🏡 Homestead Month 1: The Essentials

30 Days Living Off-Grid — What’s Actually Helping Us Thrive

It’s officially been 30 days of living full-time on the land we now call home. I’ve been coming and going since January 31, but this past month marks a major shift: we’re here for good. Every sunrise, every starry night, every muddy boot print—this land is now ours to grow on, build on, and belong to.

But let’s be real: the first month of permanent homesteading? It’s not a slow, dreamy escape. It’s real. It’s gritty. It’s foundation-building—septic, water, power, and all the invisible essentials that make life work.

And still—we wouldn’t trade it for anything.

🛠️ The Setup So Far

Right now, we’re in the thick of installing a full septic system and long-term water access. It’s a process that’ll take at least 60 days—maybe longer.

We’re improvising daily. Making things work. Figuring it out. And through it all, we’re staying grounded thanks to a handful of small comforts that make a big difference.

We do have running water and a shower in our camper, which is a lifesaver—especially with three girls. But the truth? That setup gets well-used. So we’re also building a solar shower station for a little extra comfort and outdoor relaxation. Because sometimes, after a long day in the sun, you want a rinse under the sky.

☕ Homestead Helpers That Are Keeping Us Sane

Here are the essential comforts and go-to supplies that are getting us through the long days (and nights):

🌿 Moringa Tea & Mugwort Tea

Every morning starts with moringa tea—energy-boosting and immune-supportive. Evenings wind down with mugwort, perfect for calming the nerves and inviting vivid dreams after a hard day’s work.

🍄 Mushroom Calming Complex

Homesteading stress is real. This mushroom blend with calming adaptogens has been a lifesaver, helping me stay balanced and focused when the to-do list feels never-ending.

🥜 Healthy Snacks

Fast, nourishing snacks like protein bars, trail mix, and dried fruit are essential. You can’t trench pipes or move brush on an empty stomach.

🧼 Staying Fresh Without a Full Bathroom (Yet)

We’ve found a routine that works—even without a traditional bathroom setup (yet). Here’s what’s keeping us feeling fresh and human:

• Personal Care Wipes & Shower Wipes – Quick, effective, and surprisingly refreshing after hours of dusty outdoor work.

• Toothpaste & Mouthwash – Even without a sink, we’ve got our oral care routine down. Everything lives in a tote for easy access.

• Natural Deodorant – Because homestead labor = sweat, and I’d much rather smell like lavender than effort.

🌱 What I’ve Learned in 30 Days

Homesteading isn’t about picture-perfect moments. It’s about progress, not perfection.

It’s about walking into each day open to challenges, open to learning, and open to the joy of building something real—from the ground up.

The first 30 days have been muddy, magical, overwhelming, and freeing. We’re still just getting started, but this month has already shown us what’s possible when you’re fueled by grit, gratitude, and a little mugwort tea.

Here’s to Month 1—and everything we’ll grow from here. 💚