20 Things I learned on the Homestead

As we creep up to our first year on the homestead, I wanted to go over the top 20 things I learned. From goats to chickens and firewood to canning, there was never a dull moment on the homestead. But we have learned a ton and hope to continue learning as we go.

Let’s get started!

1. Goats are not entry level animals. Seriously, wait until you have good fencing, a good vet, and patience!
2. Chickens are cool, roosters are not. I threaten George with the stock pot daily.
3. Build it right the first time. I cannot tell you the amount of times we have had to rebuild fences.
4. Goats eat WAY more than you think they do.
5. Goat math is a thing. I’m still confused how our numbers jumped from 2 to 7. Oh and we are getting 2 more AND Champ is pregnant.

6. Canning is addictive. Get more jars than you think you will ever need, then double it.
7. Find a local farm stand. Even if you have a garden.
8. Have a plan A, B, C, D and E. Maybe go ahead and plan for F, G and H too. Just to be safe.
9. Estimate how much firewood you will use, and then double it. Maybe triple if you live in a crazy weather state like Georgia

10. Don’t let the husband borrow your tools. Ever. Seriously, don’t do it.
    • Make sure your husband has their own tools. Buy them whatever they want. You may end up with all the shelves, goat barns, and other projects done without you having to nag… remind them.

11. Patience is the biggest lesson you will learn.
12. You are way more capable than you think you are. So is your husband.
13. An emergency fund is going to be your saving grace when you buy a house. But when you buy a homestead? You should probably triple the amount you think you’ll need.

14. You are going to blow through that emergency fund when your goats get sick, dog needs surgery, well pump goes out and water heater explodes all in one month.
15. Understand things are going to happen that are beyond your control. Roll with it. A good attitude will get you through it.

16. Start a blog to detail the antics and chaos of your life. In a year, you will look back and laugh.
17. Learn to say no. Especially to your husband when he says goats would be a great idea 2 months into owning your homestead.
18. Chicken poop is slippery on concrete. Be careful when you start chasing chickens through your basement.
19. You are living the life you always wanted in a way you never dreamed. You are blessed beyond measure.
20. A homestead is what you make it. It starts with HOME for a reason. Enjoy it.

In the last year, I have learned so much. These are just the top 20. I could write 100 more and still not be at the end of my list. But it has been worth every single penny, sleepless night, and fight. I would not trade my life for the world and all the money. Here’s to the next year on the homestead. May it be as entertaining and interesting as the last.

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