Welcome to one of our favorite parts of family life on the homestead – holidays and traditions! Homesteading is hard work and takes a lot of time and effort but it’s so important that we leave time for celebrations. Some family times are simple days of rest or quiet moments like bath and bedtimes. Other celebrations are loud and messy and full of crafts and foods! Both kinds, and everything in between, are worthwhile.
We feel so strongly about this topic that we’ve written a whole book on it. Look for our publication, Homestead Holidays, in our shop. You don’t have to buy the book to access the free content here on the blog. Pick a holiday, craft or recipe and try it this week. Be sure to do it together and to have some fun – those are the only two rules when it comes to celebrations on the homestead.
If you’re frustrated trying to find homemade, natural green dye that actually works for your St. Patrick’s Day cookies, look no further! I have three cookie decoration methods, including buttercream frosting, that I’ve started using to incorporate that tricky green natural food coloring. I finally found a way to decorate St. Patrick’s Day cookies that’s easy and homemade!
Continue reading “3-Way Naturally Dyed St. Patrick’s Day Cookies”
Here’s our family’s twist on a traditional Irish soda bread made bright by saffron and golden dried fruit. As a magical bonus we also show you how to change up the ingredients a bit to make the color of your bread match your favorite redhead. Liven up your St. Patrick’s Day with this easy, sweet yet savory golden version of soda bread! *Gluten free option provided, FYI.
Here are 6+ tips to budget family holidays this year. No need to stress or have anxiety about the approaching holidays if you follow these simple steps. Includes access to a FREE book for planning ALL your holiday needs. Continue reading “6+Tips to Budget Family Holidays”
Combine the benefits of heart-healthy cranberries with foraged persimmons for a richly flavored holiday sauce. This homemade cranberry sauce recipe includes cinnamon, oranges, dried persimmon and a hint of vanilla. Stop eating store bought cranberry sauce this year and replace it with this healthier, tastier homemade version!
Learn how to make herbal holiday wreaths for table decorations, napkin rings and useful gifts. These DIY wreaths can be made from vines and herbs your grown in your own garden. Suitable for any holiday throughout the year using seasonal herbs, these wreaths are so simple even the kids can help make them! In fact, consider these herbal holiday wreaths for your next holiday craft party!
Here are our favorite time saving holiday kitchen tips from our own family. Since Santa doesn’t bring the gift of time, this advice is the next best thing for your holiday meals. I promise, these ideas – plan, delegate, chop, cook – will help you get organized and enjoy the season so much more!
Start new traditions with your kids and family with these winter holidays around the world. Don’t get stuck in a rut of winter celebrations! If one of your goals this year is to celebrate more throughout the year, or you’d just like to explore new cultures, this list is for you.
We all have a holiday to do list that includes items like make cookies, get postage for cards, arrange a gift exchange. However, homesteaders have another important to do list from fall to winter that includes very needful activities around the land and home. How are we supposed to get it all done?! Is there any way to organize our holiday to do list and our homestead to do list so they merge into one? I’m so glad you asked…
Learn how to use upcycled wood – like barn wood and pallet wood – to make simple farmhouse holiday porch signs. The rough nature of the wood gives each sign a rustic texture and makes them tough enough for indoor/outdoor use. Save money and make your own porch signs for every season – fall, winter, spring or everyday! Save money this Halloween, Christmas and Fourth of July with some old wood and a little paint!
Start a new family, fall tradition with a Harvest Home celebration! Make memories giving thanks for the harvest with this unique, annual feast for family and friends. The article includes a little history if you’re teaching a homeschool unit study, as well as a traditional recipe for Cattern Cakes made from wholesome, homestead ingredients. 
Continue reading “A Homestead Harvest Home”