“Homesteading is a lifestyle of self-sufficiency. It is characterized by subsistence agriculture, home preservation of foodstuffs, and it may or may not also involve the small scale production of textiles, clothing and craftwork for household use or sale.” -from Merriam Webster
Modern Homesteaders often use renewable energy options including solar energy and wind power and some even invent DIY cars! Many also choose to plant and grow heirloom vegetables and to raise heritage livestock. Homesteading is not defined by where someone lives, such as the city or the country, by the lifestyle choices they make.
With the up and coming interest in homesteading in our area, the Drake Public Library has purchased a set of DVDs produced by Franklin Springs Family Media called “Homestead Blessings”. The 9 piece series includes step by step directions in Bread Making, Candle Making, Canning, Cooking, Dairy Product Use, Gardening, Herb Preparation and Use, Sewing and Soap Making.
Of course my first thought was, “This would be great for our 4H kids that might be thinking about next year already!” But really, this series is for anyone interested in learning these skills that don’t tend to be taught much anymore. The films are full of helpful instruction, practical tips and fun filled insight into these homesteading skills and are presented by a group of women with practical knowledge and experience in each of these areas.
Are you interested in learning more about these subjects? Come to the Drake Public Library and check out one of these DVDs or look through our catalog for other homesteading materials. There are other DVDs, books and magazines that you might be interested in seeing. We are more than happy to help you find just the right thing within our own collection or look through the inter library loan system.
Small steps toward self-sufficiency can truly change or perhaps improve your quality of life. And, you might just enjoy it!
