– Freedom Forest Farm – Where Nature Meets Freedom in Homesteading, Homemaking & Homeschooling
Oh where to start…
Welcome, I’m Jalena!
Home: steader | maker | schooler
Hey y’all. My friends call me Jo, so you can too. I’m a wife of 15 years (my husband & I met in jail) and mom to FOUR (3 of whom we adopted through foster care). I love Jesus, homesteading, blogging and so much more.
I’d love for you to get to know me through the parts of my life I share (or should I say overshare, because I’m totally guilty of that?!). I enjoy forming GENUINE connections with other women, so please say hi while you’re here!
get to know me!
we are proud to be homegrown by heroes certified, members of the farmer veteran coalition, and graduate of clemson’s scnbfp
The Latest Posts
How I Make Money from Home While Homesteading, Homemaking & Homeschooling
This is step-by-step how I make money from home while homesteading, homemaking and homeschooling full-time using Amazon Onsite Commissions!
Everything I’m Packing for My Son’s College Dorm Move-In Day… The Essentials + some…
Sending your student off to college for the first time? This ultimate college dorm packing checklist covers everything your freshman will need for dorm life—from dorm room organization and bedding to bathroom essentials, tech gear, and safety supplies. Whether you’re moving into a suite-style dorm or a traditional setup, this list is designed to help first-time college families pack smart, stay organized, and feel prepared for move-in day. Perfect for moms (and dads) navigating their first college drop-off!
Organize Your Homeschool Year with the 2025–2026 Fox & Forest Friends Planner Bundle
2025–2026 Fox & Forest Friends Homeschool Planner – Printable & Editable for Intentional Learning
If you’re a homeschooling mama juggling chores, farm life, and curriculum planning—this one’s for you.
How to Make Creamy Goat Milk Yogurt at Home (Instant Pot + Raw Milk Friendly)
Learn how to make thick, probiotic-rich yogurt from raw goat milk using just an Instant Pot. We walk through the exact steps we follow here on the homestead — plus ways to use leftover whey, and tips for thickening or flavoring your homemade yogurt.
The Best Heavy-Duty Hose Reel for Your Homestead (+ Use Code “free” for a Discount!)
Tired of battling your garden hose? This heavy-duty wall-mounted hose reel from Giraffe Tools made our homestead routine smoother — and you can get a discount with code “free”.
Echinacea: The Herbal Powerhouse Every Homestead Garden Needs
How to Grow, Harvest, and Use Purple Coneflower for Herbal Remedies on your Homestead
Why South Carolina is the Perfect State for Homesteading
Discover why South Carolina’s climate, abundant resources, and welcoming community make it the perfect place for homesteading!
Freedom Forest Farm Was Included in a Redfin Article!
Discover our favorite all-natural method for cleaning your washing machine—featured in a recent Redfin article! Perfect for homesteaders, homemakers and anyone looking to ditch harsh chemicals.
Spring on the Homestead: Preparing for a Season of Growth
March is a crucial month for homesteaders! Prep garden beds, start seeds, care for livestock, and tackle spring maintenance for a productive season.
Wanna win cool homestead items? Each month, I will be drawing a random subscriber to receive the gift of the month.
Enter my Monthly Giveaway.
Mastering the Art of Sourdough Starter: Your Comprehensive Companion DIGITAL E-BOOK with Printable Recipes, Journal Pages + More
Elevate your sourdough baking with our ‘Sourdough Mastery Guide: Your Ultimate Companion.’ Discover the secrets, troubleshoot like a pro, and explore delightful recipes. Download, print, and embrace sourdough excellence!