Blog - The Jonestead

How I Saved $1200+ on Appliance Repairs

By thejonestead|2026-06-28T18:11:02+00:00June 28th, 2026|

Two Repairs, Two Saved Service Calls I had a commercial glass-door cooler that stopped cooling and a front-load washer that got stuck with the door locked and the pump running nonstop. Both are essential to our farm and homestead, but I didn't want to spend $600–$1,000 each on repair calls, so I simply delayed fixing them for months. On a whim, I decided to use Claude as my personal appliance repairman to see if it could help me diagnose either issue — and I was genuinely surprised by the outcome. Quick Answer I used Claude to diagnose two broken appliances — a commercial cooler and a front-load washer — by describing exactly what I was seeing, in plain language, and answering follow-up questions as it narrowed down the cause. Total parts cost for both repairs: under $50. Between the two, we likely saved $1,200–$2,000 in service calls, and the cooler — which had been sitting broken for 8 months — was back up and running within days of actually trying. Why the Cooler Mattered Enough to Bother The cooler holds all of our garden harvest and prepped food before it gets processed — bags of spinach, multiple dozen eggs, bacon mid-cure, and whatever else is in progress on a given week. None of that fits in our counter-depth kitchen fridge, so this commercial cooler is genuinely essential to how our homestead runs. It just also happened to be broken for 8 months, because the idea of a $600+ repair call kept getting pushed to "next week." How I Talked Through the Fridge Repair I opened Claude and started simple, describing exactly what was happening: "I have a commercial fridge (Coldtech J1GR-24L) that cools for about 24-48 hours and then kicks off. Fan continues to run but no cooling occurs. It doesn't appear to ice up anywhere. Help me troubleshoot and pinpoint the problem with step by step instructions." That single prompt came back with six specific things to check, with details on how to check each one and whether it was a reasonable DIY job or something to leave alone. Already more useful than I expected. From there, it was just a back-and-forth conversation as I gathered more information: I mentioned the failure happened more often in extreme heat, but also in shoulder seasons, and that it seemed to warm up the garage it's stored in. Claude suggested cleaning the coils. After cleaning the coils and giving it 24 hours, I reported back: the fan was running, you could hear it calling for the condenser, but the condenser wasn't doing anything. With that detail, Claude was fairly confident it was a bad start relay or a bad overload protector — both parts running about $15 each. I ordered the parts, asked a couple of clarifying questions about how to actually remove and replace them, and swapped them out myself. The fridge cooled almost immediately and has held steady for the last month. How I Talked Through the Washer Repair Our

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I Downsized My Garden — Here’s Why

By thejonestead|2026-06-28T16:55:33+00:00June 28th, 2026|

A garden doesn't need to be big to be productive — it needs water, food, fencing, and the time to actually manage it. A small, well-tended garden will out-produce a large, neglected one almost every time. I learned this the hard way after scaling back from silage-tarped rows to a handful of well-managed raised beds, and getting a better harvest doing it.

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English Muffins

By thejonestead|2025-01-21T12:57:46+00:00January 21st, 2025|

This Homemade English Muffin recipe is quick, easy, & delicious to make. No stretch and folds, no sticky hands, and no major time commitment!

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We Tried Raw Milk

By thejonestead|2025-01-11T11:47:26+00:00January 11th, 2025|

We tried raw milk for the first time. Learn what our thoughts were on the flavor and consistency along with what we made from the milk.

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10 Best Gifts For Chicken Keepers

