On the homestead, we learn to treasure every part of the harvest. We celebrate the deep satisfaction of turning simple ingredients into nourishing meals. But some dishes do more than just feed the body; they tell the story of where you come from. For me, few things are as culturally meaningful as the Collard Sandwich—a true staple of my Lumbee heritage from North Carolina. If you’ve never had one, you might be picturing a cold-cut sandwich with a leafy garnish. Think again. T

Hi there! I'm Anastasia Oxendine, and if you're here, you're likely curious about a life that's a little more connected to the earth. Welcome! This space is where I share the journey of my family and me as we build a more self-sufficient life, one recipe and one new skill at a time. It All Started with a Few Chickens The dream of a homesteading life wasn't even on my radar, but it became my reality in 2020. My family and I took a leap of faith and purchased our first four ch

Updated: March 2026 Winter's frosty grip may have settled in, but inside us burns a powerful flame: our immune system. Keeping it stoked and vibrant is key to weathering the sniffles, sneezes, and sluggishness that can accompany the colder months. And what better fuel to add to this internal furnace than a potent elixir like fire cider ? ***Heads up! This fire cider recipe may include links to Walmart products I find helpful for gathering ingredients. If you click on a link a