Category: Homestead

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Homestead Living Essentials

April 28, 2025May 5, 2025

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Homestead Planning

How to Set Realistic Goals for Your Homestead (and Actually Reach Them) 💪

Homesteading is full of dreams: lush gardens, happy animals, cozy handmade goods, and a pantry stocked for winter. But getting from “dream” to “done” takes more than just hope. It takes planning clear, realistic homesteading goals that actually fit your life.

If you have been feeling overwhelmed, behind, or even a little defeated on your homesteading journey, you are not alone. Setting good goals can make the difference between a homestead that fuels you and one that drains you. (Ask me how I know.) Here is how to do it right.

Want a little extra help? Grab the free Homestead Goal Planner Printable (PDF) to map out your goals as you read!

Freshly picked food is a great reason to start a homestead. Plan yours with the free homestead planning guide from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

1. Start with Your “Why”

Every good homestead goal starts with a reason. Are you trying to eat healthier? Save money? Sell extra produce for a little side income from your homestead? Spent more time in nature?

Knowing your “why” will help you pick homesteading goals that matter to you, not just what everyone else is doing.

What is your homesteading motivation? Use that to help set your goals. Mine is being in nature more. Set your goals with the free homestead planner from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

2. Choose One Focus at a Time

It is tempting to want it all at once: chickens, bees, gardens, goats, fruit trees, sourdough bread, and homemade soap. (One year, I tried all of it at once… and let’s just say, the weeds were the only ones thriving.)

Pick one major homesteading project to focus on first. Maybe this year is the year of “learn to raise chickens” or “build the garden beds.” Let everything else wait until you have mastered your first goal.

Start step-by-step and you'll have a big basket of eggs from your backyard chickens. Get the free homestead planning guide from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

3. Break Big Dreams into Tiny Steps

Big dreams are great. But “grow all our own food” is too big to tackle all at once. Instead, break it down:

Build one 4 x 8 foot garden bed
Plant 3 easy crops (like lettuce, radishes, and green beans)
Learn basic composting skills

Small steps keep the momentum going. Every little win counts when building your homestead.

Little seeds take time to sprout, but it is worth it to help avoid pests on your indoor herb garden.

4. Plan for Setbacks (Because They Will Happen)

Gardens fail. Chickens get sick. Unexpected bills pop up. Homesteading life happens.

The key is to expect bumps in the road. When they come, adjust. (The year I finally planted tomatoes, we had a surprise June frost. You just have to laugh and try again.) A goal delayed is not a goal denied. Stay flexible, and you will stay on track over the long haul.

When setting homesteading goals, plan for mistakes and failures. Nothing is perfect, but that doesn't mean you can't build your dream homestead. Read more from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

5. Celebrate Progress, Not Perfection

Homesteading is not about having a magazine-perfect property. It is about building a life that feels good to you.

Celebrate each step: the first egg, the first tomato, the first day you sit on the porch with a cup of tea from herbs you grew yourself. These wins are what homestead success looks like. (And the world has never ended over crooked rows of carrots.)

Planning your homestead can include raising chickens, eggs, and more. Get your free printable homestead goal planner from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Why Setting Homestead Goals Leads to Long-Term Success

Setting realistic homesteading goals is one of the best ways to grow a successful, fulfilling homestead. Focus on what matters most, break it down into manageable steps, and celebrate every win, big or small.

Your homesteading journey will be messy, muddy, and yours. Start small. Stay steady. Trust yourself. And when you need more practical tips for starting a homestead, managing daily challenges, or keeping your dream alive even when life gets chaotic, I am here to help. 🏡

Free Homesteading Goal Planner

🌿 Don’t forget to download your free Homestead Goal Planner Printable (PDF) to get started!

Get the free Homestead Goal Planner from Liz Chandler at PurlsAndPixels and start planning your perfect homestead.

🌱 10 Tips for Starting Your Homestead: Simple Steps to Turn Your Dream into Reality

🧰 5 Simple Tips to Keep Your Homestead Running Smoothly (Even When Life Feels Chaotic)

👕 DIY Chicken Coop Dust Mask Alternative: Use a Kid’s Worn-Out Shirt for Sustainable Homestead Cleaning

Homestead Living Essentials

April 23, 2025April 30, 2025

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Hatching Chicken Eggs

From Almost Tossed to Tiny Miracles: My First Hatch 🐣

This was not the plan.
It was not even a plan.

I had gone out of town for a few days to celebrate my son’s birthday. When we returned, the hens had been busy: there were eggs everywhere. Not a few… a lot. Some were tucked in corners. Some were still warm. Most were definitely not what you would call “clean.”

