My husband took the diving board approach to chickens to a whole new level. I wanted 'some chickens' I got 27. The next thing I knew... we had 450, a poultry farm and he was like "well you wanted them." *Blink blink blink* My husband doesn't do chicken math.. he does chicken calculus.
I've always dreamed of living on a farm, but I've always lived in town. Right now my little family (me, hubby and 3 kids) is living with my dad on 1/3 acre. I finally made the decision to work with what I had! Did the research and now we have 7 chickens! Plan to plant a few vegetables this year too. Thanks for this video! It is difficult to avoid the "I want it all and I want it now" mentality, especially in our society today. Trying to remind myself to work with what I have and that it all takes time and hard work!
Awww.. you are so great. You talked me off the ledge. Several years ago I lost my small farm, my business, my marriage and had to move and start over. Me and my 2 girls have been living in a city since then, and I just never stopped grieving I think. We had dairy goats, alpacas, chickens, horses, and a good size garden. In about 3 years my youngest will go off to college and I want to revive my farm life!! But now I’m almost 50! Can I really go and start over? again?....Anyways... you have encouraged me see things in a more positive way. I’ve put in some raised beds last year, and have been planning for a few chickens and bees - but I just dont do it because of the ‘its not complete’ thing. ‘Its not what I want’. Oh gosh, I realize now how spoiled that sounds. So thank you for your sensible and thoughtful reflections. You are a natural uplifter!
We just started our journey! And it has taken years to get here!!! I think we forget that today was yesterday's dream, so enjoy it!! It's never too late to begin again! We started to record our progress via RUclips too, and I hope to remember to be joyful through it all :)
I’m in my late 40s and just moved out of a condo to a home. I can’t do anything this extensive, but I figure a little a year and I’ll be there by retirement! Good luck and enjoy the journey!
For me, a small farm is just a dream. I live in California and real estate is just too expensive. So nine years ago, we decided to turn our back yard into our version of a mini farm. Every year I plant as much food as possible and love everything about it. We even added three arch trellises after watching one of your videos. Thanks for passing all this great info to your viewers.
I’m an urban pioneer woman. Yes you read that correctly. I live in NYC and I pretty much make everything I have in my home. There are no chemicals in my home, I make cleaning products, beauty products and all my foods from scratch. I love to can. Not in love with sewing but i also do that as well. This year 2020 I’m planning to leave this city for rural NM. I want my own place where I can raise chickens, food, etc., And you give me hope
I am just watching Jess's vlog now. I SO hope you were able to get out of the City ( its 3 yrs later now) & are now on yr own homestead! I'm from the tri-state area & currently living in Colorado. Hoping to get a small property next year, to fulfill my homesteading dream of 40 years! Best of luck to you! Jess is so inspirational!
I’m not in the community whatsoever but do love to be outdoors and do a little gardening. I decided to watch your video and am deeply moved by your advice and how it applies to so much of life. Such a kind and generous soul you are and I thank you for sharing your experiences and wisdom. I needed to hear your message and am thankful to have found this video by accident.
I am glad you mentioned how it isnt good to get animals before people have the resources and knowlege to care for them and, even then, to only get the quantity that is sustainable. I have seem a lot of sad YT situations where what i am really seeing is animal cruelty either through ignorance or unconcern.
Drew Kimball you are obviously not the impulsive type. I have no more then one hour of sun anywhere in my yard and I’m trying to think of a way to appropriate my neighbor’s side yard for a garden!
I couldn’t be happier that this video was recommended to me. My husband and I want a small, sustainable farm in the near future. The pressure to do everything perfectly has been so draining! Thank you for sharing your experiences, I can’t wait to binge watch the rest of your channel.
I LOVE listening to you talk! It is so obvious that your passion is in all of the things you say! So how many years have you been gardening? Great video!
In a small capacity, I started growing about 10 years ago. And of course, helped my mom all through my childhood. But for a long time, my harvests were handfuls. I grew a lot in containers before I moved here.
I raised a garden and chickens for my family when the kids were young, and enjoyed everything about it. That said, what you said about fear hit a cord with me..part of the reason I gardened and raised chickens was to supplement our diet because raising kids is expensive :) I am now disabled and unable to to much but I still dream of being able to garden and have chickens again..Lord willing I will as I am only 66.
You're totally made for making these videos and helping us all out! You're an awesome teacher! :) thank you for your time! Beautiful garden!!! Very inspiring!!
Im stunned. Hilarious? Having to kill animals that you've raised and cared for is not funny. It's heartbreaking. If you had to shoot your dog because her back was broken to put her out of her misery, would that be hilarious? Obviously, you've never had to cull your animals.
Kathi Gregory, really? It wasnt about laughing about that. The explanation and admission of learning through bad regretable mistakes as we all do in our lives was an acknowledgment of all our fowlability and shame over it. And people make jokes about slaughtering meat to eat anyway because it isnt that anyone relishes it unless they are insane. Most people eat meat and it is more honest to admit killing your food than to pretend it doesnt happen. If we all faced up to our pain about each thing we had to do we would be crumpled over and never get out of bed. Wrong? Probably. That is why many people ask for forgiveness from Higher Power. Or become vegan for thirteen years without knowing how to do it without harming health. If you say we should exhibit more direct compassion more often then okay but you cant presume to know who has been through what and insinuate that people like the mistakes that harm others just because they are mocking their own stupidity and the fact that realizing ones stupidity is also a learning and sharing event. I figure most balled their eyes out over the situations that they go through and afterwards learn forgiveness but not fully so laugh to keep from crying all over again or staying furious over it like most of us would at the mistakes we make if we didnt have coping mechanisms. And we try not to make the mistakes again. If this stuns you, dont ever go to a wake. Or a roast.
The Home Plate Special , Im a bit confused. You said "it wasn't laughing about that". If you mean the video, I agree. Hard lessons shared to help others. I was responding to other people's comments with their laughing face emojis. It's never funny to have to slaughter your animals, whether it is for the cause to put meat on the table or because they are sick. I've had to slaughter a flock because they were sick. It was terrible. I just don't see anything funny about that.
She has totally inspired me, I just built 2 raised beds and planted my first fall garden in our urban backyard. Here's to starting small but actually starting!
A dream is just a dream without working daily to make it a reality. One step at a time and you eventually get there if you don’t give up. No one can take it away if you want it bad enough.
@T'pol Trek I've certainly learned a lot! Lettuce and cabbage grew well, carrots too. We've been composting our kitchen and yard waste to amend the soil, which has been great. Unfortunately, once the leaves come in the spring we have too much shade in our yard! Looking for partial shade varieties.
@@mydailyreward2090 It 's trial and error, lettuce and cabbage grew! Right now I have peas, squash, corn, tomatoes, peppers, spinach and onions growing. Time will tell!
"Fear will not sustain it"-so true. Your videos are always so though provoking for me. It is so easy to be focused on those further along in the journey that I often forget how much in my couple year that I have to share with those just starting. So grateful that you have taken the time to share...and 4 yrs is actually 20 when using chicken math.
6 months ago the idea of starting a homestead became a very realistic goal, and I have been obsessing over it ever since. I have been watching videos, reading books, and I even have a few small raised beds in my backyard that I've been practicing in. However, I have chronic depression. There are some days that I struggle to even take care of my children. My motivation and energy are an exhausting roller coaster. I was wondering if you or anyone you know has these issues. It is my hope of hopes that maybe the sunshine and challenge of a small homestead could help break me of my fatigue, but I worry that the fear of not being able to care for it will keep me from achieving it.
