Here's what you missed (I saved the best for last) | VLOG

Hey ya'll, I'm Jess from Roots & Refuge Farm
Welcome to a place that feels like home. A small farm with a big family. We hope you'll pull up a chair, grab some coffee and visit awhile.
There was a time that all I wanted in the world was a little farm where I could raise my family and grow our food. Now, that is exactly what exists outside my door. In watching it unfold, a new dream was formed in my heart - to share this beautiful life with others and teach them the lessons we've learned along the way. Welcome to our journey, friend. I am so glad you're here.
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- To drop us a line:
PO Box 4239
Leesville SC 29070
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- To support us through PayPal: www.paypal.com/paypalme/jessi...
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[@ShinyNickelBlades]

"That's gonna be great, thanks Mom." That was so sweet.

[@brandiharris7749]

I came to make this exact comment.

[@samanthaclairesnyder]

"Oh good, no bugs got in my tea" is the most adorable, gardener thing to say and I am here for it 🤣🥰

[@kaytaylor3721]

I live in the Seattle area. About seven years ago (at 74) a couple of friends and I drove through Idaho, Utah, and Arizona as far as Flagstaff, took a sharp left and drove all the way to Savannah. Then up the coast to Hilton Head, toes in the Atlantic, to Myrtle beach and headed back home. I drove almost 8000 miles in just under four weeks. I loved that trip. Doing it again I'd change a couple of things - but never will because . . . . . 81! Enjoy all of it, every bit, while you still can. I wish I'd gone earlier!!

[@SageandStoneHomestead]

What a sweet simple conversation with Jackson that you left in. Thank you for that!

[@onthehillfarm]

I am in Alberta, Canada. My 24 year old daughter and I just got back from a long road trip doing 9 states in 10 days - 2600 miles - Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Louisiana, Alabama, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina and Florida. I was hoping to hit your farmer’s market, but we ended up being in South Carolina on a week that it was closed. The memories she and I made together were priceless! Enjoy your time!

[@PrairieDawnC]

Hi from Alberta!

[@SimpleMandy]

"Sometimes we make plans, God laughs, and it all comes out on wash day." I love this!!

[@sweetlavend4]

This was my favorite comment of this video also!

[@kimdavidson7925]

The excitement when your videos pop up didn't change !!!

[@growjoyfullyhomestead]

Happy birthday Asher! Fellow May birthday here!🎉

[@schammond8993]

A person can love what they do and still burn themselves down. Taking time for yourself is cleansing. It helps us reflect on what's really important. Good video.😊

[@MLF-db9do]

I learned from Gordon Ramsay the reason to let meat rest for around 20 minutes out of the fridge is because it will cook more evenly and the inside will cook without risking burning the outside. Tried it last night with steak and yep. Cooked a perfect steak for the first time after letting it rest on the counter for 20 minutes. Also, glad to see your face again. your smile makes me smile! 🙂

[@cyndyalvarado3913]

So glad you love this because we love you! Personally, I don't know what I would do without your videos. It is something I look forward to with excitement. Almost as much as spending time with my own children. You are very special to me. Thank you for being here.

[@chezelleconroy2951]

So well said- Jess is like a bestie we all get to hang out with!

[@RoughWoodsFarmhouse]

Oh my word. I lost it when the part played if Jackson coming in and talking to you. The sweetness from that boy. We’re struggling with “changes” as our oldest boy grows up and I just pray we reap the harvest of these tough years. What a blessing you have, Jess. ❤️❤️❤️

[@marandaranda]

My son is 3 weeks old and I just broke down crying at the little clip you caught of Jackson. My daughter is in 1st grade so I’m realizing how fast time goes already but thinking about my baby boy being grown and showing gratitude toward what I make him for dinner has tore me to pieces. So glad you caught that on camera. “Thanks mom”

[@jonescreekfarm9084]

What we were missing is you! Your smile, your happiness and your joy for life. It’s refreshing and wonderful.

[@jennifergasiorowski7471]

That small break did you well! ❤ While you were away I enjoyed watching your older videos and I noticed a difference in the way you presented them. It seemed like the more recent ones have been a little stressed.... Not sure if that is a good description of the feeling. Either way, you seem refreshed and it's showing! The cottage garden is stunning! Your videos have been my chicken way and because of you I've found ways to slowly build my dream gardens little by little. Every time I turn on your channel I'm inspired and filled with fuel to act out my dreams. Thank you for sharing you dreams coming true. Your the drop in an ocean that send ripples into all of our lives to grow better lives!❤❤

[@lisathompson2730]

So happy to see you! I’ve graduated 3 sons and know the mixed bag of emotions that go with that! I’m so glad that you took the time off to focus on your family and soak in the moment. You will thank yourself for that decision for the rest of your life! ❤❤❤

[@WelcometomyCapeCodlife]

The garden tour was wonderful and this vlog showing us what’s new on the farm it feels like we’re all caught up. The lambs are so stinking cute! Thanks for taking us along.

