Category: Rustic Living

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Piñon Gnats in Southwest Colorado

Learn about biting Piñon Gnats in Southwest Colorado. Find out out what they are and how to deal with them with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Why I Wear a Mesh Hat and Smell Like Cookies in June 🍪

Deep in the piñon forests of Southwest Colorado, there is a short season when the sun shines, the garden blooms, and the air bites back. Each year, without fail, between Memorial Day and the Fourth of July, the piñon gnats arrive.

They are not just annoying. They are tiny vampires with wings. You will not hear them. You will barely see them. You will just feel the sting. Then the bruise.

And if you hold still for more than a few seconds, they start to swarm. It feels like a dark, buzzing cloud has gathered just for you, relentlessly divebombing your head.

Even local veterinarians and service providers avoid our neighborhood during gnat season. They know what is waiting.

In June, my neighborhood looks like a beekeeping convention. Everyone wears mesh veils, wide-brimmed hats, and long sleeves. Not because we are tending hives, but because the bugs are tending to us.

Last summer, I made it worse. I painted the barn red. I am not a tidy painter. So when I go outside in full mesh bug gear, I do not look like a gardener. I look like someone with something to hide. It gives CSI: Homestead Edition.

Painting in a mesh hat can be a little awkward. But it is better than being eaten up by a swarm of biting bugs! Read more from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Gnat Behavior: When Are Piñon Gnats Active?

Textbooks say most biting midges are active at dawn and dusk, but not here. Piñon gnats prefer the full sun and dry heat of the day.

If I am quick, I can water the garden before 9 a.m. After that, it is over. They are awake, aggressive, and waiting.

And if you hold still for more than two seconds? Forget it. They swarm. You can feel them gathering in a black cloud around your face, ready to bite. That is when you stop watering and start running.

Quick Facts: What Are Piñon Gnats? You may have heard them called "no-see-ums," "biting midges," "punkies," or even "five-o'clock gnats," depending on where you live.

Quick Facts: What Are Piñon Gnats?

You may have heard them called “no-see-ums,” “biting midges,” “punkies,” or even “five-o’clock gnats,” depending on where you live. The name “no-see-um” is no joke. These biting midges are so small you often do not see them at all. By the time you realize they are there, they have already bitten you and vanished like tiny flying phantoms. And the vicious little beasts don’t even spare the dogs; if you’ve got blood, they’re all over you.

No-See-Ums love to nibble at dog's ears. Best to keep them inside as much as you can during the season. Read more from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels
This dog’s ears are covered in no-see-ums. Back inside we go!

What makes their bite so sneaky is how they do it. Piñon gnats do not pierce the skin like mosquitoes. Instead, they use tiny scissor-like mouthparts to slice into your skin. Then they lap up the blood. It is a brutal method for something so small, and you feel it almost instantly.

  • Piñon gnats are tiny biting midges (1 to 3 millimeters long).
  • Female gnats bite to draw blood for egg production.
  • The bite feels like a quick sting, not a poke.
  • The mark left is flat and bruised, not swollen or itchy.
  • They thrive in piñon-juniper woodlands.
  • They are most active in the heat of the day.

The Favorite Target: Why They Bite Eyelids

Some people get bites around their ankles. Not me. These bugs go straight for my eyelids. The thinnest, most sensitive skin on my body, and apparently their favorite. One even let me catch her in the act. I got a picture. Just a tiny black dot with bad intentions.

Piñon Gnats love to bite eyelids. These tiny little flies leave bruised spots behind. Read how to stop them with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Piñon gnat bites do not swell. They do not itch. They leave small, dark bruises that sting briefly and hang around for days. It looks like I lost a fight with my eyeliner.

A Piñon Gnat bit my eyelid. See the purple bruising? Much different than a mosquito bite. Learn more from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels

Piñon Gnat Survival Strategies: What Helps (Sort Of)

Let me be honest: nothing works perfectly against these bugs. I have tried everything I can think of, and most of it barely makes a difference.

I have tried it all.

