Building our self-sufficient lifestyle one level at a time.
If you’re planting backyard fruit trees or small orchard, you may have heard that mason bees can help with pollination. Here are 4 simple steps that can help you attract mason bees to your fruit trees. Step 4 includes directions for making your own mason bee house. 
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Here’s an easy, DIY, no sew fabric scrap craft that’s great for kids and grown-ups. Use up some of your fabric stash to make these wreaths that work as a garland, napkin holders or ornaments for any holiday. Bonus, they make great handmade gifts for any occasion! 
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Sometimes you just don’t have time to wait for spring, or you’ve waited too long to get the spring garden started. Other times, you’re stuck at home with illness or pregnancy but still need to feed your family. Ah, quarantines! Here are six ideas for foods you can quickly produce – grow food fast on your counter and in the garden (including pots)! 
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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! 
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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.
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Direct sow means you can plant these herb seeds right into your garden so they’re close to your kitchen and easy to harvest. With direct sow herbs you don’t need to mess with indoor seed starting or transplanting! These direct sow herbs are great for beginners, small space gardeners, and DIYers alike. 
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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! 
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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!
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To compliment your farm wedding or homestead chic reception, here are some easy peasy DIY wedding flowers you can create in half and hour. These wedding flowers are simple, natural and comprised of blooms you already have growing in the garden. You can even PLANT flowers for your wedding, if you have the time! With two video tutorials and step-by-step instructions this article will help you create your own beautiful displays for your beautiful day. 
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Looking for ideas on how to host a farm wedding on the homestead? Here are some practical ideas for us practical homesteaders – with a lot of whimsy and beauty thrown in! 
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