You are welcomed to try it!

Until tomorrow...keep dry!

Egg Cup Surprise for Mother's Day Brunch!http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/8009993/egg_cup_surprise_for_mothers_day_brunch.html?cat=22

Egg Messes..not what you think!

2011-04-20T05:54:00.000-07:00

Still rainy and cool today! We need some sunshine but I'm always glad to get the rain for the pastures this time of the year. Jezebel still hasn't calved and the way the weather has been..I'm kinda glad!

Sometimes we get more eggs in our refrigerators than we know what to do with. What recipes do you have to use up extra eggs? I make meringue pies, noodles and EGG MESSES WITH LEFTOVERS!! I love that last one. Why? Because I not only get to use up the extra eggs I have, I also get to use my leftovers so they don't go to waste. I cooked a bunch of minute steaks last night for supper and sent some in hubby's lunch and I think I'm going to use them in an egg mess for supper with homemade biscuits!

Until tomorrow...go try an egg mess!

Egg Messes Use Up Leftovers!

Easy and Quick-15 Minute Biscuit Recipe!

Raising Ducks and Chickens. The Differences

2011-04-15T07:01:00.000-07:00

Wow..the wind is blowing a constant 25-35 miles an hour this morning. It's cloudy, cool and we are expecting rain. Not very pleasant to be outside today. I am keeping my eyes peeled on Jezebel, a Dexter cow. This morning it looked like she was starting to bag up and I am excited! I do hope the weather straightens up for her big event!

Did everyone order chicks, ducks, turkeys and ducks this spring? We ordered 25 chicks and 10 ducks. We have raised quite a few chicks over the years. But this is the FIRST year we decided on some ducks. We have 3 Swedish Blacks, 3 Khaki Campbells and 4 Runners and the company threw in an extra Fawn Runner.

Oh my gosh!!!! From the first peek..I'll admit it here and now..I was hooked on these ducks. But then reality also kicked in. The water mess was something I totally did not anticipate at their young age! So if you are thinking of raising ducks for the first time..I invite you to read the article below. There are indeed differences in raising ducks and chickens. I also want to thank the wonderful posters on Homesteadingtoday.com and their poultry section. There's a lot of knowledgeable people on that website and it's definitely a favorite of mine.

Until tomorrow...don't get blown away!

Raising Ducks and Chickens. The Differences

Pressure canning green beans for beginners?

2011-04-14T04:43:00.000-07:00

Ah, it's that time again, getting ready for the rush of green beans in a few months. It's the time when we look at our pantry shelves and decide how many green beans to plant and how much we need to can for the coming year.

So many people say that they would love to can something, but they are afraid it's too difficult to do or they are afraid they can't do it. First..it's not hard to can green beans. Green beans are one of the first things I learned to can. And I can tell you that I was beside myself with being nervous. But guess what? It all worked out great.

If you are a first time wanna be green bean canner...read the article below. Take your time, take your time, take your time. And as always, add a comment to this or any other article with helpful info for everyone.

Now I need to get back to pantry organizing! Have a great day!

Pressure-Canning Green Beans For Beginners

Preparing Livestock for natural disasters.

2011-04-10T03:39:00.000-07:00

This morning I was reading about the massive wild fires in Texas. It seems every day there is a disaster happening somewhere. My state is getting ready for bad storms today and possible flooding. As homesteaders, all of us try to keep our pantries full and keep prepared for emergencies and disasters. But have you given your livestock as much consideration?

They will have to eat and drink and be medicated even if flooding or loss of electricity or "fill in the blank" happens. Have you seriously thought about how you would care for your livestock? For us, electricity to pump water for livestock is definitely our weak spot. We are planning on installing a hand pump for emergencies. Having back up feed for chickens, ducks, etc. is also something to consider.

I'd love to hear how you all plan for disasters in your area.

Until tomorrow...stay safe and prepared!

Preparing Livestock for Natural Disasters in Our Area

Economics of Meal Planning. Is it for You?

2011-04-07T06:46:00.000-07:00

I don't know of any one who is not being affected by rising prices for food and gas. Whether living on a homestead or in the city, every penny does count. I'm curious if any of you do meal planning. If you do, I would love to hear from you and I'm sure the readers would too. Do you think it saves you money? I do. Do you think you have a better idea of what food you have in your pantry? I do.

The article below explains meal planning and shopping. I hope you think it is helpful. Please leave comments on how you would do it differently...we're all in this together!

Have a great day~

Economics of Meal Planning. Is it for You?

We're on baby watch! How about you?

2011-03-29T13:49:00.000-07:00

Crazy weather today! We got about a half inch of snow in an hour and a half this morning and it totally covered the grass. By eleven it was gone and this afternoon it's 50 degrees and the sun is shining..we are in IOWA!

The night before last we started on baby watch. Our Dexter girl, Monica, is due and the weather has been crazy so we just wanted to make darned sure nothing was going wrong. LOL..they KNOW when you're watching and they will not calve unless it is going to take you off guard!

Well needless to say she didn't calve and we locked her in the stall this morning when it was snowing. Looks like we'll be letting her out this evening. I'm such a worry wart with the cattle and goats. I want to make sure everything is okay and drive myself crazy in the process. Oh my.

Is everyone else in the throws of calving or kidding? I love new babies on the homestead..it just makes me feel like all is well in turbulent times to have everyone mothering and new, innocent life coming into the world. The best to all who are waiting on new arrivals. I'll be thinking of you all at about 2 in the a.m.

Falls around the homestead..oh my.

2011-03-28T06:32:00.000-07:00

Beautiful morning here, and though it's still cold, the forecast for later in the week sounds like spring temps! I am so ready. I missed a few days of "chatting" and hope you are all well.

In the last week, I have truly understood the term "accident". LOL..I literally fell through my back steps while running out to take a pic of a Dexter calf that is for sale. Yep, I'm the only one that uses those steps (an old pull up set from a trailer house) and I KNEW they were getting bad. Well, sure enough, I stepped out and fell plumb through. It was quite a jarring experience. My ankles seemed to fair the worst. But, a couple of tub soaks and I was up and at 'em again.

I was up every 2 hours to check Monica. A Dexter cow that is going to give birth soon. At my 5:00 a.m. checking I was half asleep and turned my ankle on a rut and yep, down I went again. As I type, I am seriously thinking I have turned into a klutz. I am hopeful that this is it for the tumbles for a while.

Hoping you all have a tumble free day!

Storm and tornado warnings today. Spring has sprung!

2011-03-22T13:47:00.000-07:00

It's almost 70 here and overcast. Tornadoes and bad storms are predicted for late this afternoon. I hate it when those bad storms sneak up on me. So much so that we bought a MIDLAND NOAA weather radio. I love it because it comes on automatically when a warning or watch comes out for our area. It also works if you lose power because it has a battery backup. I recommend a weather radio for everyone. We don't always have the TV, radio or computer on for updates on the weather.

I must say that I have had a slow day around the homestead. Not because I don't have several things I could be doing..just a gray day and I guess I'm not being very productive. Hope your day has been a good one in whatever you chose to do (or not do!).

Hay shortages in your area?

2011-03-21T07:59:00.000-07:00

Another warm day today. Here we are just beginning spring and we are trying to figure out how much hay we can get a hold of by fall. Is anyone else experiencing either no available hay or hay that's priced to the moon? We sure are. Most of the hay suppliers have opted to tear up the hay fields and plant corn. The few remaining suppliers have a corner on the market and they price their hay high.

I believe this will affect all farmers eventually, but homesteaders are feeling it now. How does this affect the small farmer or the homesteader? It makes it darned tough to raise cattle, goats, sheep or horses. Hay is their mainstay and there comes a point in time that you have to bite the bullet and get your numbers of livestock down in order to be able to feed them well.

I'm greatly disturbed about this turn of events. It takes away people's options for grass/hay fed meat. It also makes meat higher in the grocery stores eventually. Sadly, I think I see a day that homesteaders are homesteading without livestock. We will all pay if that sad day comes.

Would love to hear your thoughts! Don't let my DebbieDowner get you down too..lol. Just things to keep in mind as we head into spring and the breeding schedules are being looked at.

See you tomorrow!

Foods that Contain Iodine. From Eggs to Kelp

2011-03-19T06:46:00.000-07:00

A beautiful morning here again. Its the weekend and I know we are going to do some garden cleanup. We'll probably burn off some hay and old grass. I think, since we are moving the main garden, we will be walking and staking out the plot.

Even though we are sitting out here in the middle of the United States, our prayers and our concerns do focus on Japan. I don't think I'm the only one that has a slight twinge at the thought of extra radiation floating around. But just take extra good care of yourself (and your livestock) and we'll all keep Japan and the world in prayers.

While you plan your gardens, maybe its a good idea to think about your family's health. Some foods do contain certain healing qualities or specific nutrients. In the below article, you may want to take a look at foods that contain iodine. Can you work something off of that list into your garden?

Have a great weekend, enjoy it, feel blessed.

Foods that Contain Iodine. From Eggs to Kelp

2011-03-18T06:07:00.000-07:00

It's Friday and overcast, but at least it is still warmer than it has been. I have 40 degrees at 8:00. Hope all of you are doing well out there. The homestead is starting to look and sound like spring. A green cast is in the pastures, I think one good thunderstorm and we'll see green pastures after a long hard winter..yippee!

My husband is a power lineman. We are soon coming into weather that I don't quite care for..lol..because I always worry about him out in the storms. Most of us, especially rural people, have had the experience of losing our power. If the outage is long and in the spring or summer heat, you know one of the first things you worry about is the food in your refrigerator and freezer(s). Been there!

BEFORE you experience an outage, try looking up dry ice businesses in the area. Write their phone numbers down where you can easily find them so that you can give them a call if your electricity goes on the fritz. My dad ran a dry ice plant for many years and he never resented opening up to help someone out.

Have a great weekend friends.

Freezer Problems and Dry Ice - Saving Your Food

Tips on planning a garden.

2011-03-16T15:46:00.000-07:00

Oh boy! It's 65 here and I feel like throwing a party! I have spring fever and make no bones about it. How about you guys? I am sitting on the porch trying to visualize my new garden spot. I'm going to let the melons have the old garden and start a new garden for the other produce! Yippee!!

