Research

So this is probably one of my favorite pastimes involved in self sufficient living so I thought I’d write a post on it. Research.

Before I do anything: start a project, plant a seed, buy an animal, I do research. I try to become familiar with the nuances of owning an animal for example: what do they eat, where are they from, what’s a typical climate or natural environment, what species works best for my environment. The list goes on and on, but the more I learn the less scary it is to accomplish that goal. I am a worry wart, when I get a new animal I will spend hours studying its behavior, monitoring cage conditions, running through scenarios trying to solve problems before they happen. Research doesn’t tell you everything so you take the plunge and apply what you’ve learned. You’re going to fall short. You’re going to make mistakes. That’s ok. I’ve only lost 1 rabbit and it wasn’t anyones fault. It was still devastating. I harvested a rabbit for meat and even though that’s part of the reason I got the rabbits, it was hard. I form bonds and strong attachments with animals in order to provide the best possible life for them. So when it comes time for me to harvest meat for the season it’s tough on me emotionally. That’s ok though, I wouldn’t have it any other way. It teaches me to be kind and to be resourceful and not make careless mistakes.

I know during COVID and the holidays things can be tough emotionally so I wanted to share something heartfelt and encouraging. Self sufficient lifestyles aren’t always easy, but it is always rewarding. Happy Thanksgiving everyone!