I suffer from major depression also. I have the same dream and fear. I just got chickens 17weeks ago. I have raised beds. I quess this is the networking Jes was speaking of. I'm here if you ever want to talk or text. Lorilozanopta@gmail.com.
Peeka Bewm I hope the sunshine and nature helps! I’ve battled with depression and anxiety all my life, so I totally relate and empathize with your struggle. Especially trying to be there for kids. You aren’t alone! 💕
I have found gardening to be a form of therapy. It got me through the grief of my husband passing away suddenly in March. There is something about digging in the dirt that is very grounding. There is hope in gardening, that little seed you plant is going to become a huge plant with food you can eat, all because of the effort and love and care you put into it! Get your kids involved too!
Peeka Bewm I had a simillar struggle. I started by - stopping drinking tap water and only filteted, reverse osmosis and eliminating the chemicals and flouride. Then started growing in pots and planters. Stopped eating prefab market foods that are chemicals and really not anything my body knew what to do with, ler alone use to nourish me. Now everything is turned around, no energy issues or depression struggle. Much love and blessings to you and your family.
Peeka, The key is to keep things small for awhile. There are a lot of ways to automate things so upkeep isn't so consuming. Chickens are great because you can be as involved as you want to be. Gardening can be very relaxing and therapeutic as long as you keep things manageable. I'm not sure how old your kids are but there are a lot of chores on a homestead that are kid friendly. You would be surprised what those little hands can do if we let them. A homestead is different for everyone and the great thing is we can each make ours unique to our needs and abilities. Prayers to you😀
We got started before we were ready and before we knew it, we were addicted. We ended up with over 800 birds within the first 2 years. Chickens, ducks, geese, guineas, and turkeys....It's easy to get in above your head!!!
What a marvelous speech. Wow! You really have command of the language and you deliver your message in such an inspirational way. I love your vids and I have learned so much from you. Thanks.
First things first, your hair look great! That being said, we call out homestead "Rough-Hewn" because we do what you're suggesting...convert things for other uses....use inexpensive materials for projects....go small-er scale to begin with...cut back or wait on things, etc. There's a lot of wisdom in this video! God bless!
Alfredo Diaz Sounds like your first step would be to commit to doing it. Maybe deciding to buy a small house with an acre to start. Wishing you the best!!
Jess you should be a public speaker, your that inspiring. I know you're shy but you have a talent. Your vlogs whether it's General inspiration and information or spiritual Journeys are really inspiring and my favorites. You have a way that makes folks feel that they've known you forever and can trust your opinions you are truly a blessing to Folk's. Never underestimate yourself you bring a lot to the table. Thank you
Thank you Hoss! I've done some speaking, and as Cliff commented as well, we do have a home church, though that looks less like public speaking and mroe like family. Thank you for your comment, I really appreciate you taking the time to encourage me!
Love your videos....i am a new farmer that just bought a 4.5 acre farmland and your videos has been a great help to me.👍👍👍 watching this all the way from Fiji islands 🏖🏝🏞🌏🌅
Hey Lady, love what you're doing. I'm retired, 64, living with my best friend and wife. I had 12 acres in Seale Alabama. Had a few chickens and a small garden. When I retired we decided to move close to Atlanta to be closer to the kids grandkids and great grandkids. I was sure the small farm life I loved was over. God bless my wife Lyn. She found us 3 ,1/2 acres with a small barn and a workshop. Last year after watching your videos, I built a couple of raised beds from old metal garage door panels. Back in November I built a chicken coop like the ones Carolina coops sells. We now have 17 chickens. From McMurray, they really are a good company. This year I'll put in more beds. It was so wonderful last year having the 2 and 3 year olds helping pick tomatoes and bell pepper. Then coming in and eating what we just picked. I just wanted to thank you for helping us get back into gardening. What you're doing really is important.
I wish I started earlier as well but last year I decided I can grow my own veggies at least in my small townhouse garden. The first seed planting was a disaster mostly though inexperience but the weather was also unusually hot for months, which was not good for unprotected seedlings. Once I realised I would have a zero crop from my seeds, I was so discouraged, but that lasted about a week, so I went to a reputable nursery and got seedlings at a very good price and filled up my raised beds and I am still harvesting, even though I lost some of those as well through them bolting in the heat. But I learned that they grow better in cooler weather so I have prepared and have seedlings now I am going to plant soon for Autumn. Being an avid follower of a couple of homesteaders, I have learned so much. I never thought of an autumn/winter garden but have quite a variety of seedlings I will transplant soon and in April my garlic will be planted. We have mild winters, so I will see how long I can keep crops alive. I am so glad I just started and am learning and am experimenting as the veggies from my garden tastes so much better it has astounded me! So yes, overcome the fear, but baby steps and ask questions and do not be afraid to try. Oh and a last thing, do NOT sow all your seeds, but keep some for later just in case ;-)
Love the tip about doing what you can on a small scale. The house we are in doesn’t have nearly enough space to grow as much as I’d like to do eventually. But I’m doing what I can now! Two apple trees, two plum trees, six blueberry bushes, a vegetable garden...
Such good advice, at 73yrs. I look back at a time where we keep three large gardens, canned, pickled and froze a great deal of food for ourselves and extended family. My in-laws were so knowledgable about all aspects of living off the land, while not homesteading, they combined farming, small stock keeping, fruit trees and utilized wild plants. We helped other family members maintain their livestock, so our freezer was full of beef, we made cider and fruit jams, we allowed a bee keeper in our orchard for honey. Clearly community and family provided all we really needed! And it was fun, because we did it together!
At 73 just a baby. I'm 78. 5 years ago I became divorced and retired. I now own a small patch of heaven in the Free State of South Africa. I've planted fruit trees and am trying to grow vegetables that will see me through Climate Change, as I'm planning to live to 150. I started with a few township chickens that roam the village. Three are sitting on eggs. If I'm not outside then I'm looking at stuff like this inspirational Root and Refuge Lady.
I'm watching this in July of 2021. I just watched your house get delivered to SC. Thank you so much for teaching me that it's okay to dream! I'm so happy that all your dreams are coming true!
Love it! I’m 13 and my family and I really want to move back out there to have our own homestead/farm. We live in a smaller sized town in southern Ontario Canada, and we grow our own food in our garden. Our yard is very small with our pool, fire pit and deck, so we don’t have much room to garden without getting rid of all of our grass. I love being around animals and used to work at a friends house just to enjoy the farming environment. All in all, we really want to start over in a new home away from society to enjoy our lives living the way we want. Thanks for this video it’s very inspiring
"The point of homesteading is to get away from the pressure." Amen! I love this advice. I am the type to get carried away with things out of excitement too so I'm glad to hear your advice cause it is helping to ground me
I've searched for gardening videos and you are a natural. I like your way of thinking and expressing your thoughts, it is genuine. Thank you for all your videos!
I agree about community and I just fell into it by accident. I wanted to build raised beds (sounded cool and I did not have to crawl around on my knees) so I googled how to do it and landed up on Doug and Stacy's site and oh my, they opened my eyes for so many things and I gobbled it up. As I was searching for wood in my area, I landed on a site with reclaimed wood, very inexpensive but lovely wood and that was when another light went on. So the story continues. i am such a noobie gardener, I joined an amazing monthly garden club in my area, managed by a woman who does super sustainable organic gardening that just makes sense to me. Got some dud experiences with seeds (from mostly stupidity lol) but still have a nice little veggie garden and still learning :-D. So thanks to you and the few other homesteaders I follow, I am a work in progress and nothing's gonna break my stride :-D
And to think that people have laughed at me because all I want is 3 hens. There is only my wife and I left now - all the kids are gown, gone and raising their own families. So there's just Sue and me. We don't eat eggs every day so 3 good layers will provide more than enough and I can save the rest in lime-water for the winter months. They'll keep for 6-9 months that way in the pantry. Thank you Jessica for telling me that I'm not nuts for being willing to build for just 3. It's what I want. If that changes down the road I can always adapt. And woha! I saw you pick sunflowers to go feed the hens? I never thought about that! Awesome. We love them for their beauty, but to know I can feed them my flower heads? Very cool!
