Homesteading.
Since we’re all “snowed in” what are 3 things you plan to save and buy yourself this year? I’m not talking responsibilities. I’m talking things you want. I may not even get all of mine this year but my top 3 wants are:
1. Pressure Canner
2. Dehydrator
3. Freeze Dryer
I can water bath can, but I’d really like to start better preserving our garden and meat outside of frozen and acidic. I guess ultimately mine are tied to responsibilities but I hate putting in hard work and being limited with what I can do with the outcome. I know people are in their “homestead” era but it’s really not a trend. I grew up on a farm, I’ve had animals my whole life, I grew up hunting, fishing and preserving. I’ve seen it done with salt, canning, fermentation, etc. I’ve raised chickens, pigs, helped with cows, and still have a variety of small animals. I was in pharmacy for years and I loved studying origins of medicine and “granny magic” and I have started reading more into that again. Home apothecary. Our ancestors lived in these lands and thrived because they were self sufficient and knowledgeable about what the land provided to them. Don’t get me wrong, I’m not trying to be a “crunchy” mom, and I love modern medicine. I just want to do things that help my soul slow down. With everything going on in this world, sometimes I love putting the phone down and connecting with nature.
#homesteading #canning #homegrown #selfsufficiency West Virginia
Having grown up on a farm myself, I know the importance of preserving what you grow and harvest to enjoy it year-round. The author’s choice of a pressure canner, dehydrator, and freeze dryer highlights some of the best ways to extend the shelf life of fresh goods beyond simple freezing or traditional water bath canning. Pressure canning is essential for safely preserving low-acid foods such as meats and vegetables by eliminating harmful bacteria under high heat and pressure, ensuring food safety for your family. Dehydrators allow you to make lightweight, nutritious snacks like dried fruit, jerky, and herbs, perfect for busy days or emergency food supplies. Freeze drying, while a bigger investment, locks in flavor and nutrients better than other methods and creates foods that can last for decades. It's wonderful to see how homesteading isn't just a trend but a lifestyle rooted in generations of knowledge about living off the land and being resourceful. In my experience, combining modern preservation tools with traditional practices such as fermentation or salting offers a more diverse and resilient pantry. It truly feels rewarding when you prep your own garden harvest or home-raised meats and know that you can provide wholesome foods for your household through the seasons. Moreover, taking time away from screens to connect with nature or practice home remedies enriches mental well-being and appreciation for simple living. If you’re considering starting or upgrading your homestead equipment, consider your space, budget, and long-term goals. Local farmers or homestead communities can be great resources for learning and sharing tips. This way, homesteading continues to grow as a fulfilling blend of tradition, self-sufficiency, and modern innovation—supporting health, sustainability, and a slowed-down pace of life that nurtures both body and soul.