I am pleased to host this week's Carnival of Homesteading. I'm calling this one the "Beginning the Farewell to Summer Edition" as we are going back to school and about to welcome the harvest season.

Let's begin in the barnyard, shall we? 

It's no secret that chickens are my favorite animal. Though I call myself "The Chicken Whisperer" I'm sure I could learn a lot from Fowl Visions. They have a wonderful series on different breeds of chickens. Very informative!

Our dear Jocelyn had a surprise in her barn... yesterday, she had 7, but today she has 12! Check out the photos of the precious additions to her family farm. What a blessing! Some animals on the farm are not so welcomed. We all have to deal with pests from time to time. If you've had the unfortunate experience of dealing with pocket gophers, you'll want to read this article from Measure Twice, Cut Once. 

They're oil painting in the 100 Acre Woods...motor oil, that is! Check out this useful way to use up old oil and preserve your untreated wood and metal at the same time.

And how about a walk through the gardens...

It's nearing the end of season for the homestead gardens, but some of us are still going strong! It's bloomin' time at Amanda's homestead and she has shared some of her flowers with us. Can you tell which is her favorite? They're all lovely! There is an abundance of tomatoes in my garden and we are enjoying them. Today, I made Roasted Tomato Sauce and tomorrow, I will be trying this wonderful recipe for Broiled Tomatoes with Parmesan from Southern Plate. 

We planted a lot of zucchini this year, and it can be a bit overwhelming deciding what to do with the Zucchini Bonanza. Did you know that you can substitute it for crushed pineapple? Sit a spell on The Front Porch and you'll find the recipe! 

Let's go inside the farmhouse to visit now. Soon the air will have a chill and we'll all be chased indoors. It's time to feather your nest and create a cozy warm retreat for your family. I have started fall cleaning in our home. In fact, I am growing my own sponges! Here's a clever idea for wash day. How about making your own washing stick?

Victorian washerwomen used these "poss sticks" to keep their hands out of water. This stick can be used in many ways for the modern homesteader. Perhaps it could even be used to wash your little one's cloth diapers. If you are interested in Starting Cloth Diapering in a Budget, be sure to read this article.

Oak Hill Homestead asks, "What's in your kitchen?" and shares her most treasured and useful kitchen tools...

She has a lovely rolling pin and story to go along with it. It is a great time to take inventory and to get ready to bake those warm fall goodies. I know that's one of my favorite things when it's cold outside--a cup of tea and a sweet treat like Pumpkin Cranberry Amish Friendship Bread. It would be even better made with homemade vanilla. I agree with Chas, homemade is best!

Organic is also best, but it can be confusing and expensive to buy it. Amanda has shared 12 foods that you don't have to buy organic, which will certainly help you with your shopping. Speaking of food and cooking, do you know if you have fresh eggs or not? Fowl Visions can help you find out.

Thank you for visiting with me today. I hope you enjoyed it. Please send in your submissions for next week's Carnival, and visit our host Laura Williams Musings. It'll be the first day of September! :-)