Homesteading Blog

Welcome to the Wild Bluebell Homestead blog, a haven where nature’s treasures meet the art of sustainable living. Today, we’re venturing into the verdant heart of the Fraser Valley, British Columbia, a region renowned for its lush landscapes and natural bounty. In this corner of the world, where the mountains whisper ancient tales and the forests hold secrets of old, grows a small, vibrant gem — the red huckleberry (Vaccinium parvifolium). This jewel of the Pacific Northwest is not just a berry; it’s a symbol of the rich ecological tapestry and cultural heritage that define our region. Whether you’re a local, from across Canada, or tuning in from around the …

Red Huckleberries: A Taste of British Columbia’s Wild Side READ BLOG POST >

Welcome to another exciting feature on the Wild Bluebell Homestead blog, where we shine a spotlight on the talented crafters and small business owners who make our collective community so vibrant and unique. Today, we’re thrilled to introduce you to Emily, the innovative mind behind Zenful Yoga, a local business that’s making waves with its eco-friendly cork yoga mats. As part of our ongoing series to get to know the artisans and entrepreneurs in our midst, Emily shares her journey, inspirations, and the sustainable ethos that drives Zenful Yoga. Whether you’re a yoga enthusiast or simply passionate about supporting local, eco-conscious businesses, this interview is sure to inspire. Don’t forget …

Buy Zenful Yoga Cork Mats in Vancouver: Sustainable, Comfortable, Durable READ BLOG POST >

Welcome to the heart of Wild Bluebell Homestead, a platform where the art of storytelling meets the dynamic world of digital marketing. If you’re reading this, you’re already part of a community that values authentic narratives and strategic visibility in the bustling digital marketplace. As a business owner, you understand the significance of not just being seen but being remembered. This is where our unique offering comes into play, providing a canvas for your brand’s story to be vividly painted and meaningfully connected with audiences both near and far. Crafting Your Unique Narrative Unearthing the Essence of Your BusinessOur journey with your brand starts with a deep, introspective dive. We …

How to Get Featured on Wild Bluebell Homestead: Elevating Your Business Through Compelling Storytelling READ BLOG POST >

Welcome to the Wild Bluebell Homestead blog, where we explore the delightful world of homestead cooking and preserving. Today, we’re diving into a unique, spicy-sweet treat that’s been captivating taste buds across the country: Cowboy Candy. This delectable delight is not just a treat for the palate but also a fascinating story in the culinary world. What is Cowboy Candy? Cowboy Candy, commonly known as candied jalapeños, is a harmonious blend of spicy jalapeños and a sugary syrup. These bite-sized treats pack a punch of heat tempered by a sweet glaze, creating a perfect balance that tantalizes your taste buds. It’s a versatile condiment that can elevate a variety of …

What Is Cowboy Candy? How-To Make It At Home Recipe Guide READ BLOG POST >

Hello, fellow garden enthusiasts! Today, we’re diving into the enchanting world of Sproutbox Garden’s metal raised garden beds, a true gem nestled in the heart of British Columbia’s Fraser Valley. Here at Wild Bluebell Homestead, we’re thrilled to share this journey with you, unveiling the wonders of these innovative beds. Sproutbox Garden isn’t just a brand; it’s a family-run beacon of creativity and sustainability in gardening. As we walk through their offerings, you’ll see how they’ve turned the simple act of gardening into a testament to environmental consciousness and community spirit. Why Metal Raised Beds? A Sproutbox Garden Specialty Let’s talk about why metal raised beds are the talk of …

Sproutbox Metal Raised Garden Beds READ BLOG POST >

Welcome to the vibrant corner of the Wild Bluebell Homestead, where we cherish the opportunity to shine a light on the local artisans, cultivators, and homesteaders who infuse our community with their unique crafts, skills, and stories. It’s our joy to uplift and support the rich tapestry of talent that surrounds us, and nothing excites us more than learning from the creative and industrious spirits in our midst. Today, we’re thrilled to introduce you to Joey, the heart and soul behind Ocean Crystal Healing, who combines the beauty of crystals with a deep commitment to ethical sourcing and environmental stewardship. Joey, can you tell us about your background, where you …

