Life doesnt end until it stops, and that can be when you're 21 or 101. Nah, never too late to start or work on dreams. And dreams are constantly changing. My mother, 54, likes to say, you bring death closer when you you stop living with dreams. Smart woman!
BeeEarthy Homestead good for you! It feels so good to set on your land by a fire. You will feel a peace come over you. It’s a great feeling knowing you will never be homeless. Definitely go for your dreams. It’s worth it. Leslye
Do it while you are young and able. I had plans to work until I retired and then I was going to do a lot. Then, at 53 I was diagnosed with bone marrow cancer and the doctor said you better start enjoying like because we can’t cure you. The rest of your life will be treatments to stay alive. I’m 56 and I just raft the Grand Canyon last month. I’m trying to buy me some time...don’t wait!
Bobby Fish, I will keep you in my prayers. Cancer sucks! Keep a good attitude, trust in GOD. No one can really say how long we have so go empty that bucket of yours...GOD bless
Bobby Fish I’m in the same boat. I’m 59, and my doctor told me 3 years ago that they couldn’t cure my breast cancer. After 2.5 years of chemo I am doing exceptionally well - my doctor is amazed and I’ve got a 9 month break from chemo! You just never know what God has planned for you. It is wonderful to hear that you are choosing to live life to the fullest! I have a friend who talks about the blessings of cancer (she is on year 12 of the same journey). One of those blessings is that you appreciate every day as the gift that it is. I have had 3 years of gratitude; even when it was bad, it could have been so much worse! I truly believe that this can be the most wonderful time of both of our lives. God bless you!
Darling,you feel like you will run out of time, I am coming up seventy four and I would love to have the years you have left for more adventures! But we have to take time to value and be grateful for what we HAVE done. Health issues are forcing us to leave our homestead but no one can take away the wonderful years including leaky walls, Mold issues cleaning barns at 11 pm after working a full time job all day, losing three goats to a cougar attack, countless chickens lost to mink, bear and dog attacks on the sheep, a horse injured in the fence and the list goes on. However, there are always the ups. Grandchildren loving being here, horse riding in the hills, new farm babies and it goes on and on and every moment worth it. Laughter and tears, it is all part of the journey. Take time and embrace it. God bless
You guys remind me of the story of the two farmers praying for rain. The one farmer prayed and prayed looked up to the sky and waited. The other farmer got out in the field and readied the field for the rain and prayed for the rain and then when the rain came he was ready. ( something like that) It starts with a desire/ dream/ hope. It moves forward with preparation. And yes, pray pray pray. Your DOING it is an inspiration! Thank you for sharing your learning and experience. "TOGETHER"!
I have been debt free for 4 yrs. now. Started saving to purchase land in central Ga. 3yrs. and counting! You guys keep up the awesome work! You are an inspiration to so many!
How did we get to a point where living below your means was so odd? Our grandparents did that as well as most of our ancestors. Everyone is looking at their credit score rather than their ability to live free from debt. I'm not a fan of Dave Ramsey, but he is right about a lot of financial things. I will never go into debt again willingly. Growing up in western NC, it seemed like everyone had at least one side gig. People were building things or generating income some way after their normal job. People would buy some land and just build a basement to live in. You would see these basements all over. Years later, they would build a house on top when they had the money. Friends and family showed up to frame it up and everyone knew someone in all the trades so it was affordable. Now we have to get all sorts of planning permission to build a chicken coop in a lot of areas.
These times are forgotten now. It seems to me to be the best way to live. Getting away from this way of life has been what has caused the financial instability of the world.
You two are such a breath of fresh air to me...I am probably the same age as your parents and it's awesome to see you two raising your children be able to live happily and survive in our unknown future...well done Hollers!
As a sort of footnote for the person who is "afraid I'll be too old by the time it happens". I retired at age 60 and my wife and I relocated onto 20 acres of woodland that we bought about four months before I retired. I'm building our house and our homestead. It's hard work and it's slow going, we're heading into three years and the house foundation isn't in yet - but - Don't think you're "too old" to make it happen ;) Think about what it's going to be when you build it ;)
Being debt free, is such a game changer. We are two years away. Chris is so much more the planner, and dedicated than me. I am impatient, and a "let's do everything now", kind of person, and he reigns me back in. One day, I will make it to the conference, but coming from Florida, it is a long drive. You guys are making huge progress. Looks amazing!
Your place is more and more beautiful all the time ..Good job guys . Im 62 years old you guys have plenty of time but it's going to pass before you know it . I'm so wishing I could be your age again . You're so blessed to have each other working towards the same goals you can do anything. I was invincible until my late fifties with recurring breast cancer my bones ache like crazy taking this medicine but you guys and your friends have been such an inspiration. I planted a fall garden. Just like you working with what I had.
Glad to hear you are playing the guitar. Reading is a great way to relax. I have kids your age, and older. Proud of y'all. So glad to see young people not following the herd. I up and left the U.S in 2002, moved to Ireland. Leaving my family was hard. Now, at 59, I am in transition, at a crossroads. Your message is very much appreciated. Energy goes where attention flows, and I believe we attract blessings by keeping the glass full, not empty. That said, life can be trying. It is how we deal with it that matters. Thanks, guys. Much love. Have fun at the HOA.❤🇨🇮🇺🇸
One thing at a time! The home your building is better, then the home that is already built! You heart is always in the home you building! Love and hugs from Texas!
Have a wonderful time at the Homesteaders Conference and look forward to sharing some of it with you. Stay strong, be brave, you are on the right path - YOUR path! Love from the UK.
I have grown to love your fireside chats. You give such sound and down to earth answers to real valuable questions. Thanks! Your trailer is looking fabulous! You guys have done such a wonderful job revamping a rotting shell. The roof is my favorite color and material! I don't miss a single one of your videos. You guys rock! Thank you.
Agree with BeeEarthy Homestead...You are NEVER too old. I'm 61, debt free now, and looking at properties in Maine near family in New England. One step at a time and enjoy every day of life!
You guys are sorted! Everything you said made complete sense. All the time I was thinking that you don't need to justify yourselves, but actually the way you set out how you have prioritised, assessed, balanced and kept great good humour is in itself a masterclass in how to step outside 'norms'. And make it work. Lovely people!!
