Category: Homestead

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Where I Keep Baby Chicks

Find out where I keep my baby chicks so you can build your own chicken brooder as well. Tips from Liz Chandler at PurlsAndPixels.

Stopping at the farm store when baby chicks are in season means I’ll be unable to resist temptation. I brought home four new baby chickens this weekend. But, I already had a home for them. Here, I’ll show you where I keep baby chicks until they are big enough to live in the main coop. Hopefully, you’ll get some ideas to build your own chicken brooder.

Where I Raise Baby Chicks

Rabbit Hutch

Yes, we are talking about baby chickens. So why am I bringing up rabbit hutches? Well, my chicks go into a rabbit hutch to grow up. I used to do what many of you may do; raise the babies in a bucket in my bathtub. That got smelly fast! So, I came up with an alternative solution that has worked well for my last three groups of chicks.

Now, I set a rabbit hutch on the floor of my chicken coop. This allows the babies to get to know the big girls and roosters in a safe space. The weave of the bars is small enough that the babies can’t get through the holes and the hens can’t get into the chicks’ space. Believe it or not, hens will kill baby chicks so it is important to keep them separated.

Another useful thing about a rabbit hutch is that the kit I bought comes with a feeder; one less thing to pick out! The rabbit feeders do have a mesh bottom, which allows chick crumbles to fall out. This is not good! So I took a piece of cardboard, cut it to size, and lined the bottom of the feeder first. This does the trick to keep the baby chicken food inside the rabbit feeder.

You can get the same hutch I have from Amazon. I did not fully assemble mine, leaving the legs and tray off the bottom. But if you have some extra time, assembling the hutch completely would work just as well.

The links on this page are Amazon Affiliate Links.

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Rabbit Hutch Complete Kit – Easy to Assemble Housing, Feeder, & Water Bottle Kit

by Pet Lodge

Find it on Amazon

Excelsior Pads

The floor of a rabbit hutch is not safe for delicate baby chick legs, though. To keep them from hurting themselves, I lay out excelsior pads as flooring. These pads come in squares are made of fine wood strands that have been woven together to create a soft, squishy mat. The babies don’t try to eat the flooring like they do with hay, so it lasts longer. They are also much less messy than wood shavings. The excelsior pads are easy to pick up and throw away once they’re too dirty to stay. (I also line my hens’ nesting boxes with excelsior pads. They’re pretty handy!)

Floor

Nest Box Pads for Chicken Nesting Boxes – 13 x 13 Pads Made in USA from Sustainably Sourced Aspen Excelsior

by the Pecking Order Store

Find it on Amazon

Heater

To keep the babies alive, it is very, very important to get them a heat source. If hatched naturally, a mama chicken would still be sitting on chicks well after they are hatched. Baby chickens cannot produce enough body heat to stay alive on their own. Many people get their chicks a heat lamp, but this poses a huge fire risk. I love using brooder plates instead. These little plastic trays warm up just enough to keep the babies comfy, but I’ve never had any worries that they will catch on fire while I am sleeping. Plus, the chicks can go under the plate when they are cold and leave if they get hot. It makes me feel better that they’re not trapped in a bucket under a hot lamp.

Heat
Thermo Chicken Brooder, Brooder Heater for Chicks

by K&H Pet Products

Find it on Amazon

Waterer

There are tons of choices for water containers for little chicklets. I have a simple hanging poultry waterer for my chicks like the one shown below. I hang it on the roof of the rabbit hutch with a carabiner clip and it seems to work well for me.

Water
Plastic Poultry Waterer | Durable Watering Container | Hanging Chicken Waterer No Waste | 1.5 Quart Plastic Poultry Waterer | Durable Watering Container | Hanging Chicken Waterer No Waste | 1.5 Quart

by Double-Tuf®

Find it on Amazon
Stainless Steel Carabiner Spring Snap Hook

by sprookber

Find it on Amazon

Chick Feed

When you pick up those baby chicks, you’ll need to grab a bag of “Chick Starter” crumbles for them to eat. You will have about a million brands and types to choose among. But, from what I have seen, the brands offer roughly the same product with two main choices: medicated and unmedicated. What type you choose will be up to you. Medicated feed helps prevent bad bacteria from growing in a baby chick’s digestive system. But this also may prevent good bacteria from growing there, as well. I think your personal preference should win out on this choice.

