Olden Oasis Homestead

Zero Waste Household: Simple Tips & Tricks to Save Money While Saving the Planet Ever thought about how your daily habits can make a big difference—not just for the environment, but also for your wallet? Transitioning to a zero waste household might seem daunting at first, but with a few clever tips and tricks, you can reduce waste, save money, and feel good about your impact on the planet. Let’s dive into some practical, helpful ideas to get you started! Table of Contents Shop Smart and Small Embrace Reusables DIY and Upcycle Practice Mindful Consumption Get Involved and Share Resources Shop Smart and Small One of the quickest ways to cut waste—and save money—is to buy only what you need. Bring your own containers and bags when shopping, and opt for bulk items to reduce packaging.  Tip: Make a shopping list to avoid impulse buys that often end up unused and discarded. Embrace Reusables Swap single-use items for durable, reusable alternatives: 1) Cloth shopping bags instead of...

Being Self-Sufficient on Your Homestead: Tips and Tricks for a Thriving, Independent Life Imagine waking up every morning to the sound of birdsong, knowing that your efforts sustain your home, your family, and your lifestyle without relying heavily on outside resources. Achieving true self-sufficiency on a homestead might seem daunting at first, but with the right mindset, planning, and a few clever tricks, you can transform your property into a resilient, self-reliant haven. Whether you're just starting out or looking to deepen your homesteading skills, this guide offers practical tips and creative ideas to help you thrive independently. Table of Contents Start with the Basics: Food, Water, Shelter Grow Your Own Food: Gardens, Orchards, and Preservation Raise Your Own Livestock: Meat, Dairy, and Eggs Embrace Renewable Energy: Solar, Wind, and More Water and Waste Management Develop Key Skills & Build Community Creative Tricks & Little-known Hacks Conclusion:...

Transforming Old Shoes into Garden Treasures: A Creative Way to Keep Loved Ones Close Gardening is a beloved pastime that allows us to connect with nature, nurture life, and create beautiful outdoor spaces. But what if your garden could also be a place of heartfelt memory and personal storytelling? Instead of purchasing generic planters, why not get creative with items you already have around the house? Today, I want to share a special story about how an old pair of leather shoes became a cherished garden feature—and how you can turn everyday items into meaningful, whimsical planters that keep loved ones close. Why Use Unusual Items as Garden Planters? Utilizing unexpected household items as planters not only adds character and charm to your garden but also breathes new life into objects that might otherwise be discarded. These unique planters serve as conversation starters, artistic expressions, and, most importantly, heartfelt tributes. Here are some compelling reasons to consider un...

Collecting pine cones for pine nuts One of the most awesome things about pine trees is collecting pine cones to use for decorating baskets, etc. for home decor. But did you know that every closed pine cone is also loaded with pine nuts? Today I decided that I wanted to try collecting a few pine cones to retrieve some pine nuts.  The reason why I decided to check today for pine nuts is because, normally, my pine trees don't start dropping pine cones until sometime in August through November. We are heading into July and my trees are already dropping pine cones and pine needles on the ground due to extreme heat-related-stresses. The temperature and moisture levels have a lot to do with how well pine trees produce pine cones and pine nuts. Normally, the squirrels and birds will pick the pine cones clean, so the opened pine cones will not usually have any pine nuts inside them. Collecting pine cones for pine nuts Any type of pine tree will produce pine cones with edible pine seeds. So ...

Starting Seeds Inside: Embracing the Olden Oasis Homestead’s Garden Dreams There’s something almost magical about the early days of gardening—when the promise of fresh greens and vibrant blooms feels just within reach. At Olden Oasis Homestead, I’ve been battling the urge to kick off my outdoor garden since this beautiful weather has rolled in. But with the calendar still showing early January, I know better than to fall for the “false spring” trap—that fleeting spell of warmth that tempts us to plant prematurely. Instead, I’ve decided to start my garden seeds indoors, giving my plants a strong head start for when the real spring arrives. Want to know how I’m making the most of this indoor seed-starting adventure? Let’s dig in! Why Start Seeds Indoors? The Benefits of Early Gardening Extended Growing Season: Giving seedlings a jump-start means harvests come earlier and more bountiful. Stronger Plants: Indoor starting allows for tender seedlings to develop resilience before facing outd...