Ocean Crystal Healing: Malas, Bracelets, and Crystals in Mission BC READ BLOG POST >

In the lush walkways of craft and farmers markets, where the hum of conversation mingles with the earthy scent of fresh produce and the vibrant hues of handmade goods, lies an opportunity for growth that extends well beyond the day’s sales. For Wild Bluebell Homestead and similar havens of local entrepreneurship, these markets are not just sales venues; they are a platform to sow the seeds of long-term business relationships, community presence, and brand recognition. This blog post will explore how vendors can maximize their results and reap the business benefits of attending these markets with a strategic approach to brand identity, customer engagement, and networking. Effective Branding at Your …

10 Essential Strategies for Craft and Farmer Market Vendors: Cultivate, Connect, Convert READ BLOG POST >

Immerse yourself in the essence of Fraser Valley’s artisan brilliance this fall, as Lou Meggiato of Wild Bluebell Homestead unveils a symphony of handcrafted treasures at various coveted craft fairs. In the crisp, inspirational air of autumn, wander through spaces vibrant with local creativity and community warmth. These events are not just markets; they are gatherings of heart, art, and local essence, a place where each product tells a story and each stall sings a song of community and craftsmanship. Hubco Brewery Market Date: 25th October Time: 4pm until 8pm Location: 33211 N Railway Ave, Mission, BC V2V 1E4 Step into the vibrant realm of Hubco Brewery, where creativity and …

2023 Christmas Markets and Local Craft Fairs We Are Attending READ BLOG POST >

Welcome to the latest feature on the Wild Bluebell Homestead website, where we shine a spotlight on local talent, celebrating the passion and craftsmanship of our community’s crafters, farmers, and business owners. Today, we are thrilled to present an enlightening conversation with Tarah Borkristl, the heart and soul behind Conjuring Karma. In this interview, Tarah opens up about her journey, inspirations, and the lovingly crafted products she creates, which bring together the worlds of self-care and spiritual growth. Tarah, can you introduce yourself and tell us about your journey to becoming an artist at Conjuring Karma? Hi, my name is Tarah Borkristl. My journey to Conjuring Karma began with creating …

Conjuring Karma: Abbotsford’s Source for Handcrafted Bath Bombs READ BLOG POST >

Welcome to another delightful feature on the Wild Bluebell blog. Today, we’re plunging into the universe of pickles, but not just any pickles—artisanal, locally sourced, and community-rooted pickles from the creators of “I’m Pickled.” Located in the scenic area of Mission, British Columbia, this business serves up jars full of crunchy, tangy, and delicious pickles that also manage to capture the essence of the local area, from the soil to the seasons. But it’s not just about taste; it’s also about a unique blend of tradition and community that the “I’m Pickled” brand embodies. As we unpack the story of this delectable local business, we’ll also learn about the personal …

Mission BC’s Best Pickles: Behind the Jars of “I’m Pickled” READ BLOG POST >

In the sprawling beauty of Fraser Valley, amongst the local legends that Wild Bluebell Homestead proudly showcases, we’ve chanced upon a real treasure: West Coast Wild Child. This isn’t just an apparel brand; it’s Tanya’s heart and soul, laid out in vibrant colors and patterns. From Mission, with fond memories rooted in Maple Ridge, Tanya has woven a tale that’s as much about community and connection as it is about unique graphic shirts. Today, we’re settling down for a cozy chat with her, hoping to share a slice of her world with all of you. Tanya, tell us a bit about yourself. Where do you call home and what drives …

West Coast Wild Child: Fraser Valley’s Go-To for Graphic Shirts READ BLOG POST >

Wild Bluebell Homestead Blog loves to showcase the talents and passion of local business owners and crafters. This time around, we’re shining the spotlight on Barefoot Flowers, nestled in the heart of Whonnock. Dive into this exclusive feature to learn more about the dedicated individuals behind the brand and understand the importance of supporting our local community. Let’s foster community spirit and get to know our neighbors a little better! Who are you, where do you live, and what do you enjoy about operating your flower business? Our names are Trina and Samantha Foot. We’re sisters by marriage but best of friends and neighbors by choice. We reside with our …

