Welcome to Barndovilla! Nestled in the heart of the Ozark Mountains, our homestead journey is all about creating a sustainable and rewarding life on the land. In today’s blog post, we’re diving into a recent video where we tackled some major projects around the homestead. From removing stubborn tree stumps to expanding our chicken run and even harvesting our first watermelons, it was a day full of hard work, learning experiences, and plenty of fun. So grab a cup of coffee, get comfy, and join us as we take you through the ins and outs of this action-packed day on the homestead.
YouTube Homestead Video
Table of Contents
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The Challenge of Stump Removal: Why It’s Important for Your Homestead
Why We Needed to Remove the Stumps
One of the biggest challenges we’ve faced on the homestead has been dealing with leftover tree stumps. These stumps, left over from previous land clearing, were not only an eyesore but also a physical barrier preventing us from expanding our fence line and utilizing more of our land. Additionally, stumps can become a haven for pests like termites, ants, and other critters that you definitely don’t want getting too comfortable on your property.
On this particular day, we had a cluster of five large stumps that were particularly problematic. They were located along the south side of our property, right where we planned to extend our fence line. It was clear that removing these stumps was a top priority if we wanted to make progress on our homestead expansion.
The Tools We Used: Mini Excavator vs. Tractor
When it comes to stump removal, having the right tools can make all the difference. For this job, we brought in Mike with his trusty mini excavator. We’ve tried using our smaller tractor with a backhoe attachment in the past, but it just didn’t have the power needed to handle these stubborn stumps. The mini excavator, on the other hand, packed enough punch to get the job done.
The process wasn’t easy—these stumps were deeply rooted, with some going 4 to 4.5 feet deep into the ground. The soil in the Ozarks, while rich and fertile, can be a challenge to work with because of its rocky nature. However, the mini excavator proved to be up to the task, and after some maneuvering and muscle, we were able to get those stumps out of the ground.
Preparing the Land: Clearing the Tree Line for Future Projects
Why Clearing the Tree Line Was Necessary
Once the stumps were out, our next task was to clear the surrounding tree line. This is an essential step in preparing the land for future projects, whether it’s building new structures, planting crops, or simply improving the aesthetics of the property. For us, clearing this particular tree line was all about getting ready to put in an electric fence.
An electric fence is a must-have on a homestead, especially if you’re raising livestock or growing crops that you want to protect from wildlife. By clearing the tree line, we’re not only making space for the fence but also ensuring that it will be effective. Overhanging branches or thick brush can interfere with the fence, reducing its effectiveness and potentially leading to problems down the line.
Preserving What We Can: The Importance of Shade and Habitat
While we cleared out a lot of brush and smaller trees, we made a conscious effort to preserve certain trees, like a particularly nice cedar tree. Shade is incredibly valuable on a homestead, especially in the hot and humid climate of north-central Arkansas. By keeping certain trees intact, we’re not only maintaining natural shade but also preserving habitat for local wildlife. We’ve found that a balanced approach—clearing where necessary but preserving what we can—is the best way to manage our land sustainably.
Homestead Hacks: Turning Debris into Chicken Bedding
The Problem: What to Do with All That Brush?
After clearing the tree line and removing the stumps, we were left with a significant amount of brush and debris. On a homestead, nothing goes to waste if you can help it, and that’s where a little ingenuity comes into play. Instead of simply hauling off the brush or burning it, we decided to repurpose it into chicken bedding.
https://t.co/Jl3BmSfy6U Welcome to another sun-filled, sweat-packed day at Barndovilla! 🌞 We’re deep into clearing stumps, setting up premium poultry netting, and harvesting our first homegrown watermelons.
For this task, we brought out our DK2 chipper. This machine is an absolute workhorse when it comes to processing brush. By feeding the branches and smaller logs through the chipper, we were able to produce a nice, soft bedding material for our chickens. Not only is this a great way to recycle organic material, but it also saves us money on buying bedding and reduces our waste output.
