There’s something special about this time of year on the homestead. The days are long, the projects seem endless, and somehow there’s always something new growing, building, or needing attention. This week was full of progress, a little fun, and plenty of reasons to be grateful.
The Goats Finally Get Their Turn
After what felt like weeks of waiting for the weather to cooperate, we finally had a stretch of dry enough weather to set up the hot-wire fencing we purchased several months ago for the goats.
They couldn’t be happier.
During the day, we’ve been turning them loose between the trees where they can eat as much as their bellies will allow. Watching them eagerly munch through the undergrowth, weeds, and brush has been both entertaining and productive. They’re doing exactly what goats do best: clearing vegetation while enjoying every minute of it.
At night, they return to their regular pen and shelter where they settle in safely until morning.
More Work in the Garden and Around the Yard
As always, the garden and yard demanded plenty of attention this week.
We’ve continued working on the garden, tackling the never-ending list of tasks that seem to come with the growing season. There is always something that needs weeding, watering, planting, or organizing, but it’s exciting to see everything coming together.
The yard has also kept us busy, but little by little, we’re making progress. Homestead projects may not happen overnight, but each small step adds up.
The House Painting Project Continues
The house painting project is still underway, and if we’re being honest, it has been one of the more frustrating projects we’ve tackled lately. What we hoped would be a straightforward job has come with its share of challenges and delays from the contractor we hired.
It’s never easy when a project doesn’t go according to plan, especially when it’s such a visible part of your home. Despite the setbacks, we’re trying to stay focused on the progress being made and the finish line ahead. We’re hopeful that the project will finally be completed within the next few days.
Sometimes homesteading teaches patience in unexpected ways, and this project has certainly been one of those lessons.
Growing Meat Birds
The meat birds in the chicken tractor are growing fast.
Every day they get moved to a fresh patch of grass, giving them access to new forage while helping spread their impact around the yard. It’s amazing how quickly they change from week to week. One day they seem small, and the next they’ve noticeably filled out.
The daily tractor moves have become part of our daily chore routine.
A Much-Needed Girls Day
Not every moment on the homestead is spent working.
This week, I was lucky enough to enjoy a girls day with my daughter. We treated ourselves to pedicures, grabbed lunch together, and spent some time shopping.
By the end of the day, we were completely exhausted, but in the very best way, of course.
Life gets busy, and those one-on-one moments with our children are treasures I never want to take for granted.
Adventures for the Teenage Son
While the girls were enjoying their day out, my teenage son managed to squeeze in some dirt bike riding with a friend.
The homestead keeps all of us busy, so it’s nice when the kids can take a break and enjoy being kids. A little adventure and fresh air are good for the soul.
Grateful for the Man Who Keeps It All Going
And then there’s my husband.
While the rest of us found a little downtime this week, he simply continued doing what he always does: working, working, and working some more.
Whether it’s tackling homestead projects, maintaining equipment, helping with animals, or handling countless tasks that often go unnoticed, he gives so much of himself to our family every day.
We’re incredibly thankful for all he does. The homestead wouldn’t be what it is without his dedication, hard work, and willingness to keep pushing forward even when there’s still a long list waiting for tomorrow.
Looking Ahead
This week was a reminder that homesteading isn’t just about gardens, animals, and projects. It’s also about family, shared experiences, and finding joy in the middle of the work.
The goats are happy, the birds are growing, the house is nearly painted, and we’re making steady progress one day at a time.
We’re grateful for another week on the homestead and excited to see what next week brings as we already know it will be a busy one!
From our homestead to yours,
Eliza