All jokes aside, I called in my seed order Friday afternoon. And, I just want to put up a friendly reminder that you should get your seed orders called in as they might start running short on some products. There was a certain kind of pea that I wanted a pound of..but they only have packets left. LOL..it would take too many packets to fill a pound order..so I decided on another variety of pea.

I hope you are all thinking about where you're going to plant a garden, and if you are going to need help, and making sure it is close to a water source and such. Get out your pencil, paper and seed catalogs and get started on planning a garden today!

Tips on Planning a Garden.

Homemade Yellow Cake - Most Versatile Dessert

2011-03-11T13:44:00.000-08:00

It's windy, partly sunny and 52 degrees today. I'll take that! As hard as the wind is blowing things should be drying out pretty soon. It's supposed to be super windy tomorrow..no clothes on line!!

The folks are coming from northern Iowa. We always love seeing them. I am trying to plan my meals for tomorrow. I like easy meals so I have plenty of time to gab! I'm getting ready to make dessert. Yep, homemade yellow cake. Why? Because its so versatile. I am making chocolate pudding for one topping and thawed strawberries from the garden for a second choice. Sound good? Enjoy your weekend!!!

You can see a good recipe and ideas for topping a homemade yellow cake here :

Homemade Yellow Cake - Most Versatile Dessert

Organizing Your Recipe Box: Make it Work for You

2011-03-09T14:42:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone, its trying to get warmer here. How about where you're at? It's that time of year that drives me crazy. Spring is so close and yet that wind still has a bite and the rain drops turn to snow flurries at night. Soon dear friends..soon we will be enjoying the green grass, gardens and flowers!

I have been trying to catch up on odd jobs around the kitchen before nice weather arrives and I find myself outside more than inside. Believe it or not, one of these jobs is redoing my recipe box. I have too many faded, coffee stained recipes that have dog ears and are pretty much begging for retirement! I also have the cards and the categories all messed up!

Here is my method of organizing my recipe box. It may surprise you with the omissions and additions. Hey, I say make it work for ya! Hope you find something helpful..add a comment about how you do YOUR recipe box. Until next time.....

Organizing Your Recipe Box: Make it Work for You by Sherry Tomfeld

Cleaning and Storing Your Pressure Canner

2011-02-16T08:42:00.000-08:00

Woo-Hoo!!! It's 50 degrees this morning and the snow is melting, melting, melting!! I hope you all are having a break in whatever bad weather has been plaguing you and you have the opportunity to open the window or door and let the fresh air in!

I find my thoughts turning to gardening and that in turn makes me think about canning/freezing. I recently bought a new stove and tried my pressure canner out on it. That got me to thinking that everyone would do good by taking a good look at their canners and equipment now. You know, BEFORE there's a major phoopah during canning season.

A lot of problems can be averted by simply cleaning and storing your pressure canners in the proper way. I'm not an expert, but I have plenty of years preserving food and I try to take good care of my canner..it's my friend..lol!

Here's an article on how to clean and store pressure canners. Hope it helps someone.

In the meantime, enjoy your day and I hope you have a blessed one!

Cleaning and Storing Your Pressure Canner by Sherry Tomfeld

Premeir Stove. I love this gas range!

2011-02-05T17:57:00.000-08:00

Happy Saturday! It's a bit warmer here today and the sun tried to shine..all is good on the homestead. Hope you are all warm and toasty as well.

Have you had to buy a new stove lately? We had to purchase one last month. I had an electric stove and it was being to be a nightmare with my canning. I burned out two burners with the darned thing. So, off we went to look for a new gas stove. I really couldn't find what I was looking for. I am a simple person, I like my appliances to be the same way. But, I like for them to be work horses.

We finally gave up and came home to look on the Internet. I found exactly what I was looking for, or at least I hoped it was what I wanted. It was a Premeir gas stove. This range has four burners plus a griddle in the middle. I was surprised to see that a fifth burner came with it. I just flip the griddle out and put the fifth burner in and put my canner on it. It cans like a dream!!! Yes, I bought some organic carrots that were on sale and brought them home and ran them through the pressure canner to try it out.

It will light (stove AND oven) during power outages. I made some bread Friday and got a great do on it. IF you are looking for a gas stove you might be interested in this article. It has a website to go to. Ask if you have any questions. No stove is perfect and I give pros and cons to this stove as I know them so far. There are three pictures on there too.

Well, I hope you are having a great weekend. See ya soon!

Premeir SLK 849W Gas Range. Pros and Cons

2011-02-03T09:25:00.000-08:00

Wow, I've been a long time gone..but I'm back and hopefully I will maintain this blog better! Hope all of you are weathering the storms we have had this week. We had around 16" of snow here. It really blew hard and today it is very cold..BUT...the sun is shining!!

I have actually seen a few robins already. I never see them this early, could it mean spring is closer than I think? I sure hope so!

Have you all been keeping healthy? We had a small scrape with a cold here. My better half didn't feel very good. Know what I made him? Homemade applesauce! Now I'm not going to say that it cured his cold, it just made him feel better. And the house? It smelled wonderful with the applesauce aroma wafting through it.

If you don't know how to make applesauce, relax, it's so easy and quick to do. Read here for some info~

Homemade Applesauce. A Healing Recipe

Good luck and keep warm and healthy til I see ya tomorrow!

Freezing Butter? Yes, you can!

2010-10-19T07:42:00.001-07:00

Well fall is here and I don't know where the time has gone. I find it hard to keep up here during the summer months, so I hope I can "visit" on a more daily basis. The leaves are about 70% gone now. I must admit I am NOT a leaf raker!

We are always discussing how to freeze garden produce or canning garden produce on here. And I still think that is great. However, there are other products that we use that can also be preserved for later use. Butter is one of them! Yes, you can freeze butter and nothing is faster or more simple to do.

If you have some great hints on preserving food..don't be shy! Add them here!

Til we chat again..

Freezing Butter? Yes, You Can Freeze Butter!

Pumpkin Whoopie Pies and Caramel Chocolate Coffee - Great Winter Food and Drink Pairing

2010-10-02T05:56:00.000-07:00

It's been a long time since I have written and I hope to change that now. Fall is upon us and we are looking at our first frost coming tonight. The farmers are in the fields and you get the sense that everyone is starting to think "winter".

As the temps get chillier, how about a new treat to warm them up? How about Pumpkin Whoopie Pies? Some caramel chocolate coffee would top this treat off! Want to know how to make them? Just hit the article below.

Hope everyone made it through their summer okay and all are well going into fall.

Pumpkin Whoopie Pies and Caramel Chocolate Coffee - Great Winter Food and Drink Pairing

Tips on Baking Failures - Great for Beginners

2010-08-27T10:48:00.000-07:00

I was writing an article on tips for baking failures, great for beginners. I sat here remembering the first pie crust I tried to roll out. It got sticky on me, it stuck to the roller and the table. I was just beginning and I could remember how easily Grandma had rolled those beautiful crusts out. I started laughing when I thought of how I balled that pie dough up and heaved it towards the wall!

Okay, total lack of self control and excellent example of temper tantrum. But I do remember how discouraging it can get. Heck, I still have baking failures. I bet almost all cooks have them from time to time.

So, don't give up bakers out there! You may have a failure now and then but keep baking. Here are a few tips to ward off some of those failures!!

Until next time...

Tips on Baking Failures - Great for Beginners by Sherry Tomfeld

Bank Swallows and Their Colony of Nests

2010-08-25T09:56:00.000-07:00

Well school is now starting in our area. It always seems like the summer goes soooo fast! I'm sure the kids think so too. Many will be going to area schools and many will be getting into the grind of school by staying home and being home schooled.

Early this summer my husband and I came across a colony of Bank Swallow nests. I was fortunate to have a camera and snapped a few pictures of them. I don't know if it will help anyone, but if you are teaching about birds or unusual places that birds build nests, maybe the article below will help you out! We have enjoyed seeing them every time we drive by to go fishing. What wonders and gifts God shares with us each and every day!

Until later...

Bank Swallows and Their Colony of Nests by Sherry Tomfeld

Cantaloupe, Muskmelon or Watermelon Slushes. Healthy Recipe!

2010-08-24T15:49:00.000-07:00

This summer has been a hot and humid one but finally a cool front is passing through today. We are to enjoy some days of highs in the 70s before returning to hotter weather. We're supposed to drink a lot of water during hot days. Do you ever wish there was something else refreshing and cool to drink? Something that doesn't have the sugar soda does? Well I had some cantaloupe in my frig and decided the other day to make a cantaloupe slush. And ya know what? I loved it! I am not a huge cantaloupe lover, but I really enjoyed that slush. I have made watermelon slushes and I am crazy about them! I now freeze watermelon and cantaloupe so that I can make these melon slushes all year around. If you have a bad cold or feeling under the weather..they are great!

Until next time..keep cool.

Cantaloupe, Muskmelon or Watermelon Slushes. Healthy Recipe! by Sherry Tomfeld

Freezing Watermelon and Grapes - Be Frugal and Healthy

2010-08-20T06:47:00.000-07:00

The weather is still hot and humid but thankfully not to the triple digits. I think animals and people here on the homestead are all recovering from the extreme heat we had.

How are the watermelons doing in your area this year? Ours are pretty good. I actually had to freeze some of the watermelons so they wouldn't spoil. Have you ever frozen watermelon? If not, trust me, eating a piece of partially frozen watermelon, while sitting on the couch recovering from the cold and flu bug, is a treat. I break out a bag in the evenings just to have something to nibble on while I watch T.V. And thankfully the calories are minimal!

If you would like to try freezing watermelon, I'll leave an article about it at the end of this. It also tells you how to freeze grapes. I love frozen grapes too!

Blessing until next time...

Freezing Watermelon and Grapes - Be Frugal and Healthy by Sherry Tomfeld

3 Food Thickeners and How to Use Them

2010-08-13T17:26:00.000-07:00

WOW...the last few weeks have been brutal in Iowa. The heat indexes were averaging 110 for the last couple of weeks. Finally there is a break. We had storms today but it brought some much needed cooler weather. The livestock are all full of beans this evening!

