Chickens and Farming Made Easy, Homestead, Backyard Chickens, Homesteading, Farm Life

My Top 3 Tricks to Running a Homestead (and Raising Chickens) as a Busy Mom

🚨 Heavenly Homestead Academy is ONE WEEK away! If you’re a mom building a homestead or drowning in the chaos of one, you need to be on this waitlist.
Head to LostSheepFarm.online, click “Connect With Us,”
and get HUGE early-bird discounts, bonuses, and first access when doors open. This course will help you build a peaceful, organized, God-centered homestead with systems that actually work for busy families.
Now—let’s jump into today’s episode.
If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed trying to run a homestead while raising kids, managing chickens, and keeping your house from imploding, this one’s for you. I’m sharing my top three tricks for running a homestead as a busy mom—simple, realistic systems you can start today. These are the exact routines we use here on Lost Sheep Farm to stay consistent without burnout.
Short, practical, faith-rooted, and designed for moms who want to homestead without losing their minds.
Connect with Lost Sheep Farm
https://lostsheepfarm.online/Facebook Group: Lost Sheep FarmEmail: LSF@heavenlyhenhouse.com

Starting a Homestead and Feeling Overwhelmed? My Top 4 Tips for New Homesteaders

Feeling overwhelmed by your land, garden, or backyard livestock? You’re not alone, mama! In this episode of Chickens and Farming Made Easy, Tori shares her top four practical tips for new homesteaders — designed specifically for moms and wives juggling family, home, and the dream of a thriving homestead.
We talk about starting small with what you already have, building one simple system at a time, embracing imperfection, and leaning on community for guidance so you don’t have to figure it all out alone. Plus, Tori shares how God can guide your homestead journey, helping you find peace and purpose in every step.
✨ Special Announcement: Heavenly Homestead Academy launches on Black Friday with a discounted early bird rate! This faith-centered, step-by-step course is designed to help you plan your land, garden, livestock, and daily routines without overwhelm. CEmail us NOW or our Facebook group Lost Sheep Farm for early bird details.
Whether you’re dreaming of your first garden, a few backyard chickens, or a full homestead, this episode will encourage, inspire, and give you practical steps to start with confidence.
Connect with Us:
TikTok: @lostsheepfarm
Facebook Group: Lost Sheep Farm
Email: LSF@heavenlyhenhouse.com

Greenhouse Dreams: Starting Seeds in Winter for a Head Start on Spring

Wondering what to plant in winter? Now is the perfect time to start your seeds indoors or in a greenhouse for a jumpstart on spring! In this episode, I share practical winter seed starting tips for beginners and experienced homesteaders alike — from choosing the best cool-weather crops like lettuce, kale, and spinach, to managing light, warmth, and watering for healthy seedlings. Learn how to grow your garden earlier, save money, and maximize your harvest even in the coldest months.
I also share our story rebuilding a 30x90 nursery greenhouse at Lost Sheep Farm and how winter planting is more than gardening — it’s a reminder to trust God’s timing, embrace new beginnings, and grow faith while growing food. Tune in for homesteading tips, greenhouse hacks, and winter garden inspiration that will get your spring crops thriving before the season even begins!
— Tori Gass
Connect with Us:TikTok: @lostsheepfarmFacebook Group: Lost Sheep FarmEmail: LSF@heavenlyhenhouse.com

Is It Too Cold to Raise Meat Birds in the Winter? What You NEED to Know Before You Buy

