Cozy coffee chats with Melissa — a Michigan homebody who disappears to a 10-acre up-north cabin every chance she gets.
This podcast is part personal journal, part cozy cabin life—no advice, no pressure, just honest reflection.
One minute I’m making jewelry at the kitchen table while the German Shepherd snores, the next I’m dodging mosquitoes and chasing cardinals in the quiet woods.
Expect soft humor, zero pretense, and whatever I’m obsessing over this week:
🌲 cabin chaos & bonfire nights
🐦 birds at both feeders (suburban and wilderness)
🎨 new jewelry drops
📺 binge-watch confessions
☕ the little moments that actually matter
If you like your podcasts like your coffee — warm, real, and just a little messy — grab a mug and come sit with me.
New episodes weekly.
Our Homestead in the Mitten Links:
https://linktr.ee/homesteadinthemitten (https://linktr.ee/homesteadinthemitten)
Unexpected Life: Why I Started Blogging, Podcasting & YouTube
In this episode of Unexpected Life, I talk honestly about how different life turned out from what I imagined back in high school.
I open up about struggling with motivation, bouncing between short-term jobs, never really finding a career path that felt right, and feeling lost while trying to figure out where I belong in adulthood.
But this episode is also about trying something new.
I share why I decided to step outside the traditional path and start blogging, podcasting, and creating YouTube videos — even while battling self-doubt and uncertainty. Sometimes creativity becomes the thing that helps you reconnect with yourself when nothing else seems to fit.
If you’ve ever questioned your direction in life, struggled to stay motivated, or felt like you’re reinventing yourself later than everyone else, this episode will probably feel very relatable.
Thank you for listening. Don't forget to like, share, and follow!!
10 Feb 2026
Nancy Guthrie Case: Zero Evidence, Water Overflow Searches & Why We're Kept in the Dark
We dig into why the Nancy Guthrie disappearance feels so strange; no public evidence, no suspects, no footage, no proof-of-life.
The police call it a septic tank search, but it looks more like a water overflow; why the mix-up? Savannah Guthrie's asking for help, but with zero details, what are we even looking for?
Breaking down the lack of info and what it might mean.
Our Links:
Homestead in the Mitten:
https://linktr.ee/homesteadinthemitten
Sunset Artisan Jewelry:
https://linktr.ee/sunsetjewelryartisans
5 Feb 2026
Coconut Oil Nasal Fix: Ditch the Afrin Trap
Tried a TikTok remedy with coconut oil, baking soda, and honey to beat congestion; worked okay, plus warning on overusing nasal sprays like Afrin. Quick sick-day wins!
Our Links:
Homestead in the Mitten:
https://linktr.ee/homesteadinthemitten
Sunset Artisan Jewelry:
https://linktr.ee/sunsetjewelryartisans
4 Feb 2026
How a 12-Inch Memory Foam Wedge Pillow Fixed My Acid Reflux
After a week and a half of feeling awful; stuffy nose, sore throat, the works, I tried alcohol-free cold medicine… and boom, reflux kicked in harder than ever. Enter: a 12-inch memory foam wedge pillow from Amazon. Last night was my first real night of decent sleep in forever. If you're dealing with nighttime heartburn or just want to prop up without the drama, this might be your fix. Honest review, no fluff.
Our Links:
Homestead in the Mitten:
https://linktr.ee/homesteadinthemitten
Sunset Artisan Jewelry:
https://linktr.ee/sunsetjewelryartisans
29 Jan 2026
Thermal Door Curtain Fail: Trapped Inside During Michigan's -17°F Arctic Blast!
In this episode, I share my latest home hack gone wrong: buying a thermal door curtain from Amazon to battle the freezing Michigan winter... only to discover it completely blocks easy door access! Now we're stuck entering and exiting through the garage while temps plummet to -17°F with heavy snow and dangerous wind chills.
I've been under the weather this week (hence no Tuesday episode—sorry!), so I've been sharing cozy throwback videos from up north on social media instead. Join me as I vent about this epic fail, reflect on surviving the cold snap, and maybe brainstorm better ways to insulate without turning your front door into a permanent barrier.
Perfect for anyone dealing with winter woes, impulse Amazon buys, or just needing a laugh during the deep freeze. Stay warm out there, Michigan!
Our Links:
Homestead in the Mitten:
https://linktr.ee/homesteadinthemitten
Sunset Artisan Jewelry:
https://linktr.ee/sunsetjewelryartisans
22 Jan 2026
Winter Feeder Frenzy: Feisty Cardinals, Patient Chickadees, and Peanut Patrol
Join me for a peaceful yet lively update straight from my snowy backyard in Michigan! This week brought dramatic hawk flyovers right in front of the house, while seven cheeky squirrels feasted on peanuts out back; I kept a watchful eye to make sure no one became lunch.