Those who read this site or read my how-to and recipe articles know that I am a basic cook. No frills and not complicated. For those just starting out cooking I have an article on food thickeners. You would use food thickeners to make gravy, sauces and soups not so runny. Hope it helps someone and please write in if you have a better way. This old dog is always ready to learn a new trick!

Until next time...

3 Food Thickeners and How to Use Them by Sherry Tomfeld

Peach Butter: Preserving Summer's Bounty

2010-08-10T16:15:00.000-07:00

The weather is absolutely like a sauna in southeast Iowa this week. Humidity to the moon! But, onward we trudge. I ran across an article on putting peach butter up today. I thought maybe there were some out there that would think it sounded as good as I do.

I hope you enjoy it!! Blessings..Sherry

Peach Butter: Preserving Summer's Bounty by Debbie Henthorn

How to Freeze Cabbage - Two Methods

2010-07-27T08:08:00.000-07:00

Onward through the hot and humid summer we go. We are done with the kidding for this year..maybe 1 late girl yet. But the Dexters are still calving. Terra is very close, so she is getting the "extra" attention this week. I am in hopes that the weather will cool down when it is her time to calve.

I put some cabbage up last week. Cabbage around here was pretty poor. I actually tried making sauerkraut but I am not happy with how it's going. The cabbage was really dried out and it had been so wet earlier that it had waste.

I did manage to freeze some though. If you are interested in how to freeze cabbage, there's an article about it at the end of this. Please feel free to share how you put up cabbage for the freezer!!

Have a very blessed day!

How to Freeze Cabbage - Two Methods

Canning green and yellow beans together. Raw Packed!

2010-07-23T12:21:00.001-07:00

Wow, I didn't dream I would be away from the website this long. Hope all are well out there. It's extremely hot here on the homestead. The humidity is really high. I find that humidity and I do not get along well..lol.

The green and yellow beans did great in the garden this year. I hope that your beans did well too! I canned around 60 pints so far. I mix the yellow and green beans together when I can. I love the way they look and the family loves to eat them together. Don't know how to can green or yellow beans? This article:

Canning Green and Yellow Beans Together! Raw Packed by Sherry Tomfeld

What a chick looks like inside an egg. Picture.

2010-06-01T05:21:00.000-07:00

On the homestead all kinds of new babies are being born and hatched. It's a wonderful experience to watch God and nature so in tune. I never get tired of watching new lives come into this world and am constantly in awe each and every time I see it.

That got me to thinking that there are many kids that don't know what baby animals look like shortly after birth. I took this picture of a mature chick tucked inside half the shell that he was in. There's nothing gross about it..just a little wet black chick. So, if you would like to share with a child what a chick looks like inside an egg..go here

What a chick looks like inside an egg. Picture.

Enjoy!!

How to Freeze Spinach: 3 Methods

2010-05-27T07:04:00.000-07:00

Well I'm REALLY busy freezing strawberries!! What a great year it was for them. They must have loved all of that rain and cooler weather. I was really scared they would get a fungus or some such thing.

My garden is kind of late..but I see that lettuce and spinach are both up and it will soon be time to eat some of it!! Yippee!!

Maybe your spinach is up. Did you know that you can freeze spinach? If you want to .. this article may help you out.

How to Freeze Spinach: 3 Methods

Until tomorrow...

how to freeze strawberries. It's Berry easy!!

2010-05-24T05:55:00.000-07:00

Hi all. It's been a while. The homestead is jumping this spring with new calves. The Dexter calves are so cute and so much fun to watch. We sit in the rockers on the porch and have a grand time watching them!

The cold damp weather has moved on here in se Iowa. We went from 60 degree high one day to 90 degree high the next. It is hot and humid and just in time to save a monster strawberry crop here on the homestead.

I planted a new bed last year, so this is the first year of picking strawberries from it. All that weeding last year and watering paid off. The strawberry plants are just loaded this year. And they are starting to turn ripe. Yesterday I picked a gallon. j

What am I going to do with all of the strawberries? I'm going to freeze them! And if you want to learn how..read

How to Freeze Strawberries. Freezing is Berry Easy!!

You will see just how easy it is from the above article. Know someone that wants to get their feet wet in preserving food? Freezing strawberries is a great way to get someone started in the canning and freezing of food.

Until next time...keep cool!

I'm back!!! (Animal Friends Dying. Goodbye Big Black)

2010-04-21T05:47:00.000-07:00

It was a long winter and I really got behind early this spring on writing in this homesteading blog. We had some losses this winter, the last one was Big Black, our goat friend. Black was 10 or so and passed away on the same homestead that he was born, bottle fed and raised on. I still look out the window and it dawns on me that he is no longer there. I guess it took some of the starch out of me. This follows Red, Pokey the horse and Helen. Having livestock friends that are aging is hard and we knew that this was on the horizon, it doesn't make it any less hard when it actually happens though.

So here is a tribute to Big Black. And hopefully, with the spring, I will get back to "normal" again.

Animal Friends Dying. Goodbye Big Black

How to plant a salsa garden. What's hot and what's not.

2010-03-08T14:06:00.000-08:00

The snow is almost gone here today. We are looking at a gray day and rain for the next 4 days..but it is definitely heading us toward Spring!! Are you getting your garden ready? Are you planning your garden? How about a salsa garden this year? Here's an article about planting a garden with the ingredients for making your own salsa. I use Jung's catalog and show you that there are many heats to peppers. I also like firm tomatoes when I make salsa.

Please share any salsa garden ideas or gardening ideas!

How to Plant a Salsa Garden: What's Hot and What's Not

Tips on Planning a Garden.

Start planning your garden today..it's almost time to plant!!

Spring is trying to come!

2010-03-02T12:01:00.000-08:00

The last 2 days have brought hope that spring is indeed right around the corner. The sun is shining, it's over 32 degrees and life is good. The animals are all enjoying the changing warmer weather. I hope everyone else is seeing signs of spring and seeing the sun as well.

The homestead has been very quiet for the last couple of weeks. The Dexter girls are growing bigger and the anticipation of spring babies is starting to take hold. I have some eggs in the hatcher and they will be ready this Thursday. I have never hatched any this early in the year. Our house is so dry in the winter time..but we will see!

How about coffee cake? Do you have an occasion coming up that might require baking a coffee cake? Are you a beginner and have never made a coffee cake before? If so, I have a great fruit coffee cake recipe for you. You can use almost any fruit with it or you can just use cinnamon and sugar. If you would like to try it, you can find it here :

Easy How to Make Fruit Coffee Cake. Grandma's Easy Fruit Coffee Cake Recipe

Here's hoping spring is giving you a visit today!

Introducing new animals to the herd.

2010-02-15T09:57:00.000-08:00

Here it is a Monday and the sun is shining although still cold. I have been watching the livestock out the windows. I think they are all relieved that it is not raining, snowing or freezing outside. It's in the upper 20's right now. A great change for animals and people alike.

A month ago we brought home a new buck for the "girls". After making as sure as we could that he was healthy, we put him in with the goat herd. Well, Jake is a young buck and was he ever intimidated by the herd. I have a lot of old girls in there that are 8-10 years old and no one, not even a buck is going to just come in and take over. If you would enjoy a small slideshow of Jake getting introduced into the herd, please stop in and take a peek.

Introducing a new animal to the herd. Illustrated with pictures

How to fry potatoes. Illustrated with pictures.

2010-02-10T08:05:00.000-08:00

Hi all. I have been gone for a week from the Internet. Pokey's passing was harder than I expected on me. I am also having a flare up of eye problems, but I am back for a bit today!

We have had yet more snow dumped and I know everyone is getting kind of yancy about winter now. It seems like the later into winter we get, the more the snow storms seem trying. Deep breath, spring will be here shortly!

I try to have a lot of hot meals for the family during this time of the year. Hubby is out and cold all day and I like a hot meal for him. I have come to realize that a lot of people are just starting out with cooking. And, maybe some could use some "help" trying to conquer this thing called meals. Today I have an article with pictures of how to fry potatoes. I hope it helps someone.

How to fry potatoes. Illustrated with pictures.

Until next time..keep thinking spring!

We put our beloved Pokey to sleep.

2010-02-03T14:37:00.000-08:00

Tough day here on the homestead. Our dear Pokey, age 27, could not get up this morning. The call went out to the vet, we knew what was needed. It has been such a stressful day for both my husband and I. Pokey and I have been together for 25 years. She took to her job of babysitting the Dexter calves like a momma hen takes to hovering over her chicks.

Never a time when she didn't "talk" to us, even today. Words fail me. My tribute to a lifelong friend.

A Farewell Poem for Pokey

How to Freeze Spinach: 3 Methods

2010-01-25T16:59:00.000-08:00

Have you been getting your garden seed catalogs? I have and today, while it was blowing and snowing, I was thinking spring! There are some seeds that can be planted when the soil is fairly cool and spinach is one of those. We love spinach. We eat spinach raw and I also like to freeze it for later use. If you would like to try freezing spinach, give this article a read and try it! Freezing spinach is easy and boy, does it ever add to the flavor of soups, egg dishes and casseroles in the winter time!

How to Freeze Spinach: 3 Methods

See ya tomorrow!

Busy week on the homestead.

2010-01-24T10:51:00.000-08:00

Oh my, between strange weather and the homestead animals, the week seemed busy. We went from snow to an ice storm to over an inch of rain this week. Coming next? Snow tonight and tomorrow..but hopefully not much. We could really stand a dry time right now.

I needed a buck for my girls who have had the year off. Bought a "young" buck and brought him home. He is now in with the does and its been a long week with him and the girls. He was very intimidated by them at first. He is finally starting to hold his own. Keeping fingers crossed that he decides breeding would be a great idea soon.

We have a 26 year old quarter horse named Pokey. She had a bad case of laminitis and we were close to putting her down. She just will not accept the medicine from those plastic tubes. The vet gave us some powder to put on grain for her pain. Wow..the Lord blessed us there. She actually will eat it on her grain and she is feeling so much better. Now for some drier weather, I think we would all benefit from that!

That's the news for now. Going to start planning for the garden this week. How about you? Here's an article that gives you a helping hand on planning your gardens. Stay well!

Tips on Planning a Garden.