Winter brings all sorts of changes, good and bad, and if you’ve been wondering “Can I still raise meat birds when it’s cold?” — this episode is for you.
In this episode of Chickens and Farming Made Easy, I’m breaking down everything you need to know before buying late-season meat chicks. From cold weather challenges, timing, and breed suggestions, to what not to do to avoid stress, disease, or wasted feed, this episode will help you confidently raise your flock even as temperatures drop.
We also chat about:
Winter housing tips to keep your meat birds safe and healthy
Fast-growing vs. hardy breeds for late-season raising
How to plan feed, butchering, and growth for colder months
Sister-to-sister advice for busy moms trying to balance life and homestead goals
A little faith and encouragement: trusting God’s timing, even if your season feels “off”
Whether you’re a first-time meat bird raiser or a seasoned homesteader trying to squeeze in a late-season flock, this episode is packed with practical tips, funny mom moments, and faith-based encouragement to keep you moving forward without stress.
Connect with Us:
TikTok: @lostsheepfarm
Facebook Group: Lost Sheep Farm
Email: LSF@heavenlyhenhouse.com

Winterize Your Garden Beds Now: Simple Steps for Tired Homestead Moms (Plus What Not to Do)

Winter is coming, and if you’re a busy mom juggling kids, messes, and germs flying everywhere, your garden may feel like the last thing you have energy for. In this episode of Chickens and Farming Made Easy, I’m sharing simple, actionable steps to winterize your garden beds so your soil is protected, healthy, and ready for spring — without overwhelming yourself.
We talk about:
How to prep your beds based on your growing zone
3 easy steps to clear, feed, and cover your garden beds
What not to do — the common mistakes that can harm your soil
Tips for tired moms trying to keep life (and kids) under control
Finding peace, rest, and purpose as you steward your land
Plus, a little sister-to-sister heart talk about rest, grace, and faith, and why even a handful of leaves tossed on your beds is enough when it’s done with intention and trust in God.
Whether you’re a first-time gardener, a busy mom homesteader, or someone looking for simple winter prep tips, this episode is full of practical advice, encouragement, and faith-centered inspiration to keep you moving forward without stress.
Connect with Us:
TikTok: @lostsheepfarm
Facebook Group: Lost Sheep Farm
Email: LSF@heavenlyhenhouse.com

5 Common Mistakes New Chicken Owners Make in the Winter (and How to Fix Them Before It’s Too Late)

Are you a beginner chicken owner struggling through winter? Frozen waterers, drafty coops, and stressed chickens are common challenges that can make homesteading feel overwhelming. In this episode of Chickens and Farming Made Easy, I share the 5 most common mistakes new backyard chicken keepers make during winter and actionable tips to fix them before it’s too late.
You’ll learn how to:
Protect your flock from predators in cold weather
Prevent overcrowding in your coop
Ensure proper ventilation to avoid frostbite and illness
Maintain feed and water for healthy, happy chickens
Embrace stewardship over perfection in your homestead
Plus, I open up about my own life and homesteading failures, and how God can turn our mistakes — big or small — into opportunities to glorify Him. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed, discouraged, or unsure if you’re doing it “right,” this episode reminds you that Jesus is enough, and your setbacks don’t define your worth or your calling.
Whether you’re raising your first flock, navigating winter care, or looking for faith-based encouragement for your homestead, this episode is packed with practical tips, encouragement, and winter survival strategies for your backyard chickens.
Connect with Us:
TikTok: @lostsheepfarm
Facebook Group: Lost Sheep Farm
Email: LSF@heavenlyhenhouse.com

Keep Your Chickens Laying Through Cold Weather: 3 Tips You NEED to Know to Prepare for Winter

Winter is coming, y’all — but that doesn’t mean your egg basket has to go empty! 🥚❄️ In this episode, we’re talking all about how to keep your chickens laying strong through cold weather with three must-know winter prep tips.
Join me, Tori from Lost Sheep Farm, as I share exactly how we:✅ Layer bedding deep to create natural warmth✅ Seal off cold drafts while keeping good airflow✅ Use safe heat sources (like heat plates and thermo cubes) to protect our flock
We’ll talk about real-life homestead hacks to save time, money, and frustration this winter — plus, a powerful faith reminder from Isaiah 43:2 about how God walks with us through every cold season of life.
Whether you’re a beginner chicken keeper or a seasoned homesteader, this episode will help you prepare your coop, protect your flock, and trust God to provide in every season — feathers, frost, and all.
✨ Scripture: Isaiah 43:2 — “When you walk through the fire, you shall not be burned; the flames will not consume you.”
Connect with Us:🎵 TikTok: @lostsheepfarm📘 Facebook Group: Lost Sheep Farm📧 Email: LSF@heavenlyhenhouse.com
— Tori Gass