Food
Non-Medicated Starter Crumble Feed for Chicks & Ducklings

by Manna Pro

Find it on Amazon
Chick Starter Grower – Medicated Chick Feed Crumble for Young Chickens

by Manna Pro 

Find it on Amazon

I am so glad I already had my chick brooder set up when I made my impulse purchase. If you haven’t, I hope this helps you get started raising your new chicks up to be the best hens ever!

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Defeating Bindweed: A Gardener’s Battle

Pulling Weeds

I spent yesterday rehabilitating my overgrown garden and my enemy number one? Bindweed.

I left my garden for about three weeks, while I went on a work trip and then to visit family and friends in the big city. The weeds went wild! A thick carpet of vines smothered the other rogue plants that were trying to grow in the pathways.

Bindweed is a pretty, vining plant that produces dainty white and pink flowers, so you might be inclined to leave it in the garden. But don’t let it grow! Bindweed takes over everything.

Bindweed may have pretty flowers, but it will take over your yard. Make sure to pull the weed by its roots to keep it from coming back.

Instead of growing peas on my trellis Bindweed took over. This weed seems to steal nutrients from the other plants, as well. The peas are weak, the carrots tiny, and my squash and zucchini are basically non-existent.

One favor the Bindweed did for me? It entangled all the other weeds and I was able to roll up the mess like a fancy rug. Then, I tossed the whole thing into a garden bed I am letting rest this year. The nutrients will seep back into the soil, feeding next year’s veggies.

A Battle Worth Fighting

Although rolling up the bindweed gave me a moment of satisfaction, the real work was just beginning. Bindweed’s roots run deep, and simply pulling it out wasn’t going to cut it. I had to dig down and get as much of those stubborn roots out as possible. Even then, I know it’s only a matter of time before I see those vines trying to make a comeback.

Bindweed loves climbing the trellis; choking out the peas and beans meant for the arch.

Reclaiming the Garden

Once I had cleared the worst of the bindweed, I turned my attention to the rest of the garden. I re-staked the peas, giving them something to climb other than those aggressive vines. I added some compost to the soil, hoping to give my struggling vegetables a fighting chance. Then I sprinkled some fall-hardy seeds around like glitter. Hopefully I can salvage something from this growing season!

Bindweed steals sunlight, water, and nutrients from your garden plants. This sad squash has been stunted by bindweed.

Sad squash.

The Resilient Garden

This experience with bindweed highlighted how resilient nature can be. Even when life pulls you away and you have to leave your garden unattended, the garden is still there waiting for you to come back and set things right. It’s less about what went wrong and more about what you do next. And there’s something incredibly satisfying about rolling up your sleeves, taking back control, and making your space thrive again.

Turning Over a New Leaf

I know that bindweed is a tough opponent, but it’s not going to win this war. I’ll keep fighting, digging deep, and making sure my garden stays a place of growth and beauty, not a bindweed jungle. Whether I’m here every day or have to step away for a while, I’ll be ready to reclaim my garden whenever it needs me.

So, if you’re dealing with bindweed—or any other tenacious garden invaders—don’t worry about the time you’ve been away. With a little persistence and some hard work, you can take back your garden, too. Just remember: every setback is an opportunity to come back stronger.

Get rid of bindweed growing in your garden.

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Planting Strawberries and Asparagus in Southwest Colorado’s Unique Soil

In southwest Colorado, gardening can sometimes feel like you’re trying to solve a tricky puzzle. The soil here isn’t like your typical garden dirt; it’s a mix of sandy and shale components that challenges even experienced gardeners. But if you’ve got this type of soil, you’re in luck if you like strawberries and asparagus because, oddly enough, these plants thrive here when others struggle. So, let’s dive into how to make the most out of these hearty plants and turn your garden into a part of the local food forest, complete with your piñon trees.

Why Strawberries and Asparagus?

