http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog Trial and Error Homesteading Thu, 24 Nov 2011 18:16:02 +0000 en hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.1.3 Copyright © Stumbling Homestead 2010 darcy@stumblinghomestead.com (Stumbling Homestead) darcy@stumblinghomestead.com (Stumbling Homestead) 1440 http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/wp-content/plugins/podpress/images/powered_by_podpress.jpg http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog 144 144 http://feeds.feedburner.com/stumblinghomestead/mgHQ Take Control of Your Food Supply The Stumbling Homestead Podcast covers all aspects of modern homesteading. This is a rolling account of the successes and failures of our family, as we tackle (for the first time): moving from the city to the country, small scale farming, raising chickens, raising cows, food storage, preparation for power outages, pets and their role in homesteading, alternate investment strategies, greenwashing, security, food freedom and our liberties, composting, gardening strategies, homeschooling, and eating nutrient dense foods. Homesteading, Survival, Weston Price, Nourishing Traditions, Small Scale Farming, Raising Chickens, Family Cows, Homeschooling Stumbling Homestead Stumbling Homestead darcy@stumblinghomestead.com no no http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2011/11/episode-39-stumbling-almanac/ http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2011/11/episode-39-stumbling-almanac/#comments Thu, 24 Nov 2011 18:16:02 +0000 admin http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/?p=1449 http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2011/11/episode-39-stumbling-almanac/feed/ 1 0:58:30 Tanya and Extra Happy Thanksgiving everyone! Here’s a quick update from the homestead. Enjoy! Tanya and Extra Happy Thanksgiving everyone! Here’s a quick update from the homestead. Enjoy! Chickens, Children, Cows, Homesteading, Podcasts Stumbling Homestead no no http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2011/06/episode-38-from-the-milking-barn/ http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2011/06/episode-38-from-the-milking-barn/#comments Sun, 26 Jun 2011 00:00:46 +0000 admin http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/?p=1440 Continue reading →]]> http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2011/06/episode-38-from-the-milking-barn/feed/ 7 1:08:35 We’re back! After a number of web site issues because of a malware attack, the site has been rebuilt. Here’s a unique episode recorded while I milked the cow. The frequency of future podcasts will be changing to every other week or som[...] We're back! After a number of web site issues because of a malware attack, the site has been rebuilt. Here's a unique episode recorded while I milked the cow. The frequency of future podcasts will be changing to every other week or sometimes monthly, as homesteading and life demands focus my attention elsewhere. But fear not, our journey continues, and we'll keep you posted on the high and low points. Note: I will most likely be doing much more frequent updates via short video clips on our Stumbling Homestead YouTube channel, so please subscribe if you're interested. Cows, Homesteading, Podcasts Stumbling Homestead no no http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2011/05/a-video-tour-of-our-backyard/ http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2011/05/a-video-tour-of-our-backyard/#comments Tue, 24 May 2011 04:59:05 +0000 admin http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/?p=1431 http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2011/05/a-video-tour-of-our-backyard/feed/ 0 http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2011/05/episode-37-hoop-houses-and-farm-tuning/ http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2011/05/episode-37-hoop-houses-and-farm-tuning/#comments Sat, 21 May 2011 19:43:36 +0000 admin http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/?p=1420 Continue reading →]]> http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2011/05/episode-37-hoop-houses-and-farm-tuning/feed/ 7 0:50:31 Join us this week for homestead updates, including: Our milk cow and rotational grazing using a picket pin Goldfish in water bowls for mosquitoes Dealing with roosters, and introducing young members to an existing chicken flock Hoop House constru[...] Join us this week for homestead updates, including: Our milk cow and rotational grazing using a picket pin Goldfish in water bowls for mosquitoes Dealing with roosters, and introducing young members to an existing chicken flock Hoop House construction Bio-intensive planting versus traditional garden rows Gophers Tree house and tire swing up! References: http://stevesgreenhouses.com/ Cows, Gardening, Homesteading, Podcasts Stumbling Homestead no no http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2011/05/episode-36-radical-home-ec-with-kelly-coyne-erik-knutzen/ http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2011/05/episode-36-radical-home-ec-with-kelly-coyne-erik-knutzen/#comments Sun, 15 May 2011 16:57:42 +0000 admin http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/?p=1399 Continue reading →]]> http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2011/05/episode-36-radical-home-ec-with-kelly-coyne-erik-knutzen/feed/ 1 1:00:22 This week it was a pleasure to speak with Kelly Coyne and Erik Knutzen about their homestead and new book, Making It: Radical Home Ec for a Post-Consumer World. Join us as we discuss: Their new book, Making It, and the countless valuable do-it-yo[...] This week it was a pleasure to speak with Kelly Coyne and Erikc Knutzen about their homestead and new book, Making It: Radical Home Ec for a Post-Consumer World. Join us as we discuss: Their new book, Making It, and the countless valuable do-it-yourself projects using common ingredients or items. Urban homesteading communities Time banking Chickens and bees in an urban backyard Foraging tips Their gardening approach References: Making It: Radical Home Ec for a Post-Consumer World http://www.rootsimple.com/ The Urban Homestead (Expanded & Revised Edition): Your Guide to Self-Sufficient Living in the Heart of the City (Process Self-reliance Series) Barefoot Books Giveaway: We have a winner. Congratulations Daniel! Homesteading, Podcasts Stumbling Homestead no no http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2011/05/episode-35-barefoot-books/ http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2011/05/episode-35-barefoot-books/#comments Sat, 07 May 2011 15:51:13 +0000 admin http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/?p=1385 Continue reading →]]> http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2011/05/episode-35-barefoot-books/feed/ 8 0:46:59 This week it was a pleasure to interview Leah Lesser, mom, and Group Communications Director for Barefoot Books. Barefoot books is a grass-roots mom-founded publishing company that provides childrens books, audio, and video content with a consiste[...] This week it was a pleasure to interview Leah Lesser, mom, and Group Communications Director for Barefoot Books. Barefoot books is a grass-roots mom-founded publishing company that provides childrens books, audio, and video content with a consistent high quality. If you're like me, and always searching for good content to read to your children, Barefoot Books is a great resource. Join us as we discuss: Free book giveaway to one of the listeners who comments on this post before Friday, May 13th 2011 (can't ship to P.O. Boxes) The core values of Barefoot books Many of the stories offered High quality media from barefootbooks.com The musical offerings from Barefoot books The ambassador program as a potential revenue source for homesteaders or homeschoolers References: Barefoot catalog: http://www.barefootbooks.com/shop/ Podcast storytimes: http://www.barefootbooks.com/podcast (podcast on itunes) Direct-selling opportunity: http://www.barefootbooks.com/community/become_an_ambassador/ On facebook On Twitter @liveBarefoot Barefoot books music videos on YouTube Children, Homesteading, Podcasts Stumbling Homestead no no http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2011/04/episode-34-mikey-sklar-of-holy-scrap-hotsprings/ http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2011/04/episode-34-mikey-sklar-of-holy-scrap-hotsprings/#comments Sat, 30 Apr 2011 15:45:13 +0000 admin http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/?p=1373 Continue reading →]]> http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2011/04/episode-34-mikey-sklar-of-holy-scrap-hotsprings/feed/ 0 1:02:52 This week it is my pleasure to bring you an interview with Mikey Sklar of Holy Scrap Hotsprings. Mikey has an interesting story: five years ago he and his girlfriend quit their jobs in New York city