Turn that Homestead Dream into Reality!

I am a homestead dreamer! And having had this homesteading seed planted in my spirit for the last few years, it is with this inspiration that I am determined to cultivate my dream homestead right where I am until I get to where I want to be. In this post, I want to inspire you to do the same and invite you to journey with me as a homemaker and future homesteading mama!

Living in an apartment, townhome, or the burbs doesn't have to stop you from chasing your dream of owning a homestead and living a self-sustaining lifestyle. There are plenty of opportunities to embrace the homestead way of life and create a haven for you and your family. The best part is you don't even need hundreds of acres or tons of money to get started.

In fact, you can begin right now within your own four walls because to acquire a homesteading mentality, there are many homesteading skills that don't require any land at all. Don't let your current circumstances hold you back. Instead, let me inspire, encourage, and motivate you by sharing my 6 beginner-friendly homesteading skills and projects that you can do right now, even in the city. 

1. Embrace Container Gardening 

No matter how cozy your living space is, there’s always a little bit of room for some pots or window boxes filled with fresh herbs, veggies, or even dwarf fruit trees. Container gardening is a great way to grow your own food, even in the smallest of spaces. Do some research to find the best plants for your area, make sure they get plenty of sunlight and have fun watching your little garden grow as you connect with nature. We have embraced the Greenstalk planters, and I absolutely love them.

2. Start Indoor Gardening 

An indoor garden is a fantastic way to bring a little bit of nature into your home, even if you don't have a lot of outdoor space. Growing your own herbs, veggies, and flowers indoors is not only beautiful, but it also gives you a sense of independence and sustainability. Plus, it's a great way to connect with the natural world and take control of your own food production. Thanks to technology like grow lights and hydroponic systems, indoor gardening has never been easier or more accessible. Besides, the perks of indoor gardening are endless. 

3. Preserve the Season’s Harvest 

One of my favorites is preserving the season's harvest. Maybe it’s because I grew up always having home-canned preserves, hot peppers, pickles, or watermelon rind in the pantry (shout out to Aunt Edith), but I have fallen in love with this tradition and skill. The joy I have seeing something I grew, harvested, preserved, and now stored away to nurture my family is indescribable. Even if you don’t grow it yourself, sourcing locally is an amazing healthy alternative. Not only do you support your local farmers and communities, but it feels good to see where every ingredient comes from, and you’ll know exactly what was put into every jar. 

4. Get Crafty and Do Some DIY Projects

If you don't already know, I love a good DIY, and homesteading involves so many. From making your own soap and candles to building bee boxes or creating vertical gardens, there is always something unique and crafty you can do on the homestead or to pass the time while you prepare for one. Try your hand at making some homemade cleaners and beauty products, or learn a new skill like crocheting or sewing. Engaging in these activities will not only save you money but they’ll also bring you closer to the homesteading lifestyle you dream of.

5. Educate Yourself

Knowledge is power, and in the realm of homesteading, it is essential. Educate yourself through books, online resources, or by connecting with established homesteaders in your area. Attending workshops, seminars, or webinars that teach skills relevant to your homesteading goals is by far the best way to learn, especially for a busy mama. Be sure to focus on one topic at a time to not overwhelm yourself. As a homesteader or homestead dreamer, you are continuously learning, and you'll gain confidence and clarity as you progress in your journey. The most rewarding part is having the ability to pass these skills on from one generation to the next, and there is nothing more beautiful, rewarding, and powerful than that. 

6. Connect with Community  

While living in an apartment or city may lack physical space, it provides a unique opportunity to connect with a diverse group of like-minded individuals. Search your area and find local gardening, sustainability, and self-reliance clubs, join online communities, or attend meetups centered around homesteading and specific hobbies/skills. Connecting with a community of people who share your dreams will provide support, inspiration, and the chance to learn from others' experiences. 

Homesteading is not reserved for those with vast lands and deep pockets. Regardless of your living situation, there are countless ways to incorporate elements of the homesteading lifestyle into your everyday life. Embrace container gardening, develop micro-homesteading systems, explore DIY projects, educate yourself, and connect with others who share your dreams. Remember, passion and determination shape your homesteading journey, regardless of where you currently reside. Start today and create your own sustainable haven and, step by step, turn your homestead dreams into a reality.