Generated by Rank Math SEO, this is an llms.txt file designed to help LLMs better understand and index this website.

# Adventures in Homesteading & Hospitality: Live in a place you love

## Sitemaps
[XML Sitemap](https://www.robinanddan.com/sitemap_index.xml): Includes all crawlable and indexable pages.

## Posts
- [New Ranch Activity-Skeet Shooting](https://www.robinanddan.com/new-ranch-activity-skeet-shooting/): An afternoon of skeet shooting at the ranch!
- [Greenhouse Update:  More Trellis Please!](https://www.robinanddan.com/greenhouse-update-more-trellis-please/): Building a Greenhouse Trellis for Fast-Growing Tomatoes The greenhouse is buzzing with growth this season—our tomatoes, cucumbers, and even green beans are shooting up faster than we imagined! To keep up with their wild climb, Dano is reinforcing the greenhouse with a sturdy trellis system. Using scrap wood, he cuts them into small 1-inch pieces and secures them along the tall wall, giving the plants the support they need to keep thriving. This is our very first year with a greenhouse, and every new project feels like a little adventure. I never quite know what Dano has planned, but I’m always grateful (and excited!) when he jumps in to help. Thanks, Dano!
- [Giving New Life to Abalone Shells](https://www.robinanddan.com/giving-new-life-to-abalone-shells/): Project of the Day: Giving New Life to Abalone Shells
- [Off-Grid Seed Saving Project #2 (short video)](https://www.robinanddan.com/off-grid-seed-saving-project-2-short-video/): Saving Marigold Seeds, Fall Planting Trial, and Pest Protection in My Garden
- [How Hand Pollination Worked in My Garden (Pumpkin Update)](https://www.robinanddan.com/how-hand-pollination-worked-in-my-garden-pumpkin-update/): Hand Pollination Success!
- [Water Conservation Update: Rocks added overflow trench](https://www.robinanddan.com/water-conservation-update-rocks-added-overflow-trench/): https://youtube.com/shorts/dKnmTLYFImc
- [Chickens and Eggs all in one day! So happy](https://www.robinanddan.com/chickens-and-eggs-all-in-one-day-so-happy/): What came first—the chicken or the egg? Either way, we’re officially in the chicken game! Today, we were gifted FOUR beautiful hens by a fellow homesteader (thank you!!), and our brand new chicken coop just became a happy little hen home. From building the coop to welcoming our feathered ladies, it’s all part of our off-grid homesteading journey. Come see the big reveal, the hilarious chicken introductions, and our first steps into fresh eggs and chicken antics!
- [Saving Marigold Seeds Fall Planting Trial Pest Protection in My Garden](https://www.robinanddan.com/saving-marigold-seeds-fall-planting-trial-pest-protection-in-my-garden/): Saving Marigold Seeds, Fall Planting Trial, and Pest Protection in My Garden
- [Chicken Tractor (full video)](https://www.robinanddan.com/chicken-tractor-full-video/): Dano built a heavy-duty chicken coop/tractor, and our homestead just got even better—we were gifted 4 chickens from a neighbor! In just over a week, they’ve already blessed us with a few dozen fresh eggs. This mobile coop is no lightweight project—
- [Chicken Coup/Tractor is almost done!](https://www.robinanddan.com/chicken-coup-tractor-is-almost-done/): We will post the full build when complete!
- [Today’s Project: Pumpkin Pollination](https://www.robinanddan.com/todays-project-pumpkin-pollination/): Todays Project: Pumpkin Pollination
- [First Ride | 1984 Chevy Silverado](https://www.robinanddan.com/first-ride-1984-chevy-silverado-2/): We have added a new truck to our Ranch. We picked up this sweet barn find while working in New Mexico.
- [Overflow Water from Our Tank Feeds the Garden! | Off-Grid Water System in Action](https://www.robinanddan.com/overflow-water-from-our-tank-feeds-the-garden-off-grid-water-system-in-action/): In today’s video, I walk you through a simple but powerful part of our off-grid system — how overflow from our water tank is repurposed to nourish our in-ground vegetable garden.
- [First Ride | 1984 Chevy Silverado](https://www.robinanddan.com/first-ride-1984-chevy-silverado/): https://youtu.be/EFXO6EIx67E?si=QVKxv6MQFhaYhYDZ
- [Drone View Main Homestead](https://www.robinanddan.com/drone-view-main-homestead/): https://youtu.be/PIe9YDf_HpU?si=ZHbVktJa7w7JYttO
- [Busy Ranch & Family](https://www.robinanddan.com/busy-ranch-family/): A day at JDK Ranchette.
