Rhythms of the Seasons on the Homestead
Welcome back to Simply Living Homestead! I’m Amanda Carlin, and today we’re diving into seasonal rhythms on the homestead. Learning to work with the natural cycles of the land instead of against them can bring so much peace and productivity to your life. Let’s explore how each season presents its own unique opportunities and challenges, and how we can embrace them fully.
Key Points:
The Importance of Seasonal Rhythms: Homesteading is deeply connected to the cycles of nature. When we recognize these rhythms and plan accordingly, we reduce stress and create space for meaningful work. Ecclesiastes 3:1 reminds us, “For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven.” God created these cycles, and we can find peace in working with them rather than forcing our own timelines.
Spring - New Beginnings: Spring is a season of renewal, growth, and preparation. It’s when we shake off the cold of winter and start preparing for the busy months ahead. Here are some key tasks for spring:
Planting: This is the time to prepare garden beds, start seeds, and plant early crops.
Calving & Birthing: Many animals give birth in spring, so it’s essential to be ready with supplies and shelter.
Spring Cleaning: Winter often leaves behind clutter, so tidying up the barn, fields, and home is a must.
Equipment Prep: From tractors to tillers, making sure everything is in working order ensures a smooth season.
Summer - Growth and Maintenance: With the longer days and warmer weather, summer is a time for hard work and maintenance. This is when everything is in full swing:
Fence Building & Repairs: It’s easier to work with materials in the warmth of summer.
Garden Care & Early Harvests: Weeding, watering, and beginning the harvest of early crops like radishes, lettuce, and beans.
Major Repairs: Barns, coops, and equipment get the attention they need while the weather is favorable.
Fall - The Big Harvest: Fall is one of the busiest seasons on the homestead, as we bring in the fruits of our labor:
Harvest Time: Green beans, corn, pumpkins, and more are ready to be preserved.
Canning & Freezing: This is when we prepare food storage for the winter months.
Winter Prep: Stocking up on hay, securing shelters, and making sure everything is ready for the colder months ahead.
Winter - Rest and Planning: Winter is a slower season, but it’s still important:
Animal Care: Keeping livestock warm and well-fed takes priority.
Planning for the Next Year: Ordering seeds, setting goals, and reflecting on the past year’s successes and lessons.
Indoor Projects: Soap making, learning new skills, and working on home projects that got put on hold.
Trusting the Process: One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that everything happens in its time. If we don’t get something done this year, there’s always next year—so long as the Lord allows. Homesteading isn’t about perfection; it’s about working with the land, learning from experience, and trusting in God’s timing.
Resources:
Are you ready to align your homestead with the natural rhythms of the seasons? Let me know how you embrace seasonal changes on your farm!
Email me at connect@SimplyLivingHomestead.com—I’d love to hear from you!
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Until next time, happy homesteading!
