Frugal Living

Howdy, I’m Melissa!

I’m so glad you’re here. This is the place for all of us who loved Little House when we were young and thought Laura was our best friend. It’s where we grow dinner in the backyard and think everything looks and tastes better when it comes from a Mason jar. Here, you’ll find my favorite from-scratch recipes, herbal remedies and tutorials, and all my gardening tips from my 20+ years of growing and raising our own food.

More About Melissa

My Most Popular Posts

How to Make a Sourdough Starter + Tips for Success

Soft Sourdough Sandwich Bread (Beginner Friendly Recipe)

Homemade Pop Tarts From Scratch (Hand Pies)

Easy Oven Roasted Chicken Recipe (Crispy & Juicy)

Strawberry Rhubarb Dump Cake without Jello & Homemade Cake Mix

Bacon Wrapped Asparagus (Easy Appetizer or Side Dish)

Easy Homemade Graham Crackers

Plated by Season: Home‑Cooked. Home‑Grown. On Your Table in 30 Minutes or Less.

75+ seasonal, from‑scratch recipes + a monthly harvest chart. Real meals. Minimal fuss.

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Spring Preserving Recipes

Pickled Asparagus Recipe (Canned, Quick, or Refrigerator)

Strawberry Jam Recipe without Pectin and Low Sugar

How to Store Lemons (For a Year!) – Fermented Lemons

Quick & Easy Fermented Pickles Recipe

How to Preserve Strawberries: Keep Those Berries Fresh!