Thanks for sharing, even as a 5th generation homesteader we still make mistakes and so glad you're sharing there's no perfect way to do it and to get started where you are with plans to grow as you can.
That is what I am doing right now...small scale garden in suburbia. I am trying about 10 vegetables this year, with a few herbs. I am also seeing how we can learn how to live with less water, hanging laundry, etc. Little steps. We are 2-3 years out from going all in!
Jess, your last point about fear of bad things happening before I'm set up for homesteading true homesteading is definitely a problem for me. I live in a very small rental house and thankfully my landlord has let me build raises beds. This is my second season to garden and I bought a bunch of canning materials so that i could can what I'm growing. I have never canned before but i have now canned bread and butter pickles which are delicious. I just bought a pressure canner and will be canning tomatoes in the morning. I liked your advice about networking because I don't know anyone that gardens or cans or any of the other skills you need to homestead. I am scared that i won't learn everything i need to learn before I might really need the skills. I really appreciate you doing these videos as i learn a ton from you. You really do bless alot of people by sharing what you are doing. Sorry for the rambling but I just wanted you to know a little bit about the people you are reaching, teaching and blessing each time you do a video. Thank you so much!
Tamara Butterworth You have inspired me sweetie girl, I am checking out canning bread which I never heard of in my 65 years. Thanks so much!! Margie Guy. “Hanging with the Guys”
#1 Ya don't need to pressure can 🍅. Hot water bath method is just fine. Pressure can for your low acid things like beans, squash and meats. This has always is just been a way of life for me....Amish country. If you need any advice (I'm not an expert) just ask.
Great videos! You advised people to learn skills while you wait for your farm dream to be fulfilled. My family just bought an acre to have a mini farm. In the planning stages, we got chickens, already had a pet pig. We had skills such as gardening, canning, cooking from scratch, making soap, building structures, sewing, solar power, and much more. It has made a world of difference as we set up our farm. And we are still working full time. Thank you from our Farmstead!!!
Thank you so much for sharing such awesome information. I am becoming more serious about growing my own food and am so excited for this planting season. I have been binge watching your channel on the rainy days. Ready to get my hands in the dirt!!
In order to grow, change is required. In order to change, unfamiliar choices are required. In order to make unfamiliar choices, faith is required. In order to be faithful, repetition is required. Faith + Repetition = Victory Faith is being sure of what we hope for, and certain of what we do not see.
You are so honest and uplifting! So very smart for such a young woman. It's called life sweetheart! Live and learn. Oooh bless your sweet learning heart! God bless you 💕
wonderful, so informative, agree on the networking. Very fortunate to have 1/2 acre in wonderful sub tropical Australia. We downsized from 5 acres in retirement and moved a small distance to better soil/climate. Rich soil, great rain and so MANY people with ideas and knowledge in our semi-rural area. We have a central food exchange, a shed on one of the properties, where we drop in excess for anyone where we swap for free, we post what we dropped off on the closed facebook group. It can be from poo bags, eggs to pumpkins, preserves, greens, honey ( I keep bees. ) The honour system is working because we are all accountable on social media and in real life. We all benefit We have organically evolved a rich, knowledgeable, bartering community. God Bless.
This sounds amazing!! We're urban with chickens, ducks, 2 mini pet pigs (rescued), 3 dogs, 3 garden areas and some indoor gardens. I love the idea of doing more trading... I belong to a clothing swap group, so maybe that's a way for me to start a share group!
It's good to be flexible regarding housing of livestock, but never scrimp on predator proofing! Otherwise you can lose everything you've worked so hard for...almost overnight!
My whole family adores you and we have started watching your videos together. I didn't realize you only had 4 acres. I have three. I would LOVE to see a video on how you have laid out your homestead so far. How big is your raised bed area? Where are your chickens and goats, your house and greenhouse?
Every house I've owned in the city has had a garden by the time I moved. My last one was a great selling point. It was only 5 feet by 20 feet, but in a perfect location and hugely productive. Prospective buyers were encouraged to pick the tomatoes. Now I'm working on my own 5 acre dream. Not ready for chickens yet, but that will happen eventually.
Just starting our "farming" journey in our back yard... and this was the BEST thing I have heard in all my research. I have wanted to farm since I was a young woman and now that I am in my 40's with four children I am finally getting started. I am so excited and this was really great wisdom. Thank you, Jess!
I loved raising turkeys and found it as easy as raising chickens, regardless of what people say. My recommendation is, you need to have them graze during the day. They are furious eaters and will eat you out of house and home if you are purchasing feed alone. They are sweet animals and I sure enjoyed them.
Hi Jess, I this was done 2 years ago. I would love to see if you have done another video like this in 2020 and how has your experience changed the things you would do over. God Bless you and your beautiful family. You inspire me everyday to continue planting and being excited about future plans to grow plants and take care of our wonderful chickens.
You had my mind blown alteady with the gardening advice, I’ve never found such a valuable fountain of resources about anything ever on RUclips. But what you said at the end of this video was so, so wise and it hit home. I have left my top management career to move to a village, become a woodworker and have a little farm. I was afraid for so long but it’s time. I am so greatful for you. Hugs from Transylvania.
I bought the blueberry gold, blueberries, napa chardonnay, and the big sungold from wild boar farms. I don't have enough room to do them all at once but I definitely want to grow as much as I can in my apartment complex. I love gardening and the relationship I have felt has grown with God because I really feel like he's really close there..idk. But I love watching your life and am blessed to get to know you and your beautiful family. I wish I could have a chance to have such a great life and hope it's something God will give me one day too! 😄 you are an inspiration!
Thank you for this video! So glad I watched this. We just begun for the first time. Started by planting some veggie seeds in our kitchen. And we got 3 goats and our GLD. Instead of rushing into chickens, we're easing into it. And will get there eventually. Need to build a chicken coop first. Also hubby built us raised garden beds framed by trees he cut down. Again thanks for your video! So encouraging and inspiring and sensible!
You are so calming to listen to and you make me not feel quite so stupid 🤪. I wish you would do a worship video day. I get so much listening to you. I know like you have extra time. Thanks for everything from NC
I feel like there's a Portlandia sketch about the couple who track down the local farmer who sources their food at the restaurant precisely for this reason. I mention this because I'm considering moving from NYC to Oregon and watching videos like this haha :)
Opel is looking at me like "what? You don't think I'm a good deal?" Not you Opel. I wasn't talking about you. Your a good deal! 🤣🤣🤣 You have me. Liked and subscribed! ❤️❤️❤️
Thank you for sharing your hard won realities with me. My wife and I are aspiring to the goal of being self sustaining someday. Right now we live in the city of Pittsburgh in a house with a small yard. A few years now we are experimenting with sprouting baker creek seeds (along with stuff like potatoes from the grocery store), composting, learning about poultry, as well as bee keeping. You are so right, about starting small and experimenting. We are being patient and coming to realize what it is we want as well as what motivates us. I now know it’s not fear. Great advice🌈😃🤙 about being honest with yourself.
