Hello Reader,

Storms are always a little scary on the homestead because losing electricity is pretty normal for us, but we’re prepared with a generator and a battery-operated backup sump pump. Or at least we thought we were prepared.

Illinois had a horrible storm Friday night, with tornado sirens going off and of course lost electricity. The generator failed, so Mike volunteered to sleep in the barn with Jennifer, who was getting close to giving birth. Without electricity the baby monitor doesn’t work so we would have no way of knowing when Jennifer was about to kid. And at 3 a.m. she did give birth to buck-doe twins. Unfortunately the battery backup sump pump failed so our basement wound up with several inches of water in it.

🐐🌱🐓

It can be alarming when a doe suddenly rejects her kid, especially if everything seemed fine at first. In this article, I explain why this happens, including common triggers like scent changes and separation, and what you can do to help them re-bond. In most cases, with a little patience and consistency, things can get back on track.

If you’re looking for a hardy, active chicken that does well in a variety of environments, the Hamburg is worth a closer look. In this article, I go over their temperament, egg production, and what it’s like to raise them. They’re a good option if you want a smaller, efficient bird that’s also a strong forager.

Turmeric is a flavorful and versatile plant that can be grown at home, even outside of tropical climates. This article walks through what turmeric needs to thrive and how to grow it successfully in containers or in the ground. Once you experience fresh turmeric, you may never look at store-bought the same way.

📄Chévre Recipe Chèvre is that soft goat cheese that most people generically call “goat cheese.” It is a delicious snack or appetizer spread on crackers or bread, and it makes a scrumptious sandwich when paired with grilled mushrooms and peppers. This recipe uses a direct set starter, making the process so simple that a 5-year-old could do it. Try this recipe!

Happy homesteading!

​
Deborah
and the ThriftyHomesteader Team

📚Want to Learn Even More?

• Did you know we have a Youtube Channel with over 700 videos? From goat care to soapmaking, cheesemaking, and more—you’ll find practical, real-life tips to support your homesteading journey.
• Looking to dive deeper? Visit the Goat Academy—your go-to resource for online courses on everything from goat health and nutrition to soapmaking, gardening, composting, and starting a homestead business. Whether you’re just getting started or want to level up your skills, there’s a course for you.
• Need ongoing guidance and community support? Goats 365 is our membership program that gives you full access to six comprehensive courses, live Q&A sessions, and an engaged group of goat owners who are learning and growing together—365 days a year.

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