Summer 2024

LOCAL HOMESTEADER

CLEMENTINE SMITH

The Barefoot Veggie Wagon

In a world that often glorifies hustle and ambition, the words of 1 Thessalonians 4:11-12 offer a refreshing and counter-cultural perspective: “Make it your ambition to lead a quiet life, to mind your own business and work with your hands, just as we told you, so that your daily life may win the respect of outsiders and so that you will not be dependent on anybody.” This scripture calls us to embrace simplicity, hard work, and a life of interdependence.

For Clementine Smith, living out this verse means finding fulfillment and purpose in the quiet rhythms of her home, garden, and barnyard. It’s a life where every plant, every animal, and every family member relies on one another and, ultimately, on God for growth and health.

WHAT WAS YOUR INSPIRATION TO BECOME A HOMESTEADER?

Home is truly where my heart is, so I wanted a job that would allow me to stay there. I started taking over more of the garden work and selling excess veggies.

One of the things I’m most proud of is my curiosity which leads me to discover and accomplish things I’m passionate about. I know myself and trust myself enough to push through adversity and kind caution.

The first morning I ever milked my cow, I did it sitting in an open barn with her, not attached to anything. She was standing over a bowl of feed, which was unbelievable considering the morning before she had been in a commercial dairy.

My parents have been gardening for as long as I can remember. Helping to grow things was just part of my life.

When it comes to gardening, sometimes the production of the garden will fail for many years- but that’s just the nature of growing things. overcoming these challenges is never to get discouraged and quit.