Fall is upon us here on the homestead.  Winter is quickly following in its’ footsteps and I am relieved to say that I am finally in good health. The changing of seasons on the homestead has begun.

A Rough Fall

My fall season is the hardest I have ever had, and that includes two pregnancies previously.  From the end of August up until the start of November I have been forced by my health to realize that I cannot do everything when I want to.

The sad part of that statement is that I am only 30.  Pneumonia, bronchitis, hospitalization and a nasal surgery later I am feeling better than I have in ages. And so thankful to be able to breath better.

Garden Tasks in the Fall

The change of seasons on the homestead is such a busy time.

First you must get through canning and clearing out the garden.  Sadly, only part of my garden was cleared this fall.  I was able to push myself to complete the majority of my canning.

I will admit I still have a few tomatoes and a bunch of concord grapes that await their turn to be put into jars.  For now, the freezer will keep them nicely.

Preparing for Winter

We also have animals butchered in the fall.  I would love to butcher and process our own pigs right here on the farm but Sir Swine is always so busy and I do not know how to do it myself.

I personally feel that youtube videos are not the place to start when processing a 250-300lb animal that you plan to eat. If you know of a great resource please comment on it below.

I am a bit of a worry wart when it comes to safe food handling.

We now have our quarter of a beef and a whole hog waiting for their turn to be eaten.  I am reminded as Thanksgiving approaches that life is good and we should be thankful for all that we have.

Beauty In the Change of Seasons on the Homestead

Here on the homestead we had our first snowfall of the season.  It did not last long and has quickly melted away but the cold has decided to stay.

I’m disappointed that I was not able to get everything done that I had planned to but I am prepared to move into the next season of the year.

I look forward to some cold winter months, curled up with a book and my boys. Dinner still served from our garden abundance. I love opening those jars, its like summer in a jar.

I wish you all a safe and happy Thanksgiving.   May you be reminded that there is much in your life to be thankful for.  Good health, warm homes, plenty of food to eat.  There are many that do not have such blessings in their lives.

Be thankful for those small things.

Happy Thanksgiving and happy homesteading.