I just missed out on a second-hand rotary hoe on eBay, and am taking the opportunity to seek more information while I wait for another one to come up. Please send me your advice!

A simple flying fox strung between a couple of trees gives the kids hours of fun and exercise.

I kept the belly of one side of our pork, and had a go at making a home-cured bacon. It turned out delicious!

A cheap and simple home-made chicken processing station. It also doubles as a very handy outdoor sink for washing vegetables, plant pots and tools.

A complete summary of the costs for our first foray into raising our own pigs for meat, from piglet purchase right through to slaughter and butchering.

Tender or delicate plants in the garden can be protected from chickens and other animals by simply placing an old birdcage over the top. It’s simple, free, and actually looks pretty nice!

We went to the Dapto Markets on Sunday morning to try to buy a few things we need around the yard. What an awesome place!

The markets are a great place to buy second hand clothes, toys, tools, etc for very good prices. Or if you’ve accumulated a whole bunch of that sort of stuff yourself, [...]

A short while ago Donna left a comment asking about tips to get the family grocery bill down. Making your own laundry soap is a great way to save a lot of money!

The recipe we’ve been using is very simple:

1 cup Lux flakes or 1 bar grated Sunlight soap 1/2 cup borax 1/2 cup washing soda 10 litres [...]