Barefoot Flowers: Best Local Flower Farm in Whonnock READ BLOG POST >

At Wild Bluebell Homestead Blog, we cherish the talent and creativity of our local business owners and crafters. By shining a spotlight on these gems, we not only support their endeavors but also foster a close-knit community spirit. Today, we dive deep into the world of AloeTerra, a thriving home-based business, and discover the passion that drives its founders, Michelle McKinnon and Phil Smith. Let’s find out more about this wonderful enterprise: Who are you, where do you live and what do you like about operating your home business? We are Michelle McKinnon and Phil Smith, founders of AloeTerra, located in Langley British Columbia Canada. Operating our home business allows …

AloeTerra: Handcrafted Self-Care Essentials from Langley, British Columbia READ BLOG POST >

Ah, the world of fashion! In all its splendor and glitter, it has been both a subject of admiration and a topic of concern for discerning souls like us. The fast-paced whirlwind of trends might be exciting, but let’s pause and ruminate over the unintentional marks it leaves on our dear Earth. The Textile Predicament: A Gentle Alarm In the vast tapestry of the fashion industry, some threads unravel a tale less told. According to the illustrious Ellen MacArthur Foundation, the industry generously contributes about 92 million tons of textiles to our world each year. Now, imagine the grand old châteaus of Europe filled with these textiles. The sad reality …

Buy One-of-a-Kind Handmade Kimonos Online in Canada: Repurposed from Vintage Fabric READ BLOG POST >

In an era where sustainability has taken center stage, many industries are reevaluating their practices to be more eco-conscious. The wedding industry, notorious for its excesses and waste, is no exception. Amidst this wave of change emerges WasteKnot, an innovative wedding planning business aiming to transform how we celebrate love. With a mission rooted deeply in sustainability and a unique approach that is both conscious and elegant, WasteKnot is setting a new standard for the industry. In this exclusive interview, we delve into the inspirations, challenges, and aspirations of the visionary behind this pioneering venture, learning more about how they are crafting memorable, eco-friendly weddings. Can you share the origins …

Interview With Mallory Gladman of WasteKnot Weddings and Events in New Westminster READ BLOG POST >

As summer paints the landscape with its vibrant hues, the folks in Mission are brewing something exceptional. The canvas? HubCo Brewing. The palette? A mesmerizing blend of craft, culture, and camaraderie. The date? August 23rd, from 4 pm to 8 pm. This isn’t just your ordinary craft market. It’s a rendezvous point where artistry intertwines with community spirit. It’s an avenue where local vendors become local legends, where businesses don’t just trade but build bonds. Where every handshake could lead to a collaboration and every sip of beer ignites a story. Sip. Shop. Support. Held at the HubCo Brewing in Mission, BC, this craft market promises an evening soaked in …

HubCo Brewing Craft Marketplace on August 23rd from 4-8PM at 33211 North Railway Avenue in Mission BC READ BLOG POST >

article photos by @eatsfromyvr on Instagram… In our most recent blog post article, we get to chat with local entrepreneurs shaking up the cookie scene and having a lot of fun with quality ingredients and selling cookies in squares instead of circles, they eat more like a brownie and taste like cookies made in heaven. Super thick cookies that are hand-made from scratch. A snacker’s dream! Check out the interview below and learn more about the sibling founders. They are also doing charitable community work, too! Who are you, where do you live, and what do you like about operating your food business? We are Bar Down Cookies, a brother-sister …

Creating Change with Cookies: An Inside Look at ‘Bar Down Cookies’ in Clayton Heights Who Support ‘KidSport Vancouver’ READ BLOG POST >

In our most recent blog post article, we get to chat with Carey from Little Shop Talk, who sells small business coupon books at local schools to raise money for the school system right here in Abbotsford, Mission, and the surrounding areas of the Fraser Valley, Lower Mainland, and Metro Vancouver, while advertising and promoting local businesses AND teaching the students about entrepreneurship while doing community outreach. You have got to check out this article, there is so much community-uplifting going on at Little Shop Talk! We encourage all local small business owners to reach out and chat with Carey. Can you explain the inspiration behind the creation of Little …

