For the most part, 2016 on the homestead was low-key. I am looking forward to a more interesting year in 2017. Last year, we had moderate success in the garden, but mockingbirds seemed to enjoy much of it. I hope we will enjoy more of the fruits of our labor this year.
Our chickens survived the year. The biggest drama was when our little hen, Buster, had a prolapsed vent. I guess she was just too productive. It was a banner year for her. She has quit laying for the season, but I am nervous that she will have problems again in the spring. I sure hope not.
My husband always likes to try new gardening techniques, and I’ll be sharing them once he shares them with me, no doubt. Last year we started using garden frames, and we plan to add more. Plus this year, as we start our seeds inside, he will be using a fish tank as part of the setup. Every year our dining room table becomes ground zero for the garden, and the fish tank is already partially assembled.
For the last few years we have talked about painting our house. This is the year that it needs to happen for real. I am looking for us to be more productive on the homestead in general. One priority for me is more home-cooked meals. We had way too few of them last year, so I am looking forward to more variety in our diet.
I want to continue embracing the homestead life and learning the skills of self-sufficiency. I don’t want to have to rely on someone else to provide for my basic needs. I fear so much of that is becoming lost with each new generation.
I am not so much about making resolutions, but I am always seeking to live a good and productive life. I want to be the best version of myself that I can be. I am always looking to learn new things. Last year, I started volunteering at a horse therapy ranch, and that has been a different experience. I hope that I can find something new for this year, too.