  • Mosquito repellents (candles, sprays, and salves): Nothing works. Not against piñon gnats.
  • Vanilla extract: Smells like cookies and seems to repel the smaller ones. I dab it under my eyes, but be careful. Real vanilla contains alcohol and will burn if it gets too close to your eyes. I keep McCormick Vanilla Extract on hand for both baking and gnats. (Amazon Affiliate Link)
  • Sunglasses and wide-brimmed hat: These tiny biters have no problem getting under sunglasses and they enjoy biting up your hairline, too.
  • Mesh bug hat: The only thing that truly works. It is not stylish, but it gets the job done. Here is the mesh bug hat I use, and it comes in different colors! (Amazon Affiliate Link)

July 5: My Real Independence Day

I love the outdoors, my garden, and my chickens. But during piñon gnat season, I become an anxious houseplant.

I stay inside. I blink through mesh. I smell like a cookie. And I wait.

Because every year, like clockwork, they disappear the day after the fireworks fade. July 5 is my real Independence Day. That is when I can walk outside barefaced and finally feel free. 🎆

Until then, I will be under the silly hat or hiding inside.

Piñon Gnats are mean little bugs that love to bite your face. Wearing a mesh hat is the only way I've found to stop them. Read more from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Now, It’s Time to Relax 📺🧶💞

If you are stuck inside like me, it might be the perfect moment to pick up a new cozy skill. These are some of my favorite indoor knitting and craft projects. No mesh hat required.

🧶 Learn to Knit: Free Beginner Lessons: This step-by-step knitting course was made for true beginners. Each lesson includes photos and explanations so you can learn to knit with confidence.

🧣 Beginner Scarf Knitting Pattern: Practice your first stitches while making something useful. This garter stitch scarf pattern is relaxing and includes printable instructions in three sizes.

🛏️ Rice Stitch Blanket Pattern: Knit a textured afghan using simple knit and purl stitches. This blanket pattern includes two stitch variations, both with cozy results.

🌲 Cozy Lifestyle Inspiration: Warm up your home life with recipes, simple living ideas, and peaceful routines that bring calm to your day.

🎨 Cabin Crafts: Explore cozy crafts to keep you busy and entertained.

📍 Social Media: Find lots of inspiration collected in one place. Let’s connect!

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Knit Wasp Nest Decoy

A Free Knitting Pattern from Liz Chandler 🐝

So, I have a problem with wasps. Well, not really a problem; they are great helpers in the garden eating all the aphids. But, when they try to turn my sacred porch space into their new nursery, I get annoyed (or worse, stung). To keep these little stinkers out of my space I’ve designed a knit wasp nest decoy that should be weather-proof.

Last year, I tried the classic “paper bag trick” to keep wasps from nesting near the house. You know the one: crumple a brown paper sack to look like a wasp nest, hang it up, and hope for the best. It worked really well… until it rained. Then it just looked like sad trash blowing in the wind.

A wasp nest decoy made of brown paper works, but doesn't last. Try my knitting pattern to make a more weather-proof knit wasp nest decoy.

This year, I’m declaring war. I’ve been stung too many times, and I’m done playing nice. So I grabbed some UV-resistant paracord and knit myself a proper wasp nest decoy. I stuffed it with a gray trash bag for structure. Now, it’s tough enough for summer storms, realistic enough to fool territorial insects, and, let’s be honest, a lot more fun to make.

Wait… Do Fake Nests Actually Work?

Yes… for the right bugs.

Most hornets, paper wasps, and yellowjackets are extremely territorial. If they see another nest in the area, they usually back off and go find a less “claimed” spot, often hundreds of feet away.

To the wasps? This is an intruder’s home base.
To me? It’s a cozy little hot air balloon decoration with a purpose.

These wasps are great for the garden but terrible for porch living. Keep them from building a nest in unwanted places with a hand knit wasp nest decoy designed by Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

And unlike the paper version, this one:

  • Holds its shape through wind and rain
  • Won’t disintegrate in a week
  • Actually looks like the real thing (but without the buzz and bite)

If you get nests popping up on your home, put up a decoy. It may be just enough to make the wasp change their mind about their spot. Or, you might have to knock these little nests down (if you can’t do it safely yourself, contact a professional). Placing the decoy can make the wasps think whatever lives in the fake hive ruined their nest.

A paper wasp nest begins as a small grey honeycomb like structure.

What It Won’t Do

This won’t repel:

  • Ants
  • Mosquitoes
  • Bees (they’re unbothered by wasps)
  • Termites or ground dwellers

But if your porch or eaves are regular nesting sites for hornets or wasps, this might be just the nudge they need to build elsewhere.