Overflowing nest boxes led me to hatch chicken eggs. Read more from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

And I almost just tossed them all.

But something about that pile of potential made me pause.

On a whim, equal parts curiosity and defiance, I pulled out 24 of the best-looking eggs and my son and I set up the incubator. We didn’t share what we were doing. I was not sure it would work, and I did not want to get anyone’s hopes up or make them sad if nothing happened.

Setting up an incubator is easy as pie. Then you get to hatch baby chickens in your house! Read more from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Backyard Chicken Breeds and the One Proud Rooster

These were not carefully collected hatching chicken eggs from a breeder. They came from my own eclectic backyard flock, which includes Ayam Cemani, Faverolles, Jersey Giant, Rhode Island Red, and a few mystery hens. The eggs were all completely unique. Some were big, some small, and a few were speckled. There was even one shaped like a football.

Hatching backyard chicken eggs is so exciting. Read about Liz Chandler's experience at PurlsAndPixels.

As for the father, that part was easy. My Jersey Giant rooster is the only guy on the scene: big, bold, and proud of it. He struts like a bodyguard and crows like he is announcing royalty. I am certain every single chick in that incubator is half giant, even if the mamas come from all corners of the feathered world.

I picked the eggs based on shell quality and vibes. That was it.

And then we waited.

A few days later, I candled the eggs for the first time and could hardly believe my eyes… all 24 showed signs of life! Each one was fertilized, and most of them were moving. It felt like the kind of beginner’s luck you shouldn’t question. I was stunned, thrilled, and just a little intimidated by the idea that I might actually be preparing for hatching the chicken eggs into two dozen chicks.

To see if a baby is inside, you candle the chicken egg by placing it on a light. If a baby has started to develop, you'll see little veins, as shown here. Read more from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Day 18 Wiggles and a Tiny Powerhouse Chick 🐥

Most chicks hatch at day 21. But, around day 18, one little egg started rocking. Then came the peep. Then the pip.

The tiniest chicken egg in the bunch hatched first. And not just first: it popped out, fluffed up, and immediately started helping its sibling hatch. Like a tiny, damp nurse chick, it gave the other egg a few swift, determined kicks as if to say, “I am not going to be out here alone,” until chick number two emerged.

I thought I would be assisting these babies.

It turns out, they had each other’s backs.

Time to hatch! Happy birthday little baby chickens. 🐣

Newborn Chick Rituals: Egg Cuddles 💛

One of the sweetest, most unexpected things I noticed?
As soon as they hatch, every chick picks an egg to cuddle and dry out on.
Not necessarily their own, just whichever shell they bonded with. It is like they choose a comforting pebble in the chaos, nuzzling into it and falling asleep, wet wings hugging their little egg buddy as if it had already hatched. I’m sure they can hear the faint peeping and movement inside the soon to hatch shells.

It is instinctive. It is soft. And it is one of the most beautiful and adorable things I have ever seen.

Newly hatched baby chicks cuddle the eggs that have pipped while they are still in the incubator. Learn more from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Seven Chicks, Plus a Coffee Break Surprise

By the time I went to bed, two chicks were dry and wreaking havoc in the incubator. I moved them to the brooder so they would not smother their unhatched siblings.

Now that the chicks are dry and fluffy, it’s time to move from incubator to brooder! 🐥

By morning?

Seven.

Seven real, squirmy, perfect little chicks. 🐣

Most of them are black: my baby ravens. I have always wanted to tame a raven, so seeing these tiny black fluffballs peep and wobble their way into the world felt like a dream come true. They might not caw or perch dramatically on my shoulder, but for now, they are my miniature, feathery versions, and I adore them.

One has a blonde streak on her belly and way too much personality already. Another hatched so loudly she scared me half to death, peeping like a car alarm the moment she broke free. Others were quiet, cuddly, and content to nap on top of unhatched eggs while whispering motivational fluff into the shells.

This batch of eggs, fathered by a Jersey Giant rooster is an adorable little flock. Read more with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

And then… coffee happened.

One hatched while I stepped away to make coffee. Surprise! I came back to find a new chick where there had been an egg just moments earlier. Now eight fluffballs sit where eggs once were. One tiny overachiever kicked off her eggshell while I was making coffee. ☕

A surprise baby chick came from hatching chicken eggs out of the backyard coop! Find out more from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

What I Learned From My First Hatch

This hatch was not pristine. The eggs were not washed. The humidity dipped. At least one chick emerged to kicks in the face from it’s impatient sibling.

But it still worked.