Chicken bedding serves multiple purposes on the homestead. It keeps the chicken coop clean and dry, helps control odors, and eventually breaks down into nutrient-rich compost that can be used in the garden. It’s a perfect example of the kind of closed-loop system we strive to create at Barndovilla.
The Joy of Harvest: Growing and Enjoying Watermelons
First Time Growing Watermelons: Successes and Lessons Learned
After a morning full of hard work, we took a well-deserved break to enjoy the fruits of our labor—literally! This year, we decided to try our hand at growing watermelons for the first time, and let me tell you, it was a sweet success. There’s something incredibly satisfying about growing your own food, especially when it turns out as delicious as these watermelons did.
Harvesting and Tasting Our Watermelons
The moment of truth came when we cut open our first watermelon. The bright red flesh and sweet, juicy flavor were everything we hoped for. As it turns out, watermelon is relatively easy to grow in our Ozark soil, especially if you give the plants plenty of water and sunshine. We planted seeded varieties, which means we can save seeds for next year’s crop—a win-win in terms of sustainability and cost savings.
The joy of growing and harvesting your own food is one of the most rewarding aspects of homesteading. It’s a reminder of why we chose this lifestyle in the first place—to connect with the land, nurture our resources, and enjoy the simple pleasures of life.
Expanding the Chicken Run: Enhancing Our Poultry Setup
Why We Expanded the Chicken Run
As any homesteader knows, chickens are a vital part of a sustainable farm. They provide eggs, help control pests, and contribute to the overall health of the soil through their natural tilling and fertilizing actions. Given how important our chickens are, we decided it was time to expand their run and give them more space to roam and forage.
We chose to expand the chicken run into our sunflower garden, which had already been harvested for the season. This not only provides the chickens with a new area to explore but also allows them to clean up any leftover seeds, which helps prepare the soil for the next planting cycle.
Setting Up the Premium Poultry Netting
To make this expansion possible, we needed a reliable way to contain the chickens and protect them from predators. Enter the premium poultry netting we recently reviewed in our video. This netting is lightweight, easy to set up, and highly visible, making it an excellent choice for our homestead.
The netting comes with sturdy stakes and guy ropes, ensuring that it stays in place even in windy conditions. One of the features we appreciated most was the double spikes, which allow you to push the stakes into the ground with your foot—no need for a mallet, which is a real time-saver.
We connected the poultry netting to our existing electric fence system, adding an extra layer of protection. Electrifying the fence and the chicken coop provides a strong deterrent against predators like snakes and raccoons, which are always a concern in rural areas.
The Importance of Proper Fence and Coop Setup
Why Electrification Matters
One of the key takeaways from expanding the chicken run was the importance of electrifying not just the fence but the entire coop. Chickens, while hardy in many respects, are vulnerable to predators. A secure, electrified setup is crucial for their safety and for our peace of mind.
The process of electrifying the chicken run and coop wasn’t difficult, but it did require careful planning and setup. By running an electric line from the fence to the coop, we were able to create a seamless barrier that keeps unwanted visitors out. This setup has been incredibly effective, and we highly recommend it to other homesteaders looking to protect their flocks.
Maintaining Equipment: The Ups and Downs of Chainsaw Maintenance
Chainsaw Troubles: When Things Don’t Go as Planned
No day on the homestead is complete without a few hiccups, and this day was no exception. After clearing the stumps and expanding the chicken run, we turned our attention to helping out a family member with some tree removal. However, our chainsaws had other ideas.
Despite our best efforts, both chainsaws started acting up, refusing to run smoothly after a short while. It quickly became apparent that we were dealing with a fuel problem—likely some bad gas that was causing the chainsaws to sputter and stall. This was frustrating, to say the least, but it’s all part of the homesteading experience.
The Solution: Fuel Replacement and Chainsaw Maintenance
Our solution was to drain the old fuel, replace it with fresh gas, and give the chainsaws a thorough cleaning. We also decided to pick up some new chains, as the old ones had taken a beating during our earlier stump removal efforts. Maintaining your equipment is crucial on a homestead, where tools like chainsaws are essential for day-to-day operations.
