August has a way of reminding us that nothing stays the same forever. The days are still hot, the garden is still producing, and there is still plenty of work to be done around the homestead. But if you slow down long enough to notice, you can feel a change coming. Summer is beginning to transition, and with that transition comes preparation. This year has already brought lessons in patience, perseverance, grief, growth and gratitude. There have been moments of abundance and moments that required us to simply keep moving forward. Through it all, the homestead continues to teach me that there is purpose in every season. So, as August moves forward, I am choosing to embrace the transition. I am grateful for what summer has produced, thankful for the lessons it has taught me, and excited about what the next season will bring.
Our Harvest
August is not simply about harvesting what we planted months ago. It is also about thinking ahead. Beds need to be prepared. Soil needs attention. And plants that have given us an abundance must be removed to make room for something new. As we move toward our fall growing season here in Zone 8b, we have begun sowing the vegetables that will fill our garden in the cooler months. Next season our garden will be full of collards, mustard greens, kale, broccoli, cabbage, spinach, arugula, and so much more.
August also reminds me that preparation is an act of faith. We plant seeds without knowing exactly what the harvest will look like. We nurture them, water them, protect them, and wait. Then, in time, something begins to grow.
Our Animals
Our animals are keeping us just as busy as the garden! The ladies are still laying. Several of our girls have decided that they are ready to become mothers, so we have quite a few broody hens right now. At first, I honestly thought some of the hens were cracking their eggs in the nesting boxes. But after paying closer attention, I discovered they weren’t cracking the eggs on purpose. They were sitting on them, and in the process, some of the eggs were getting damaged.
Our meat chickens have officially graduated from the brooder to their coop! They grow so fast, and before I know it, it will be October, and they will be heading to freezer camp. Our rabbits are doing well, too. Watching Daisy reproduce has been another rewarding part of our journey. All the bunnies born in May have been rehomed. One thing homesteading continues to teach me is that every animal has a purpose and every season brings something different.
Homestead Happenings
Fall officially arrives September 22, 2026!
Our Fall Plant Sale will begin September 22nd!
We will have a variety of fall vegetable plants available to help you get your fall garden started. Whether you’re an experienced gardener or just getting started, fall is a great time to put your hands in the soil and grow some of your own food.
off the homestead happenings…
Our mission continues off the homestead. Through our nonprofit efforts, we remain committed to growing healthy communities, sharing knowledge, and helping provide fresh food to those who need it. Every garden bed built, every harvest distributed, every seed shared, and every person who learns something new from us reminds me why we started this journey.
Bradley's Homestead 