More snow (around 4 inches) fell today, wiping out the feeders overnight as the birds polished off yesterday's seeds. Tomorrow I'll bundle up and refill them for my loyal morning crew: the returning Red-Breasted Nuthatch, ever-patient Black-capped Chickadees waiting at dawn, and the Red-Bellied Woodpecker "brrr-ing" from the trees for his peanuts. The cold snap has everyone extra hungry and active at the feeders.
But the real stars? Those vibrant Northern Cardinals; they've been extra spicy this week, full of attitude and chasing sparrows away like they own the place!
If you love quiet nature moments, backyard birdwatching, or just cozy winter wildlife tales, this short, heartwarming episode is for you. Grab a warm drink, listen in, and picture the snow-dusted feeders yourself.
Our Links:
Homestead in the Mitten:
https://linktr.ee/homesteadinthemitten
Sunset Artisan Jewelry:
https://linktr.ee/sunsetjewelryartisans
15 Jan 2026
Team Summer or Team Winter? Why I Pick Michigan's Colorful, Chill Summer Birds
Join me as I debate which season of birds I like best. Summer birds that are calm and colorful or winter birds with their sass and dull colors?
I also discuss the gear I use to get the shots I want. Bird feeder camera, cellphone, camera. What equipment do you use?
Our Links:
Homestead in the Mitten:
https://linktr.ee/homesteadinthemitten
Sunset Artisan Jewelry:
https://linktr.ee/sunsetjewelryartisans
13 Jan 2026
Cardinal Standing His Ground – House Sparrows Causing Chaos at the Feeder
Hey everyone, so today I had to record this because the drama at my bird feeder was next-level! There's this gorgeous male Northern Cardinal—he's all bright red and super territorial—and he was NOT having it with the House Sparrows today. Those little brown bullies kept swarming in, trying to hog all the seeds, and he just kept charging at them, flaring his crest, chasing them off like "this is MY spot!" It was like watching a tiny red superhero defend his turf.
I sat there for way too long just watching the back-and-forth.
Grab your coffee and come hang out at the feeder with me!
Our Links:
Homestead in the Mitten:
https://linktr.ee/homesteadinthemitten
Sunset Artisan Jewelry:
https://linktr.ee/sunsetjewelryartisans
8 Jan 2026
Ditch the Chaos: Simple, Stress-Free Organizing for Your Homestead Life
Feeling overwhelmed by a messy workspace, endless clutter, or that constant state of urgency on your homestead?
In this episode of Homestead in the Mitten, we dive into practical, low-pressure ways to bring order to your home without the overload. Learn how to clean small spots gradually (over several days, not all at once!), repurpose everyday items like old jars, plastic containers, and pill bottles, and the freedom of letting go of what you don't need. Plus, tips like listening to music while you tidy to make it enjoyable.
If you're stuck in chaos and nothing's getting done, this one's for you—realistic homestead organizing that sticks!
Join Our Links - Let’s Connect!⬇️
Homestead in the Mitten Links:
https://linktr.ee/homesteadinthemitten (https://linktr.ee/homesteadinthemitten)
Our Handmade Jewelry:
https://linktr.ee/sunsetjewelryartisans (https://linktr.ee/sunsetjewelryartisans)
6 Jan 2026
A Simple Kitchen Glow-Up: Rechargeable Sensor Lights for Cozy Nights
In this quick episode of Homestead in the Mitten, we share a budget-friendly home upgrade that's perfect for our slow-living lifestyle in Michigan. Discover how easy it is to install rechargeable motion-sensor under-cabinet lights – no drilling, no tools, just magnetic magic! For under $30 total, these wireless lights provide soft, adjustable glow that lasts weeks on a charge, making late-night kitchen visits peaceful and cozy without harsh overheads.
We're loving this simple addition so much that we're planning to add them to our up-north property too. Tune in for the details, plus a heads-up on our YouTube video dropping this Friday at 8 AM EST with the full install and reveal.
If you're looking for low-effort ways to make your homestead more functional and inviting, this one's for you!
1 Jan 2026
New Year, New Focus: My 2026 Goals on This New Year’s Day
Happy New Year! On this Thursday, January 1, 2026, I’m kicking off the year by sharing my biggest goals:
getting comfortable on camera
diving into up-north adventures like rock hounding and bird watching
and bringing real consistency to Sunset ArtisanJewelry and Homestead in the Mitten.