- [Garden Window Box-Bolting Cilantro re-cap](https://www.robinanddan.com/garden-window-box-bolting-cilantro-re-cap-2/): Pollinator Tip: Flowering cilantro attracts tiny wasps, bees, and hoverflies—nature’s pest control crew! Hit that like button if you’re working toward more sustainability in your garden, and don’t forget to subscribe for more homesteading tips from JDK Ranchette—where we work hard, play hard, and grow with purpose.
- [Dano Turning Scrap Wood into Garden Protection](https://www.robinanddan.com/dano-turning-scrap-wood-into-garden-protection/): Dano is Turning Scrap Wood into Garden Protection | Predator Proofing with Purpose Today at the JDK Ranchette, we're tackling a long-standing goal—reducing our massive scrap wood pile! The video starts by showing the current size of the pile and our intention to slowly bring it down to a more manageable amount through purposeful reuse. Next, Dano gets to work cutting large wood pieces down into uniform strips measuring 1"x16"x1/4". To streamline the process, we’ve rigged up a wheelbarrow to catch the strips as they’re cut—efficiency at its finest! Finally, we put those strips to good use by weaving them into our existing wire fencing. This simple, low-cost method adds another layer of predator protection to both our in-ground and raised bed vegetable gardens, helping safeguard our crops while repurposing materials we already have on hand. Thanks for joining us on another day of off-grid homesteading and resourceful living! Please know that we appreciate your comments, likes, shares, and subscribing!
- [Garden Window Box-Bolting Cilantro re-cap](https://www.robinanddan.com/garden-window-box-bolting-cilantro-re-cap/): Re-cap on the previous seed saving discussion and Dano's in the shot (he makes me smile)!
- [Letting Cilantro Bolt | Seed Saving](https://www.robinanddan.com/letting-cilantro-bolt-seed-saving/): Seed-Saving Tip: Let cilantro fully dry before harvesting to ensure seeds store well. Store in a cool, dark place in a paper envelope or glass jar.
- [Morning Coffee with the Hummingbirds](https://www.robinanddan.com/837-2/): Morning Coffee Observation-Love the hummingbirds
- [Start/End Mulching Project #homestead #mulching #woodchipper #excavator #offgrid #ranchlife #azlife](https://www.robinanddan.com/start-end-mulching-project-homestead-mulching-woodchipper-excavator-offgrid-ranchlife-azlife/): Mulching the Medicinal Garden with Juniper | Off-Grid Homestead Water Retention in the High Desert In this video, we’re teaming up with our local friends @bear_swipe_excavating to mulch and protect the planted beds in our medicinal garden at JDK Ranchette. Bear Swipe operates the excavator to collect downed juniper trees that have been scattered across the land for years — likely the result of earlier range management practices common in northeastern Arizona, where ranchers cleared juniper to increase forage for cattle in open graze country. These downed trees are now getting a second life. After loading the juniper into Dan’s dump trailer and delivering it to the garden area, Dano and Mick fire up the gas-powered woodchipper. We process the branches under 4" in diameter into mulch, while larger pieces are set aside for stacking and seasoning as future winter firewood. Once chipped, I (Robin) spread the mulch around all our planted areas. The video walks through the freshly mulched beds and shows how much better they’re now retaining water. In the high desert, mulching is critical — not only to preserve moisture in our dry soils but also to protect against erosion caused by intense summer monsoon rains. Every bit of this project is about stewardship — reusing what the land provides, preparing for the seasons ahead, and working as a family to build something sustainable.
- [Garden Predator-Proofing #predator #raisedbedgarden #azlife #repurposedmaterials #offgridhomestead](https://www.robinanddan.com/garden-predator-proofing-predator-raisedbedgarden-azlife-repurposedmaterials-offgridhomestead/): Predator-Proofing the Garden with Reclaimed Materials | Off-Grid Homestead Solutions In this video, we’re tackling an important issue—protecting our garden from local wildlife! Dano and Mick are hard at work predator-proofing both our raised bed and in-ground garden spaces after noticing signs of unwanted visitors. We’ve likely had a jackrabbit munching on our pumpkins and zucchini, and we’ve spotted tracks from deer, pronghorn, and even bobcats around the property. To keep our crops safe, we’re using leftover materials from our house build—posts, cattle panels, and wire—to build a sturdy barrier. We’re digging below grade to bury the wire and panels, creating an underground deterrent, then securing the perimeter with posts and fencing. To help with our high winds, we’re installing leftover exterior siding along the west and south sides of the garden, about 3–4 feet high. This provides a natural windbreak while still allowing plenty of sunlight to reach both the garden and our nearby solar array. And when we’re not actively growing food—especially during the winter months—we’ll repurpose this space for chickens (coming soon!) to graze and scratch. Their natural behavior will help till the soil, and their manure will enrich it, giving us a nutrient-rich foundation for planting next spring. We hope our resourceful, low-cost solutions can inspire and support others on their off-grid or homesteading journeys. Thanks for watching and being part of life here at JDK Ranchette!
