Today is a big milestone on the homestead – the ducklings first free-range day! Corvis (formerly known as Blondie) recently turned 4 weeks old, and the rest of the flock is just ahead of him at 5 weeks. They’ve been exploring the outdoors for the last couple weeks, but always inside pens. Today, we opened the gate and let them roam completely free for the first time, and they took off like they’ve been waiting for this day their whole lives. They wasted absolutely no time diving into the clover, darting through dandelions, and chasing every bug they could spot. They explored every inch of that yard, leaving no blade of grass untouched. Watching them roam, explore, and stretch their wings felt like a glimpse of who they’re becoming. They’re growing fast—more independent, more curious, and more confident every day. Soon enough, they’ll be fully feathered out and big enough to join the adult flock out back. But for now, this new front yard freedom is a perfect balance of freedom and safety – they’re able to soak up the sunshine, learn the land, and make the most of this new freedom while still staying safe. Watching them explore the wide world around them reminds me that growth doesn’t always happen in big leaps—sometimes it happens one small, joyful waddle at a time. Thanks for following along with the wild life on our little patch of land. Whether it’s ducklings, garden beds, or herbal remedies, there’s always something new growing around here. Curious about raising ducklings? Here’s a great guide to get you started.

I’ve been looking forward to making this one for about a week now. I ordered some yarn from the UK specifically for this little project—a crocheted rainbow keychain—and as soon as it arrived today, I finally got to sit down and make it. I had the keychain part ready and waiting, just needed the right colors to come in. I ended up working it up this evening, right before tucking the kids into bed. It was a quick make, but it turned out exactly how I pictured it—simple, soft, and colorful without being loud. Just one of those satisfying little projects that comes together at the end of a busy day. I’ll be adding a few to the shop soon, once I get a handful made. But for now, I just wanted to share this one while it’s fresh off the hook.

There’s something sacred about slow starts.This little blog won’t be flashy or fast-paced. Just like the life I’m building here on our homestead, it will be rooted in simplicity, intention, and grace for the process. Maybe one day I’ll look back and see how it all grew — post by post, season by season. But for now, it starts quietly.I don’t have a master plan for what this space will become. Some days it might be a how-to. Other days, a prayer or a recipe. I just want to share what’s real — the good, the gritty, the growth. So if you find yourself drawn to a life a little more grounded… welcome. You’re in good company here. “And aspire to live quietly, and to mind your own affairs, and to work with your hands…”— 1 Thessalonians 4:11