With the Grain

How to Sow Seeds

Jenn Greenleaf — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 16:40:22 +0000

Even though most of the country is still experiencing cold weather and, where I’m from, starting ground gardening can’t happen until after the last frost. In the meantime, it’s important to get started on seed sowing, though.

Here are some links to lead you:

No matter if you’re a flower gardener, a vegetable gardener, or both it’s time to get those seeds started! This is, of course, unless you purchase plants that have already been started from your local nursery. Either option is completely fine and produce excellent results.

Refinishing Metal Patio Furniture

Jenn Greenleaf — Tue, 09 Mar 2010 12:21:57 +0000

As spring approaches, we’re coming up on a new season of maintenance and chores. This includes refinishing metal patio furniture. For those who are not able to store these furniture pieces under cover, this chore is often an annual event. However, for those who are new to this project, there may be some questions along the way.

Here are some links to lead you:

For specifics about how to refinish your patio, you may also be able to consult the home improvement center, store, or manufacturer the pieces were purchased from. Check any paper materials you may have kept when the pieces were purchased for website URLs and customer service phone numbers.

How to Build a Child’s Playhouse

Jenn Greenleaf — Wed, 03 Mar 2010 12:54:37 +0000

Weekend warriors and DIY experts alike can tackle building a child’s playhouse. There are a wide variety of sizes, styles, and floor plans to choose from ranging from novice builder to expert craftsman.

Here are some links to lead you:

As you can see, these projects can take on a very creative and complex twist depending on tastes and budgets. Go over ideas and plans with the entire family to ensure no one is dreaming larger than what the budget (or abilities) allows for.

No matter what skill level, it’s a great opportunity for family bonding during the building process. Teaching children the basics of building and the tools necessary to complete the task creates lasting memories.

How to Raise Pigs For Their Meat

Jenn Greenleaf — Tue, 02 Mar 2010 15:51:08 +0000

In keeping with the information being presented on this blog recently about self-sufficiency, we’re going to talk about how to raise pigs. Raising pigs isn’t as difficult as many believe.

Here are some links to lead you:

Be sure you have enough storage space in a large freezer or two small freezers when it comes time to slaughter. If you intend to sell the meat, be sure to thoroughly research all the permit and licensing rules, regulations, and requirements set forth by your town, city, county, and state.

How to Compost

Jenn Greenleaf — Sat, 27 Feb 2010 15:29:09 +0000

Self-sufficiency is on the minds of many consumers, particularly those who are already implementing the “reduce, reuse, and recycle” practice into their households. With these principles in mind, it’s a smoother transition into self-sufficiency.

Why? Because these homeowners are looking for ways to reuse household items and, in the case of composting, this is achievable.

Here are some links to lead you:

Composting is just one of the many ways homeowners can work toward self-sufficiency and reusing items. Good luck!

Cleaning Up After a Windstorm

Jenn Greenleaf — Fri, 26 Feb 2010 18:23:49 +0000

Windy weather, particularly when coupled with precipitation, causes moderate to heavy clean up for many homes across the country.

Here are some clean up tips for those suffering from frequent windstorms:

Keep a chainsaw on hand, and properly maintained, to clean up fallen trees and tree limbs.
For those instances where a large amount of debris is present, use of a dumpster may be needed.
Lawn tools such as heavy-duty push brooms, rakes, and shovels should be kept on hand for cleaning up and maintaining the property.
Contact a contractor should the need for roof repair come about, unless you’re experienced in this area.

Cleaning up after a windstorm can be very heavy work, so consider employing the help of friends and (or) family members.

How to Be Self-Sufficient at Home

Jenn Greenleaf — Wed, 24 Feb 2010 13:14:19 +0000

Let’s face it; being more self-sufficient should be touching most of our lives by now. However, taking this step is difficult for many. There are a number of ways to be more self-sufficient in our homes, and in an economy that’s struggling as ours is, it could help to explore and implement some or all of these strategies.

Here are some links to lead you:

Research this topic thoroughly before embarking upon costly home improvements or extensive DIY projects. Start small, and then work your way up. There may be grants available in your area, or low-interest home improvement loans geared toward projects such as these.

How to Build a Playhouse

Jenn Greenleaf — Tue, 23 Feb 2010 12:19:31 +0000

For those who are living in winter weather states, cabin fever is likely creeping up. Our home is no exception. We’ve been making plans and researching how to build a playhouse as soon as the winter weather ceases.

Here’s what we’re reading:

Building a playhouse does take some carpentry skill, but it’s not an impossible task. Weekend warriors can complete this project on their own, or with the help of experienced friends or family members. The key is to schedule the process out so this project doesn’t become overwhelming.

Spring Cleaning: Closets

Jenn Greenleaf — Mon, 22 Feb 2010 23:35:23 +0000

Spring is right around the corner and, for many homeowners, that means spring-cleaning. Part of this routine often includes cleaning out basements, garages, cabinets, and closets. Today, we’re going to focus on tips for spring-cleaning closets.

Here are some links to lead you:

Unless you’re a professional organizer or housekeeper, finding motivation to perform these tasks can be just as challenging as the task itself. Remember to start small and, if needed, employ the help of other family members or friends. If you do become overwhelmed, try scheduling these chores over the period of several days so it can be completed bit by bit over a period of time.

Tips For Cleaning Wood Floors

Jenn Greenleaf — Sat, 20 Feb 2010 14:25:10 +0000

If you’re new to having a hardwood floor, you’re likely wondering how to keep it clean without causing damage. There are a number of safe and effective ways to clean a hardwood floor without ruining its finish or causing other types of damage.

Here are some links to lead you:

Remember; above all else, wipe water and other liquid spills immediately. No matter how much cleaning you do, if the spills aren’t taken care of right away, they will cause damage. Good luck!