Knit wasp nest decoy hanging on the porch. Get the free pattern from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Where to Hang It

  • Under eaves
  • Porch rafters
  • Barns, sheds, or garages
  • Any spot that’s been a favorite for wasps in the past

Choose a place that’s visible to flying insects but slightly sheltered. Early in the season is best. It is easier to deter wasps before nests are started.

How to Knit this Wasp Nest Decoy Pattern

This quick knit is worked in the round and shaped to mimic the tapered, layered form of a real wasp nest. It’s practical, weirdly charming, and deeply satisfying, especially if you’ve ever flailed around with a broom trying to knock a real one down.

Use a UV resistant nylon paracord for this project to keep it sun and water resistant. I chose a gray color, but light brown also works for this decoy. Then, stuff with a plastic bag to keep it’s shape.

Materials to Knit a Wasp Nest Decoy

Knitting Needles

Double Point Needles (DPNs)

Or Long Circular Needles

Yarn

One 100 Foot Hank of Paracord* (shown Paracord Planet Paracord color Diamonds), in your choice of color.

* Length estimated with Paracord Planet Paracord; other materials may vary. Does not include gauge swatch.

Tools

Gauge 

8 stitches x 10 rows = 4 x 4 inches in Stockinette Stitch on No. 10 (6.0 mm) needles.

Abbreviations

k = knit
p = purl
** = repeat the pattern between the asterisks
M1L = make one left [Pick up the strand between the stitch just worked and the next stitch from front to back with the left needle and knit into the back of it.]
k2tog = knit two together

Paracord and US No. 10 knitting needles will get you started on making your own wasp decoy. Get the free pattern from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Instructions: Wasp Nest Decoy

(measures 6 inches [15.24 cm] tall by 5 inches [12.7 cm] wide)

This project is knit from the top down. Use the Long-Tail Cast On method. Knit in the round. For Double Point Needles, follow DPN instructions written in italics. For circular needles, follow Magic Loop instructions written in bold. If desired, use a stitch marker to keep track of the beginning/ends of your rows/rounds by placing it between the last and first stitch of each row/round.

[Using DPNs or long circular needles] Row 1: Cast on 6 stitches. Divide onto 3 DPNs (2 on each DPN). Or separate stitches on long circular needles for Magic Loop (3 on each side). (6 stitches)

Row 2: Join the round (taking care not to twist stitches) and k 6. (6 stitches)

Row 3: *k, M1L* x 6. (12 stitches)

Row 4: k 12. (12 stitches)

Row 5: *k, M1L* x 12. (24 stitches)

Row 6: k 24. (24 stitches)

Row 7: *k, M1L* x 24. (48 stitches)

Rows 8 – 11: k 48. (48 stitches)

Row 12: *k 2, k2tog* x 12. (36 stitches)

Row 13: k 36. (36 stitches)

Row 14: *k, k2tog* x 12. (24 stitches)

Rows 15 – 17: k 24. (24 stitches)

Row 18: *k, k2tog* x 12. (12 stitches)

Row 19: k2tog x 6. (6 stitches)

Turn wrong-side (purl-side) out.

Cut yarn and draw through remaining 6 stitches.

Bring the yarn tail from the bottom of the project through to the inside up towards the top. Tie both yarn tails together to create a loop that can be used to hang the decoy.

Stuff the decoy with a plastic bag or your desired weatherproof filling.

Printable version of this free knitting pattern

Printable Free Wasp Nest Decoy Knitting Pattern PDF by Liz @PurlsAndPixels

Learn to knit a weatherproof wasp decoy with Liz Chandler's free pattern at PurlsAndPixels.

⚠️ Quick Disclaimer:

This project is a preventive trick, not a full-on wasp removal plan. It may deter hornets, paper wasps, or yellowjackets, especially if used early in the season before nests are built. But if you’ve already got an active infestation, please don’t try to knit your way out of it.
Call a pest control professional to handle the sting-y stuff safely.

Enjoy your relaxing porch time by keeping yellowjackets from building their own nests. Use a decoy knit yourself with a pattern from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Liz Chandler of PurlsAndPixels.