During the 2020 Covid pandemic lockdown, gardening became my new hobby of choice. I tried planting all sorts of vegetables and herbs. Everything I planted just wouldn’t take. Brassicas like kale and broccoli were destroyed by bugs. My tomatoes barely budded before the weather turned cold. But, when I tried strawberries and asparagus, it was like they were meant to thrive in our unique soil.

Planting the Perfect Pair

To start planning this perennial garden patch, choose a spot you don’t intend to disturb with tilling or plowing in the future. Your plants will live in this space for a very long time. Make sure to select a sunny location in your garden, since both strawberries and asparagus thrive in sunlight.

Prepare the area for asparagus first, since they require deeper planting. Dig trenches about 6-8 inches deep, incorporating organic matter, such as compost, to add nutrients to the soil. Many planting guides suggest to slowly fill in these trenches as your asparagus grows. I did not take this step, and just smoothed the garden bed. My asparagus is still thriving; so if your soil is extra sandy, you may also be able to simply plant your asparagus in one step.

After you’ve established a your asparagus placement, you can plant the strawberries. Because strawberries do well in sandy soil, which naturally aids in drainage, there’s no need to create raised beds or mounds for them. This setup has encouraged my strawberries to produce runners prolifically.

Since we’re dealing with sandy and shale-type soil, adding compost is important. It helps retain water and nutrients that sandy soil often lacks, and it makes the hard shale parts easier for roots to penetrate.

Plants Spacing for Strawberries and Asparagus

Plant your strawberries about 18 inches apart and your asparagus crowns about a foot and a half apart in rows. Water them well after planting and keep the soil moist, especially during the dry months.

Companion Planting Under Piñon Trees

Planting under or near your piñon trees can create a mini food forest. The trees provide partial shade and help protect the plants from too much sun while also helping the soil retain moisture. Strawberries, in particular, can benefit from this arrangement as they like a bit of shade during the hottest part of the day. The asparagus, with its ferny foliage, can also look quite decorative underneath the spreading branches of piñon trees.

Understanding Our Soil: Mancos Shale

Now, what’s this about our soil? In our region, we deal with something called Mancos Shale. It’s a type of sedimentary rock that you can find spreading across the southwestern United States, particularly in Colorado. This shale is part of what makes our soil so unique and challenging. It doesn’t hold nutrients well and can be tough for roots to break through. But with the right approach, such as adding compost and choosing the right plants, you can turn this challenging soil into a productive garden.

Mancos Shale is a geologic formation predominantly found in the Western United States, particularly across Colorado, New Mexico, Utah, and Wyoming. This formation consists of fine-grained sedimentary rock, primarily composed of shale, which is a type of clay-rich rock formed from the consolidation of mud and clay under pressure over millennia. Mancos Shale is known for its gray to black color and often contains marine fossils, like seashells, indicating that the area was once under a sea during the Cretaceous period.

In gardening and agriculture, Mancos Shale presents particular challenges due to its dense, compact nature and low fertility. It tends to be poor in nutrients essential for plant growth and can be hard for plant roots to penetrate. Its composition also means it has low water retention capabilities, making it difficult to maintain the moisture levels that many plants require. However, with proper management, such as the addition of organic matter to improve nutrient content and soil structure, gardeners can successfully cultivate certain hardy plants like strawberries and asparagus, which are adapted to less-than-ideal soil conditions.

Final Thoughts

With a bit of preparation and understanding of our unique soil, even a garden filled with sandy, shale conditions can become a lush, productive spot in your food forest alongside your piñon trees. So, don’t give up on your gardening dreams just because the soil is challenging—embrace what works, and you’ll be amazed at what can thrive!

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Rural Road Courtesy: A Handbook for Urban Transplants

Rural Road Courtesy - small town traditions for driving and walking down backroads.

Are you a small-town newcomer? Welcome!

Let’s get you started with a guide to walking and driving on rural country roads using some typical small-town rural road courtesy traditions.

Rural Road Courtesy - small town traditions for driving and walking down backroads.