[@HillTopRooted]

I will never forget the video of when you put them, the goats, out and walked away with them running behind you yelling, “Hey! What are you doing!!??” I showed that to my daughter and we laughed for hours! Hours because we just could not stop rewinding it! 😭😭😭. Congratulations Jackson!!!💜 Happiest of Happy Birthdays, Asher!🎉 Such a beautiful life and wonderful blessing!🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽💜

[@tinatippin5705]

So sweet. A time of refreshing. It reminded me of a scripture I will remember (sometimes) when all the things need my attention now. "Be still (!) and know that I am God". His lead is always the best thing for us. Thanks, Jess.

[@artiearte7620]

So happy to see the utter joy on your face with all the goings on. Welcome back!

[@michellelamprecht6065]

Had such a giggle when Jack said "aaa, lets go" because my son says the same thing and we are in SA....worlds apart but yet the same 😊

[@anasotoco]

gotta love the new generation and their phrases 😂

[@sheilaholmquist6648]

I totally understand about getting safe/healthy animals. We raise purebred Herefords and have a closed herd. We get a new bull every 3 years as we don't breed them to their offspring. Our new bull comes in about 2 weeks, he's what they call a "virgin bull" never been with cows/heifers. We have therapy cows, and we love educating people on safe and sustainable animal husbandry. Sadly, in large herds, STD'S are common and need treatment. With a closed herd we don't have that issue. We currently have 36 head, we sell beef privately, it's so encouraging to teach people about animal care, and have people out to show them how our herd is treated with dignity and respect. I love our little farm, and enjoy sharing what we can to educate others on healthy animal care. Sorry so long winded, I just love our homestead ❤

[@Optimistic_Bonnie]

I used to live in Las Vegas, and when I moved back home to NC, it took 3 days with me driving a Penske truck, with my sister as my navigator. It took 2 days driving 13 hours, and one 17 hour day, but it was an amazing drive! I pray for you and Malia to have a fun and safe road trip back to SC.

[@normaallen2809]

I did a cross country with my youngest daughter moving her from Jacksonville, FL to Whidbey Island, WA two years ago. It was so awesome. Took 10 days and we made a stop at Yellowstone NP because neither of us had been there and you never know when you will get another chance. Have a marvelous time!

[@jessicahurd5704]

wow that's from one corner to the other!

[@mrsrugg]

I never comment, but had to stop and say that I'm a fellow Whidbey islander! It's the best. She moved into a wonderful community 😊

[@shelleyhender8537]

I have driven to and from BC to Newfoundland over 20 times, after my parents relocated t9 the West Coast of beautiful British Columbia. The distance is over 5000 Kilometres (~ 3,100 miles). My parents would pack up the car and drive for a week, stopping at wonderful provincial parks, then finally crash at a beautiful hotel with a giant swimming pool, so we could work off some of our energy! I’m so grateful to my parents, as I’ve seen all of Canada, from the Arctic to each beautiful coast! As an adult I have traveled to Europe, as well as the US. Our Commonwealth cousins in the UK find it a bit daunting, when they travel in Canada, as well as, the US. We have tremendous distances to trek, but they sure are gorgeous ones! Have a wonderful trip with your kids!🇨🇦☺🇺🇸

[@dirtroaddestiny]

Can’t wait to see your hibiscus plants!

[@denisehaynes1885]

You look so happy even in your busiest times….seize the day!

[@jaynematzkinhair8830]

You look so happy and refreshed, I watched your videos every day several times a day. I appreciate you so much. Self care is important. 💗👃I got you!

[@vl1347]

My oldest graduated this Friday. I’m an emotional wreck. So very proud and excited for him while at the same time feeling immense sadness for the end of this chapter.

[@tamara4557]

Happy birthday Asher. I started doing yearly mother daughter trips with my mother from when I was around 15 years old. Now I'm turning 40 this summer and were still doing these trips.

[@kathylane5934]

The whole farm is beautiful. The animals look great. I love the cottage garden. I always love the glass building. The stained glass is beautiful

[@AJ-lz3lr]

I paused the video 30 sec in to applaud you and comment that its wonderful to hear youve taken time off to nourish your soul! And after watching the video, I can see it too. Thank you Jess. ❤

[@AmyWatson-fy2hc]

I am so glad you enjoyed the time off. You bless us with your content and insight. So glad to have you back.