It reminded me that sometimes, we do not need ideal conditions. We just need to believe in unlikely beginnings, even if it starts as a pile of forgotten eggs after a birthday weekend.

What is Next for My Backyard Chicks?

More eggs are still in the incubator. I do not know how many more will chicken eggs will be hatching, and I am okay with that. The eight already here are plenty to love.

They eat, sleep, peep, and flop under the brooder plate like tiny potatoes with opinions.
They cuddle unhatched eggs like baby blankets and peep at me like I owe them snacks.

A good boy always protects his babies. 🐶 🐣 💕

If you have been sitting on an idea, a maybe, a what-if… try it.

You never know when a quiet egg will turn into the loudest little peep in the brooder.

Thinking about starting your own backyard flock or hatching eggs for the first time?

Browse my tips, homestead resources, and beginner-friendly gear recommendations right here on the blog.

🐔 The Joy and Practicality of Raising Backyard Chickens

🐥 Where I Keep Baby Chicks

🐤 When to Move Chicks Outside

🪹 What I Did When My Hens Stopped Laying in the Coop

🐻 Keeping Bears Out of the Chicken Coop

📺 Follow PurlsAndPixels on YouTube for More of my Cozy Videos

🧺 Shop my Favorite Chicken Keeping Essentials on Amazon (affliate link)

Don’t Miss a Peep

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March 29, 2025April 28, 2025

How to Sell Handmade Items

Learn about selling handmade knits, crochet, jewelry, and art with tips from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

How to Sell Your Knits, Crochet, and Handmade Items Online or at Craft Fairs (Without Losing Your Mind or Your Profit) 🧺

Thinking about selling your handmade hats, scarves, dishcloths, or other cozy creations? Whether you knit, crochet, weave, or dabble in all things fiber, there is a way to turn your skills into extra income (without totally burning out). If you’re wondering how to start a handmade business or sell your crochet and knitting projects online, you’re not alone. This guide will walk you through how to sell handmade items on Etsy, at craft fairs, and more. It is not about becoming the next craft empire (unless you want to); it is about finding the sweet spot between joy and income.

If you sell handmade items online, be sure you invest in good packaging. It makes a real difference to your customers. Find more tips from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

I have sold finished pieces, taught classes, and now I mostly stick to designing patterns and running my own cozy little corner of the internet. I stepped back from selling handmade items full-time because the returns, yarn costs, and time crunch made it tricky. That does not mean you cannot do it, and do it well. With a few smart strategies and realistic expectations, you absolutely can turn your fiber skills into a sustainable side hustle (or more).

Here is what I wish I had known when I started.

What Actually Sells (and Why It Matters) 🧶

What handmade knit and crochet items sell best?

The truth? Not every handmade item is worth selling. Focus on things that are:

Small and quick to make (such as hats, dishcloths, and headbands)
Useful or giftable
Seasonal (such as chunky scarves in fall and cotton washcloths in spring)

Pro tip: Check Etsy, craft fair booths, or social media for bestsellers in your niche. Do not copy, but take notes on what gets attention.

When starting to sell handmade items, research quick makes that you can stock up on like hats, mittens, or even handcrafted jewelry. Read more from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels

Where to Sell Your Fiber Art 🛍️

There are several places to sell handmade items online and in person (including Etsy, craft fairs, and social media marketplaces).

Selling Online

Etsy: Great for reaching a global audience. Take time to learn about tags, keywords, and product photography. Visit Etsy to read more about selling online there.
Facebook and Instagram: Work best if you already post your makes regularly. Learn more about selling on Facebook and Instagram in their guide.
Your Own Website: You are in control of your sales and returns on your own site. Especially if you already have a following, this can be your highest-margin option.
Amazon Handmade: Use caution here. While it offers broad visibility, the return policy can be risky for handmade sellers. I once had a hat returned with a jazz CD as a marketing ploy from a musician, and another time, someone returned worn earrings in the wrong box. I was out the fees and could not resell either. On the other hand, it’s great for reaching a global audience if you’re up for the high return rate.

Selling In Person

Craft Fairs: Local and fun, but physically demanding. Invest in a few cute signs and an easy setup.
Local Boutiques: Try consignment or wholesale (make sure you read the fine print).

Craft fairs are a fun place to sell handmade items. Make sure you price your items fairly based on your time and materials used. Sometimes, the price will be higher than customers like, but don't shortchange yourself.

Pricing Without Guilt 💸

Do not shortchange yourself just to make a sale. Here is what to consider:

Yarn and material cost
Hours spent making it
Your skill level
Market demand

A simple formula: (Materials + Hours Worked × Fair Hourly Rate) × 2 = Retail Price

And yes, your time is worth more than minimum wage.