In the calm landscapes of rural life, where every bend in the road reveals a new view and neighbors are as familiar as family, understanding the unspoken rules of the road is key, especially for those transitioning from the hustle and bustle of city living. Here’s a practical guide tailored for urban transplants, offering advice on integrating respectfully into rural communities while honoring the essence of country living.

Rural Road Courtesy: Walking Etiquette

Adjust Your Stride: Transitioning from city sidewalks to rural pathways requires a mindful approach. Always walk facing oncoming traffic, stay on designated paths, and remain aware of your surroundings to ensure a safe journey.

A guide to country road etiquette. Learn the polite conventions of walking and driving on small-town country roads.

Acknowledge Drivers: Extend a courteous wave or nod to drivers who yield or slow down to accommodate pedestrians. This simple gesture acknowledges their consideration and fosters positive interactions on the road.

Rural Road Courtesy - small town traditions for driving and walking down backroads.

Enhance Visibility: In low-light conditions, prioritize safety by wearing reflective clothing or carrying a flashlight. By increasing your visibility to drivers, you contribute to a safer environment for pedestrians and motorists alike.

Rural Road Courtesy - small town traditions for driving and walking down backroads.

Respect Private Property: Stay mindful of property boundaries and refrain from trespassing on private land. Respect the rights of local landowners and follow designated routes to minimize disruptions to their livelihoods.

Embrace Local Wisdom: When offered advice or guidance by longtime residents, approach it with humility and an open mind. Engage in respectful dialogue, recognizing the value of preserving rural traditions and customs for generations to come.

Rural Road Courtesy: Driving Etiquette

Embrace Local Customs: When navigating the winding roads of the countryside, take note of the local customs, such as acknowledging fellow drivers with a friendly wave. It’s a small gesture that speaks volumes about respect and community spirit.

Exercise Caution: Rural roads may present unique challenges, from farm equipment to wandering wildlife. Exercise caution, adhere to posted speed limits, and maintain a vigilant mindset to ensure the safety of all road users.

Respect the Pace: Embrace the unhurried rhythm of rural life and resist the urge to rush. Adhering to the leisurely pace of the countryside not only enhances safety but also allows you to savor the beauty of your surroundings.

Preserve Rural Identity: While it’s natural to bring elements of urban life to your new environment, remember to respect the distinct character of rural communities. Avoid advocating for changes that would compromise the tranquility and charm of the countryside.

Preserving country living.

Safe Travels Y’all

For urban dwellers transitioning to rural life, integrating into the fabric of the community requires a blend of respect, courtesy, and appreciation for local customs. By embracing the unhurried pace, expressing gratitude for the kindness of neighbors, and preserving the intrinsic beauty of the countryside, newcomers can find fulfillment and belonging in their new surroundings. Remember, the roads of rural life may be winding, but each turn offers an opportunity to connect with the land and the people who call it home.

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Keeping Bears Out of the Chicken Coop

Keeping bears out of the chicken coop Liz Chandler PurlsAndPixels.

Essential Steps to Protect Your Flock in Bear Country

Living in bear country means being the guardian of your chicken coop in a land where bears might mistake it for an all-you-can-eat buffet. Bear-proofing your coop isn’t just about protecting your chickens; it’s also about ensuring that our furry neighbors don’t end up enjoying an unintended feast.

Keeping bears out of the chicken coop Liz Chandler PurlsAndPixels.

Understanding Bear Behavior

First things first, let’s delve into the bear psyche. Bears are not food critics; they’re opportunists. They have an uncanny ability to sniff out a chicken dinner and might consider your coop a Michelin-starred establishment if given the chance.

Keep Temptations Out of Reach

Alright, now it’s time to clean up the yard. Remove any chicken delicacies that might entice bears. Store feed securely in bear-proof containers, because your chickens aren’t the only critters that enjoy corn and grains. A hungry bear will happily snack on your chicken feed, then search for some protein to go with his side dish. It’s best not to rely on “bear-proof” containers; a clever bear can pop these open with the flick of one claw. Instead, keeping feed in a sturdy shed or garage is a good way to keep it out of reach.

A bear’s claw can easily pierce the top of a “bear-proof” feed bucket, allowing it to unscrew the lid and feast.

