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Organic Sourdough Starter
Sourdough Starter Guide
Sourdough Starter Kit

Sourdough Workshops
Vintage Fabric Jar Cover
Reusable Bento Bread Bag
Reversible Bakers Apron

Welcome to Wild Bluebell Homestead, your inviting friendly space in the mountains of Fraser Valley British Columbia Canada. We’re much more than a handmade craft shop; we are an inclusive welcoming hub for homesteading enthusiasts, crafters, farmers, and local artisans. Browse our website to access a wealth of resources and connect with fellow homesteaders through our blog. Explore our artisanal small-batch range of products including organic dehydrated active sourdough starters, comprehensive sourdough starter guide downloads, and complete sourdough starter kits. Enhance your home baking projects with our sourdough bakers apron, discover our charming repurposed vintage fabric jar covers, and explore ecofriendly options like our upcycled reusable bento bags. For more details about our local sustainably made products, feel free to reach out via email or phone above. Stay connected by subscribing to our email newsletter and joining our supportive and inclusive community on Instagram and Pinterest. Thank you for stopping by Wild Bluebell Homestead; we look forward to getting to know you better.ā¤ļø

Sourdough Starter

buy dehydrated organic sourdough bread starter culture online in canada from wild bluebell homestead

Sourdough Starter GUIDE

wild bluebell sourdough starter guide

SOURDOUGH STARTER KIT

VINTAGE JAR COVER

wild bluebell vintage jar cover

REUSABLE BREAD BAG

wild bluebell reusable bento bag

REVERSIBLE BAKERS APRON

wild bluebell sourdough bakers apron

RECENT BLOG POSTS

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wild bluebell flower and sourdough bread vintage wallpaper pattern

Wild Bluebell Sourdough Workshops

Wild Bluebell Sourdough Workshops offer a deeply personalized, hands-on learning experience tailored to your unique needs, skill level, and goals. Whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to refine your sourdough skills, our workshops will guide you through the art…

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facts about homesteading

25 Quirky, Random, and Weird Homesteading Facts

Homesteading may evoke images of rustic farms, rural off-grid living, chickens clucking in the yard, and rows of homegrown vegetables. But dig a little deeper, and youā€™ll discover that this lifestyle is filled with surprising, random, and downright quirky facts….

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Sourdough Discard Scones Recipe

Sourdough Discard Scones Recipe

If you’re a sourdough enthusiast, chances are youā€™re well-acquainted with the dilemma of sourdough discard. Itā€™s the part of the starter you remove before feeding it to maintain its potency. While some see it as a mere byproduct to be…

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Homesteading, in the context of Canada and the United States, has historical roots that trace back to the frontier days when both countries were expanding westward. Government policies in both nations were crafted to encourage the settlement and development of expansive and often wild territories.

United States Historical Context

In the United States, the Homestead Act of 1862 is perhaps the most iconic piece of legislation associated with homesteading. It allowed American citizens, and intended citizens, to claim 160-acre parcels of undeveloped federal land west of the Mississippi River. The claimant was required to "improve" the land by building a dwelling and cultivating the soil. After five years of continuous residence, the homesteader could claim ownership of the land. This act played a crucial role in the westward expansion and development of the American frontier.

Canadian Historical Context

Canada had a similar system, known as the Dominion Lands Act of 1872, designed to encourage settlement in the Canadian prairies. It offered 160 acres of land for a small registration fee. The settler, or "homesteader," was required to cultivate a portion of the land and build a permanent dwelling within three years to gain ownership.

Modern Homesteading in North America

Today, the term "homesteading" in Canada and the United States refers to a lifestyle that emphasizes self-sufficiency and sustainability, rather than the act of claiming free land. Modern homesteaders may draw upon the pioneering spirit of their ancestors, applying it to contemporary challenges such as sustainable living and food security.

