If you do anything at all creative with your hands, you need to understand an idea I call “the challenge of a thousand decisions”. From moment to creative moment we’re all faced with decisions – many of them small – […]
Continue ReadingLILAC LESSONS: Steve’s Lilacs Finally Flourish
Sometimes the smallest things in life can make a big difference. Steve’s 20+ year struggle with failing lilacs tells the story.
Continue ReadingHOW-TO STACK FIREWOOD: Round Piles Offer Big Advantages
UPDATED 17Aug2018: After more than 20 years of stacking firewood in square or linear piles, I discovered that stacking in round piles is not only easier and more stable, it’s also far more attractive. I’ve been doing it now for more than […]
Continue ReadingWINTERIZING WATER SYSTEMS: Simple System Is 100% Reliable
Got a seasonal water system to put away for the winter? Watch the video below to learn about a fast, fool-proof way to winterize pipes inside your place. It even works with washing machines, dishwashers and water dispensers. Perfect for […]
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Learn More from Bailey Line Road
RUSTIC, MAINTENANCE-FREE SIDING: A Close Look at One Option
When it comes to exterior siding for homes and cottages in rural locations, it’s not easy to find a durable option that works visually. For some of us at least, choices such as vinyl or aluminum siding simply look too […]
Continue ReadingRURAL LIFE SKILLS THAT MATTER: A Dozen Tips for Water Wells, Septic Systems, Electricity & Food
Water wells, septic systems, electricity supplies and food storage – these are four of the biggest things you need to deal with directly if you’re a hands-on person leading a hands-on rural life. And success is often based on specific […]
Continue ReadingTHE BAILEY LINE ROAD CHRONICLES: Chapter 11 – Tractor, Stones & Social Scenes
This is chapter 11 in my book The Bailey Line Road Chronicles, the 30-year story about moving from the city to live a modern homestead life deep in the country on Manitoulin Island, Canada. Missed Chapter 10? Click here to […]
Continue ReadingFROST SEEDING: See How to Plant in Winter and Why
Frost seeding is the practice of broadcasting certain kinds of seeds on frozen ground near the end of winter. It’s an effective way to improve the species makeup of pastures without plowing, discing and reseeding bare ground. Why bother? More […]
Continue ReadingGLOVES GALORE: Canadian Company Celebrates 100 Years of Great Gloves
I’ve used work gloves every week for more than 30 years, so I was surprised to find that it took me until late 2017 to discover the story of Canada’s largest, oldest and most interesting work glove company. In April […]
Continue ReadingWhat’s It Like to Move From City to Country?
The website you’re on now – BaileyLineRoad.com – is named after the little country road where my wife, Mary, and I live and are raising our kids. When people find out both Mary and I grew up in the city […]
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