I found this thought you would be interested. Edible parts: The lower parts of the leaves can be used in a salad; the young stems can be eaten raw or boiled; the young flowers (cattails) can be roasted. Yellow pollen (appears mid-summer) of the cattail can be added to pancakes for added nutrients.
You both are young enough to accomplish all your goals with homesteading. You are on the fast track now and doing great. I'm proud for you if that helps.
I just want to know how you guys got to be so wise at such a young age. When you are debt free, you no longer are a slave to the system and that truly makes you free. You control your life, what great lessons for those sweet young men. They are watching and learning from you lessons that most adults haven’t gotten. Thanks to the answers to questions! Oh and by the way, why wouldn’t we want to watch you in your daily chores? Don’t we all watch Justin Rhodes milk his cows, move his chickens and feed his sheep every ..single ,,day? And I haven’t missed one episode of Doug and Stacey since I found them. You guys are doing what a lot of people would love to have the courage to do. Ten years ago we became debt free and bought a farm in East Texas but my husband was diagnosed with Parkinson’s and I could not do it all so we sold the farm. You guys are such an inspiration to so many and you give courage to those wanting to leave the rat race. Thank you for the videos you put out. Love them all.
I love, love, LOVE your positivity. You were both raised right and when you have the Holy Spirit in your heart, gratitude is always first. You guys have that and you are thankful for where you are and all you have, and that just lends to positivity. The Lord is blessing you and I am blessed to watch HIM work through you to show all your viewers. Same thing with being debt free.... that, (I believe) comes from the Holy Spirit .... you are being obedient to what you know is right and sharing it. THANK YOU!! God Bless.
Hi Meg and Ben. I'm a suburbanite from northern Virginia, and going to HOA because it's within reasonable driving distance from my home. I am a homestead fantasizer rather than homesteader, but I hope to learn more about things I can do like improve my back yard garden, preserve food, etc. And hopefully have real-live conversations with some of you all who are really doing it -- a step beyond watching RUclips videos. :) I hope to meet you there! -Jodi
Yup... being debt-free IS the answer. We had our house built in stages... doing what we could ourselves. With our 4 boys that was an adventure. We kept saying... "some day we'll look back at all this and have a good laugh." So.. NOW we're laughing but it took some hard work and a lot of 'doin without'... but MAN... was it worth it. Yup... one step at a time gets you there. You Hollars have The Best attitude. That is the most important ingredient.
Along with other young couples such are yourselves, YOU 2 are truly an inspiration and hope for our future. Honestly, I HAVE TO follow these types of channels to mitigate my fears for my grandkids' futures. Thank you for putting up with me. Best of success and God Bless....Eli.
Y'all are legit - love it. Thanks for the amazing content. I've been on a homesteading video binge for the past few days and while I'm disappointed not to find anyone who resembles myself, I'm extremely grateful and blessed to have access to wonderful creators like you guys, Roots and Refuge, Sow the Land and so many others who are sharing your skills and experiences. God bless you! And if you know of any homesteaders near Fayetteville with a YT channel or who are willing to share some advice, please drop their info. Thank you!
Omgorsh I love you guys so much!! Do your kids ever fight, they're always so well behaved..... The look on your faces was priceless!! He's breathing... Agghhh lol Y'all rawk!! Warms my heart to see you prosper and grow your family and homestead. Love the love you have for each other. Peace and blessings!! :)
Love the fact of meeting at bible study. Way to be centered in faith in marriage. Can’t wait to see y’all at HOA. Homeschoolers also! Thanks for this fun video.
Deck cheap. Go to a mobile home park. When people move out many can't take there deck with them. Disassemble # boards and take pictures take it home and reassemble. FREE LUMBER.
I rattled around in my early days, until my mid 20's, with stupid low-paying jobs, until I met my first husband. Then we started a band that was mainly country, new country, country rock and rock and roll (older rock and roll, dance music, so to speak). This was late 1970's, and that band, Nightingale, got very popular here in Vermont, played all the bars, made a 45 record, and made a lot of money. Then the band and husband melted down, and I joined another band, met my 2nd husband after awhile, and he and I started a lawncare business, played in the band, sometimes had our mowers AND our music equipment stacked up in the back of our pick-up truck when we were working both jobs in the same area! Husband 2 went the way of all things, but I paid my mortgage and ran my farm with those side jobs, and music has been my main gig for almost 40 years. At 73, I don't often get up anymore and sing in front of an audience, but I totally understand what you are talking about. I couldn't live another way, have a regular 9-5 job, so getting out from under crushing debt is numero uno. Dolly Parton was right: "Working 9 to 5, that's no way to make a living, barely getting by with all taking and no giving..." Thanks for your thoughtful video, guys!
We LOVE the way you have managed this Q&A...so many times others make it into this ponderous thing with it's own life and it takes over the Dialogue...Good Job, keep on keepin on.
Yes it is amazing what you have, Homesteading wise and Partnership wise. You both are early 30s and that is when I was originally farmsteading. Now I'm about to turn 70 and STILL farmsteading. We garden, we hay, we log, we raise grass fed beef. To be 31 again... You have the potential at your feet. Maybe we Original Mother Earthers were a crazy lot, but we had the blueprint for living off the land. Elliot Coleman is still going strong in Maine. Please check out his life and books. You can do it!
I think rebuilding your mobile home is the best decision you could make. You have a shell and you are beefing up the frame. It will be much better and more sturdy. Also, you will know everything about your mobile home and be able to feel peaceful about it. And I personally believe that living in a smaller home is better for families because it makes you interact with one another, and you always know what your kids are up to. I know your audience is curious and wanting to know, and that is fine, but I am enjoying sitting back and watching what you bring to the table. You will get done what you need to do in the time it takes you. It is exciting to watch your life unfold as it unfolds. And yes, it is true...you are regular people just like the rest of us. :-) Love and blessings to you both along with your family and homestead.
You two are at a perfect age to be doing this. You are wiser, with more life experiences to handle it , emotionally. Hell a lot of people are still building homes into there 80's just for hobbies. One step a day and pray.