and bought a trailer park in a small town in New[...] This week it is my pleasure to bring you an interview with Mikey Sklar of Holy Scrap Hotsprings. Mikey has an interesting story: five years ago he and his girlfriend quit their jobs in New York city and bought a trailer park in a small town in New Mexico. They now live off grid in New Mexico, where they produce much of their own food and energy, as well as a variety of automated homesteading devices and herbal products, which they sell on their website. Join us as we discuss: The reason that a small town makes a great location for a homestead Temperature control device that can be used with many appliances Converting a chest freezer into a low energy fridge Off grid benefits with an on grid option Foraging References: blog.holyscraphotsprings.com Holy Scrap HotSprings online store Homesteading, Podcasts Stumbling Homestead no no http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2011/04/episode-33-critical-thinking-on-the-homestead/ http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2011/04/episode-33-critical-thinking-on-the-homestead/#comments Sat, 23 Apr 2011 11:00:13 +0000 admin http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/?p=1340 Continue reading →]]> http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2011/04/episode-33-critical-thinking-on-the-homestead/feed/ 7 1:02:39   Critical thinking is one of the most important skills you can teach kids Critical thinking is a tool: we can use it to sort out the latest crises we hear about every day Learning to recognize logical fallicies as a way to develop better cri[...]   Critical thinking is one of the most important skills you can teach kids Critical thinking is a tool: we can use it to sort out the latest crises we hear about every day Learning to recognize logical fallicies as a way to develop better critical thinking skills Logical Fallicies (some of my own, but much of this taken from the Skeptoid episodes): Two main categories: 1) Unrelated points to discredit argument: Discredit the messenger Distract from the main argument Random points or non-sequitors Appeal to emotions Sensational wording or rhetoric 2) Faulty inference or reasoning (considers facts, but jumps to faulty conclusions) sample size or faulty generalization: “but I know someone who…” Faulty pattern recognition: not recognizing random coincidence for what it is, and correlation not causation Exaggeration or edge case reasoning, like “it’s a slippery slope” or arguing extremes to discredit a more moderate middle alternative References: http://skeptoid.com/ 3 Skeptoid episodes on Logical Fallacies (the first 3 results on this search page)   Greenwashing, Homesteading, Podcasts Stumbling Homestead no no http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2011/04/the-hoop-chicken-tractor/ http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2011/04/the-hoop-chicken-tractor/#comments Sat, 16 Apr 2011 19:54:50 +0000 admin http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/?p=1320 Continue reading →]]> http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2011/04/the-hoop-chicken-tractor/feed/ 2 http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2011/04/episode-32-stumbling-almanac/ http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2011/04/episode-32-stumbling-almanac/#comments Sat, 16 Apr 2011 17:00:41 +0000 admin http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/?p=1306 Continue reading →]]> http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2011/04/episode-32-stumbling-almanac/feed/ 6 0:40:42 This week we discuss a number of homestead updates, with a focus on our recent mistakes. Topics discussed: Accidental spring broccoli Using cow manure too early The loss of a calf Accidental rooster purchase Building Mason Bee houses Am I crazy fo[...] This week we discuss a number of homestead updates, with a focus on our recent mistakes. Topics discussed: Accidental spring broccoli Using cow manure too early How we accidentally killed our calf Accidental rooster purchase Building Mason Bee houses Am I crazy for wanting my kids to grow up to be farmers? References: Everything I Want To Do Is Illegal: War Stories From the Local Food Front by Joel Salatin http://www.saveourskills.com/episode-13-beneficial-garden-pollinators-mason-bees at saveourskills.com Nature's Harmony podcast Homesteading, Podcasts Stumbling Homestead no no http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2011/04/episode-31-family-harvest-eating-with-keith-snow/ http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2011/04/episode-31-family-harvest-eating-with-keith-snow/#comments Sat, 09 Apr 2011 17:00:31 +0000 admin http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/?p=1278 Continue reading →]]> http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2011/04/episode-31-family-harvest-eating-with-keith-snow/feed/ 1 1:01:30 This week we had the pleasure of interview chef Keith Snow of harvesteating.com. Keith’s website and podcasts cover cooking and eating seasonally with fresh, nutrient-dense ingredients. He’s a great source of ideas and inspiration for [...] This week we had the pleasure of interview chef Keith Snow of harvesteating.com. Keith's website and podcasts cover cooking and eating seasonally with fresh, nutrient-dense ingredients. He's a great source of ideas and inspiration for the ever-plaguing question: what should I prepare for family meals today? Topics discussed: The philosophy behind local seasonal eating How to work seasonal eating and preparation into a busy family schedule Planning ahead to save time in food preparation by cooking larger batches and freezing How to get kids to eat more healthy Preparing on-the-go healthy snacks for your children and yourself Involving kids in food preparation References: http://www.harvesteating.com/ http://www.nuc.berkeley.edu/node/2174 http://www.avianaquamiser.com/ Children, Food, Homesteading, Podcasts Stumbling Homestead no no http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2011/04/the-avian-aqua-miser-installation/ http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2011/04/the-avian-aqua-miser-installation/#comments Sat, 09 Apr 2011 01:22:38 +0000 admin http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/?p=1291 Continue reading →]]> http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2011/04/the-avian-aqua-miser-installation/feed/ 3 http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2011/04/episode-30-poor-richards-almanac/ http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2011/04/episode-30-poor-richards-almanac/#comments Sat, 02 Apr 2011 17:00:32 +0000 admin http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/?p=1265 Continue reading →]]> http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2011/04/episode-30-poor-richards-almanac/feed/ 5 1:02:37 Okay, so it’s not Poor Richard, but in the style of this lively almanac of yesteryear, we’d like to do some homestead updates. Join us this week as we discuss our updates and sample a little bit of wisdom from the legendary Benjamin Fr[...] Okay, so it's not Poor Richard, but in the style of this lively almanac of yesteryear, we'd like to do some homestead updates. Join us this week as we discuss our updates and sample a little bit of wisdom from the legendary Benjamin Franklin. Topics discussed: Chicken tractor updates and doubling our flock Cows and picket pins Kookoolan Farms Why most organic farms are not using organic compost A nuclear physicist and farmer, Koorosh Zaerpoor, informs us about radiation fallout on the West Coast Some nuggets of wisdom from the autobiography of Benjamin Franklin References: www.kookoolanfarms.com The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin (free audio book at librivox.org) Homesteading, Podcasts Stumbling Homestead no no http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2011/03/episode-29-off-grid-living-with-cam-mather/ http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2011/03/episode-29-off-grid-living-with-cam-mather/#comments Sat, 26 Mar 2011 17:00:12 +0000 admin http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/?p=1254 Continue reading →]]> http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2011/03/episode-29-off-grid-living-with-cam-mather/feed/ 4 1:00:02 This week we had the great pleasure of interviewing Cam Mather, an experienced homesteader and off-grid blogger. Cam operates the independent Aztext Press from his remote 150 acres in Ontario, Canada. Cam can certainly teach us much about marrying[...] This week we had the great pleasure of interviewing Cam Mather, an experienced homesteader and off-grid blogger. Cam operates the independent Aztext Press from his remote 150 acres in Ontario, Canada. We can learn a lot about marrying technology with a rural lifestyle from this man. Join us as we discuss: Frugality as a pre-requisite to buying land Choosing a homestead site Internet connectivity options Mineral rights, tractor as a good investment Solar panels instead of 401k Water heating options Wood heating as a responsible renewable option Growing and storing food and root cellars Homesteading replacing the gym workout Making the transition with pre-teen kids To benefit from Cam's accumulated wisdom, please consider supporting him by purchasing a book or DVD. References: Cam's blog: http://www.cammather.com/blog Books and DVDs: http://aztext.com/ Children, Gardening, Homesteading, Podcasts Stumbling Homestead no no http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2011/03/episode-28-anna-hess-of-the-walden-effect/ http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2011/03/episode-28-anna-hess-of-the-walden-effect/#comments Sat, 19 Mar 2011 13:00:25 +0000 admin http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/?p=1225 Continue reading →]]> http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2011/03/episode-28-anna-hess-of-the-walden-effect/feed/ 1 1:00:22 This week it is our pleasure to speak with Anna Hess of www.waldeneffect.org. The Walden Effect is a homesteading blog (currently in year 5) which chronicles successes and failures of Anna and Mark as they carve out a homestead and a living from t[...] This week it is our pleasure to speak with Anna Hess of www.waldeneffect.org. The Walden Effect is a homesteading blog (currently in year 5) which chronicles successes and failures of Anna and Mark as they carve out a homestead and a living from their rural acreage in southwest Virginia. I think that this was a great interview packed with useful information. Check out their blog for more great homesteading information. Topics discussed: * Purchasing land cheaply * Starting a microbusiness and leaving your day job behind * Chicken pasturing: growing plants to sustain your flock without buying feed * Tips on keeping a rooster (hen/rooster ratio) * The avian aqua miser: automatic chicken waterer * Growing mushrooms * Composting and worm bins * Raising protein for chickens References: * http://www.waldeneffect.org/ * Starting a microbusiness: http://www.wetknee.com/microbusiness/ * Automatic chicken waterer: http://www.avianaquamiser.com/ * Mycelium Running, by Paul Stamets * http://theoutdoorpodcast.com/ Chickens, Homesteading, Podcasts Stumbling Homestead no no http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2011/03/episode-27-music-instead-of-tv/ http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2011/03/episode-27-music-instead-of-tv/#comments Sat, 12 Mar 2011 18:00:45 +0000 admin http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/?p=1208 Continue reading →]]> http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2011/03/episode-27-music-instead-of-tv/feed/ 6 0:57:16 A little on the lighter side this week, we’re going to talk about the role of music on our homestead. Topics discussed include: Music as an alternative entertainment option Music as a self-sufficient entertainment source How to raise a musi[...] A little on the lighter side this week, we're going to talk about the role of music on our homestead. Topics discussed include: * Music as an alternative entertainment option * Music as a self-sufficient entertainment source * Some good suggestions on introducing music and instruments to young children * A philosophy of teaching music to young children * Some recommended instruments to start out with References: * http://startpage.com/ * http://www.buxtonfeed.com/ * http://ohkruse.com/poultry-gamebird.html * “Food Sovereignty” law passed in small Maine town * Raffi Concert DVD (for kids) * The Survival Channel on Facebook Children, Homesteading, Podcasts Stumbling Homestead no no http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2011/03/episode-26-choosing-land-for-a-homestead/ http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2011/03/episode-26-choosing-land-for-a-homestead/#comments Sat, 05 Mar 2011 18:00:57 +0000 admin http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/?p=1200 Continue reading →]]> http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2011/03/episode-26-choosing-land-for-a-homestead/feed/ 5 0:57:25 This week we respond to several listener emails about selecting land. Some factors to consider in choosing homesteading land: Acreage Distance to population Accessibility: long gravel driveways/roads need to be maintained Neighbors Water is vital[...] This week we respond to several listener emails about selecting land. Some factors to consider in choosing homesteading land: * Acreage * Distance to population * Accessibility: long gravel driveways/roads need to be maintained * Neighbors * Water is vital * Drainage * Existing Buildings * Slope * Wooded versus pasture * Energy (work with the site and use it's characteristics) References: * Back to Basics Edited by Abigail R. Gehring Homesteading, Podcasts Stumbling Homestead no no http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2011/02/episode-25-homestead-home-design/ http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2011/02/episode-25-homestead-home-design/#comments Sat, 26 Feb 2011 18:00:36 +0000 admin http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/?p=1186 Continue reading →]]> http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2011/02/episode-25-homestead-home-design/feed/ 13 0:59:19 This week’s podcast discusses some ideas for homestead house design, including: Natural building methods Today’s tiny kitchens, and how they are not realistic for homestead food preparation Size of the home Kitchen plus great room as t[...] This week's podcast discusses some ideas for homestead house design, including: * Natural building methods * Today's tiny kitchens, and how they are not realistic for homestead food preparation * Size of the home * Kitchen plus great room as the main consideration * Wood heating as a viable option References: * http://www.cobcottage.com/ * Heating My Home Is My Hobby by Cam Mather * http://www.monolithic.com/ * http://www.permies.com/ Homesteading, Podcasts Stumbling Homestead no no http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2011/02/episode-24-creating-a-local-economy/ http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2011/02/episode-24-creating-a-local-economy/#comments Fri, 18 Feb 2011 20:07:49 +0000 admin http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/?p=1170 Continue reading →]]> http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2011/02/episode-24-creating-a-local-economy/feed/ 2 0:57:49 This week we discuss the challenges facing our continually eroding local economies, and some possible steps that we can take to reverse this trend. We focus on local merchants versus the less-expensive big box stores, local farmers versus distant f[...] This week we discuss the challenges facing our continually eroding local economies, and some possible steps that we can take to reverse this trend. We focus on local merchants versus the less-expensive big box stores, local farmers versus distant food, local banks, and local charities. References: * http://solari.com/blog/?p=10289 * Great silver and gold coin dealer (via U.S. mail): the-moneychanger.com * www.localharvest.org. * Check out local banks at http://banktracker.msnbc.msn.com/banks/ * How To Find and Evaluate a Local Bank * http://www.lehmans.com/ * Intro to permaculture concepts * Greening the desert * Deep bedding for chickens * Black Soldier Fly Larvae * Raising Meal Worms * Paul Wheaton interview on the Survival Podcast Homesteading, Podcasts Stumbling Homestead no no http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2011/02/episode-23-free-range-versus-confined-chickens/ http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2011/02/episode-23-free-range-versus-confined-chickens/#comments Sat, 12 Feb 2011 17:24:12 +0000 admin http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/?p=1158 Continue reading →]]> http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2011/02/episode-23-free-range-versus-confined-chickens/feed/ 23 0:56:39 This week we revisit chickens, to discuss feeding and shelter options. Topics discussed: Buying feed: GMO versus non-GMO. Options for feeding your chickens protein. Free ranging versus chicken tractors versus greenhouse confinement. Predators Ref[...] This week we revisit chickens, to discuss feeding and shelter options. Topics discussed: * Buying feed: GMO versus non_GMO. * Options for feeding your chickens protein. * Free ranging versus chicken tractors versus greenhouse confinement. * Predators References: Free Range = Sustainable Right? by matronofhusbandry Chicken Forest Pasture Experiment by Anna at waldeneffect.org Chickens, Food, Homesteading, Podcasts Stumbling Homestead no no