Supporting Local Economies and School Fundraising: How ‘Little Shop Talk’ Harnesses Small Business Coupon Books for Greater Good READ BLOG POST >

In our most recent community blog post article we get to chat with Brooke Kuyer from Wren & Jane based here in Abbotsford, they do different types of custom sewing as well as create sewed products and goods, learn more about their business below and consider connecting with them on Instagram. Who are you, where are you located, and what aspects of running your apparel design business do you enjoy? My name is Brooke. Almost seven years ago, we relocated from Vancouver to Abbotsford. Since then, we have thoroughly enjoyed settling down, building connections, and carving out time to explore hobbies and acquire new skills. Leaving the “big city” has …

Interview With Brooke Kuyer From Wren&Jane in Abbotsford READ BLOG POST >

In the era of digital integration, the notion of ‘community’ has evolved. No longer constrained by geographical borders, it now thrives in the digital world, connecting like-minded individuals from every global niche. Bearing this in mind, the Wild Bluebell Homestead blog emerges as a lighthouse, a common ground created to bolster and inspire those who are the very essence of humanity – the homesteaders, farmers, artisans, and others exemplifying the spirit of self-reliance and creativity. A Collaborative Platform for Mutual Values With a committed base of readers sharing a profound admiration for eco-friendly living, traditional arts, crafts, and agricultural methods, Wild Bluebell Homestead offers a distinct platform to spotlight your …

Harnessing the Power of Community: Why You Should Be Featured on Wild Bluebell Homestead Blog READ BLOG POST >

In our most recent homesteading blog post article, we get to chat with Marie and Heather from Ben&Junie Handmade based in Abbotsford, they make one-of-a-kind small-batch and hand-made crochet animals and other goodies. Check them out at local farmers’ markets and connect with them at the bottom of this blog post. Who are you, where are you located, and what aspects of running your home business do you enjoy? We are Heather and Marie, friends who first met when we had our children, Ben and June. Both of us were born and raised in Abbotsford, and we attend the same church. We appreciate the flexibility our business, Ben & Junie, …

Interview With Marie and Heather from Ben&Junie Handmade in Abbotsford READ BLOG POST >

In our most recent homestead blog post article, we get to chat with Jennifer and Colleen, from Sea Wolf Soaps and Bath Creations in Abbotsford, check out their story below and consider connecting with them on social media and at the local farmer’s markets throughout the area. Who are you, where do you live, and what do you appreciate about operating your craft business? Our names are Jennifer and Colleen, and we reside in Abbotsford, BC. We adore creating excellent products that enable people to indulge and treat themselves and others. We also take pleasure in meeting new individuals who visit our booth and other vendors each week at the …

Interview With Jennifer & Colleen from Sea Wolf Soaps and Bath Creations in Abbotsford READ BLOG POST >

In our most recent homestead blog post article below, we get to chat with Cheryl Later of Wawa’s Jam’s and Jelly’s in Abbotsford, you can find her at the local farmer’s markets and she is super passionate about high-quality small batch hand made artisanal jam and jelly, and her products taste amazing! Who are you, where are you based, and what is it that you love about running your jam and jellies enterprise? Hello, I’m Cheryl, fondly known as Wawa, the driving force behind Wawa’s Jams and Jellies. I operate my business from home in the heart of Abbotsford, British Columbia Canada. Making jams and jellies is a passion I’ve …

Interview With Cheryl Later from Wawa’s Jam’s and Jelly’s in Abbotsford READ BLOG POST >

In our most recent blog post article, we get to chat with Kristen Olthuis of Little House Creations in Chilliwack about her hand-made small-batch artisanal soy-based candle business, how the business got started, and what makes them different, we love learning about community members and supporting them and hope you do as well. For people with an inclination to support those who have autism, this is a good blog post to read and a business to support. Who are you and what do you enjoy about running your candle business? Hello, I’m Kristen, residing in Chilliwack, BC. What I find most appealing about operating my candle business is the autonomy …

Interview With Kristen Olthuis From Little House Creations in Chilliwack READ BLOG POST >

