My Commitment to Honest Homesteading Advice

Welcome to The 104 Homestead—I’m so glad you’re here.

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by all the advice out there on gardening, raising animals, or living more self-sufficiently, you’re not alone. I’ve been there too. That’s why I’m committed to sharing real-life, trustworthy, and practical guidance that actually works for you—no matter your starting point, budget, or backyard size.

This isn’t about chasing perfection. It’s about making progress, one step at a time.

What You Can Expect From Me

I’ve been homesteading for over 12 years, starting on a tiny quarter-acre in town and eventually moving to a five-acre property here in Maine. I’ve tried a lot, failed a bunch, and learned even more along the way—and I share that knowledge here so you don’t have to reinvent the wheel (or burn your first batch of goat milk soap like I did).

When I give advice, it’s grounded in personal experience, solid research, and a deep love for this way of life. I’m not here to push products or sell you a dream that only works for people with 40 acres and unlimited free time. I’m here to help you build a version of homesteading that fits your real life.

I Value Your Trust—Here’s How I Keep It

Transparency matters, and you deserve to know how things work behind the scenes:

  • Sponsorships & Partnerships: I occasionally partner with companies or brands I genuinely trust and believe will help my readers. If I wouldn’t use it myself, you won’t see it here.
  • Affiliate Links: Some of my posts include affiliate links (mostly through Amazon). If you buy something through one of those links, I may earn a small commission—at no extra cost to you. It helps keep the site running and the coffee pot full.
  • Product Reviews: From time to time, I receive products for review. Whether it’s gifted or bought with my own money, my reviews are always honest and based on real use.

You’ll always know when a post includes affiliate links or sponsored content—no surprises, no fine print.

I Keep Things Updated—Because Homesteading Evolves

What works today might change next season. I regularly revisit older posts to update them with new research, better tips, or lessons I’ve learned since first writing them. If I ever get something wrong, I’ll fix it. Simple as that.

This Is a Community—Not Just a Blog

I don’t want this to be a one-way street. Your questions, comments, and experiences help shape what I write and share.

Here’s how I stay connected:

  • Reader Questions: I read every comment, email, and newsletter reply—and I do my best to answer them all.
  • Social Media: I’m most active on Facebook and Instagram, sharing everyday homestead moments and connecting with readers.
  • Guest Contributors: While rare, I sometimes invite trusted voices to share on topics outside my wheelhouse—always someone I personally know and respect.

What We Value Around Here

There’s no one “right way” to homestead, and you won’t find judgment here. Whether you’re starting seeds on a windowsill or managing a full-blown farm, you belong in this space.

I believe in:

  • Community over competition
  • Progress over perfection
  • Practical advice that fits real life
  • Encouragement, not pressure

My Promise to You

Here at The 104 Homestead, I’m committed to offering:

✓ Honest, actionable guidance you can trust
✓ Clear disclosures on sponsored content and affiliate links
✓ A supportive space where your voice matters
✓ Real talk about the good, the bad, and the muddy

I’m so thankful you’re here. And if you ever have questions, ideas, or just need someone to tell you that yes, it’s normal to cry over a failed batch of jam—I’m only an email away.

Let’s build something meaningful together.
— Jessica