Grow Your Food Indoors: A Beginner’s Guide to Hydroponic Gardening Have you ever imagined transforming a small corner of your home into a lush, productive garden, regardless of the season outside? Hydroponic gardening makes this possible—letting you grow fresh, delicious food indoors without soil. Not only is this method space-efficient and eco-friendly, but it also offers a rewarding way to connect with your food from seed to plate. Whether you're a seasoned green thumb or a curious newcomer, this guide will walk you through the essentials of cultivating food using hydroponic methods inside your own home. Table of Contents What Is Hydroponic Gardening? Why Choose Hydroponics for Indoor Food Production? Basic Components and Supplies Needed Step-by-Step Guide to Setting Up Your Hydroponic System Tips for Successful Indoor Hydroponic Gardening Common Challenges and Solutions Enjoying Your Bounty & Final Thoughts What Is Hydroponic Gardening? Hydroponic gardening is a method of gr...

Has Your Egg-Laying Hen Stopped Laying? Here’s How to Bring Them Back to Peak Production If you've noticed your once-lively hens suddenly aren't laying eggs anymore, you’re not alone. A drop or halt in egg production can be frustrating, whether it’s due to seasonal changes, age, or other environmental factors. But don’t fret—there are plenty of practical, natural ways to coax your hens back into laying. Today, at Olden Oasis, I’ll share a comprehensive list of tips and tricks to help boost your flock's egg production and keep those delightful eggs coming. Table of Contents Why Do Hens Stop Laying? Meeting Nutritional Needs Managing Light and Daylight Health and Environmental Checks Reducing Stress and Improving Comfort Supplements and Natural Aids Patience and Consistency Why Do Hens Stop Laying? Before diving into solutions, understanding why your hens might have stopped laying is essential. Common reasons include: Seasonal changes —hens often take a break during winter mo...

Eat the Weeds! Discover the Power of Henbit — Nature’s Hidden Treasure Have you ever looked out into your garden or lawn and dismissed those little green sprouts as pesky weeds? What if I told you that some of these unwanted plants, like henbit, are not just harmless filler but are packed with health benefits? The Bible reminds us that for every ailment, God has provided natural resources — and often, those resources are right under our noses. Let’s explore the fascinating world of henbit, a member of the mint family, and uncover why eating weeds like henbit could be a game-changer for your health and well-being. Table of Contents What is Henbit? A Closer Look The Surprising Health Benefits of Henbit How to Identify and Harvest Henbit Safely Delicious Ways to Incorporate Henbit into Your Diet Embrace Nature’s Pharmacy — The Wisdom in Weeds Conclusion: Reclaiming Nature’s Gifts What is Henbit? A Closer Look Henbit (Lamium amplexicaule) is a common, yet often overlooked, plant belonging ...

How to Build a Small Greenhouse Using Refurbished Windows Thinking about nurturing your plants or starting a mini garden but don’t want to break the bank? Building a small, functional greenhouse with refurbished windows is an eco-friendly and affordable solution! Plus, it’s a fun DIY project that brings a charming, vintage vibe to your garden. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the steps to create your very own small greenhouse with an A-frame roof, using recycled windows, sturdy wood, and a few handy tips. Table of Contents Gather Your Materials Designing Your Greenhouse Preparing the Foundation Building the Frame Attaching Windows & Creating the Roof Adding Hinges and a Handle Final Touches and Tips Gather Your Materials Before you start, gather the necessary supplies: Refurbished windows (preferably double-glazed for insulation) Wood for the frame (snug, weatherproof lumber like cedar or pressure-treated pine) Thick greenhouse plastic (for the A-frame roof) Hinges (preferably ...