This type of life aint easy. We started our food forest last year on three acres. Also, have a freshwater creek. We had home repairs that needed to be done just like you guys. I'm a disabled Vet and its hard to move around sometimes, but channels like yours keep my motivation up. Next year we're planning for chickens and or ducks. Stay motivated guys and get those perennials in.
I just wanted to jump in and let you know how much I enjoy your channel and following your journey. Being single and at an age where I couldn't physically do what you're doing, I can still grow a small garden, dehydrate, can etc. I realized it doesn't have to be an all or nothing deal..I can live part of the dream anyway. Thanks for your inspiration, blessings to you and your family ❤
You have a beautiful family and wonderful attitude to life. I am astonished that you sometimes have more views on an episode than you have subscribers. I wish more people would click that button.
I agree with all you are saying about the goals you have. My husband was 42 and I was 33 when we decided to get out of debt using Crown ministries budget plan that was 35 years ago and we haven't regretted it for a moment we own 2 homes paid for. I started last month to teach a life skills class at our local pregnancy resource center and am praying I can help these families to become financially stable if not debt free. So many family problems are caused by mismanaged finances. Please say a prayer for the families in my class>
Yes! I will be at the conference. I am so excited to meet you both as well as others that I follow on RUclips. Can't wait! This will be my first conference. I love your attitude about life! You are so right on!! Debt free and one day at the time. Rock on!!
You never know how much time you have. My second son died at 30. I thought I was not going to live past 16 yrs when I was younger. Now I am going to be 73. My husband and I just moved to a ranch to live on 2 yrs ago. I am just trying to grow trees and vegetables. We do have 4 chickens and some worms. Still looking forward. You are great people and are about the same age as my Grandchildren.
you guys are adorable.... you are so far ahead of the game ... the kids are only a few years from young adults. You are eating healthy. You're enjoying clean air. And you ARE debt free. And you are using your talents wisely. there was no internet in the 80s when I was your age I was clueless. 😆
I bet your glad to be out of Northern California. I just heard they are shutting off power for up to a week for several counties do to high winds. I think you did the right thing on the house vs. trailer thing. You will have a place to live if and when you decide to fix up the farm house. Plus you will have a place for company to visit if you do move into the farm house. My husband and I are in our 60's and planning to move to Alaska and start a new homestead.........YOUR NEVER TOO OLD!!!
Keep your positive attitude!! You will go a long way!! God gives you the daily strength! Attack one problem at a time! Don't get discouraged!! Rome wasn't built in a day! Be faithful! God bless you and your family!!
I want to add I am a single woman, 63.5 and I plan to homestead when I retire in 1.5 years at 65, so you are never too old to homestead if that is your dream. I hope to be homesteading for the next 20-30 years. I found my land after the Homesteaders Conference last year and closed on it on 12/28/18. I bought 2.19 acres near Berkeley Springs, WV. There are a lot of available properties there for very reasonable prices for those of you still looking for a homestead. My property is close to another homesteader I met last year at Homesteaders of America, and I have great neighbors who have helped me a lot on the projects I have done so far. I also bought a prebuild Amish Cabin, 336 sq feet, which was delivered on 3/10/19. I have been working on it this year, painting the inside and getting a fence up so my dogs can visit the farm. I planted a few trees and a few flowers. I still have a lot to do but I am on the journey too. I need to add the well, septic, and electric. I hope to have everything up and running by the time I am ready to move there in 2021. Things take longer since I am still working full time, and the weather is a factor in accomplishing some tasks. It was too hot to work on painting most of the summer with no fan or A/C. I have finished priming the inside of the cabin and have finished half of the final white coat on the walls. I am leaving the ceiling and beams wood colored. There are so many steps to take and decisions to make to reach each goal. I agree with your advice to just keep working at it a little at a time and take breaks.
We are in our 60s starting over and finally got our farm and starting to get animals and starting a garden. Yes we may run out of time before it's all done but you know what we are enjoying every moment of it day by day. It's never too late. You always have something to stress over so just take one day at a time one hour at a time and just do what you can and enjoy the rest of your life. I wouldn't change it for anything.
While I was growing up all the adults outside the family ( ie church, school, the grocery, neighbors) would tell my grandparents how well behaved we children were, how nice and polite we were.....grandma would smile and say thank you and tell us "if you can't be bad at home, where can you be bad"? she was proud of us and that was here way of saying thank you. lol
I am excited to meet you guys at HOA! We moved to a VERY run down 51.5 acre farm 6 years ago when I was 47 and my husband was 44. It's never too late! It has been much more work than we could have ever imagined and also much joy! We are often tempted to look at financial things and "retirement" age looming and question whether we should be doing this, but we always come back to yes.
You could always do it so there's a 2-3 minute part at the end of each video where you pick a question or topic of question to answer. Just a thought of a little thing you could do!
Plant corn in blocks. It is wind pollinated and it's more about the corn being pushed against each other by the wind rather than just wind blowing the pollen. I was the only person in the neighbourhood that a decent crop. Try it, you'll like it! :-)
You two and Justen inspired me to get chickens and sell the eggs. I now have 15 layers and another 15 that are a week old. It’s a hobby that pays for its self and thin some and I sell out every week!
I think y'all's timing was perfect! I say this because most of us can admit we weren't responsible enough to really put effort into a dream this big in our early 20s. Some could and do...but I know I needed to grow up and earn some battle scars. On the flip side...I decided to start living my homestead dream one year ago at the age of 42. Aside from my wife and kids the farm is my everything, but what I wouldn't give to have a body that was 10 years younger. Your timing is perfect for the channel too. I have fun with my channel (a lot of fun) but I think the vast majority of RUclips viewers related much better to the "born in the 80s" crowd. So...just keep pushing because your timing couldn't have been better.
Oh one thing.. my #3 son could be Bens twin, except he's had a buzz cut since ~8 and he is 26 now... He's a knife maker, metal worker, and nubie welder. Put it on hold a bit to build a 40 foot container shop and a tiny home on our property. Learning as he goes....