[@lettyschlieper7410]

Lambs. So cute. Happy to see you back . Glad you and your family had a good time off enjoying life. ❤️🌱❇️

[@rhodi-anne]

Jess!! I have missed you! Thank you for taking time for yourself, you are such an inspiration! Love hanging out with a you, you are awesome! Thank you for being you. ❤❤❤

[@user-qq2qh2uw6d]

Your personality is contagious and just makes me smile.

[@lorenaw62]

I’m so glad you enjoy making KZbin content, because I sure love watching your videos!! And, yes, your farm is GLORIOUS. I have so enjoyed watching your journey from Arkansas to South Carolina and what you are continuing to create on your beautiful property. Much love from Southern Nevada. ❤❤

[@socorromolina-sm9vy]

PS Love Asher's hair! Just beautiful. Happy birthday to him! 🎂 🎉

[@nmdispatchlady]

Jess you and Miah must be very happy to have all your chicks in one area. Jess you are NOT the only mother that thinks they have to "clean up" to go to our children's special things. It's good that you are in a place that you can intelligently say NOT NOW, there is only so much time and energy that any of us have. Wisdom is knowing when to say not now.

[@jaclynfrank]

My grandparents took us on that drive back when I was in 7th grade. NC to Vegas where they had lived before moving closer to us. Quite the drive, but lots of cool stops along the way and family to visit. I’m sure you’ll make many wonderful memories! So glad to see all the updates on the farm. ❤

[@sowemovedhere]

Oh fun!! A few years ago I drove my 4 kids from Montana to Texas, and then back a week later. It’s great for all of us to see this beautiful country!

[@rainwaterrefugehomestead2267]

Asher's very matter of fact face on that roller coaster was great 😂

[@Sky-Child]

Asher totally suits being a wizard.

[@ruthannecoro6198]

Awe sweet little moment with Jackson ❤ thank you for the little peeks into your life 😊

[@kateverett7869]

The break was good for you! Your bubble is back! Rest is good. Play time is good. I love how you say to yourself "Self. No!" lol I totally get that!

[@joesqudy]

What a blessed, beautiful life and farm. My dream home. ❌⭕️🙏🏽♥️

[@francestaylor9156]

Hahaha love the phrase “rogue driveway squash.” 🤣

[@LanaK5240]

Aww! The lambs are adorable Jess!! Thank you so much for posting this!🙏❤️🙏. I just love your farm and your family!! God bless always!🙏❤️🙏.

[@rachelpennington2738]

So happy to see you back again!

[@mercurybard9794]

"Rogue driveway squash" -- could be a new variety 😁 I know that the drive seems intimidating, but I treasure the long drives with my dad. It's the only time that we really get a chance to talk. He's a brilliant man and a great storyteller, but he's very private and is honestly bad at talking on the phone. Sounds like you were just blessed like that with Asher. This may not apply if she's been living in a dorm, but when I moved a family from Vegas in with me for a couple of months, everything that had been outside on their patio or in their storage unit was riddled with black widows.🤯 And, yes, Americans are crazy with our driving. When I was working in Luxembourg, I drove to Normandy one weekend. My coworkers' minds were blown. My thought process was that it was about 6hrs each way, which is what my family used to drive once month to visit my grandparents. Left Friday night; drove back Sunday afternoon.

[@tbarc1]

Jess, thank you so very much ❤ I so enjoy spending time with you on these vids and spend a good deal of time smiling all goofy lol I have been a small town girl all my life...to old at this point to live a life that would entail even a small snippet of the glorious life you share, nor am I financially in a place to afford more than the one extra mouth I have to feed (my aging cat Raymond lol) I honestly used to return soda bottles to put gas in my car and drive down country roads so I could sit with my sons (who are both nearing 50 yo currently) and watch cows graze in fields! You are so blessed and I'm so very grateful to be blessed by the absolute joy of viewing every moment you share here 😊

[@belieftransformation]

Wonderful, emotional visit with you as you recollected all the family times & those to come. Thanks for sharing tidbits of your family life & gardens & animals🥰 Blessings to all 🤗🇨🇦

[@caraoiler711]

How exciting to have Maliah close by! I LOVE a road trip! I hope it’s wonderful for yall.

[@Patricia-lg8vg]

I drove with my dear husband from Illinois to California when we were first married - Nature's beauty is amazing! Have a wonderful time in this special moment! How fun! Good for you!

[@klbennef]

You do "bless us" and we thank you!! ❤

[@ssgundes1]

I knew it would be hard for you not showing us what you’re doing, knowing how much we love you and want to be a part of your life. I watched another video you just did and I was thinking I bet Jess was so excited to be back.