Key elements of modern homesteading in North America include:

  • Sustainable Agriculture: Many North American homesteaders focus on organic farming, heirloom crop cultivation, and heritage livestock breeds. The practice of permaculture is also becoming a cornerstone of modern homesteading.
  • Renewable Energy: Utilizing renewable energy, such as solar panels, wind turbines, or micro-hydro systems, is common among homesteaders, reducing their reliance on the grid and decreasing their environmental impact.
  • Do-It-Yourself (DIY) Ethos: Homesteaders often embody a strong DIY ethic, building their own homes, creating water systems, and repairing machinery to maintain independence and self-reliance.
  • Economic Sustainability: North American homesteaders often seek ways to make their lifestyle economically viable, such as selling homemade goods, managing farm-to-table operations, or engaging in agritourism.
  • Community Engagement: Despite the emphasis on independence, homesteading communities are known for their spirit of cooperation and shared knowledge. In both Canada and the U.S., there is a strong network of homesteaders who trade goods, share advice, and support one another.
  • Environmental Stewardship: Responsible management of resources and a commitment to conservation are often at the heart of homesteading practices. This includes protecting wildlife habitats, practicing soil conservation, and ensuring the purity of water sources.

Challenges and Legal Considerations

Homesteading in the modern context does come with its challenges. Zoning laws, building codes, and agricultural regulations can all impact the ability of individuals to pursue a homesteading lifestyle. In some regions, these laws are evolving to become more supportive of small-scale, sustainable agriculture and eco-friendly building practices.

For those interested in homesteading in Canada or the United States today, it is often a matter of purchasing land and developing it according to homesteading principles, rather than taking advantage of government land grants as in the past. The cost and availability of suitable land can be significant hurdles for new homesteaders.

Cultural Resurgence

There has been a resurgence in the homesteading movement in recent years, with many people seeking a closer connection to the land, a desire for a simpler life, or concerns about the environment and food security. Homesteading blogs, books, and TV shows have grown in popularity, and the movement has a significant online presence where enthusiasts share their experiences and knowledge.

In summary, modern homesteading in Canada and the United States is about embracing the self-sufficiency and pioneering spirit of historical homesteading within the contemporary context. It's about cultivating a life that is both self-reliant and in harmony with the environment, while also navigating and respecting the legal frameworks of modern society.

At Wild Bluebell Homestead, we understand and advocate for the myriad benefits that homesteading provides, not only to individual homesteaders and their families but also to the wider community. Our website is a testament to the holistic advantages that come with this lifestyle, celebrating the achievements and sharing the wisdom gleaned from living in close harmony with the land. We are committed to highlighting and supporting these benefits, ensuring that the knowledge and joy of homesteading are accessible to all.

Health and Nutrition: Sowing Seeds of Wellness

We believe that the health of our bodies is intrinsically linked to the health of our environment. By growing organic produce and raising animals with the utmost care, homesteaders on Wild Bluebell Homestead reap the benefits of nutrient-rich food while respecting the land. Our website is a resource for those looking to enhance their diet and well-being through gardening tips, wholesome recipes, and insights into sustainable animal husbandry, showcasing the direct connection between the food we grow, the food we eat, and our overall health.

Food Security: Cultivating Confidence and Consistency

Amidst uncertain times, the ability to sustain oneself independently is invaluable. Homesteading offers a buffer against supply chain disruptions by promoting practices such as seasonal food preservation and storage. Through our website, we share our expertise in methods that ensure year-round food availability, from canning and pickling to root cellaring, providing peace of mind and a sense of accomplishment.

Sustainability and Environmental Stewardship: Living Lightly on the Land

Reducing our ecological footprint is paramount. At Wild Bluebell Homestead, we champion sustainable livingā€”minimizing waste, conserving water, and using renewable energy sources. We document our stewardship efforts, demonstrating how such practices not only benefit the environment but also strengthen the resilience and self-sufficiency of our homesteads.

Financial Benefits: The Economies of the Earth

Homesteading goes hand in hand with economic wisdom. We find joy in sharing how our own efforts to grow and craft have translated into tangible savings and diversified income. From reducing grocery bills to engaging in local markets, Wild Bluebell Homestead provides inspiration and guidance for others to find financial freedom on their own slice of land.

Education and Skill Development: A Legacy of Learning

Through homesteading, we commit to a lifetime of learning and skill-building. Our experiencesā€”documented on our websiteā€”offer a treasure trove of knowledge, from building chicken coops to mastering food fermentation. Moreover, homesteading offers a unique, hands-on educational experience for children, imparting invaluable lessons on nature, science, and self-reliance.

