For San Diego mother Heather Thelen, owning a business is more than a livelihood — it’s a living classroom for her children.
Thelen is the owner of Hawthorne Country Store, a local chain of businesses that aim to offer products to fellow homesteaders while inspiring newcomers to embrace the homesteading lifestyle. In this Q&A, she shares insights into her upbringing, her role as a mother and grandmother, and her vision for the future of homesteading in San Diego County.
**Tell me about your family business and working with family.**
We started this business because my parents and I wanted to be able to raise our kids in our workplace. It has always been a part of who we are. My dad passed away, but mom still comes in to make sure we are taking care of things. Four generations are now actively a part of our stores.
**How did you first get into homesteading?**
My mother’s parents were missionaries and gleaners. Because of that, she had an unusual education in home arts, which included sewing, canning, and gardening. My dad was also a “make what you need out of what you have” kind of guy. This is the heart of homesteading.
I grew up with every inch under my bed covered in canning jars. I begged for fruit on the bottom yogurt instead of the raw milk yogurt mom made. Now I am grateful.
**Tell me about raising your children and grandchildren in the business.**
We have two sons and two grandsons. They are a big part of our reason. How can one not be inspired by the learning and inquisitive nature of younger generations? The satisfaction in creatively making things with your own mind and hands is priceless.
**What’s next for you?**
We are happily serving San Diego County, and we will continue to be on the lookout for more opportunities in products and markets that we believe will make San Diego homesteading more easily attainable for anyone interested. I really want people to enjoy jumping in at small-scale homesteading!
For more information about Hawthorne Country Store, visit [hawthornecountrystore.com](https://hawthornecountrystore.com).
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Have a story idea? Email us at [email protected] and follow her on Instagram at [@hoawritessd](https://instagram.com/hoawritessd).
https://timesofsandiego.com/life/2025/10/26/san-diego-moms-homesteader-heather-thelen-on-turning-business-into-a-classroom/
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