CONTENTS
6
COUNTRY JOURNAL
Year-end reflection on your homestead turns hard work into meaningful memories, guiding improvements, celebrations and strategic planning for next season.
8
POULTRY 101
Keep your flock safe this winter with practical tips to prevent frostbite and protect combs, wattles and toes.
12
THE SIMPLE LIFE
Choose gifts that last beyond the season, with practical, timeless treasures from cookware to games, treats and memory-making experiences.
15 RECIPE
Zesty orange, tart cranberries and decadent white chocolate drizzle make these buttery shortbread cookies a sparkling holiday treat for sharing or gifting.
16 HOMESTEAD
HABITAT
Support backyard birds through winter by providing high-energy foods, DIY feeders and safe observation opportunities for families.
19
STORM PREP 101
Winter storms won’ t wait. Stock home, barn and vehicle kits with heat, food, water and safety gear to stay warm, safe and prepared.
22
HOLIDAY ACREAGE TRADITIONS
Celebrate the holidays with locally sourced foods, sustainable trees and farm-based traditions that support communities and preserve agricultural heritage.
26 FEATURE
Skip store-bought this year: share handmade homestead gifts, from jams and crafts to local artisan treasures, full of thought and heart.
29
LAND & LIFESTYLE
Keep your property safe and accessible this winter with compact tractor tips for efficient, safe and hasslefree snow removal.
31 OUTSTANDING
IN THE FIELD
New equipment and attachments help acreage owners tackle rugged terrain, winter chores and year-round property management with ease.
32
SNOW COUNTRY
Learn how UTVs, compact tractors and pickup trucks can tackle snow, keeping your property safe and winter-ready.
34
SEASONAL ACRES
Discover who’ s sharing your land this winter while learning, observing and connecting with nature as a family.
36
HORSE SENSE
Small but mighty, Icelandic horses combine rugged strength, smooth gaits and striking beauty, captivating riders across the globe.
38RUSTIC LIVING
Battery-heated clothing and portable heaters make harsh winter work safer, warmer and surprisingly comfortable for long days outdoors.
40 PRODUCT
SHOWCASE
Celebrate the season on your acreage with bold reds, crisp whites and sparkling wines crafted for festive gatherings.
44 PRODUCT
SHOWCASE
From full-size haulers to midsize offroaders, these pickups deliver rugged power, modern tech and versatile performance for acreage living.
45CORN TIME
This month ' s toon shows that Santa isn ' t buying farmers ' excuses this year.
47
MY ACREAGE LIFE
A 10-acre Maine homestead blending rustic charm, productive berry fields, modern comforts and access to lakes, trails and four-season recreation.
Vol. 24 No. 12 December 2025
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