Writer, Gardener and more!

Farm life can ruff.

So much has happened since my last post. I started a new job and I an learning to be a dialysis nurse. I have had a heart attack and triple bypass, and a few other health mishaps we shall call them. But I am still here, kicking and finally getting the farm, though only as a supervisor because of a health mishap, fully underway.

Going in the right direction.

Our…

Creating a Culture of Change

I am not looking to change a business, society, etc. I am looking to change the way I live personally. That includes how I eat, think, buy and sell. Do I hope that others will join me? Of course, but this is really about my personal journey to live a quiet, peaceful life.

What do I want to change?

A lot of things I would love to change about myself. I want my body to be about 15 years younger. I…

What is in Your Herb Garden?

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Herbs are perhaps one of my favorite plants to grow. They are easy, useful, and beautiful. They make the perfect addition to any flower bed or vegetable garden.

I use fresh and dried herbs in many of the soaps, lotions, and salves that I make.  When any of us cook here we use very little…

Looking ahead to the upcoming school year and the fact that Morgan is going back to public school, I need breakfast ideas that can be eaten on the go.

Pancakes are a favorite request. Now how to make them ahead of time and quickly?

MUFFINS.

Possibly one of the easiest recipes ever.

1. Make your favorite pancake recipe or whip up some mix.

2. Pre-heat your oven to 350 and spray or line you muffin…

Water Bath Canning vs Pressure Canning

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There really is no debate on which you should choose. There are somethings are safe to water bath can but everything can be pressure canned. Why can’t I water bath can low acid foods? My grandma only ever water bath canned. I have heard pressure canners can explode. Tons of reasons to…

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Did you know that you can start your garden even if you are on food stamps?

Yes, any seeds or plants that are edible can be purchased with your EBT card. You can use containers and such you have to start your seeds. Compost and newsprint to start your no-till garden.

What seeds to buy to…

The Farm is a Reality

Holy Goat Chicken Momma!

Ok that was a bad Batman reference. But seriously my dream of having a farm is a reality. The good, the bad, the ugly are all very real. The struggles and the successes are all happening NOW. For those of you who have been with me through the years, what tumultuous years they have been, are you as excited as I am?  Chickens, goats, garden, herbs, eggs, compost, dirt,…

Switching to Infused Oils

I have been doing research on essential oils vs infused oils a lot lately. I have come across several websites, one in particular that has inspired me, that explain the difference. There is also the cost involved in obtaining either one. I primarily use them when I am making homemade soaps, lotions, and other similar products. I have used some in medicinal products I have made for my family.

Why…

Finding Resources in Your Own Backyard

It has been a massive search for things to use for building materials. I was considering pallets but as right now I have no way to transport them without paying someone. Remember I like free and cheap. I can’t afford to put out money and run to Home Depot, Lowe’s, or any other type of store.

So what to do to get stuff done has become the question. Well here are some ideas I have come up with,…

Introducing Artwork by Claire

My beautiful talented daughter has finally found her style for painting. I may be biased but I think it is very pretty, enchanting if you would. She will be blogging and making her paintings available for sale on the Farmstead Etsy store.

Setting her photos and Etsy category up is still in process. The goal is for it all to be up and running by the end of the week.

Light, Love, and Peace

Tammy~SS…

Common Name Standardized: rosemary

Latin name: Rosemarinus officinalis Plant Family: Lamiaceae (mint)

Overview

This is a woody, perennial plant with a 2 year life span, or so I have heard, mine typically live for several years. It is native to the Mediterranean and a member of the mint family. It is a fragrant addition to your herb garden. It looks like an evergreen with small pointed leaves,…

Rhode Island Red Chickens

Rhode Island Red chickens are a dual purpose bird that was developed in New England in the mid 1800s. They lay large light brown eggs. They are considered one of the least aggressive breeds of chickens. They are healthy producers with hens averaging 200 to 300 eggs per year. Dual purpose means they are also good meat birds. Hens average 6.5 lbs and Roosters average 8.5 lbs. They make very tasty…

Common Name

Standardized: calendula Other: marigold, pot marigold

Latin name

Calendula officinalis L. Plant Family: Asteraceae

Overview

Calendula is a well-known herb and garden plant that has been used topically, ceremonially, and as a dye. It is also used as a companion plant in many vegetable gardens. This is an edible flower used in teas, tinctures, and various other recipes. Used in home…

Red Sex Link Chickens

What makes red sex link chickens special? They are easy to sex as chicks. Pullets (baby hens) are shades of red and the cockerels (baby roosters) are shades of lighter colors. Why is this is important? Most people want hens primarily. Hens are where we get eggs. Roosters sole purpose is if you want fertilized eggs or a delicious chicken dinner.

These are considered a hybrid chicken because they…

There has been some question as to why there are two different names floating around. I am Single Sustainable Mom and my farm name is Enchanted Farmstead. It really is that simple. I use SSM for Facebook and Twitter and Pinterest. For farm business I use the farm name.

Single Sustainable Mom

I have spent the last few years establishing an online presence as SSM. I talk about family life, farming,…