Fortify the Fortress

Keeping bears out of the chicken coop Liz Chandler PurlsAndPixels.

Your coop should resemble Fort Knox, but with more clucking. Construct it with materials sturdy enough to withstand a bear’s curiosity. Remember, bears are like the Houdinis of the animal kingdom; they’ll try every trick in the book to crack into your coop.

When it comes to locks, bear-resistant is the name of the game. Bears have a knack for figuring out puzzles, so opt for locks and latches that would give even Sherlock Holmes a run for his money.

Regularly inspect your coop to ensure it remains a fortress against bear infiltration. Remember, bears have a lot of time on their paws and are persistent problem-solvers.

Keeping bears out of the chicken coop Liz Chandler PurlsAndPixels.

Your First Line of Defense: Fencing

Keeping bears out of the chicken coop Liz Chandler PurlsAndPixels.

Install fencing that even the most ambitious bear would think twice about crossing. Think electric fencing or a fence so formidable it could double as a set for a medieval castle. Bears might be strong, but they’re not fans of unpleasant surprises.

If you find a particularly stubborn bear is undeterred by a little zap, here is a tip I learned from a retired Forest Service Wildlife Officer. He told me to try wrapping a strip of raw bacon around the electric fence; when the bear tries to grab a snack, it will get a zap that should deter it from coming back. Just make sure to turn off the electricity before you wrap the bacon, and turn it back on when you’re done.

Lights, Alarms, and Other Bear-Be-Gone Gadgets

Bright lights and sudden loud noises: the bear’s version of an unexpected pop quiz. Set up motion-activated deterrents that make bears feel like they stumbled into a surprise party they weren’t invited to.

To create a bear-unfriendly surprise party, motion-activated deterrents could mimic a carnival gone haywire in the woods. Picture strobe lights flashing vividly, casting disorienting shadows amidst the trees. Accompanying these dazzling lights, an array of loud, dissonant noises erupts—a cacophony of honks, bells, and perhaps even snippets of human chatter or music, jolting the bears out of their peaceful reverie. These deterrents, strategically placed and activated by motion sensors, would make the bears feel like they stumbled upon a chaotic celebration they definitely weren’t invited to.

From the bear’s perspective, these unusual sights and sounds disrupt their usual routine, creating an environment that feels unfamiliar, unpredictable, and thoroughly unwelcoming. It’s the forest equivalent of walking into a surprise party where you’d much rather have stayed home—a sensory overload that normally encourages a swift retreat back to the peace and quiet of the untouched woods.

Man’s Best Friend: The Canine Guardians

Keeping bears out of the chicken coop Liz Chandler PurlsAndPixels.

When it comes to bear deterrence, our four-legged friends often steal the show. A well-trained dog can be an invaluable asset in keeping bears at bay. Bears are wary of dogs and are less likely to approach an area where they sense the presence of these vigilant guardians. Consider introducing a dog to your coop-defense team – a furry, barking sentry that doubles as a loyal companion.

However, training is key; not every dog is automatically a bear-chasing expert. Choose breeds known for their protective instincts and train them to safely deter, not directly engage, these formidable visitors. A dog’s bark might just be the final piece of the puzzle in creating a bear-proof fortress for your chickens. Be sure to socialize your pups well with their new chicken friends, or you will have an entirely different predator problem on your hands.

Community Bear Watch

Keeping bears out of the chicken coop Liz Chandler PurlsAndPixels.

Spread the word! Let your neighbors in on the secrets of bear-proofing. Sharing tips might just prevent your neighborhood from turning into a bear picnic area.

Unusual Bears

If you find the bear in your neighborhood is not deterred by these tricks, call your local animal control or wildlife specialist. They’ll have more tips and might even want to relocate very stubborn or aggressive bears.

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The Knitting Garden: Seedling Repotting

Plant Growth Spurts and Repotting Shenanigans

Hope this update finds you in good spirits! Hold onto your knitting needles because it’s time for a report on the wild antics of my New Year’s Day seedlings, starring the one and only seedling repotting extravaganza. It has been two months now and my little baby plants have outgrown their first pots.