- [Ranch Life – Teamwork #offgridhomestead #ranchlife #greenhouses #azlife #medicinalgarden #equipment](https://www.robinanddan.com/ranch-life-teamwork-offgridhomestead-ranchlife-greenhouses-azlife-medicinalgarden-equipment/): Life on the Ranch – Teamwork, Projects & Homestead Dreams Another productive day here at JDK Ranchette! There’s always something happening, and everyone is pitching in to keep our homestead moving forward. Our friend Bryan is hard at work fencing the perimeter of our lower 2+ acres — a space we dream of transforming into a community garden and orchard. Dan is prepping the front porch area with back blading so we can soon lay and compact 3/8” gravel. Mick and Danielle are hauling in the gravel, while I’m focused on watering and mulching the medicinal garden beds. Meanwhile, the grandchildren are lending their hands by harvesting chamomile and collecting cilantro seeds from the plants that have gone to bolt. As we document our journey, I’m also working to improve my video editing skills so I can better show the how behind what we do — the projects we complete, the lessons we learn, and the systems that help us live more sustainably. My hope is that by sharing our progress, we can help other homesteading families, or maybe even inspire someone dreaming of leaving the city behind to build a life closer to the land. Thank you for following along with us!
- [Crazy fuzzy crawler-What is it? #whatisit #offgridhomestead #ranchlife #azlife #bugslife #happiness](https://www.robinanddan.com/crazy-fuzzy-crawler-what-is-it-whatisit-offgridhomestead-ranchlife-azlife-bugslife-happiness/): Dano spotted this fuzzy little crawler yesterday running across the property. it was about the size of a pencil eraser, two body parts (i think), fuzzy white with a blue sheen. It was fast too! If you know what this is, please comment below! Thank you and make it a great day!
- [Dry Monsoon at the ranch July 3, 2025 #monsoon #offgridhomestead #azlife #windyweather #ranchlife](https://www.robinanddan.com/dry-monsoon-at-the-ranch-july-3-2025-monsoon-offgridhomestead-azlife-windyweather-ranchlife/): Just as we finished planting the first round of herbs in our new medicinal garden, Dan and I were taking a well-earned break, sitting on the fence and admiring our work. Suddenly, our daughter—who recently moved here with her family from the East Coast—came running outside calling, “Mom, Dad, come out back! There’s a storm or something coming—can you hear it?” We paused, listened... and sure enough, we could hear the unmistakable sound of a monsoon racing toward us. We quickly joined her and the grandkids out back, and rushed everyone inside just as the storm rolled in fast and fierce. This video captures the moment I dashed from the house to the greenhouse to close it up before the winds could cause too much trouble. Thankfully, aside from getting pelted with dust and watching a few disc golf baskets go flying across the ranch, everything (and everyone) weathered the storm just fine. Life off-grid sure keeps us on our toes—especially during Arizona’s monsoon season! If you haven't already, we would greatly appreciate you subscribing to our channel. We welcome your likes and comments as well! Have a great day~
- [Today is about making mulch! #offgridhomestead #azlife #ranchlife #sustainableliving #permaculture](https://www.robinanddan.com/today-is-about-making-mulch-offgridhomestead-azlife-ranchlife-sustainableliving-permaculture/): Today’s project is all about putting in the work to care for our land—and having some great help along the way. We’re collecting fallen and trimmed juniper trees and running them through the chipper to create mulch for future projects around the ranch. With our tractor down for a few days, we called in the pros at Bear Swipe Excavating (@bear_swipe_excavating) to help keep the job moving. They showed up ready to work, helping us load heavy wood into our dump trailer so we could keep the cleanup and mulching going strong. This is what ranch life is all about: showing up, working hard, and building something lasting together. And when the work’s done—you better believe we make time to enjoy the place we love. Work Hard / Play Hard. Thank you for following along on our off-grid homesteading journey in the Arizona mountains. Stay tuned for more projects, gardening updates, and real-life ranch living. #JuniperMulch #Homesteading #OffGridLife #WorkHardPlayHard #ArizonaRanch #BearSwipeExcavating #RanchProjects #SustainableLiving #Permaculture
- [Dust Devils have no boundaries! #dustdevil #ranchlife #greenhouses #azlife #offgridhomestead #dirt](https://www.robinanddan.com/dust-devils-have-no-boundaries-dustdevil-ranchlife-greenhouses-azlife-offgridhomestead-dirt/): Had a couple of dust or dirt devils go through the greenhouse and property. Caught this one as I was creating a video about the medicinal garden. Have a great day!