Mental Health and Well-being: Harmony in Homesteading

The therapeutic effects of homesteading on mental health cannot be overstated. Wild Bluebell Homestead serves as a platform to explore the profound sense of tranquility and purpose that comes from working with the land. Our narratives aim to inspire others to find their own peace and sense of accomplishment through homesteading.

Community and Relationships: Forging Bonds through Bounty

Homesteading naturally fosters community spirit through sharing, trading, and collaborating with neighbors. We at Wild Bluebell Homestead celebrate this interconnectedness, highlighting how homesteading initiatives can lead to robust community ties and enriched relationships.

Independence and Self-Empowerment: Crafting a Life of Choice

Homesteading embodies the spirit of independence and empowerment. Our stories and resources aim to empower others to take control of their lives, make conscious decisions, and live by their values. This lifestyle cultivates the resilience and creativity necessary to adapt to life's challenges, leading to profound personal growth.

Cultural and Historical Connection: Honoring Heritage

Homesteading allows us to connect with our cultural roots, preserving traditional skills and knowledge. Wild Bluebell Homestead recognizes the importance of this heritage, offering content that honors historical practices while adapting them to modern-day contexts.

Biodiversity and Natural Habitat Preservation: Nurturing Nature

Our homesteading practices promote the protection of natural habitats and biodiversity. We share how our land serves as a sanctuary for wildlife, and how seed saving ensures the perpetuation of heirloom varieties, contributing to a healthier ecosystem.

At Wild Bluebell Homestead, we are dedicated to illuminating the myriad benefits of homesteadingā€”benefits that touch on every aspect of living. Our commitment is to foster a community that thrives on self-sufficiency, sustainability, and solidarity, offering a guiding light to all who wish to embark on this enriching journey with us. Through our shared experiences, we continue to support and grow with our readers, ensuring that the wisdom of the homestead enriches lives far beyond our own.

At Wild Bluebell Homestead, we not only cultivate the land but also strive to nurture the rich history and vibrant culture that homesteading embodies. From the rolling prairies of Canada to the sprawling heartlands of the United States, homesteading stitches a diverse narrative of resilience, stewardship, and community. Let's delve into the tapestry of homesteading, unraveling its origins, history, cultural significance, and the distinct yet interconnected threads that weave together the Canadian and American experiences.

Roots and Resilience: The Origins of Homesteading

The concept of homesteading is deeply ingrained in the pioneer ethos of North America. In both the United States and Canada, the latter half of the 19th century was marked by ambitious land laws ā€” the Homestead Act of 1862 in the U.S. and the Dominion Lands Act of 1872 in Canada. These laws opened up vast swathes of land for private ownership at little to no cost, provided settlers were willing to cultivate and improve upon the land.

In the United States, this movement helped to shape the nation's westward expansion, giving rise to a rugged culture of individualism and agrarian independence. As pioneers settled the challenging terrains, from the Mississippi's fertile banks to the Rocky Mountains' daunting peaks, they established a deeply rooted sense of American identity ā€” one married to the land and the liberty it promised.

Canada's narrative, while similar, unfolded on the prairies and stretched across a landscape that promised both bounty and isolation. The Canadian government's objective was not just to cultivate land but to assert sovereignty and create a buffer against American expansion. Canadian homesteading was characterized by a spirit of communal effort and resilience in the face of harsh weather and vast distances, elements that crafted a unique national character.

From Survival to Sustainability: The Evolution of Homesteading

As time marched into the 20th century, the era of government-allocated homesteading waned, but the essence of homesteading ā€” self-sufficiency, land stewardship, and a do-it-yourself mentality ā€” thrived. Today, homesteading has evolved into a lifestyle choice rather than a necessity, with modern homesteaders in both countries embracing sustainable practices and innovative technologies to lead lives that are both independent and integrated with nature.

Cultural Cultivation: Homesteading as a Way of Life

Homesteading today transcends the act of farming. It is a cultural movement that values simplicity, environmental stewardship, and a slower pace of life. In the bustling information age, both Canadian and American homesteaders seek a return to hands-on skills and a connection to the rhythms of the natural world. This cultural resurgence is punctuated by a robust community that shares knowledge on organic gardening, heritage livestock breeding, renewable energy, and more through digital platforms and local gatherings.