By thejonestead|2025-01-15T12:18:31+00:00December 17th, 2024|

For those of you who have homesteaders or chicken keepers in your life, you may be wondering what chicken related gifts would truly be appreciated. I'll be sharing recommendations for the 10 Best Gifts For Chicken Keepers. I've personally been keeping chickens for over 10 years (likely closer to 15, but who's counting). Every year I adjust products I'm using to help ebb and flow with the seasons, predators, or chicken issues that arise. It's a fun challenge and throughout these adjustments I've found some staples that I stick with regardless. 10 Best Gifts For Chicken Keepers Roll Away Nesting Boxes: For someone that doesn't keep chickens, this may seem silly (or even lazy). Truth be told, it's actually really helpful but something that most chicken keepers have a hard time justifying buying themselves. With multiple chickens using each nesting box, naturally they track dirt and poo in from the coop they've been walking in. What they track in gets on the eggs since the nesting box is shared and by the end of the day eggs may be broken or really dirty in those nesting boxes. In a rollaway nesting box, the egg gets laid and once the hen moves or stands the natural incline of the box encourages the egg to gently roll into the collection bin where it stays clean and protected from traffic or even egg-eating hens. This is a great roll away nesting box that comes in two sizes. Small Rollaway Nest Box: https://amzn.to/3OXJTltLarge Rollaway Nest Box: https://amzn.to/3BzM6R1 Meal Worms: Meal worms may seem excessive to the unknowing chicken keeper, however, these are actually an excellent source of protein for the chickens. While they are considered a treat, not a full meal, mealworms help support growth, egg production, and help hens through the molting process. Not to mention, once then hens are fed these helpful treats, they'll be running your way every time they see you just like a dog. Mealworms: https://amzn.to/41Ac5SS Incubator: Most chicken keepers decide to incubate eggs at some point to help save costs and ensure productive layers. I've personally used this 41 egg incubator for the last 3 years and I've had good success with it. I'll be sharing a specific post with tips or trick on how to use this in the future but for now this would make a well received gift for any chicken enthusiast on you your list.Incubator: https://amzn.to/3Dldv9V Heat Plate: Once you incubate eggs and hatch out little chickens, you need a way to keep them warm and dry while they're little. Most people start with a heat lamp but gosh they can be dangerous. I prefer this brooder plate which can accommodate up to 20 chicks and is claimed to be much safer to use than a heat lamp: Heat Plate: https://amzn.to/4gBdaOJ Chicken Saddle: Between chickens molting, aggressive roosters, and boredom causing hens to pick at each others feathers, these chicken saddles will come in handy throughout the year. They may seem silly, but they

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Homemade Playdough Recipe

By thejonestead|2025-01-15T12:16:11+00:00December 7th, 2024|

This is your new go-to DIY homemade playdough recipe! Takes 10 minutes to make, lasts for months, and costs less than a cup of coffee. Made with ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. Why will you LOVE this homemade playdough recipe? Quick to make - takes only 5 minutes Enough playdough for approximately 5 children Inexpensive to make - with only 5 ingredient that are likely already in your pantry EASY to customize - add color of your choice, glitter, or anything else you desire Not sticky like other recipes Lasts for MONTHS when stored properly Playdough is a Favorite Homestead Activity for Kids Our kids LOVE playing with this homemade playdough. We let them choose the colors each time we make it. This gets them engaged and eager to learn their colors. We typically give them rolling pins and cookie cutters and have them "help" us make cookies. They're always so proud of what they're able to make. Best of all, it's a screen free activity! A Screen Free Activity for Kids I initially tried making homemade playdough in a search for screen free activities for kids. My kids were spending too much time on their ipads. I wanted to re-direct their attention to more hands on activity that was engaging and helped them learn. Meanwhile, I also needed to keep a low budget in mind and homemade playdough was the winner. How Playdough Supports Learning and Development Playdough is a valuable tool in early childhood development because it engages children in activities that foster learning, creativity, and skill development. 1. Playdough used for Fine Motor Skills Development Strengthens hand muscles: Rolling, squishing, and molding playdough improves hand strength and dexterity. Improves coordination: Using tools like cutters, rollers, or shaping utensils enhances hand-eye coordination. Prepares for writing: Manipulating playdough helps develop the fine motor skills needed for holding a pencil. 2. Playdough helps Sensory Exploration Tactile experience: The texture, temperature, and pliability of playdough provide rich sensory input. Calming effect: For some children, manipulating playdough can have a soothing and stress-relieving effect. 3. Playdough boasts in Creativity and Imagination Encourages artistic expression: Children can create shapes, objects, or abstract designs, fostering creativity. Role-play and storytelling: Playdough creations can be part of imaginative play scenarios. 4. Playdough aids in Cognitive Development Problem-solving skills: Creating specific shapes or structures challenges children to think and plan. Understanding concepts: Playdough can be used to teach concepts like shapes, sizes, numbers, and patterns. 5. Playdough used for Social and Emotional Development Collaboration: Group activities with playdough encourage sharing and teamwork. Emotional expression: Children can express feelings through their creations. 6. Playdough helps Language Development Vocabulary building: As children describe what they're making, they learn new words and improve communication skills. Instruction following: Structured activities with playdough help children practice following directions. Playdough is also easy to customize with colors, scents, or add-ins (like glitter or beads) to tailor the experience to developmental goals. Whether used in structured activities or free play, it’s

