Missouri Homesteading

08/06/2025

Any guesses as to what I'm doing with these today??? I'm using more than 3....and is very beneficial to each of us!
Stay tuned for update...

08/02/2025

We now have Bee Propolis Available!

Here's a list of what the Propolis Tincture may do for you...
Its Anti-inflammatory, Anti-microbial, Anti- bacterial,Anti-fungal, Anti-viral as well as supporting the Immune system, Oral Health, Burn wounds, Cancer,Skin Healing, Aphthous Ulcer, Diabetes and Infections!

Also, available is our Propolis Nasal Spray!
This may help with congestion, irritation and dryness as well asit is anti-microbial and anti inflammatory properties.

***As always, consult your physician on taking these as we are not medical experts and anyone pregnant should NOT take these at all. Please do your own research as well!

Come see us at the Cameron Farmers & Makers Market in McCorkle Park, Saturdays 9-1 pm OR you may swing by The God and Country Gifts store on 3rd street in Cameron, Missouri during the week!

07/07/2025

https://www.facebook.com/share/r/1LT6ns95Zj/

07/06/2025

Feeling the Heat: How Rising Temperatures Affect Our Mood and How to Stay Cool-Headed
As summers grow hotter and heatwaves become more frequent, many of us notice more than just a rise in the mercury; we feel a distinct shift in our emotional landscape. Far from being a mere inconvenience, extreme heat can significantly impact our psychological well-being, leading to increased irritability, anxiety, and even more severe mental health challenges. Understanding this connection and implementing proactive strategies is crucial for navigating warmer months with greater emotional resilience.
The Psychological Toll of High Temperatures
Research consistently demonstrates a clear link between elevated temperatures and various negative mood states. Here's how heat can get under our skin:
* Increased Irritability and Aggression: It's not just a cliché; hot temperatures genuinely make us "hot under the collar." Studies show a direct correlation between rising heat and increased feelings of frustration, anger, and even aggressive behaviors. This phenomenon is supported by the "heat hypothesis," which suggests that uncomfortable temperatures trigger hostile motives and actions.
* Heightened Anxiety and Stress: The body's effort to regulate its temperature in extreme heat can trigger the release of cortisol, our primary stress hormone. This physiological response can exacerbate existing anxiety or even induce it in those who were previously calm. Symptoms can include restlessness, agitation, and a general feeling of unease.
* Depression and Low Mood: While the relationship is complex, studies indicate that mental health and well-being tend to worsen during warmer weather. Heat can disrupt the balance of neurotransmitters like serotonin, which plays a key role in mood regulation, potentially leading to decreased feelings of happiness and increased symptoms of depression.
* Cognitive Difficulties and Fatigue: The strain on our bodies from heat can lead to a decrease in motivation, mental fog, difficulty concentrating, and overall fatigue. This can impact work performance, daily tasks, and our ability to cope with stressors.
* Disrupted Sleep: Hot nights make it incredibly challenging to get quality sleep, and chronic sleep deprivation is a well-known precursor to mood disturbances, irritability, and decreased cognitive function.
* Exacerbation of Pre-existing Conditions: Individuals with pre-existing mental health conditions such as anxiety disorders, depression, PTSD, or schizophrenia are particularly vulnerable to the effects of heat. High temperatures can worsen their symptoms and, in severe cases, increase the risk of hospitalizations and even su***de.
Minimizing the Heat's Impact on Your Mood
While we can't control the weather, we can implement strategies to mitigate its effects on our mental well-being. Here's how to stay cool-headed when temperatures soar:
* Prioritize Hydration: Dehydration is a significant contributor to irritability, fatigue, and anxiety. Drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you don't feel thirsty, and consider electrolyte-rich beverages.
* Stay Cool:
* Seek Air-Conditioned Spaces: If you have access to AC, use it. If not, spend time in public cooling centers, libraries, or shopping malls.
* Utilize Fans and Cool Compresses: Fans can help circulate air, and placing cold compresses on pulse points (wrists, neck, temples) or taking cool showers can offer quick relief.
* Dress Appropriately: Wear loose-fitting, light-colored clothing made from breathable fabrics.
* Adjust Your Schedule: Avoid strenuous outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day (typically 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.). If you exercise, do so in the early morning or late evening, or move your workouts indoors.
* Optimize Sleep:
* Cool Your Bedroom: Use fans, open windows (if the outside air is cooler), or even try freezing your bedding or socks before bed. Blackout curtains can help block out heat during the day.
* Light Bedding: Opt for breathable sheets and minimal blankets.
* Practice Stress Management:
* Mindfulness and Deep Breathing: Techniques like meditation and deep breathing can help calm your nervous system and manage heat-related stress and anxiety.
* Limit Stimulants: Reduce caffeine and alcohol intake, as these can contribute to dehydration and exacerbate anxiety.
* Maintain Physical Health:
* Balanced Meals: Eat regular, balanced meals.
* Continue Medications: If you are on psychiatric medications, continue taking them as prescribed. If you have concerns about how heat might affect your medication, consult your doctor.
* Stay Connected and Seek Support:
* Check on Others: Reach out to vulnerable family members, friends, and neighbors who may be struggling with the heat.
* Don't Isolate: While it might be tempting to stay indoors alone, make an effort to connect with others, even if it's virtually.
* Recognize Warning Signs: Be aware of signs of heat exhaustion (heavy sweating, dizziness, fatigue, headache) and heatstroke, which is a medical emergency.
* Professional Help: If you notice a significant worsening of your mood or mental health symptoms, do not hesitate to reach out to a mental health professional or a crisis helpline.
By acknowledging the profound impact of heat on our emotional well-being and proactively adopting these strategies, we can navigate the challenges of warmer temperatures with greater comfort and mental stability. Staying cool, hydrated, and connected are key to maintaining a calm and resilient mind, even when the heat is on.