I,m 62 and my wife is in her (younger than me lol) years. We have a homestead we named Melody Acres. We started our homestead one year ago, and are building our home ourselves, so you are definately not out of time yet. Just do one day at a time and let the Lord do the worrying.
It cost $5500 to get my dad's trailer hauled away and we were lucky to find that guy. Mobile homes depreciate. The farmhouse will only appreciate in value the more you work on it. You guys are on the right track.
I like that... Live like no one else now so you could live like no one else later! It's nice to see you guys having the courage to live out what has inspired you. That inspires everyone else! Thank you and Godspeed! ❤️
Being an older guy I am proud of you two trying to be debt free. There's so many advantages to this goal. I taught my 30 and 26 year old girls that debt free living and they actually listen to me. Our society is free and capitalistic. You have to be an individual with goals and avoid temptation of too much debt. To many people live for instant gratification. Your Homestead is a long and hard working gratification that money can't buy. Good work! and a great lesson for your boys.👍
Wanted to meet and talk with you so badly at the HOA conference this weekend but there were always so many people waiting! Next year for sure. Thank you for the wonderful adventure you've begun. You're an inspiration for me to fight harder for my dream of leaving the city and starting my forever homestead! I homestead as much as you can in the Metro Detroit area working around all the nonsense laws and ordinances. Originally from a family farm and cattle ranch in Central FL.
I love what you're doing. We have also been very intentional with our money for years. Last year we got completely debt free, including the house, and never going back. Being debt free provides so many opportunities to shape life according to your own wishes. A factor that I believe is very, very important is for couples to be in agreement and work towards the same goals.
My kids and I absolutely love you guys we just recently got internet so we have been watching your journey on our tv which doesn’t allow for comments or notifications so I thought we would let you know that you’re inspiring us to start making preparations to move towards homesteading
Awesome video. Y'all did a great job answering as many questions as you could. I think that Y'all are doing a great job. I know that sometimes it gets discouraging, but the way Y'all are handling it is awesome. One day at a time, One thing at a time. God Bless Y'all.
This video is beautifully edited! I loved Ben's drone footage, the music and of course the Q&A. It felt like we were sitting down having a visit together. You two are so relatable, friendly and easy going. You never cease to put a smile on my face and warm my heart, so thank you for that. I'm looking forward to the HoA conference vlogs (I hope you are vlogging some of it?) I found your channel about 2 months ago and have watched every one of your videos. Of all the channels that I have clicked on the bell so I get notifications, yours are always the ones I try to watch asap. Thank you once again for letting us in to see a glimpse of your lives. You are some of my favourite people that I've never met! xo Heather 🇨🇦
Your place is looking fantastic.......Look at how far you have come not how far you have to go when you feel overwhelmed. You MUST take time for yourselves.
Thanks for taking the time to give me my Hollar fix before you head out. How do you stay positive? One big way is to surround yourself with positive people. You guys help me stay positive. 😊❤️. Much love and good wishes from your home town.
The place looks so amazing from when you started. Keep up the good work. Baby steps. We did Dave Ramsey also. January of this year we were debt free and was starting to build the 3-6 months Emergency fund and the truck died. So we did what he said and bought an older model. So now the only debt is our used truck. After the fully funded emergency is complete, we want to look for our little homestead. We are saving so we can pay cash this time. It's our dream anyway. Be Blessed!
I just finished crocheting a blanket. Yeah. I also like to knit but my shoulder is messed up. Knitting makes it hurt. So crocheting it is. It makes me happy that you are so positive and enjoy knitting. Wish more young people were doing it.
Totally understand why the farmhouse is on hold but that’s going to be a BEAUTIFUL project when you guys get to it!!!!! Can’t wait to see what you do with it! 😍
You kids (well anybody a year younger than us at our age are kids, lol) have got it together with a great plan. Stick with it. And if some things go wrong, what did He tell us to do in the Word, Stand there and watch the Salvation of the Lord. "YOU GUYS ARE GOING TO DO IT FANTASTICALLY!"
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Im almost 50 and jusy now starting this dream...never too old
BeeEarthy Homestead 👋🏼 56 here and starting 💖🙏🏻
Started after 50, and have been at it since 2011.
Life doesnt end until it stops, and that can be when you're 21 or 101. Nah, never too late to start or work on dreams. And dreams are constantly changing. My mother, 54, likes to say, you bring death closer when you you stop living with dreams. Smart woman!
64 here and starting!
BeeEarthy Homestead good for you! It feels so good to set on your land by a fire. You will feel a peace come over you. It’s a great feeling knowing you will never be homeless. Definitely go for your dreams. It’s worth it. Leslye
Do it while you are young and able. I had plans to work until I retired and then I was going to do a lot. Then, at 53 I was diagnosed with bone marrow cancer and the doctor said you better start enjoying like because we can’t cure you. The rest of your life will be treatments to stay alive. I’m 56 and I just raft the Grand Canyon last month. I’m trying to buy me some time...don’t wait!
Bobby Fish May you receive a healing miracle from God ,I will be praying for you , don’t let go of hope, I’ll send you much love.
Bobby Fish, I will keep you in my prayers. Cancer sucks! Keep a good attitude, trust in GOD. No one can really say how long we have so go empty that bucket of yours...GOD bless
Bobby, many prayers too you and for you. I am a twenty year survivor.
Bobby Fish I’m in the same boat. I’m 59, and my doctor told me 3 years ago that they couldn’t cure my breast cancer. After 2.5 years of chemo I am doing exceptionally well - my doctor is amazed and I’ve got a 9 month break from chemo! You just never know what God has planned for you. It is wonderful to hear that you are choosing to live life to the fullest! I have a friend who talks about the blessings of cancer (she is on year 12 of the same journey). One of those blessings is that you appreciate every day as the gift that it is. I have had 3 years of gratitude; even when it was bad, it could have been so much worse! I truly believe that this can be the most wonderful time of both of our lives. God bless you!