Do you know why so many people "get" what you're saying? I believe the Father is calling His people back to the land. Truly. We moved 900 miles 5 months ago to do this very thing. To learn how to garden and how to take care of chickens. To sew and to can and to enjoy the Father's Creation. It took me 3 months to find steady work here. I am planning a spring garden... We didn't have the means this spring or summer and with fall coming, I've had to buy a woodstove and have to worry about having enough firewood. I was buying cereal and milk on credit cards because my grand daughters and son still needed to eat, job or no job. Now I am paying for that !! This time will be used to pay down the debt of moving and we will be able to move forward. Its Hard to be patient. By next year I hope to have 6 or 8 hens and ONE roo. I have to ease into it all and I am Not ready for butchering. I'd like two goaty girls for milk, but I refuse to have any farm animals until I am Sure we can be safe about it. Your wise words are encouraging.
Hi Debby, I am so glad Jess said comments are so good for people to share, because that is how I learn, too. Not just from the vid, but from the comments under the vid. I really resonate with your comment that Father is calling out so many of us to do this. I am proud that you took the courage to do this. He does not call the equipped, but equips the called. I pray your efforts prosper and you come out of that debt soon.
I agree, I was called out of the city 2 states away is where I ended up. I knew nothing about this type of life. Do you know my mom came here and said oh my, do you know that you were conceived on this road! lol What are the odds? So I guess I’m home.
Oh good grief! What kind of god gives you a child then takes them away at the age of 18! "Father" doesn't give a eff! He/it left it to us and moved on.
I JUSt found your channel and Im bingewatching your videos :-) SUCH a blessing that you decided to share your knowledge and experience with everyone, thanks! Love from New Mexico
My first real experience with chickens I had about 150, head... LOL So ya I know about jumping into head first with chickens. I so miss having THEM. We will have some here SOON.
That's why I'm here! 😅🙋♀️ well sort of. We just bought our first home at the beginning of the year and I knew I'd want to start a garden and grow some food eventually but the pandemic definitely lit a fire under my butt.
Thank you! I just love your videos. I’ve been dreaming of having a farm for over a decade and just this year I finally put in a garden at our house. Still in town but I came to the realization that I need to do what little I can where I’m at. It’s definitely an experiment having 3 black walnut trees in our back yard, I’m thinking raised beds next year and a shade cloth to protect the garden from the falling half eaten walnut husks. They literally burn holes through my plants. And I think I’ll take over some of the front yard next year too 😊 Again thank you for your insight and inspiration! Sending love from Kansas ❤️
Yes I too had black walnut trees on 3 sides of my house. I had them cut down and hauled to way to the back of my property. Nightshade plant toast when planted near where black walnut was for next ~5 years. Sunflowers, beans, Corn, not peas!, and more can grow where black walnut has grown or is growing. I created a file on my computer on what plants can tolerate juglone. Here in TN
This is the third time I have watched this video, and each time I find something new that I needed to hear. Thank you for this video, it is such a blessing!
As always I love to see my bell tell me I have a new video from you. I dream of what you speak of. I have my allowed 6 hens and raised beds. I need out of this city but I'm working with what I got. You inspire me. Thank you.
I think homesteaders are largely composed of people who love to learn new things. At 53 I am still trying new things as my children roll their eyes. Stay strong! Jean
So glad I found this channel. I might be coming into some land and I've always loved the idea of homesteading. This information was really insightful. I wish you and your family all the best and really appreciate what you do.
Second time watcjing this... haha JESS PUT THOSE SHEARS DOWN...you talk with your hands like I do...lol Do No poke or stab yourself.."Step 1 in Homesteading"
Jess, we only have a half acre. It's been our "experimental" property. Lol! We bought 4 chickens and have a 10 x 10 garden. We knew that we had to practice before jumping into a 15-20 acre tract! In the next couple of years we'll take the plunge and probably move to Missouri from Texas. The information you are giving is priceless!
Angela Conley unless you make mistakes, you’ll never learn. Fear of failure is what keeps most people from trying most things. Sure, things could go wrong. But what if things went right? Don’t be afraid to fail. Just don’t stop trying until you succeed 💜
Angela Conley I just made a horrible mess of trying to craft my own trellis. 😕 Honestly all I can do is laugh at my attempt and try again tomorrow. 💜 I wish you the best of luck!
![NOSFERATU - Official Trailer [HD] - Only In Theaters December 25](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/nulvWqYUM8k/mqdefault.jpg)
My husband took the diving board approach to chickens to a whole new level. I wanted 'some chickens' I got 27. The next thing I knew... we had 450, a poultry farm and he was like "well you wanted them." *Blink blink blink* My husband doesn't do chicken math.. he does chicken calculus.
Tell him you want "some jewelry" and see what happens. 27 chicken into 450?? You should be getting a whole jewelry store 😄😄
@@mydailyreward2090 hahahhaa that's hilarious!
That's freaking hilarious yo!
Hell yeah
I want to see a video.
I've always dreamed of living on a farm, but I've always lived in town. Right now my little family (me, hubby and 3 kids) is living with my dad on 1/3 acre. I finally made the decision to work with what I had! Did the research and now we have 7 chickens! Plan to plant a few vegetables this year too. Thanks for this video! It is difficult to avoid the "I want it all and I want it now" mentality, especially in our society today. Trying to remind myself to work with what I have and that it all takes time and hard work!
Awww.. you are so great. You talked me off the ledge. Several years ago I lost my small farm, my business, my marriage and had to move and start over. Me and my 2 girls have been living in a city since then, and I just never stopped grieving I think. We had dairy goats, alpacas, chickens, horses, and a good size garden. In about 3 years my youngest will go off to college and I want to revive my farm life!! But now I’m almost 50! Can I really go and start over? again?....Anyways... you have encouraged me see things in a more positive way. I’ve put in some raised beds last year, and have been planning for a few chickens and bees - but I just dont do it because of the ‘its not complete’ thing. ‘Its not what I want’. Oh gosh, I realize now how spoiled that sounds. So thank you for your sensible and thoughtful reflections. You are a natural uplifter!
We just started our journey! And it has taken years to get here!!! I think we forget that today was yesterday's dream, so enjoy it!! It's never too late to begin again! We started to record our progress via RUclips too, and I hope to remember to be joyful through it all :)
At 53 I'm hoping a steady pace to homesteading will finally get me there.
I’m in my late 40s and just moved out of a condo to a home. I can’t do anything this extensive, but I figure a little a year and I’ll be there by retirement! Good luck and enjoy the journey!
just in case you don't know this.... you don't need a business license to pursue a profitable hobby
Create a bit at a time. You will find your own happy place. Also known as a physical limit. ;)
For me, a small farm is just a dream. I live in California and real estate is just too expensive. So nine years ago, we decided to turn our back yard into our version of a mini farm. Every year I plant as much food as possible and love everything about it. We even added three arch trellises after watching one of your videos. Thanks for passing all this great info to your viewers.
I’m an urban pioneer woman. Yes you read that correctly. I live in NYC and I pretty much make everything I have in my home. There are no chemicals in my home, I make cleaning products, beauty products and all my foods from scratch. I love to can. Not in love with sewing but i also do that as well. This year 2020 I’m planning to leave this city for rural NM. I want my own place where I can raise chickens, food, etc., And you give me hope
I pray you made it! Fellow NM resident here. ❤
I am just watching Jess's vlog now. I SO hope you were able to get out of the City ( its 3 yrs later now) & are now on yr own homestead! I'm from the tri-state area & currently living in Colorado. Hoping to get a small property next year, to fulfill my homesteading dream of 40 years!
Best of luck to you!
Jess is so inspirational!