Sauerkraut, organic and almost as good as homemade!

2010-01-14T09:06:00.000-08:00

We had sauerkraut for supper again last night. We love sauerkraut and I do think it is a good thing for most people to eat. I usually make our sauerkraut, using the crock method, every year. I tried to make it this last summer.. but...I had all the cabbage cut and had mashed it really well in the crock..all was good to go. Alas, when I was covering it (slightly before it WAS all covered) I dropped a glass quart jar and it hit the rim of my crock. Let me tell you, that jar exploded in to a million shards everywhere. I just couldn't take a chance, so I dumped my cabbage/sauerkraut. I was broken hearted and I knew I could not redo it because I was already going into a flare with my fibromyalgia. What to do?

I belong to a co-op and I looked there for an organic sauerkraut to use until I had a chance to make some more of my own. Well, I found some alright and it is darned good. Just in case something happens to your kraut or you've reached a time when you no longer make your own, you may want to try this sauerkraut.

I don't get paid for saying something good about this sauerkraut(Woodstock Farms) or any other, but I just thought I would pass it on in case it helps someone else out. Here's an article on the Woodstock Organic Sauerkraut.

Looking for Organic Sauerkraut? Woodstock Farms Sauerkraut May Be for You!

The weather is sooo much better here today. We have just over 40 degrees and a slow melt is under way. I am so excited that the snow is leaving..and the animals and people are needed a break from the sub zero weather we have had for so long already this year. Hope you all are having a January thaw too!

Later.....

Government and regulating salt.

2010-01-12T13:59:00.000-08:00

Sometimes the outside world creeps into the homestead. Government regulations are such times. There is talk of the government regulating salt in our food. How do you feel about that? I am torn. I don't like government intrusion. I do however feel that food companies could cut the salt back on their processed foods and everyone would benefit. I wish they would do it on their own though.

January is a time that the seed catalogs start coming in and we turn our thoughts to our gardens and planning them. Part of that is planning on what we need to can each year. Thankfully, we get the chance to process and consume our own food for most of what we need. Still, I can't help thinking about the seniors and kids that really don't have choices.

Regulating Americans Salt Intake. The Real Culprit is Hidden Salt

Just something to think about :

From Flu to snow storm on the homestead.

2010-01-08T12:20:00.000-08:00

Wow..seems like a long long time since I have been on here. You'll recall that the tractor and cornburner both took a hike shortly before Christmas. And, all praise to God, we now have a new working cornburner and a tractor that has been repaired. Then the holidays hit and then a slight case of flu/fibromyalgia kinda thing going on.

I am looking at the cornburner..it has just snowed another 7-8 inches and the wind is blowing and temps have dropped. Am I ever thrilled to have the cornstove on and feeling its heat. And with the snow fall, hubby will be busy with the tractor tonight.

Ian, I am so sorry that I took so long to get back on here. Here is an article about the cornstove that you may enjoy.

Heating with Corn Stoves: an Alternative to Gas, Oil and Electric Heat by Sherry Tomfeld

Hope everyone is well out there. Be back sooner than later!

When it rains it pours. Tractor and cornburner both die!

2009-12-30T14:36:00.000-08:00

Ahh..ya just never know what is going to go bananas on ya next. This month the tractor and the corn burner both shelled out on us. Luckily the tractor was fixed with a new carburetor, but the corn burner had to be replaced.

We have burned corn for 10 years and the burner sure didn't owe us anything. Still., it was like an old friend and I knew just how to set it to get it to burn just right to warm our home. This new one will do the same I'm sure, I just get used to things I guess. And wouldn't ya know that repairs and replacements would come right before and at Christmas time? We just praise God that we got both fixed and replaced and will eventually get them paid for.

We feed cattle, so the tractor was important to get back on track. Those big bales simply require a tractor on our place.

So, don't feel bad if your appliance or car took a vacation on ya. We feel your pain..this too shall pass!

Til next time!

How to Make Summer Sausage and Save Money

2009-12-28T14:53:00.000-08:00

Hope everyone's Christmas went well. It was rather stormy here in the midwest, but we managed to squeak by and missed the worst part of the snow storm. We have a new blanket of snow on the ground now though!

I ran across this article on how to make summer sausage and save money. I think it sounds wonderful, I haven't tried it yet though. If you are interested in making your own summer sausage, please read

How to Make Summer Sausage and Save Money by Euwyn Pegues

Let me know what you think of it and by all means add a summer sausage recipe of your own!

Have a great day!

Remembering the reason for the season. Christ.

2009-12-23T06:02:00.000-08:00

Christmas is just around the corner now. Last minute gift wrapping and getting food ready for Christmas get togethers. It's gray outside today and yet a warm feeling from the holidays has kept it sunny inside.

On this day, Christmas and every day, I pray we all take time to remember the reason for the season. Christ was born. He lived and was crucified on the cross for us. God gave us the gift of His son and His son gave us the gift of ever lasting life.

In this season, I pray we all remember Him. The presents will come and go, but Christ is forever. He is with us always and He wants nothing more than for us to come back home to Him and live forever in His fold.

Merry Christmas all. From our homestead to you all, Merry Christmas!

2009-12-13T05:22:00.001-08:00

Well, we made it through the big storm! We were really blessed that we didn't get the huge snowfall that was earlier predicted. And, it drizzled on the snow that we did get which I think helped to keep the snow from blowing quite as bad the following day. Hope everyone made it through.

The day before the blizzard, Mille, a Dexter cow, gave birth to a black heifer. She was the last to calf and we knew she was bred, we just didn't know her due date. A couple of years ago Mille gave birth to GH Angel in the wee morning hours at minuss 22 degrees. At least it wasn't that cold this time around. We moved them from snow drift to barn and both are doing well now.

Well, its that time of year..tailgating parties and Christmas parties. Do you need an idea for an appetizer? I have just the one for you, it is a Sweet and Sour Little Smokies recipe. Click on

A Sweet and Sour Little Smokies Recipe ~ Easy Appetizer!

Let me know what you think. They are quick and easy and I haven't gotten a lot of great compliments on them. I think it's because it's not the usual BBQ type Little Smokies.

Until later..

Meaningful and Free Christmas Gifts

2009-12-03T08:30:00.000-08:00

Brrrrrrrrrr it has finally hit seasonal temps and we actually had a spit of snow this morning. But the sky is blue with a few white clouds and I call it beautiful. Instead of enjoying what I am seeing outside, I know I should be getting after shopping for Christmas presents. I have to admit that I have never been an eager or very willing shopper. I don't care for the crowds and frankly I hate buying expensive gifts that probably aren't going to be appreciated or wanted. It's hard to know what to get people.

Over the last few years, I have changed the way I few shopping for Christmas. I don't always "buy" a gift, I sometimes give a present of the heart. This article shows you some ideas for Christmas presents that are either free or very inexpensive. These are not just presents for the homesteader or farmer..but rather gift ideas for everyone.

Hard times require some imagination..take a peak at

Meaningful and Free Christmas Gifts

See if this gives you a new energy and insight on Christmas shopping this year!! Feel free to add to the list!

Uses for Stools Decorating Ideas for Step Ladders

2009-11-28T07:09:00.000-08:00

Well here we are..Black Friday has come and gone and Christmas looms ahead of us. A couple of days ago I posted an article about decorating with cookie jars. Today, I am posting an article about Decorating with step stools and step ladders. Maybe you will get some ideas for your home and possibly a Christmas gift for someone.

Today is sunny and chilly here in southeast Iowa. God has blessed us with beauty all around us. I think its up to us to keep His beauty going on the inside of each of us. Have a blessed weekend and I hope no one ate too much turkey!!

Uses for Stools. Decorating Ideas for Step Ladders

Blessings at Thanksgiving.

2009-11-25T15:48:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow is Thanksgiving. Families get together for a meal and to enjoy each others company. Not every family has the luxury of bringing everyone together. Some families have lost family members and are experiencing their first Thanksgiving without that loved one. Some families have people in them that have heads and egos beyond limits and are hard to get along with. Some families are experiencing hard times and need help, not just for Thanksgiving.

No matter where you fall on this Thanksgiving Day, my prayer for you is that you have a good day. I can't say that without adding that the Lord is with you, whether you have turkey or not, whether you are alone or only feel that way in your family gathering. He is always there and He is thankful for you. After all, God made you and is your Father.

Please give thanks to the Lord for whatever you have. Lean on him if you need to, I know I do plenty of times. Keep the faith, and have a great Thanksgiving Day.

Gifting and decorating with cookie jars!

2009-11-19T04:49:00.000-08:00

Christmas is getting near. Throughout the coming weeks I'll post a few ideas that might spark you into a gift idea. What is it today? A cookie jar! Some people still have cookie jars that they actually use for storing cookies. But, the following article deals with using a cookie jar to help decorate just about any room in the house.

If you are stumped on a gift for someone, maybe the article will give you some ideas. Buy a cookie jar and fill it with cookies OR with things for the "alternative" uses of cookie jars.

As always..any additional ideas are more than welcome!

Home Decorating with Cookie Jars

Turkeys escaping Thanksgiving dinner..kids stories

2009-11-17T08:09:00.000-08:00

Well it doesn't seem possible that Thanksgiving could possibly be a week away. Where is the time going? That is probably what a lot of homestead turkeys are thinking! When you live on a homestead you just automatically learn to have a stiff upper lip and know that the animals you raise may very well be on your plate some day.

This is distressing to kids and quite frankly I usually feel bad for a while after butchering or selling meat animals. Yet, I try to keep in mind that God has blessed us with these animals. We in turn have tried to give them as good a life as possible.

Still, once in a while there are animals that seem to escape the inevitable and today I thought I would share a couple of these stories. We having a running joke around this homestead, it is about 2 tom turkeys that never have wound up on the plate. Why? Well in the following stories you will see that Clark and I have a running battle. I think we would both miss it. In the second story, some fiction..some fact.

Both of these Thanksgiving Turkey stories are appropriate for children. I hope your kids like them.

Turkey Saved from Thanksgiving Dinner Because He Could Jump!

Turkey with an Attitude Escapes Thanksgiving Dinner

LOL..maybe there are other Thanksgiving Turkey stories out there. Please feel free to share them!