Lessons Learned: The Value of Patience and Perseverance
Overcoming Challenges and Celebrating Wins
As we wrapped up the day, it was clear that we had accomplished a lot, despite the challenges we faced. From successfully removing stumps and expanding the chicken run to enjoying our first watermelon harvest, it was a day filled with both hard work and rewarding moments.
Homesteading is a lifestyle that requires patience, perseverance, and a willingness to adapt when things don’t go as planned. Whether it’s dealing with stubborn stumps, maintaining equipment, or simply managing the day-to-day tasks, every challenge is an opportunity to learn and grow.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Barndovilla?
With the tree line cleared and the chicken run expanded, our next big project will be installing the electric fence and continuing to prepare the land for future planting. We’re also looking forward to more harvests, as our garden continues to produce a bounty of fruits and vegetables.
Thank you for joining us on this journey. We hope you enjoyed this behind-the-scenes look at a day in the life at Barndovilla. Whether you’re an experienced homesteader or just starting out, we hope you found some inspiration and practical tips to apply to your own homestead. Stay tuned for more updates, videos, and blog posts as we continue to build, grow, and enjoy life on the land.
Affiliate Notice: Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. This helps support our homestead and allows us to continue sharing our journey with you. Thank you for your support!
Final Thoughts: Embracing the Homestead Lifestyle
Homesteading is more than just a way of life—it’s a commitment to self-sufficiency, sustainability, and community. At Barndovilla, we’re constantly learning, adapting, and sharing our experiences with others who are on a similar path. Whether it’s through our YouTube videos, blog posts, or hands-on projects, our goal is to inspire and empower others to embrace the homestead lifestyle.
We invite you to follow along with our journey, subscribe to our YouTube channel, and check out our other blog posts for more tips, tricks, and insights into homesteading in the Ozarks. Together, we can create a thriving, sustainable future—one project at a time. See more at https://barndovilla.com/journal/
Hey everyone, welcome back to Backroads Homesteading! Today was another vibrant day out here, filled with gardening, bread-making, and some unexpected guests from nature.
We started our day planning to plant some lovely tomato seedlings given to us by our friends Jason and Tara. With our trellis ready to support their growth, we’re excited about the bounty of tomatoes we’ll harvest this year. We’re planting them a bit further apart this time to ensure they grow upwards rather than outwards, which helps in preventing any spoilage and maintaining good airflow around each plant.
In the midst of our planting, I decided to multitask by recording an audio podcast. For those of you who love tuning into our talks, check out our podcasts on Backroads Homesteading. We’ve got a whole series available that you can download or stream during your commute or while you’re gardening!
While gardening, we tackled some bread-making as well. I tried my hand at a sourdough loaf using a starter from Terry – and let me tell you, it turned out deliciously warm and comforting. It’s these small victories in the kitchen that make homesteading so rewarding.
Our work didn’t stop at the garden and kitchen. We moved on to some DIY projects, trying to get the ceiling up in Link’s room. We’re working with natural wood and figuring out installations for low-profile can lights. It’s a learning curve, but each step teaches us something new.
Interestingly, while working we encountered some curious salamanders and a toad, reminding us that we share this space with many other creatures. It’s essential to observe and respect these little fellows, ensuring our homesteading activities don’t disrupt their habitats.
By the end of the day, we managed to install new lighting and planned out the ceiling fan installation. Tomorrow promises more tasks, with a mini-split installation and flooring on the agenda. It’s busy here, but that’s how we like it.
If you enjoy peeking into our daily life and ongoing projects, don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more updates. We appreciate you joining us on this journey and look forward to sharing more of our adventures. See you in the next video!
Welcome to another exciting journey on our homestead! Today, we’re diving into a variety of projects that keep our rural life vibrant and fulfilling. From upgrading our chicken tractor to enhancing our barndominium and planting seeds, we’re embracing the challenges and joys of homesteading.
Checking On Covered Plants: Navigating Frosty Mornings
One of the challenges of early spring gardening is dealing with fluctuating temperatures, especially those chilly mornings that bring unexpected frost. To protect our tender seedlings, we’ve been diligently covering our plants at night.