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Farm Fresh Turkey Brine

By thejonestead|2025-01-13T12:00:08+00:00December 4th, 2024|

This Farm Fresh Turkey Brine recipe will transform your Thanksgiving turkey into the star of the show, with rave reviews like “Best turkey I’ve EVER tasted!” “So juicy and flavorful!” and “A total game-changer!” The brine is simple to prepare and ensures your turkey is tender, moist, and bursting with flavor. With just a little planning ahead, this recipe is perfect for anyone aiming to impress a table full of hungry guests. Whether you’re hosting a cozy family gathering or feeding a crowd, this brine is your ticket to a Thanksgiving everyone will be talking about for years to come!

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Homestead Daily Bread

By thejonestead|2025-01-22T12:46:02+00:00November 17th, 2024|

Baking bread is an essential skill within the homestead to ensure multiple options for each meal. An easy, go-to bread recipe can become the focal point for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or dessert. About the Recipe The Homestead Daily Bread recipe is a perfect go-to recipe for your homestead. It's quick to prep (5 minutes) and you let the bread machine do the rest. There's nothing better than walking into the house to the smell of fresh bread while you've been out tending the garden or playing with the kids outside. This recipe is great for sandwiches, toast, grilled cheese, garlic bread, cheesy breadsticks, french toast, and so much more. The fact that you can customize the slice size helps to make it more versatile than a store bought loaf. 6 Benefits of Having a Daily Bread Recipe for Your Homestead In the heart of every homestead, there’s something truly magical about the simple act of baking bread. While sourdough may get the spotlight for its tangy charm, a humble daily loaf of white bread can bring just as much joy—and it’s far easier to make than you might think! If you don’t already have a go-to bread recipe, now is the perfect time to create one. Whether you bake by hand or use a bread machine, having a reliable recipe at your fingertips is one of the best ways to enrich your homestead life. Let’s dive into the many reasons why a daily bread recipe is a homesteader’s best friend. 1. Cost Savings: Bake More, Spend Less One of the most compelling reasons to bake bread daily is the significant cost savings. A loaf of store-bought bread can run anywhere from $2 to $5, depending on the brand and quality. When you bake your own bread, the ingredients (flour, yeast, and water) cost mere cents per loaf, and you’ll know exactly what goes into it—no preservatives or mystery ingredients. Over time, those small savings really add up, allowing you to reallocate your budget to other homesteading needs, whether it’s seeds for next season's garden or extra supplies for canning. 2. Convenience: Quick and Easy Loaf for Busy Days Running a homestead means you're likely juggling numerous tasks every day—feeding animals, tending gardens, fixing fences, and more. The last thing you need is the stress of baking bread from scratch every time you run out. That's where a dependable daily bread recipe becomes a game changer. With a simple routine or a bread machine, you can have fresh, soft bread ready to serve with minimal effort. Bread machines, in particular, are fantastic for homesteaders who are constantly on the go. Just toss in the ingredients, set it, and forget it. While you take care of other tasks, your machine does the hard work, kneading and baking the bread to perfection. When you return, there’s a warm, golden loaf waiting for you. 3. Nostalgia: The Irresistible Aroma of Fresh-Baked Bread If you’ve ever walked into a house where fresh bread is baking,

