Do you long for green acres but have a penthouse view? No problem. Many city slickers have discovered ways to live a self-reliant lifestyle even while keeping up with the Jones’. By learning a few new skills you can feel like a homesteader, reap the benefits of a healthier lifestyle, and actually produce products with pride.
Gardening
You need not have a field, tractor, and plow, to grow a few vegetables. Nearly anyone can grow something. Garden beds can be anything from an attractive raised bed in the backyard, bordered by flowers, to a sunny windowsill in an apartment. Container gardens, another popular option, can be grown on a patio, and grow lights make it possible to grow where you have never grown before. Even nurturing a few herbs for cooking, or medicinal use, can quench the thirst for creating something homegrown.
Bread
Any homestead is enhanced by the smell of freshly baked bread, not to mention a delightful addition to the supper table, and you need not live in the country or on a farm to make fresh bread a regular part of your lifestyle. One only needs a few basic ingredients, a good oven, and a little time. Even a good bread machine can work wonders.
Cheese
Making a good homemade cheese can be a bit of a challenge, but can also add to the pride of producing your own food. There are many companies available online that sells cheese-making supplies, and recipes are plentiful. It is a good idea to start out with a soft cheese, or even a 30-minute mozzarella, to learn the basics, and then take it from there. Be aware that a lot of store bought milk has been overly pasteurized and may not be suitable for making cheese. However, it is not impossible to find milk that will work.
Chickens
While you may not be able to have a herd of cattle in your suburban backyard, many communities now allow a few chickens. It is important to check with your city officials before buying your birds since there might be restrictions. Many cities will allow hens but not a rooster. Fortunately, you do not need a rooster to have fresh eggs. Also, don’t forget to check with your neighbors who may not be in the homesteading frame of mind. Offering to share your bounty sometimes goes a long way with a reluctant neighbor.
There are many ways you can create a homesteading lifestyle regardless of where you live. As you learn a few basic skills you may find yourself wanting to learn more and that’s okay. You can easily learn anything from spinning yarn to making butter. It’s all about self-sufficiency and learning to rely on your own two hands for basic necessities. Use your imagination, research, and get creative.