KEEP UP THE FIGHT GOD BLESS
Darling,you feel like you will run out of time, I am coming up seventy four and I would love to have the years you have left for more adventures! But we have to take time to value and be grateful for what we HAVE done. Health issues are forcing us to leave our homestead but no one can take away the wonderful years including leaky walls, Mold issues cleaning barns at 11 pm after working a full time job all day, losing three goats to a cougar attack, countless chickens lost to mink, bear and dog attacks on the sheep, a horse injured in the fence and the list goes on. However, there are always the ups. Grandchildren loving being here, horse riding in the hills, new farm babies and it goes on and on and every moment worth it. Laughter and tears, it is all part of the journey. Take time and embrace it. God bless
Sounds like a wonderful blessed journey you have had
I would have watched your RUclips family farm back in the day if there’d been one! :)
I really don't think you know how much God has bless you guys.
That aerial footage shows just how much you have already done since you arrived there. Fantastic. Keep on going, one day at a time.
I watch all your videos but I missed this one. That was almost a year ago. Look how much you have done! You are a sweet family. Keep going.
You guys remind me of the story of the two farmers praying for rain. The one farmer prayed and prayed looked up to the sky and waited. The other farmer got out in the field and readied the field for the rain and prayed for the rain and then when the rain came he was ready. ( something like that) It starts with a desire/ dream/ hope. It moves forward with preparation. And yes, pray pray pray. Your DOING it is an inspiration! Thank you for sharing your learning and experience. "TOGETHER"!
I have been debt free for 4 yrs. now. Started saving to purchase land in central Ga. 3yrs. and counting! You guys keep up the awesome work! You are an inspiration to so many!
How did we get to a point where living below your means was so odd? Our grandparents did that as well as most of our ancestors. Everyone is looking at their credit score rather than their ability to live free from debt. I'm not a fan of Dave Ramsey, but he is right about a lot of financial things. I will never go into debt again willingly.
Growing up in western NC, it seemed like everyone had at least one side gig. People were building things or generating income some way after their normal job. People would buy some land and just build a basement to live in. You would see these basements all over. Years later, they would build a house on top when they had the money. Friends and family showed up to frame it up and everyone knew someone in all the trades so it was affordable. Now we have to get all sorts of planning permission to build a chicken coop in a lot of areas.
These times are forgotten now. It seems to me to be the best way to live. Getting away from this way of life has been what has caused the financial instability of the world.
GeekboyNC y
GeekboyNC truly very well written, well sad! 👍👍 love what you are building, Hollar Homestead, you rock!
You two are such a breath of fresh air to me...I am probably the same age as your parents and it's awesome to see you two raising your children be able to live happily and survive in our unknown future...well done Hollers!
As a sort of footnote for the person who is "afraid I'll be too old by the time it happens". I retired at age 60 and my wife and I relocated onto 20 acres of woodland that we bought about four months before I retired. I'm building our house and our homestead. It's hard work and it's slow going, we're heading into three years and the house foundation isn't in yet - but - Don't think you're "too old" to make it happen ;) Think about what it's going to be when you build it ;)
Being debt free, is such a game changer. We are two years away. Chris is so much more the planner, and dedicated than me. I am impatient, and a "let's do everything now", kind of person, and he reigns me back in. One day, I will make it to the conference, but coming from Florida, it is a long drive. You guys are making huge progress. Looks amazing!
Your place is more and more beautiful all the time ..Good job guys . Im 62 years old you guys have plenty of time but it's going to pass before you know it . I'm so wishing I could be your age again . You're so blessed to have each other working towards the same goals you can do anything. I was invincible until my late fifties with recurring breast cancer my bones ache like crazy taking this medicine but you guys and your friends have been such an inspiration. I planted a fall garden. Just like you working with what I had.
When you read the question about Do your kids ever fight and you both looked into the camera....omg I darn near spit my coffee out LOL !!! 😁
You're right there. That look was priceless.
He is breathing, lol!
Me too. I am wondering what kind of alternate reality some people visualize!!
Kim-n-Brian ...our saying was “ she’s looking at me” or “ she’s breathing my air” now we laugh about it
Haha, me too!
Glad to hear you are playing the guitar. Reading is a great way to relax. I have kids your age, and older. Proud of y'all. So glad to see young people not following the herd. I up and left the U.S in 2002, moved to Ireland. Leaving my family was hard. Now, at 59, I am in transition, at a crossroads. Your message is very much appreciated. Energy goes where attention flows, and I believe we attract blessings by keeping the glass full, not empty. That said, life can be trying. It is how we deal with it that matters. Thanks, guys. Much love. Have fun at the HOA.❤🇨🇮🇺🇸
Your not just people, your amazing people. Keep being you.
One thing at a time! The home your building is better, then the home that is already built! You heart is always in the home you building! Love and hugs from Texas!
Have a wonderful time at the Homesteaders Conference and look forward to sharing some of it with you. Stay strong, be brave, you are on the right path - YOUR path! Love from the UK.
I have grown to love your fireside chats. You give such sound and down to earth answers to real valuable questions. Thanks! Your trailer is looking fabulous! You guys have done such a wonderful job revamping a rotting shell. The roof is my favorite color and material! I don't miss a single one of your videos. You guys rock! Thank you.
Agree with BeeEarthy Homestead...You are NEVER too old. I'm 61, debt free now, and looking at properties in Maine near family in New England. One step at a time and enjoy every day of life!
You guys are sorted! Everything you said made complete sense. All the time I was thinking that you don't need to justify yourselves, but actually the way you set out how you have prioritised, assessed, balanced and kept great good humour is in itself a masterclass in how to step outside 'norms'. And make it work. Lovely people!!
I found this thought you would be interested.
Edible parts: The lower parts of the leaves can be used in a salad; the young stems can be eaten raw or boiled; the young flowers (cattails) can be roasted. Yellow pollen (appears mid-summer) of the cattail can be added to pancakes for added nutrients.
Hey guys, just want you to know I am praying for safe travels for you. Have a wonderful time!
You both are young enough to accomplish all your goals with homesteading. You are on the fast track now and doing great. I'm proud for you if that helps.