Returns, Refunds, and Boundary Setting 🚫

Have clear policies and stick to them. Things to include:

No refunds on worn or custom items
Clear shipping and handling timeframes
How to handle lost or damaged packages

If someone pushes back, remember: being kind does not mean being a doormat.

5. How to Stand Out in a Crowded Market 🌟

A few easy ways to shine:

Take bright, clean photos (natural light is your friend)
Write descriptions like you are talking to a friend
Add a thank-you note, care tag, or freebie with each order
Use your unique story (your voice matters)

Is Selling Handmade Items a Good Idea?

Selling your handmade work is not for everyone, and that is okay. However, if you feel passionately, go for it! Start small, price fairly, and lead with kindness (to your customers and to yourself).

You are not just selling stitches. You are offering comfort, beauty, and creativity in every piece. And that is always worth something.

Designs You Can Sell

P.S. All of my patterns include a license to sell the handmade items you create from them (no extra fees or hoops to jump through). So if you are ready to start stitching for profit, you are welcome to use my designs! Get my Knitting Guide or Knitting the Simple Things (both books include 15 designs in all the sizes) or find all my digital pattern downloads on my knitting patterns page.

Liz Chandler's Knitting Guide: Learn to Knit with Practical Patterns.

If you’re looking for knitting patterns to sell at craft fairs or online shops, I’ve got you covered. Looking for some beginner-friendly patterns that are perfect for selling? Take a peek at my Knitting Patterns Collection. Simple projects like washcloths, hats, and scarves are great sellers, and they are even better when you make them your own. Try using your favorite yarn colors, add a few pom poms, some embroidery, or a fun tag to stand out. Your creativity is your secret weapon!

Here are five of my top knitting patterns that are especially popular for selling:

🧼 Double-Thick Washcloth Pattern – Quick, practical, and always a favorite at craft fairs. Bonus points if you are also a handmade soap maker (it’s the perfect bundle)!

🧣 Chunky Scarf Knitting Pattern – Quick to knit, extra cozy, and perfect for winter markets.

🧢 Basic Knit Hat Pattern – A wardrobe staple that’s perfect for custom orders.

🐣 Simple Baby Hat Pattern – Great for gifts and baby shower booths.

🧤 Fingerless Gloves Pattern – Stylish and useful, with room to personalize.

Feel free to use your favorite yarns and experiment with color combos. Add pom poms, embroidery, or even a little sparkle. Your handmade items should reflect your personality and style!

Shop Books and Patterns

March 24, 2025August 2, 2025

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Thriving with Native Plants

Pollinator-Friendly Gardening in the High Desert of Southwest Colorado 🌱

Gardening in the high desert of Southwest Colorado is not for the faint of heart, but let’s be real: neither am I. 😉 With scorching summers, bone-dry soil, and surprise frosts that show up like an uninvited guest, you have to work with nature, not against it. And that means going local. Native plants don’t just survive here; they thrive with minimal effort, leaving you more time to sip your iced tea and admire your handiwork. Plus, choosing native plants for high desert gardening ensures your landscape is pollinator-friendly and sustainable.

Yarrow and Honeybees 🍯🐝

If there is one plant that honeybees absolutely adore, it is yarrow (Achillea millefolium). With its delicate clusters of tiny flowers in white, pink, or yellow, yarrow is like an all-you-can-eat buffet for pollinators. This tough, drought-tolerant plant thrives in high desert conditions and keeps the bees happy all summer long. Plus, it doubles as a medicinal herb for humans, so you get a win-win situation with beauty, biodiversity, and practical uses.

Native plants in the southwest Colorado high desert, like yarrow, attract honeybees to your garden. They'll be happy and your plants will be pollinated. Learn more with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Native Plants That Laugh in the Face of Drought 🌵

After years of experimenting (and watching many ill-fated garden center plants meet their untimely demise), I have learned that native perennials, shrubs, and flowers are the best way to go. Native plants for high desert conditions are built tough, and they attract beneficial pollinators while requiring minimal water. Here are some of my all-time favorites:

Rocky Mountain Penstemon (Penstemon strictus): These bright purple-blue flowers are the life of the party, attracting hummingbirds, bees, and compliments from passersby.
Rabbitbrush (Ericameria nauseosa): If you need a plant that thrives on neglect and explodes in golden blooms in late summer, this one’s for you.
Serviceberry (Amelanchier alnifolia): Delicious berries and a great shade provider? It’s a win-win for humans and wildlife alike.
Apache Plume (Fallugia paradoxa): This beauty gives you delicate white flowers and feathery pink seed heads–like a desert fairy tale come to life.
Yucca (Yucca glauca): Tough, spiky, and fiercely independent–basically the Clint Eastwood of desert plants.

