Welcome to Pleasant View Cottage! I'm so excited to share our journey with you as we explore cooking, gardening, and homesteading. Here, you will find recipes, tips, and advice on all things cooking, gardening, and homesteading related. We'll be trying new recipes, growing our garden, and learning about sustainable living. Join us as we embark on this exciting adventure!
Our Homesteading Journey Begins
Welcome to Pleasant View Cottage! I am absolutely thrilled to begin sharing our homesteading journey with you as me and my family learn! This is a dream come true for me and my family, as we have always longed for a simpler and more self-sustaining way of life.
For as long as I can remember, I have been drawn to the idea of living off the land, growing our own food, and embracing a more sustainable lifestyle. So, when we finally made the decision to embark on this homesteading adventure, it was a moment of pure excitement and anticipation. It is also very nerve-racking trying to embark on this new adventure, but I know we will have fun learning.
We are starting from scratch here at Pleasant View Cottage, with only an acre of land just outside of a small town and a lot of enthusiasm. Our journey will be filled with challenges, learning experiences, and hopefully plenty of triumphs. From getting our chicken coop to cultivating our first garden (planned for next spring since fall is here now), we will be sharing every step of the way with you.
Join us as we navigate the joys and challenges of homesteading, and discover the rewards of living a more connected and fulfilling life. Our homesteading journey is just beginning, and we can't wait to have you along for the ride.
Sharing Homemade Recipes and Comfort Food
Are you ready to indulge in delicious homemade recipes and comforting meals? Look no further! In this blog, we will share a wide variety of recipes that will tantalize your taste buds and warm your soul. From hearty stews and casseroles to mouthwatering desserts and baked goods, we've got you covered.
Cooking at home allows us to be creative in the kitchen, experiment with flavors, and truly enjoy the process of preparing meals for our loved ones. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting out, our recipes will cater to all skill levels and dietary preferences. These recipes will be shared in both blog posts as well as in the recipes tab.
We will be sharing lots of family favorites, traditional dishes with a twist, and of course desserts! Get ready to discover new flavors, learn useful cooking techniques, and create memories around the dinner table.
There's something incredibly satisfying about sharing a homemade meal with friends and family. The aroma filling the house, the laughter and conversation flowing, and the joy of savoring a meal made with love - it all adds up to an unforgettable dining experience.
So, put on your apron, grab your cooking utensils, and join us as we explore the world of homemade recipes and comfort food. Get ready to unleash your inner chef and embark on a culinary adventure that will leave you hungry for more.
Gardening Tips for a Thriving Homestead
Are you ready to get your hands dirty and cultivate a thriving garden on your homestead? Look no further! In this blog we will share valuable gardening tips to help you create a lush and abundant garden that will not only feed your family but also bring you joy and satisfaction.
First and foremost, it's important to plan your garden space wisely. Consider the layout, sunlight exposure, and proximity to water sources. Take into account the specific needs of the plants you want to grow, such as their preferred soil type, watering requirements, and spacing.
Next, prioritize soil health. The foundation of a successful garden lies in nutrient-rich soil. Incorporate organic matter like compost or aged manure to improve soil structure and fertility.
Watering is crucial, but it's essential to strike a balance. Overwatering can lead to root rot, while underwatering can stunt growth. Find the sweet spot by checking the moisture level of your soil regularly. Mulching around your plants can help retain moisture and reduce weed growth.
Don't forget about pest control! Implement natural methods like companion planting, using organic pesticides, and encouraging beneficial insects to keep pests at bay. Regularly inspect your plants for signs of damage and take prompt action to prevent further infestation.
Lastly, remember that gardening is a continuous learning process. Embrace experimentation, keep a gardening journal to track your progress, and be open to adjusting your approach as you gain experience.
With these gardening tips, your homestead will be blooming with vibrant, healthy plants in no time. Happy gardening!
Sustainable Living: Advice on Homesteading
Living a sustainable lifestyle on your homestead is not only good for the environment, but it can also provide you with a sense of fulfillment and self-sufficiency. In this section, we will explore some valuable advice on how to embrace sustainable living on your homestead.
