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What happens when life throws a series of unexpected events your way, and how do you adapt to maintain stability on a homestead? We share our personal journey through family milestones, particularly a recent wedding, while simultaneously navigating the challenges of my mother's health as she transitions to living with us. Amidst these personal shifts, the homestead faced a severe drought, forcing us to feed hay earlier than anticipated. However, the rains have finally come, offering relief and hope as we work to restore our routine and prepare for the colder months ahead.

Our commitment to sustaining our homestead's productivity is more crucial than ever, pushing us to diversify our ventures and support community projects. Join us as we explore the excitement and trials of raising 130 Jumbo Cornish X-Rocks meat birds with neighbors and the joy of discovering the deliciousness of Jumbo Pekin Ducks. We're also planning for expansion, with the addition of American Bresse chickens and the prospect of Emden geese, all while gearing up for Thanksgiving and the changes to the Self-Reliance Festival in 2025.

In the spirit of resilience, we delve into winter preparations and the wisdom of sustainable living, inspired by a vibrant 95-year-old's unconventional health philosophy. Our journey includes participating in events like the Kentucky Sustainable Living gathering, where we share insights on topics like family milk cows. The recent catastrophic weather events have humbled us and reminded us of our purpose. Our focus remains on community support and readiness. As we continue to grow and adapt, we're reminded of our humble beginnings and the ongoing journey toward a self-reliant and fulfilling life on the homestead.

Today's sponsor: Hamilton Gorham & Duncan,  PLLC
Located in Bellevue, TN at 161 Belle Forest Circle. 615-467-3200.  Go see attorneys, Tee Gorham or Jad Duncan for all your family's legal needs. Tell them you heard about them on this podcast!

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Ever wondered about the real dynamics between traditional farmers and modern homesteaders? Join me, Dawn Gorham, along with my special guest Stephanie Tallent, as we uncover the deep-seated tensions and profound shifts within the world of agriculture. We promise you'll gain valuable insights into how corporate influence has shaped contemporary farming practices, and how homesteaders are pushing back with a holistic, self-sufficient approach. We also discuss how homesteaders might want to check our attitudes at the door. 

Stephanie and I also dive into the fascinating yet contentious world of raw milk farming. You'll hear personal stories that highlight the evolving perceptions of raw milk, the contrasting realities between small-scale and industrial dairy operations, and the unique regulatory challenges faced by farmers. We discuss the growing direct-to-consumer demand for raw milk and the philosophical shift towards a more personalized approach to food and healthcare.

Lastly, we explore the diverse ideologies within the homesteading community, touching on everything from natural and herbal methodologies to more conventional practices. We talk about the critical importance of learning from experienced farmers, the need for preparedness in emergency situations, and share exciting updates from our own farms. This episode is packed with real-life experiences, practical tips, and heartfelt reflections that you won't want to miss!

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Have you ever wondered what it takes to ensure the safety of raw milk on a homestead? Join me on Keepin' it Real as I share my journey of learning to draw blood from our cows for regular disease testing, and our excitement as we await the A2 status results. You'll also get a close look at the challenges of managing maturing turkeys and a tough encounter with a steer and a permanent weaning ring. This episode is packed with valuable insights on resilient living and the practical steps you can take to prepare for unpredictable times.

Building a new farm community can be daunting, but I've discovered the importance of a strong support network and financial resilience. I recount my personal experience of moving to a new area and the immediate need to connect with neighbors. Together, we formed a tight-knit community with diverse skills that offer emotional and practical support. Additionally, I delve into the necessity of having an emergency fund, diversifying income streams, and possessing barterable goods. By fostering these relationships and financial strategies, we create a more secure environment for ourselves and our loved ones.

Our health and preparedness become even more crucial as we age. In this episode, I explore how strength training and daily stretching can prevent muscle loss and injuries, especially for those over 50. Drawing from my experience managing thoracic outlet syndrome, I offer stretching and stress management techniques. We also discuss the importance of emergency planning, food security through a well-stocked pantry, and the peace of mind that comes from being prepared. Finally, I share a heartfelt story about my southern upbringing, emphasizing the values of love, faith, and pride that shape a resilient and grateful lifestyle.

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Ever wondered why the fixer-upper life could be your ticket to a fulfilling and resilient partnership? Join us on this episode of the Gorham Homestead podcast. First I share our latest homesteading adventures, from grappling with a major PVC pipe leak to celebrating a bumper crop of tomatoes. While we battle pests threatening our cucumbers and squash, we're also planning a special live cooking session with Nicole, featuring unique preparations of cow tongue. Plus, our barnyard is buzzing with an unexpected 17 ducks, and I outline our plans for processing some of our Muscovy ducks while preserving a few as breeding pairs and lovable pets.

