Hello Reader,

Whether you’re dreaming about adding animals to your homestead or already juggling daily chores, this week’s newsletter has something for you. We’re sharing honest, experience-based advice on raising ducks, goats, and chickens, along with a simple bread recipe to enjoy at home. You’ll also find a podcast episode on pregnancy toxemia and a video that clears up a common genetics myth we see shared often.

Raising chickens can be a rewarding step toward greater self-reliance, but it is important to know what you are getting into before bringing home those fluffy chicks. This beginner’s guide covers the key decisions you will need to make, from choosing the right breeds to understanding the real costs, space requirements, and long-term care involved. If you are considering a backyard flock, this article will help you start with confidence and clear, realistic expectations.

​Thinking about raising ducks? Before you bring home those adorable ducklings, there are a few things most people never mention and they can make or break your experience. This post shares the real lessons learned the hard way, from how messy ducks can be to why they’re still absolutely worth it in the end.

It’s easy to fall in love with baby goats and buy more than you planned—but starting with the right number can save you money, stress, and burnout. This article breaks down how many goats to start with based on your goals, whether you want milk, meat, or just happy herd companions. If you’re new to goats (or dreaming of your first herd), this will help you start smart and set yourself up for success.

🎧 Pregnancy Toxemia in Goats Pregnancy toxemia is a serious condition that can affect does in late pregnancy, posing risks to both the mother and her kids. In this episode, we discuss the causes, symptoms, and prevention of pregnancy toxemia, as well as steps to take if your goat is diagnosed. Listen in

▶ Double dwarf gene in goats? When kids don't gain weight as fast as their siblings, does that mean they have received a "double dwarf gene"? In this video, I discuss this assertion that has been spread around social media, particularly Facebook, and clarify why some kids don't gain weight as fast as their siblings. Watch video

📄French Bread Recipe Whether you’ve made lots of bread in the past or are completely new, you can create some lovely loaves this holiday season. Don’t be shy about doing something creative. Here is a simple French bread recipe that you can use to make baguettes, rolls, or a braid. Try this recipe!

🏡On the homestead...

On a personal goat note, reservations are now open for our 2026 kids! Last year, I never got our website updated because all of the kids were reserved before they were even born, and since we got two new outstanding bucks from Rosasharn Farm in Massachusetts this year, reservations are coming in even faster. You can check out our website to learn more about our goats. It is not updated yet, but if you're interested in reserving kids, please fill out the application.

Happy homesteading—and best wishes for a healthy, productive New Year!

​
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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