It’s all run by just me—no team, scattered thoughts, and a lot of learning. If you’re a solo creator ready to level up in 2026, let’s start the year together.
Our Links:
Blog - www.homesteadinthemitten.com (http://www.homesteadinthemitten.com)
Shop:
www.sunsetartisanjewelry.com (http://www.sunsetartisanjewelry.com)
30 Dec 2025
Balancing Two Homes: The Pull of Up North and the Reality of Building a Dream
In this heartfelt episode, I open up about the emotional tug-of-war between our suburban Michigan home and our seasonal vacation property up north—a quiet, pine-scented escape that feels more like home every visit. I share the dream of one day moving there full-time, the slower pace of bird watching, crafting jewelry for Sunset Artisan Jewelry, and small home projects… and the very real hurdle my husband has set: the businesses need to be successful first.
Right now, they’re not lifting off. I have the websites, the social media, the handmade polymer clay earrings and silicone bead keychains I’m proud of—but if no one’s buying, is it really a business, or just a beloved hobby?
If you’ve ever felt stuck in the in-between—loving where you are but longing for somewhere else, building a side dream while life keeps you grounded—this one’s for you. Let’s talk persistence, joy in the process, and finding beauty in both homes
Our Links:
Blog - www.homesteadinthemitten.com (http://www.homesteadinthemitten.com)
Shop - www.sunsetartisanjewelry.com (http://www.sunsetartisanjewelry.com)
25 Dec 2025
A Quiet Christmas Morning At Home
Merry Christmas, everyone. This episode is just a soft little visit with you on Christmas morning—right here in our Metro Detroit home, with no snow outside, a few gifts for our grown boys, and nothing fancy under the tree for my husband and me.
It’s been a tight year financially, but sitting here in the glow of the lights, listening to the quiet before everyone wakes up, I’m just so grateful we’re all together and healthy.
Sometimes the simplest Christmases are the ones that fill your heart the most.
Our Links:
Blog - www.homesteadinthemitten.com (http://www.homesteadinthemitten.com)
Shop:
www.sunsetartisanjewelry.com (http://www.sunsetartisanjewelry.com)
23 Dec 2025
Why Spending Time Up North Always Gives Me Peace
In this episode I’m opening up about something that’s been on my heart lately; Why spending time on our little piece of land up north always brings me such deep peace.
It’s not about big adventures or getting everything done on the property. It’s the quiet walks, the wind in the trees, the way the world slows down, and how I always drive home feeling lighter, steadier, more like myself.
If you’ve ever had a place that just settles your soul, I think you’ll understand. Come sit with me for a little while.
Our Links:
Blog - www.homesteadinthemitten.com
Shop:
www.sunsetartisanjewelry.com
18 Dec 2025
When Your Mind Won’t Quiet and Life Feels Loud
Lately, life has felt loud—especially in my head.
In this episode, I talk honestly about overwhelm, racing thoughts, and the cycle of overthinking that can keep us stuck. From lying awake at night with a noisy mind to walking away from goals out of fear of failing, this is a quiet conversation about noticing the pattern and learning to create space for calm.
This isn’t about pushing harder or having it all figured out. It’s about slowing down, finding structure, and taking one small step when the noise feels overwhelming.
Our Links:
Blog - www.homesteadinthemitten.com (http://www.homesteadinthemitten.com)
Shop:
www.sunsetartisanjewelry.com (http://www.sunsetartisanjewelry.com)
16 Dec 2025
When Squirrels Aren’t Enough: How I Became a Birdwatcher at 45
I used to be obsessed with squirrels… until forty-five hit and suddenly I’m a birdwatcher. In this episode, I unravel how that happened, why it seems universal, and what this says about midlife hobbies. If you relate, welcome—you’re in good company.
Our Links:
Blog - www.homesteadinthemitten.com (http://www.homesteadinthemitten.com)
Shop:
www.sunsetartisanjewelry.com (http://www.sunsetartisanjewelry.com)
12 Dec 2025
He Said “I Can Fix It” – The Day I Bought 10 Acres I’d Never Seen
We’d been hunting for up-north property forever. One popped up, I couldn’t go see it, so my husband drove up alone.
He called me from the middle of a garbage laden, bug infested-trailer disaster and said, “It’s rough… but I can fix it.”
I thought he’d lost his marbles, but we’d already lost too many good ones, so I told him to make the offer.
Fast-forward through years of dumpsters, sweat, and a million trips to Menards… and that same dump is now the quiet, cozy 10-acre getaway our whole family lives for.
Grab your mug and come laugh with me at the blind-trust purchase that somehow became our favorite place on earth.
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