Simplifying the Holidays at Olden Oasis Homestead
When it comes to the holidays at our homestead, I like to keep things simple. I dust off my vintage Christmas tree, adorned with family ornaments that have been passed down through the generations. You won't catch me splurging on new decorations—I prefer to cherish the old treasures I already have or get crafty with items I've collected over the years. Frugality is my middle name, and I refuse to waste money on unnecessary holiday fluff.
A little background history for you all:
I find joy in painting pretty pine cones and displaying them in wicker baskets above the mantle. I dabble in homemade candle and soap making, fashion wooden reindeer out of tree limbs, and weave grapevine wreaths. Creativity is my forte!
I don't believe in extravagant feasts, even during the holidays. No one should go bankrupt over a meal. Growing up, my family faced tough times, but we always had food on the table and our needs met. I remember stories of the Great Depression and the days when a successful hunting trip meant a raccoon BBQ.
I didn't have a landline phone until I was 14—can you imagine? Hunting for dinner was a reality in my household. Those experiences taught me the value of frugality and resilience. So, when the holidays approach, I sit back and appreciate the old treasures that have shaped me into the person I am today.
One of my first Christmases on my own, all I had in my kitchen was a massive electric tea kettle. And you know what? I cooked a whole duck in that bad boy overnight. Yep, you read that right—a whole duck in a tea kettle. It may sound crazy, but it's a true story!
Now, some people might think that's a sad tale, but not me. I turned that situation into a culinary masterpiece and had a delicious and memorable Christmas meal. I was beaming with pride, let me tell you.
So, the moral of the story is this: make the best of what you've got. Don't break the bank trying to impress others, because at the end of the day, you've got to impress yourself. Have a fantastic Christmas, folks!