This pattern is for personal use, gifting, and charitable donation of completed items. You may also sell handmade items created using this pattern. Do not copy this pattern and distribute it. If you’d like to share the pattern, refer your friends to my website, purlsandpixels.com so they may obtain a copy.

If you find any errors or have any questions, email purlsandpixels@gmail.com and I will do my best to help.

I’d love to see your finished work! Tag your photos with @PurlsAndPixels on Twitter or Instagram.

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Colorado’s False Spring

Learn why Colorado's false spring means you need to wait to plant your garden. Don't let the weather fool you. Read Liz Chandler's gardening tips at PurlsAndPixels.

Hold your Tomatoes, Folks; It’s Not Time to Plant Outside Yet! 🌱❄️

If you’re anything like me, the first warm breeze of Spring makes you itch to get your hands in the dirt. The snow melts, the sun peeks out, and for a moment, it feels like Mother Nature is giving you a green light. Spoiler alert: she’s not. She’s messing with you. Welcome to Colorado’s infamous false spring.

Colorado's false spring can trick you into planting and irrigating a bit too soon... then you get ice coated plants, fences, and trees. Read Liz Chandler's gardening tips at PurlsAndPixels.

What Is a False Spring?

A false spring is that tricky period when warm temperatures arrive early, coaxing plants (and gardeners) out of hibernation; only for a late freeze or snowstorm to swoop in and cause damage. In Colorado, it’s not just a possibility; it’s basically tradition.

We can have 70+°F days in April and still get hit with a blizzard in May. I’ve seen lilacs blooming one day and encased in ice the next. I’ve also seen far too many eager gardeners lose entire crops of tomatoes, squash, and peppers because they planted during this sunny bait and switch.

Yesterday, May 13 was a beautiful 73 degree afternoon. Then the weather app dropped a freeze alert for the next few days. False spring is real.

So When Can I Plant Outside?

The golden rule of all gardening? Wait to plant outside until after your average last frost date. That applies everywhere, but in Colorado, it’s non-negotiable. Especially in the high mountain desert, dry winds, wild temperature swings, and random snowstorms are the norm. That could mean waiting to plant outside until much later than you might expect. In Colorado, for example:

  • Lower elevations (Denver, Pueblo): around May 15
  • Mountain towns (above 7,000 feet or so): usually June 1 or later

I know. It’s painful to wait. But trust me: planting too early isn’t just risky; it’s wasteful. Your starts might survive a frost with row covers, but they won’t thrive. Cold-stunted plants = lower yields and more heartbreak.

⬆️ Not sure of your frost date? Check your local zone here.

Even the trees can be fooled by Colorado's false spring. Even if the fruit trees are blossoming, we can still get a late snow and freeze the buds. Read Liz Chandler's gardening tips at PurlsAndPixels.

What Can You Do Instead?

You don’t have to sit on your hands. Here’s what I do during false spring:

About Those Hoses & Sprinklers

Around here, plenty of home gardeners and ranchers are already watering during the day: sometimes we have to with our dry climate. While ranchers’ irrigation setups can usually handle a bit of freezing, your garden hose and outdoor spigot probably can’t. If you’re watering this time of year, make sure to unhook your hoses and sprinklers at night. A quick dip below freezing is all it takes to crack a faucet or split a hose. It’s one of those little habits that can save you a big headache when real spring finally sticks around.

Irrigation sprinklers often freeze up in the early months of spring. Don't plant outside durring false spring - your garden plants can't tolerate the cold. Read more from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Tools I Actually Use (and Love)

Living pretty far from the hardware store, I get a lot of my gardening gear on Amazon. Find a full list of my favorite gardening finds on Amazon (affiliate link):

Shop Liz Chandler's garden tool recommendations like a kitchen top planter, seed kit, or digging tools with these affiliate links.

PSA: Don’t Let the Internet Rush You Planting Too Soon

Every spring, the internet lights up with planting pics, lush gardens, and early harvests from warmer places. Don’t let it fool you into jumping the gun. Just because someone else is posting bean sprouts doesn’t mean it’s planting time here. Use this season to plan, prep, and get inspired. When the nature is ready, you’ll be more than ready to start humming along.

