The Lazy Daisy Homestead

06/22/2025

Complacency Kills.

Hard lesson today on the farm.

We lost two of our baby rabbits because of a fence we knew was damaged by one of the goats. We saw it. We talked about fixing it. But we said what so many of us say: "It’s good enough… for now.”

It wasn’t.

And now we’re left with heartache and a hard truth:

Complacency can cost lives—even the small, innocent ones.

This hit deeper than just the fence or the animals.

It made me think… how many areas in our lives do we leave “good enough”?

A strained relationship. A damaging habit. A small voice of conviction we keep ignoring.

If we don’t fix what’s broken, we eventually pay for it. Maybe not right away, but life always circles back.

So whatever fence you’ve been walking past… whatever area you’ve been putting off… fix it. Strengthen it. Don’t wait until the damage can’t be undone.

We learned the hard way today.

12/08/2024

It's interesting how some people claim they can't afford to eat healthily but often spend money on non-essential items.

Eating healthy doesn't have to be outrageously expensive—it just takes some smart choices.

That said, we all know it can still be pricey and time-consuming either way, and we’re guilty of choosing convenience ourselves sometimes. It’s a challenge, but balance is key.

12/08/2024

Winter on the Homestead: Feeding the Flock and Herd

As the temperatures drop, life on the homestead changes dramatically—especially when it comes to feeding our animals. Did you know animals eat significantly more during the winter months? It’s a vital adaptation for survival, and as caretakers, it’s our responsibility to meet their increased needs.

In the colder months, animals burn more calories just to stay warm. Chickens, goats, cows, and other livestock require extra feed to maintain their body heat and energy levels. For us, this means stocking up on hay, grain, and other feed supplies before the snow starts falling.

Winter also means the natural food sources they rely on during warmer months—like grass, bugs, and forage—are no longer available. This puts the full weight of their nutrition on our shoulders. For example:

A cow can go from needing 30-40 pounds of hay a day to 50+ pounds in freezing weather.

Chickens need extra scratch or grain to help them keep warm and keep laying eggs.

Goats demand more forage or supplemental feed to maintain their body heat and overall health.

Planning ahead is critical. Winter doesn’t just impact the animals; it impacts us too. We’re hauling heavier feed buckets and breaking more ice in water troughs than ever, but the rewards are worth it: healthy animals and the knowledge that we’re providing for them as they provide for us.

Homesteaders, how do you prepare for the increased feed needs in the winter? Drop your tips below!

11/25/2024

Life on the homestead: where the chickens rule the roost—and the porch!

We gave it a good wash this afternoon, but as soon as we turned our backs, the chickens couldn’t wait to hop back up and start making a mess again. They’ve claimed the porch as their own, and honestly, we wouldn’t have it any other way.

Freeranging means healthier, happier birds—and a few porch visits are a small price to pay for the fresh eggs, natural pest control, and endless entertainment they bring.

11/02/2024

Time goes back this weekend!!

08/16/2024

Keeping up with a garden while juggling our jobs, family, and sick animal isn't easy! But even when life gets busy, and the garden isn't perfect, Mother Nature still rewards our efforts.

The first harvest from our garden might not be huge, but it's something. That "something" is worth celebrating. It’s a reminder that even a little bit of work can lead to something wonderful. There's no better feeling than seeing those first fruits (or veggies in our case) of our labor. 🥒🍅 🫛

Our shortcomings this year are lessons in disguise, guiding us toward a better garden next year. Every challenge faced this season will help us grow stronger and smarter for the next. If you put in the effort, nature will provide. Here's to learning, growing, and harvesting more to come! 🌻

08/06/2024

😂

LET ME GET HOME TO MY CHICKENS.

07/08/2024

🌱 Rethinking Lawns: A Sustainable Homestead 🌱

As a private homeowner, maintaining a traditional lawn can be costly and environmentally unfriendly. High water usage, chemical pollution, and constant maintenance add up quickly. Plus, lawns offer limited functionality and do little to support local ecosystems.

Why not try something new? Here are some homesteading ideas:

1. **Edible Gardens**: Grow your own vegetables, fruits, and herbs for fresh, homegrown produce.
2. **Native Plants**: Use local species that need less water and upkeep, and support local wildlife.
3. **Permaculture**: Create a sustainable and self-sufficient landscape with permaculture principles.
4. **Xeriscaping**: Design a drought-resistant garden with low-water plants to conserve water.
5. **Pollinator Gardens**: Plant flowers that attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators to boost biodiversity.

Transform your yard into a sustainable, productive, and beautiful space! 🌿🌸🍅

07/02/2024

Build bigger tables not taller fences.

06/20/2024