Spring is Coming! Build an Easy, Low-Cost Cold Frame Using Tree Limbs and Greenhouse Plastic As the days grow longer and the promise of spring fills the air, many gardeners are eager to get their soil ready for planting. If you’re looking for an affordable, sustainable way to give your plants a warm start, then building a cold frame might be just what you need.  Today at my Olden Oasis Homestead, I’m excited to share a simple, environmentally friendly design for a cold frame and low tunnel—crafted entirely from materials on your property, like downed tree limbs, with just a bit of greenhouse plastic for covering. Best of all? It’s easy on the pocketbook and minimizes waste by repurposing what nature has already provided! Table of Contents Why Build a Cold Frame? Materials Needed Step-by-Step Construction Tips for Success Conclusion Why Build a Cold Frame? A cold frame is a simple, unheated outdoor structure that traps heat and protects delicate seedlings and...

How to Build an All-Natural, Zero-Cost Fence with Tree Limbs: A Sustainable Living Guide Imagine creating a sturdy, beautiful fence around your garden or yard without spending a dime or harming the environment. Using tree limbs—a resource often considered waste—you can craft an all-natural, sustainable fence that blends seamlessly into nature. Whether you’re eco-conscious, budget-savvy, or simply love the idea of living in harmony with the environment, this guide will walk you through the simple steps to turn fallen or trimmed tree limbs into a functional and charming barrier. Table of Contents Why Build an All-Natural Fence? Gathering Your Materials Preparing Your Tree Limbs Building Your Natural Fence Helpful Tips for Success Conclusion: Embrace Sustainable Living Why Build an All-Natural Fence? Creating a fence from tree limbs isn’t just about saving money — it’s about making eco-friendly choices that benefit the planet. Here are some of the key benefits: Zero Cost: Use what’s alrea...

Craft Your Own Round-Shaped Hot Pads with Cushioned Side Lips: A Cozy Touch for Your Kitchen If you've ever struggled with finding the perfect hot pad that not only protects your hands but also adds a charming touch to your countertop, this DIY project is just what you need! These custom round-shaped hot pads with cushioned side lips are not only practical—they’re adorable, versatile, and a delightful way to showcase your sewing skills. Whether you're holding hot pans, resting fresh eggs, or organizing your fruits and veggies, these hot pads are a game-changer. Ready to get started? Let's walk through the fun and simple process of creating your own! Table of Contents Materials and Preparation Cutting and Assembling the Fabric Sewing the Hot Pad Adding the Cushioned Side Lips Finishing Touches and Tips Creative Uses for Your Hot Pads Materials and Preparation Gather these essentials before diving into your sewing project: Fabric of your choice – Cotton or quilting fabric wo...

Why Chickens Need Grit: The Ultimate Guide to Types of Grit for Your Flock If you’ve ever watched a flock pecking around the yard, you’ve likely noticed them swallowing small rocks or grit. But have you wondered why chickens need grit? It’s a vital component of their digestive process, helping them turn hard, indigestible food into the nutrients they need to stay healthy and active. In this guide, we’ll explore the different types of grit, why it’s essential, and how to provide the right grit for your feathered friends. Table of Contents What Is Grit and Why Do Chickens Need It? The Types of Grit for Chickens How to Choose the Right Grit When and How to Provide Grit Common Grit Mistakes to Avoid What Is Grit and Why Do Chickens Need It? Grit is small, hard particles—such as stones or oyster shells—that chickens swallow to aid digestion. Their gizzard, a muscular part of their stomach, grinds the food with the help of these particles, breaking down seeds, grains, and other tough foods. ...

Transform Your Window Into a Sun Oven: A Creative Guide to DIY Solar Cooking with Plexiglass Imagine harnessing the sun's powerful, renewable energy right from your own home—without expensive equipment or complicated setups. What if you could turn a simple window into a makeshift sun oven, using just some plexiglass or other clear materials you have on hand, and a bit of ingenuity? Not only is this project a fun and rewarding DIY adventure, but it also provides an eco-friendly way to cook your meals, save energy, and connect with sustainable living. Let’s dive into how you can convert a window into a solar oven and start enjoying the benefits of solar cooking today! Table of Contents Why Build a Sun Oven? Tools and Materials Needed Step-by-Step Guide to Building Your Plexiglass Sun Oven Tips for Success & Safety Conclusion: Embrace Solar Cooking Why Build a Sun Oven? Using a sun oven isn’t just a quirky science experiment—it’s an exciting way to cook with clean, free energy. He...

