It has been quite some time since my last post, and this one won’t be easy.  I had been sick for a couple of weeks before the holidays, so that was my excuse for not writing.  Things changed pretty rapidly after that, however, when my father passed away unexpectedly the day after Christmas.  I have never experienced a loss like this, and it’s hard to imagine that I will ever again.  My father was the most important and influential man in my life, and we were very close.  I have taken a month off from work to cope, and I quit my extra jobs.  In my grief I have been unable to do much for the last month, and working certainly was not high on my priorities.

I started this blog because I wanted to document our journey and experiences with creating and maintaining our homestead.  I wanted to be a source of information for other like-minded people who were interested in similar things.  I also wanted it to tell a story to our future children.  When I was deciding whether or not I would in fact create this blog, the one deciding thought that I had was the thought of our children reading back on the stories that we encountered.  I thought that would give some credence to the work and toil that we are about to undertake so that they can understand everything that we’ve gone through- and maybe learn something along the way. (more…)

photo of chainsaw on ground

Few things are more frustrating than attempting to start your trusty chainsaw, only to be met with a flooded engine that refuses to cooperate. A flooded chainsaw can be a major inconvenience, especially when you’re in the middle of a project or working against a tight deadline. However, fear not – with the right approach and a few simple steps, you can breathe new life into your flooded chainsaw and get back to work in no time.

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a man in green jacket wearing orange helmet

In the world of forestry, construction, and tree removal, efficiency and power are paramount. One tool that has revolutionized these industries is the hydraulic chainsaw. Unlike traditional gasoline-powered chainsaws, hydraulic chainsaws harness the incredible force of pressurized hydraulic fluid to deliver unparalleled cutting power and performance. In this article, we’ll explore the inner workings of these remarkable machines, shedding light on how they operate and why they’ve become an indispensable tool for professionals across various fields.

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modern gas chainsaw on ground near log

When it comes to chainsaws, the focus is often on the sharp chain and powerful engine. However, one crucial component that often goes unnoticed is the chainsaw clutch. This unsung hero plays a vital role in ensuring smooth and efficient operation, transferring power from the engine to the chain. In this comprehensive article, we’ll delve into the inner workings of the chainsaw clutch, exploring how it functions and why it’s an essential part of any well-designed chainsaw.

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lumberjack sawing birch branch

As a proud owner of a Husqvarna chainsaw, you know the importance of keeping your tool in top condition. A dull or damaged chain not only hinders your productivity but can also pose a safety risk. That’s why it’s crucial to replace your chainsaw’s chain regularly. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of Husqvarna chainsaw chain replacement, ensuring you can tackle any woodcutting task with confidence and efficiency.

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red and white stihl recoil engine

For professional arborists and homeowners alike, a malfunctioning chainsaw pull cord can be a significant impediment to productivity. This essential component, nestled within the recoil starter system, initiates engine ignition. When the pull cord fails, the once-potent chainsaw is rendered dormant. However, fret not! This comprehensive guide empowers you with the knowledge and steps necessary to diagnose and repair your chainsaw’s pull cord, ensuring a swift return to efficient operation.

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