Getting colostrum to newborn calf.

2009-11-09T11:22:00.001-08:00

Wow..ever have a week or two that just goes bananas? It seems we have those quite oftern here around the homestead. Last week, our Dexter cow Victoria had a calf. He had some problems getting up and sucking. Oh boy! Victoria, although the most wonderful cow and mother, is NOT going to like us trying to milk her. Yep..we tried..Victoria won. So, I went to the house to make a bottle for the little tyke. I know, you are going to think I am crazy..but I have a recipe that I concocted..out of necessity, for goat kids that hadn't had any colostrum yet. This would be the second calf I would use it on..the first one made out just fine, as did the goats. Well, all Praise to God, the recipe worked. Baby has recovered, and is sucking mom now and we are all much happier!

Have you got a good recipe for emergency colostrum to give to livestock? If you do..I would love to have you leave it here.Here is the recipe I used:

Saving Calves and Goat Kids Without Mothers Colostrum

Dog packs on the homestead.

2009-10-30T15:05:00.000-07:00

It seems there's just never a dull moment on the homestead. Today, it was a pack of dogs at the back gate. Thankfully they did not cross over and come into the pasture. As it was, the goats and cattle were spooked. The darned pack of dogs stayed here for 2 hours!

I got the binoculars out and saw a huge yellow lab. I thought to myself..who could dump such a beautiful and stoic animal out to fend for itself. With the economy getting worse, I wonder how many more dogs will be dumped. It's hard enough on the homestead to keep the coyotes at bay. I think the electric fence helps to discourage them all a little bit.

If you would like to read an article about dog packs..

Dog Packs and a Poor Economy

Wishing you all a great weekend.

Another inch of rain and 2 more to come.

2009-10-29T13:46:00.000-07:00

The homestead is muddy this Thursday. We got a substantial rain today, add that to the showers we have been getting and its wet. The weather service just put out a flood watch for a huge area of our state and parts of Mo. Please pray for anyone that may be in the path of such waters.

Looking out and seeing such a rainy and windy day..my thoughts again turn towards the farmers. They are standing at their windows also..and wondering what their crops' fates are.

Nothing is a sure bet when farming. No matter if its row crops or livestock, you depend on the good Lord to get you through the good times and the hard times. This year there has been too much rain, next year there may not be enough. Farming is not for the weak of heart or spirit.

Talk to you all later...

farmers having hard time getting crops out

2009-10-23T11:53:00.000-07:00

Good afternoon on this Friday! It is a chilly, blustery and rainy day here today and yesterday. We have had over 2 inches of rain. So many crops yet in the field. The corn has been testing in the mid 20s and this rain, no sun weather has the farmers in knots. Hopefully the wind won't blow hard and knock the corn down. The beans are rather in the same situation for the same reason..too wet.

We don't have row crops on our homestead, but it doesn't stop us from worrying about those who do. The stress of waiting for the weather to change is heavy. You can tell by the talk in the coffee shops and at the feed store. Farmers are really beginning to get concerned. The forecast has rain every other day for the next week. Please pray for our farmers..they know worry, they know what devastation can come from a lost or downed crop.

As I look out the window..I see the leaves falling. There is a saness about that and yet I always feel that the ground and nature are getting ready for their "nights" sleep. They need to rest in order to do all we want them to do come spring and summer.

The leaves have fallen in the back pasture where the squirrels are still wildly gathering for their winter feeds. I can see their huge nest from the house. It was so well hidden by the leaves..such miracles around us.

Well..all for today..have a great weekend..and remember your farmer friends.

Muscle pain slowed me up.

2009-10-21T08:53:00.000-07:00

I'm back! I have been having trouble with muscle tension and pain and have been laying off of sitting at the computer. But, all Praise to God, I am getting better and have decided to spend some time with my homesteading friends.

We have been blessed with some warmer temps and a dry spell for the last few days. Farmers are really starting to push..even though the corn is still fairly wet. We have a big rain coming in tomorrow, so I know they will be very anxious to get all they can out of the field.

I mentioned that I have been doing battle with my muscles..lol. Believe it or not, a tennis ball and cat toy ball have gotten me through several bad moments with my muscles. If you would like to read about how I use them, please read

Tennis Balls for Muscle Pain and Tension

I hope this can help relieve some of your pain. I know it has really helped mine in the past. Try not to over do it raking those leaves on these nice fall days!

Here's hoping to see you tomorrow. Have a blessed and healthy day!

A hard freeze last night!

2009-10-11T07:26:00.000-07:00

Well..whether we were ready for it or not (and we weren't), there was a hard frost last night. The weather seems more like November. We also had a spit of snow..oh my. I am not ready for that!

We still have a Dexter cow that needs to calf. I keep looking at her and wondering just how big can this girl get? I don't want to know! I sure hope she picks a half way nice day to calf. Those days will soon become rare I fear.

Today I think that I will try to bake some pumpkins off in preparation of canning them. I am new to this and we will see how that goes! I have to admit that I love trying something new when it comes to canning and preserving produce!

The garden is now officially spent. Done until next year's planting. But that doesn't mean that there is nothing more to do out there. Strawberries will need a layer of leaves yet. And adding manure to the garden is a never ending project it seems.

Well .. that's it for the homestead today..see you tomorrow!

Name change..same me!!

2009-09-28T18:13:00.000-07:00

How's everything on the home fronts? Everything is fine here..except it has been extremely windy today and tonight.

Need to discuss a slight change..nothing major! My name is Sherry Tomfeld and I have chosen to drop the pen name and write with my given name. So, same old stuff..just a new signature!

The days are sure getting noticeably shorter! I have to admit that with the shorter days and the windy and chilly day today..my thoughts are turning to colder weather and yes, winter. I am not excited about the whole thing. We really did not have a very hot summer. Usually those hot and dry days make me more than ready for a little winter..not so this year.

Along with these thoughts of fall and winter are the number of things that we should get done now before the snow flies. We need to check our cattle waters to make sure they are heating before the really cold weather comes. And I need to clean out my gutters! Someone is going to have to get tough with me on cleaning gutters..lol..I am not excited. I really need to wash down the ceiling of the porch too..those pesky bugs and flies do make a huge mess..don't they?

Well .. that's all for now. Hope I don't scare you away with the name change..it's still just me!

Hope you all have a great night.
Sherry

Book and Movie review section :

2009-09-27T06:35:00.000-07:00

I love old movies and I watched one of my all time favorites last week. The name of it is "The Good Earth". Talk about 'homesteading the hard way'. So many lessons to grasp from that movie. I have decided to put a book and movie section on this homesteading site. If you have a book or movie that you think would be interesting to the followers of this site, please feel free to add them.

Movie the Good Earth Could Have Been Called the Good Wife

Here is a hint at what I came away with when watching "the Good Earth".

Hoping you have a blessed Sunday!

Around the homestead..

2009-09-25T08:05:00.000-07:00

A lovely rain this morning with a couple more days of rain forecast. Lovely! I am sure I have plenty to do in the house while it's raining. I am looking at a couple of pumpkins that may be calling for me to can them!

Woke up this morning to find 3 new additions to the homestead. A momma cat decided to have her babies at the front door..lol. I had to get a box and old rug and make a "nest" for them. They all seem to be doing great. (Anyone need some cats?!?)

Update on Pokey the lame horse...she is doing wonderful, all praise to God! We turned her and her 2 little Dexter buddies back out with a bigger bunch of Dexters and she is at the helm. We massaged her with Absorbine Junior and it really did the trick. Those little bunched up places of muscle at the back of her legs are now gone.

Well, so much for the homestead this morning. Hopefully it is a quiet Friday around here!

Have a great weekend!

More Cat Pet Beds...I think I'm a boarding house for cats!

2009-09-22T16:07:00.001-07:00

Every homestead probably needs a cat. You know, for mousing and such? We started out with NO cats here on the homestead. But from 1 stray cat from the neighbors, we have a herd of cats now! The neighbor's cats have adopted us too. Today, I heard a scuffle on the porch only to find yet another new cat!! It is a long black haired cat with a collar. Okay, I am busy now trying to find the owner.

We have 4 house cats .. just to make things interesting. And they are all so unique and so fun. We really do enjoy the cats..it's just that everyone else's cats seem to be enjoying this homestead a wee bit too much..they seem to be running away from their respective homes and moving in here! Help, lol, we need more pet beds for cats!

Here is an article on Multiple cats and Multiple cat personalities.
And this is a slideshow of 2 of our house cats .

I hope you enjoy them! Anyone want to adopt a cat? Just speak up!!

Rain blessed rain!

2009-09-21T22:18:00.000-07:00

Up late tonight and it is amazing just how wonderful it is to have an open window and just stand there and listen to the blessed rain fall. No wind, no storm, just a grand rain. We have been dry for a while and the rain just seems to have washed the dirt from the ground and the dust from the air.

I don't know, maybe we don't take time to take it all in. We are all so busy. But taking time to listen intently to the rain and take that deep breath and smell the rain's superb aroma. Well, it just seems to be good for my soul. What a great way to end a Monday.

Monday was a wee bit slow on the homestead today. I have fibromyalgia and though I feel really blessed by God that I am feeling as well as I do, I do have days, lol, sometimes weeks, that I am a wee bit draggy. But maybe that's been God's plan for me to sharpen my patience and take time to smell the rain.

Hope your Tuesday will be blessed..

Freezing Bell Peppers Raw. Garden to Freezer Bags in Minutes!

2009-09-16T16:38:00.000-07:00

The lovely weather continues on the homestead today and gives us yet another chance to catch up on some things outside. For me, it was peppers. I am still getting bell peppers and sweet banana peppers. I love using peppers in my cooking. From eggs to chili, peppers just seem to make a huge difference.

I have been freezing the peppers. If you would like to know how..just go here. The thing I enjoy about freezing peppers is that it is easy and it is quick. Both are welcomed by me!

I was just out treating Pokey for her leg problems. If you remember, Pokey got trimmed way too short by the farrier. She was sooooo lame. But, she is getting around a bit better today. We took out all the Dexters except GH Angel and Martha. They keep her company. The boys, Stinker and Trick, like to romp and horse play with each other and they don't always care if someone is in their way. So, it was caution that led us to separate them. All praise to God, Pokey has come a long way and will continue to heal with His help.

