About Deborah
At Old Ways Made New, Deborah helps busy women move from overwhelm to confidence in natural living, without pressure or perfectionism. Her mission is simple: She does the research so you don’t have to.
With training in herbalism and aromatherapy since 2005, a B.S. in Animal Science, a Master of Education, and certifications as a Master Herbalist and Animal Aromatherapist, Deborah brings a blend of deep tradition and modern research to every conversation. She doesn’t just teach from books. She and her family live on 147 acres in East Texas, where they’ve raised cattle, horses, goats, chickens, geese, and ducks. Natural living isn’t her hobby. It’s been her life for over 25 years.
Deborah is also a living history coordinator and historian who often portrays a “wise woman,” bringing the past to life by showing how healing and home life looked centuries ago. That same passion for history inspired her journey into natural living and shapes everything she teaches: old ways, made new for the life you’re actually living.
Whether you’re sorting through conflicting advice online, trying to figure out what’s right for your family, or just need someone to help you take the next step, Deborah brings dedicated time, real research, and a heart that will meet you exactly where you are. Grace, not guilt.
My Story
I’m currently living on a 147 acre ranch in East Texas, purchased from my grandparents back in 1995. This place has been in our family since 1969.
Where I live was once known as Elmtown Community. There was a grist mill and cotton gin on our place with a mercantile, post office, and cemetary across the road. It’s all gone now except for the cemetary, of course, and a barn on my side of the road.
You’ll find Charolais cattle, a menagerie of livestock and poultry, as well as working dogs on this place. It’s been such a blessing being able to raise my children in the country. I’ve been homeschooling our children since 2005. The last just graduated in 2025.
I earned a B.S. in Animal Science and M.Ed. in Math Education and have continued to further my education by studying herbs, essential oils, and nutrition. You can learn more about my journey toward a natural lifestyle in this blog post, but I continued on to become a natural living educator, master herbalist, and even an animal aromatherapist!
This has become my little HOMEstead. I believe your HOMEstead is where your heart is and not determined by how many animals you’re raising or what you’re growing. I have made soap with our goat’s milk, grown a few herbs and veggies, learned how to sew clothing for living history events, and more. Now, my focus and favorite thing to do is use herbs and essential oils to formulate salves, creams, healthy teas, and other natural solutions. And, of course, I LOVE mentoring others on their own journey to natural living.
I have a passion for learning the truth about history. This has grown from my participation in living history. I even learned how to hand-roast my own coffee over the fire.
My goal is to create an atmosphere that is real and fun by showing you what a natural lifestyle really looks like, authentically and without filters. Some call it slow living. Others say it’s a natural lifestyle, and then some use “homesteading” when they search to learn about topics like this. To me, it’s all one in the same.
So, grab a cup of coffee, or tea, and have a look around. (I am known for my coffee and long philosophical discussions.) I appreciate your comments, suggestions, or questions. Be sure to subscribe to our email newsletter while you’re here! Stay informed about upcoming events and get my newsletter full of tips and how-tos.
Blessings to you and yours,
Deborah
Hi there! I an excited to learn about your living history day and finding other like minded folks! I work full time in the medical field and find my little Homestead to be a place of peace and respite, doing the small things that I can to keep up happy and healthy naturally. We raise fiber animals and I love learning to make useful wearable and household items from our herd. I’ve got next week’s events on my calendar! So glad to find you and your resources!
Hi Kathy! I’m so glad you found us as well! I look forward to meeting you next week.
Oh, Deborah, this right down my alley !! I love learning and finding new ways of doing things while making use of the old tried and true ways. I’m a retired teacher–once a teacher, always a teacher–just like you !! I’m thrilled to be under your teaching. Pat Jolly
Pat, so glad you’re here! I look forward to working together!