Your full summer garden is just around the corner, flowers, hummingbirds, and all. Read more from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Don’t be Fooled by Some Beautiful Spring Weather

If you’re gardening in Colorado, the best thing you can grow in early spring is patience (and maybe some spinach). False spring is beautiful but brutal. So take a breath, sip your coffee, and wait it out.

Then, when the real spring arrives? You’ll be ready; and your plants will thank you.

Snow falling on tulips is a frequent sight in Colorado. False spring tricks plants into blooming, then drops a surprise cold snap, nearly every year. Read more from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

🪴 Growing an Indoor Herb Garden

🌱 Planning to Garden This Year? Start Here! 

🌿 Building Your Backyard Garden from Scratch

🥕 Harvesting Carrots: When and How to Pick Your Crop

🌱 Starting Seedlings: A New Year’s Guide

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

Learn how an old, worn-out kid's shirt can make a excellent dust mask substitute in a pinch. Tip from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels on homestead chicken coop cleaning.

Because sometimes the best gear is already in your laundry pile. 👕

Cleaning the chicken coop is not glamorous, but it is part of the homestead routine. It goes right alongside gathering eggs and keeping an eye on that one suspicious rooster. If you have ever stepped into the coop on a dry day, you know how quickly dust can rise and coat everything, including your lungs. I always wear a dust mask, but this time I was in a pinch and needed an alternative.

This week, I needed a dust mask and did not have one. In search of an alternative, I scoured the house to find something to substitute. What I found was a pile of old kid clothes destined for the rag bag.

Enter: the humble, worn-out toddler tee. This old kid’s shirt made a great dust mask substitute. (And please don’t mind my oh-so-glamorous hairstyle – I am about to clean a chicken coop after all. 💅)

🧼 How to Make a Dust Mask from a Kid’s Shirt

This kid’s shirt dust mask is definitely not Pinterest-perfect. This is real life and ready-to-go. No sewing necessary.

Here is what I did:

  1. Grabbed one of my son’s outgrown cotton T-shirts (bonus points for stains).
  2. Pulled it over my head like a scarf, then up over my nose and mouth.
  3. Tucked the collar over my ears for a snug fit. (No ear loops? No problem.)

And just like that, I had an instant dust barrier. I added a pair of sunglasses to keep the dust out of my eyes, which made the whole setup feel almost intentional. Sure, it is not OSHA-approved, but it kept the coop dander out of my face and let me breathe much easier.

Disclaimer: This setup is no N95, and I doubt it keeps out germs. But for the dusty chore I was doing, it was certainly better than nothing.

👕 Why This Works

  • Cotton is breathable yet still filters most of the floating feathers, fluff, and straw particles.
  • T-shirts are stretchy, so they provide a comfortable fit without pinching.
  • It is reusable. Hose it off, toss it in the laundry, and use it again.
Homestead tip: a worn out toddler shirt works as a dust mask in a pinch. 👕🐣 #homesteadlife

🐣 Bonus Tip

This method also works well when stirring compost, mowing dry fields, or handling dusty hay.

If you are looking for ways to clean your chicken coop without store-bought masks or expensive gear, this easy DIY hack can help you breathe easier and save money.

🌾 Real Homesteading Is About Resourcefulness

You do not need expensive equipment to do the job well. Often, all you need is something clean-ish, soft, and stretchy.

Homestead cleaning hack using kid's shirt and sunglasses a tip from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

And those stained, worn-out shirts that are too rough for Goodwill donations? They are perfect for this task.

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Enjoy homesteading and gardening tips like this dust mask alternative? Explore more small farm content:

🌱 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)

🌸 Defeating Bindweed: A Gardener’s Battle

🥕 Harvesting Carrots

🏡 Cozy Lifestyle Basics: Mountain Living Edition

🧺 Shop Liz’s Favorite Homestead Supplies on Amazon (affiliate link)

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✨ Never Miss a Homestead Story 

Join my newsletter for exclusive patterns, homesteading tips, and wildlife updates! 💌

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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. 🌕

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🪴 Seedling Repotting

🌻 My Knitting Garden

🍓 Planting Strawberries and Asparagus in Southwest Colorado

🌸 Defeating Bindweed: A Gardener’s Battle

🥕 Harvesting Carrots

Mountain Living Essentials

Home & Garden DIY
Rustic Living Tips
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✨ Never Miss a Homestead Story 

Join my newsletter for exclusive patterns, homesteading tips, and wildlife updates! 💌

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Living with Mountain Lions

A Colorado Homesteader’s Guide to Wildlife Coexistence 🏔️ 🦁

When you choose to homestead in the Colorado mountains, you sign an unspoken agreement: this is mountain lion territory, and you’re the guest. It’s a reality of rural living, and honestly? It’s one of its greatest lessons.