http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2011/02/episode-22-book-review-of-joel-salatins-lunatic-farmer/ http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2011/02/episode-22-book-review-of-joel-salatins-lunatic-farmer/#comments Sat, 05 Feb 2011 18:00:16 +0000 admin http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/?p=1034 Continue reading →]]> http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2011/02/episode-22-book-review-of-joel-salatins-lunatic-farmer/feed/ 7 0:57:01 Join us for a book review of Joel Salatin’s latest work: The Sheer Ecstasy of Being A Lunatic Farmer. Chapters are examined in the context of our homesteading activities. References: Book of Virtues: A Treasury of Great Moral Stories Edited [...] Join us for a book review of Joel Salatin's latest work: The Sheer Ecstasy of Being A Lunatic Farmer. Chapters are examined in the context of our homesteading activities. References: * Book of Virtues: A Treasury of Great Moral Stories Edited by William J. Bennett * The Sheer Ecstasy of Being A Lunatic Farmer by Joel Salatin * Herrick Kimball: http://thedeliberateagrarian.blogspot.com/ * Hannah Coulter, by Wendell Berry * Simply Charlotte Mason forum (children's book suggestions) Homesteading Stumbling Homestead no no http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2011/01/episode-21-nutrient-dense-food-storage/ http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2011/01/episode-21-nutrient-dense-food-storage/#comments Sat, 29 Jan 2011 18:00:22 +0000 admin http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/?p=156 Continue reading →]]> http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2011/01/episode-21-nutrient-dense-food-storage/feed/ 10 1:00:00 Many nutritionally dense foods will soon spoil if left out. The challenge then, is how to develop a three or six month stockpile of these foods. Join us as we discuss storage options for: Fats Meat Nuts and Seeds Herbs, Spices, and Condiments Vi[...] Many nutritionally dense foods will soon spoil if left out. The challenge then, is how to develop a three or six month stockpile of these foods. Join us as we discuss storage options for: * Fats * Meat * Nuts and Seeds * Herbs, Spices, and Condiments * Vitamins * Vegetables * Fruit * Dairy * Grains * Beans * Prepared Foods * Stretching Protein No knead bread: 1. 3.5 cups filtered water 2. .5 teaspoon of slow rise yeast (like Fleishman's) 3. .5 teaspoon of sea salt 4. 3 cups of spelt or kamut or hard red turket wheat (least preferable) Freshly ground 5. 1 cup of barley or millet or corn or rye or oats 6. .25 cup of one other grain 7. .25 cup of another grain 8. mix grain all together and grind it 9. add it to the water, yeast, and salt mixture 10. add handful of raisins and a tablespoon of cinnamon 11. cover the bowl and let sit for 24-72 (or even a week) hrs. Gets more sourdough-y 12. Fermentation will disable enzyme inhibitors that are in all grain. 13. Put covered frying pan in oven and heat it (empty) to 425. Scoop out half to a third of the dough and put it in the pan, put lid back on and put it in the oven for 30-35 minutes. 14. When done, tip the pan and the bread falls out, no cleaning of the dish. 15. This can be eaten with yogurt, chili, etc. References: * http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/recommended-books/ * Making the Best of Basics (Family Preparedness Handbook), by James Talmage Stevens * The Weston A. Price Foundation (westonaprice.org) * Nourishing Traditions by Sally Fallon * Nutrition and Physical Degeneration, by Weston A. Price * Russ Silver’s DVD, Food Storage as a Lifestyle * Paleo Prepper thread from The Survival Podcast Forum * Bulk Organic Food from Amazon * Ocean's Alive fish guide and the Seafood Watch Program Food, Homesteading, Podcasts Stumbling Homestead no no http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2011/01/episode-20-homeschoolers-interviewed/ http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2011/01/episode-20-homeschoolers-interviewed/#comments Sat, 22 Jan 2011 16:31:27 +0000 admin http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/?p=1055 Continue reading →]]> http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2011/01/episode-20-homeschoolers-interviewed/feed/ 3 1:05:10 Join us as we interview three homeschooling families and learn from their experiences. We discuss the transition from institutional schooling to a homeschool approach. Topics include: homeschool philosophy, structured versus non-structured curricul[...] Join us as we interview three homeschooling families and learn from their experiences. We discuss the transition from institutional schooling to a homeschool approach. Topics include: homeschool philosophy, structured versus non-structured curriculum, socialization, and student motivation. Also referenced: The Successful Homeschool Family Handbook, by Dr. Raymond and Dorothy Moore Children, Homesteading, Podcasts Stumbling Homestead no no http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2011/01/episode-19-holistic-child-care-with-dr-randall-neustaedter/ http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2011/01/episode-19-holistic-child-care-with-dr-randall-neustaedter/#comments Sat, 15 Jan 2011 18:00:07 +0000 admin http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/?p=1002 Continue reading →]]> http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2011/01/episode-19-holistic-child-care-with-dr-randall-neustaedter/feed/ 10 1:02:43 Join us this week as we discuss holistic child care with Dr. Randall Neustaedter. We discuss the philosophy of holistic pediatrics, prenatal nutrition, supplements, breastfeeding, co-sleeping, and informed vaccine decisions. Dr. Neustaedter has pr[...] Join us this week as we discuss holistic child care with Dr. Randall Neustaedter. We discuss the philosophy of holistic pediatrics, prenatal nutrition, supplements, breastfeeding, co-sleeping, and informed vaccine decisions. Children, Homesteading, Podcasts Stumbling Homestead no no http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2011/01/episode-18-listener-comments/ http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2011/01/episode-18-listener-comments/#comments Sat, 08 Jan 2011 18:00:21 +0000 admin http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/?p=1088 Continue reading →]]> http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2011/01/episode-18-listener-comments/feed/ 8 1:01:37 There’s been a wealth of good information provided recently by listeners via their comments and emails. I thought that it would be useful to share these with everyone this week. Join me, as I discuss: - Gever Tulley, and Five Dangerous Things[...] There's been a wealth of good information provided recently by listeners via their comments and emails. I thought that it would be useful to share these with everyone this week. Join me, as I discuss: - Gever Tulley, and Five Dangerous Things You Should Let Your Children Do - Homeschooling links: * khanacademy.org * http://www.moorefoundation.com/index.php * http://simplycharlottemason.com/ - Reducing gamey taste in grass-fed beef * Soaking in salt water to draw out the blood * Soaking in milk or buttermilk * All About Braising: The Art of Uncomplicated Cooking * Retained heat cooking: http://pocketsofthefuture.com/blog/?p=903 * Stressful slaughter methods could increase gamey taste - Making gifts - Rotational grazing on a small scale, and shavings for cow bedding - A counter-response in favor of moderation with technology - Update on our calf: unsuccessful dehorning - Tip of the week: short handsaw makes an excellent machette - Tip of the week #2: Making yogurt. Adding small amount of powdered milk to thicken yogurt. - Tip of the week #3: Nutritious raw yogurt smoothies. Homesteading, Podcasts Stumbling Homestead no no http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2011/01/episode-17-the-power-of-community/ http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2011/01/episode-17-the-power-of-community/#comments Sat, 01 Jan 2011 18:00:59 +0000 admin http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/?p=1063 Continue reading →]]> http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2011/01/episode-17-the-power-of-community/feed/ 3 0:53:13 Modern society has isolated us from our neighbors and enticed us to form virtual communities. Having strong ties with our neighbors is one of the most important steps we can take towards self-sufficiency. I discuss some suggestions for helping fos[...] * Modern society has isolated us from our neighbors and enticed us to form virtual communities. * Having strong ties with our neighbors is one of the most important steps we can take towards self-sufficiency. * I discuss some suggestions for helping foster relationships with neighbors, and others in our immediate community. References: * Better Off: Flipping the Switch on Technology, by Eric