Yucca, which naturally grows as a native plant in southwest Colorado, produces a delicious fruit.

How to Find Pollinator Magnets for Your Region 🐝

Not all pollinators are fuzzy, friendly bees! Wasps may look intimidating, but they play an important role in your garden. If you take a peek inside the Rocky Mountain Penstemon at night, you might just find a wasp curled up asleep. While they might not be the first insects you want to befriend, wasps are fantastic at keeping aphids and other pesky garden pests under control. So, the next time you see one snoozing in a flower, give it a little nod of appreciation for its pest-control services.

Locally growing penstemon houses wasps overnight. Then they come into the garden to eat aphids and other little pests that might ruin your crops.

Want a buzzing, fluttering, nectar-drunk crowd in your garden? Creating a pollinator-friendly gardening space starts with choosing the right plants. Here’s how to find the best native pollinator-friendly plants, no matter where you are:

Check with Local Extension Services – Universities and state agricultural programs love handing out plant lists like candy.
Hit Up Native Plant Societies – These folks are the plant nerds you need in your life. Look up groups like the Colorado Native Plant Society for deep-dive resources.
Pollinator Partnership’s Plant Finder – Enter your zip code at Pollinator.org and get a custom guide. It’s like a dating app for plants and pollinators.
Ask Your Local Nursery – The good ones will steer you toward regionally adapted plants rather than big-box store heartbreakers.

Native Plants That Won’t Just Look Pretty, They’ll Feed You Too 🍓

If you want a garden that pulls double duty, consider these edible and medicinal natives that thrive in harsh conditions. Incorporating food-producing native plants into your high desert garden supports sustainability and self-sufficiency.

Chokecherry (Prunus virginiana): Tart berries for jams and syrups. Also, a favorite for birds who think they own your yard.
Prickly Pear Cactus (Opuntia spp.): Eat the pads, eat the fruit, and enjoy a plant that looks like it’s straight out of a Western movie.
Threeleaf Sumac (Rhus trilobata): Berries that can be brewed into a tea? Count me in.
Wild Onion (Allium cernuum): A native plant that gives you free onions? That’s a yes from me.

Chokecherries are another native fruit that grows on local trees and it makes amazing jam.

How to Keep Your Desert Garden Low-Maintenance 🤠

Mulch is your best friend. It conserves moisture and keeps invasive weeds from taking over your life.
Group plants that like the same conditions. Stop forcing your plants into bad relationships.
Ditch the pesticides. Native plants bring in the good bugs that eat the bad bugs–nature’s own pest control service.
Choose seed-grown natives over cultivars. Keep things wild and genetically diverse.

Embrace the Chaos and the Beauty of Native Gardening 🌿

Forget the picture-perfect English garden–out here, we let nature do its thing. Native gardening is about working with the land, not fighting it. Whether you are in the high desert like me or somewhere else, finding plants adapted to your region means less work, less water, and more joy. A pollinator-friendly gardening approach not only helps the environment but also makes your yard a haven for hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees. Start small, plant what thrives, and let the pollinators and wildlife move in. Just be prepared! Once your garden is popping, you may become that person who won’t stop talking about plants at dinner parties.

Erigeron speciosus
Erigeron speciosus (Lindl.) DC.
Aspen Fleabane, Showy Fleabane
Asteraceae (Aster Family) with a ladybug

🌻 My Accidental Wildflower Garden: A Busy Gardener’s Guide to Meadowscaping

🥕 Harvesting Carrots: A Mystery Critter and a Happy Haul

🌱 Building Your Backyard Garden from Scratch: Essential Tips for Success

🌿 Defeating Bindweed: A Gardener’s Battle

🐥 When to Move Chicks Outside: A Guide to Transitioning Chicken Pullets from the Brooder

🕷️ Tarantula Migration: A Unique Natural Phenomenon in Southwest Colorado

🧺 Shop My Favorite Gardening Tools and Decorations on Amazon (affiliate link)

Shop Books and Patterns

March 13, 2025March 13, 2025

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March’s Blood Moon 2025

Learn about the blood moon lunar eclipse with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

A Lunar Eclipse You Should Stay Up For 🌒

Let me tell you how much I love the stars. There is something about looking up at a sky full of them that makes everything else feel small in the best way. I have always been a stargazer, watching meteor showers, learning constellations, and tracking the moon through its phases. When a Blood Moon comes around, you better believe I will be outside watching every second of it.