- [Window Garden Box is blooming #offgridhomestead #azlife #gardening #greenhouses #ranchlife #beelove](https://www.robinanddan.com/window-garden-box-is-blooming-offgridhomestead-azlife-gardening-greenhouses-ranchlife-beelove/): Why Nasturtiums? Well, other than memories from My Suburban Roots, here are a few thing that I have learned since starting my off-grid homestead lifestyle:
- [Thistle on property #medicinalgarden #ArizonaThistle #WildHerbs #Homesteading #ranchlife #OffGrid](https://www.robinanddan.com/thistle-on-property-medicinalgarden-arizonathistle-wildherbs-homesteading-ranchlife-offgrid/): Starting Our Medicinal Garden | Wild Arizona Thistle Along the Fence Line Welcome back to the ranch! In today’s video, I’m sharing the first steps in developing our medicinal garden space. As we begin planting and planning, I’ve taken time to observe the wild plants already thriving here—and one of the most striking is the native Arizona thistle (Cirsium arizonicum), which grows along the length of our property. Instead of disturbing this beautiful wild plant by transplanting it into the medicinal garden, I’ve decided to leave it where it naturally grows. Not only does this protect the thistle’s role in the ecosystem, but it also prevents it from becoming too invasive around the other delicate medicinal herbs I’ll be cultivating. The Arizona thistle has been traditionally valued in herbal practices. While research is limited, it’s believed to have the following medicinal uses:
- [Next Chapter Starts Now! #ranchlife #family #homesteading #offgridliving #garden #growyourownfood](https://www.robinanddan.com/next-chapter-starts-now-ranchlife-family-homesteading-offgridliving-garden-growyourownfood/): Join us as we welcome my daughter, son-in-law, five lively grandchildren, and their two dogs to our off-grid ranch! This aerial journey marks the start of an exciting new chapter—watch as they drive in from across country to build their own homestead, growing food and forging a sustainable, self-sufficient life. We’re not just planting seeds in the soil—we’re sowing roots for family legacy, resilience, and sustainable living away from city life. For your grading and excavating needs, check out @bear_swipe_excavating on Instagram if you’re inspired by homesteading dreams and family togetherness, please LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and hit the bell so you don’t miss the next milestones in their journey!
- [Off-Grid Greenhouse is complete! #ranchlife #greenhouses #offgridhomestead #diy #smallranch #peace](https://www.robinanddan.com/off-grid-greenhouse-is-complete-ranchlife-greenhouses-offgridhomestead-diy-smallranch-peace/): Our off-grid greenhouse is officially complete—and I couldn't be more thrilled! It's not only beautiful but also functional and ready to grow fresh, nutritious, and delicious food for our family. We built this greenhouse on a budget by repurposing leftover materials from our ranch house build and scoring great deals at a local auction. All the windows and sliding glass doors cost just $225 total, and we picked up bundles of wood for anywhere between $40 and $100. The main items we purchased new were the polycarbonate roofing and the concrete and rebar for the footings. One of my favorite features is the large window garden box on the exterior, perfect for herbs and flowers. I'm hoping it becomes a haven for local pollinators! Thanks for watching and following along on our off-grid journey—more to come soon! Please feel free to like and subscribe / YouTube channel @liveinaplaceyoulove #JDKRanchette
- [Blast from the past – Bucket Ride!](https://www.robinanddan.com/blast-from-the-past-bucket-ride/): The building process was as exciting as it was a challenge! One day, my neighbor came with me to the ranch build and taught me a fun little event. I lined the tractor bucket with a blanket, and he took me for a "bucket ride" around the ranch. Memories of our build
- [New Chapter at the Ranchette! Family Moves In & Medicinal Garden Plans Begin](https://www.robinanddan.com/new-chapter-at-the-ranchette-family-moves-in-medicinal-garden-plans-begin/): We’re entering a new and joyful season at the JDK Ranchette; our daughter, son-in-law, five grandchildren, and their two pups have officially joined us on the ranch! Life just got a whole lot busier… and a whole lot more beautiful.
- [Window Garden Box is blooming](https://www.robinanddan.com/window-garden-box-is-blooming/): https://youtube.com/shorts/7bURrYbm8TM
- [Family Time on the Ranch Greenhouse Harvest! #greenhouses #garden #offgridhomestead #ranchlifestyle](https://www.robinanddan.com/family-time-on-the-ranch-greenhouse-harvest-greenhouses-garden-offgridhomestead-ranchlifestyle/): Family Time on the Ranch | Greenhouse Harvests & Homemade Meals We’re feeling extra grateful this week with our granddaughters, Lulu and Scout, visiting the ranch! Just a quick peek inside our off-grid life to show how the greenhouse is already feeding our family—one harvest at a time. Yesterday we picked fresh serrano peppers for Dano’s famous Pad Thai, and today it’s homegrown basil for homemade pizza. It’s a joy to watch our hard work turn into real food for the people we love. Thanks for following along with our off-grid homesteading journey—your support means so much!
