Hi! I’m glad you stopped by to learn more about ASW Homestead!
My name is Amanda and I’ve been tending ASW Homestead since June of 2020.
I’m a Jesus follower, a wife, and a mom to four amazing teens and pre-teens. I’m a homebody at heart — happiest in cozy spaces, surrounded by family, and likely sipping something warm with apples nearby.
I love simple things, live frugally by choice, and find joy in creating a peaceful, purposeful home. As an educator, I believe in lifelong learning — whether in the classroom, the garden, or gathered around the kitchen table.
ASW Homestead is where my love for faith, family, and intentional living come together.
My interest in homesteading began when I was a young girl growing up in Ohio — though back then, it wasn’t called “homesteading.” It went by other names.
At one point, someone called me a “tree hugger” because I cared (and still care) deeply about the environment. The label didn’t stick, but the heart behind it sure did. I’ve always believed in making the most of what I already have instead of constantly buying new — a mindset that still shapes the way I live and homestead today.
Like many of you, I grew up learning how to care for animals. Our family had a spirited Springer Spaniel named Kelly who fancied herself an explorer, disappearing on weekly neighborhood adventures. As a teen, I raised four rabbits, but my favorite animal companion was Rajah — a fiery Arabian gelding with more spirit than sense! Those early experiences with animals helped prepare me for homestead life, where I now raise and care for a flock of chickens (who are thankfully much easier to catch than Kelly ever was).
ASW Homestead began with a desire to step away from the hustle and create a simple homemade homestead. I wanted to create a place of rest for my family after living internationally for five years. Well, the homestead projects have expanded and contracted with the seasons of our life but has remained a simple homemade homestead.
I hope in the pages and posts you can also find encouragement and rest.
Wholesome, no-fuss meals made with ingredients you likely already have on hand.
Step-by-step guides to help you produce more, waste less, and live with intention.
Learn practical skills and time-tested wisdom for a more grounded, self-sufficient life.
On the blog, I share the rhythms that shape our homestead life — from nourishing recipes and food preservation to lessons learned in the garden.
When I left home after high school, I had a steep learning curve in cooking nutrient-dense meals — but baking came naturally. I love baking for my family, and most days you’ll find me in the kitchen preparing meals for our family of six.
I started preserving food when my children were toddlers, beginning with simple recipes like diced tomatoes and applesauce. Over the years, I’ve expanded my skills to include both water bath and pressure canning. One of our staples is homemade chicken broth — rich in nutrients and far more affordable than store-bought options.
My grandpa tended three large gardens, and I spent many weekends learning by his side. I’ve gardened for years now, but like many homesteaders, I’m still learning with each new season. Gardening is a grounding part of my rhythm — and a source of fresh, homegrown joy.