I just want to know how you guys got to be so wise at such a young age. When you are debt free, you no longer are a slave to the system and that truly makes you free. You control your life, what great lessons for those sweet young men. They are watching and learning from you lessons that most adults haven’t gotten. Thanks to the answers to questions! Oh and by the way, why wouldn’t we want to watch you in your daily chores? Don’t we all watch Justin Rhodes milk his cows, move his chickens and feed his sheep every ..single ,,day? And I haven’t missed one episode of Doug and Stacey since I found them. You guys are doing what a lot of people would love to have the courage to do. Ten years ago we became debt free and bought a farm in East Texas but my husband was diagnosed with Parkinson’s and I could not do it all so we sold the farm. You guys are such an inspiration to so many and you give courage to those wanting to leave the rat race. Thank you for the videos you put out. Love them all.
Awesome ! Yesterday I thought to myself , " This girl must be a Church Girl " !
I love, love, LOVE your positivity. You were both raised right and when you have the Holy Spirit in your heart, gratitude
is always first. You guys have that and you are thankful for where you are and all you have, and that just lends to
positivity. The Lord is blessing you and I am blessed to watch HIM work through you to show all your viewers. Same thing
with being debt free.... that, (I believe) comes from the Holy Spirit .... you are being obedient to what you know is right and
sharing it. THANK YOU!! God Bless.
Goals are so important, but it's your attitude that makes it work. I'm 76 and still wish I could do more,.
You guys are so pleasant! It relaxes me to watch your interactions.
Hi Meg and Ben. I'm a suburbanite from northern Virginia, and going to HOA because it's within reasonable driving distance from my home. I am a homestead fantasizer rather than homesteader, but I hope to learn more about things I can do like improve my back yard garden, preserve food, etc. And hopefully have real-live conversations with some of you all who are really doing it -- a step beyond watching RUclips videos. :) I hope to meet you there! -Jodi
Staying debt-free, when ever possible, must be the wise path. Good for you!
That poop is Biblical
Yup... being debt-free IS the answer. We had our house built in stages... doing what we could ourselves. With our 4 boys that was an adventure.
We kept saying... "some day we'll look back at all this and have a good laugh." So.. NOW we're laughing but it took some hard work and a lot of 'doin without'... but MAN... was it worth it. Yup... one step at a time gets you there.
You Hollars have The Best attitude. That is the most important ingredient.
Along with other young couples such are yourselves, YOU 2 are truly an inspiration and hope for our future. Honestly, I HAVE TO follow these types of channels to mitigate my fears for my grandkids' futures. Thank you for putting up with me. Best of success and God Bless....Eli.
Thanks for being so open with us, I love your videos. Thanks for sharing your life's ups and downs.
Y'all are legit - love it. Thanks for the amazing content. I've been on a homesteading video binge for the past few days and while I'm disappointed not to find anyone who resembles myself, I'm extremely grateful and blessed to have access to wonderful creators like you guys, Roots and Refuge, Sow the Land and so many others who are sharing your skills and experiences. God bless you! And if you know of any homesteaders near Fayetteville with a YT channel or who are willing to share some advice, please drop their info. Thank you!
Omgorsh I love you guys so much!!
Do your kids ever fight, they're always so well behaved.....
The look on your faces was priceless!!
He's breathing... Agghhh lol
Y'all rawk!! Warms my heart to see you prosper and grow your family and homestead. Love the love you have for each other. Peace and blessings!! :)
Hang in. You should be proud of your accomplishments. Your family is delightful, I really enjoy spending time with you
Love the fact of meeting at bible study. Way to be centered in faith in marriage. Can’t wait to see y’all at HOA. Homeschoolers also! Thanks for this fun video.
Deck cheap. Go to a mobile home park.
When people move out many can't take there deck with them. Disassemble # boards and take pictures take it home and reassemble. FREE LUMBER.
I rattled around in my early days, until my mid 20's, with stupid low-paying jobs, until I met my first husband. Then we started a band that was mainly country, new country, country rock and rock and roll (older rock and roll, dance music, so to speak). This was late 1970's, and that band, Nightingale, got very popular here in Vermont, played all the bars, made a 45 record, and made a lot of money. Then the band and husband melted down, and I joined another band, met my 2nd husband after awhile, and he and I started a lawncare business, played in the band, sometimes had our mowers AND our music equipment stacked up in the back of our pick-up truck when we were working both jobs in the same area! Husband 2 went the way of all things, but I paid my mortgage and ran my farm with those side jobs, and music has been my main gig for almost 40 years. At 73, I don't often get up anymore and sing in front of an audience, but I totally understand what you are talking about. I couldn't live another way, have a regular 9-5 job, so getting out from under crushing debt is numero uno.
Dolly Parton was right: "Working 9 to 5, that's no way to make a living, barely getting by with all taking and no giving..." Thanks for your thoughtful video, guys!
We LOVE the way you have managed this Q&A...so many times others make it into this ponderous thing with it's own life and it takes over the Dialogue...Good Job, keep on keepin on.
Yes it is amazing what you have, Homesteading wise and Partnership wise. You both are early 30s and that is when I was originally farmsteading. Now I'm about to turn 70 and STILL farmsteading. We garden, we hay, we log, we raise grass fed beef. To be 31 again... You have the potential at your feet. Maybe we Original Mother Earthers were a crazy lot, but we had the blueprint for living off the land. Elliot Coleman is still going strong in Maine. Please check out his life and books. You can do it!
I think rebuilding your mobile home is the best decision you could make. You have a shell and you are beefing up the frame. It will be much better and more sturdy. Also, you will know everything about your mobile home and be able to feel peaceful about it. And I personally believe that living in a smaller home is better for families because it makes you interact with one another, and you always know what your kids are up to. I know your audience is curious and wanting to know, and that is fine, but I am enjoying sitting back and watching what you bring to the table. You will get done what you need to do in the time it takes you. It is exciting to watch your life unfold as it unfolds. And yes, it is true...you are regular people just like the rest of us. :-) Love and blessings to you both along with your family and homestead.
Fixing you're mobile home first is a learning experience. It allows you to hone your skills before you fixup /build your forever home.
You two are at a perfect age to be doing this. You are wiser, with more life experiences to handle it , emotionally. Hell a lot of people are still building homes into there 80's just for hobbies. One step a day and pray.