I’m not in the community whatsoever but do love to be outdoors and do a little gardening. I decided to watch your video and am deeply moved by your advice and how it applies to so much of life. Such a kind and generous soul you are and I thank you for sharing your experiences and wisdom. I needed to hear your message and am thankful to have found this video by accident.
I am glad you mentioned how it isnt good to get animals before people have the resources and knowlege to care for them and, even then, to only get the quantity that is sustainable. I have seem a lot of sad YT situations where what i am really seeing is animal cruelty either through ignorance or unconcern.
You'd think this would go without saying. *sigh*
Drew Kimball you are obviously not the impulsive type. I have no more then one hour of sun anywhere in my yard and I’m trying to think of a way to appropriate my neighbor’s side yard for a garden!
I mean this woman admitted to “BUTCHERING” her own chickens.... so
I couldn’t be happier that this video was recommended to me. My husband and I want a small, sustainable farm in the near future. The pressure to do everything perfectly has been so draining! Thank you for sharing your experiences, I can’t wait to binge watch the rest of your channel.
Welcome! Glad you're here!
I LOVE listening to you talk! It is so obvious that your passion is in all of the things you say! So how many years have you been gardening? Great video!
In a small capacity, I started growing about 10 years ago. And of course, helped my mom all through my childhood. But for a long time, my harvests were handfuls. I grew a lot in containers before I moved here.
I love listening to Jess also! This was a great video and had me laughing out loud!!!
i love listening to Jess she is a smart and eager woman and has a passion that is so addictive
I'm in love with you both!
I raised a garden and chickens for my family when the kids were young, and enjoyed everything about it. That said, what you said about fear hit a cord with me..part of the reason I gardened and raised chickens was to supplement our diet because raising kids is expensive :) I am now disabled and unable to to much but I still dream of being able to garden and have chickens again..Lord willing I will as I am only 66.
THIS is so helpful! Just bought 12 acres and got 6 chickens and 6 ducks. Trying not to make the same mistake!
You're totally made for making these videos and helping us all out! You're an awesome teacher! :) thank you for your time! Beautiful garden!!! Very inspiring!!
"....and that's when we learned to butcher chickens." 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣
Oh my gosh, I about fell out of my chair! I found that absolutely hilarious!!!
I could only imagine how annoying that would be😂
YES!!! That actually made me laugh out loud!!
Im stunned. Hilarious? Having to kill animals that you've raised and cared for is not funny. It's heartbreaking. If you had to shoot your dog because her back was broken to put her out of her misery, would that be hilarious? Obviously, you've never had to cull your animals.
Kathi Gregory, really? It wasnt about laughing about that. The explanation and admission of learning through bad regretable mistakes as we all do in our lives was an acknowledgment of all our fowlability and shame over it. And people make jokes about slaughtering meat to eat anyway because it isnt that anyone relishes it unless they are insane. Most people eat meat and it is more honest to admit killing your food than to pretend it doesnt happen.
If we all faced up to our pain about each thing we had to do we would be crumpled over and never get out of bed. Wrong? Probably. That is why many people ask for forgiveness from Higher Power. Or become vegan for thirteen years without knowing how to do it without harming health.
If you say we should exhibit more direct compassion more often then okay but you cant presume to know who has been through what and insinuate that people like the mistakes that harm others just because they are mocking their own stupidity and the fact that realizing ones stupidity is also a learning and sharing event.
I figure most balled their eyes out over the situations that they go through and afterwards learn forgiveness but not fully so laugh to keep from crying all over again or staying furious over it like most of us would at the mistakes we make if we didnt have coping mechanisms. And we try not to make the mistakes again.
If this stuns you, dont ever go to a wake. Or a roast.
The Home Plate Special , Im a bit confused. You said "it wasn't laughing about that". If you mean the video, I agree. Hard lessons shared to help others. I was responding to other people's comments with their laughing face emojis. It's never funny to have to slaughter your animals, whether it is for the cause to put meat on the table or because they are sick. I've had to slaughter a flock because they were sick. It was terrible. I just don't see anything funny about that.
My dad converted an old school bus that was on his property into a wonderful chicken coop that functioned great!
She has totally inspired me, I just built 2 raised beds and planted my first fall garden in our urban backyard. Here's to starting small but actually starting!
Yay! I love hearing that!
A dream is just a dream without working daily to make it a reality. One step at a time and you eventually get there if you don’t give up. No one can take it away if you want it bad enough.
How did it go and what are you going to do this spring? ♥️♥️
@T'pol Trek I've certainly learned a lot! Lettuce and cabbage grew well, carrots too. We've been composting our kitchen and yard waste to amend the soil, which has been great. Unfortunately, once the leaves come in the spring we have too much shade in our yard! Looking for partial shade varieties.
@@mydailyreward2090 It 's trial and error, lettuce and cabbage grew! Right now I have peas, squash, corn, tomatoes, peppers, spinach and onions growing. Time will tell!
Thank you for your willingness to share your regrets and your encouragement to experiment despite fear of failing.
"Fear will not sustain it"-so true. Your videos are always so though provoking for me. It is so easy to be focused on those further along in the journey that I often forget how much in my couple year that I have to share with those just starting. So grateful that you have taken the time to share...and 4 yrs is actually 20 when using chicken math.
Watch this video over again tonight. Seemed to need the topic. Amazing how wisdom never ages. Thank you.
6 months ago the idea of starting a homestead became a very realistic goal, and I have been obsessing over it ever since. I have been watching videos, reading books, and I even have a few small raised beds in my backyard that I've been practicing in. However, I have chronic depression. There are some days that I struggle to even take care of my children. My motivation and energy are an exhausting roller coaster. I was wondering if you or anyone you know has these issues. It is my hope of hopes that maybe the sunshine and challenge of a small homestead could help break me of my fatigue, but I worry that the fear of not being able to care for it will keep me from achieving it.
I suffer from major depression also. I have the same dream and fear. I just got chickens 17weeks ago. I have raised beds. I quess this is the networking Jes was speaking of. I'm here if you ever want to talk or text. Lorilozanopta@gmail.com.
Peeka Bewm I hope the sunshine and nature helps! I’ve battled with depression and anxiety all my life, so I totally relate and empathize with your struggle. Especially trying to be there for kids. You aren’t alone! 💕
I have found gardening to be a form of therapy. It got me through the grief of my husband passing away suddenly in March. There is something about digging in the dirt that is very grounding. There is hope in gardening, that little seed you plant is going to become a huge plant with food you can eat, all because of the effort and love and care you put into it! Get your kids involved too!
Peeka Bewm I had a simillar struggle. I started by - stopping drinking tap water and only filteted, reverse osmosis and eliminating the chemicals and flouride. Then started growing in pots and planters. Stopped eating prefab market foods that are chemicals and really not anything my body knew what to do with, ler alone use to nourish me. Now everything is turned around, no energy issues or depression struggle. Much love and blessings to you and your family.
Peeka,
The key is to keep things small for awhile. There are a lot of ways to automate things so upkeep isn't so consuming. Chickens are great because you can be as involved as you want to be. Gardening can be very relaxing and therapeutic as long as you keep things manageable. I'm not sure how old your kids are but there are a lot of chores on a homestead that are kid friendly. You would be surprised what those little hands can do if we let them. A homestead is different for everyone and the great thing is we can each make ours unique to our needs and abilities. Prayers to you😀
We got started before we were ready and before we knew it, we were addicted. We ended up with over 800 birds within the first 2 years. Chickens, ducks, geese, guineas, and turkeys....It's easy to get in above your head!!!
What a marvelous speech. Wow! You really have command of the language and you deliver your message in such an inspirational way.