As a Colorado homesteader on 8 acres surrounded by dense woods and wildlife, I’ve learned a lot about sharing space with these elusive predators. Recently, I gained a deeper understanding when I discovered something remarkable: a mountain lion cache right on my property.

AI generated image of what my mountain lion probably looks like. My lion (thankfully!) will not let itself be seen.
AI generated image of what my mountain lion probably looks like. My lion (thankfully!) will not let itself be seen.

What is a Mountain Lion Cache?

For those unfamiliar, a mountain lion cache is essentially a food storage site. These big cats will cover their prey – often a deer – with leaves, dirt, or snow to preserve it for future meals.

Finding a cache near my home was both startling and humbling. The lion had dragged its prey across my driveway and into the woods, where it carefully stashed the carcass to keep it safe and fresh. It reminded me of how a human hunter might put a deer in the freezer to preserve it for later use.

This act wasn’t random; it was an intentional survival tactic. By moving its meal to a secluded spot, the lion ensured it could return to feed without competition or threat.

What’s even more humbling? This mountain lion has been patrolling this territory for years. This was it’s home before it was mine; my house was built just five years ago. In a way, I’m the newcomer here, and this lion is one of the true locals.

Yes, this is my yard. But it is also home to mountain lions, bears, coyotes, deer, rabbits, and other native Colorado wildlife.

Why Mountain Lions Cache Prey Near Homes

Mountain lions require expansive territories to hunt and survive. My homestead happens to fall within this lion’s range.

What’s amazing is how stealthy they are. Despite having security cameras, I’ve only caught brief glimpses. The motion sensors occasionally trigger, but by the time the camera starts recording, the lion is gone. Their ability to move undetected is both eerie and awe-inspiring.

I chose to leave the cache undisturbed. While unsettling at first, this decision reflects my respect for the mountain lion’s role in maintaining balance in our ecosystem. This is their land too, and they deserve to be here.

I did make sure to warn my neighbors of the activity, so they were aware and able to take the necessary precautions (like don’t play in the woods after dark and watch pets more closely).

A view into my dense forest; the perfect home for a mountain lion to live its life.

A Word of Caution: When to Call for Help

While mountain lions are naturally shy and avoid humans, there are times when it’s necessary to contact wildlife protection officials:

🛑 If a mountain lion shows signs of unusual behavior, like allowing itself to be seen, entering secured areas to get at pets, or hunting humans, it could certainly pose a threat.

🛑 If you find a cache and notice the animal lingering nearby during the day or acting aggressively, call for assistance immediately.

Wildlife should be respected, but your safety always comes first.

Mountain lions live in wooded areas because their natural food sources live here as well, like the heard of mule deer that wander my property most of the year.

Living Safely in Mountain Lion Country

Homesteading in the wilderness means adapting to coexist with nature. It’s about more than beautiful views and cozy cabins. It’s a commitment to understanding and respecting the land and its native predators.

Mountain Lions’ Role in the Ecosystem

  • 🦌 Deer population control: Mountain lions prevent overgrazing by keeping herds in check.
  • 🌿 Healthy ecosystems: Predators like lions ensure balance in the natural food chain.

Practical Coexistence Strategies

  • 👀 Stay alert: Be especially cautious during dawn and dusk when lions are most active.
  • 🐕 Protect pets: Keep animals indoors or close to home during peak wildlife hours.
  • 🛠️ Secure your property: Store trash and pet food properly, and keep outdoor spaces well-lit.

Tips for Mountain Lion Country Residents

  • Install motion-sensor lighting to deter wildlife.
  • Maintain clear sightlines around your property by trimming back dense vegetation.
  • Secure animal feed and other potential attractants.
  • Be extra vigilant with pets, especially in the early morning or late evening.

Find my Homestead Essentials shopping list (where you can find this security camera) on Amazon (affiliate link).