One of the first steps towards sustainable living is reducing waste. My family will start by practicing composting, which allows you to turn kitchen scraps and yard waste into nutrient-rich soil for your garden. Additionally, we will be using reusable items instead of disposable ones, such as cloth napkins and reusable water bottles, to minimize our ecological footprint.
Another important aspect of sustainable living is conserving energy. Make sure your homestead is well-insulated and consider using energy-efficient appliances. Utilize natural lighting whenever possible and you could even opt for renewable energy sources, such as solar panels or wind turbines, to power your home.
Water conservation is also key to sustainable living. Implement rainwater harvesting systems to collect and store water for your garden. Install low-flow fixtures and practice water-saving techniques, like watering your plants during the cooler parts of the day to reduce evaporation.
Finally, embrace the concept of "reduce, reuse, and recycle." Minimize your consumption by only buying what you need and opting for secondhand items whenever possible. Reuse materials in creative ways, such as repurposing old furniture or using glass jars for storage. And of course, always recycle to help reduce the amount of waste that ends up in landfills.
By following these sustainable living practices, you can make a positive impact on both your homestead and the environment. Embrace the challenge and find joy in living a more sustainable life.
Raising Chickens on the Homestead
One of the most exciting and rewarding aspects of our homesteading journey is raising chickens. Not only do they provide us with a steady supply of fresh eggs, but they also contribute to our self-sustainability and add a lively energy to our homestead.
There's something so captivating about watching these feathered creatures roam freely, pecking at the ground, and clucking away. Not to mention, their delightful personalities and endearing antics never fail to put a smile on our faces.
When it comes to raising chickens, there are a few key considerations to keep in mind. First and foremost, you'll need a sturdy and predator-proof chicken coop. It should provide adequate space for your flock to roam, roosting areas for them to sleep, and nesting boxes for laying eggs.
Next, think about the type of chickens you want to raise. Different breeds have different characteristics and purposes. Some are known for their egg-laying abilities, while others are better for meat production. Do your research and choose the breeds that align with your goals and preferences.
Feeding and caring for your chickens is also crucial. A balanced diet of chicken feed, supplemented with kitchen scraps and foraged insects, will keep them healthy and happy. Regularly check their water supply, clean their coop, and provide ample ventilation to ensure their well-being.
Lastly, be prepared for the inevitable challenges that come with raising chickens. From dealing with potential predators (especially if free-ranging) to managing diseases and parasites, it's essential to stay vigilant and take proactive measures to protect your flock.
Raising chickens on the homestead is an enriching and fulfilling experience that brings us closer to our goal of self-sustainability. Whether you're a seasoned chicken keeper or just starting out like us, the rewards far outweigh the challenges. So, grab your overalls and get ready to embark on this feathered adventure with us!
Renovating our Home to Bring us Closer Together
As we embark on our homesteading journey, we are not just focused on creating a sustainable lifestyle; we also want to cultivate a warm and inviting home that brings our family closer together. That's why we have decided to slowly renovate our home, creating a cozy and functional atmosphere that will foster a sense of togetherness and happiness.
We understand that home renovations can be a daunting task, especially when you have a limited budget. But we have decided to take it one step at a time, allowing us to focus on each room and truly make it our own. It's not about having the perfect, Pinterest-worthy home; it's about creating a space that reflects our personalities and values.
One of the first areas we tackled was the living room. We wanted a space that was comfortable and inviting, where we could relax and spend quality time with one another. We painted the walls, added light filtering curtains, added comfortable seating, and incorporated personal touches like family photos, plants, and decor.
Our bedroom was another area that needed some love. We wanted a peaceful and serene retreat where we could unwind after a long day. We painted the walls white and added a board and batten accent wall in the color evergreen fog from Sherwin Williams, invested in a high-quality mattress and bedding, and created an overall cozy space.
Renovating our home has been a labor of love, but it has been worth every minute. Each room we transform brings us closer together as a family and strengthens our bond. Whether we're eating together in the dining room, snuggling on the couch in the living room, or unwinding in our tranquil bedroom, our home has become a sanctuary that nurtures and nourishes us.
So, if you're considering renovating your home, I encourage you to take it slow and focus on creating a space that brings you joy and brings your family closer together. It's not about the size of your budget or the perfection of the finished product; it's about the love and intention you put into every renovation decision. Happy renovating!