Time for supper. Ever have nights when you are just not in the mood to make a meal? LOL..I am always ready to EAT a meal though!

Til next time..

Farrier trims horse's hooves too short..argh!

2009-09-12T04:12:00.000-07:00

I'm on my second cup of coffee and while gazing out the window am noticing that it sure is starting to stay dark in the mornings. We have gone close to 3 weeks with no rain and I would love to see a shower soon.

I can't believe that Daqs got sprayed by a skunk again!! If you look in the pets/animals category here, you will see what we will do to remedy that problem this morning..but oh my, when will Daqs learn that that black and white "kitty" is NOT a "kitty"!?

We have a darling old horse that shares our lives. Her name is Pokey. She is 30 and in great shape. Well..usually her hooves self trim. She has always been that way. But, lately her hooves got really long and just absolutely had to be trimmed. We called a farrier. By the time I got down to the barn, he had her front feet trimmed. SHORT..and I mean SHORT! I said oh my..you really trimmed the old girl short..he said yeah, she will probably limp a couple of weeks and be fine. Well, that was 2 weeks ago. Yesterday she barely put her front right down at all. So, off to the vet. Got some paste to give her as an anti inflammatory. I also got horse Absorbine Junior and put that on with a bit of massage. I feel soooooo bad for my Pokey. I bought her when she was 2 and broke her. Through all the moves in my life..Pokey has always stayed with me. I feel so bad that I let someone do this to her. The vet reassures me that she will heal..but I know that at 30 .. it will take a lot of time. I pray that she is not in horrendous pain. I am so upset with the farrier..I believe he should have known better. We will be treating her daily and praying for the best.

The homestead is starting to look like fall is coming. Time to make a list of what needs done before winter sets in. It sure looks like winter may come early this year. I hope it's not a hard one!

Have a great weekend!

2009-09-11T05:56:00.000-07:00

On this day I'll refrain from the homestead thoughts and turn this site's thoughts toward the memory of 9/11. Please join me.

President Obama, Please, Remember 9/11

2009-09-09T08:35:00.000-07:00

Hope everyone is having a great Wednesday. Well..I am back from the vacation..which is actually spent going to the Old Threshers Reunion at Mt. Pleasant, Iowa. Oh my..the weather was EXCELLENT!! Mid to upper 70s all week.

I was really glad that we went on Thursday and Friday..the crowds were lighter but by Saturday..oh my! It was jam packed everywhere! What a lovely family outing. People drive for the day..people bring campers and tents and stay a week or so. Kids, dogs, seniors, everyone enjoying the memories of times past.

Here is a small slide show of the Draft horses..oh my..they were absolutely awesome!! I hope you enjoy it!

Chilly on the homestead this morning!!

2009-08-31T06:15:00.000-07:00

Good morning..is anyone else thinking that we have had a month of fall already? We have had a very wet and a very cool August this year. And, while that has helped the cooling bill, it has raised heck with the fellas trying to put hay up. Hay may be expensive this year due solely to the cool and wet year we've had. It was a whopping 46 degrees this morning on our porch.

The homestead was pretty quiet this weekend. We were all kinda laid back with the cool weather and the past week's busy days. It's good to kick back and recharge sometimes.

We are looking forward to Thursday as the Old Threshers Reunion will begin. I love going to it and we do go every year. It's not very far from us, but when you drive in you see vehicles from all over the USA. My in-laws drive down every year with their camper and stay for the week at the Old Threshers. People are just wonderful there, very friendly, very helpful and it always turns out a good time for all.

I will definitely give you some feed back on the Old Threshers Reunion in Mt. Pleasant, Iowa later in the week.

Hope this Monday is the start of a blessed week for you all.

How to Make Meringue. You Don't Weep, it Doesn't Either!

2009-08-21T07:11:00.000-07:00

Ah..pie! My family and I love lemon and chocolate meringue pie! I have had so many people ask how I make my meringue. Well here it is!

How to Make Meringue. You Don't Weep, it Doesn't Either!

It really is easy to make meringue, as the article says, there are just some do and don't things. I hope this article helps give you the courage to try meringue again. There's something about a meringue pie around this homestead..it lightens everyone's moods and makes smiles appear!

Have a blessed Friday!

How to Make the Most of Your Beef Roast - Leftover Ideas

2009-08-16T17:21:00.001-07:00

It was a rainy Sunday, but it was an enjoyable Sunday! Everyone thinking about what the coming week has in store. I'm sure every family goes through the "groan" of Sunday evening and the thought of facing a new week. I hope that everyone has a great week this week and that we can all find a way to look forward to Monday a little more in the future!

Did any of you have roast beef for dinner? Are you facing leftovers and wondering just what meal you can whip up with the leftovers? Well..here are 4 leftover ideas for beef roast that just might help ya..and they are fairly quick and easy to do! Beef roast leftover ideas!

I'm thinking ahead to Monday and thinking that it might well be time to grab the onions that have been drying on the hayrack and start bundling them for winter use. We eat so many onions! I usually try to freeze a few too.

I think its supposed to rain again..if not, the lawn mower and I may have a date!

Treat yourself to good "Monday" thoughts!!

The Crop Duster and the Dexter Cattle

2009-08-14T13:15:00.000-07:00

What a beautiful day we are having today! I have a little bit of mowing left to do, but it's just been a great day to enjoy God's great outdoors! I have missed being on here and hope that I am slowly but surely making my way back..don't give up on me!

I wrote an article out of shear frustration on what has happened here on the homestead. A crop duster, just because he could, absolutely bombarded this place. He never pulled up once while he was spraying the neighbor's field. And the weird thing was, he would have had less stuff to maneuver had he NOT kept going over us. He absolutely ran the Dexter cattle into the ground. And my poor Victoria is VERY pregnant right now. We also have a couple (one of whom is Victoria) who are aged Dexters. We were sooooo mad!

We got his call letters and we called the man who hired him. Shortly he called us to "apologize". But hey, the damage was done. He also jumped the gun on when he pulled the trigger and got our lower pasture and orchard. We thought he was probably new..but he informed me that he had been doing this for 20 years. So, he really didn't have any excuse for what he did here.

A person tries to mind their own business and not bother anyone..and yet ya have to stand up to people like this who do things on purpose just to be rotten eggs. And we have to stand up for the Dexter cattle, goats and chickens that all live here. Just a note here...the chickens were so scared, even though they are inside their coop laying, that they did not lay that morning!

Well..here's to better days and nicer people!

Read: The Crop Duster and the Dexter Cattle

I am back!!

2009-08-06T06:28:00.001-07:00

I have been away from the computer most of the last month. And I am so glad to be back! I have been having some problems with my eyes and I had to limit my time on the computer. Ah, getting older is not for whimps! But, with God's grace and healing and a pair of computer glasses, I hope to be back full swing shortly!

Put up 20 pints of green beans yesterday. My green beans failed..I could not believe it. It's the first time since I have been gardening that my green beans absolutely failed. I don't know if it was the beans, the weather OR me! But, my friend Cat and my mother-in-law helped me out by giving me some of theirs. That is the great part about canning..the sharing..and I thank them both!

After a record breaking cool summer here..we are supposed to get "summer" heat by the weekend. That will be quite the shock for the animals and us.

Well..I am being good..so I won't stay long. I missed you all terribly and I will try hard to be back tomorrow. Hope the Lord has blessed you richly..I know He has me.

Canning carrots!

2009-07-19T06:50:00.000-07:00

Well, I must confess. I have a really hard time growing carrots. I believe my main problem is that the ground is too hard to get them to any size. I really love carrots. What to do? LOL...buy the carrots from the store, bring them home and can them!! That's right folks. I have a secret and it's out..I buy organic carrots in the store and bring them home and can them. How's that for honesty? If you have trouble growing carrots and buy them in the store or you have a bumper crop in your garden .. this article may help ya.

How to Can Carrots: My Carrot Canning Secret by Bobby Tall Horse

Have a blessed Sunday!

The Lord blessed our garden!

2009-07-14T16:45:00.000-07:00

Been a couple of days..hope all are fine. The homestead and all who live here are doing well here. I started to can potatoes today..oh boy..I have a lot of potatoes to either can or freeze! We went down to look at the onions and dare I say bumper crop? LOL...I will be busy for the next 2-3 weeks with just these two veggies. I am so thankful that the Lord blessed our garden so much. What a wonderful gift!!

I have fibromyalgia so I try to do just 1 canner full of whatever a day. I know it takes me longer..but I don't get so exhausted doing it this way. What a blessing the garden has been. The zucchini has also had multiple squash on it. We gave some to the neighbor and to his mom..lol..ya gotta love zucchini..it's the veggie that keeps on giving.

Well..all for now..I hope those who have gardens that have done well for them give thanks to the Lord for the bounty!

How to can peas!!

2009-07-10T06:02:00.000-07:00

Well..I'm exhausted from yesterday!! We had a GREAT time and I wouldn't have traded that day for anything. We went to the bakery and had a jump start for our energy..lol. We also visited all the little shops downtown and yes, we definitely went to the hardware store..it was delightful!

We stopped in at the cheese factory and bought curds and bologna and what not and then to the country store. Ate lunch and for home we went. Praise to God all went well and it was a safe trip!!

Now for a little "back to business" on the homesteading/garden. I will attempt to plant some more peas after this "rainy season" concludes. Until then, I thought maybe some of you had peas you didn't know what to do with. Freezing is great, don't get me wrong, I froze quite a few peas. But, my freezer space is limited and I always carry in the back of my mind.."what if the electricity goes out"? So, I have been trying to can a few peas each year too.

Canning peas is not hard..just time consuming. But I love the ease of throwing together some of these canned foods for quick soups and stews. It's so much less time consuming than having to actually cook the raw veggie.

So, if you are interested..

How to Can Peas

Have a great Friday and count your blessings!!

It's Kalona Day!!

2009-07-09T03:44:00.000-07:00

Once a year my mom, sister-in-law, niece and I go to Kalona. It's grand! Kalona is not a huge town, it has the sale barn for this part of the state..lol. It has quite a few Amish still living there and places to buy their goods.

