There’s an awakening happening…

Have you felt it?

A Vintage Revival

A freshly baked round loaf of bread sitting in a cast iron pot on a wooden surface.

In this age of rapid technology and convenience, many of us are feeling a longing for something simpler. We’re drawn to the timeless ways of living—a slower pace, a life built on hands-on work, and a deep sense of purpose.

With our quest for instant gratification, we’ve traded away the very things that once kept us grounded and connected. Fleeting, shallow substitutes have replaced the practices that have nurtured balance and fulfillment for generations.

Now, we have fast food and microwaved meals in place of homegrown, lovingly prepared food. Social media has taken the place of real community. Screens have replaced face-to-face connections, and automation has overshadowed the art of creation.

We’re overwhelmed, drained, and caught up in the chaos. Time slips away, and we’ve lost the space to breathe or think. We’ve forgotten how to live with purpose, to create with our own hands. Instead, we’ve been conditioned to react, consume, and watch others on Netflix and YouTube living the lives we dream of.

It’s no surprise that the idea of “going back to the farm” is gaining momentum. But for me, it’s not just about rustic décor or shiplap walls. It’s about something more profound—a call to live with intention truly. I’m here to challenge you to embrace this longing for a simpler life with open arms. It’s time for a shift.

Homesteading isn’t about a specific place—it’s a mindset. And while there are countless ways to homestead, we all share a common goal:
To return to our roots. To take pride in the work of our hands. To pour our energy into something we genuinely care about. To nourish our families with food that feeds both body and soul. To step away from the crowd and build the life of our dreams. And most importantly, to live fully—not just exist.

If that speaks to you, then you’re precisely where you need to be. Welcome home.

A close-up of freshly harvested turnips with soil still clinging to their roots, resting in a wooden basket alongside green leaves.
Quote by Joel Salatin on the importance of farms and food production, set against a background of blue sky and green grass.
A group of cattle of various breeds gathered near a trough in a lush, green pasture framed by trees under a clear sky.

Nice to Meet You

I’m Nichole—a city kid turned Illinois homesteader who helps families who are disenchanted by modern culture create a homegrown lifestyle of their own.

My parents and I live on a 100-acre heartland homestead with our three free-range children, Mesa, Bridger, and Sage, and an unknown number of farm animals (I’ve lost count).

Not only do I share recipes and encouragement here on the blog, but you can also find me hanging out over on my podcast and our YouTube channel, which provides a bit more candid view of our homestead life. You can read more about our homestead here.

Get my best-selling farmstyle cookbook, chock-full of simple, heritage recipes your whole family will love!

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Have you heard?

A close-up profile of a brown cow in a grassy field, with a soft sunset glow in the background.

In the weekly Homestead Toolbox Newsletter, you’ll find three to four bite-sized, actionable tips you can put to use immediately around your homestead that week. No fluff. No spam. No junk. It’s been getting rave reviews from the 100,000+ people who have signed up so far, but don’t take my word for it…

“Just wanted to let you know. My inbox is so full all the time — so I decided to unsubscribe from all newsletters… and I unsubscribed from The Prairie Homestead this morning — then — I went back and carefully read the letter — and immediately re-subscribed. It has SO MUCH good, useful info — I decided it IS worth keeping! Thanks for a great read.” –Rosemarie

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One More Thing…

Thanks for being here. No, I mean it. I don’t care if you’re been homesteading your whole life or are just dipping your toe in the water; I’m thrilled to have you following along. I pray this little corner of the Internet brings you much inspiration and joy as you follow your homestead journey.

Peace, Love, and Mason Jars,

Nichole Sheley