On the evening of March 13 & 14, a total lunar eclipse will turn the moon a deep red. If you have never seen one before, this is your chance. It is one of those rare moments when the night sky puts on a show you will not forget. Now, we just have to hope the storm clouds clear enough for us to actually see it.

Blood moon over Mesa Verde National Park in Colorado, USA 2015 taken by Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

What Is a Blood Moon?

A Blood Moon happens when the Earth moves directly between the sun and the moon, casting a shadow that filters out all but the deep red and orange wavelengths of light. The result? The moon turns a stunning shade of red, glowing eerily against the night sky.

Unlike solar eclipses, you do not need any special glasses or equipment to watch a lunar eclipse. All you need is your own two eyes and a clear sky.

When and Where to See the Blood Moon Eclipse 2025

I will be out there, bundled up in a blanket, watching the whole thing unfold. Here is when to look:

Date: Night of March 13 into the early morning of March 14
Eclipse Begins: 9:57 p.m. MST
Total Eclipse (Best Viewing Time): 12:26 a.m. MST
Eclipse Ends: 4:00 a.m. MST
Where You Can See It: North America (weather permitting)

How to Get the Best View of the Blood Moon Eclipse 2025

Lunar eclipses are completely safe to watch with the naked eye, but if you want to make the most of it, try the following:

Find a Dark Spot. The farther from city lights, the better. If you can get out to a rural area, you will see much more detail.
Use Binoculars or a Telescope. The moon looks incredible during an eclipse, and a little magnification makes it even better.
Be Patient. The moon does not just turn red in an instant. It slowly changes over a few hours, so settle in and enjoy the process.
Take Photos. A smartphone on a tripod with night mode can capture some amazing shots. Or, if you have one, this is a great time to practice your nighttime photography with your camera and zoom lens.

Why This Blood Moon Eclipse Matters

Total lunar eclipses do not happen all the time. This is the last total eclipse North America will see until 2026, so if you miss it, you will be waiting a while for the next one. There is also something special about looking up at the sky and realizing you are watching the same moon as people across the world at the exact same moment.

For me, stargazing has always been a way to feel connected to something bigger. Watching the moon shift to red, with stars sparkling all around it, reminds me why I love the night sky so much. It is peaceful, awe-inspiring, and, for a little while, makes you forget about everything else.

Dark Skies for Best Viewing

If you are lucky enough to live near Mesa Verde National Park or another one of the country’s official Dark Sky Parks, this eclipse will be even more incredible. Dark Sky Parks are designated areas with minimal light pollution, meaning you will get the clearest, most breathtaking view possible. Even if you are not near one, do not worry; just head to the darkest spot you can find, and you will still get a great show.

How to Keep Dark Skies on Your Homestead

If you live in a rural area or on a homestead, you have the power to help protect the night sky from unnecessary light pollution. Even small changes can make a big difference in keeping the stars visible.

Use Warm, Low-Intensity Lighting. Harsh white or blue-toned lights scatter more and create more glare. Warm, yellow-toned lights are softer on the eyes and the sky.
Install Motion Sensors. Instead of leaving lights on all night, use motion-activated security lights. This keeps your property safe while reducing unnecessary light pollution.
Shield Your Lights. Downward-facing lights prevent excess light from spilling into the sky. Simple covers or shades can help direct light where it is actually needed.
Turn Off What You Do Not Need. If you do not need the porch light on, turn it off. A simple habit like this can help keep your night sky clear.

These small steps will not only help you enjoy better stargazing but also keep the ecosystem around you healthier. Artificial light affects wildlife more than we realize, and cutting down on excess lighting can help nocturnal animals navigate the night as nature intended.

Love stargazing as much as I do? Don’t forget to look up at tonight’s blood moon eclipse…

2025 Blood Moon Eclipse: Do Not Sleep Through This One!

If you can, stay up late for this. Wrap yourself in a warm blanket, grab a hot drink, and take a few minutes to look up. The universe is putting on a show, and it is absolutely worth watching.

If you are lucky, you might even be wrapped in a blanket you made yourself. Nothing beats stargazing under something handcrafted, whether it is a cozy knit shawl or a thick wool blanket. If you have not started one yet, now might be the perfect time. A hand-knit blanket will keep you warm through every celestial event to come, and who knows? By the time the next Blood Moon rolls around in 2026, you might have a new favorite stargazing companion.