Regional Rhythms: The Local Flavors of Homesteading

While the ethos of homesteading is shared, regional differences give it a unique flavor in various parts of Canada and the United States. In the maple-crowned hills of Quebec, homesteaders might tap trees for syrup, while in the sun-drenched valleys of California, they cultivate vineyards and citrus groves. These local practices are informed by the land's character, climate, and the heritage of the people who till its soil.

Challenges and Triumphs: The Homesteader's Journey

Modern homesteaders face a different set of challenges compared to their historical counterparts. Land acquisition is no longer driven by government grants but by market forces, making access to suitable land a significant hurdle. Moreover, modern homesteaders navigate a labyrinth of zoning laws and regulations, balancing their pastoral dreams with the practicalities of 21st-century life.

Yet, the triumphs of homesteading are many. Homesteaders today have rekindled an intimate connection with the source of their food, the energy that powers their lives, and the natural cycles that dictate the passage of seasons. This lifestyle fosters a deep sense of well-being, community, and personal fulfillment that many find lacking in urban settings.

The Homesteading Heart: Our Mission at Wild Bluebell

At Wild Bluebell Homestead, we are a vibrant hub of education, craftsmanship, and community spirit. Our mission is to educate those drawn to the homesteading lifestyle, celebrating and sustaining traditional crafts through our unique, handmade products, and highlighting the talents within our community. We are committed to:

  • Educating About Homesteading: Empowering and inspiring through sharing knowledge on sustainable living and self-sufficiency.
  • Creating and Selling Handmade Craft Products: Offering crafts imbued with the skill and care of our artisans, reflecting the bounty and beauty of our homestead.
  • Supporting and Highlighting Our Amazing Community: Building a robust network of mutual aid, celebrating the stories and successes of our members.

At Wild Bluebell Homestead, we are not just a backdrop to nature's splendour but an active participant in the craft and culture of a sustainable lifestyle. Our homestead breathes life into raw, organic materials, transforming them into a cornucopia of handcrafted wonders. Each product is a labour of love and a piece of heritage, designed to bring the purity of our environment directly into your home.

Craftsmanship at Its Finest: Our Organic and Artisanal Collection

  • Organic Sourdough Starter: Begin your baking adventure with our organic sourdough starter, nurtured with the finest organic flour and filtered water, ready to create rich, flavorful loaves.
  • Sourdough Starter Guide: Accompanying our sourdough starter, this guide is filled with tips and recipes to help you perfect the art of traditional sourdough baking.
  • Sourdough Starter Kit: Everything you need to kickstart your sourdough journey, including our organic starter, a guide, and essential tools, all in one convenient package.
  • Vintage Fabric Jar Cover: These elegantly designed jar covers are made from vintage fabric, blending sustainability with classic charm to enhance your kitchen aesthetics.
  • Reusable Bento Bag: Carry your meals in style with our eco-friendly bento bags, crafted from durable, vintage fabrics, perfect for sustainable living on the go.
  • Reversible Bakers Apron: A versatile addition to any bakerā€™s wardrobe, our apron is reversible and made from high-quality, sustainable materials, combining functionality with fashion.

Cultivating Connections: The Impact of Your Support

  • Nourishing Community Roots: Choosing Wild Bluebell Homestead's products fosters a deep connection with the community, strengthening local livelihoods and ensuring the preservation of artisanal skills that might otherwise be lost in the rush of modernity.
  • Promoting Environmental Integrity: Our commitment to organic and locally sourced materials minimizes our ecological footprint. From the field to your home, the journey of our products is a reflection of responsible stewardship and sustainable living.
  • Bolstering Economic Sustainability: Your support helps maintain a vibrant local economy, empowering small businesses, and creating a market that values the health of consumers and the planet over industrial efficiency.
  • Extending Beyond the Marketplace: The choice to support local artisans reaches beyond the economic; it is a choice for a lifestyle that honours the narrative behind each product, the human touch in its creation, and the collective well being of our society.

