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Fencing Part 2
Keep bovine out of Building zone In early April, we began planning to erect the first line of fencing in preparation for locking up the cattle once the house build commences. Initially, we contemplated hiring someone else for the task. However, considering the rough plans indicated approximately 2 kilometers of fencing, we opted to tackle the project ourselves. Fortunately, we were fortunate to have a knowledgeable friend experienced in fencing who generously offered to assist us. We determined that securing the front paddock would be the priority since the trough had recently been relocated there, and it was requiring fencing on only one side. Making some adjustments to our initial…
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Outsourcing of feed.
Raising livestock on your property comes with its fair share of challenges, especially in Australia, where concerns like feed and water supply weigh heavily on farmers’ minds. The recommended stocking rates typically suggest about 1 head per 2-2.5 acres, for cattle. Delays Compound into issues. Unfortunately, we encountered delays in processing 6 sheep and 2 Holstein steers for the freezer, compounded by delays in rain this Autumn. This forced us to seek supplementary feed. Although we left with what seemed like enough pasture and a few backup round bales, which we got someone to roll out during week 2 of our absence, we returned only to find that the lack…
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Egyptian walking onions 4
After 3 weeks away visiting family and friends in New South Wales, one of my first tasks were to check on the potted plants, my main concern was my Egyptian walking onions, before we left for holidays I transplanted the Bulbs into pots outside, after hardening them for around a week. I also checked the Bulblets, the bulblets weren’t showing any signs of development (Part 3). The Bulblets’ lack of development concerned me. I’d never cultivated Egyptian walking onions before. I watched a few Youtube videos to see if they needed certain weather conditions to trigger root development, however the videos indicated that the bulblets aren’t viable once cut from…
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Egyptian Walking onions Part 3
Roughly a month ago, I found two suppliers promising to deliver “the good stuff” – Egyptian walking onions. One offered bulblets, while the other supplied onion bulbs complete with roots. As it was my first venture into growing these onions after years of searching, I decided to try both options. This post updates on the progress, or lack thereof, for both choices. bulblets It’s been a month since the bulblets arrived, and I eagerly planted them in a well-draining potting mix, ensuring they received plenty of sunlight and keeping the soil moist. Despite my efforts, I’ve noticed a troubling change: the once vibrant purplish hue of the bulblets is fading,…
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Lip Balm
Beeswax and coconut oil create a powerful blend for a lip balm. I first developed this recipe in my early twenties after noticing my mother-in-law’s struggles with thin skin, pressure sore blemishes, and cracked lips. Although I can’t pinpoint the exact origin of the recipe, I decided to create a small batch and gifted it to her along with beeswax candles, mead, soap, and biscuits for Christmas. This marked the beginning of my tradition of curating “make everything” gift baskets for extended family members. Keeping the concoction simple, I chose to omit essential oils, as I was enchanted by the natural scent of beeswax. When I informed her that the…
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Beef Bourguignon
Beef Bourguignon is a classic French dish originating from the Burgundy region, known as “Boeuf Bourguignon” in French. It’s a hearty stew made with beef braised in red wine, usually Burgundy wine, however I am not up for paying French prices for wine I cook with so stick with a nice local Pinot Noir or Merlot.Beef Bourguignon is one of those dishes that screams warmth, and I would suggest having a crack at it on the next drizzly cold day. Ingredients: Instructions: we like to put dough dumplings in the pot about 20 minutes before serving and serve on a bed of mashed potatoes. If you would like to try…
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Chocolate chip biscuits
Indulging in chocolate chip biscuits is a joy that’s hard to resist. In our household, it’s become a cherished tradition where our kids eagerly join in to lend a hand in baking these delightful treats. Straight from the oven, they’re met with wide eyes and eager hands, ready to savor every gooey bite. Whether you prefer the irresistible pull of a warm, gooey center or the satisfying crunch of a slightly longer bake, these biscuits cater to every palate. Perfect for dunking into a steaming cup of tea or coffee, they elevate any cozy moment into a blissful indulgence. Ingredients: Instructions: 1. Preheat Oven: 2. Cream Butter and Sugars: 3.…
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Braised Lamb Shanks with a Red Wine Reduction.
Upon relocating to the Adelaide Hills, two observations immediately caught my attention: the abundance of sheep roaming the area and the scarcity of lamb recipes in local restaurants. Driven by my compulsive nature, I embarked on a mission to create a menu tailored for the numerous winery and vineyard eateries. One of the standout dishes envisioned for this hypothetical menu was Braised Lamb Shanks with a Red Wine Reduction. This culinary creation aimed to showcase the region’s house wines while harmonizing with locally-sourced ingredients. Transforming humble lamb shanks into a culinary masterpiece, this recipe bathes the tender meat in a luscious red wine sauce, infused with the bold flavors of…
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French vanilla Ice-cream
Indulge in the sublime pleasure of French vanilla ice-cream – a luxurious frozen custard that tantalizes the taste buds with its rich, velvety texture and unparalleled flavor. Whether served as a decadent side to a sumptuous cake or pie, or taking center stage with a drizzle of syrup and a sprinkle of hundreds and thousands, this creamy delight never fails to impress. However, for purists seeking the ultimate sensory experience, there’s nothing quite like enjoying it unadorned, allowing its exquisite taste to shine gloriously on its own. Dive into this recipe and unlock the secrets to creating the perfect French vanilla ice cream, a timeless classic that promises to delight…
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Beeswax Soap
For those new to homesteading, delving into the world of crafting Beeswax soap marks a significant milestone—a tangible emblem of self-sufficiency and a stride toward mastering sustainable living practices. It encapsulates the essence of independence and ingenuity, turning ordinary ingredients like oils and beeswax into a lavish essential for everyday use. Yet, the path to creating the perfect Homemade soap bar is not without its hurdles, especially for the hesitant novice. It demands meticulous attention to detail, from achieving the perfect blend of ingredients to navigating the intricacies of saponification. It requires patience and determination, as each batch brings its own surprises and lessons to be gleaned. However, amidst the…