I love your vids and I have learned so much from you. Thanks.
Jesse you should consider community leadership. You are such a good speaker. Thank you for sharing.
First things first, your hair look great! That being said, we call out homestead "Rough-Hewn" because we do what you're suggesting...convert things for other uses....use inexpensive materials for projects....go small-er scale to begin with...cut back or wait on things, etc. There's a lot of wisdom in this video! God bless!
Thankyou again. You are so right about fear. It’s so easy to doubt your dream ❤️bless you 😇
It’s exactly what I am going through, I want so much to live this and leave the rat race so much, I just don’t know how to start
Alfredo Diaz Sounds like your first step would be to commit to doing it. Maybe deciding to buy a small house with an acre to start. Wishing you the best!!
Thank you! Especially for your message about fear. 🙌 So good.
Jess, the information you give - the wonderful personal experiences you share - are just so valuable to me
Jess you should be a public speaker, your that inspiring. I know you're shy but you have a talent. Your vlogs whether it's General inspiration and information or spiritual Journeys are really inspiring and my favorites. You have a way that makes folks feel that they've known you forever and can trust your opinions you are truly a blessing to Folk's. Never underestimate yourself you bring a lot to the table. Thank you
Jess is a public speaker. She holds church in her home and you know she has a bit to say.
Thank you Hoss! I've done some speaking, and as Cliff commented as well, we do have a home church, though that looks less like public speaking and mroe like family. Thank you for your comment, I really appreciate you taking the time to encourage me!
Hoss She really has a sweet way about her. Not a bossy know-it-all or silly. Just very personable.
I know. I wish I could attend their church. I think the best of their family.
Y’all bless me so much!
Love your videos....i am a new farmer that just bought a 4.5 acre farmland and your videos has been a great help to me.👍👍👍 watching this all the way from Fiji islands 🏖🏝🏞🌏🌅
Hey Lady, love what you're doing. I'm retired, 64, living with my best friend and wife. I had 12 acres in Seale Alabama. Had a few chickens and a small garden. When I retired we decided to move close to Atlanta to be closer to the kids grandkids and great grandkids. I was sure the small farm life I loved was over. God bless my wife Lyn. She found us 3 ,1/2 acres with a small barn and a workshop. Last year after watching your videos, I built a couple of raised beds from old metal garage door panels. Back in November I built a chicken coop like the ones Carolina coops sells. We now have 17 chickens. From McMurray, they really are a good company. This year I'll put in more beds. It was so wonderful last year having the 2 and 3 year olds helping pick tomatoes and bell pepper. Then coming in and eating what we just picked. I just wanted to thank you for helping us get back into gardening. What you're doing really is important.
I wish I started earlier as well but last year I decided I can grow my own veggies at least in my small townhouse garden. The first seed planting was a disaster mostly though inexperience but the weather was also unusually hot for months, which was not good for unprotected seedlings. Once I realised I would have a zero crop from my seeds, I was so discouraged, but that lasted about a week, so I went to a reputable nursery and got seedlings at a very good price and filled up my raised beds and I am still harvesting, even though I lost some of those as well through them bolting in the heat. But I learned that they grow better in cooler weather so I have prepared and have seedlings now I am going to plant soon for Autumn. Being an avid follower of a couple of homesteaders, I have learned so much. I never thought of an autumn/winter garden but have quite a variety of seedlings I will transplant soon and in April my garlic will be planted. We have mild winters, so I will see how long I can keep crops alive. I am so glad I just started and am learning and am experimenting as the veggies from my garden tastes so much better it has astounded me! So yes, overcome the fear, but baby steps and ask questions and do not be afraid to try. Oh and a last thing, do NOT sow all your seeds, but keep some for later just in case ;-)
"Fear can't sustain it. It has to be passion." So true for everything in life.
Love the tip about doing what you can on a small scale. The house we are in doesn’t have nearly enough space to grow as much as I’d like to do eventually. But I’m doing what I can now! Two apple trees, two plum trees, six blueberry bushes, a vegetable garden...
Such good advice, at 73yrs. I look back at a time where we keep three large gardens, canned, pickled and froze a great deal of food for ourselves and extended family. My in-laws were so knowledgable about all aspects of living off the land, while not homesteading, they combined farming, small stock keeping, fruit trees and utilized wild plants. We helped other family members maintain their livestock, so our freezer was full of beef, we made cider and fruit jams, we allowed a bee keeper in our orchard for honey. Clearly community and family provided all we really needed! And it was fun, because we did it together!
Alice Jump And working with your hands producing all those wonderful things with love. That is a good life. 🙏
Blessed by God and you did the real work of humanity..the good life.
Love you
At 73 just a baby. I'm 78. 5 years ago I became divorced and retired. I now own a small patch of heaven in the Free State of South Africa. I've planted fruit trees and am trying to grow vegetables that will see me through Climate Change, as I'm planning to live to 150. I started with a few township chickens that roam the village. Three are sitting on eggs. If I'm not outside then I'm looking at stuff like this inspirational Root and Refuge Lady.
I'm watching this in July of 2021. I just watched your house get delivered to SC. Thank you so much for teaching me that it's okay to dream! I'm so happy that all your dreams are coming true!
Love it! I’m 13 and my family and I really want to move back out there to have our own homestead/farm. We live in a smaller sized town in southern Ontario Canada, and we grow our own food in our garden. Our yard is very small with our pool, fire pit and deck, so we don’t have much room to garden without getting rid of all of our grass. I love being around animals and used to work at a friends house just to enjoy the farming environment. All in all, we really want to start over in a new home away from society to enjoy our lives living the way we want. Thanks for this video it’s very inspiring
You’ll do big things Abbi! Keep dreaming!
I'm from southern Ontario too! We just added a few raised bed. Now we can learn how to grow on a small scale before our dream homestead!
Thank you so much...YOU do an absolutely wonderful video...Never doubt yourself ! Your knowledge is stupendous!
"The point of homesteading is to get away from the pressure." Amen! I love this advice. I am the type to get carried away with things out of excitement too so I'm glad to hear your advice cause it is helping to ground me
I've searched for gardening videos and you are a natural. I like your way of thinking and expressing your thoughts, it is genuine. Thank you for all your videos!
Thank you!!
I agree about community and I just fell into it by accident. I wanted to build raised beds (sounded cool and I did not have to crawl around on my knees) so I googled how to do it and landed up on Doug and Stacy's site and oh my, they opened my eyes for so many things and I gobbled it up. As I was searching for wood in my area, I landed on a site with reclaimed wood, very inexpensive but lovely wood and that was when another light went on. So the story continues. i am such a noobie gardener, I joined an amazing monthly garden club in my area, managed by a woman who does super sustainable organic gardening that just makes sense to me. Got some dud experiences with seeds (from mostly stupidity lol) but still have a nice little veggie garden and still learning :-D. So thanks to you and the few other homesteaders I follow, I am a work in progress and nothing's gonna break my stride :-D
Hi Erika, I was wondering what website you used to buy reclaimed wood?
Erika Cronje 👀
Same!!! I jumped into animals and bees way too soon. Never quite recovered from that ordeal.
The plenty of roosters story is so funny.....that's when we learned to butcher....LOL!
Hilarious!! I wanted to see if anyone laughed about that like me! lol
O heck yeah I laughed pretty hard on that myself lol
Oh YES ditto there!