In this most recent homesteading blog post article, we get to chat with Dragana Skoro from SoapScapes based here in Abbotsford British Columbia Canada, who creates and sells hand-made small-batch artisanal soaps with love and amazing naturally sustainable ingredients that are healthy for your skin and the environment. Check out what we discussed below and consider connecting with her on social media. Who are you, where do you live and what do you like about operating your craft business? My name is Dragana Skoro. I live in East Abbotsford and operate my small business from home. I have a decent sized store with my products in my home, and a …

Interview With Dragana Skoro from SoapScapes in Abbotsford READ BLOG POST >

In the vast expanse of Canada, where breathtaking landscapes blend seamlessly with a rich tapestry of cultural diversity, a growing number of individuals are turning to homesteading as a means to cultivate not only a sustainable lifestyle but also an oasis of mental well-being. Nestled amidst the verdant forests, rolling hills, and pristine lakes, this unique way of life offers more than just self-sufficiency and a return to the roots; it provides a gateway to a profound sense of tranquility and inner harmony. In this fast-paced, technology-driven era, where stress, anxiety, and disconnection have become unwelcome companions, homesteading emerges as a transformative remedy. The holistic experience of tending to the …

20 Mental Health Benefits of Homesteading READ BLOG POST >

In this most recent homesteading blog post article we get to chat with Alexandra Fitzgerald of Wild Clementine Co. in Washington State! Who are you, where do you live, and what do you like about homesteading and operating your craft business? I’m Ali, the owner and maker behind Wild Clementine Co., based in southeastern Washington state, surrounded by wheatfields. I started my business as a creative outlet, and it’s really taken on a life of its own. My reusable dish covers tie in well with my homesteading hobbies as I’m always making sourdough or meal-prepping, or trying to store all the veggies from the garden, and having reusable food covers …

Interview With Alexandra Fitzgerald from Wild Clementine Co. in Washington READ BLOG POST >

In our recent homestead blog post, we get to chat with Tyler Cartner from WireMonkey, they make artisanal sourdough-scoring lames. Can you provide us with some background on Wire Monkey? How did the company come into existence, and what inspired you to specialize in creating handmade, artisanal sourdough bread lames? My wife started baking sourdough bread in the summer of 2018. This coincided with me finishing a custom CNC (computer numeric control) machine, aka a computer-controlled router. I was anxious to make something with my shiny new machine and when I saw her using a razor blade on a coffee stirrer I decided to try my hand at making a …

Interview With Tyler Cartner from Wire Monkey in Connecticut READ BLOG POST >

Homesteading in the 1800s was a challenging and often perilous way of life in both Canada and the United States. However, there were some differences between the two countries. In the United States, the Homestead Act of 1862 allowed settlers to claim up to 160 acres of land in the western United States. This was intended to encourage the settlement and development of the western territories. Homesteaders had to live on the land, build a house, and farm the land for at least five years before they could obtain full ownership of the property. Life on the frontier was difficult, with harsh weather, isolation, and danger from wildlife and Native …

What Was Homesteading Like in the 1800s? READ BLOG POST >

In this homesteading blog post article, we get to chat with our friend Mike Vaona from Rosehill Sourdough in Eugene Oregon. Can you tell us a little bit about the history and background of Rosehill Sourdough? How did the business get started and what inspired you to start it? Rosehill Sourdough started on Rosehill Drive in Riverside California. I started my sourdough (Lucille) there. A lot of things happened at once. I had been making pizza for years, but couldn’t get the flavor I was looking for while using yeast. A friend of mine got diagnosed with an autoimmune disease and her doctor said she couldn’t eat bread, including my …

Interview With Mike Vaona from Rosehill Sourdough in Eugene Oregon READ BLOG POST >

Are you passionate about gardening and the environment at your homestead in Canada? Then reusable garden grow bags might just be the solution you’ve been looking for. These eco-friendly containers not only offer a convenient and versatile way to grow your own plants, but they also help to reduce waste and promote sustainability. Made from durable materials like recycled plastic or organic cotton, reusable grow bags are designed to last for years, making them a cost-effective and environmentally conscious choice for gardeners of all levels. So, whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, join us as we explore the world of reusable garden grow bags and discover how …

