drudgery...

Owning a homestead is not an easy thing. There is constant work and upkeep. The notion of be prepared is foremost. A well stocked pantry is important. But just as important is a well stocked tool and supply closet. Along with hand tools and the usual nuts and bolts an array of plumbing parts, electrical parts, etc should be stocked and kept up to date. For instance I have a water heater that occasionally the plastic connectors spring a leak. Rather than have water running or turning the water off I have come prepared to keep a few extra around in the supply closet along with some extra Pex pie and other couplings. This saves downtime.
I also have become prudent in cleaning the furnace filter and the mechanism about once a month during the winter in order that we ensure heat when in winter. Besides the woodstove and assorted candles I am prepared for just about anything t.hat historically will go wrong.