As the sun rises and the frost begins to melt, it’s a critical time to check on our covered plants. The first step is to assess the overnight impact. Even with protection, frost can sometimes sneak through, so we carefully inspect each plant for signs of frostbite or wilting. It’s a relief to see that, more often than not, our efforts pay off and the plants have made it through the night unscathed.
Next, we focus on the soil. It’s important to ensure that the soil hasn’t frozen, as this can hinder root growth and nutrient uptake. A gentle touch reveals that the soil is still soft and moist, a good sign that our plants are in a healthy environment.
As we uncover the plants, we’re greeted by the vibrant greens and budding leaves of our resilient seedlings. It’s a beautiful sight that reinforces the importance of our protective measures. We take this opportunity to check for any pests or diseases that might have taken advantage of the covered environment. Thankfully, all seems well.
This daily ritual of covering and uncovering plants is a testament to the care and attention required in gardening. It’s a reminder that, with a little extra effort, we can protect our plants from the unpredictable elements and help them thrive in the early stages of growth.
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Planting and Gardening
With spring in full swing, our focus has shifted to planting and gardening. We’ve started with tea seeds and watermelons, carefully potting them and monitoring their growth. We’re experimenting with different potting techniques to find the best method for healthy root development.
We’ve also introduced a new labeling system using a thermal printer. This allows us to include more detailed information on the plant tags, such as optimal pH levels and planting dates. It’s a small change, but it’s already proving to be a valuable tool in keeping our garden organized and efficient.
One of the most exciting developments has been the splitting of our worm bucket. This is part of our ongoing effort to improve our soil quality through vermicomposting. By increasing our worm population, we’re able to produce more nutrient-rich castings, which are then used to enrich our garden beds. It’s a sustainable cycle that not only benefits our plants but also reduces waste.
Using a Thermal Printer: Streamlining Garden Organization
In our continuous quest to improve efficiency and organization in our garden, we’ve recently incorporated a thermal printer into our labeling system. This small but mighty tool has revolutionized the way we keep track of our plants.
Traditionally, labeling plants involved writing on plastic or wooden tags with a marker, which can fade over time or become illegible due to weather conditions. With the thermal printer, we can now print clear, durable labels that withstand the elements and provide a wealth of information.
The beauty of using a thermal printer lies in its versatility. We can customize the labels to include not just the plant name, but also additional details such as optimal pH levels, planting dates, and care instructions. This level of detail is invaluable as our garden grows and we juggle the needs of various plants.
The process is simple and efficient. We design the labels on a computer or smartphone, and the printer quickly produces them on heat-sensitive paper. The labels are then easily attached to plant stakes or pots. The thermal printing technology means there’s no ink to smudge or fade, ensuring that the labels remain legible for the entire growing season.
Integrating a thermal printer into our gardening routine has been a game-changer. It’s a small investment that pays off in saved time and improved accuracy, allowing us to focus more on the joys of gardening and less on the administrative tasks.
Planting Tea Seeds: A Journey into Herbal Cultivation
Embarking on the cultivation of tea plants is a new and exciting endeavor for our homestead. Tea, with its myriad of health benefits and soothing properties, is a wonderful addition to our garden.
The process begins with selecting high-quality tea seeds. We chose varieties known for their robust flavor and adaptability to our climate. Before planting, we soaked the seeds in water, a crucial step that helps to soften the outer shell and encourage germination.
We carefully prepared planting cups, filling them with a mix of soil and perlite to ensure good drainage and aeration. The tea seeds were then gently placed on the surface of the soil, with just a light covering of soil on top. Tea seeds need light to germinate, so we made sure not to bury them too deeply.
Patience is key when growing tea from seed, as germination can take several weeks. We kept the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, and placed the cups in a warm, bright spot to provide the ideal conditions for germination.
As the seeds sprout and grow, we’ll monitor their progress, ensuring they receive the right balance of light, water, and nutrients. Eventually, these seedlings will be transplanted into larger pots and, in time, into our garden where they can flourish and contribute to our sustainable lifestyle.
