Off Grid Living, Restoring Land, and Transforming Conventional Farms To Regenerative Farms: Guest Eddy Garcia

On Today’s Podcast Episode, Harold has a conversation with Eddy Garcia of Living Earth Systems about his journey into off-grid living and regenerative agriculture. We also dive into methods for transforming a conventional farm into a profitable and productive regenerative farm quickly. The Modern Homesteading Podcast, Episode 205 – June 1, 2023 Listen To The…

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June 1, 2023

Product Reviews

Oligei Plastic Plant Support Clips: My Favorite Clips For Growing Vertically

Whether you're a novice or a seasoned green thumb, the right gardening tools can make a world of difference in your experience. With the myriad of products available, it can be challenging to identify the best resources that can help your plants thrive. The Oligei Plastic Plant Support Clips have been marketed as an essential…

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May 25, 2023

Blog - Homesteading, Permaculture, Gardening

What Livestock Can You Raise On An Urban or Suburban Homestead?

Urban homesteading is a movement on the rise, with many city-dwelling individuals and families eager to adopt more sustainable, self-sufficient lifestyles. This interest often extends to raising livestock. However, there are several challenges and considerations to keep in mind, from legal regulations to space limitations. So what livestock, if any, can you raise on an…

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May 25, 2023

Blog - Homesteading, Permaculture, Gardening

Urban and Suburban Homesteading: It’s Popular But Is It Worth It?

In a rapidly urbanizing world, many are seeking to reclaim control over their lives through the practice of urban and suburban homesteading. Despite potential challenges such as limited space and complex regulations, this way of life has numerous merits, demonstrating that it is indeed worth the effort. What is Urban and Suburban Homesteading? At its…

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May 23, 2023

The Modern Homesteading Podcast

Garden Is Planted, Now What? Weeding, Watering, and Watching

On Today’s Podcast Episode, Harold and Rachel Discuss What To Do After The Garden Is Planted; Such As Weeding, Watering, and Watching For Things Like Nutrient Deficiencies, Insect Pressure, and Disease Issues. The Modern Homesteading Podcast, Episode 203 – May 23, 2023 Listen To The Podcast Nurturing Your Garden: Post-Planting Care and Maintenance In this…

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May 23, 2023

Blog - Homesteading, Permaculture, Gardening

Modern Homesteading vs. Traditional Homesteading: Understanding the Differences

Homesteading, the practice of self-sufficiency and living off the land, has experienced a resurgence in recent years. As people seek a simpler and more sustainable lifestyle, they often come across two terms: modern homesteading and traditional homesteading. While both approaches share a common goal of reducing reliance on external systems, they differ in various aspects.…

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May 16, 2023

The Modern Homesteading Podcast

Making A Difference With Urban Permaculture: Guest Heather Butler

On Today’s Podcast Episode, Harold has a conversation with Heather Butler from the Urban Permaculture Podcast about the expansion of her urban permaculture homestead and food forest. The Modern Homesteading Podcast, Episode 202 – May 15, 2023 Listen To The Podcast Heather works in the aviation industry and travels for work more than she's home.…

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May 15, 2023

The Modern Homesteading Podcast

A Beginners Guide To Growing Potatoes On The Homestead

On This Episode of The Modern Homesteading Podcast, Harold and Rachel Talk About Growing Potatoes On The Homestead. Why You Should and How To Have The Most Successful Harvest. The Modern Homesteading Podcast, Episode 201 – May 8, 2023 Listen To The Podcast We Discuss On The Podcast: About Potatoes Potatoes are part of the…

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May 8, 2023

Product Reviews

Gilmour Pro Commercial Hose: A Good Choice For A Homestead Essential

Don't get me started about junk hoses that don't last! A reliable, heavy-duty water hose is an essential tool for every homesteader. It helps you water plants, wash equipment, clean outdoor areas, and perform numerous other tasks around the property. In this review, I will take a detailed look at the 3/4 Inch x 100…