Let me know if you will be watching. If you snap any photos, I would love to see them! Here is hoping for clear skies. 🌕

🙏 Gratitude Blanket Pattern: Cozy Comfort for Every Home

🍓 Planting Strawberries and Asparagus in Southwest Colorado

🌱 Planning to Garden This Year?

🌿 Building Your Backyard Garden from Scratch

🪴 Seedling Repotting

🌻 My Knitting Garden

Mountain Living Essentials

March 5, 2025March 5, 2025

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7 Knitting Myths That Might Be Holding You Back

7 Knitting Myths you should not believe. You can learn to knit with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Knitting is supposed to be fun, right? But thanks to a few lingering knitting myths, some people never even pick up the needles or, worse, give up too soon. Let’s unravel these myths and get you stitching with confidence.

Don't let these 7 knitting myths hold you back. You won't get all tangled up, you can learn to knit with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

1. 🚫 “Knitting is Just for Grandmas”

✅ Reality: Have you seen social media lately? Knitting is everywhere, and it’s for everyone. Cozy-loving homesteaders, edgy fashion designers, and creative minds of all kinds are picking up needles. Plus, have you ever met a grandma? They’re hardcore. If knitting is just for them, we should all aspire to be as cool as they are. 👵💞

2. 🚫 “You Have to Be Good at Math to Knit”

✅ Reality: If you can count to ten and do a little basic stitch tracking, you’re all set. Most of the “math” in knitting is just making sure you have the same number of stitches you started with. And if things go a little off? That’s just creative flair. 🧶💃

3. 🚫 “Expensive Yarn is Always Better”

✅ Reality: Just because it costs as much as your rent doesn’t mean it’s the best choice. Acrylic won’t betray you with a surprise felting incident in the wash, and budget-friendly wool blends can be just as soft as the fancy stuff. You don’t have to buy into this knitting myth. The best yarn? The one you’ll actually use. 🧵💰

4. 🚫 “I Don’t Have the Attention Span for Knitting”

✅ Reality: If you’ve ever scrolled social media for an hour instead of doing literally anything productive, you absolutely have the attention span for knitting. The trick is to knit while watching TV, listening to a podcast, or pretending to pay attention in Zoom meetings (Shhhh 🤫 I didn’t suggest that last one!). 📺🎧

5. 🚫 “You Have to Follow the Pattern Exactly”

✅ Reality: Patterns are like recipes. Some people follow them to the letter; others throw in a pinch of this and a dash of that. Want longer sleeves? Go for it. Hate the neckline? Change it. You’re the boss of your yarn. 📜✂️

6. 🚫 “Knitting Takes Too Long”

✅ Reality: You don’t need to spend months knitting a sweater to be a “real knitter.” Some projects take an evening; some take a year. Your stitches don’t expire if you set them down for a while. Start small, take your time, and if all else fails, a chunky yarn and big needles will have you cranking out projects at lightning speed. ⏳⚡

7. 🚫 “I’ll Just Finish This Row Before Bed”

✅ Reality: We both know you’re about to finish the whole sleeve and fall into a knitting-induced time warp where suddenly it’s 3 a.m. and your alarm is in four hours. Accept your fate. 🌙😴

Don’t Let the Knitting Myths Stop You!

Now that these knitting myths are officially frogged (for knitting newbies, that’s the fancy word for unraveled), what’s stopping you? Grab your yarn and needles. It’s time to knit without fear! 🧶✨

Some myths just need to be… unraveled. 🧶✨

Get Started Knitting Today

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How to Grow a Small Indoor Herb Garden

Learn to grow herbs indoors with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Easy Tips for Fresh Herbs All Year from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels🪴

It’s cold and icky today, and I miss my plants. So, I’m working on growing an indoor herb garden.

I picked up three little herb plants at the grocery store last week. It seemed like a great idea at the time. Sadly, the mint got powdery mildew and the basil came pre-loaded with aphids. The chickens got to eat the basil since it’s good for them and they don’t mind the little bugs, but the mint had to go in the trash because mold is bad for chickens.

Now it’s just me and the rosemary holding strong. Lesson learned: starting from seed is the best way to grow an indoor herb garden in soil. That’s what I’m doing today to get my winter plant fix. 🌿

Growing rosemary in an indoor herb garden adds a lovely smell and a great kitchen spice.

Why Grow an Indoor Herb Garden?

