Homestead Swagger

09/13/2026

Today, we were processing grapes from our grapevines, boiling them down to make grape juice and grape jelly. Both of our daughters love the grape juice, especially when it’s freshly made.

They didn’t know we were making it today, and they usually don’t come upstairs. halfway through the process, I hear footsteps on the stairs and Olivia asks, “What’s that smell?” Luke tells her, “We’re making grape juice,” and she says, “I knew it! I knew it!”

Then both girls grab a glass and wait for the first taste.

Fresh grape juice is apparently all it takes to get them upstairs. ❤️

07/11/2026

If you are looking for a homestead or want to see what is possible inside of Des Moines- we are having an open house today 1-3pm

3207 Maish Avenue Des Moines IA

07/05/2026

04/22/2026

04/13/2026

The Increasing Land, Capital, and Market Access Program was slated to bring millions of dollars into Iowa, while supporting new farmers. Contracts were signed, fellows quit their jobs, and we were off to the races. Until suddenly, we weren’t. USDA abruptly pulled the funding in March with two days...

04/06/2026

🍅🍅 Tomato seed starting 🍅🍅

Tomatoes are one of the few plants I start early. I intentionally plant multiples in a pot as tomatoes are tougher than they look. They can be gently separated when transplanting and planted deep to encourage strong root growth.

A few tips:
• Give them plenty of light to prevent stretching
• Keep a gentle airflow to strengthen stems
• Transplant once they have a couple true leaves

One seed tray can turn into dozens of healthy plants with a little patience. Spring is coming 🍅🌱

10/18/2025

Had a great time this morning learning to forage for mushrooms. .and.spores

08/09/2025

This poor guy is going to die a horrible death… it’s amazing how nature tends to address problems if we just give it a chance.

08/06/2025

Cucumbers have been great this year, and I’m enjoying a favorite summer treat in refrigerator pickles…