[@tammykaltreider]

Having a passion is a wonderful blessing ✌️🤍

[@cathybreeding4603]

You look so happy, Jess. It shows that you love what you do and you love your life. Thanks for letting us in to your beautiful life. 🙏❤️

[@angelasevier6520]

Take The Time Jess. It Passes So Quickly. You Can't Go back..❤❤❤❤❤

[@edenridgefarms]

Hahah! Josh from England when he was defending Americans from people saying we’re not we’ll traveled “each state is a different country!” Love him. And I love when he shares Jesus too. 😊

[@tamararobinson2069]

Love that Smile of yours!!! Happy you took a “break” and found it again🥰 So stealing your “ We make plans - God laughs - and it all comes out on wash day”❤ Your world is full of Lushness💚❤😊

[@dbruce5760]

Thank you for sharing with us. I love your zest for life. I need more. I am hoping your love and enthusiasm will rub off on me! I am struggling with my last baby growing up and leaving home. He is almost 20. He was homeschooled and is now in a few classes at a community college. He wants to go off to college, however we fall in the cracks with financial aid. Pray for him and us with this and God's will. I love all your tidbits of wisdom, Jess. Thank you and may God bless you, your family, and farm. ❤

[@LaBonnevie61]

I drove from Halifax Nova Scotia to Visalia California twenty years ago. I had two teenagers and a Calico cat. It took 10 days and I loved the trip. No audio books but lots of conversations and music.

[@deewinston5651]

Thank you Jess, I love how much you love your family. And, your family sure love you! Of all your talents and accomplishments, that’s #1 in my book. I have loved your channel ever since I first started watching, I think in 2018. Ben was little more than a baby and so was Toby an Ezra. You just shine when you talk about Mia, and all your family. A cross country trio with Miah will be so fun, long, but lots of memories to be made. Thank you for sharing y’alls life with us. We are truly blessed.❤️✝️🙏

[@tonyarueff3230]

Road trips with your kids are the best, even once they are young adults. The open road has fewer distractions.

[@careseapeck1246]

So happy to see you again! You inspired me to give pla to to my neighbors as the move out of our apartment complex. I have my own garden at my boyfriends house which has extended to our 82 yr old neighbors yard. Thank you for always inspiring me to keep spreading the love and knowledge I have learned in my short 3 yrs of gardening. My whole family loves watching you.

[@AlmostaGreenAcre-zs5eu]

I adore animals but can no longer care for them due to physical limitations but through you I can live vicariously. It always makes me smile and brings me joy to go on walkabouts (as I like to call them) with you. Thanks for sharing and God's protection on your trip to Vegas and back again. Have fun 🙂

[@ValdirSilva-sz1ms]

*que alegria contagiante tudo de bom para você Jess uma semana abençoada para você 🇺🇸👏🏻👏🏻*

[@ValdirSilva-sz1ms]

*PARABÉNS JÉSSICA 👏🏻👏🏻*

[@coreydavidson3501]

Awe Jackson's sweet thanks mom for dinner.

[@kimdavidson7925]

So excited for your daughter to be coming to you!

[@vj563]

I missed your videos Jess. I didn't realize you posted a video 2 days ago of the garden. I have to watch that too. I'm glad you got the rest you needed and enjoyed the time with your family. The cottage garden looks amazing! You seem much happier and full of energy again. Glad you took that time off. 😊

[@emmylivingston4380]

Dang now you are just spoiling us! That cottage garden is just dreamy! I'm shook by how massive those cannas are😮

[@Bindy36]

Look at your farm… very picturesque…. Jeremiah you should be proud… ❤

[@CyleeRaye]

So happy you’re honoring your needs and happy to see you back a little more too! Thanks for blessing my day!

[@angelakaufman6153]

Thank you for sharing your little joys with us. Your joys are our joys.

[@judysherrill2871]

Glad you enjoyed your break. We are sure glad you are back. We will take anything you share even little snippets. Absolutely beautiful farm!

[@seekerjordan680]

My mom heart (and eyes) just started weeping with joy and appreciation with Jackson's little "Thanks Mom". 🥺🥹❤ He's a good soul. Good luck with the training 💪!!!

[@robinjean5925]

Awwww how sweet...thanks mom ❤

[@bridgestew]

My sister and I drove from Ohio to California once with her 4 year old son and her dog. Driving across the country was something I had always wanted to do. We gave ourselves about a week to do it and focused on random things to see along the way that were tourist-y but odd. Like, "World's Second Largest Ball of Twine" type odd. Why see the largest when you can see the _second_ largest? It was awesome and I still relish that trip even with a 4 year old getting cranky from time to time. Now that the boy is 20 years older than then, my sister and I still talk about doing something like that one more time before we get too old.

