By Definition
A homestead, traditionally defined as a home and its surrounding farmland, has evolved in meaning over the years, especially in our modern context.
A Lifestyle Choice
The terms “homestead,” “homesteading,” and “homesteader” can take on diverse interpretations, whether you’re managing 15 acres in a rural setting or, like my family, less than an acre in a bustling suburb with a Walmart Neighborhood Market, a Chick-fil-A, and a Starbucks just a couple of houses down. For me, the essence of homesteading lies in families striving for self-sufficiency and sustainability, making mindful choices to provide for their loved ones.
As Deborah Neimann eloquently puts it:
“Homesteading is not defined by where someone lives, such as the city or the country, but by the lifestyle choices they make.”
Deborah Niemann, Homegrown and Handmade: A Practical Guide to More Self-Reliant Living (1st Edition)
Homesteading in the ‘Burbs?
Admittedly, I hadn’t originally labeled our home a ‘homestead’ until someone casually used the term during a visit. But it gave me a lot to think about. While we don’t operate a traditional farm with hundreds of acres or strictly farm for profit, we, on our suburban plot, are aligned with the principles of homesteading as we cultivate a variety of fruits and vegetables, raise quail, chickens, turkeys, ducks, and breed meat rabbits.
Embracing Diversity
Modern-day homesteading is a diverse concept, spanning from apartment balconies filled with vegetables to suburban acres and beyond. The key is to start where you are and not be hindered by preconceived notions of an ideal homestead. Embrace creativity and make it your own. This past year, we maximized our space by thinking beyond traditional gardening. With expansions and changes to our property layout, including food-scaped walkways, we’ve tailored our homestead to suit our needs.
Remember Theodore Roosevelt’s wisdom:
“Do what you can, with what you have, where you are.”
Start Slow and Stay Proficient
Embarking on a homesteading journey can be overwhelming with the deluge of information available. My husband likens it to ‘drinking water out of a firehose.’ To avoid feeling inundated, start slow and focus on becoming proficient in one area before expanding. Homesteading is a journey with ups and downs, and it’s okay to make mistakes and learn from them.
So, whether you begin with a backyard flock of chickens or a small garden, take pride in your journey. Homesteading requires grit and grace – a perfect blend of determination and understanding as you navigate the path towards self-reliant living.
HAPPY HOMESTEADING!