Brende * Laura Ingalls Wilder: A Family Collection, by Laura Ingalls Wilder * http://theselfsufficientgardener.com/ * The Food Security Knowledge Pack, by Jason Akers Homesteading, Podcasts Stumbling Homestead no no http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2010/12/episode-16-technology-and-atrophy-of-the-mind-and-body/ http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2010/12/episode-16-technology-and-atrophy-of-the-mind-and-body/#comments Thu, 23 Dec 2010 23:16:48 +0000 admin http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/?p=425 Continue reading →]]> http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2010/12/episode-16-technology-and-atrophy-of-the-mind-and-body/feed/ 13 1:10:45 Tip of the week: Christmas giving and Santa Claus Technology and labor saving devices. What is the healthy balance? Society seems on the side of never-ending increased efficiency and reduction of labor. Amish don’t allow electricity or engin[...] Tip of the week: Christmas giving and Santa Claus * Technology and labor saving devices. What is the healthy balance? * Society seems on the side of never-ending increased efficiency and reduction of labor. * Amish don't allow electricity or engines, and can serve as a good model for evaluating the introduction of new technology into our lives. Resources: Better Off: Flipping the Switch on Technology, by Eric Brende Vertical Farming: It is Elegant But Is It Feasible? by Sharon Astyk Simple Living: Be Skeptical of the Benefits of Technology, by Rick Saenz The Plowboy Interviews, by John Shuttleworth Greenwashing, Homesteading, Podcasts Stumbling Homestead no no http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2010/12/episode-15-homesteading-when-kids-dont-co-operate/ http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2010/12/episode-15-homesteading-when-kids-dont-co-operate/#comments Sat, 18 Dec 2010 18:00:54 +0000 admin http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/?p=751 Continue reading →]]> http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2010/12/episode-15-homesteading-when-kids-dont-co-operate/feed/ 3 0:55:13 Tip of the week: freezing eggs. A discussion of several ideas for dealing with young children who are less than helpful with household chores. Also a discussion of the importance of having children enjoy the tasks associated with homesteading, and [...] Tip of the week: freezing eggs. A discussion of several ideas for dealing with young children who are less than helpful with household chores. Also a discussion of the importance of having children enjoy the tasks associated with homesteading, and how we might prevent the exodus of our children from the homestead when they are older. References: * Some Kind of Help is the Kind of Help...:Getting Things Done With Kids Who Can't Help, by Sharon Astyk * Family Friendly Farming: A Multi-Generational Home-Based Business Testament, by Joel Salatin Children, Homesteading, Podcasts Stumbling Homestead no no http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2010/12/episode-14-how-grass-farming-benefits-the-environment/ http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2010/12/episode-14-how-grass-farming-benefits-the-environment/#comments Sat, 11 Dec 2010 19:55:56 +0000 admin http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/?p=998 Continue reading →]]> http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2010/12/episode-14-how-grass-farming-benefits-the-environment/feed/ 9 0:57:03 Greenwashing and corporate co-opting of the green movement. Global Climate Disruption, reductionist thinking, and the wrongheaded solutions proposed by the mainstream. The popular green revolution seems largely concerned with buying or inventing[...] * Greenwashing and corporate co-opting of the green movement. * Global Climate Disruption, reductionist thinking, and the wrongheaded solutions proposed by the mainstream. * The popular green revolution seems largely concerned with buying or inventing our way out of this mess. * Ultimately, we've got to realize that this is a finite planet, and we can't keep growing indefinitely. What to do about it? What if we could address top soil erosion, water and air pollution, and sequester a boatload of carbon, just for insurance? And not have to rely on gimmicky manipulative carbon taxing schemes, or insane spraying of toxic material into our skys? And also produce nutritious food as well? Properly managed herbivore grazing on pasture mimics the natural pre-industrial, pre-agricultural state of the land, and can sequester more carbon than all other proposed solutions, without negative side effects. References: * EatWild.com * Eliot Coleman debunking the meat/climate change myth * Joel Salatin on carbon sequestration * www.cheeseslave.com * Tender Grass Fed Meat cookbook by Stanley Fishman * Stumbling Homestead Theme Music, and other songs Food, Greenwashing, Homesteading, Podcasts Stumbling Homestead no no http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2010/12/episode-13-marjory-wildcraft-of-backyard-food-production/ http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2010/12/episode-13-marjory-wildcraft-of-backyard-food-production/#comments Sat, 04 Dec 2010 18:00:18 +0000 admin http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/?p=978 Continue reading →]]> http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2010/12/episode-13-marjory-wildcraft-of-backyard-food-production/feed/ 4 1:15:40 Marjory Wildcraft of Backyard Food Production joins us this week to discuss her story, and share some of her extensive knowledge on such topics as: Gardening: How much room do I need to feed my family? How to best involve toddlers and let them g[...] Marjory Wildcraft, of backyardfoodproduction.com joins us this week to discuss her story, and share some of her extensive knowledge on such topics as: Gardening: * How much room do I need to feed my family? * How to best involve toddlers and let them grow into various duties. * Suggested tasks for the little ones. Livestock: * Introducing kids to respectful death, and compassionate husbandry. * How much responsibility to give kids for feeding, etc.. When do I involve the kids in the processing, if at all? Building a closed loop system gradually over time. Order of projects: what might make sense to start with, what challenges you are currently facing. For folks who can't move yet, but want to start food production and homesteading now, what would be good things to start with? References: * http://www.backyardfoodproduction.com/ * How to Grow More Vegetables and Fruits (and Fruits, Nuts, Berries, Grains, and Other Crops) Than You Ever Thought Possible on Less Land Than You Can Imagine by John Jeavons * Future Farmers of America (https://www.ffa.org/Pages/default.aspx) Children, Food, Gardening, Homesteading, Podcasts Stumbling Homestead no no http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2010/11/episode-12-ten-homesteading-tools-and-items/ http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2010/11/episode-12-ten-homesteading-tools-and-items/#comments Sat, 27 Nov 2010 18:00:56 +0000 admin http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/?p=944 Continue reading →]]> http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2010/11/episode-12-ten-homesteading-tools-and-items/feed/ 11 1:00:04 1) Cordless impact driver and reciprocating saw 2) Head lamp 3) Leatherman 4) Muck boots 5) Palettes 6) Fence wire and plumber’s tape 7) Used reliable 4-wheel drive pickup truck 8) Dehydrator 9) Ball jars 10) Computer and high speed internet [...] 1) Cordless impact driver and reciprocating saw 2) Head lamp 3) Leatherman 4) Muck boots 5) Palettes 6) Fence wire and plumber's tape 7) Used reliable 4-wheel drive pickup truck 8) Dehydrator 9) Ball jars 10) Computer and high speed internet References: * Dehydration information: dehydrate2store.com * Retained heat cooking: http://pocketsofthefuture.com/blog/?p=903 * Educational web site for kids: http://www.starfall.com/ Homesteading, Podcasts Stumbling Homestead no no http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2010/11/episode-11-the-argument-for-homeschooling/ http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2010/11/episode-11-the-argument-for-homeschooling/#comments Sat, 20 Nov 2010 18:00:19 +0000 admin http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/?p=219 Continue reading →]]> http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2010/11/episode-11-the-argument-for-homeschooling/feed/ 17 1:03:51 Passive desk based learning has been demonstrated to be a horrible way to learn. John Taylor Gatto (http://www.johntaylorgatto.com/): Taught in NY public schools for 30 years Named NY city teacher of the year 3 different years, and state teacher o[...] Our homesteading podcast exploring the pros and cons of homeschooling. Includes excerpts of audio from John Taylor Gatto. Passive desk based learning has been demonstrated to be a horrible way to learn. John Taylor Gatto (http://www.johntaylorgatto.com/): * Taught in NY public schools for 30 years * Named NY city teacher of the year 3 different years, and state teacher of the year * Believes that the current institutional school system does little to teach, and actually destroys individual thought and the natural desire to learn * Gatto describes the disadvantage of extending childhood too far, and advocates the earlier practice of assigning responsibility early to children. Unfortunately, we jump to quickly into a fear response, and remove all opportunities for our kids to have responsibility Homeschooled kids repeatedly beat others in standardized tests. Teaching to the test, not teaching our kids. Is socialization in school system really a benefit? (school imposes artificial boundaries approximating caste systems: age, popularity, language, advanced placement versus basic...) Not enough time in the day to homeschool? Think again. 