Planting tea seeds is more than just adding another crop to our garden; it’s an exploration of new flavors, traditions, and the art of tea-making. We’re excited to watch these plants grow and look forward to the day we can harvest our own leaves to brew a cup of homegrown tea.
Worm Farming: A Key Component of Our Homestead
One of the most rewarding aspects of our homesteading journey has been our foray into worm farming. Not only do worms play a crucial role in soil health, but they also provide a sustainable way to manage organic waste.
Our worm buckets have become an integral part of our gardening routine. By splitting the worm buckets, we’ve effectively doubled our worm population. This increase is vital for producing more worm castings, which are a fantastic organic fertilizer. The process is simple: we feed the worms kitchen scraps and other organic materials, and in return, they produce nutrient-rich castings that we can use to enrich our garden beds.
Observing the growth and reproduction of the worms has been fascinating. We’ve noticed a significant increase in baby worms, indicating a healthy and thriving environment. This is a good sign that we’re providing the right balance of food and habitat for our worm population to flourish.
We’re also experimenting with different methods to protect the worms and their habitat. In our first worm bucket, we used silicone to secure the screens, but found that it didn’t stick well to the plastic. So, we switched to using pop rivets, which seem to be a more effective solution for keeping flies and moths out while allowing air to circulate.
As we continue to expand our worm farming operation, we’re looking forward to seeing the positive impact it will have on our garden’s productivity. The worms are not only helping us reduce waste, but they’re also playing a crucial role in creating a more sustainable and self-sufficient homestead.
Sealing Roof Leaks: Ensuring the Integrity of Our Barndominium
Maintaining the integrity of our barndominium’s roof is crucial for protecting our home and possessions from water damage. Recently, we’ve encountered some challenges with roof leaks, particularly where the metal roofing panels overlap. To address this, we’ve embarked on a mission to seal these leaks and prevent future issues.
The first step in this process was to identify the source of the leaks. We noticed that water was wicking back under the overlapping metal panels during heavy rains. To combat this, we decided to install J-channel along the edges of the roof. The J-channel is designed to redirect water away from the seams and into the gutters, effectively preventing it from seeping underneath the panels.
In addition to the J-channel, we applied a high-quality sealant along the seams and edges of the roofing panels. This sealant forms a waterproof barrier that fills any gaps or cracks where water might penetrate. It’s important to choose a sealant that is compatible with the roofing material and can withstand the elements, ensuring a long-lasting solution.
We also made sure to inspect and clean the gutters and downspouts, as clogged gutters can contribute to roof leaks by causing water to back up and seep under the roofing material. Regular maintenance of the gutters is an essential part of preventing roof leaks.
Sealing roof leaks is a critical task that requires attention to detail and a proactive approach. By addressing these issues promptly, we can protect our barndominium from water damage and ensure its longevity. It’s a reminder that regular maintenance and vigilance are key to a well-functioning homestead.
Homestead Hacks and Tips
Homesteading is all about innovation and making the most of what you have. In that spirit, we’ve come up with a few hacks and tips that have made a big difference in our daily routines.
One of our recent projects was constructing a chicken run with raised beds. This dual-purpose setup not only provides our chickens with fresh grass and bugs to forage but also protects our vegetable beds from pests. It’s a win-win situation that enhances the productivity and health of our homestead.
We’ve also been experimenting with different planting methods. For example, we’ve tried soaking some of our seeds before planting to encourage faster germination. It’s been encouraging to see some of these seeds sprout and begin to develop their first taproot. These small experiments help us learn and adapt, ensuring that we’re always improving our gardening techniques.
Another tip we’ve found useful is using scrap materials to create functional homestead equipment. For example, we used scrap rebar to make an axle for the back of our chicken tractor. This simple addition has made it much easier to move the tractor around our property, demonstrating that you don’t always need to buy new materials to solve a problem.
