Cedar Trace Farm is the name of our little homestead. We are located in Fauquier County, Virginia. Although, we have only a few acres, we grow and raise a lot of our own food. There is a profound satisfaction in knowing how to feed your family.
Of course, there are other intangible benefits of being a homesteader. There is the peace and quiet. There is the sense of well-being. The country is a great place to raise kids.
On our homestead, we have large vegetable gardens, strawberries, and blackberries. We raise ducks for meat and eggs. We also raise Shetland Sheep.
It didn't happen all at once. It takes time to develop the skills and know how. The first year I planted a garden just about everything died. We also learned to avoid somethings...ie, turkeys. We learned it is important to have a well stocked first aid kit on hand and a disaster plan in place.
We also learned of many rare and endangered breeds that are no longer popular because they are as suitable to large commercial farms. As a result, we began to focus on these breeds in order to conserve valuable genes. Most often, breeds that are not suited to factory farms are perfect for the homesteader.
If you are looking for resources or information, check out my Resources Page or the links listed below.
Links to other sites of interest to the homesteader...
the American Livestock Breeds Conservatory
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