Learn to repot seedlings with Liz Chandler @ PurlsAndPixels

Apple Seedlings

Take the apple seedlings, for instance. These mischievous little sprouts are tossing leaves and shoots around like they’ve discovered the secret to a plant rave. Their repotting makeover has transformed them into the life of the botanical party. I’m envisioning a future of bountiful apple harvests, providing both sustenance and ample inspiration for my knitting escapades.

Artichoke Seedlings

And then there are the artichokes, living their best lives in upgraded accommodations. With newfound space, they’re flaunting extravagant leaf unfurling ceremonies. It’s like they’re rehearsing for a vegetable beauty pageant, and I’m eagerly awaiting the day they’re crowned the queens of my knitting garden.

Pepperoncini Seedlings

In the realm of pepperoncini, things are heating up – quite literally. These VIP-treated pepper plants are flexing their green leaves and budding peppers with an extra dose of sass. I anticipate them adding some serious heat to my meals, perhaps even delivering a spicy stand-up comedy routine on the side.

Indoor Tomato Plant

And as for my indoor tomato houseplant I started last fall? It has a green tomato to boast about! Picture this tomato strutting its stuff, declaring, “Look what I can do!” Who knew repotting could turn a tomato into a superstar?

As I navigate the unpredictable world of repotted seedlings, it’s clear that New Year’s Day was just the opening act for a dramatic comedy of plant proportions. Stay tuned for more laughs and updates as we continue this horticultural stand-up routine. Here’s to a year filled with knitting, gardening, and the joy of watching our repotted seedlings steal the show!

Repotting Seedlings 101: Time to Give the Plants a New Home

Now that we’ve had our share of laughs with the sprightly seedlings, let’s delve into the not-so-serious, but very important, matter of repotting these green comrades. Because, let’s face it, even plants need a change of scenery every once in a while!

Step 1: Choose the Right Pot

Think of it as matchmaking for your plants. Find a pot that’s just the right size – not too big, not too small. You don’t want your seedlings feeling like they’re in a mansion or stuck in a studio apartment. Goldilocks would be proud.

Choose a pot that is just a bit bigger than your seedling when repotting. Choose a pot that is just a bit bigger than your seedling when repotting. This ensures your plants stay happy.

Step 2: Mind the Roots

When you are working on seedling repotting, make sure to be careful with the delicate roots. It’s like giving your plants a spa day. Gently loosen the roots from their cozy starter pot. Don’t be too harsh; remember, it’s a delicate operation, not a wrestling match. We’re aiming for happy, not traumatized.

Seedling repotting with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels

Step 3: Fresh Soil, Fresh Start

Think of this as a plant vacation – new soil, new adventures. Choose a nutrient-rich mix to give your green buddies the best start in their upgraded homes. Maybe throw on a little “Welcome to the Jungle” soundtrack for added flair.

A little pro top for those soil bags….

When opening your soil bag, don’t cut horizontally at the top. Instead cut a vertical silt down from the top. You’ll be able to tie the top of the bag closed when your done. No more spilling dirt all over the place!

Open your potting soil with a vertical silt so you'll be able to close it more easily when you are done. Open your potting soil with a vertical silt so you'll be able to close it more easily when you are done. Tie a cute little bow and no more soil spills!

Step 4: Water with a Sprinkle, Not a Flood

Plants appreciate a good drink, but let’s not turn this into a water park comedy. Be mindful not to overflow their new digs; a gentle sprinkle will do. Imagine it’s a sophisticated tea party for your seedlings, not a wild pool party.

Water newly repotted seedlings, but be gentle; you don't want to drown or hurt the delicate plants.

Step 5: Sunlight Serenade

Just like us, plants need their daily dose of Vitamin D. Place them in a spot where they can bask in the sunlight, not in a dark comedy corner. Let them soak up the rays, and watch them flourish like little botanical superstars.

Repot your seedlings if it is too early to put them outside, but they are getting too big for their starter pots.

And there you have it – the not-so-serious guide for seedling repotting. Remember, it’s all about creating a pleasant environment where your green friends (and you) can thrive. Happy repotting, and may your plants enjoy their new homes!