The canoe bed was wilty. Upon investigation, the drain holes (all of them) failed. We left the front and rear baffles in, thankfully. Easy to drain through the baffles vs. the tub. The water smelled anaerobic, so we know it would likely kill healthy roots. Hopefully, we caught… pic.twitter.com/5SZkT83EUg
Our canoe garden, a unique and aesthetic addition to our homestead, recently faced some drainage challenges. After a series of torrential downpours, we noticed that the drainage holes in the canoe were clogged, causing water to accumulate and stress the plants.
To address this issue, we decided to add more drainage holes to the sides of the canoe. While we initially hesitated to make these modifications, the health of our plants took precedence. Using a drill, we carefully added new holes above the existing waterline, ensuring that any excess water could escape more effectively.
We also inspected the base of the canoe to assess the drainage situation. Despite having a layer of rocks at the bottom for this purpose, it became clear that the arrangement was insufficient for heavy rains. We realized that a more porous material or a better configuration might be needed to improve drainage.
The smell of the water was another concern. A foul odor can indicate anaerobic conditions, which are harmful to plant roots. Fortunately, we caught the issue in time and were able to aerate the water by adding more drainage holes, preventing further damage to the plants.
Fixing the drainage in our canoe garden was a learning experience. It reminded us of the importance of regular maintenance and the need to adapt our gardening strategies to the whims of the weather. With these fixes in place, we’re hopeful that our canoe garden will continue to thrive and bring beauty to our homestead.
Creating a Raised Bed Chicken Run: Innovation in Action
One of our recent projects has been the creation of a raised bed chicken run. This innovative setup serves multiple purposes, providing our chickens with a safe and enriching environment while also protecting our vegetable beds from pests.
The concept is simple yet effective. We constructed raised beds for our vegetable garden and then built a chicken run around them. The chickens have access to the area between the beds, where they can forage for insects and enjoy fresh grass. This not only keeps them happy and healthy but also helps control pests naturally.
The raised beds are designed to be high enough to prevent the chickens from jumping into them, protecting our vegetables from being pecked at or trampled. At the same time, the proximity of the chickens to the beds means they can still contribute to the garden’s ecosystem by providing natural fertilizer through their droppings.
Building the raised bed chicken run required some planning and effort, but the results have been incredibly rewarding. It’s a sustainable solution that aligns with our goals of creating a productive and harmonious homestead. The chickens enjoy their spacious run, and we enjoy the peace of mind knowing our garden is protected.
This project is a testament to the creativity and innovation that homesteading demands. It’s about finding solutions that benefit both us and our animals, creating a balanced and thriving environment for all.
Converting the Chicken Coop to a Chicken Tractor: A Mobile Solution
Our journey in enhancing the functionality of our homestead led us to convert an existing chicken coop into a mobile chicken tractor. This transformation was driven by the desire to provide our chickens with fresh foraging opportunities while naturally fertilizing different areas of our land.
Step 1: Assessing the Existing Structure
The first step in this conversion was to thoroughly assess the existing chicken coop. We evaluated its size, weight, and overall condition to determine if it was suitable for conversion. The coop needed to be sturdy enough to withstand movement but light enough to be easily transported.
Step 2: Adding Mobility
The key to converting the coop into a tractor was to add mobility. We decided to use scrap rebar to create an axle for the back of the coop. This axle would support solid rubber tires, chosen for their durability and ease of maintenance. The tires were positioned to provide enough clearance for the coop to move smoothly over uneven ground.
Step 3: Constructing a Bumper System
To ensure the stability of the axle and to protect the coop during movement, we constructed a bumper system. This involved attaching wooden beams to the back of the coop, which would hold the axle in place and act as a buffer in case of any collisions.
Step 4: Testing and Adjustments
With the mobility features in place, it was time to test the newly converted chicken tractor. We attached it to a three-point hitch on our tractor to see if it could be lifted and moved easily. The initial test revealed that while the coop was mobile, some adjustments were needed to ensure smooth movement and stability. We fine-tuned the positioning of the tires and reinforced the bumper system.
Step 5: Final Touches
The final step was to add some practical features to the chicken tractor. We installed a new latch door for easy access and built a perch-style walkway for the chickens to enjoy. We also planned to add a rainwater collection system to provide a sustainable water source for the chickens.