And to think that people have laughed at me because all I want is 3 hens. There is only my wife and I left now - all the kids are gown, gone and raising their own families. So there's just Sue and me. We don't eat eggs every day so 3 good layers will provide more than enough and I can save the rest in lime-water for the winter months. They'll keep for 6-9 months that way in the pantry. Thank you Jessica for telling me that I'm not nuts for being willing to build for just 3. It's what I want. If that changes down the road I can always adapt. And woha! I saw you pick sunflowers to go feed the hens? I never thought about that! Awesome. We love them for their beauty, but to know I can feed them my flower heads? Very cool!
That is so funny, that would be my luck! 20 roosters! She is so inspiring!
This is THE video to watch if you're thinking of starting to homestead, at whatever level. Thanks so much!
Thanks for sharing, even as a 5th generation homesteader we still make mistakes and so glad you're sharing there's no perfect way to do it and to get started where you are with plans to grow as you can.
That is what I am doing right now...small scale garden in suburbia. I am trying about 10 vegetables this year, with a few herbs. I am also seeing how we can learn how to live with less water, hanging laundry, etc. Little steps. We are 2-3 years out from going all in!
Jess, your last point about fear of bad things happening before I'm set up for homesteading true homesteading is definitely a problem for me. I live in a very small rental house and thankfully my landlord has let me build raises beds. This is my second season to garden and I bought a bunch of canning materials so that i could can what I'm growing. I have never canned before but i have now canned bread and butter pickles which are delicious. I just bought a pressure canner and will be canning tomatoes in the morning. I liked your advice about networking because I don't know anyone that gardens or cans or any of the other skills you need to homestead. I am scared that i won't learn everything i need to learn before I might really need the skills. I really appreciate you doing these videos as i learn a ton from you. You really do bless alot of people by sharing what you are doing. Sorry for the rambling but I just wanted you to know a little bit about the people you are reaching, teaching and blessing each time you do a video. Thank you so much!
Tamara Butterworth We all feel that way❤💕 Just try and have fun and learn as you go. Each year and moment is different and a wonderful teacher.
Thank you so so much ❤️❤️
Tamara Butterworth You have inspired me sweetie girl, I am checking out canning bread which I never heard of in my 65 years. Thanks so much!! Margie Guy.
“Hanging with the Guys”
#1 Ya don't need to pressure can 🍅. Hot water bath method is just fine. Pressure can for your low acid things like beans, squash and meats. This has always is just been a way of life for me....Amish country. If you need any advice (I'm not an expert) just ask.
Wonderful words spoken! I liked the rambling ; )
thank you for all your advice . we have been doing this 40 years in north ga. and we are learning so much new ways of doing things.
I love that. "Fear always overplays its hand."
Great videos! You advised people to learn skills while you wait for your farm dream to be fulfilled. My family just bought an acre to have a mini farm. In the planning stages, we got chickens, already had a pet pig. We had skills such as gardening, canning, cooking from scratch, making soap, building structures, sewing, solar power, and much more. It has made a world of difference as we set up our farm. And we are still working full time.
Thank you from our Farmstead!!!
Like you, we love gardening and helping others get things done EASIER! 😊😊😊 Thanks! Robbie
Thank you so much for sharing such awesome information. I am becoming more serious about growing my own food and am so excited for this planting season. I have been binge watching your channel on the rainy days. Ready to get my hands in the dirt!!
In order to grow, change is required.
In order to change, unfamiliar choices are required.
In order to make unfamiliar choices, faith is required.
In order to be faithful, repetition is required.
Faith + Repetition = Victory
Faith is being sure of what we hope for, and certain of what we do not see.
this was beautifully said.....
Hebrews 11:1
replace faith with risk and you have my attention.
Amen!
Very, very cool!
You are so honest and uplifting! So very smart for such a young woman. It's called life sweetheart! Live and learn. Oooh bless your sweet learning heart! God bless you 💕
wonderful, so informative, agree on the networking. Very fortunate to have 1/2 acre in wonderful sub tropical Australia. We downsized from 5 acres in retirement and moved a small distance to better soil/climate. Rich soil, great rain and so MANY people with ideas and knowledge in our semi-rural area. We have a central food exchange, a shed on one of the properties, where we drop in excess for anyone where we swap for free, we post what we dropped off on the closed facebook group. It can be from poo bags, eggs to pumpkins, preserves, greens, honey ( I keep bees. ) The honour system is working because we are all accountable on social media and in real life. We all benefit We have organically evolved a rich, knowledgeable, bartering community. God Bless.
This sounds amazing!! We're urban with chickens, ducks, 2 mini pet pigs (rescued), 3 dogs, 3 garden areas and some indoor gardens. I love the idea of doing more trading... I belong to a clothing swap group, so maybe that's a way for me to start a share group!
I love this! Life is a learning lesson, I want to tell my kids!
“Animals are the cheapest part about owning animals” you took the words right out of my mouth
Lol I said similar when my husband offered to buy me a horse. He has NO IDEA the cost to maintain them
Oooo! Your thoughts on fear masquerading as wisdom, right on! Thanks for sharing that insight!
It's good to be flexible regarding housing of livestock, but never scrimp on predator proofing! Otherwise you can lose everything you've worked so hard for...almost overnight!
Ingrid I laughed so hard when she said “and that’s when we learned to butcher chickens.” 😂😂
My whole family adores you and we have started watching your videos together. I didn't realize you only had 4 acres. I have three. I would LOVE to see a video on how you have laid out your homestead so far. How big is your raised bed area? Where are your chickens and goats, your house and greenhouse?
Agreed!! I’d love to see a sketch or something from an overhead view.
Every house I've owned in the city has had a garden by the time I moved. My last one was a great selling point. It was only 5 feet by 20 feet, but in a perfect location and hugely productive. Prospective buyers were encouraged to pick the tomatoes. Now I'm working on my own 5 acre dream. Not ready for chickens yet, but that will happen eventually.
Just starting our "farming" journey in our back yard... and this was the BEST thing I have heard in all my research. I have wanted to farm since I was a young woman and now that I am in my 40's with four children I am finally getting started. I am so excited and this was really great wisdom. Thank you, Jess!
Right there with you! 35 and just getting started finally here too.
I loved raising turkeys and found it as easy as raising chickens, regardless of what people say. My recommendation is, you need to have them graze during the day. They are furious eaters and will eat you out of house and home if you are purchasing feed alone. They are sweet animals and I sure enjoyed them.
Hi Jess, I this was done 2 years ago. I would love to see if you have done another video like this in 2020 and how has your experience changed the things you would do over. God Bless you and your beautiful family. You inspire me everyday to continue planting and being excited about future plans to grow plants and take care of our wonderful chickens.
You had my mind blown alteady with the gardening advice, I’ve never found such a valuable fountain of resources about anything ever on RUclips. But what you said at the end of this video was so, so wise and it hit home. I have left my top management career to move to a village, become a woodworker and have a little farm. I was afraid for so long but it’s time. I am so greatful for you. Hugs from Transylvania.
I bought the blueberry gold, blueberries, napa chardonnay, and the big sungold from wild boar farms. I don't have enough room to do them all at once but I definitely want to grow as much as I can in my apartment complex. I love gardening and the relationship I have felt has grown with God because I really feel like he's really close there..idk. But I love watching your life and am blessed to get to know you and your beautiful family. I wish I could have a chance to have such a great life and hope it's something God will give me one day too! 😄 you are an inspiration!
Fear can masquerade as wisdom. Thank you!
Thank you for this video! So glad I watched this. We just begun for the first time. Started by planting some veggie seeds in our kitchen. And we got 3 goats and our GLD. Instead of rushing into chickens, we're easing into it. And will get there eventually. Need to build a chicken coop first. Also hubby built us raised garden beds framed by trees he cut down.
Again thanks for your video! So encouraging and inspiring and sensible!