[@heidiharrison4764]

Those lambs are adorable 🥰

[@KathyW5]

I know exactly what a trip like that is like. Moved from northern Illinois to Aberdeen, Washington (3254 miles on a very southern route hitting Texas in winter) with 2 boys, 14 and 7, and a cat. It took us 9 days since I was the only driver, but we did get to explore the Grand Canyon, yes, Las Vegas and other places on our route. I still think fondly about that trip even though it was gruelling because we stopped to see many sights along the way and created so many memories. You could pick somewhere to stop explore with Maleah (I know spelling oops) and always have that special memory for just the two of you. It will be a wonderful trip no matter what.

[@cdavid2486]

You DO look rested. Everything looks beautiful!

[@smallspaceswithGloria]

Good for you, the kids I have at home I will cherish them forever but one child is living on the streets somewhere, haven’t seen in13 years, so enjoy your children the way you know, ❤.btw I love your channel

[@marabergman2304]

Those scenes from your trip with Asher made me cry. I also have a 17 year old son and the love I feel for my teens is just so so immense because I have watched them both grow into the most beautiful version of themselves. Those later teen years are so bittersweet and beautiful. ❤️

[@kittyrichards9915]

Absolutely put yourself together for the ceremony! Makes perfect sense.

[@greenrockgarden2851]

Awe! I love lambing season. So sweet!

[@joannejohnsen244]

The walkways in your cottage garden are stellar. They really set the tone.

[@katherineb6102]

I have driven across the country, coast to coast, a total of 12 times and have two pieces of advice. One, get off the road and into your hotel room before dark. Two, stay in a place that offers a free, good quality breakfast (Hampton Inns) It saves you a bunch of time and money. If you are leaving from Vegas, Bryce Canyon and Zion are on the way and so worth the stop. Relax and enjoy the trip.

[@michellenoel2725]

We just drive from California to Michigan to watch our girl graduate college and bring her her car. It was long and hard and my body is upset, but you see so much from the window of a car that you would never see from the window of an airplane.

[@shawnmariemann]

Road trips with my kids are the best things ever. My oldest was in the military and I drove with her best friend from PA to NC, PA to SC. It was such a sweet trip as these kids head into being on their own.

[@icewebhomestead]

Kids can be allot for everyone sometimes lol my last nursing ara was hard on my body. I lost allot of weight etc. even with eating so much. I kept nursing my last child until they were 13 months old when they no longer wanted to nurse. It’s a blessing because my first child I couldn’t nurse. So I get the losing weight with nursing and how kids can be allot lol 😊 it’s so great that you are so supportive of your stock.

[@kimberleeswanson8001]

So happy you had time to rejuvenate. We are all happy you’re back. Looking forward to seeing what you have coming next. 🌸

[@nicoledillavou4043]

Realizing your life is just as you want it to be ❤

[@annjohnson543]

The cottage garden is so gorgeous, Jess. What a wonderful place to sit and reflect on the day.

[@denisemusicnut]

Sending prayers for a safe trip! My sister moved her daughter to San Diego from Jacksonville, NC. She declared she would never do it again. Then she flew back out there to visit her daughter, and bought a car while she was there. She had to drive it all the way to Michigan! I’m thankful that her other daughter flew out to ride shotgun with her mother, so she didn’t have to drive alone. It was a huge relief that I didn’t have to do it! Hopefully, you can take your time, and make it fun! I’m sure your family and friends in Arkansas would enjoy having you stop there for a few days to break up the trip!

[@KCallaAK]

I loved you talking about the lady sheep. You started my day with a chuckle. Bless you.

[@amandawalls8731]

You seem so refreshed. I'm so glad you took the time you needed. ❤

[@betweenelmandoak]

We had a brown nubian goat named Claire when I was a kid. She was my favorite. ❤ Love seeing your Claire.

[@socorromolina-sm9vy]

O my that peach Iris is magnificent😍 never seen one in peach! Canna is lovely & Dahlia's as well!! You sure have an amazing green hand✋🏼for flower garden👍🏼😍

[@hallierasbury65]

Relaxing journey. So glad you are back and you got time to unwind.

[@tdleitch]

So happy to see you so content, refreshed and happy!

[@suzannegrimes9743]

So glad you’re back ❤ Thanks for sharing that breathtaking view of the cottage garden and farm. It was great to see the boys playing. You appeared refreshed and relaxed. I really enjoy watching you interact with your children. It warms my heart ❤️