As I've delved into the blogging world over the last couple of weeks, one of the sites I read regularly is the Walden Effect, by Anna and Mark Hess. In addition to regular blog updates about life on their homestead in Virginia, Anna writes a monthly ebook called the Weekend Homesteader. I got my hands on a copy of the November edition and found some very useful information. Anna has articles about garden rotation, storing water, how to cook a whole chicken, and the one I found most thought-provoking, diversifying your income.
Anna and Mark make their living selling a poop-free chicken waterer that Mark invented called the Avian Aqua Miser.
I've always been an entrepreneurial sort, but as Anna points out, you have to be careful that your brilliant idea doesn't end up being just a hobby if it only pays you mere pennies per hour for your time. Anna and Mark have sold eggs, honey and grapes off their farm, and ended up making less than minimum wage for their effort.
There are two things that Anna says has made the chicken waterer business a success: selling a niche product and cheap internet marketing to an international audience.
Both of those principles are food for thought for me. I have a side business right now selling refurbished laptops on Amazon. I am taking advantage of the second principle, but my product is not very niche - I have a lot of competition.
You can get your copy of the Weekend Homesteader for only 99 cents on Amazon.com, or check the Walden Effect, as Anna posts many of the articles throughout the month.
Thanks for visiting!
John
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