Gosh we love your videos! You’re such a good speaker. Sounds weird but this is your jam!
Maine Garden Travels h
I Yvonne
Thank you so much!
"Not you, opal, You're a good deal" ♡
Thanks for these videos. Your presentation is grounding and practical. Good work.
You are so calming to listen to and you make me not feel quite so stupid 🤪. I wish you would do a worship video day. I get so much listening to you. I know like you have extra time. Thanks for everything from NC
I’m so glad to hear it Lynn!
I feel like there's a Portlandia sketch about the couple who track down the local farmer who sources their food at the restaurant precisely for this reason. I mention this because I'm considering moving from NYC to Oregon and watching videos like this haha :)
please do a video on sunflowers tips and tricks!
Opel is looking at me like "what? You don't think I'm a good deal?" Not you Opel. I wasn't talking about you. Your a good deal! 🤣🤣🤣
You have me. Liked and subscribed! ❤️❤️❤️
I love how u said I'll never go overboard again- with chickens... lmao.
You're a great teacher. I'm a city girl, but I have the dream and will one day have a Homestead and maybe a YT channel too. Best of blessings.
"20 of them were roosters. We had a big crowing issue. That's when we learned how to butcher." L.O.L.
Yeah, that was good! lol
Thank you for sharing your hard won realities with me. My wife and I are aspiring to the goal of being self sustaining someday. Right now we live in the city of Pittsburgh in a house with a small yard. A few years now we are experimenting with sprouting baker creek seeds (along with stuff like potatoes from the grocery store), composting, learning about poultry, as well as bee keeping. You are so right, about starting small and experimenting. We are being patient and coming to realize what it is we want as well as what motivates us. I now know it’s not fear. Great advice🌈😃🤙 about being honest with yourself.
Do you know why so many people "get" what you're saying? I believe the Father is calling His people back to the land. Truly. We moved 900 miles 5 months ago to do this very thing. To learn how to garden and how to take care of chickens. To sew and to can and to enjoy the Father's Creation. It took me 3 months to find steady work here. I am planning a spring garden... We didn't have the means this spring or summer and with fall coming, I've had to buy a woodstove and have to worry about having enough firewood. I was buying cereal and milk on credit cards because my grand daughters and son still needed to eat, job or no job. Now I am paying for that !! This time will be used to pay down the debt of moving and we will be able to move forward. Its Hard to be patient. By next year I hope to have 6 or 8 hens and ONE roo. I have to ease into it all and I am Not ready for butchering. I'd like two goaty girls for milk, but I refuse to have any farm animals until I am Sure we can be safe about it. Your wise words are encouraging.
Debby Tomlinson I absolutely believe He is calling people to this life!!!
Hi Debby, I am so glad Jess said comments are so good for people to share, because that is how I learn, too. Not just from the vid, but from the comments under the vid. I really resonate with your comment that Father is calling out so many of us to do this. I am proud that you took the courage to do this. He does not call the equipped, but equips the called. I pray your efforts prosper and you come out of that debt soon.
I agree, I was called out of the city 2 states away is where I ended up. I knew nothing about this type of life. Do you know my mom came here and said oh my, do you know that you were conceived on this road! lol What are the odds? So I guess I’m home.
Oh good grief! What kind of god gives you a child then takes them away at the age of 18! "Father" doesn't give a eff! He/it left it to us and moved on.
Because of this video, I understand that making mistakes make us human. The takeaway is that I should just get in there and try.
6:23 "That's when we learned to butcher chickens" LMAO
I JUSt found your channel and Im bingewatching your videos :-) SUCH a blessing that you decided to share your knowledge and experience with everyone, thanks! Love from New Mexico
I just found your channel and I have been watching/listening all day. Keep up the good work!
My first real experience with chickens I had about 150, head... LOL
So ya I know about jumping into head first with chickens. I so miss having THEM. We will have some here SOON.
I think after this epidemic, LOTS of people will begin farming...myself included lol
Keep the content cominggggg
That's why I'm here! 😅🙋♀️ well sort of. We just bought our first home at the beginning of the year and I knew I'd want to start a garden and grow some food eventually but the pandemic definitely lit a fire under my butt.
@E Cox Great idea
Love all this so much! Working on my small forest garden and enjoy every video.
- Fellow gardening Arkansan and mom of many
Thank you! I just love your videos. I’ve been dreaming of having a farm for over a decade and just this year I finally put in a garden at our house. Still in town but I came to the realization that I need to do what little I can where I’m at. It’s definitely an experiment having 3 black walnut trees in our back yard, I’m thinking raised beds next year and a shade cloth to protect the garden from the falling half eaten walnut husks. They literally burn holes through my plants. And I think I’ll take over some of the front yard next year too 😊 Again thank you for your insight and inspiration! Sending love from Kansas ❤️
Yes I too had black walnut trees on 3 sides of my house. I had them cut down and hauled to way to the back of my property. Nightshade plant toast when planted near where black walnut was for next ~5 years. Sunflowers, beans, Corn, not peas!, and more can grow where black walnut has grown or is growing. I created a file on my computer on what plants can tolerate juglone. Here in TN
Love all this so much! Working on my small forest garden and enjoy every video.
- Fellow gardening Arkansan and mom of many
This is the third time I have watched this video, and each time I find something new that I needed to hear. Thank you for this video, it is such a blessing!
As always I love to see my bell tell me I have a new video from you. I dream of what you speak of. I have my allowed 6 hens and raised beds. I need out of this city but I'm working with what I got. You inspire me. Thank you.
big4metalbabe Great job and wonderful start😉
Blue Eye Lathers would you go off the grid???
Love all this so much! Working on my small forest garden and enjoy every video.
- Fellow gardening Arkansan and mom of many
You are awesome young lady... I am so pleased I found (stumbled upon) you... If we don't do we don't learn...
What an amazing story! You are an amazing speaker!!
I think homesteaders are largely composed of people who love to learn new things. At 53 I am still trying new things as my children roll their eyes. Stay strong!
Jean
MJ Guck never stop learning. It keeps the mind strong and happy.
So glad I found this channel. I might be coming into some land and I've always loved the idea of homesteading. This information was really insightful. I wish you and your family all the best and really appreciate what you do.
Second time watcjing this... haha JESS PUT THOSE SHEARS DOWN...you talk with your hands like I do...lol Do No poke or stab yourself.."Step 1 in Homesteading"
Hahahaha I know it drove me crazy while I edited
We have been offgrid for more than 15 years, I was blessed to grow up country, almost off grid... your video is excellent! Well done
Jess, we only have a half acre. It's been our "experimental" property. Lol! We bought 4 chickens and have a 10 x 10 garden. We knew that we had to practice before jumping into a 15-20 acre tract! In the next couple of years we'll take the plunge and probably move to Missouri from Texas. The information you are giving is priceless!
Watching this video for the second time. So much good info and it’s nice to learn things from someone who is passionate about what they’re teaching.
Im 43 and have wanted to do what u do all my life have no clue how to start and fear of failing i guess is alot of what has stopped me.
Angela Conley unless you make mistakes, you’ll never learn. Fear of failure is what keeps most people from trying most things. Sure, things could go wrong. But what if things went right? Don’t be afraid to fail. Just don’t stop trying until you succeed 💜
@@KellyLoom1s thank you
Angela Conley I just made a horrible mess of trying to craft my own trellis. 😕 Honestly all I can do is laugh at my attempt and try again tomorrow. 💜 I wish you the best of luck!
I'm 42, just took a big loan to buy a piece of land; I never dared to do this in the past but once in a life time..
Angela Conley if an opportunity came up, would you go for it???