Conclusion
Converting our chicken coop into a tractor was a rewarding project that aligned with our goals of sustainability and efficiency. The mobile coop allows us to rotate the chickens’ grazing areas, reducing the need for commercial fertilizers and providing the chickens with a varied and natural diet. It’s a win-win situation that enhances the health of our land and our flock.
Spring is a time of renewal and growth, but it’s not without its challenges. As homesteaders, we’re always at the mercy of the weather, and this spring was no exception. We faced an unexpected freeze that put our plants at risk and tested our resilience. However, with some quick thinking and adaptation, we managed to protect our crops and move forward with our plans.
The Low Tunnel Solution
One of our major projects this spring was the construction of a low tunnel. This simple structure, made from galvanized electrical conduit and covered with plastic, provided a much-needed shelter for our plants during the cold snap. It’s a cost-effective solution that we’ll continue to use in the future to extend our growing season and protect our crops from frost.
New Additions to the Flock
Spring also brought new life to our homestead in the form of a flock of laying hens. We chose a mix of breeds, including Onyx Californians and Rhode Island Reds, to ensure a good variety of eggs. We’re also expecting some Cornish Crosses soon, which we’ll raise for meat. Building the chicken tractors for these birds has been a fun project, and we’re looking forward to modifying our coop to accommodate our growing flock.
Socializing Chicks and Dogs
Introducing our dog, Maddie, to the chicks was an important step in ensuring harmony on the homestead. It’s essential that our animals get along and understand their roles. We’re pleased to report that Maddie has taken to her new friends well, and we’re confident that she’ll be a great protector of the flock as they grow.
Preparing the Coop
The coop that was on the property when we purchased it needed some work, but it’s proving to be a solid foundation for our laying hens. We have plans to add tractor tires to the base and build out a full cage for a run, complete with an automatic door. This will allow us to move the coop easily and give the hens fresh ground to forage on each day.
Building and Organizing
Sustainability is a core value of ours, and we’ve been focused on reusing and repurposing materials wherever possible. We’ve been organizing our building materials and planning for future projects, such as our greenhouses and planting areas. It’s a continuous process of improvement and adaptation, but it’s one that brings us closer to our goal of a self-sufficient homestead.
Embracing New Technology
I’ve been working on improving my recording skills with a GoPro to share our journey more effectively on our YouTube channel. It’s a different experience from using professional cameras, but I’m excited about the opportunity to connect with our audience in a new way.
Planting Progress
Despite the challenges posed by the weather, our planting is progressing well. Our potatoes seem to have survived the freeze, and our low tunnels have provided valuable protection for our corn. We’ve learned a lot from this experience, and we’ll be better prepared for future weather events.
Expanding Our Homestead
We have big plans for the future, including setting up an apiary and building soil with wood chips. We’re also starting our orchard with elderberries, blueberries, and apple trees. These projects will not only provide us with food and resources but also contribute to the biodiversity of our homestead.
Looking Forward
As we look ahead, we’re excited about the possibilities. We’re planning to add bees to our homestead, set up camping sites for friends and family, and continue developing our land. There’s always something to do on the homestead, and we wouldn’t have it any other way.
Spring is a time of hard work and new beginnings, and we’re grateful for the opportunity to share our journey with you. Whether you’re a seasoned homesteader or just starting out, we hope our experiences inspire you to pursue your own homesteading dreams. Thank you for joining us on this adventure, and we look forward to sharing more updates in the future!
Would we get another kit to do more? I think so. This stuff works pretty well. Below, here’s what it looks like with the R19 insulation on top of the spray foam and then the radiant barrier and tongue and groove. Should look pretty good when done.
For those who follow our journey, you know we’re all about DIY and learning as we go. This project was no different, and I’m here to take you through the highs, the lows, and the sticky situations (quite literally).
We kicked off this project with the goal of tackling the radiant heat in one of our rooms. The radiant heat was intense, and after sealing some cracks, it was time to bring in the big guns—or should I say, the big cans of Vega (or VGA) foam insulation. This purple foam promised to be our savior, despite my initial struggle with the backlight during filming. Lesson one in spray foaming: camera angles matter, folks.
