an impossible New Years Resoution. Some fad diet or gym program that quickly grows tiresome and falls by the wayside. This year I resolve to do
something meaningful. Something that will not only meet a goal for myself, but benefit my family as well. I am choosing this year to make a list
of the things I have always wanted to try, but never made the time for. In my trial and error method of achieving a more self sufficient home, I am
hoping a list (especially one put out for the world to read!) will hold me more accountable, so here goes:
Resolution One:Â To cook more for my family.
I do “cook” everyday, but when I am rushed that might mean boiled pasta and canned sauce. I can do better, and with some planning (and at the least
some homemade sauce!) I plan to lean a little harder on fruits and vegetables and less on staples like store bought pasta. Goal #1: make homemade bread
more than a special occasion!
Resolution Two:Â To fill my pantry with home canned foods.
For a few years now I have canned a few select items that I use the most; green beans, tomatoes, peaches,  pickles, jelly, preserves, and
apple butter. This year I hope to expand my resume to include more vegetables, whole fruits, relishes, condiments, beans, and even meats like chili and
chicken soup (I have to admit that I am a little scared!). I hope this increase in both volume and variety rewards me with a wall of full mason jars by
this fall.
Resolution Three:Â To expand my flock.
I have so enjoyed raising my six little hens these past few months, and I want to keep things going with the addition of heritage turkeys. I don’t
have any experience with them personally, so it will take some research, but I look forward to the challenge!
My
son, Brady with one of our Barred Rock Hens
Resolution Four:Â To have a bigger, more practical garden.
My name is Kristina, and I’m a seed addict. I will attempt to grow anything, especially if it is unusual, or even just pretty. This makes for
a lovely garden, and an interesting centerpiece, but when your family only tolerates your love for eggplant do you really need three different kinds?Â
In that light, I am committing to grow the things we get the most out of, tomatoes and bell peppers especially. Which means I will have to plan,
and not just grab packets as they catch my interest. I will try to restrain myself!
Resolution Five:Â To grow some new herbs for medicinal use.
As friends share recipes for homemade bug-bite ointments and bath salts, I am always a little sad that my ingredients come from the store and not my own
garden. This year will be different! I am planning on hibiscus for tea, calendula for salve, and a host of others for spices as well as
soaps.
Wish me luck as I work hard this year to keep things closer to home!Â