Motion activated security lights and cameras are a helpful way to monitor mountain lion behavior on your property. Get more tips from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

The Reality of Rural Living

Social media often glamorizes mountain life with filtered photos of snow-capped peaks, cozy fires, and idyllic homesteads. But real rural living is more than just aesthetics. It’s about embracing the unfiltered beauty of nature, including its challenges, like living with mountain lions.

Sharing space with apex predators like mountain lions is both humbling and rewarding. Their presence is a sign of a thriving ecosystem, and it reminds us of the delicate balance we’re a part of.

Living near the woods means living with mountain lions and other predators. Learn to co-exist with tips from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

A Lesson in Coexistence

Instead of seeking to remove the mountain lion near my property, I’ve chosen to respect its role. The cache it left behind, and its decision to drag prey across my driveway to a hidden spot, was a reminder that nature doesn’t operate on our terms. And that’s as it should be.

Each day on my homestead brings new opportunities to learn and grow. Whether I’m knitting by the window, keeping an eye on my surroundings, or tending to daily chores, I’m grateful for this connection to the natural world. Even its more formidable inhabitants. 🐾

Living with mountain lions and other wildlife is authentic homesteading: no filters, no shortcuts, just respect for the land and all who call it home.

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

Keep Your Homestead Running Smoothly (Even When Life Feels Chaotic) with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Running a homestead can feel like a never-ending list of things to do, especially when life’s other demands creep in. But if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that keeping things simple usually works best. Here are five ways to make sure your homestead doesn’t just survive, but thrives, no matter what the day throws at you.

1. Make a Plan, But Be Ready to Improvise

Every day starts with a plan, at least, in theory. I always have a mental list of what needs to happen, whether it’s feeding the animals, pulling weeds, or trying to convince the chickens to lay their eggs in the coop, not the garden (they have their own opinions, of course).

Let Liz Chandler @ PurlsAndPixels help you stay organized even on busy days. To do Lists help with running your homestead.

Plans are great. Flexibility, though? Essential. Think of it like a recipe: you follow the instructions, but you know when to add a little more spice.

2. Do What You Can, When You Can

I’ve found that homesteading is all about momentum. You don’t have to clear the whole garden in one day. Just start where you are – harvest one row of carrots today, maybe the squash tomorrow – and keep moving forward. It’s like knitting: you don’t finish the sweater in one sitting. But stitch by stitch, row by row, things come together.

When running your homestead feels hectic, remember to take on one little task at a time. Harvest some carrots, then move to the next step.

You’ll be surprised at how quickly it adds up if you don’t count every minute.

3. Let Systems Do Some of the Work

There’s a reason drip irrigation is a thing. The more you can automate, the less you have to remember, and frankly, there’s already enough rattling around in our heads. Setting up systems, whether it’s a watering timer or a routine for feeding the animals, creates a little breathing room for the unexpected. Because something will always come up.

And when you have that moment of extra time, use it wisely. Or just sit down. Sitting counts.

Find ways to automate your homestead systems, so running your farm and home don't take up all your time. It's ok to relax. Learn more tips with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Did you know that you can automate so many things on the homestead?

Here is a list of my favorite time-saving homestead gear on Amazon.com. Hopefully, one of these things will save you a bit of time!

4. Community Is Your Best Resource (Even If It’s Online)

We all like to think we can manage it all solo, but even the most independent among us benefit from a little help now and then. Maybe your neighbor has a tip for getting rid of bindweed forever, or maybe your kid has discovered a faster way to gather eggs. Either way, sometimes a fresh perspective or extra set of hands makes all the difference in keeping your homestead running smoothly.

Tips for Navigating Challenges with Animals, Land, and Nature when You’re the only Adult running a homestead. I know you want to do it all, but take help when you can.

You don’t have to be an island just because you want to live a quieter homestead lifestyle.

5. Celebrate the Wins, However Small

Sometimes the victory is in the details. Maybe you finally got the hens to stay in their pen for a full 24 hours (we’ll call that a miracle), or you managed to bake a loaf of bread without the dough sticking to everything in the kitchen. Whatever the win, take it. Celebrate it! After all, if you don’t, who will?

Celebrate the small wins on hectic days. Look! I got a green egg! Read more about homesteading under pressure from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

And besides, the next challenge is always waiting as you keep your homestead running. Might as well enjoy this one while it lasts.