I am sure that we will hit the bakery, cheese factory (you can buy cheese kurds and the like), the country market and (for me) the hardware store. I know..hardware store? I'll tell you why I go and usually spend my money there..they actually have stuff that a homesteader needs. Not for show mind you, but to purchase and put into use!! (At a reasonable price..usually.)

The weather is supposed to be hot and humid..we shall see! We like to get together at least 2x a year for shopping and just the mere experience of being with family..it's love! I guess if there is anything to be taken away from todays post..it might be something to do with that.

I don't care if it's shopping or having a tuna sandwich together. I don't care if it's family, a friend or someone you barely know...to share a piece of yourself is a good thing. I don't say that easily. In most people's eyes, I suppose I am a hermit of sorts for this day and age. I'm really not. I just love this homestead. I don't mind my own company or that of the animals that live here. But I do know that getting out once in a blue moon is good for a person...no matter who you are!

I will let you all know if I find anything I NEED at the Amish hardware store..lol. Have a great day..and enjoy it..no matter who you are spending it with.

The Zucchini is ready!!

2009-07-08T06:36:00.000-07:00

Good morning all! We took a few days for vacation..in our case that means that we just don't do computer work or go to work. We pretty well stay around the homestead though and just enjoy the homestead and Dexters and goats.

We did trade a cow and calf for a couple of steers over the weekend. So that meant a road trip..and I am not a comfortable hauler. But, all Praise to God, things went well with no incidents. We turned those 2 Dexter steers out at my mom's and brother's where there is some pasture and a whole lot of timber. They were like a couple of kids!!

Well, the zucchini has come on in full force. I am always hungry for that first zucchini. We love to fry zucchini and then kind of dress it up with variations once in a while. Frying zucchini is a mess, I'll admit that, but oh my is it ever worth it!!

If you don't know how to fry zucchini, this article should help. I know there are many ways to do this, so if you have a favorite way..PLEASE let us know!!

How to Fry Zucchini and Serving Suggestions by Bobby Tall Horse

It's wet, humid and cool this morning..another perfect gift from God!

Digging potatoes..making frozen hashbrowns!

2009-07-02T14:24:00.000-07:00

Hope all are having a great day today. The sun is shining..it's reasonably cool and all is well on the homestead..all Praise to God.

Late yesterday we started to dig some of our potatoes. The red ones. I think there were Pontiacs and Red Norlands. We were pleasantly surprised at the bounty. With all of the potatoes we dug and those yet in the ground, it was time to start deciding what to do with all of them.

I have decided on canning some whole semi-whole potatoes and making hash browns for the freezer. Have you ever tried to make hash browns and freeze them? It's not hard, but it does require some time. Here is an article that might help you :

How to Make and Freeze Homemade Hash Browns - It's Easy!!

I hope that you will find some help with this article. I also ask that you post your way of putting up hash browns or any other ways you store your potato bounty!

Tomorrow is Friday and the 4th is soon to be. God bless our troops. Those we have today and those who have gone before.

Another new Dexter baby on the homestead!

2009-06-29T06:27:00.000-07:00

Oh my, Saturday morning, bright and early, Ebony had her calf. A nice little bull calf that hopped up .. got his bath from momma, ate, tried out his new legs and then took a nap! LOL..I love Dexter babies!!

We all felt blessed this weekend with the absence of humidity in the air. Finally a person could work outside without feeling that heavy oppressive air. And it was BEAUTIFUL!! We are supposed to have a great rain free cool week so I hope that the guys can finally get hay down and back up without problems.

We celebrated our 16th wedding anniversary on Friday. How? By buying 3 new shade trees! Our house really needs some shade on the south and west sides, and we finally broke down and bought them. I will have to let you know how they do. I am excited about them.

We also weeded. Thankfully, due to the great weather, we were able to get the strawberries and onions and tomatoes totally and thoroughly weeded!! The onions look great..it won't be long before I can start bringing them in and freezing a few. The tomatoes are looking good too, but I doubt that they and the peppers will like the cooler weather. My strawberry patch is new this year, so I don't have any strawberries..just trying to establish nice big healthy plants this year.

Well, since it IS cooler, I think my project for today is going to be to go pull my pea rows up and take what peas are okay and get that spot ready to replant for more peas.

I hope you all have a blessed day! God has been good to this homestead and all who live here.

Where did my week go?

2009-06-27T16:49:00.000-07:00

Wow..I am so sorry I haven't been here. I don't know where the week went! I had a small problem with the computer early in the week..but that's not what got me behind. I think it was the weeding and the peas. Yes, the weeding and the peas.

I have put up 10 pint of canned peas and 8 pint of frozen peas. I need to pull my pea rows tomorrow or Monday and take the last of the peas off. I want to replant shortly for a late season pea crop.

The rain/storms have been constant here. I praise God that no damage has occurred on the homestead that He so graciously lets us use. But things are wet, muggy and the weeds and grass are really growing. I really and truly am starting to get worried about the hay crop this year. There hasn't been 3 good days in a row to mow, dry, windrow and bale for weeks here. We don't have hay to put up..but we do need to buy hay and I am seriously starting to get worried about what we are going to feed the animals this winter. Hope things turn around soon.

My potatoes have stopped blooming and we did have new potatoes and peas (creamed) that were just terrific. We may take a bigger sneak peak next week and see if something is ready to be canned.

Well..again, I am sorry that I was away..I will try to do better this coming week. I hope all are doing well.

Dexter Cattle Horned, Dehorned and Polled

2009-06-22T14:38:00.000-07:00

It's Monday..and oh brother, the storm we had last night! We had another 2 1/2 inches of rain last night. It is 99 degrees in the shade and I am in the air conditioning and glad of it. I decided today that I would post another Dexter cattle article. It is on the Dexter's horns or lack there of.

All but one of our Dexter cattle have horns. She had been dehorned before we bought her and we were nervous that she would be at a disadvantage being hornless. But, Petunia is a one of the largest Dexters that we have and she is also a strong willed cow. She ranks #2 in our herd's pecking order behind the bull (Sammy) and Victoria an aged cow that has run the herd since we first purchased the Dexters.

We prefer horns..but I will admit that I was nervous, not having owned cattle with horns before. They are very careful with their horns..even towards each other when they are disagreeing. The main thing is to remember that cattle throw their heads to get flys and you do not want to be in their path at that moment.

We actually love their horns. For us, it was part of the Dexter cattle charm. So, if you would like to read more about Dexter cattle..please read :

Dexter Cattle Horned, Dehorned and Polled by Bobby Tall Horse

Pic: Bobby Tall Horse
Houdini the young bull.

Dexter Cattle on the Homestead

2009-06-20T03:42:00.000-07:00

It's a great Saturday morning, after the storm comes the calm. Everything is clean, fresh, green and less humidity..it's all good!

A couple of days ago, I mentioned having Dexter cattle. We have Dexters for a reason here on our homestead. They were said to eat less than normal sized cattle..this has been the case. They are said to be easy on fences..this is definitely the case, as our old homestead has old old fencing. They calve easily and are hardy. They are also friendly. Most cattle are miniatures that are this sized. Not the Dexters, Dexter Cattle are a true breed, this is the size they have always been.

We enjoy the Dexters more than I can say. There's nothing better than starting the day with a cup of coffee on the back step watching Dexter calves play in the pasture. I have decided that since I talk so much about Dexters..I would post a few articles along the way to introduce you to them.

Dexter Cattle, Great for Homesteaders

picture is of Houdini a mature 3 year old Dexter Bull.

I hope you enjoy learning about the Dexter Cattle!

Easy DIY Project to Protect Young Trees from the String Trimmer

2009-06-18T09:10:00.000-07:00

For the most part, I don't mind trimming or mowing..I rather enjoy it. But, everyone on this homestead, people and animals alike, know that it's not always real safe when I'm on the mower or trimming. Nothing knows how dangerous I am more than trees..especially young ones. I ran across this article by Moeursalen and thought YES! this is for me!

Moeursalen has some great tips on how not to destroy what you are trying to trim..mostly trees! Please give his article a read. Many will enjoy his blog that is listed to the right side of this blog.

Easy DIY Project to Protect Young Trees from the String Trimmer by Moeursalen

Rain, more rain and a little ray of sunshine!! A new Dexter calf!!

2009-06-16T20:02:00.000-07:00

Oh my...I haven't written in here for a couple of days. I will catch ya all up on the homestead news. Still picking potato beetles and mostly larva off the potatoes. LOL..move along..nothing new here!! I did pick some peas and they were great! My onions seem to love the weather we are having. The tomatoes have absolutely come to a stand still..that is until the weather turned hotter and humid the last 4-5 days. Wow..what a difference..they are starting to look like something now.

The rain has got to be driving those with hay fields plum out of their minds. Rain..rain.. and more rain is in the forecast. Thankfully we haven't gotten huge amounts.. a couple of tenths here and there, but it all adds up to no baling..that's for sure.

In amongst the rain and other things..we had a heifer..Jezebel..that got bred before we wanted her to..oh my. Well..the barometer bottomed out today, it was raining and Jezzie decided that today was the day! I was sooo nervous. First she was in the pasture, then she was in the barn. Then she was back in the pasture and in labor. The rest of the cattle got all excited when she went into labor and were running around like chickens with their heads off. We got them locked up in another little pasture and let Jezzie, mother nature and the good Lord have the big pasture.

Jezzie is a Dexter cow. They are smaller than regular sized cows..the Dexter breed is just naturally small. They are from Ireland and I think their size made them hardy there. They don't eat as much as a regular cow. They can be milked or grown for meat. They can even be used as oxen. They are friendly and hardy.

Jezzie is blind in one eye and we have never been real sure how good she sees out of the other one. So, we were not sure how she was going to react .. going into labor and a calf coming out. Well, that little girl made us all proud here on the homestead. She had her baby and she jumped up and oh so carefully cleaned it from one end to the other and then repeated it all again..several times. What a doll. She let it eat and acted like a real pro.

Sitting here..I hear it starting to rain again. Jezzie and the calf are out in the big pasture still..with no barn. But, I trust the Lord will watch over them. Better for them to bond than to get separated in the milling of the herd in the barn and barn yard I think.