Stay tuned, because now that there are some open starter pots, I’ll be trying to grow Celery for the first time this year… It should be an interesting project!

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Knitting in the Sticks

Knitting in the sticks by Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

How Country Living Wove Its Way into My Practical Knitting Adventures

Life in the countryside isn’t just about picturesque landscapes; it’s also about how my knitting needles have adapted to thrive in the great outdoors. Let’s unravel the influence that knitting in the sticks (yes, pun intended 😉) has had on my own crafting adventures.

Spinning a Yarn: Just Me, the Mountains, and the Trees

Let me tell you the tale of how my knitting has evolved since I moved back to my small, Colorado hometown. With less than 2000 people in town and lots of State and National Forest to wander around, I meet more deer and turkeys than I do people. And, thank goodness for the space! Nature and country-living have, without a doubt, inspired my knits.

Wild turkey in the pinon forest photo by Liz Chandler @PurlsAnd Pixels. All Rights Reserved.

Yarn Adventures: Nature’s Color Palette

Living in the boonies means my yarn choices are a bit like picking berries – I go for the richest hues, found right outside my door. Whether it’s the muddy browns after a rainy day, the vibrant greens dancing in the trees, or the blue hues of the Rocky Mountain sky, my yarn basket mimics the countryside’s color spectrum.

Knitting in the sticks photo by Liz Chandler @PurlsAnd Pixels. All Rights Reserved.

Weather-Proof Knits: Seasons Got Style

Surviving the rural Colorado climate means knitting for all seasons. When winter hits, I’m like a knitting bear in hibernation, creating thick, cozy accessories that could keep a snowman toasty. Come spring, my knitting switches to “practical mode” with functional home goods, like hand towels and washcloths.

Knitting in the Sticks by Liz Chandler @PurlsAnd Pixels. All Rights Reserved.

Rural living also means limited choices. When the nearest mall is two hours away, fashion trends tend to fall behind. (We were still wearing those low-rise hip-hugging jeans well into the 2010s 🤫). That’s why I stick with classic, minimalist knitting designs that can survive changes in trends.

Farmyard Fiber Finds: Local Yarn Heroes

Let’s talk sheepish secrets! Living near farms means I’ve got access to some real woolly wonders. I snag local sheep’s fleece and alpaca wool fibers whenever I can. Craft fairs, art shows, and small-town festivals are filled with hidden fuzzy-gems. And trust me, these local fibers know how to keep you warm!

Fluffy Alpaca photo by Liz Chandler @PurlsAnd Pixels. All Rights Reserved.

Practical Patterns: Hardworking Hobbies

I’ve mastered rural traditions in knitting that are as practical as a good ol’ farmer’s handshake. Classic stitches and Fair Isle designs – they aren’t just pretty; they’re like the Swiss Army knives of knitting, ready for anything mountain life throws my way.

See the Wide-Brim Hat Pattern

Tranquility: Peace Amidst the Pines and Purls

Here in my forest, a countryside symphony of chirping birds calm and entertain. As I weave together a new knitting project, songbirds whistle and hawks screech. Woodpeckers drum, while ravens provide a throaty chortle. Little Steller’s Jays mimic the other’s songs. The opus echoes down my little canyon when they awake. It’s the best sound therapy I can think of: simply soaking in the tranquility of the piñon forest.

Red Tailed Hawk Colorado Skies photo by Liz Chandler @PurlsAnd Pixels. All Rights Reserved.
Songbirds in the oak brush photo by Liz Chandler @PurlsAnd Pixels. All Rights Reserved.
Steller's Jay in front of a Full Moon photo by Liz Chandler @PurlsAnd Pixels. All Rights Reserved.

Knitting in the Sticks

Living in the sticks has added a practical twist to my knitting endeavors. From yarn hues inspired by nature’s whimsy to patterns that could handle a rural rodeo, my knitting journey is a playful dance with the practical, backwoods charm. So, here’s to needles clicking, sheep frolicking, and country living inspiring every purl and knit in my stash!

Knitting in the sticks photo by Liz Chandler @PurlsAnd Pixels. All Rights Reserved.
Knitting in the Sticks: Colorado Knitting inspiration, photo by Liz Chandler @PurlsAnd Pixels. All Rights Reserved.

