What are the unique techniques Natasha Nicholes employs in her homesteading practices?

Hi there! I’m Natasha Nicholes from Houseful of Nicholes.

Based on what I share on my site and socials, my “homesteading” is pretty city-specific and community-centered. A few things that make my approach a bit unique:

• Urban homesteading in Chicago – I’m a “city mouse with a country mouse desire,” so I grow food and practice homesteading skills right in a dense urban neighborhood instead of on acreage.
• Community-first gardening – Through our We Sow We Grow initiative, I focus on growing food not just for my family, but for our West Pullman community, teaching new gardeners and building local food access.
• Serial-hobbyist skill set – I fold in sewing, knitting, canning, preserving, baking, and building, so homesteading isn’t just gardening; it’s a whole “maker” lifestyle.
• Habitat for Humanity + homestead – We combined our homebuilding journey with starting a backyard garden, then expanding to multiple lots to serve neighbors.

Is there a particular area you’d like me to dive into more, like gardening, preserving, or community-building?