Joining the Wild Bluebell Family

By welcoming Wild Bluebell Homestead into your life, you're not just purchasing a product; you're embracing a story, a community, and a way of life. We invite you to experience the authenticity and utility of our diverse product rangeā€”from the foundational elements of sourdough baking to the practical elegance of our kitchen accessories.

Together, let's celebrate the art of the handmade, the joy of organic living, and the strength of community bonds. Wild Bluebell Homestead is more than a placeā€”it's a movement toward a future where every choice and every product is a building block for a healthier, happier world.

At Wild Bluebell Homestead, our community is built on a foundation of support, kindness, and a genuine openness to all. Here, we embrace each person with warmth and understanding, fostering an environment where everyone can find a sense of belonging and inspiration.

Welcoming: Open Arms and Open Hearts

Our homestead is a sanctuary where everyone, regardless of their background or experience in homesteading, is welcomed with open arms. Wild Bluebell Homestead is a place to call home, where diversity is celebrated and each new perspective is cherished.

Supportive: A Pillar of Strength

Our ethos of support is fundamental. We provide a supportive network for both seasoned homesteaders and newcomers, offering assistance and encouragement. This pillar of strength is evident in our daily interactions and collective pursuit of a sustainable lifestyle.

Kindness: The Heart of Our Community

Kindness is at the core of everything we do. It influences how we craft our products, care for our land, and interact with each member of our community. Through acts of kindness, we plant the seeds for a more compassionate world, beginning right in our own backyard.

Good Listeners: Valuing Every Voice

At Wild Bluebell, listening goes beyond hearingā€”it's about understanding and valuing the stories and experiences shared. Attentive listening helps us forge deeper connections and ensures that everyone feels heard and appreciated.

Uplifting and Sincere: Find Your People

Joining our community is an uplifting experience. Here, you'll find like-minded individuals who share a love for nature, a passion for craftsmanship, and a commitment to authenticity. Our community is sincere, and the connections made here are genuine and heartfelt.

An Invitation: Share Your Story

We believe that everyone has a unique story to tell, and we want to hear yours. By sharing your journey and experiences, you enrich our collective experience and inspire others in the homesteading way of life.

Wild Bluebell Homestead isn't just a placeā€”it's a vibrant community where support, kindness, and welcoming are a way of life. We invite you to join us, share in our journey, and help cultivate a space where everyone can thrive.

At Wild Bluebell Homestead, our dedication to organic, natural, and sustainable living is deeply ingrained in everything we do. It's not just a way of life; it's a commitment that influences our family, our products, and our community. We believe in nurturing both the land and our bodies with respect and care, embodying these principles through our exclusive sourdough-focused products.

Why sourdough? Because it perfectly captures the essence of our philosophy. Sourdough baking is not merely about creating breadā€”it's a holistic approach to food that emphasizes patience, natural processes, and the joy of crafting something with your own hands. At Wild Bluebell Homestead, we feed our family with these principles, prioritizing slow food preparation and organic ingredients. This lifestyle allows us to savor each moment of our food production process as a family, strengthening our bonds and deepening our connection to the earth.

Our offerings, including the organic sourdough starter, sourdough starter guide, and sourdough starter kit, are designed to empower others to embrace this fulfilling practice. These products are born from a cycle of life that respects the limits of what the earth can provide, adhering to our mantra of taking only what we need and leaving minimal footprints behind.

We extend this sustainable mindset to our other products as well. The vintage fabric jar cover and reusable bento bread bag encourage reducing waste, and the reversible bakers apron serves both utility and style with sustainable repurposed materials. Each product not only supports sustainable practices but also promotes a connection to the natural joy of living a life tethered closely to the earthā€™s rhythms.

At Wild Bluebell Homestead, we believe in the power of eating and living organically. We cultivate our own fruits, vegetables, and herbs, and channel this vibrancy into our sourdough products. Our approach isn't just about selling a commodity; it's about sharing a piece of our heart, from our family to yours.

We invite you to join us at Wild Bluebell Homestead in embracing a lifestyle where every choice is intentional, sustainable, and imbued with the purity of nature. Together, we can enjoy the bounty of life, celebrate the rituals of food production, and encourage a community of mindful consumers to tread lightly on our beloved planet.