I’ve started and stopped this post so many times. This time, I’m going to finish it.
Many have noticed that the subscription option is missing from the Homesteader part of this website. I removed it a while ago, to make sure no one was ordering something they weren’t going to receive.
That’s because, well, there’s no other way to say it: after ten years, I’ve decided to cease publication of the Homesteader.
Nothing bad has happened. The world of Laura is alive, well, and thriving. But times have changed, and so has my personal life. A regular print publication requires more time than I am able to give, and I won’t put out a shoddy product. (Subscribers know that they have not received Issue 20 yet. Which is the winter issue. It is now spring. Perhaps you can see the problem.)
I am not leaving anyone high and dry. Facebook is rife with pictures of all the homesites. Sarah Sue Uthoff’s radio show provides interviews with homesite representatives. There’s this blog, and the LIWLRA, and LauraPalooza, not to mention so many other blogs — all able in some way to let you get your Laura fix.
It will be a smooth ending. I am still producing issue 20, and then this summer’s issue, which is 21, will be the last. Because I stopped accepting new subscriptions and renewals a while ago, the vast majority of subscribers will receive all the issues they paid for. Those who do not will receive refunds. Or, if they wish, they will have the option to negotiate an alternate purchase; while I am saying goodbye to the Homesteader in its current form, back issues will always be available.
Plus, I am by no means done writing about Laura. Stay tuned.
A more detailed explanation on the hows and whys behind my decision can be found in Issue 20 ,which will be shipping within the next few weeks. Ideally before summer. 🙂
Comments20
I understand, but sad news just the same. I was always excited when the Homesteader arrived and I would wait till my day’s work was done so I could read and enjoy. I’ll miss it.
Nothing is certain but change, and you have done a wonderful job with the Homesteader, Sandra. Feel proud. No regrets.
If there was a ‘like’ button on here I would use it for what Laura and Judy said. I came very late to the joys of the Homesteader – thank you, Sandra, and I will be taking consolation in those back-issues I saved to help me learn self-denial. (Wisdom thy name is Ma.)
I just subscribed last year after debating for awhile (how much Laura stuff do I really need?) I may have to order some back issues…..
The Homesteader has provided interesting articles and has helped many people learn more about Laura Ingalls Wilder and the Little House “realm”. It has always been a pleasure to read. Thank you Sandra for your dedicated work in putting it all together. I’m glad to hear that back issues will continue to be available; between moves and kids I have surely missed a few.
I agree with Laura and Judy’s comments above. Always a fine newletter that I looked forward to getting in the mail. Will miss it loads, but understand life changes. Thanks for all the great work.
Congratulations on your long run, and an impressive, valuable writing and publishing project you should be proud of forever!
Keep pioneering. I know you’ll find a way.
Here’s to new and exciting challenges ahead, Sandra. Congratulations on a stirling run for the Homesteader and I look forward to hearing more about your plans.
Perhaps I will try and savor each story in the final editions of the Homesteader in the same manner as Laura did with the Youth’s Companion!
I’ve enjoyed receiving my copies, they always reminded me of my 2007 trip to Mansfield. It is through the Homesteader that I heard about new books regarding Laura and being in Australia we don’t get to see them in the local shops! Thank you for all the work you have put in.
Booo…. 🙁 I am so sorry to hear that The Homesteader will no longer be published,but I am looking forward to my last two issues.
I appreciate your comments so much. People write me every once in a while, but it’s too easy to forget the impact your projects might have on others when you are working in a vacuum (or between soccer practices and diaper changes). Thank you for taking the time to comment. It really means a lot.
Are there many back issues available?
I’m sorry to hear that. I always enjoyed The Homesteader so much. I guess if we can’t renew anymore, we can get the last 2 issues as back issues? I look forward to hearing when they will be available.
Yes, there are currently 19 back issues available, as well as one special issue, LauraPalooza 2010. Regular issues are $5.50; LP is $7. All prices include shipping and tax.
Wow, I guess I need to catch up on my website reading, I’m so far behind I just read your post: I’ll miss The Homesteader. I liked the real piece of paper in my hand to read – especially the really wonderful writers you had contribute to The Homesteader. Thank you so much for all your time and effort in producing such a fine piece for a decade.
Donwe order the back issues or are they online? I’m so mad at myself never subscribing. Is it possible to order the last two issues?
I would like to order the last two issues of “The Homesteader” as well. I am sorry that it is coming to an end. Please let me know where to send the $$. Thanks!:)
I’m way behind the times as well. Just happened on this today. Had a lot going on in my personal life as well so I’ve not spent as much time on BLH or Facebook.
Sandra, I totally understand. I always marveled at how you could manage it all in the first place. I will proudly maintain my Homesteader collection as a part of my LIW libraray. Thanks for 10 years.
I’m very late to the game, I’m aware, but are there any back issues left to be ordered? Thanks 🙂
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