Beyond the obvious perks of having fresh ingredients at your fingertips, herbs are a whole experience. Just brushing your hand against a rosemary plant or pinching off a basil leaf releases a burst of fresh scent that can instantly lift your mood. They bring a little life to the kitchen, even in the dead of winter. Plus, growing an indoor herb garden means no mystery pesticides or surprise infestations – just fresh, happy plants ready to make your food (and your space) better. 🍃

Basil is an amazing plant to grow in your indoor herb garden. Here is potted basil pictured with knitting by Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Picking the Right Herbs

Some herbs thrive indoors, while others throw a fit and die. If you’re just getting started, go for low-maintenance, high-reward options like:

Basil – Loves warmth and plenty of sunlight.
Mint – Grows like wild but is prone to mildew, so give it some space.
Thyme – Hardy, aromatic, and great for soups and roasts.
Rosemary – Sturdy and resilient, assuming you don’t drown it.
Oregano – Perfect for Italian dishes and super easy to maintain.

Best Location for Your Indoor Herb Garden

Herbs are not high-maintenance, but they do have standards:

Light – Most need six hours of sunlight a day. A south-facing window is best, but a grow light works if your house is more cave than greenhouse.
Temperature – If you’re comfortable, your herbs probably are, too. Aim for 65-75°F.
Air Circulation – Stagnant air leads to mold. A little airflow keeps things fresh.

Keeping herbs like mint indoors can help keep pests (like this grasshopper) at bay.

Choosing the Right Containers

Herbs hate wet feet. Pick pots with drainage holes. If you’re using a decorative pot with no drainage, put a plastic nursery pot inside or add pebbles to the bottom to avoid root rot.

Best Soil for Indoor Herbs

Regular garden soil is too heavy. Use a light, well-draining potting mix. Mixing in a little perlite or sand helps with drainage, which means fewer sad, soggy plants.

How to Water and Feed Your Indoor Herbs

I prefer to water my herbs from the bottom, placing cute or plain white pots onto plates and watering the plate. This way, the plants take up only what they need, and I avoid soggy soil disasters. It also keeps the leaves dry, which helps prevent powdery mildew and mold.

When you grow an indoor herb garden, herbs are not thirsty divas. Stick your finger an inch into the soil. If it’s dry, water. If it’s damp, leave it alone. Overwatering is the number one killer of indoor herbs. A diluted liquid fertilizer every few weeks keeps them happy, but too much can make them grow fast and taste weak.

Upcycled baby food jars make for excellent herb watering cans. Learn how to remove baby food jar labels here.

Starting from Seed

Since my store-bought herbs turned into a disaster, I’m growing an indoor herb garden from seed. They take a little longer, but you avoid mystery pests and grocery store neglect. Use a seed-starting mix, keep the soil slightly damp (not swampy), and be patient. Some herbs, like basil, sprout quickly, while rosemary takes its sweet time.

How to Harvest Herbs for Maximum Growth

The best part? Snipping off fresh herbs when you need them. But don’t go hacking away randomly. Follow these rules:

Trim regularly – Pinch off leaves frequently to encourage bushy growth. Never let it flower, or the plant will start to decline.
Never take more than one-third of the plant – Keep it healthy and productive.
Harvest in the morning – This is when herbs have the most oils (aka flavor).

Flowering herbs are beautiful, but much less tasty. Try to pinch off the flowers before they open.

Troubleshooting Indoor Herb Gardening: Common Problems & Fixes

Leggy growth? Not enough light. Move them closer to a window or add a grow light.
Yellowing leaves? Overwatering. Let the soil dry out before watering again.
Mildew or mold? Increase air circulation and avoid getting the leaves too wet.
Aphids? Wash them off with soapy water or unleash the wrath of ladybugs.

Ladybugs love aphids... you may not want to actually set them free indoors. Rather, take your herbs outside on a nice day and let the ladybugs eat the aphids. — Ladybugs love aphids… you may not want to actually set them free indoors. Rather, take your herbs outside on a nice day and let the ladybugs eat the aphids.

Start Your Indoor Herb Garden Today

Growing an indoor herb garden is one of the easiest ways to bring a little green into your home. Plus, fresh herbs make everything taste better. Whether you’re dodging winter like I am or just want a steady supply of basil, growing herbs indoors is low-effort and high-reward. So, grab some seeds, plant something, and let’s pretend it’s spring! 🌿

Recommended Supplies for Growing an Indoor Herb Garden

Need supplies? Here are some of my favorite tools and essentials to get started (affiliate links to Amazon):

P.S.

It’s not too late to start your own seedlings for your summer garden! If you’re already thinking ahead to warmer days, now is the perfect time to get those seeds going. Check out my New Year’s Day seedling planting guide for tips on getting a head start on your best garden yet.

Plant seeds in little pots well before it is time to plant outside.

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