07/05/2025

06/27/2025

Bees swarm primarily for two main reasons:
* Colony Reproduction: Swarming is the natural way honey bee colonies reproduce. When a healthy, thriving colony grows too large, a new queen is raised. The old queen then leaves the original hive with a significant portion of the worker bees (often about half) to find a new home. The remaining bees stay in the old hive with the newly emerging queen. This process essentially creates two colonies from one.
* Overcrowding and Space Issues: As a colony expands, it can outgrow its current living space. This can lead to a lack of room for the queen to lay eggs, for bees to store honey and pollen, and for adequate ventilation within the hive. When the hive becomes too congested, the bees initiate swarming as a solution to alleviate the overcrowding.
Here's a more detailed breakdown of the process:
* Preparation: Before swarming, the worker bees start building special "queen cells" where new queens will develop. The current queen lays eggs in these cells, and the worker bees feed the larvae with royal jelly.
* Departure: Once the new queens are almost ready to emerge, the old queen and a large group of worker bees will leave the hive. They often fly in a dense, swirling cloud, which is what we see as a "swarm."
* Temporary Cluster: The swarm will typically cluster temporarily on a nearby object, like a tree branch, fence post, or even a car. This temporary resting spot can last from a few hours to several days.
* Scout Bees: During this time, "scout bees" go out to search for a suitable permanent location for their new hive, looking for factors like size, protection from elements, and accessibility.
* New Home: Once a new home is found and agreed upon, the entire cluster of bees will take flight again and move to their new location, where they will begin building comb, raising new brood, and gathering resources.
Important to note:
* Non-aggressive: Swarming bees are generally not aggressive. They are full of honey (they gorge themselves before leaving) and are focused on finding a new home, not defending a hive or honey stores. They are much less likely to sting unless provoked.
* A sign of health: A bee swarm is usually a sign of a healthy, prosperous colony, as only strong colonies have enough resources to divide and reproduce in this way.
* Beneficial: If you see a bee swarm, it's often best to leave them alone. They will typically move on within a day or two. If they are in an inconvenient or potentially hazardous location, it's recommended to contact a local beekeeper, who can safely collect and rehome them.