Reusable Grow Bags For Your Homestead Garden READ BLOG POST >

Are you looking for things to do and stuff to see outdoors with your family that doesn’t cost any funds? Check out our blog post for tips. Mill Lake Park: This scenic park offers a peaceful escape from city life. Visitors can enjoy a picnic, take a leisurely stroll around the lake, or rent a paddleboat. Discovery Trail: This picturesque trail spans over 30 kilometers and provides stunning views of the Fraser Valley. It offers the opportunity to walk, jog or cycle through forests, wetlands, and farmland. Sumas Mountain: Hiking up Sumas Mountain offers breathtaking vistas of the surrounding area. With several trails to choose from, ranging from easy to …

Things To Do and Stuff to See Outdoors for Free in Abbotsford BC READ BLOG POST >

In this homestead blog post article, we are going to explore a medley of information about dehydrated organic sourdough bread starters, what they are, how to use them, and what equipment you will need. There are a number of benefits to baking sourdough bread from a cost-saving and health-improvement standpoint. Baking your very own handmade and homemade sourdough bread from scratch using a starter culture is not as difficult as you might think. What is sourdough bread? Sourdough bread is a type of bread that is made using a natural leavening process. Instead of using commercial yeast, which is commonly used in most bread recipes, sourdough bread is made using …

Buy Dehydrated Organic Sourdough Bread Starters Online from Wild Bluebell Homestead in Matsqui Village Abbotsford READ BLOG POST >

Check out our newest homesteader-style blog post where we got to chat with Melanie and Marika from Flowers by the Fraser. Who are you, where do you live and what do you like about homesteading or operating your farm? We are a small, mother (Melanie) and daughter (Marika) owned flower farm in Abbotsford British Columbia Canada. We grow all of our flowers using organic, sustainable methods. We love bringing joy to people through our cut flowers!  How did you get started with homesteading or farming and what are some useful tips for those who want to get started? Marika- I only started experimenting with growing things during covid, when I …

Meet Our Friends Melanie and Marika of Flowers by the Fraser in Abbotsford READ BLOG POST >

In our newest homestead blog post, we get to chat with our friend Dana Dykema from Valley to Shore in Lynn Valley North Vancouver. Who are you, where do you live and what do you like about homesteading and operating your business ? My name is Dana Dykema. I live on the North Shore with my husband and four children. As my kids have grown, I have learned the importance of sourcing local, seasonal foods and how to make meals from scratch. I like that I am sourcing food for my family and using that to meal plan for the week ahead. I believe our current global food system has …

Dana Dykema from Valley to Shore Chats Community and Harvest Boxes READ BLOG POST >

Nestled in the picturesque Fraser Valley of British Columbia, Canada, is the quaint Clayburn Village, a testament to the region’s rich industrial past. Established in 1905 as a company town by the Clayburn Company, a leading manufacturer of bricks and clay products, the village has a unique history and culture that has stood the test of time. The Clayburn Village is well-known for its distinctive style, featuring brick buildings and well-maintained streets. It’s hard to imagine that the village was once just a small hub for the local brick-making industry, with the Clayburn Company providing housing for its employees, as well as amenities such as a company store, school, and …

Clayburn Village in Abbotsford: History of British Columbia’s First Company Built Town READ BLOG POST >

Homesteading in Canada has a long and fascinating history that has helped shape the country’s settlement and development. The practice of living off the land and being self-sufficient on a piece of property has its roots in the Dominion Lands Act of 1872, a significant piece of legislation that was passed by the Parliament of Canada to encourage the settlement of western Canada by offering free land to settlers who were willing to improve it. The Act was designed to promote immigration to Canada and encourage the development of agriculture and other industries in the western regions of the country. Before the Act was passed, much of the land in …