This type of life aint easy. We started our food forest last year on three acres. Also, have a freshwater creek. We had home repairs that needed to be done just like you guys. I'm a disabled Vet and its hard to move around sometimes, but channels like yours keep my motivation up. Next year we're planning for chickens and or ducks. Stay motivated guys and get those perennials in.
I just wanted to jump in and let you know how much I enjoy your channel and following your journey. Being single and at an age where I couldn't physically do what you're doing, I can still grow a small garden, dehydrate, can etc. I realized it doesn't have to be an all or nothing deal..I can live part of the dream anyway. Thanks for your inspiration, blessings to you and your family ❤
You have a beautiful family and wonderful attitude to life. I am astonished that you sometimes have more views on an episode than you have subscribers. I wish more people would click that button.
Mom of three boys here: Died laughing at the look on your face: Do the boys fight? 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤦♀️🤦♀️
I laughed out loud on that one too!
"Dad...he's breathing!"
Dad thinking...' So, do you want me to tell him to never breathe again?"
LOL, parenting is the same all over the place.
I agree with all you are saying about the goals you have. My husband was 42 and I was 33 when we decided to get out of debt using Crown ministries budget plan that was 35 years ago and we haven't regretted it for a moment we own 2 homes paid for. I started last month to teach a life skills class at our local pregnancy resource center and am praying I can help these families to become financially stable if not debt free. So many family problems are caused by mismanaged finances. Please say a prayer for the families in my class>
Praying for you Tonight ..god bless and may his face shine upon you ..love to see your progress and your dynamic ..thank you
Yes! I will be at the conference. I am so excited to meet you both as well as others that I follow on RUclips. Can't wait! This will be my first conference. I love your attitude about life! You are so right on!! Debt free and one day at the time. Rock on!!
You never know how much time you have. My second son died at 30. I thought I was not going to live past 16 yrs when I was younger. Now I am going to be 73. My husband and I just moved to a ranch to live on 2 yrs ago. I am just trying to grow trees and vegetables. We do have 4 chickens and some worms. Still looking forward. You are great people and are about the same age as my Grandchildren.
you guys are adorable.... you are so far ahead of the game ... the kids are only a few years from young adults. You are eating healthy. You're enjoying clean air. And you ARE debt free. And you are using your talents wisely.
there was no internet in the 80s when I was your age
I was clueless. 😆
Looking forward to meeting you all at Homesteaders of America!
I bet your glad to be out of Northern California. I just heard they are shutting off power for up to a week for several counties do to high winds. I think you did the right thing on the house vs. trailer thing. You will have a place to live if and when you decide to fix up the farm house. Plus you will have a place for company to visit if you do move into the farm house. My husband and I are in our 60's and planning to move to Alaska and start a new homestead.........YOUR NEVER TOO OLD!!!
"Do your kids ever fight?" - I'm laughing so hard, I think I'm scaring the neighbours... :)))))))))))))))))
Keep your positive attitude!! You will go a long way!! God gives you the daily strength! Attack one problem at a time! Don't get discouraged!! Rome wasn't built in a day! Be faithful! God bless you and your family!!
Please consider adding the outdoor electrical boxes (lights, plugs) before you get to far with the siding.
Yep. Several. Will be necessary.
I want to add I am a single woman, 63.5 and I plan to homestead when I retire in 1.5 years at 65, so you are never too old to homestead if that is your dream. I hope to be homesteading for the next 20-30 years. I found my land after the Homesteaders Conference last year and closed on it on 12/28/18. I bought 2.19 acres near Berkeley Springs, WV. There are a lot of available properties there for very reasonable prices for those of you still looking for a homestead. My property is close to another homesteader I met last year at Homesteaders of America, and I have great neighbors who have helped me a lot on the projects I have done so far.
I also bought a prebuild Amish Cabin, 336 sq feet, which was delivered on 3/10/19. I have been working on it this year, painting the inside and getting a fence up so my dogs can visit the farm. I planted a few trees and a few flowers. I still have a lot to do but I am on the journey too. I need to add the well, septic, and electric. I hope to have everything up and running by the time I am ready to move there in 2021. Things take longer since I am still working full time, and the weather is a factor in accomplishing some tasks. It was too hot to work on painting most of the summer with no fan or A/C. I have finished priming the inside of the cabin and have finished half of the final white coat on the walls. I am leaving the ceiling and beams wood colored. There are so many steps to take and decisions to make to reach each goal. I agree with your advice to just keep working at it a little at a time and take breaks.
We are in our 60s starting over and finally got our farm and starting to get animals and starting a garden. Yes we may run out of time before it's all done but you know what we are enjoying every moment of it day by day. It's never too late. You always have something to stress over so just take one day at a time one hour at a time and just do what you can and enjoy the rest of your life. I wouldn't change it for anything.
While I was growing up all the adults outside the family ( ie church, school, the grocery, neighbors) would tell my grandparents how well behaved we children were, how nice and polite we were.....grandma would smile and say thank you and tell us "if you can't be bad at home, where can you be bad"? she was proud of us and that was here way of saying thank you. lol
I am excited to meet you guys at HOA! We moved to a VERY run down 51.5 acre farm 6 years ago when I was 47 and my husband was 44. It's never too late! It has been much more work than we could have ever imagined and also much joy! We are often tempted to look at financial things and "retirement" age looming and question whether we should be doing this, but we always come back to yes.
You could always do it so there's a 2-3 minute part at the end of each video where you pick a question or topic of question to answer. Just a thought of a little thing you could do!
I really loved the footage showing your land on a large scale. I understood so much better the layout of things and see the potential too. 😍
Plant corn in blocks. It is wind pollinated and it's more about the corn being pushed against each other by the wind rather than just wind blowing the pollen. I was the only person in the neighbourhood that a decent crop. Try it, you'll like it! :-)
You both are awesome.....so very sensible and taking it project by project!!! Simply amazing to see!! One bite at a time!!!
Hi. .....Ben and Meg, thank you for sharing your video homestead 👋 bye 👋 bye 👋 bye 👋 🎥👍👍👍
You two and Justen inspired me to get chickens and sell the eggs. I now have 15 layers and another 15 that are a week old. It’s a hobby that pays for its self and thin some and I sell out every week!