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Starting Seeds Indoors

By thejonestead|2025-01-15T12:21:08+00:00January 28th, 2024|

As winter blankets the outdoor world in frost and snow, the dedicated gardener can still get a head start on spring by starting seeds indoors. Cultivating plants from seeds during the winter months allows you to extend your growing season and enjoy a bountiful garden when warmer weather arrives. In this guide, we will explore the basics of starting seeds indoors, providing you with the knowledge and skills to nurture your own little garden oasis during the colder months. Selecting Seeds: Begin by choosing seeds that are suitable for indoor germination. Vegetables like tomatoes, peppers, and herbs are excellent candidates for starting indoors. Look for high-quality seeds from reputable suppliers to ensure a successful germination process. Gathering Supplies: Gather the necessary supplies for starting seeds indoors. You'll need seed trays or containers, seed-starting mix, a watering can or spray bottle, and labels for identifying the planted seeds. Additionally, invest in grow lights or place your seedlings near a south-facing window to ensure they receive adequate light. Choosing the Right Containers: Use seed trays or small containers with drainage holes to prevent waterlogged soil, which can lead to root rot. Make sure the containers are clean and have been disinfected to minimize the risk of diseases affecting your seedlings. Preparing the Seed-Starting Mix: Choose a high-quality seed-starting mix that is lightweight and provides good aeration for the developing roots. Moisten the mix before planting to ensure even distribution of water. Planting the Seeds: Follow the instructions on the seed packets for proper planting depth and spacing. Gently press the seeds into the soil and cover them according to the recommended guidelines. Use labels to identify each type of seed, as it's easy to forget what you planted once they start sprouting. Providing Adequate Light: Place your seed trays under grow lights or near a sunny window. Seedlings require 12-16 hours of light per day. Adjust the height of the lights to keep them close to the plants without causing heat damage. Maintaining Proper Temperature and Humidity: Keep the indoor environment conducive to seed germination by maintaining a consistent temperature between 65-75°F (18-24°C). Use a humidity dome or cover the trays with plastic wrap until the seeds germinate to create a warm and humid microclimate. Watering Carefully: Water the seedlings carefully to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Use a spray bottle or a fine mist to prevent disturbing the delicate young plants. Transplanting Seedlings: Once the seedlings have developed their second set of leaves, transplant them into larger containers with nutrient-rich potting soil. This provides them with the space and nutrients needed for further growth. Hardening Off and Transplanting Outdoors: Before transplanting seedlings into the garden, gradually acclimate them to outdoor conditions through a process called hardening off. This involves exposing them to outdoor conditions for increasing periods over several days. Transplant your hardened-off seedlings into the garden when the risk of frost has passed. Starting seeds indoors during the winter months is a rewarding endeavor that allows you

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Essential Garden Tasks during the Summer

By thejonestead|2025-01-15T12:21:34+00:00January 28th, 2024|

Thriving Gardens require essential tasks during the heat of the summer. As the sun's rays intensify and temperatures rise, your garden becomes a vibrant oasis teeming with life. Summer is a crucial time for garden maintenance, ensuring that your plants not only survive but thrive in the heat. We'll explore key tasks to keep your garden flourishing throughout the summer months. Hydration is Key:The scorching summer sun can quickly deplete soil moisture, putting stress on your plants. Regular watering is crucial, especially during dry spells. Water early in the morning or late in the evening to minimize evaporation. Focus on the base of plants, keeping the foliage dry to prevent fungal diseases. Mulching for Moisture Retention:Apply a layer of organic mulch around your plants to conserve soil moisture. Mulch acts as a protective barrier, shielding the soil from the sun's direct rays and reducing water evaporation. It also helps control weeds that compete for water and nutrients. Pruning and Deadheading:Summer is an ideal time for pruning to shape your plants and encourage healthy growth. Remove dead or diseased branches to improve air circulation and prevent the spread of pests. Deadhead flowering plants regularly to stimulate new blooms and maintain a tidy appearance. Fertilizing for Growth:Boost your plants' nutrient intake by fertilizing during the growing season. Choose a balanced fertilizer or one specifically formulated for the types of plants in your garden. Follow recommended application rates, as excessive fertilization can harm plants. Consider using organic fertilizers for a more sustainable approach. Pest Patrol:Summer invites various pests to the garden, threatening the health of your plants. Keep a watchful eye for signs of infestations and take prompt action. Consider using natural predators, insecticidal soaps, or neem oil to control pests while minimizing harm to beneficial insects. Support for Tall Plants:Tall or heavy plants, such as tomatoes or sunflowers, may require additional support to withstand summer storms and winds. Install stakes or cages to prevent bending or breaking. Regularly check and adjust supports as plants grow. Soil Health Check:Periodically assess the condition of your soil to ensure it remains nutrient-rich. Consider conducting a soil test to determine pH levels and nutrient deficiencies. Amend the soil with compost or organic matter as needed to promote a healthy growing environment. Shade and Sun Protection:Some plants, especially those that prefer partial shade, may struggle in intense summer sunlight. Provide shade using temporary covers, especially during the hottest part of the day. This will help prevent sunburn and stress on sensitive plants. Harvesting and Enjoying the Fruits of Your Labor:Summer is the season of abundance in the garden. Regularly harvest ripe fruits, vegetables, and herbs to encourage continuous production. Celebrate the flavors of your garden by incorporating freshly harvested produce into your meals. By incorporating these key tasks into your summer garden maintenance routine, you'll ensure a thriving and lush landscape. Remember that each garden is unique, so tailor these tips to suit the specific needs of your plants. With a little care and attention, your garden

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