Embracing the Art of Slow Living:
An Interview with Audra from Life at the Nest
I’m thrilled to share my conversation with Audra from Life at the Nest with you. Audra’s journey from teaching to creating a homestead filled with DIY projects, homegrown food, and timeless traditions is truly inspiring. In this interview, she shares her experiences, the importance of setting the table with intention, and her favorite foods to grow in the garden. Join us as we dive into the art of slow living and how these practices can bring more joy and connection into our daily lives.
Interview with Audra from Life at the Nest
Cynthia: Hi Audra, it’s so nice to see you. Thanks for coming here and agreeing to chat with me today. Your career journey, combining gardening, food, and home life, really resonates deeply with me. Could you share how you transitioned from teaching to creating Life at the Nest and what inspired this journey?
Audra: Well, I’ll start with college. I imagined a work-life balance as a teacher, but when we had our first baby, I realized I couldn’t let go and put my child in daycare. We decided as a couple to become a single-income family, which meant embracing a DIY lifestyle to live frugally. Growing, canning, and cooking from scratch became essential, especially when our eldest son developed a complex immune disease. This push back to my roots laid the foundation for Life at the Nest.
Cynthia: I was struck by a video where you talked about the importance of setting the table. It inspired me to dig out my family linens. Can you share why setting the table holds such significance for you?
Audra: That tradition comes from my mother-in-law. She used a tablecloth and linen napkins daily, making mealtime special. It slows things down and brings the family together. Dining together is as much about connection as it is about calories. It’s a way to honor family and create meaningful moments.
Cynthia: Your way of life seems to resonate with a cultural desire for mindfulness, embracing nature, and reviving traditional practices. How do you think incorporating these practices benefits our daily lives?
Audra: I’m thrilled to see a shift towards slowing down and connecting. Social media has ironically brought people back to their roots, seeking knowledge on cooking, home care, and frugality. Teaching workshops on these subjects connects people to their heritage and fosters a sense of community.
Cynthia: What is your favorite food to grow and why?
Audra: Tomatoes and strawberries are my favorites. You can’t find store-bought ones that taste like homegrown. Growing these transports me back to my childhood and the joyful, communal experience of working in the garden with family.
Cynthia: How about flowers—do you have a favorite and why?
Audra: Choosing a favorite flower is like choosing a favorite child, but I love zinnias, sunflowers, peonies, and hydrangeas. They bring vibrant color and joy, and they have a long-lasting beauty that brightens any space.
Cynthia: For someone just starting on their journey towards self-sufficiency and homesteading, what one piece of advice or physical tool would you recommend?
Audra: Start small to avoid overwhelm. My favorite garden tool is the Hori Hori knife. It’s versatile for digging, weeding, and planting. In the kitchen, I love OXO kitchen scissors—they’re incredibly handy for various tasks.
Cynthia: Can you share the story about the hen that inspired your logo?
Audra: Bella, a Buff Orpington chicken, survived a fox attack that killed most of our flock. We stitched her up and she went on to mother a new batch of chicks, symbolizing resilience and the spirit of rebuilding after adversity. She embodies what Life at the Nest stands for.
Cynthia: Where can people find and connect with you?
Audra: You can follow me on YouTube, TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, and visit my blog on Life at the Nest. I share stories, tutorials, and tips on self-sufficiency and homesteading.