Homesteading?

[Poisian]

I don't really understand homesteading. Have never investigated the topic before. Sounds interesting. Can anyone point me to a good article or book that will explain the basics of homesteading?

What's it all about?

Thanks!

[Deberosa]

Wow, one book would be hard to define, but I think it would have to be Carla Emery's book Encyclopedia of Country Living. Carla passed away not too long ago and what a legacy she left behind.

I didn't know about "homesteading" as such until I had already moved into my place and for something to do on one of these long winter nights in Washington I started surfing the web. I had a barn, some nice land, and essentially a blank slate for what I wanted to do with my new treasure.

But the really cool thing about "homesteading" is that it can be whatever you define it to be. Just like everyone's garden has their own unique signature, the same is with homesteads. But the essence in my opinion is simplifying, providing more for yourself, adjusting priorities are part of the homesteading spirit.

You will find all degrees here from people who must fly in to their homes to people who homestead in their bedroom closet. There is no right or wrong way pursue the lifestyle!

[grams]

I agree that Carla's book will give a good idea of homesteading. Also the Foxfire books. One thing to also keep in mind that in today's world alot of times homesteading is just another word for self-sufficiency. So as you are reading and studying keep in mind that you don't have to do it all, just what you are able to at this time. And just speaking for myself, it is a way of life that can feed your soul.

[homesteaderbelle]

I agree with Deberosa. One book would be hard to define.
The Foxfire books are WONDERFUL. So many things to help us find self-sufficiency. You can probably get those book at you local library.
The best way to become a homesteader is to just do it. Quit buying all of the usual things that you buy at your grocery store. Learn to do without or make it yourself.
Do some study on the internet of how to do without.
I hope this helps and I hope you find some good advice on this site so you can become a homesteader!
May God Bless You!
Belle

[bee_pipes]

If you want a simple way to start - the way you eat - check out Barbara Kingsolver's book "Animal, Vegetable, Miracle" You'll never look at food the same way again, and get mad about what has been done to us with our food supply. I can't recommend this book enough to anybody - it is an excellent read.

Regards,
Pat

[exodus]

In addition to Barbara Kingsolver's book, read "Omnivore's Dilemna" and "The Meat you Eat" by Ken Midkiff. In order to get a good overview of the entire food system Wendell Berry's non fiction books on sustainable farming and other essays are helpful.

There are several writers in "Countrside" magazine that will be helpful for any homestead/ Good luck for it can be a wonderful mindset. Been at it since the 1970's.

Exodus

[flatwater]

I have always believed homesteading is a state of mind. It's been in mankinds dna for a bunch of years depending on your belief system. Before the modern age , everyone was a homesteader at heart. Mankind just got lazy. I know city flatlanders that are homesteaders in their hearts. Circumstances at the time won't allow them to escape the city yet.
Flatwater

[oldnndway]

Homesteading in it's truest sense is a lot more than what I do.
I'm more into trying to be a little bit prepared for the power going off for an extended period of time.

I'd love to have a small farm and raise my own food but I ain't there and don't suspect I ever will be (unless forced to it).
I can use the ideas that those that are off grid (or on) and living off the land etc. post on here.

In the meantime I am trying to get together the hardware that will allow me to be able to make do if for some reason the lights go out for an extended period or my house is gone. (both have happened to me and I'm still here so I survived, so far)

I guess it's more a survivalist mindset than a homesteader.