The Hen & Hive Urban Homestead

04/16/2026

Still very much a student of the bees 🐝

One thing I’m learning (sometimes the hard way) is how important it is to stay on top of your hive. Regular checks aren’t just a “nice to have” — they’re how you keep pests in check and give your colony enough space so they don’t decide to pack their bags and split.

Well… this year, I dropped the ball.

I didn’t add another box in time, and sure enough, one of my hives swarmed. Watching them go was equal parts awe-inspiring and “well, that’s on me.” Nature keeps receipts.

But here’s the good part — beekeeping isn’t a solo journey. Huge gratitude to my friend who showed up with a brood box, steady hands, and a whole lot of knowledge. He walked me through catching the swarm and getting them settled in their new home.

And just like that… we’ve now got hive #3.

Still learning. Still humbled. Still completely fascinated by these tiny, brilliant creatures.

04/12/2026

Introducing new chickens to an established flock is a little like dropping into the first day at a new school… there’s curiosity, a bit of side-eye, and definitely a pecking order to sort out

We’re taking it slow over here—keeping everyone safe, giving them space to see and hear each other, and letting trust build one scratch at a time. A few fluffed feathers and dramatic squawks are all part of the process, but soon enough they’ll be sharing snacks and sunbathing like old friends

Patience is the name of the game… and maybe a few extra treats to keep the peace

01/02/2026

This was our first time making soap, and we were pleasantly surprised by how easy the overall process is. That said, proper timing is everything—especially to make sure the colors, scents, and final design turn out the way you want. We learned a lot along the way, and next time we’ll be taking video so we can share the process from start to finish.

12/05/2025

Making homemade butter is surprisingly easy—just pour heavy cream into a bowl grab a mixer and let it whip past the whipped-cream stage until the butterfat separates. After straining and rinsing, you’re left with fresh, golden butter in just a few minutes. The flavor is incredibly rich and clean, far better than store-bought options, and you can adjust the salt to your liking. Once you’ve made it yourself, it’s hard to go back to anything else.

12/04/2025

There’s nothing quite like the aroma of rosemary/parmesan sourdough fresh from the oven—crispy, fragrant, and irresistibly savory. Spread with creamy homemade butter that melts into every warm slice, it’s pure, simple deliciousness.

11/26/2025

From flat discs and gummy centers to a loaf with the most incredible crust—this sourdough journey tested my patience in almost every way. Every failed attempt made that first perfect bake feel even sweeter.

11/22/2025

🍍 First time making homemade Tepache at The Hen & Hive — and I’m already obsessed!

Tepache is a traditional Mexican fermented drink that dates back to pre-Columbian times and is made from pineapple rinds, brown sugar (piloncillo), and spices. It’s slightly fizzy, subtly sweet, and a little tangy, it’s packed with natural probiotics that support gut health and digestion.

There’s something incredibly satisfying about turning our kitchen scraps into something delicious and nourishing.

Fermentation magic is real! Can’t wait to see how this first batch turns out!

Have you tried tepache before? Would love to hear your tips! 🍍🫙🧡

11/22/2025