1.5 to 2 hours to cover equivalent of a typical day's classwork. So much of school time is spent on non-school activities. Teaching children to line up, etc. Unschooling for teens and other children converting from institutional school to homeschooling. See this blog: Mark Zeiger (http://akzeigers.com/blog/): Children, Homesteading, Podcasts Stumbling Homestead no no http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2010/11/episode-10-ten-easy-nutrient-dense-foods-in-our-homestead/ http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2010/11/episode-10-ten-easy-nutrient-dense-foods-in-our-homestead/#comments Sat, 13 Nov 2010 10:00:12 +0000 admin http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/?p=831 Continue reading →]]> http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2010/11/episode-10-ten-easy-nutrient-dense-foods-in-our-homestead/feed/ 4 0:58:20 Here are 10 of our homestead’s favorite nutrient dense foods: 1) Sauerkraut and pickles 2) Eggs 3) Raw milk 4) Cultured dairy: soft cheese, sour cream, butter, yogurt, kefir 5) Bone broth 6) Soaked and dried nuts 7) Grass-fed beef (organ meat[...] Here are 10 of our homestead's favorite nutrient dense foods. 1) Sauerkraut and pickles 2) Eggs 3) Raw milk 4) Cultured dairy: soft cheese, sour cream, butter, yogurt, kefir 5) Bone broth 6) Soaked and dried nuts 7) Grass-fed beef (organ meats, cuts of beef, ground meat) 8) Lard and tallow 9) Fruits 10) Greens, carrots, squash, zucchini and other vegetables Related links: * Nourishing Traditions by Sally Fallon * Too Much Medicine and Not Enough Health by Layna Berman and Jeff Fawcett Food, Podcasts Stumbling Homestead no no http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2010/11/episode-9-keeping-a-family-cow/ http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2010/11/episode-9-keeping-a-family-cow/#comments Sat, 06 Nov 2010 10:00:47 +0000 admin http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/?p=692 Continue reading →]]> http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2010/11/episode-9-keeping-a-family-cow/feed/ 3 1:00:46 Note: non-iTunes users will need to resubscribe to my new podcast feed http://feeds.feedburner.com/stumblinghomestead/mgHQ First, I respond to a few listener comments and questions: Is cholesterol bad for us? Can you consolidate all your referenc[...] First, I respond to a few listener comments and questions: * Is cholesterol bad for us? * Can you consolidate all your references into a single list? * Should only those living on farms drink raw milk? Is a cow in your future? Things to consider: * Lifestyle shift: life becomes more centered around the home. * Breed: why a Jersey is an ideal family cow * How many cows? * Machine or hand milking? * Equipment and cost: * Fencing * Hay and Straw * Stanchion * Buckets, hay feeder, shovel and wheelbarrow, water source and drinking containers * Other things needed: truck and shelter, tractor... * Your cow economy References: * Don Miller, M.D., Keeping Us Sick, Stupid, and Broke * Health Benefits of a Low-Carbohydrate, High-Saturated-Fat Diet * The Weston A. Price Foundation (westonaprice.org) * Nourishing Traditions by Sally Fallon * Nutrition and Physical Degeneration, by Weston A. Price * Keeping a Family Cow, by Joann S. Grohman * Keeping a Family Cow online forum Cows, Homesteading, Podcasts Stumbling Homestead no no http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2010/10/episode-8-do-i-really-want-to-live-in-the-country/ http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2010/10/episode-8-do-i-really-want-to-live-in-the-country/#comments Sat, 30 Oct 2010 10:00:45 +0000 admin http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/?p=708 Continue reading →]]> http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2010/10/episode-8-do-i-really-want-to-live-in-the-country/feed/ 5 0:57:25 Doing full-out living off the land homesteading is very hard, and may not be sustainable if you jump into it too quickly. As always, smaller steps seems the best approach. Here’s our experience: Working from a home office in the country One [...] Doing full-out living off the land homesteading is very hard, and may not be sustainable if you jump into it too quickly. As always, smaller steps seems the best approach. Here's our experience: * Working from a home office in the country * One full-time spouse, one part-time * Get a decent high-speed connection if possible * Homesteading activities are time consuming, especially preparing most or all of your food from scratch. This can be eased into while living in urban areas, to get you used to the time demands. * Renting as an option to try out the lifestyle and check out the prospective area * Doing it for yourselves and for your kids. Your kids need to help out with this adventure. Everyone contributing to the family economy. * Priority shift: there will be less time to run around to social obligations, including lessons and sports games for the kids. * Don’t try and do everything at once. * First thing: figure out where you’re going to get local good food. Get a chest freezer. * Start a garden. When you feel you can handle it, take the next step and get chickens. Involve your kids in each of these activities; otherwise you’re not going to be able to do them. * Getting a milk cow is the biggest farm obligation we’ve taken on thus far. * We’ve been brainwashed into thinking that we always have to go elsewhere for our needs. Giving your kids a life more rooted in the house is a good thing. * Eating better and fresh air with exercise will increase your coping skills. Think of this as health insurance. * It’s the hardest thing we’ve ever done, but it is also the best thing we’ve done. * Good neighbors are a godsend. * Biggest advice is to make sure you’re okay with the whole concept and lifestyle of farming and country life. Most of us need to actually do this in order to really answer the question. We decided to get our answer sooner rather than later. References: * Check out my Beef Heart Chili blog, on saveourskills.com! http://www.saveourskills.com/beef-heart-chili * See You In a Hundred Years, by Logan Ward * Family Friendly Farming: A Multi-Generational Home-Based Business Testament, by Joel Salatin Homesteading, Podcasts Stumbling Homestead no no http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2010/10/episode-7-farm-fresh-milk/ http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2010/10/episode-7-farm-fresh-milk/#comments Sat, 23 Oct 2010 10:00:34 +0000 admin http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/?p=553 Continue reading →]]> http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2010/10/episode-7-farm-fresh-milk/feed/ 13 1:03:11 The Untold Story of Milk by Ron Schmid Overwhelming evidence for the health benefits of raw milk The disturbing reluctance of medical professionals to consider the well-established benefits of raw milk or to challenge anti-raw milk dogma The self [...] The Untold Story of Milk by Ron Schmid * Overwhelming evidence for the health benefits of raw milk * The disturbing reluctance of medical professionals to consider the well-established benefits of raw milk or to challenge anti-raw milk dogma * The self interest of the dairy industry, which has succeeded in taking from most people their freedom to choose raw milk * All statements are supported by references How did pasteurization become the norm for the last 100 years? * Cities, distillery cows, and the advent of pasteurized milk. * Grass-fed versus grain- fed cows * The main culprit: E. coli O157:H7 evolved in grain-fed cattle. Health of raw vs. pasteurized * http://www.fda.gov/Food/ResourcesForYou/Consumers/ucm079516.htm * http://www.raw-milk-facts.com/ * Research of Dr. Francis Pottenger: demonstrating superior nutritional value of unheated milk