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The Calm Before the Snowstorm: Preparing in Colorado’s Fickle Weather

Snow in Colorado - photo by Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels

Snowstorm Prep in Southwest Colorado

by Liz Chandler

Ah, the weather in Colorado – as changeable as a toddler’s mood swings. We all know that fleeting moment of warmth just before a snowstorm hits. It’s like nature’s way of saying, “Here’s a quick taste of spring before I dump more snow on you!” In that brief respite, it’s time to get your game face on and snowstorm prep.

Preparing for the Incoming Snowstorm

The Calm Before the Snowstorm: Preparing in Colorado's Fickle Weather by Liz Chandler

Picture this: The sun’s out, the snow’s melting, and I’m doing a mad dash around the yard. Garden tools left out? Check. Animals comfy in their shelters? Check. Buildings ready to face the snowy wrath? Check, check, check. Because in Colorado, you’ve got to seize the moment!

Animals and Outbuildings

Sure you can refill the chicken feed tomorrow. They’ve got a little left. But do you really want to hike out there in a foot of snow? I sure don’t, so I make sure to top off the hens’ feeders and waterers when it is warm and beautiful. The girls are happy, I’m happy. It is a win-win!

Colorado snowstorm prep tip: refill the chicken feeders on the warm day before most storms.

Tools and Toys

Colorado snowstorm prep tip: make sure your snowplow and other equipment are in working order and accessible.

An essential tip for preparing for Colorado snowstorms is to meticulously check and ensure the functionality of your snowplow and other winter equipment. Confirm that the snowplow is in optimal working condition, with all components thoroughly inspected and any necessary repairs addressed. Additionally, it is crucial to guarantee that the equipment is easily accessible when the need arises. A well-maintained and readily available snowplow can significantly streamline the process of clearing driveways and pathways, contributing to a more efficient and stress-free response to the winter weather challenges that often grace the Colorado landscape.

Colorado snow prep tip: put the wheel barrow and other garden tools away before it snows.

Another crucial tip for preparing for Colorado snowstorms involves taking advantage of the fleeting warm days: make it a priority to pick up outdoor toys and tools. These items left scattered in the yard may soon find themselves buried under a blanket of snow, complicating cleanup and potentially causing damage. By seizing the opportunity to tidy up during those brief spells of milder weather, you ensure a smoother transition into the snowy days ahead, saving both time and effort in the long run.

Colorado snowstorm prep tip: pick up toys and tools on warm days or they'll get buried in the snow.

Finish Shoveling

Colorado Snowstorm prep tip: Finish shoveling icy spots as soon as they thaw or you'll get more snow on top and they will be stuck all winter.

Alright, fellow winter warriors, here’s a snow survival nugget: treat icy spots like ninja snow – quick and sneaky! The game plan? Finish shoveling those frosty troublemakers as soon as they thaw. Why, you ask? Well, let’s just say we want to avoid a winter-long staring contest with stubborn ice patches. If you procrastinate, they might just call in more snow reinforcements and set up camp for the entire season. So, grab your shovel, channel your inner snow superhero, and let’s keep our winter pathways drama-free and slip-proof!

Embracing Indoor Activities: Knitting During Snowstorms

Knitting Journal: Winter Wonderland by Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

As soon as the snowflakes commence their enchanting dance, it’s officially knitting o’clock! Believe me, it’s the ideal way to embrace the storm. The needles go clickety-clack, and in the blink of an eye, I transform into a crafting maestro in the midst of a winter wonderland.

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Saluting the Quirks of Colorado Weather

Ah, Colorado – where the weather keeps us on our toes! That last sunny hurrah before a snowstorm? It’s our reminder to prep smart and savor every twist and turn. So, here’s to our ever-surprising skies and the quirky rituals that make our snowy days a tad cozier.

Hey, how do you snowstorm prep in Colorado’s yo-yo weather? Share your tips for embracing the unexpected or let me know your secret weather-predicting weapon. WeatherBug, anyone?

Colorado snowstorm prep.

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