We also delve into the invaluable life lessons that come from embracing the fixer-upper journey, particularly for young couples just starting out. There's a stark contrast between the immediate, ready-made lives many young people envision and the reality of what their parents built over decades. I emphasize the growth, problem-solving skills, and sense of accomplishment that come from working toward goals together from scratch. Whether it's about fixing a leak or harvesting your crops, the journey is rich with rewards. With perseverance and determination, you'll find that everything falls into place, making the hard work worthwhile. Don't forget to connect with us on social media and check out our website for more insights and resources.

Keep it real and remember the journey is usually more important than the destination.

Sponsor for today:
Hamilton, Gorham & Duncan PLLC  Your full service family law firm.  Visit HGDLegal.com 

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Ever wondered how to juggle homestead life and vacation plans without a hitch? We've got you covered! This episode of Keeping it Real at the Gorham Homestead is packed with our personal stories and practical tips on managing a busy homestead while gearing up for an exciting family trip to Colorado. Get an insider's update on the raw milk industry, learn about the minimal risk of bird flu from local dairy farms, and join us in the anticipation of attending our niece Charlotte's wedding in beautiful Steamboat Springs. Tee also shares his recent fishing adventure, and we discuss the installation of our brand-new sprinkler system and the ongoing progress of our pond project.

In a community effort that exemplifies self-reliance, we teamed up with friends from the Self Reliance Festival to relocate our smaller chicken coop and a heavy dog kennel, making our homestead more efficient than ever. Hear about the strategic moves we made, from using a tractor to optimizing livestock and compost management. We also delve into the wonders of automation with our new Wi-Fi-enabled sprinkler system and our amusing wish for an automated weed eater. As we embrace technology to ease our workload, we share our thoughts on balancing upfront costs with long-term benefits.

Efficiency and organization are the names of the game as we recount our adventures with a new battery-operated weed eater, including some unexpected mishaps. Learn how we've optimized our property layout, from moving chickens closer to water spigots to organizing feed supplies and setting up new coops for our turkeys. Beyond the homestead, we touch on the joys of canning workshops and the importance of medical training, sharing personal anecdotes and upcoming family celebrations. Don't miss out on our heartfelt reflections and invaluable advice—this episode is a blend of laughter, learning, and life on the homestead. Happy Fourth of July, and keep it real, y'all!


Today's Sponsors:
Rogina, LLC in Lakeland, FL  - RoginaConsulting.com
Hermitage Embroidery Works - HermitageEmbroidery.com
Hamilton, Gorham & Duncan, PLLC  HGDLegal.com

Here's the link to the new wifi enabled garden timer: (it's not an affiliate link as of right now)
https://a.co/d/0ihKzlmc

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Have you ever wondered how a small bottle of essential oil could revolutionize your daily routine? Discover the transformative power of essential oils and their fascinating history on Keeping it Real at the Gorham Homestead. I'll share personal stories from my own journey towards a more natural lifestyle, including how peppermint essential oil has become my go-to for headaches and sinus relief, and the many versatile uses of lavender, from skincare to natural deodorant.

You'll learn why quality is paramount when it comes to choosing essential oils and how brands like Young Living stand out for their commitment to purity. We'll explore the benefits of essential oils in daily maintenance, emotional well-being, and cleaning, with specific mentions of lavender and lemon for their calming and detoxifying properties. Plus, discover the incredible skin care and wound healing benefits of frankincense, lavender, and myrrh.

On the homestead, essential oils take on even more roles. Learn how lemongrass can help with bee swarms and inflammation, while Melissa oil, despite its cost, is a powerhouse against cold sores and shingles. Thieves oil proves essential for cleaning and maintaining milking machines, and tea tree oil stands out for its broad-spectrum usefulness. We'll wrap up with a heartfelt discussion on the importance of quality, encouraging you to research and find what works best for you. For more insights and to stay connected, visit TheGorhamHomestead.com and follow us on social media as The Gorham Homestead.

References:
Young Living - check out my favorite essential oil company here. (Full disclosure, I do earn a commission)  https://www.youngliving.com/us/en/referral/4604050

Sponsors:
 A Bee's Closet - Bon Aqua, Tennessee for all your beekeeping needs

Rogina, LLC - your mold testing specialist, water damage assessments, lead sampling, sewege contamination sampling located in Florida  www.RoginaConsulting.com

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Ever tried to move a six-foot emu size fence without losing your sanity? Join me on this week's episode of Keeping it Real at the Gorham Homestead, where I recount the unexpected fencing project that momentarily sidelined our regular podcast schedule. Hear about the trials and triumphs of tackling this massive job with the help of a young assistant, and get a sneak peek into our plans for upcoming episodes, including a deep dive into our top 10 essential oils in an upcoming interview with Joy Hinterkopft, who will share the scientific benefits of herbs and essential oils. Plus, don't miss updates on our  homestead garden struggles, where we're harvesting Roma tomatoes, green beans, and more, all while preparing to expand into a homestead market.