Homesteading in Canada and the Dominion Land Act of 1872 READ BLOG POST >

Antique and vintage are terms often used to describe furniture and home decor, but they have different meanings and implications. Understanding the nuances of these terms can help you better appreciate and identify pieces in your home or while shopping. Antique furniture refers to pieces that are at least 100 years old. These items are typically considered to have significant historical, artistic, or cultural value due to their age, rarity, and craftsmanship. Antiques can be made of various materials such as wood, metal, glass, and ceramics. Antique furniture is often distinguished by its intricate details, fine workmanship, and ornate embellishments. They can also be associated with a specific period or …

What is the Difference Between Antique and Vintage Furniture and Home Decor READ BLOG POST >

Bartering and trading can be an effective way for homesteaders to save money by exchanging goods and services without using money. Here are some tips for bartering and trading on your homestead: Identify your skills and assets: Determine what skills you have and what assets you can offer in exchange for goods and services. For example, if you have excess garden produce, you can offer it to a neighbor in exchange for a homemade quilt. Find potential trading partners: Reach out to friends, family, and neighbors who may be interested in bartering and trading. You can also search for local bartering and trading groups online or through social media. Negotiate …

How to Save Money by Bartering and Trading For Goods and Services as a Homesteader READ BLOG POST >

Homesteading is a lifestyle that emphasizes self-sufficiency and living off the land. To achieve the best quality of life as a homesteader, here are 10 principles to follow: Sustainability: Homesteaders strive to live sustainably, which means using resources in a way that does not deplete them for future generations. This can include using renewable energy sources, growing food organically, and practicing conservation. Self-sufficiency: Homesteaders aim to be as self-sufficient as possible, which means producing their own food, generating their own energy, and being able to meet their basic needs without relying on outside sources. Resilience: Homesteaders understand the importance of being resilient and adaptable in the face of challenges. They …

10 Notable Principles for Homesteading READ BLOG POST >

Matsqui Village is a historical locality in the city of Abbotsford, British Columbia, Canada. The village was once home to the Matsqui First Nation and was later settled by European settlers in the late 1800s. The village was originally named after the Matsqui people who have inhabited the area for thousands of years before the arrival of Europeans. The village played a significant role in the early history of Abbotsford and the surrounding area. In the early 1900s, it was an important agricultural center, with many farms and orchards located in the area. The fertile land and favorable climate made it ideal for growing crops such as berries, apples, and …

History of Matsqui Village Nearby the Fraser River in Abbotsford READ BLOG POST >

Companion planting is a natural and sustainable gardening technique that involves planting different types of crops together to provide mutual benefits. Companion plants can help deter pests, attract beneficial insects, improve soil health, and even enhance the flavor of the main crop. Here are some companion plants that can be grown alongside organic tomatoes outdoors in Canada: Basil: This herb is a great companion plant for tomatoes because it repels pests like tomato hornworms and whiteflies. It also improves the flavor of the tomatoes. Marigold: Marigolds have been known to repel nematodes, aphids, and whiteflies, making them a good companion for tomatoes. They also attract beneficial insects like ladybugs and …

10 Companion Plants for Growing Organic Tomatoes Outdoors in Cooler Climates Such as British Columbia and Western Canada READ BLOG POST >

In our second homestead blog post article we get to chat with Jocelyn Flack from Railway Flower Farm in Mt Lehman Abbotsford. Who are you, where do you live and what do you like about homesteading or operating your farm?  I’m a stay-at-home mom who is embracing my family’s farming roots that go back six generations. I decided to take my family’s health and wellness into my hands with not only the beauty of flowers but also growing our own vegetables. A couple of years ago I realized I was a bit lost after becoming a mom and I needed something that wasn’t just working but something that fulfilled me. …

Meet Jocelyn Flack from Railway Flower Farm in Mt Lehman Abbotsford READ BLOG POST >

Hey there, who’s excited about spring and the start of the gardening season? We Are! Welcome to our new homestead blog where we will introduce new people and businesses we have met in the community along with sharing crafting inspirations, recipes, and more, below in this blog post check out what we chatted about with our new friend Courtney from The Local Harvest, and if you would like to collaborate with us don’t hesitate to reach out on our contact page to chat. Have a great growing season everyone. Who are you, where do you live and what do you like about homesteading or operating your farm? My name is …

Meet our Friend Courtney from The Local Harvest Flower Farm in Chilliwack READ BLOG POST >