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Barndominiums are all the Craze!

Homesteading, Parenting, & Bison!
Today in 5 minutes or less, you’ll learn:
What is a barndominium and why would a person live in one?
How to use the equation E+R=O to be a more calm parent
What type of fence do you need to keep bison in?
On the Farm

Inspiration for Our Barndo
Barndominiums are the new craze! Haven’t heard of a barndominium or “barndos” as they are commonly referred to?
Well a simple way to explain one is a barn-style building typically made from metal, steel, or wood that are used for residential purposes. Generally, barndominiums are large rectangular dwellings with open-living concepts, giving homeowners options for customizable floor plans.
We decided to build a barndominium on Silver Lake Bison Farm and couldn’t be more excited to move our family of seven in early this summer. We even have an in-law suite for Grandma and Papa!
Here are five benefits of building a barndominium to consider:
#1 Cost-Effective
Building a barndominium can be a cost-effective alternative to a traditional home. The cost of the building materials and labor is often lower than building a new home from scratch.
#2 Versatile
Barndominiums can be used for a variety of purposes, including as a home, workshop, storage space, or even a business. This versatility allows homeowners to adapt the space to their changing needs over time.
#3 Customizable
Barndominiums can be customized to meet the specific needs and preferences of the homeowner. This includes choosing the layout, materials, and finishes to create a unique and personalized living space.
#4 Low Maintenance
Because many barndominiums are constructed with metal framing and siding, they require less maintenance than traditional wood-framed homes. This can save homeowners time and money in the long run.
#5 Energy-Efficient
With proper insulation and ventilation, barndominiums can be energy-efficient and cost-effective to heat and cool. This can help homeowners save money on their energy bills over time.
Barndominiums are certainly not for everyone, but they are becoming more and more popular in the U.S. with their unique features and benefits.
Stay tuned to the newsletter to see pictures of our barndo on the farm!
Want to learn more? Check out this article by Barndominium Life…
Parenting
Being a mom or dad is the most challenging and yet rewarding job in the world. With four girls ages 3 to 7 you could say emotions often run high in our house!
Over the years we’ve adopted an equation from Tim Kight to help us and the kids respond as best possible to all these emotions…

We often cannot control the event that happens, but we can always control our response.
An example could be something their brother or sister did to irritate them, homework frustration, or not getting what they want.
OR maybe it’s us as parents, and we’re losing our minds trying to control our anger after a long day.
The better we are at being intentional with our response and controlling our R Factor the more positive the outcome will be for us.
This advice is extremely applicable and helpful to us as parents which is why we love it. I (Luke) have used this for years at work as well. There are so many applications.
If we’re honest it’s hard to keep our cool day after day with the chaos and ridiculous things our young children choose to do. Any way we can coach ourselves and them to treat each other more kindly the better result we will have.
It’s not easy, but the next time you want to blow a lid remember this equation and maybe it will help you respond just a little better and result in a better outcome for everyone. Give it a try!
Bison

Bison are large and powerful animals that require strong and sturdy fencing to keep them contained. A suitable fence for bison should be at least 5-6 feet tall and made of strong materials that can withstand the weight and force of these animals.
One of the most common types of fencing used for bison is high-tensile electric fencing, which consists of multiple strands of high-tensile wire spaced apart and electrified to deter the animals from attempting to cross it.
Another option is a woven wire fence, which consists of a series of tightly woven wires that form a mesh pattern, and is also effective at containing bison.
In addition to the type of fencing, the design and construction of the fence are also important considerations. The fence should be well-anchored and braced to withstand the weight and pressure of the animals, and should also be designed to prevent bison from digging under or pushing through it.
It is important to consult with experienced professionals in bison husbandry and fencing to determine the best type and design of fencing for your specific needs and circumstances. As I’ve learned already the answer “it depends” is far too common for my liking. But it’s proved to be true as each operation is it’s own.
Gain knowledge and education and then make the best decision you can and move forward! If you’re not failing you’re not learning.
Stay tuned to the newsletter to see what the final fencing looks like and what we choose! Maybe… just maybe… there’s a way to combine both woven wire and high-tensile. Hmmmm…. 🤔 😃
Meme of the Week

Product of the Week
Love bison 🦬 and love America 🇺🇸 ?
If so, you’ll love our hats! Now available in our shop.

Bison/American Flag Trucker Hat
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