Free choice and liberty * Milk debate comes down to "protection" of the public versus free choice of a grown up. * An infringement of our basic constitutional rights? * Raw milk raids... unnecessary force? Opposing side: * Bill Marler and the superbug argument. * http://www.marlerblog.com/ Are raw milk figures being distorted by public bias and faulty science? * http://www.realmilk.com/washington-lessons-learned.html * http://www.marlerblog.com/legal-cases/as-a-mars-pa-man-is-on-life-support-sally-fallon-spins-her-tales-update Keeping A Family Cow by Joann S. Grohman Cows, Homesteading, Podcasts Stumbling Homestead no no http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2010/10/our-milking-machine-routine-equipment-used/ http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2010/10/our-milking-machine-routine-equipment-used/#comments Sat, 23 Oct 2010 00:37:50 +0000 admin http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/?p=343 Continue reading →]]> http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2010/10/our-milking-machine-routine-equipment-used/feed/ 1 http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2010/10/episode-6-backyard-chickens/ http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2010/10/episode-6-backyard-chickens/#comments Sat, 16 Oct 2010 03:01:27 +0000 admin http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/?p=593 Continue reading →]]> http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2010/10/episode-6-backyard-chickens/feed/ 5 1:04:35 I don’t claim to be an expert on raising chickens, but here’s the knowledge gained on the subject thus far from experience and research: Caveat: everyone’s approach is going to be different. Purist approach versus doing what[...] I don't claim to be an expert on raising chickens, but here's the knowledge gained on the subject thus far from experience and research: Caveat: everyone's approach is going to be different. Purist approach versus doing what's within your reach. It doesn't need to be perfect to be a worthwhile pursuit. Eggs How many eggs, how long to produce: ours started laying at 18-20 weeks and now are giving about 1 egg per day (expect less in the winter). Source of chicks Breeding vs. ordering Feed * Growing grain versus purchasing it... * Supplementing feed with other sources: greens, house compost, stable cleanings * Feed: around $9 for 50 lbs of laying pellets. Will contain soy and corn. Make sure it's not GMO. * Feeding chickens from mostly pasture and farm produced input: http://waldeneffect.org/blog/Chicken_forest_pasture_experiment:_Year_1/ Watering * Chicken waterer: drip vs. tray (gravity fed) * Keep off the ground for sanitation Predators Can't kill off everything, nor would you want to. If you have problems, fencing or structural is the best solution. Accommodations * Coop with fixed yard * Eggmobile with netting (moveable). Follow the cows, seems better for large operations * Chicken tractor * Free range (in the traditional sense, the non-commercial term) * Neighbors approach with our barn * Greenhouse http://matronofhusbandry.wordpress.com/2009/10/21/free-range-sustainable-right/ Egg allergies: try eating the yolks raw, shooter style or in drinks, smoothies, etc. If you purchase eggs... * Free range is most often a misused term. Free range means an open door to a packed confinement coop. * Chickens are not vegetarian. A vegetarian diet will produce less healthy eggs. * Once again, you really need to see the farm that's producing your eggs. Labels are convenient for us, but they are also convenient for hiding bad farming practices from you... So, when possible, buy directly from the farmer. Go see the chickens in person. Chickens, Podcasts Stumbling Homestead no no http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2010/10/episode-5-homesteading-wherever-you-are/ http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2010/10/episode-5-homesteading-wherever-you-are/#comments Sun, 10 Oct 2010 07:29:34 +0000 admin http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/?p=542 Continue reading →]]> http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2010/10/episode-5-homesteading-wherever-you-are/feed/ 3 1:03:11 Homesteading is not so much about moving out to the country to live off of the land–this focuses too much of the effort on the move. While I’m not saying don’t consider the move, if it’s right for you and your family, what[...] Homesteading is not so much about moving out to the country to live off of the land--this focuses too much of the effort on the move. While I'm not saying don't consider the move, if it's right for you and your family, what's more important is developing the skills now. Think of the process of "trying on the lifestyle" associated with homesteading. Suburban and rural: the process is the same, whether you're preparing for a move to the country, or just living better where you are now. Some examples that should be a part of the process: Composting: just do it. Find out where to locate it so you sustain the practice Water: get a gravity fed filter system Power outages: earthquakes, storms, etc. Have a blackout kit. Foraging: blackberries, miner's lettuce, etc. Food storage: dehydrating apples when they're in season, biltong and jerky Learning to cook from scratch and make healthy food: easy sauerkraut, make dairy from farm fresh milk. Retained heat cooking: http://pocketsofthefuture.com/blog/?p=903 Chickens and your neighbors: good neighbors and the law. The importance of developing good neighbor relationships. Homesteading, Podcasts Stumbling Homestead no no http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2010/10/for-parents-stay-in-bed-technique-for-kids/ http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2010/10/for-parents-stay-in-bed-technique-for-kids/#comments Sun, 03 Oct 2010 08:03:00 +0000 admin http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/?p=479 Continue reading →]]> http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2010/10/for-parents-stay-in-bed-technique-for-kids/feed/ 7 http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2010/10/episode-4-specialization-and-consumerism/ http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2010/10/episode-4-specialization-and-consumerism/#comments Sat, 02 Oct 2010 10:00:06 +0000 admin http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/?p=516 Continue reading →]]> http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2010/10/episode-4-specialization-and-consumerism/feed/ 2 0:49:51 Specialization has allowed us to achieve many things, but at what cost? We never consider that doing something ourselves, however poorly, might be preferable to turning that task over to someone who can do it better… Why do so many of us [...] Specialization has allowed us to achieve many things, but at what cost? We never consider that doing something ourselves, however poorly, might be preferable to turning that task over to someone who can do it better... Why do so many of us have hobbies? For all the emphasis we put on a rounded childhood and well-rounded education, or society doesn't reward the generalist--it rewards the specialist, who, is also the consumer. Roughly 90 percent of the American populace prior to 1830, was self-sufficient. Among all the things that we've lost, worst is that we've lost our ability to produce our food. Specialization, by its very nature, turns us into consumers for everything that cannot be produced by our specialized skill. Someone new to homesteading would naturally ask: is it worth it? From the specialist point of view, you might think, "did we save money doing all this hard work?" Probably not. After all, we've been indoctrinated with the notion that time is money. But there are other benefits: * At some point, the cost of energy and food is going to go up. Producing more of it directly will make more monetary sense as this happens. * Health benefits * Connectedness with earth * Better for the planet * Preparedness * Child-rearing At the risk of being an iconoclast, I think that our society needs to rethink it's heroes: Einstein versus a typical pioneer homesteader, like Pa Ingalls. I'm not advocating a society without specialists--I just think that the balance has been skewed in the opposite direction. Homesteading, Podcasts Stumbling Homestead no no http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2010/09/episode-3-overcoming-analysis-paralysis/ http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2010/09/episode-3-overcoming-analysis-paralysis/#comments Sat, 25 Sep 2010 10:00:52 +0000 admin http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/?p=496 Continue reading →]]> http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2010/09/episode-3-overcoming-analysis-paralysis/feed/ 4 1:06:25 Measure twice, cut once…  with homesteading, this adage, taken too far, can leave