-
I Welcome You
My name is Tonya, and I am the creator of Fresh from the Homestead. As a wife, mother of four, and proud grandmother, I am passionate about embracing a simpler, more natural way of living. I have made the intentional choice to eliminate artificial dyes from my family’s life, relying instead on locally sourced and organic ingredients for both our meals and household products.
Join me as I learn more on this journey toward a cleaner, more wholesome lifestyle—one step at a time. I am excited to share my favorite tips and tricks for homemaking, cooking, baking, gardening, and the recipes my family loves, as well as the thoughtfully chosen products I’ve discovered along the way. Nestled in a tiny town on my cozy homestead, I dream of one day expanding to the countryside, growing my homestead, and continuing this rewarding way of life when the time is right.
4 min read
Recipes for the Whole Family
Experience an exquisite collection of recipes designed to minimize the artificial additives and dyes commonly found in store-bought foods. Savor a delectable array of both traditional and modern dishes, thoughtfully crafted with fresh, organic, and non-GMO ingredients. My recipes cater to everyone, featuring accessible ingredients that fit seamlessly into everyday life. Whether you’re preparing wholesome meals for breakfast, lunch, or dinner—or creating special treats for the kids—you’ll find something delicious and nourishing for every occasion.



Restoring and Adapting to Life in This 1800s Home
I am the proud owner of a charming 1880s home nestled in a small town in Wisconsin. For the past 23 years, I have dedicated myself to DIY projects both on my home and on items for my home, transforming this historic house into a place that truly feels like home. Though far from perfect and likely a lifelong labor of love, it is mine—and I cherish every inch of it.
Join me as I share tips, tricks, repairs, and remodeling projects, embracing the challenges and joys of restoring an old home. Together, we’ll learn, adapt, and breathe new life into history—one project at a time.

Gardens Galore
Allow me to share some expert gardening tips and techniques with you. From the process of starting seeds to cultivating my favorite fruits and vegetables, as well as effective methods for keeping pests at bay, I can guide you every step of the way.
Homesteading
Discover the rewarding journey of homesteading with step-by-step guides to a variety of self-sufficiency projects. From raising backyard chickens and cultivating a thriving worm farm to tapping trees for fresh, homemade syrup, I share practical knowledge and hands-on techniques to help you embrace a more sustainable lifestyle.
Whether you’re looking to grow your own food, preserve the harvest, craft natural household products, or learn traditional skills, my goal is to provide you with the tools and inspiration needed to create a more self-reliant and fulfilling homestead—no matter where you live.


Let’s Explore
I have a deep love for travel and the unforgettable experiences it brings. Whether it’s an adventure to a distant destination or a charming ice cream shop just an hour away, every place holds a special story. Some destinations leave a lasting impression, not just for their beauty, but for the memories they create.
Join me as I share my favorite travel spots, from hidden gems to well-loved destinations. Whether near or far, each place has something unique to offer, and I can’t wait to take you along on the journey.
I Love This!
I’m always on the lookout for tools and gadgets that make my projects more efficient and enjoyable. The right tools can turn a challenging task into a seamless experience, and I love discovering new finds that simplify everything from DIY home projects to cooking, baking, and gardening.
Amazon has been a treasure trove of helpful products, and I’m excited to share some of my favorite discoveries with you—items I use frequently and truly rely on. Whether it’s a game-changing kitchen tool, a must-have gardening essential, or a DIY lifesaver, these finds have made a real difference in my daily life, and I hope they do the same for you! Along the way, I’ll provide honest reviews, sharing both the pros and cons, so you can make informed decisions before adding them to your own collection.



Household
I am committed to creating a healthier, more sustainable home by eliminating harmful chemicals and plastics from everyday household items. As I make these changes in my own life, I will share valuable insights on upgrading common household products to safer, eco-friendly alternatives. Additionally, I’ll guide you through DIY solutions for making essential items at home, reducing exposure to toxins that can be absorbed through the skin and body. By embracing a chemical- and plastic-free lifestyle, we can create a safer, more natural environment for ourselves and our families—one mindful choice at a time.
Apothecary: For the Body & Soul
I believe that what we use on and in our bodies has a profound impact on our overall health. Many conventional products, such as soaps, shampoos, and medicines, contain harmful chemicals that can cause long-term damage. Switching to natural, homemade alternatives can not only be gentler on our skin but also help avoid unnecessary exposure to toxins.
These recipes are not only natural, but they also make great DIY projects to try at home. They allow you to take control of what goes on/in your body, ensuring that you are using ingredients that are safe, effective, and free from harmful chemicals. Plus, they can be customized to suit your preferences with different essential oils or herbs. If you decide to give these a try, let me know how they worked for you! Happy crafting and self-care!