- [Off-Grid DIY Greenhouse Tour](https://www.robinanddan.com/off-grid-diy-greenhouse-tour/): DIY Off-Grid Greenhouse Built from Repurposed Materials | Arizona Homestead Life
- [Greenhouse Build is complete!](https://www.robinanddan.com/greenhouse-build-is-complete/): Our off-grid greenhouse is officially complete—and I couldn't be more thrilled! It's not only beautiful but also functional and ready to grow fresh, nutritious, and delicious food for our family. We built this greenhouse on a budget by repurposing leftover materials from our ranch house build and scoring great deals at a local auction. All the windows and sliding glass doors cost just $225 total, and we picked up bundles of wood for anywhere between $40 and $100. The main items we purchased new were the polycarbonate roofing and the concrete and rebar for the footings. One of my favorite features is the large window garden box on the exterior, perfect for herbs and flowers. I'm hoping it becomes a haven for local pollinators!
- [Safe Snake Slithering](https://www.robinanddan.com/safe-snake-slithering/): Getting acquainted with the locals! I walked right by this snake, but Dano alerted me. I didn't freak out! Surprised myself. I have been learning how to identify poisonous vs. nonpoisonous snakes, this one is safe. Pretty sure this is a rat snake. Very cool the way it glides away so smoothly. Have a great day!
- [Greenhouse Update – Windows In, Insulation Done, and Momentum Building!](https://www.robinanddan.com/greenhouse-update-windows-in-insulation-done-and-momentum-building/): Exciting progress on our greenhouse build! All the windows are officially installed and sealed, insulation is in place, and we’ve started putting up the Hardie board.
- [Greenhouse Update:  Walls are going UP!](https://www.robinanddan.com/greenhouse-update-walls-are-going-up/): Greenhouse Build Update! The greenhouse walls are going up! Dano has been hard at work framing, and it’s incredible to see this dream of growing our own food come to life. Staying budget-conscious, we’ve been resourceful—using leftover materials from our home build and scoring great deals at auctions. Our biggest expenses? The concrete foundation and the polycarbonate roofing panels, which are worth every penny. These panels provide excellent insulation, diffuse sunlight evenly, and help maintain a stable growing environment—keeping plants warm in cooler months while preventing scorching in the summer. Can’t wait to start planting! Thank you so much for checking in on our progress.
- [Today’s Project: Worm Bed](https://www.robinanddan.com/todays-project-worm-bed/): Believe it or not, Dan and my brother Mike were worm farmers when we were kids! Growing up next door to each other in a suburban neighborhood, they built a thriving worm bed in the side yard—home to thousands of wriggling compost champions. Fast forward a few decades, and Dan is putting that childhood experience to work again—this time turning an old portable bathtub into a DIY worm farm! We've spent the last year learning more about composting, and as our greenhouse nears completion and we plan out our in-ground garden beds, it's time to level up our composting game—both in skill and volume. We are appreciative of the many YouTube videos that we have watched to get us up-to-date! Composting Tips we have noted: Choose a shady spot to keep your worm bed cool and prevent overheating. Drill drainage holes to keep moisture balanced and avoid soggy conditions. Layer bedding materials like shredded newspaper, cardboard, and aged compost. Feed your worms small amounts of fruit and veggie scraps—no meat or dairy! Harvest the worm castings every few months for a nutrient-rich boost to your garden soil. Whether you're just getting started or looking to expand your composting setup, we hope this inspires you to get creative and reuse what you have on hand. Happy worm farming!