you drowning in a sea of contradictory advice. Many times I measure 3 or four times and still seem to cut twice or more. But that’s why I like to think of[...] Measure twice, cut once... with homesteading, this adage, taken too far, can leave you drowning in a sea of contradictory advice. Many times I measure 3 or four times and still seem to cut twice or more. But that's why I like to think of this as a Stumbling Homestead. I like to make my mistakes as quickly as possible, and move on. Some examples of our many missteps: * Garden: what plants, collapsing raised beds, compost turning versus not, what size of bin, purchased or homemade bin? * Chickens: what number to get, tractor size, dealing with weather and the rainproof feeder * Cows: amount of hay to get, number of cows to get, how to transport a calf, hand or machine milking, how to milk, what is a stanchion? * Food preparation: what to eat, dairying, sauerkraut, new foods, getting kids to eat * Food storage: sand or straw, biltong versus jerky, dehydrating berries versus apples, etc. * Tools: start doing and buy as you go, cordless impact driver, borrow with consideration * Finance: start a plan and allocate money before you spend, ontrol where it goes rather than trying to catch up * Offer to help when you want to learn a new skill * Health: taken care of automatically by increased physical activity and better diet Related links: * The Weston A. Price Foundation (westonaprice.org) * Nourishing Traditions by Sally Fallon * Nutrition and Physical Degeneration, by Weston A. Price * The Humanure Handbook, by Joseph Jenkins * Keeping a Family Cow, by Joann S. Grohman * Family Cow Forum (http://familycow.proboards.com) Homesteading, Podcasts Stumbling Homestead no no http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2010/09/reading-to-children-the-little-house-series-and-homesteading/ http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2010/09/reading-to-children-the-little-house-series-and-homesteading/#comments Tue, 21 Sep 2010 21:45:19 +0000 admin http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/?p=484 Continue reading →]]> http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2010/09/reading-to-children-the-little-house-series-and-homesteading/feed/ 2 http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2010/09/homesteading-as-an-investment-strategy-podcast/ http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2010/09/homesteading-as-an-investment-strategy-podcast/#comments Mon, 20 Sep 2010 04:14:26 +0000 admin http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/?p=464 Continue reading →]]> http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2010/09/homesteading-as-an-investment-strategy-podcast/feed/ 1 0:50:12 Ten things we’ve done since starting our homestead here a year ago. These are some portfolio investments that guarantee results: Composting: the average small family generates enough food scraps in a year to produce pure garden gold. Chickens: t[...] Ten things we’ve done since starting our homestead here a year ago. These are some portfolio investments that guarantee results: 1. Composting: the average small family generates enough food scraps in a year to produce pure garden gold. 2. Chickens: there are so many sites and books out there. Just do it. 3. Family cow: here’s an investment recommendation you won’t hear often. Buy a milk cow or goat. Get Keeping a Family Cow, by Joanne S. Grohman 4. Garden: gaining experience and knowledge in gardening is a worthwhile investment. It also does the body good. 5. Local farmers and CSAs: get to know and support your local farmers. http://www.localharvest.org/ 6. Storing surplus food: the one thing everyone needs to do every single day is eat. So storing food may be the most secure investment of all. 7. Preparing for emergencies: part of being a responsible individual is preparing for likely emergencies. 8. Paying down debt: the more that we’re in debt, the more that the system dictates our options. 9. Living a healthier lifestyle: all of the points listed above improve our health. 10. Teaching our children: this is a big one for us. Finance, Podcasts Stumbling Homestead no no http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2010/09/dehydrating-apples/ http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2010/09/dehydrating-apples/#comments Mon, 13 Sep 2010 05:37:48 +0000 admin http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/?p=442 Continue reading →]]> http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2010/09/dehydrating-apples/feed/ 0 http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2010/09/backyard-chickens-hanging-a-waterer-and-rainproofing-a-feeder/ http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2010/09/backyard-chickens-hanging-a-waterer-and-rainproofing-a-feeder/#comments Sat, 11 Sep 2010 01:48:12 +0000 admin http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/?p=427 Continue reading →]]> http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2010/09/backyard-chickens-hanging-a-waterer-and-rainproofing-a-feeder/feed/ 3 http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2010/09/building-and-rebuilding-a-milking-stanchion/ http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2010/09/building-and-rebuilding-a-milking-stanchion/#comments Fri, 03 Sep 2010 03:21:18 +0000 admin http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/?p=341 Continue reading →]]> http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2010/09/building-and-rebuilding-a-milking-stanchion/feed/ 3 http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2010/09/silver-and-gold-how-to-invest-in-them/ http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2010/09/silver-and-gold-how-to-invest-in-them/#comments Fri, 03 Sep 2010 01:27:45 +0000 admin http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/?p=339 Continue reading →]]> http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2010/09/silver-and-gold-how-to-invest-in-them/feed/ 2 http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2010/09/episode-1-bad-eggs-and-control-of-your-food-supply/ http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2010/09/episode-1-bad-eggs-and-control-of-your-food-supply/#comments Thu, 02 Sep 2010 14:16:06 +0000 admin http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/?p=332 Continue reading →]]> http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2010/09/episode-1-bad-eggs-and-control-of-your-food-supply/feed/ 0 0:35:57 As Rahm Emanuel once said, never let a good crisis go to waste. The recent outbreak of salmonella eggs has given new steam to the Food Safety Bill. Folks, this is a bad thing. Every time the government ratchets up a little tighter on food regulatio[...] As Rahm Emanuel once said, never let a good crisis go to waste. The recent outbreak of salmonella eggs has given new steam to the Food Safety Bill. Folks, this is a bad thing. Every time the government ratchets up a little tighter on food regulation, it does nothing to prevent the next outbreak, but instead serves to crush smaller competition and limit our ability to choose alternative, healthy food. Today's show discusses: * Taking personal responsibility for daily needs like food * Decentralization as a solution to many of today's crises * Homesteading is what socialism tries to be * The egg salmonella scare and food safety. Salvation by legislation? * Confined animal feedlot operations (CAFOs) * How to raise backyard chickens with a chicken tractor (backyardchickens.com, thecitychicken.com) * Community supported agriculture (CSAs) and the support of local farmers (localharvest.org) * Farm fresh milk (The Untold Story of Milk by Ron Schmid) Podcasts Darcy Menard no no http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2010/09/the-stumbling-homestead-podcast-an-introduction/ http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2010/09/the-stumbling-homestead-podcast-an-introduction/#comments Thu, 02 Sep 2010 21:15:52 +0000 admin http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/?p=318 Continue reading →]]> http://stumblinghomestead.com/blog/2010/09/the-stumbling-homestead-podcast-an-introduction/feed/ 0 0:14:28 This is a short introduction podcast. It lays out the general approach of this podcast, and what to expect. It explains our move from the city to the country, why we chose to do this, and what we hope to achieve. It also touches on the pros and con[...] This is a short introduction podcast. It lays out the general approach of this podcast, and what to expect. It explains our move from the city to the country, why we chose to do this, and what we hope to achieve. It also touches on the pros and cons of a specialized society, stepping outside the mainstream industrial food system, and people as the most valuable resource. Homesteading, Podcasts Stumbling Homestead no no