There’s this idea of homestead life that feels really dreamy.
Slow mornings. Fresh eggs in a basket. Kids running barefoot through the grass while sourdough rises on the counter.
And don’t get me wrong… those moments exist.
But they’re usually sandwiched between a whole lot of chaos, noise, mess, and “mom, watch this!!” while you’re elbow-deep in something that absolutely cannot be paused.
So if you’ve ever wondered what a day in the life of a homestead mom actually looks like, this is mine.
Morning: Before I’ve Even Had Coffee
Most days don’t start peacefully.
They start with a toddler calling for me… or a baby crying… or both.
I get up, usually already behind, and head straight into mom mode before my feet even hit the floor.
Breakfast is quick and simple. Nothing fancy, just something to get everyone fed before the next thing starts.
At the same time:
- I’m unloading the dishwasher (because yes, it runs every single night)
- Starting a load of laundry
- Letting the dog out
- Mentally tracking everything I need to do that day
And somewhere in there… I finally get my coffee.
Sometimes I drink it hot. Most days I don’t.
And honestly, sometimes the best gifts are the simple, everyday things that make this part of the day easier or just a little more enjoyable.
I rounded up a few of my favorites here
Mid-Morning: Chores + Kids (Always Together)
This is where homestead life really blends into motherhood.
There’s no “separating” chores from kids. They come with me for all of it.
We head outside and:
- Check animals
- Feed whoever needs feeding
- Refill waters
- Collect eggs (if the chickens cooperated that day)
The kids are usually right there with me… which means:
- It takes twice as long
- Someone is crying at least once
- Someone else is trying to carry something they definitely shouldn’t
But it also means they’re learning.
They’re learning responsibility, rhythms, and how to be part of something bigger than themselves.
Even if it feels chaotic in the moment.
Late Morning: Attempting Productivity
This is the window where I try to get things done.
Maybe it’s:
- Prepping dinner early (because evenings get busy fast)
- Cleaning up the kitchen (again)
- Working on the business during nap time
- Starting another load of laundry (there is always another load)
Some days it works.
Some days it turns into putting out small fires all morning instead.
And honestly… I’ve learned to expect that.
Afternoon: The Long Stretch
Afternoons can feel long, especially with little kids.
We slow things down a bit:
- Snacks (lots of snacks)
- Outside play when the weather allows
- Simple activities or just letting them entertain themselves
This is usually when I start dinner early.
Because if I don’t start by 3:00… it’s probably not happening the way I planned.
Homestead meals aren’t always from scratch like people think.
Sometimes it’s just getting something on the table while holding a baby and answering 47 questions.
And if you’re someone who likes to gift (or be gifted) things that actually get used in everyday life, those are the kinds of things I included in my guide too. Nothing over the top, just practical, meaningful favorites.
Evening: Everyone’s Tired (Including Me)
Evenings are full.
Dinner, cleanup, baths, bedtime routines.
It’s loud. It’s messy. It’s a little overwhelming.
But it’s also where some of my favorite moments happen:
- Sitting around the table together
- Watching the kids wind down
- That quiet feeling when everyone is finally asleep
And then…
I reset the house just enough to do it all over again tomorrow.
The Reality of Homestead Motherhood
Here’s the part people don’t always say:
Being a homestead mom is a lot.
It’s physical work, mental load, constant responsibility, and very little “off” time.
But it’s also:
- Watching your kids grow up outside instead of on screens
- Teaching them real-life skills every single day
- Building a slower, more intentional life
It’s not perfect.
It’s not always pretty.
But it’s ours.
Final Thoughts
If you’re in the middle of this season too, tired, stretched thin, but knowing deep down you wouldn’t trade it…
You’re not alone.
This life is messy and beautiful all at the same time.
And one day, we’ll probably miss even the parts that feel overwhelming right now.
And if you’re a mama and someone asks what you want…
maybe it’s not anything big.
Maybe it’s just something that makes your everyday life feel a little lighter, a little easier, or a little more you.
hey there!
I'm Sarah Elrod
I'm one half of Elrod Ranch and the person you will likely hear from the most! I am the creative marketer behind our brand. I'm a photographer, social media lover, and entrepreneurship nerd.
I'm super passionate about sharing our faily story and day to day lives which is exactly what you can expect around here!
Everything from recipes I am cooking up, to the animals we have, my best hacks for raising cow kids and more!
I'm so glad you're here!
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