Foraging for Cattails: Nature's Hidden Gem If you've ever wandered through the wetlands, you might have noticed the tall, grassy plants with distinctive brown, sausage-shaped flower heads—those are cattails. Often overlooked, these hardy plants are a treasure trove of health benefits and edible parts. Today, I’m excited to share my experience in foraging for cattails from my Olden Oasis Homestead, amazing nutritional value, and how you can incorporate them into your wild culinary adventures. Table of Contents Why Forage for Cattails? Health Benefits of Cattails Edible Parts of the Cattail Plant How to Harvest Cattails Safely Preparing and Cooking Cattails Final Thoughts and Tips Why Forage for Cattails? Growing abundantly along our wetlands, cattails are often dismissed as mere weeds or nuisances. But in reality, they’re an incredibly versatile and sustainable food source.  Foraging for cattails is a rewarding way to connect with nature, embrace self-sufficiency, and access an ...

Celebrating New Beginnings: Happy New Year 2026 from Olden Oasis Homestead As we step into 2026, there's a special kind of magic in the air here at Olden Oasis Homestead. With hopeful hearts and bright spirits, we want to extend our warmest wishes for a joyful, prosperous, and inspiring New Year to all our friends, family, and community supporters. This year promises new adventures, renewed dreams, and countless opportunities to embrace life’s beautiful moments—just like the fresh beginnings that spring at the start of each year. Table of Contents Reflecting on 2025: Our Journey and Growth Our Hopes and Dreams for 2026 Celebrating Community and Connection Moving Forward Together A Heartfelt Goodbye to 2025 and Welcome to 2026 Reflecting on 2025: Our Journey and Growth Last year was a remarkable chapter for Olden Oasis Homestead. We nurtured new gardens, welcomed more visitors to our blog, and strengthened our bonds with the community. Every challenge faced and milestone achieved re...

Bright Ideas to Slash Your Electricity Bill: Smart Tips for Saving Money If you've been feeling the pinch of soaring electricity bills, you're not alone. Many households are on the lookout for practical, budget-friendly solutions to bring those costs down. The good news? Small changes and a bit of ingenuity can make a big difference. In this post, we'll explore creative ways to cut your energy expenses—think LED solar lights, battery banks, and even modest solar panels—that can help you save money while embracing greener living. Table of Contents Understanding Your Electricity Costs Switch to LED Lighting Harness the Power of Solar Lights Invest in Battery Banks for Energy Storage Utilize Small Solar Panels Additional Tips for Reducing Electricity Bills Final Thoughts Understanding Your Energy Costs Before diving into solutions, it's essential to understand where your electricity dollars go. Conduct a quick audit: Track your usage for a week to identify high-consumption...

Transforming Broken and Vintage Wood into a Stunning Kitchen Island and Breakfast Nook Imagine turning forgotten, broken pieces of furniture and vintage barn wood into a beautiful, functional centerpiece in your home. Repurposing wood not only gives new life to aged materials, but it also adds a unique, rustic charm that mass-produced furniture simply can't match. Whether you're a seasoned DIY enthusiast or just starting to explore sustainable home upgrades, this guide will walk you through creative ways to craft a useful kitchen island and cozy breakfast nook from repurposed wood. Table of Contents Why Repurpose Old Wood for Your Kitchen Space? Gathering and Preparing Your Reclaimed Materials Design Ideas for Your Repurposed Kitchen Island Building a Rustic Breakfast Nook from Barn Wood Tips and Tricks for a Successful Repurposing Project Final Thoughts and Inspiration Why Repurpose Old Wood for Your Kitchen Space? Repurposing wood is more than just a trend—it’s a sustainable ...