Getting started may not be the "fluffiest" step but it's certainly the one that holds the most impact.
Growing Food - In a Garden - Yourself
Some of us will be sharing how we grow in apartments and some of us will be displaying full beds and beautiful gardens. So yes, this is for EVERYONE!
January is over but I'm type A; we can't move on without also completing January's assignments or the entire year, and universe will crumble into oblivion.
Choosing to homestead/ home-make in the traditional manner is going to be hard work! It will definitely get harder before it gets easier. There will be days when you question your reasoning and are tempted to give up and give in to the lure of leisure, luxury and convenience.
Don't get me wrong, homesteading isn't all about asceticism either. In fact there's a lot to be said for the many rewards of "householding". There's certainly beauty and charm in it.
But nothing worthwhile comes without blood sweat and tears.
We're going to be in the trenches with you.I'll give the assignments in bullet-point form for convenience.
- Take a Personal Inventory. I'd highly suggest you grab a dedicated "householding" journal/binder.-
- What is your level of commitment here?
- What does homemaking really mean to you?
This life isn't the place for huge egos and accolades. No one is going to praise your latest achievements with a pay raise. You don't get PTO, or promotions. This life is all about serving, learning, working and loving. Loving those around you through your labor. If you have a martyr complex, you may need to take some time to seriously reconsider what all of this means for you.
How do you feel about *really* being at home?
Not just being there because the stores are closed, not just being there to relax, not just being there just because, but REALLY being home to work and run an efficient machine. More importantly, finding the balance between that efficient machine and creating a safe haven and place of rest.
Walk your space
Again a dedicated "householder's" journal or binder would be especially helpful. Walk your space and visualize what you would like to see in your garden. Look at each specific area and take note of the location as it pertains to the hours of sunlight, any sort of run-off, shade, protection from wind if needed, etc. Take note of these things and visualize what you want to bring to fruition.
- Map a garden
A "to scale" map is absolutely recommended. Get out a large piece of paper and map your yard or garden area to scale. Start mapping out your beds' size and location.
Keep a journal for your garden. What you plant, the yield, etc. There will be mistakes. Don't let your fear of mistakes keep you from moving. The best way to learn, is by doing! Make sure everyone is on board, at least MOSTLY.
- Grab some seed catalogs
Figure out what your garden will grow!You could cut your seed or start order in half and still have more than you can handle.
Here is our favorite *FREE* seed catalogs -
- Baker Creek Heirloom Seeds - http://www.rareseeds.com/request-catalogus/
- Seed Savers Exchange - http://www.seedsavers.org/Catalog.html
- Bountiful Gardens - https://www.bountifulgardens.org/inforequest.asp
Now, write down all the bullet points and let's get crackin'!
Your home system will be a reflection of you, and those you love; uniquely.
-Abbey
Come along with us on this journey by following us on Facebook or through email using the form on the right.
Don't forget to check out the other posts in our Getting Started Homesteading series.
Don't forget to check out the other posts in our Getting Started Homesteading series.
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