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Tarantula Migration

Tarantulas Wandering in Southwest Colorado: A Unique Natural Phenomenon

Every fall, a fascinating event unfolds across the plains and foothills of Southwest Colorado—the annual tarantula migration. It’s a natural spectacle that draws attention not only from local residents but also from nature enthusiasts and curious onlookers from across the country. While the thought of hundreds of large, hairy spiders might send shivers down some people’s spines, the tarantula migration is actually an incredible and harmless display of nature at work.


What Is the Tarantula Migration?

Tarantulas Wandering in Southwest Colorado: A Unique Natural Phenomenon

The tarantula migration is not a migration in the traditional sense, where animals move long distances for survival or food. Instead, it’s a seasonal event where male tarantulas—most commonly the Aphonopelma hentzi species—emerge from their burrows in search of mates. These bachelors are driven by one purpose: finding love before the end of their short adult lives. Think of it like nature’s speed dating, but with way more legs and a lot less talking.

Starting in late August and continuing through October, the males set out at dusk, bravely trekking across fields, roads, and even hiking trails in their quest for romance. While this phenomenon occurs throughout the southwestern U.S., Southwest Colorado—particularly around La Plata and Montezuma Counties—offers a prime viewing opportunity for those wanting to witness this spidery love parade.

Why Do Tarantulas Migrate?

The male tarantulas, typically between 7 and 10 years old, have spent their lives underground, feeding and molting in their solitary burrows. But after years of being single, they’ve had enough and emerge during the fall to search for that special someone—because even spiders can’t resist the call of love. Mating is their one and only mission now, and after they find a mate, they’ve basically checked off their entire bucket list.

Females, on the other hand, are much more grounded (literally and figuratively). They prefer to hang out in their burrows, waiting for Mr. Right Now to wander by. With a lifespan of up to 20 years, they take their time, knowing the males will come knocking. Unfortunately for the guys, some of these spider dates don’t always end well—cannibalism is a real possibility. Talk about a high-stakes romance!

Where to See the Migration

In Southwest Colorado, several areas are well known for good tarantula spotting. The flat grasslands between Cortez and Durango, particularly around Highway 160, are a great place to witness the migration. It’s not uncommon to see these large, slow-moving romantics crossing roads or meandering through open spaces, likely dreaming of the perfect spider wedding.

For those who wish to experience the tarantula migration, it’s best to go out just before sunset, when the males become more active. Be sure to bring a flashlight if you plan to stay after dark, as the tarantulas tend to be most active at dusk and into the early evening hours.

Are Tarantulas Dangerous?

Despite their intimidating size and appearance, tarantulas are generally not dangerous to humans. Sure, they look like they could headline a horror movie, but they’re just hopeless romantics in search of a mate. While they can bite if threatened, their venom is mild and typically not harmful beyond a bee sting in terms of pain or reaction. They’re much more interested in finding love than engaging with humans, so if you come across one, it’s best to observe from a respectful distance and let them continue their search for spider soulmates.

Tarantulas also play an important role in the ecosystem, keeping populations of insects and small invertebrates in check. Their presence is a reminder of the often-overlooked importance of spiders in maintaining balance in nature—whether they’re swiping right on their tarantula Tinder or not.

How to Enjoy the Tarantula Migration Safely

If you plan to observe the tarantula migration, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure both your safety and the well-being of these eight-legged Casanovas:

  • Watch from a distance: Tarantulas are delicate creatures. Avoid picking them up or disturbing them on their journey for love.
  • Drive carefully: If you’re on the road, be mindful that tarantulas are slow-moving, and it’s easy to accidentally run them over. Drive cautiously in known migration areas, especially during the evening.
  • Respect their habitat: Stick to trails and paths, and avoid trampling through their natural habitats. Many of these areas are fragile ecosystems.

Ready for Love

The tarantula migration in Southwest Colorado is a remarkable event that showcases the beauty and complexity of nature—and the romantic desperation of male tarantulas! For a few short weeks each fall, the region’s rugged landscape comes alive with these gentle giants, each hoping to find love before time runs out. So, whether you’re a spider enthusiast or simply curious about the natural world, the tarantula migration is a spectacle worth seeing—if you’re brave enough to witness nature’s ultimate matchmaking event.

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