Homesteading ALONE~

[@maggiereese1053]

I am 56 and my husband is 64. He has COPD and is on oxygen so, if it gets done homesteading wise, then it is all on me. That is the reason I have not gone to any animals other than chickens here. I have set things up here as if I were alone because I cannot depend on Dh to be able to help me. For instance, not able to lift 50 pound bags of chicken feed anymore like I could as a younger woman so, I have set the metal cans I use to store it in up so that I can back my pickup up to the cans with the tail gate down, open the bag and tilt them over to pour them into the cans. My Daddy, a country farm boy from Tennessee used to always say, "work smarter, not harder".

[@PriscillaSwaney]

Maggie I use an old roll around walker to get my heavy things into the house and the storage building, easier than a wheel barrel. I don't have animals, barter sewing for things I don't raise. This old woman had a grandpa that was from Tennessee. Taught me the right way too. You're in my prayers.

[@jojo9912]

Maggie Reese - I like your Daddy! He raised a smart girl. ; )

[@bdoyle9881]

Two wheeler carts, work great too! And sliding bags close til you can drop, pull, and wheel away.. having a back back, makes you relearn, everything. . But I still can't lift. I want to have chickens, but not sure I could even do it. Just dreaming anyway

[@rebeccaiya8731]

Maggie Reese i use a wagon.it does all my heavy lifting.i just drag it around.its especially useful to move firewood.hope that helps

[@ouvickie]

We sold off our cows several years back and I told my husband I don't want a herd anymore. Same issue here, my husband is no longer physically able to take care of livestock and I can't do it by myself. I'm 59 and we no longer have children at home or family around to help. I totally agree, "work smarter, not harder"!

[@preplikeagypsy10]

Thank you Patara, you're always in my prayers. I'm 53, my husband has been gone 10 years now, I actually had to start over, I am fortunate that I am blessed in many ways, I have a little land, chickens for the first time, but slowly moving forward by the grace of God. This video is very encouraging and inspiring thank you so much!

[@vernahelvik8678]

This is so true. In five years I lost four brothers and my mother, broke my arm at work which damaged the nerve in my arm, which caused it to be partial paralysis. I was hit with arthritis and now have to adjust my garden and can not do my nursing job which I loved doing the last thirty years. But I still have a garden and can. I also have a very loving and helpful husband. Life is an adjustment. Love your videos. Will pray for your hubby.

[@debbiedeal5937]

Patara, you are an amazing woman. My husband died at 32. I was 29. We never know what life will hold for us. I raised my 2 children (4 & 10) alone. Yes! Herbs, an orchard, berries, the back to eden garden are all great ideas. My heart goes out to you. I know illness is a scary thing to deal with. I will keep you and your family in my prayers. I admire you so much. You are a little bitty, but my goodness you are a strong woman!

[@mikeseay8509]

I just discovered your channel yesterday; I am a homesteader at heart but not reality yet. Prayers for your husband and family. Karen Seay

[@FrugalFarmerChannel]

Homesteading = working regular job + morning chores + evening chores + cooking, canning, & freezing = 1 worn out old frugal farmer

[@peachykeen7634]

Preach.... I hear ya....!!

[@ggarden8432]

My Grandmother worked till the day she passed she was 89, now i did a good bit for her on her farm but she was a strong woman. my grandfather passed 20 years before she did. My mom is 70 and is also a very strong woman who gets mad at me when i tell her to" take it easy, I'll do it". Women are a lot stronger than most people think. Prayers for your family, I hope everything comes out okay.

[@intentionallyinpired]

I agree so much. I run our farm 80 percent alone. My baby who is 15 left in Jan. And my sweet daughter leaves for college in the fall. My husband is gone 45-70 hours a week and spends 30-50 hours in bed recovering from long work hours I sometimes get very tired. I deal with autoimmune diabetes and thyroid. I love my farm but I really needed a practical video on how to do this primarily alone.. Thank you Patera. I love my little farm. Xoxo

[@unlimitedcreations5928]

A 15 year old left ? How?

[@JanetWilham]

aweeee hon hugsss---this old granny has been through cancer and more and my husband has many problems due to the war he was in but as I go each day tending my farm and talking to the Lord, I rest in Him and He said He would never leave us nor forsake us and that he would direct us in ALL our ways--be it farming, helping a hubby or whatever life throws at us, HE WILL strengthen us IF we LET Him......soooo as you are going through troubled time I pray Jesus will heal your husband and give you more strength for you are a warrior girl!!!! and keep on keeping on and do NOT panic whatever is going on rest and do what needs to be done that hour, that day.....God bless you and your family!! hugsss!

[@jennyhackenberg3790]

you are a smart lady. I live in a trailer court but it is my homestead. I have chickens and I expanded my garden this year. added 2 raised garden beds. and this year for the first time I strained my back to the point where I went to the emergency room. so I learned I have limitations. not something I wanted to learn lol. I now have 19 chickens but will be going down to 17 this week. I took a week off work so I can get caught on some things around here. but you are right you have to learn how to depend on you. expand your knowledge. know your limitations.