Applying the foam was a new experience for us. The instructions were clear—keep the can 12 to 18 inches away from the surface, and make sure to apply it during the correct temperature window. Our first attempt went pretty well, and I was feeling optimistic. That was until we decided to switch tips for better coverage in the corners. Spoiler alert: it got messy.
The new tip gave us more control but made starting and stopping a Herculean task. After a somewhat comedic struggle, we swapped for a flat tip, which significantly improved our technique. This little adventure taught us the importance of choosing the right tool for the job—spray foam is forgiving, but only to a point.
Spray Foam Unboxing Video
Taking a break and coming back for round two, I gained a newfound respect for professional foamers. The heat, the mess, the precision required—it’s not for the faint-hearted. But, as we progressed, the Vega kit proved its worth, equipped with everything we needed for the project. Buying the kit on Amazon came with a substantial discount for the second purchase, which will be a nice bonus.
We managed to cover a 12×12 room’s ceiling to a depth of 1 to 3 inches with 12 cans. The learning curve was sorta steepish; understanding the can’s pressure dynamics was crucial. The first few applications might test your patience, but it gets easier, I promise. And let me tell you, this foam grips like a dream. It adhered to every surface, impressing even a skeptic like me.
This project was a rollercoaster of emotions and foam. From the initial backlit confusion to the messy triumphs with various nozzles, it’s been a journey. The Vega Bond foam exceeded our expectations, and while we may have been novices at the start, I feel pretty confident in our foaming skills now.
To those contemplating a similar project, dive in. It’s messy, it’s challenging, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. And to the professionals out there, consider this a tip of the hat. Your job is tough, and we’ve got nothing but respect for the work you do.
Until our next adventure on the homestead—be it back roads, DIY, or another round of spray foam—this is Ryan signing off. Keep tackling those projects, and we’ll see you in the next blog post.
With the framing done, we kicked off this adventure by tackling Link’s new room. It was all about pulling down walls, framing in a cozy nook, and prepping the back wall for the transformation that’s about to unfold. There’s something deeply satisfying about tearing down the old to make way for the new, isn’t there?
As we peeled back the layers of the house, we discovered some… let’s say ‘interesting’ choices in insulation from the previous owners. But no worries, we’re on it! We’re reimagining and reframing into the garage, optimizing every inch of space for our living quarters. And, of course, a little bonfire to bid farewell to the old materials. There’s something poetic about that, don’t you think?
Insulation? It’s the best job ever (if you don’t mind a bit of sarcasm with your fiberglass). But hey, it’s all part of the journey, and we’re feeling great about it. We’re not just building walls; we’re crafting the backdrop of our lives, complete with all the electrical nuances to make life easier and brighter.
And let’s talk about the power tools! Our first dance with a Milwaukee Saw left us with mixed feelings – but hey, that torque is undeniable. It’s all about finding the right tool for the job, and sometimes, that means a little trial and error.
As the structure took shape, we focused on the lean-to roof, sealing up the edges and pondering the perfect spots for those ever-elusive light switches. Inside, the nook stands completed, walls framed, and a hint of drywall magic in the air. We’ve even crafted a nifty storage shelf for Link’s room, ensuring his treasures have a home without cramping his style.
Now, the bathroom area is getting a special touch with a flush-up toilet and a cleverly concealed murator pump. It’s all about making the space functional and fabulous. And yes, we’ve had those moments of hindsight about the plumbing, but that’s all part of the homesteading charm, right?
As we wrap up this stage, we’re filled with gratitude for your support and excitement for what’s to come. We hope you’re enjoying the ride as much as we are. So go ahead, like, share, and subscribe, and don’t forget to hit that notification bell. We’ve got more building, more banter, and more backroads homesteading adventures on the way. Catch you in the next build video, where a little bit of faith and a whole lot of elbow grease is bringing our dream to life. And remember, Affiliate Links support our channel at no cost to you.