This episode isn't just about farm chores and business ventures; it's also a heartfelt reflection on personal milestones. I get candid about the bittersweet experience of watching my youngest child grow up and the mixed emotions of my son Chase being away at camp on his birthday. From the bustling plans to increase raw milk production to the community spirit behind our new market space, this episode captures the essence of homestead life. And stay tuned for some exciting changes to our podcast schedule, with episodes now airing on Thursdays. Whether you're a seasoned farmer or just curious about homestead living, there's something here for everyone.

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Can herbs truly transform your life and boost your homesteading journey? Join us on this enlightening episode of Keeping it Real, the Gorham Homestead podcast, as we unravel the mysteries behind our latest beekeeping endeavors and share valuable lessons from our meat chicken processing experience. From the health of our new colony to the challenges faced with an older hive, we provide a comprehensive update on the buzzing world of bees. Plus, gain practical tips on timely ordering and choosing the right feed types to enhance your homestead's productivity.

Ever wondered how lemon balm can soothe hyperactive children or St John's wort can ease anxiety and depression? We delve deep into the powerful healing properties of these herbs, revealing their cultivation secrets, preparation methods, and various forms of use. Discover how lemon balm's antiviral benefits can be amplified with licorice, and learn about St John's wort's potential side effects and the importance of consulting healthcare providers. This episode is packed with actionable insights that can help you harness the natural remedies around you for better health and well-being.

As we venture further into the world of herbs, we explore the benefits and precautions of using Queen Anne's Lace and wild lettuce, highlighting their significant roles in managing blood sugar levels and relieving pain. Plus, the heart-health benefits of motherwort and the immune-boosting powers of echinacea are uncovered, offering you a holistic approach to herbalism. Reflecting on the importance of utilizing natural resources, we provide inspiration for you to embrace the art of herbalism in your own life. Don't miss out on our upcoming episode about essential oils, and be sure to connect with us on social media and our website to stay engaged with our homesteading journey.

***Thank you to our sponsor "A Bee's Closet".  Be sure to go see Joe Ellis for the best service and help on all your beekeeping needs!

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Unlock the secrets of natural healing straight from our Tennessee homestead on this week's episode of "Keeping It Real" at the Gorham Homestead. Ever wondered how a simple herb can speed up the healing of bones, wounds, and sprains? Join me, Dawn Gorham, as I share the incredible benefits of comfrey, from its cell-regenerating properties to its uses in teas and poultices for respiratory relief and digestive health. We'll also discuss crucial precautions for those with liver issues and offer practical tips on how to incorporate this powerful herb into your daily routine.

But that's not all. We dive into the versatile uses of yarrow and blackberry, two herbs that have become staples in our natural medicine cabinet. Drawing from personal experience, I reveal how yarrow has helped treat wounds, menstrual cramps, and fevers, and even stopped nosebleeds in seconds. Plus, learn about blackberry's astringent properties and how its leaves and roots can effectively treat diarrhea and hemorrhoids. Discover how blackberry juice can soothe an upset stomach without any added sugar.

Lastly, we explore the medicinal uses of some lesser-known yet highly effective herbs, including goldenrod, elderberry, rabbit tobacco, boneset, and mullein. You'll hear insights from Daryl Patton's enlightening book, "Mountain Medicine, the Herbal Remedies of Tommy Bass," and uncover how these herbs have been used to support respiratory health, boost immunity, and treat common ailments like asthma and lung congestion. From breaking fevers to alleviating earaches, these Native American herbs offer a treasure trove of natural solutions for your health needs. Don't miss this informative journey into the heart of herbal medicine.

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Are outdated city ordinances suffocating the spirit of rural homesteading? On today's episode of "Keeping it Real, the Gorham Homestead Podcast," we unravel the intense battle of a young couple in Dickson, Tennessee, who are caught in the crossfire of a restrictive law prohibiting chickens within a thousand feet of another structure. You'll hear about their determination to challenge this ordinance, the unexpected community support they garnered, and some intriguing off-the-record advice from a codes enforcer. This episode shines a light on the ongoing struggle between preserving rural living ideals and resisting encroaching urban regulations, advocating for the right to self-sustainability and community resilience.

As we shift gears, we delve into the nitty-gritty of launching and running a farm-based business. From FDA regulations to food freedom laws in Tennessee, this episode covers everything you need to legally sell herbs, chickens, and freeze-dried foods. We'll also tackle the importance of liability insurance, contracts, and choosing the right business structure to protect your homestead enterprise. Whether you're a seasoned homesteader or just embarking on this journey, our episode is packed with invaluable insights to help you navigate the legal landscape and operate your business ethically and successfully. Don't miss out on these essential tips to ensure your farm thrives within the bounds of the law.

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