[@debbytomlinson9970]

Its such a Blessing for those women who have good husbands. We will be praying for your James.

[@onedazinn998]

Strength...wisdom...calm assurance & the usual bubbles of joy...coming from you like a strong tree planted by the winding, but refreshing brook. Thank you for the reminders...sometimes the heart wants what the body cannot deal with...I needed that reminder on cattle >.>... & I will be praying for you guys.

[@e.cahill9594]

Thank you for all your wisdom you share with us. I don't have a homestead, but this video pertains to all of us. I will continue to pray for your husband and your entire family. Know how much you help people in so many ways. Thank you for this...

[@DeeMoback]

E.Cahill yes

[@redtankgirl5]

Great video Patara. I am a woman doing a homestead on her own and have found that I have to keep within my limits and not expand too quickly so I can know exactly what they are. I was a boilermaker welder for many years and strength was a plus for me, when it came to lifting and the such. However, I will say this to those reading, a body can only do so much in a day when working alone and doing everything. Being Chief cook and bottle washer is a mammoth task to say the least but still doable with a schedule and an understanding that you need to work smarter not harder. Learning to maintain equipment so it won't let you down is also a key to making it work, I find. I will be thinking and hoping on your husband for a good result and a fine recovery. All the best to you girl. Thanks for all you do, which is a lot.

[@debbienurse6104]

Sending Mega prayers to you and your family. In 1999, when our twins were 6 mos old, my hubby was diagnosed with Myleofibrosis and given less than 5yrs (not long enough to see our babies go through kindergarten). In March 2001 he had less than 6mos. He had a Bone Marrow transplant in July 2001 at MD Anderson in Houston. We have gone through ups and downs (that in sickness and health part of vows is so true), so I know what you are going through. My hubby is still with us and last year attended our Twins HS graduation. He is doing really well. Prayers are soooo powerful. So is positive thinking and never giving up. You are strong and so is your family. You have a strong support group out here for you. Sending healing prayers, hugs and Love to all of you.

[@tinagoodman7256]

Prayers for you and your family as well as Patera.

[@darlenep5206]

Thank you For your Words of Wisdom.. Definitely Food for thought .. 3 yrs ago From out of the Blue my Strong Husband , was Diagnosed with Stage 3 Merkel Cell Carcinoma , It was a Very difficult yr, But by the Grace of God , , he is doing well.. We did What we Had to to get thru,We changed alot of things about our Life style, to Try to Stay Healthy , HE Helps those , who help themselves, One Day at a Time, You and Your Family Will Be in Our Prayers , Love you Patara

[@Titus212b]

Said it before.. This is one smart, level-headed lady. Pay attention to her.

[@NothingToNoOneInParticular]

I agree and I do! :)

[@cristyrhodes4898]

Thank you for being real and your wisdom. We currently have 5 goats (and 2 babies that we will be selling once they are ready) and 18 chickens. I manage mostly by myself during the week and hubby helps on the weekends when he is home with bigger projects. Our 8 year old has his little chores like collecting the eggs, feed & water the dogs, help with gardening. But he is spoiled. lol

[@dianemurray1272]

Patara, first all best wishes and prayers for your whole family at this time. Thank you for speaking about this subject. I would encourage all women, not just those living on a homestead, to learn how to use tools, lawn equipment, basic car maintenance, basic carpentry as well as how to manage your household's financial situation. I lost my husband very quickly at the age of 53 over 16 years ago. Thankfully, we were a team in all things and together we learned all those skills I mentioned. Iam constantly surprised that their are still women in this day who leave all responsibilities of running their homes to their husbands. I know a few women who have no idea how to write a check or what their bills are never mind what shape their finances are in. You never know what will happen in the future. Again, thanks for addressing this subject.

[@saddleridge4364]

Diane, I also lost my husband when he was 52, in Dec 03. I am fortunate in that I previously spent 10 yrs in the Adirondacks and learned many ways of doing without, or doing things in a non-standard way, especially the first year with no electricity, and the following 9 years with no plumbing. The skills you learn will hold you in good stead when the times comes that you need them. Women need to be strong in many ways, not just physically. It takes guts and much help from the Lord to keep going. Bless you .

[@carolgiangreco6548]

Thank you so much for opening this conversation. I have what I believe is a unique situation, 2/3 acre in the Catskills, an old fishing cottage on the bank of the Esopus Creek purchased by my partner's grandparents in 1946. John came here as a kid and over the years came to own the place, planting fruit trees, berries, raised beds for veggies, living like a true conservationist, repurposing and living sustainably. John passed two years ago and I am now doing what you're speaking about, down-sizing and simplifying. Your example of digging deep for strength is outstanding, thank you.