I think y'all's timing was perfect! I say this because most of us can admit we weren't responsible enough to really put effort into a dream this big in our early 20s. Some could and do...but I know I needed to grow up and earn some battle scars. On the flip side...I decided to start living my homestead dream one year ago at the age of 42. Aside from my wife and kids the farm is my everything, but what I wouldn't give to have a body that was 10 years younger. Your timing is perfect for the channel too. I have fun with my channel (a lot of fun) but I think the vast majority of RUclips viewers related much better to the "born in the 80s" crowd. So...just keep pushing because your timing couldn't have been better.
U guys r just amazing people...dont ever change...ur positive attitude is so inspiring to me...thank u so much
Oh one thing.. my #3 son could be Bens twin, except he's had a buzz cut since ~8 and he is 26 now... He's a knife maker, metal worker, and nubie welder. Put it on hold a bit to build a 40 foot container shop and a tiny home on our property. Learning as he goes....
I,m 62 and my wife is in her (younger than me lol) years. We have a homestead we named Melody Acres. We started our homestead one year ago, and are building our home ourselves, so you are definately not out of time yet. Just do one day at a time and let the Lord do the worrying.
It cost $5500 to get my dad's trailer hauled away and we were lucky to find that guy. Mobile homes depreciate. The farmhouse will only appreciate in value the more you work on it. You guys are on the right track.
Great to see and greet the both of you today at HOA.
Great Q&A. I'd been wondering about the farm house, and why you weren't using it, but not anymore. Thank you!
I like that... Live like no one else now so you could live like no one else later! It's nice to see you guys having the courage to live out what has inspired you. That inspires everyone else! Thank you and Godspeed! ❤️
Now that you've rebuilt the Trailer you don't have to think👎 of it other than home,
Have a fun trip!
Jo Jo
“Rebuilding” the on-site mobile home is letting you create a space just perfect for your family, great choice 👍🏻🥰
Being an older guy I am proud of you two trying to be debt free. There's so many advantages to this goal. I taught my 30 and 26 year old girls that debt free living and they actually listen to me. Our society is free and capitalistic. You have to be an individual with goals and avoid temptation of too much debt. To many people live for instant gratification. Your Homestead is a long and hard working gratification that money can't buy. Good work! and a great lesson for your boys.👍
Wanted to meet and talk with you so badly at the HOA conference this weekend but there were always so many people waiting! Next year for sure. Thank you for the wonderful adventure you've begun. You're an inspiration for me to fight harder for my dream of leaving the city and starting my forever homestead! I homestead as much as you can in the Metro Detroit area working around all the nonsense laws and ordinances. Originally from a family farm and cattle ranch in Central FL.
Hope to see you guys on Saturday. You have been a great inspiration to me and I love watching your videos.
I love what you're doing. We have also been very intentional with our money for years. Last year we got completely debt free, including the house, and never going back. Being debt free provides so many opportunities to shape life according to your own wishes.
A factor that I believe is very, very important is for couples to be in agreement and work towards the same goals.
Lived in Northern Virginia(NOVA) For 16 years!! Beautiful area, but turned so blue now!!!! CA.2.
You are my go to optimism channel ☺so whatever you do it works .I agree one step at a time it's soo easy to get overwhelmed
Have fun at the conference. Enjoy
My kids and I absolutely love you guys we just recently got internet so we have been watching your journey on our tv which doesn’t allow for comments or notifications so I thought we would let you know that you’re inspiring us to start making preparations to move towards homesteading
Awesome video. Y'all did a great job answering as many questions as you could. I think that Y'all are doing a great job. I know that sometimes it gets discouraging, but the way Y'all are handling it is awesome. One day at a time, One thing at a time. God Bless Y'all.
This video is beautifully edited! I loved Ben's drone footage, the music and of course the Q&A. It felt like we were sitting down having a visit together. You two are so relatable, friendly and easy going. You never cease to put a smile on my face and warm my heart, so thank you for that. I'm looking forward to the HoA conference vlogs (I hope you are vlogging some of it?) I found your channel about 2 months ago and have watched every one of your videos. Of all the channels that I have clicked on the bell so I get notifications, yours are always the ones I try to watch asap. Thank you once again for letting us in to see a glimpse of your lives. You are some of my favourite people that I've never met! xo Heather 🇨🇦
Life is a journey...not a destination. Enjoy each day with those boys.
Your place is looking fantastic.......Look at how far you have come not how far you have to go when you feel overwhelmed. You MUST take time for yourselves.
Thanks for taking the time to give me my Hollar fix before you head out. How do you stay positive? One big way is to surround yourself with positive people. You guys help me stay positive. 😊❤️. Much love and good wishes from your home town.
Learning from you guys.I love your positivity.
The place looks so amazing from when you started. Keep up the good work. Baby steps. We did Dave Ramsey also. January of this year we were debt free and was starting to build the 3-6 months Emergency fund and the truck died. So we did what he said and bought an older model. So now the only debt is our used truck. After the fully funded emergency is complete, we want to look for our little homestead. We are saving so we can pay cash this time. It's our dream anyway. Be Blessed!
The look you gave about the “do your kids fight?” Question. Too funny!
I just finished crocheting a blanket. Yeah. I also like to knit but my shoulder is messed up. Knitting makes it hurt. So crocheting it is. It makes me happy that you are so positive and enjoy knitting. Wish more young people were doing it.
Totally understand why the farmhouse is on hold but that’s going to be a BEAUTIFUL project when you guys get to it!!!!! Can’t wait to see what you do with it! 😍
have followed you for a long time and always enjoy your videos. hope and pray the blessings keep coming, even when life if difficult.
You kids (well anybody a year younger than us at our age are kids, lol) have got it together with a great plan. Stick with it. And if some things go wrong, what did He tell us to do in the Word, Stand there and watch the Salvation of the Lord. "YOU GUYS ARE GOING TO DO IT FANTASTICALLY!"
You're a very impressive young couple. Thanks for sharing!
Hi Guys....Good to see you back....! Goats are good but NOISEY....Keep that in mind....Have a great week...!!!!