- [Woke Up to a Bovine Breakfast Party | Life in Open Range Country](https://www.robinanddan.com/woke-up-to-a-bovine-breakfast-party-life-in-open-range-country/): Living in an open range area means you never know who might stop by — and this morning, it was a herd of curious cows! I forgot to close the gate last night, and sure enough, I woke up to several unexpected guests grazing around the ranch. Thankfully, we had plenty of food to keep them happy, and after a calm and gentle walk back to the gate, they politely saw themselves out — no drama, just classic country living. If you’ve ever wondered what life is like surrounded by free-ranging cattle, this is a perfect example. Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more real moments from ranch life! #OpenRange #RanchLife #CountryLiving #UnexpectedGuests #CattleVisit
- [Greenhouse Project Update #3 Concrete Footing Pour](https://www.robinanddan.com/greenhouse-project-update-3-concrete-footing-pour/): Greenhouse Build Update! Concrete Pour Day! Dan’s back, and it’s go time! The concrete truck has arrived, pumping fresh concrete into the greenhouse footings. Dan and Bryan are hard at work leveling off the tops, making sure everything is set just right. Once it cures, we’ll be ready for the next big step—standing up the walls… well, more like windows than walls! This greenhouse is coming together, and we can’t wait to start growing! Stay tuned for the next phase! #GreenhouseBuild #OffGridLiving #homesteadinglife
- [Greenhouse Project Update #2 – Ready to pour concrete footings](https://www.robinanddan.com/greenhouse-project-update-2-ready-to-pour-concrete-footings/): Greenhouse Build Update! The foundation work is coming along! The trenching is done, forms are leveled and squared, and the rebar and anchor bolts are set in place. Now, we just need to line up a pump truck and order a 5-yard batch of concrete for the pour—Dan’s best estimate. Once the concrete is in, I’ll backfill the spillways with the dirt left in the center of the greenhouse and level off the tops. We’re getting closer to growing our own food, and we couldn’t be more excited! Stay tuned for the next steps! #GreenhouseBuild #OffGridLiving #Homesteading
- [Greenhouse Project Update #1 – Rebar bend made easy!](https://www.robinanddan.com/greenhouse-project-update-1-rebar-bend-made-easy/): Day 4 of the greenhouse build, and Dan has found a simple hack to make bending rebar easier! Instead of struggling, he’s working smarter, not harder. Here’s how: He measures and marks where the bend needs to be, then uses the steel pipes of our solar array as leverage. By placing the rebar inside the pipe and applying his weight, he effortlessly bends it into shape. A quick and efficient trick to save time and energy!
- [Ranch Update: Light it up! Exterior lighting complete. #offgridhomestead #ranchliving #ranchlife](https://www.robinanddan.com/ranch-update-light-it-up-exterior-lighting-complete-offgridhomestead-ranchliving-ranchlife/): Arriving home in the pitch dark with no street lights in sight can be challenging, especially as the days get shorter. Thankfully, my friend, foreman, and master electrician Bryan Beck gifted me a remote to keep in my car. With just one press, it lights up the house, making it safer and easier to navigate in the dark. While I'm a big fan of dark sky communities and try to avoid contributing to light pollution, this small safety measure brings me peace of mind. Grateful for this thoughtful gift!
- [Car vs Fence; the car won! #ranchlife #offgridhomestead #fencing #liveinaplaceyoulove](https://www.robinanddan.com/car-vs-fence-the-car-won-ranchlife-offgridhomestead-fencing-liveinaplaceyoulove/): The other night a car apparently crashed into our 7 wire fence in the lower 20 acre section of the property. Thank goodness we had create a wood pile in that exact section, or the car most likely would have taken out our window stock for the greenhouse build, as well as our shed! I really hope whoever hit this wood pile is ok.
- [Ranch Update: Learning the fly the drone #offgridhomestead #ranchliving #dronevideo #loveourhome](https://www.robinanddan.com/ranch-update-learning-the-fly-the-drone-offgridhomestead-ranchliving-dronevideo-loveourhome/): Dan is back, and we’re making great progress—so close to finishing up the interior! In the meantime, I’ve been honing my drone piloting skills and wanted to share footage from one of my recent flights. Capturing the ranch build from above has been such an exciting way to document this journey. For this flight, I focused on showcasing the breathtaking views: a stunning sunset to the west and the moonrise casting its glow to the east. The contrast between the two made for a magical scene. While I still have a lot to learn, every flight is a step closer to mastering the art of aerial videography—definitely a case of “on-the-job training!” Thank you for checking in and following along as we bring this dream to life!
- [Great Room Update](https://www.robinanddan.com/great-room-update/): Take a quick look at the progress in the Great Room! I’m thrilled with how much natural light pours in through the doors and windows, creating a bright and inviting atmosphere. To stay within budget, I handmade the curtains using a fabric that lets in soft light during the day while providing privacy at night. The fireplace is still a work in progress and will eventually feature tile, wooden shelves, and firewood storage boxes on either side. The dining table was a fantastic auction find for just $15, and my friend updated the chair pads with thicker foam seats and chic faux cowhide fabric. From the soaring ceilings and wood beams to the tongue-and-groove ceiling, expansive glass doors, and stunning windows, this is easily my favorite space that Dan and I have created so far.