Known by Name: How We Butcher Chickens on Our Farm While Running a Successful Homestead

This weekend on Lost Sheep Farm, we had a full-on homestead adventure — we butchered chickens, moved our butcher station, and kept the farm running smoothly. 🐔 It was messy, humbling, and full of lessons about family, faith, and hard work.
In this episode, I share:
How we streamline our butchering process and keep the workflow efficient
Involving kids in farm life — our five-year-old pitched in while our 12-year-old watched the baby
The spiritual lessons God teaches in the hard, messy work — including a reflection on Acts 19:13–16, where demons ask, “Jesus I know, and Paul I know about, but who are you?”
How knowing Jesus gives us authority, courage, and confidence, even in the most intimidating tasks
Moments of laughter, chaos, and gratitude that remind us God shows up in every detail
Whether you’re starting your first flock, managing a busy homestead, or just looking for encouragement in the hard work God calls you to, this episode will leave you inspired, practical, and smiling.
“Every branch that bears fruit, He prunes so that it will be even more fruitful.” — John 15:2
Connect with Us:🎵 TikTok: @lostsheepfarm📘 Facebook Group: Lost Sheep Farm📧 Email: LSF@heavenlyhenhouse.com

Start Your First Backyard Flock: Must-Have Tips for Growing Your Farm, Simplifying the Clutter, and Trusting God with the Rest

Thinking about starting your first backyard chicken flock but not sure where to begin? 🐔 In this episode, I’m breaking down must-have tips for growing your farm, simplifying the clutter in your life and homestead, and trusting God with the rest. Whether you’re a total beginner or just need encouragement to start small, this episode is full of practical advice, faith-filled reflections, and a little humor from life on Lost Sheep Farm.
We’ll talk about:
Choosing your first flock and beginner-friendly breeds
Setting up a simple, budget-friendly coop
Managing clutter and letting go of what no longer serves you — in your home, your farm, and your heart
How the Holy Spirit guides you through the wilderness moments of homesteading and life
Faith, patience, and trust when you can’t yet see the ending
If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by all the things you think you need to start a farm, or if you’re ready to plant your mustard seeds and trust God for growth, this episode is for you!
“Every branch that bears fruit, He prunes so that it will be even more fruitful.” — John 15:2
Connect with Us:TikTok: @lostsheepfarmFacebook Group: Lost Sheep FarmEmail: LSF@heavenlyhenhouse.com

Raising Chickens for Eggs vs. Raising Birds for Meat: Which One’s Easier (and Why We Do Both on Our Farm)

Raising chickens for eggs or raising birds for meat — which one is really easier? If you’re a beginner homesteader wondering how to start your flock, this episode is for you! We’re breaking down the real pros and cons of layers vs. meat birds, from feed and care to daily routines and freezer prep.
We’ll also share why our family chooses to do both on our homestead, how we balance the work with kids, faith, and everyday life, and what God has taught us through every season of raising chickens. Whether you’re dreaming of fresh eggs every morning, planning for a stocked freezer, or just curious about the realities of backyard chickens, this episode gives you the honest, faith-filled answers you need.
Tune in to hear our personal journey — including the chaos, the lessons, and yes, how having my husband home makes all the difference on a busy farm day!
– Tori Gass
Connect with Us:📸TikTok: @lostsheepfarm👩‍🌾 Facebook Group: Lost Sheep Farm✉️ Email: LSF@heavenlyhenhouse.com