What a beautiful day..rain and all. I was blessed to see Jezzie's calf born. Blessed to see Jezzie grow up in front of my eyes today. Blessed to see that God has given Jezzie what it takes to make it in this world. It just doesn't get any better than this! Thank you God!!

Pics of the new member of this homestead tomorrow!! All for tonight. Hope you all have had a great Tuesday..even if it is raining!

How to Freeze Broccoli and Cauliflower - Without Green Worms!

2009-06-13T16:08:00.000-07:00

Oh boy..depending on where you live..the garden is starting to bring forth her bounty. For us, things like peas, potatoes, lettuce and radishes are all ready for the table. The broccoli and cauliflower are very close to being ready.

Ah, broccoli and cauliflower..I love going to the freezer in the middle of winter and grabbing a bag of either of them and having them for a meal. From garden to table..we do enjoy our broccoli and cauliflower. And, it really isn't that hard to freeze broccoli and cauliflower..it's just those little green worms that a person has to get past..lol.

Here is an article that I wrote on how to get rid of those pesky green worms when you are getting your broccoli and cauliflower ready for the freezer.

How to Freeze Broccoli and Cauliflower - Without Green Worms! by Bobby Tall Horse

I hope you don't get discouraged...just remember..we all had a first time when it comes to freezing and canning. Grab your coffee and get your salt and water ready for your broccoli and cauliflower...they are easy to freeze!!

Potatoes and Peas..from garden to plate..the wonder of it all.

2009-06-12T06:01:00.000-07:00

Good morning friends! I have a cup of tea and honey and some time to chat this fine morning. We have been so blessed with 70's and rain .. not too much..not little..just right. The rains have been hard on those trying to make hay this spring though. I feel bad for all of them trying to out guess the weather and still get the hay put up when it should be.

I was knee deep in my potatoes and peas yesterday. They are both in bloom..and yes, I am still walking the potato rows picking potato beetles and larva off..lol. I think one of my most favorite meals is new potatoes and peas. It looks like we are within about 5 days of being able to have that favorite meal of mine..

And it dawns on me just how great God is and just how great growing a garden is..and, just what a miracle it all turns out to be. I mean I put a seed in the ground (or potato piece) give it some water, weed a bit and before I know it..it's on my table! I am in constant awe of the Lord's plans on this homestead. And all of His wisdom in what He has created.

I never cease to be amazed at the birth process and every birth that I witness I am in awe at the new life that comes into the world. All according to God's plan. I get the same feelings when I see the garden grown..all from a small seed. The trees that give me shade and the birds a home are like statues that God has carved. And I have to stop..give thanks and continue to be amazed at the whole process.

I pray that there's never a day that I don't look up. I pray that there's never a day that I don't give thanks and praise to God for the blessings of how He created the world and all that's good in it.

Just some potato and peas thoughts..hope you have a great Friday!

Internet again!!

2009-06-10T10:58:00.000-07:00

Wow..talk about being spoiled and/or addicted to something! We lost our Internet on Sunday night and finally got it back today, Wednesday. The first day I was totally lost..by this morning I was thinking about how much time I spent doing other things that needed to be done instead of sitting in front of my computer so much!! I know that there has to be a happy medium. And, I did find out that the Internet has become my very best friend when it comes to looking up information for the homestead.

The things that I look up..like how long these potato beetles are going to last..are just a click away for me. With out the Internet..I was left to my own devices..lol. In the information category..the Internet is soooo worth having.

Just thought I would drop in and tell ya all that I am back!! Meet you with my cup of coffee tomorrow morning!!

Moving goats to the timber.

2009-06-07T05:13:00.000-07:00

Oh boy, yesterday (Saturday) we moved some of our goats to my brother and mom's timber. They wanted something to eat down the undergrowth. Wow..is it ever lush there. Anyway, we had 2 kids that were raised as bottle babies, 2 kid dam raised, and 2 older does that are on the bottom of the pecking order.

We got up early and got them loaded..that went reasonably well considering none had ever been loaded before. Then, we loaded up 2 hog huts that were in their lot and took them in another pickup. Off we went, me driving the old Ford with Daqs the dog in the front seat with me..and 2 hog huts turned upside down in the back. Hubby is following with the good truck and the trailer with the goats.

We arrive at my brother Randy's and it is showering, not storming, but showering. Now those of you who have goats know that goats are not REAL excited about getting wet.

Well, we get the huts unloaded first. Then back the trailer up. I had brought wormer for the 2 large does and wormed them before we let them off. Little Black, the only whether, had his set of "equipment" just hanging by a wee bit..we sprayed him like crazy with Blue Kote and gave him a small shot of penicillin just to deter any infection from his sack falling off.

Those goats came off of the trailer and it was like they thought they were in goat heaven. Want to eat trees? Want to eat shrubs? Want to eat weeds? It was their choice and after the enitial shock, they started in. The timber is really dense, lol, but my brother Randy did make some "paths" with a lawn mower to help them feel more secure. Their huts are also sitting in a small clearing..it's just wonderful!

Mom called last night to say that they were all doing well and that they were using their huts and seemed to be fitting in just fine. We have never left our livestock somewhere else and I will admit that it made me sad and anxious. I think the fact that 2 of them are bottle babies that greeted me everyday .. long after the bottle was put away..has a lot to do with it.

The Homestead is lot quieter this morning..and I am still trying to get over the absense of those five goats..lol. But the goats must love the timber compared to the pasture they have been in. Even though the pasture is lush..it doesn't have all the "goat goodies" that they so love.

That's what's happening on the homestead this weekend..today it is raining and storming so outside activities are at a stand still. Enjoy your day!

Free Chore Charts for Kids

2009-06-03T06:56:00.001-07:00

Talk about timing..yesterday I revealed how I had procrastinated with my ironing. And, I did get 7 uniforms done yesterday. I also washed more and will finish ironing them today..God willing! So this morning I am reading and find this article about Chore Charts for Kids..I had to laugh..I really do need a chart for me too!

So, for those of you that have kids and chores for them to do. I think some of these chore charts for kids would be great! They are also FREE and what's better than that?

Enjoy!

Free Chore Charts for Kids by Jennifer Wagner

Ironing and procrastination!

2009-06-02T06:59:00.000-07:00

Okay, so you all know it's been busy around here this last weekend with the butchering and canning of the chickens. Meanwhile..my ironing has piled up to an enormous monster that I have quite frankly been turning my back on.

My husband needs uniforms for work..since we don't like "chips" in his uniforms that the cleaners put in..I have done is uniforms at home for quite sometime. I do believe that this is the worse case of procrastination on my ironing duties that I have had since I started doing them!

Why do I put stuff off? I don't know. Sometimes its because I say to myself..if I can't do it the way I want it done..I will wait until I have time to do it perfect. What a loser of a line of thinking..lol! That is exactly how I get myself buried up to my eyeballs in stuff like ironing.

But, today is the day. He's out of ironed uniforms..I would rather go to the dentist than send him in a non ironed uniform to work!! LOL...move over excuses..I'm diving in and doing my ironing today! What would have taken a few minutes, perhaps an hour, will now take a couple three hours..lol. Lesson learned? I hope so..but I'm not positive. Procrastination is nothing new to me..I doubt if I'm cured!

Until tomorrow..when I disclose if I indeed did the ironing!!

Friends : Taken for granted until you need one.

Butchering and canning chickens this weekend!

2009-05-31T17:55:00.000-07:00

Okay..I am not excited about butchering..but this was the weekend for chickens. It did go smoothly though. My girlfriend and I partner on meat chickens. She raises them and I butcher with her. I swapped her some laying hens for my part of the feed. It works out great..and she is just a terrific person. So, all in all, butchering day is a pleasure of sorts. We have a great chat and get caught up on each other while we are butchering chickens!

When I came home..I totally packed my butchered chickens in ice in coolers. There they stayed until this morning. First thing was to wash the chickens again and then start boiling them. Then I picked the meat off of the bones and canned them. I am still sitting here at 8:00 waiting for the canner to finish. And I still have probably a half dozen more jars to do..they may have to wait until first thing in the morning. The meat is picked off and in a large bag in the frig.

I am tired..lol..I hate to admit that! But what a great weekend in it's own way. God blessed us with good friends..great chickens..and the knowledge to do something good with them for our families.

Well..that's the news from the homestead this weekend. I'm off to do battle with the knats while picking potato beetle larva off my potatoes!

Parents Abused by Children ~ Falling Through the Cracks

2009-05-28T11:32:00.000-07:00

You all know that I live on a homestead. For the most part..I stay here, at home. I don't get into other people's business, I enjoy what God has given me right here. But, there are times, when even homesteaders like me have to try and step up to the plate, reach out into the world and help someone. A person just has to..that's all.

The following link is a story about a woman that I attempted to get to safety this last week. It's a hard story to tell. It was a very hard story to watch and hear unfold.

I implore you all to take a look around you. Is there a parent being abused by their children? If so, please try to help them. You may be the only thing that keeps them from Falling through the Cracks.

Parents Abused by Children ~ Falling Through the Cracks by Bobby Tall Horse

The Lord gave me eyes to see and a heart with compassion.
To waste it seems a sin.

Home Remedy for Getting Skunk Odor Off Dogs. It's in Your Kitchen!!

2009-05-24T05:09:00.000-07:00

Whether you live in town or on the homestead..if you have a dog I know you will understand what we went through recently with our Daqs. She was sprayed 2 times in like 4-5 days. Thankfully we had tried this method of getting the skunk odor off of her last fall. I am VERY happy to report that she has stayed away from skunks the last couple of weeks..lol.

Seriously though, this simple combination of baking soda and vinegar really does take the odor away. Be sure to use caution with your eyes and the dog's eyes. Good luck!

Home Remedy for Getting Skunk Odor Off Dogs. It's in Your Kitchen!!

by Bobby Tall Horse

2009-05-23T05:42:00.000-07:00

Sometimes time is short or space is limited and we still want some flowers in our yards. Well, Kay Whittenhauer has an article on how to do just that..with a wheelbarrow! I am going to try this planter this year..send me a pic if you would like to show yours! Thanks Kay!

How to Make a Wheelbarrow Planter Box