Seeking a self sufficient way At my age, I wanted to be able to decide when to paint the house, mow the lawn, put up a fence, hang clothes outside on a few laundry lines, and where to park the car on my property. After all, no one else was helping pay the mortgage and taxes. The yard is the life and support system of the homestead. There are no unwanted weeds on the farm; all plants are on the menu of the poultry and livestock or used in the kitchen or compost piles. But a life with less stress and healthier food is the inspiration that drives most homesteaders. Happiness, discovery, satisfaction, relaxation and peacefulness, all weaved into countless memorable moments every single day, that's gardening Of course it wouldn't be a country homestead without an outside shower.