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May 8, 2023

Blog - Homesteading, Permaculture, Gardening

15 High-Yield, Easy-To-Grow Vegetables You Can Grow For A Bountiful Harvest

Gardening is not only a fulfilling and enjoyable hobby but also a sustainable way to provide fresh produce for you and your family. If you're new to gardening or simply looking for a way to maximize your harvest, it's important to choose the right vegetables that are both easy to grow and produce high yields.…

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May 3, 2023

Blog - Homesteading, Permaculture, Gardening

How To Get Free Mulch For Your Permaculture Inspired Garden

Mulch can be one of the greatest assets available for your garden. Here are a few possible resources for free mulch for your homestead.

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May 3, 2023

The Modern Homesteading Podcast

Building A Homestead From A Cornfield, Dairy Goats, and The Importance Of Community: Guest Ashley Burton

On Today’s Podcast Episode, Harold has a conversation with Ashley Burton from Mulberry Branch Farm about her homesteading journey, dairy goats, and her involvement in helping organize the Indiana Homesteading Conference. The Modern Homesteading Podcast, Episode 200 – May 1, 2023 Listen To The Podcast Ashley and her Husband started their homesteading journey 13 years…

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May 1, 2023

Support the work of Redemption Permaculture at the Small Town Homestead and the Modern Homesteading Podcast

Allelulia on 10 Ways To Use Comfrey On Your Permaculture Homestead
You ve got me hooked. thank you so much for sharing your education with the world. You are a good…
Nadya on Jostaberry: A Homesteader’s Dream Berry for Permaculture Gardens
Thank you for this lovely overview. I was delighted to find a Jostaberry at our Edible Landscaping of Yamhill Co.…
Harold Thornbro on What Is A Permaculture Keyline Design?
Keyline design and swales or terraces both help manage water, but they do it a little differently. Keyline design uses…
Scott on What Is A Permaculture Keyline Design?
What's the difference between keyline and making sales, or making terraces?
Harold Thornbro on Why Do Beets Taste Like Dirt? Is It Normal?
LOL! Poetry

Faithful in the Busy Season
“Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men.”
— Colossians 3:23 (ESV)

Spring has a way of waking up the homestead. After the slower rhythm of winter, the days suddenly fill with activity. Garden beds need prepared. Seeds must be planted at the right time. Fences repaired. Animals checked. Tools sharpened. Everywhere you look, there’s another task waiting.

The excitement of the season brings energy, but it also brings responsibility. Spring doesn’t wait for us to feel ready. The work simply arrives, and it’s up to us to step into it.

As I move from one chore to the next, I’m reminded of the words in Colossians 3:23:
“Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men.”

The daily work of a homestead may seem ordinary—turning soil, hauling feed, fixing a gate, planting a row of seeds—but Scripture reminds us that no work done with the right heart is ordinary to God.

Each task becomes an opportunity to serve Him.

The garden rows we plant, the animals we care for, the repairs we make—these aren’t just chores. They are acts of stewardship. They are reminders that God has placed us in a place where our labor can reflect His goodness and provision.

Spring’s busyness teaches a quiet lesson: faithfulness in small tasks matters.

Just like a harvest begins with tiny seeds placed carefully into the soil, a life of faith is built through small acts of obedience done day after day.

Homestead Reflection

As the work of spring begins, I want to ask myself:
- Am I approaching my work with gratitude or with frustration?
- Do I see the daily tasks as burdens or as opportunities to honor God?
- How can I turn ordinary chores into acts of worship?
Because when work is done with the right heart, even the simplest task can glorify God.

Prayer

Lord, thank You for the work You place before me. Help me to approach every task with a willing heart and a spirit of gratitude. Whether I am planting, repairing, feeding, or harvesting, remind me that my work is ultimately done for You. Teach me to be faithful in the small things, trusting that You bring the growth in Your perfect time. Amen.