Hearth and Homesteading
Not all social media and lifestyle fads are positive, but we are loving this trend that has recently made its way back into mainstream culture: homesteading.
Homesteading is a lifestyle characterized by self-sufficiency. It usually involves some form of agriculture, textile making, and preservation. We say “made its way back” because homesteading used to be the standard way of life for most people. And as we see from countless social media users today who are getting back into this practice, it is extremely gratifying to grow your own food, make your own improvements on your home and land, and use your hands to create beautiful things.
Don’t get us wrong, we are all for the conveniences of modern living, and most of us would struggle to give them up completely. However, we do believe it would be beneficial for all of us to learn how to better care for our homes from our homes.
We are all called to use the gifts God has given us and to be good stewards of the earth. Practically, this could mean many different things. It could be planting some fruits and vegetables in the garden, learning how to make fresh bread, or raising animals. It could be adopting a new mindset on how to use our possessions in more positive, productive ways. It could even be completing a DIY project in your home from start to finish. Whatever it looks like, we believe that hard work and gratitude to God will only bring more joy and life into the home.
As we approach the summer, a season of growth and abundance, let’s reflect on how we can better appreciate the gifts and abilities that we have and push ourselves to learn new ways to glorify God in the way we live our lives!
Check out the Events section on our website for upcoming opportunities to gain new skills, and learn more about the types of seminars we offer by exploring our Seminar Blueprints.
4 Canning Tips for
Spring and Summer
One way to preserve the beautiful foods of spring and summer is by canning them. Read on for some of our top canning tips as well as a bonus tip on how to preserve fresh herbs!
Follow Approved Recipes:
Stick to tested and approved canning recipes from reliable sources such as the National Center for Home Food Preservation, Ball Canning, and reputable cookbooks on canning. Follow the recipes and instructions carefully to ensure safe processing and preservation of your food.2. Practice Safe Food Handling:
Prioritize food safety by handling ingredients properly.
Make sure to wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly and maintain clean and sanitized work surfaces and utensils. Avoid cross-contamination by keeping raw and cooked foods separate during preparation.
Process Foods Correctly:
Follow the recommended processing method (water bath canning or pressure canning) for the specific type of food you're canning. Water bath canning is suitable for high-acid foods like fruits, jams, and pickles, while low-acid foods like vegetables, meats, and soups require pressure canning to ensure safe preservation.
Practice Safe Sealing Techniques:
Ensure jars are properly sealed by using new, undamaged lids and bands, and following the manufacturer's instructions for preparing and applying them. After processing, allow jars to cool undisturbed on a clean, dry surface. Test the seals by pressing down on the center of each lid; if it's firm and doesn't flex, the jar is sealed properly. Any unsealed jars should be refrigerated and consumed promptly.
BONUS TIP: Preserve Fresh Herbs with this Hack!
Chop your fresh herbs finely, then place them into ice cube trays, filling each compartment about halfway. Top off each compartment with olive oil or melted coconut oil, then freeze. Once frozen, transfer the herb oil cubes to a labeled freezer bag for easy use in cooking.
Family Dinners Matter Seminar in New York
One great way to become more self-sufficient and sustainable is by making meals at home. Making beautiful, fresh dinners is not only great for physical wellness; it also has the power to bring your family together- something that is far more impactful than you may realize!
Home Unlimited New York recently got together for a seminar called “Family Dinners Matter,” where they discussed the importance of coming together as a family for meals despite busy schedules. Participants learned helpful meal planning and scheduling techniques to help make family dinners a reality in their homes, as well as menu hacks from a certified nutritionist!
Enjoy these photos from the seminar, and check out the Seminar Blueprint here!
To learn more about this topic, check out the article, “Share the Table: Benefits of the Family Dinner for Parents and Children.”
Upcoming Event: The Well Stocked & Well Organized Kitchen: Session 1
Calling all Illinois ladies! If you are struggling to maintain a beautiful and organized kitchen, this seminar is for you. In The Well Stocked & Well Organized Kitchen: Session 1, professional and renowned designer Colleen Billing will share how to bring both form and function to this space.
The seminar will be held on Monday, June 17, 2024 from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM. For more information, contact Kristin Kocan at kristin@kocan.org.