- [Quick Tour of Ranch Bedrooms (so far)](https://www.robinanddan.com/quick-tour-of-ranch-bedrooms-so-far/): The interior is nearing completion, and with the build running over budget, I’ve been embracing creative, DIY solutions to finish some of the spaces. This video offers a quick tour of our bedrooms so far. In the Bunk Room, which accommodates six, we scored an antique cedar chest at auction for just $20—it’s now the perfect storage solution for extra linens. In Guest Room 2, we crafted unique nightstands using planters, round wood pieces from Home Depot, and faux leather fabric, which we neatly secured underneath. In the hallway, a refinished dresser, purchased for $30 from a neighbor, now serves as an ideal storage unit for my sewing machine and supplies, thanks to the incredible work of a friend. As for the main bedroom, we repurposed our existing furniture and finishes to keep costs down while maintaining a cohesive look. While I plan to revisit and refine these spaces for a more polished finish in the future, we are officially guest-ready! @liveinaplaceyoulove
- [Tractor Tall Wall Pull](https://www.robinanddan.com/tractor-tall-wall-pull/): Who needs a big crew or fancy equipment when you have creativity and a tractor? The fireplace wall was a towering 20+ feet high, and our pulley system… well, let’s just say it could’ve used an upgrade. Cue the dramatic moment: the line snapped, and down came the wall with a crash that shook the ground! Good news? Nobody got hurt (except maybe the wall’s pride), and we figured out an awesome system to lift the other three walls with way less drama. Oh, and lucky me—I was in the perfect spot to catch it all on video. What a ride!
- [Road Trip!](https://www.robinanddan.com/road-trip/): During our travels, Dan and I have been so fortunate to meet some of the most amazing, fun, and helpful people. Every adventure seems to come with a dash of excitement because you never know what kind of common ground or synchronicity might come our way.
- [Pivoting vs Patience](https://www.robinanddan.com/pivoting-vs-patience/)
- [Our Homesteading Journey: Land Acquisition](https://www.robinanddan.com/our-homesteading-journey-land-acquisition/)
- [Community Snake (rock)](https://www.robinanddan.com/community-snake-rock/)
- [Ranch Build Update April 2024](https://www.robinanddan.com/ranch-build-update-april-2024/)
- [Ranch Update (March 2024) Insulation in process!](https://www.robinanddan.com/ranch-update-march-2024-insulation-in-process/)
- [Unearthing Treasures: Our Journey into Rockhounding and a Surprise Discovery](https://www.robinanddan.com/unearthing-treasures-our-journey-into-rockhounding-and-a-surprise-discovery-2/)
- [Ranch Update](https://www.robinanddan.com/ranch-update/)
- [February 2024 Ranch update](https://www.robinanddan.com/february-2024-ranch-update/)
- [Drone flight finally! View of the upper-homestead portion of the ranch](https://www.robinanddan.com/drone-flight-finally-view-of-the-upper-homestead-portion-of-the-ranch/)
- [Underground plumbing work with crazy wind!](https://www.robinanddan.com/underground-plumbing-work-with-crazy-wind/)
- [Off-grid Homestead almost weather tight! ](https://www.robinanddan.com/off-grid-homestead-almost-weather-tight/)
- [Intro coming soon!](https://www.robinanddan.com/intro-coming-soon/)
- [Tall Wall Tractor Pull with intro](https://www.robinanddan.com/tall-wall-tractor-pull-with-intro/)
- [Fencing process is now complete!](https://www.robinanddan.com/fencing-process-is-now-complete/)
- [Crane day! Beams and Trusses in the air.](https://www.robinanddan.com/crane-day-beams-and-trusses-in-the-air/)
- [Exciting Progress Update on Our Homesteading Journey!utilities](https://www.robinanddan.com/exciting-progress-update-on-our-homesteading-journey/)
- [Water Storage Tank is Picked Up!](https://www.robinanddan.com/water-storage-tank-is-picked-up/)
- [To the Store](https://www.robinanddan.com/to-the-store/)
- [Monsoon Season at the Ranch](https://www.robinanddan.com/monsoon-season-at-the-ranch/)
- [Field of Fairies: Day Dreaming Under the Trees](https://www.robinanddan.com/field-of-fairies-day-dreaming-under-the-trees/)
- [Harnessing Rain: Rainwater Catchment System on Your Shed](https://www.robinanddan.com/harnessing-rain-rainwater-catchment-system-on-your-shed/)