06/06/2025

When chickens are allowed to forage for insects, or when their feed is supplemented with insect meal, it can lead to several benefits for the chickens themselves and, consequently, for the quality of their eggs. Here's how:
1. Enhanced Nutritional Profile of Eggs:
* Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Insects, particularly certain species like black soldier fly larvae, are good sources of omega-3 fatty acids. When chickens consume these insects, these beneficial fats are transferred to their eggs. Eggs from insect-fed chickens (or pasture-raised chickens that naturally forage) have been shown to have higher levels of omega-3s and a more favorable omega-6 to omega-3 ratio compared to eggs from conventionally fed chickens. This is significant because omega-3s are crucial for human health, supporting brain function, heart health, and reducing inflammation.
* Vitamins: While research varies, some studies suggest that eggs from chickens with access to a more natural, insect-rich diet may have higher levels of certain vitamins, such as Vitamin E and potentially Vitamin D (if they also have access to sunlight).
* Carotenoids: Insects can contribute to the vibrant color of egg yolks. A darker, richer yolk color is often associated with a healthier, more nutrient-dense egg, and this can be influenced by the carotenoids present in insects.
2. Improved Chicken Health and Welfare:
* Natural Diet: Chickens are naturally omnivores and enjoy foraging for insects. Providing them with insect protein aligns with their natural behavior and dietary preferences, which can reduce stress and improve their overall well-being.
* Complete Protein: Insects provide a high-quality, complete protein source with all essential amino acids, which are vital for hen health, feather quality, and consistent egg production.
* Immune System Boost: Some research indicates that chitin, a component of insect exoskeletons, may have immunomodulatory effects, potentially strengthening the chickens' immune systems. Insects can also contain antimicrobial peptides.
* Reduced Stress and Better Behavior: Studies have shown that insect-fed hens can be less stressed, exhibit fewer injurious pecking behaviors, and have better feather coverage, leading to a healthier and happier flock.
* Increased Productivity: Some trials have demonstrated that insect-fed flocks lay more eggs for longer periods, with a slower drop in productivity as the flock ages.
3. Sustainability Benefits:
* Reduced Reliance on Soy and Fishmeal: Traditional chicken feeds often rely heavily on soy and fishmeal, which can have significant environmental impacts (deforestation, overfishing). Insects, especially those raised on food waste (like black soldier fly larvae), offer a highly sustainable alternative protein source, reducing the carbon footprint of egg production.
* Circular Economy: Raising insects on food waste helps to close the loop on food systems, converting waste into valuable animal feed and reducing landfill burden.
Important Note on "Better":
While eggs from insect-fed chickens generally offer nutritional advantages and contribute to better animal welfare and sustainability, it's important to note that the term "better" can be subjective. The precise nutritional improvements can vary depending on the specific insect species, the amount of insects in the diet, and other factors in the chicken's environment and overall feed.
Overall, the inclusion of insects in a chicken's diet provides a more natural, sustainable, and potentially more nutritious approach to egg production, yielding eggs with a superior nutritional profile and supporting healthier hens.

06/06/2025

Chickens should not be vegetarians because they are naturally omnivores. This means their digestive system and nutritional needs are designed to consume both plant and animal matter. Depriving them of animal products can lead to serious health issues.
Here's why a vegetarian diet is problematic for chickens:
* Essential Nutrients: Chickens require specific amino acids, like methionine, which are abundant in animal protein. A deficiency in these nutrients can lead to:
* Poor feather development
* Increased susceptibility to mites and parasites
* Aggression and cannibalism among the flock
* Natural Foraging Behavior: In the wild, chickens forage for a diverse diet that includes:
* Insects (bugs, worms, grubs)
* Small animals (mice, frogs, snakes)
* Seeds, grasses, and plants
This natural behavior provides them with the necessary animal protein and a stimulating environment.
* Digestive System: Chickens have a gizzard, a muscular organ that grinds down food. While it can handle grains, it's also well-suited for processing tougher animal matter.
* Protein and Fat Requirements: Like humans, chickens need a good amount of protein and fat in their diet for muscle development, tissue repair, egg production, and overall health. Animal sources provide these efficiently.
While some commercial "vegetarian-fed" chicken feeds exist, they often try to compensate for the lack of animal protein with synthetic amino acids or by including insects like dried mealworms (even though "vegetarian" typically excludes insects for humans). However, these substitutes may not be as effective as natural, whole food sources.
Ultimately, providing chickens with a varied, omnivorous diet that aligns with their natural instincts is crucial for their health, well-being, and productivity.