News From The Semi Homestead

  • A New Year at the Homestead: Looking Back with Gratitude, Stepping Forward with Hope

    Hello There! There’s something about New Year’s Day that makes us all pause for a moment. The house is a little quieter, the Christmas lights may still be glowing, and the coffee somehow tastes extra good. It’s that in‑between space — where one year closes its door, and another stands wide open, full of promise.

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  • A Homestead Christmas

    As I’ve gotten older I have come to realize Christmas means different things to different people. As strange as it is to me, some people today are even questioning whether or not believers should celebrate Christmas. I think because of the internet, there are a lot of crazy ideas floating around out there. Personally I

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  • Simple, Cozy Candles from Thrifted Finds

    Hello There! There are just some things that make a house feel like home to me — warm light, a cozy kitchen, and the gentle flicker of a candle at the end of the day. I’ve always loved candles, and if you know me well, you know I’ve also always loved a good thrift store.

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  • The Analog Advantage: Why Your Homestead Needs a Notebook, Not Another Screen

    Out here on the stead, life moves slow and fast all at the same time. There’s always something needing your hands—a limb to cut, a pile of debris to move, a pond to clean—and the last thing I want is another buzzing screen begging for attention. The more Missy and I lean into this simple,

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  • Memories, Mercy, and Meaning: Thanksgiving This Side of Heaven

    As November quickly approaches, my thoughts turn toward Thanksgiving. I have some great memories of Thanksgivings past, memories I wouldn’t take anything for. Memories of when Jayd, Nanny, and Laurine were still here with us. The food, the smells, the games, the laughter, all surrounding the kitchen. The only thing Missy enjoys more than cooking

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  • Sip, Clean, Relax: Simple Fall DIYs for a Cozy Home

    Cozy up this fall with a warm autumn tea and easy DIY cleaners made with natural ingredients — simple, peaceful ways to make your home feel welcoming.

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  • Finding Simple, Natural Remedies in a Complicated World

    Hello There! In this crazy world we’re living in, I find myself increasingly drawn to simple, DIY, and holistic ways to care for our bodies. Over the years, I’ve realized just how many lotions, medicines, and “quick fixes” are filled with chemicals, toxins, and side effects that often cause more harm than good. I don’t

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  • Semi Homestead Fall/Winter Maintenance – Indoor

    Hello fellow Semi Homesteaders! Kyle here. Now that we’ve tackled the big jobs outside—things like clearing debris from the mower spindles, getting the air filter blown out after use, and stabilizing or draining the fuel before storage—it’s time to shift our focus inside. If you’re anything like Missy, you’re already enjoying those “crisp fall nights”

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  • Grief, Grace, and God’s Goodness: Our Life After Loss

    Hello There! This past Sunday, September 7th, marked nine years since our son went home to be with Jesus. It’s a day that comes every year, kind of like Thanksgiving or Christmas. I always know it’s on the way, but somehow, I’m never quite ready when it gets here. People sometimes say time heals all

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  • Semi Homestead Fall/Winter Maintenance – Outdoors

    Howdy, fellow Semi Homesteaders! Kyle here. I just finished mowing a little while ago and was cleaning off the mower when I began to think about fall and what all I will need to do in the coming weeks. Now, as much as Missy loves those “crisp fall nights” – she’s probably already brewing up

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