- [Harvesting Rain in the Arid Arizona Landscape: An Update on Our Rain Catchment Adventure](https://www.robinanddan.com/harvesting-rain-in-the-arid-arizona-landscape-an-update-on-our-rain-catchment-adventure/)
- [The Art of Companion Planting: Cultivating Harmony in Your Garden](https://www.robinanddan.com/the-art-of-companion-planting-cultivating-harmony-in-your-garden/)
- [Growing My Own ~](https://www.robinanddan.com/growing-my-own/)
- [What’s Your Story Morning Glory?](https://www.robinanddan.com/whats-your-story-morning-glory/)
- [My Evolving Road](https://www.robinanddan.com/my-evolving-road/)
- [Vertical Herb Garden (2020)](https://www.robinanddan.com/vertical-herb-garden-2020/)
- [Is Homeownership Still Considered Part of the American Dream?](https://www.robinanddan.com/is-homeownership-still-considered-part-of-the-american-dream/)
- [What it Means To Be in a Seller’s Market](https://www.robinanddan.com/what-it-means-to-be-in-a-sellers-market/)
- [3 Reasons We’re Definitely Not in a Housing Bubble](https://www.robinanddan.com/3-reasons-were-definitely-not-in-a-housing-bubble/)
- [Thinking about selling?](https://www.robinanddan.com/thinking-about-selling/)
- [Millennial Moves](https://www.robinanddan.com/millennial-moves/)
- [PREP YOUR PETS FOR THE BIG MOVE](https://www.robinanddan.com/prep-your-pets-for-the-big-move/)
- [TIPS FOR STORING WINE AT HOME](https://www.robinanddan.com/tips-for-storing-wine-at-home/)
- [HOMEBUYER TRAFFIC IS ON THE RISE](https://www.robinanddan.com/homebuyer-traffic-is-on-the-rise/)
- [GIVE YOUR DECK A FACELIFT!](https://www.robinanddan.com/give-your-deck-a-facelift/)
- [THINKING OF PURCHASING A HOME?](https://www.robinanddan.com/thinking-of-purchasing-a-home/)
- [CONSIDER THIS: WHEN TO REFINANCE](https://www.robinanddan.com/consider-this-when-to-refinance/)
- [EYE-CATCHING WAYS TO DECORATE WITH PLANTS](https://www.robinanddan.com/eye-catching-ways-to-decorate-with-plants/)
- [CREATE THE HOME OFFICE OF YOUR DREAMS](https://www.robinanddan.com/create-the-home-office-of-your-dreams/)
- [TURNING A BEDROOM FROM BORING INTO LUX](https://www.robinanddan.com/turning-a-bedroom-from-boring-into-lux/)
- [Office Space – the necessity, not the movie.](https://www.robinanddan.com/office-space-the-necessity-not-the-movie/)
- [What to Repair Before You List](https://www.robinanddan.com/what-to-repair-before-you-list/)
- [DIY Outdoor Herb Garden Wall](https://www.robinanddan.com/diy-outdoor-herb-garden-wall/)
- [Here for you~](https://www.robinanddan.com/here-for-you/)
- [Your fireplace gives you cozy comfort, show it some love~](https://www.robinanddan.com/your-fireplace-gives-you-cozy-comfort-show-it-some-love/)
- [Achieve the “Early Bird” status~](https://www.robinanddan.com/achieve-the-early-bird-status/)

## Pages
- [Suburban Roots](https://www.robinanddan.com/suburban-roots/)
- [Hospitality & Food](https://www.robinanddan.com/hospitality/)
- [Robin Restored](https://www.robinanddan.com/robin-restored/)
- [test](https://www.robinanddan.com/test/)
- [Contact Us](https://www.robinanddan.com/contact-us/)
- [Adventures in Homesteading and Hospitality](https://www.robinanddan.com/)
- [My account](https://www.robinanddan.com/my-account/): Login Username or email address *Required Password *Required Remember me Log in Lost your password?
- [Checkout](https://www.robinanddan.com/checkout/)
- [Cart](https://www.robinanddan.com/cart/): You may be interested in… Your cart is currently empty! New in store
- [Shop](https://www.robinanddan.com/shop/)
- [What’s New](https://www.robinanddan.com/whats-new/)
- [JDK Ranchette](https://www.robinanddan.com/jdk-ranchette/)
- [Our Story](https://www.robinanddan.com/our-story/)

## Products
- [Women’s Tank](https://www.robinanddan.com/shop/womens-racerback-tank/): This racerback tank is soft, lightweight, and form-fitting with a flattering cut and raw edge seams for an edgy touch.
- [Dano’s Hoodie](https://www.robinanddan.com/shop/unisex-eco-raglan-hoodie/): If there’s one fashion rule to live by, let it be that comfort doesn’t have to be compromised for the sake of style. Pair the super-soft unisex eco raglan hoodie with joggers for a relaxed look, or elevate the outfit with a skirt, oversized blazer, or classic trousers. The hoodie’s brushed inside ensures a comfy and snug feel, and will keep you warm during the colder days.