[@barbarakelly1916]

Patera, it's inspiring that you have taken your family's challenge and turned it into an opportunity. The opportunity you chose is to make practical plans going forward, and then to share your wisdom with others . You are living the teachings and courage of your Irish and Cherokee ancestors you've described in other videos. Wishing you blessings and support as you and your family navigate this passage in life. You are in the thoughts, prayers and hearts of many. Sending you hugs and sunshine from the Canadian prairie!

[@crystalwright1504]

Patara, the thing I love about your channel is your down-to-earth plain speaking. You always have such practical advice. My husband and I bought acreage almost two years ago and built a house. We are gradually building a small business and homestead, and plan to add more each year. We have had the discussion about "what if" several times. Life forced us into that mode with several life changes. We have talked about the things I would need to know and do if something were to happen to him. It's a conversation that too many people shy away from out of fear but it is absolutely necessary!! I am planning to have him help me create a "how to" guide to our property/machinery/pumphouse/etc that I can have in hand to refer to when my mind is overwhelmed and something needs doing anyway. I thank you for your time and efforts to help all of us out here. Take care.

[@goatgirl61]

Excellent advice... my homesteading has been put on hold due to raising up a whole new family , my 3 grandbabies ranging in age 7 , 4 , and 4 months ... while loving every minute ( most of the time ) I have had to make huge compromises in the field. I've let all my does raise out their brood this season and no garden at all this spring or summer ( I'm hoping for a fall one though , fingers crossed ) The biggest obstacle for me has been to take it easy on the self negative talk , I got down on myself for not being super woman . Your advice is spot on when it's only you to start with and you have think outside the box . One thing is for sure children grow and these are great kids I am blessed to serve them to the best of my ability , my goats can wait , the garden will return and one day I'll have huge help ... God bless you and keep you and yours . Praying for you and your husband for good news on his health in Jesus name I pray , Amen ♡

[@NaturesCadenceFarm]

Patara I so appreciate that you share even the most personal stuff about your life and never give us fluff. These are very important considerations you have mentioned. Hugs and prayers for your family. 🙏

[@andyduke6847]

There is deep truth in the words of wisdom you share here ma'am. For someone who has been running it alone for close to 10 years now, the seasons of change you speak of most certainly come without fail. Thank you for enlightening everyone here and touching on a conversation everyone should sit and engage in... Peace and Love my friend...

[@HilltopFarmHomestead]

Oh My Goodness! Your family are certainly being tested aren't they? You hang in there Sweetheart. Sending all the positive energy in the world to James right now and big hugs for the rest of your family too.

[@PriscillaSwaney]

You are so wise for your age. Your hubby, you and the kids are in my prayers. Your advice is the real steps we need to take throughout our life. I was working a great job, been married for 36 years, taking care of my mom. Everything hit at once. Found out I was being divorced, 4 months later cancer hit, so on my 60th birthday, I lost a kidney. Praises I was able to return to work and still take care of my elderly mom but had no family nearby. Then mom's health began to fail, with my recurring health problems, I had to take my retirement at 62. Six months before I retired I began prepping for hard times (thank goodness), but I had been so busy keeping my house up and taking care of mom I hadn't planted even a tomato plant for 10 years. It has been hard years, one person doing everything that two had shared for so many years, but with the Lord's help, prayers and my having been raised on a farm, I have a garden that supplies most my food, I have the skills to sew/do alterations/any type of office skills, I can live on my SS retirement. I had followed my husband's employment or worked from home all those years, so I had no other retirement. I got no support because I was working and he was retired, things are fair. So folks listen to Miss Patara she is a full-time homesteader and knows the ins & outs. If you are getting toward retirement age, start preparing before your health retires on you. Wanda and Danny are preparing, however, health emergencies have crept in on them, so now they must put their preparation into high gear. Same thing happened to me. We have so many others that have experienced unforeseen life changing emergencies. Savings might sustain you for about 10 years, then you start looking for things to sell but if the roof needs repairs or your vehicle dies on you, you could be still in the flood waters with no paddle as the old saying goes. Plans & everyday skills will sustain you as does food and your faith in Prayers to your higher being. I am praying that we all continue to be a supporting group and will help each of us survive so we can live this homesteading life. Priscilla

[@JamesCouch777]

Bless you for sharing. There are very few people that have the fortitude you have.

[@pmessinger]

Dearest Patara, I hadn't seem many of your videos; only a few for information about chickens and such, but when I watched your recent discussion of you and your husband's struggles. Your honesty and openness was so much like sitting with a close friend that I was personally moved in so many ways that I haven't been in a very long time. I'd forgotten much about sharing so personally with someone. Thank you so much for a much needed dose of undiluted humanity. I needed it to renew my appreciation of having close friends.

[@denisehoog3019]

So sorry to hear about your husband. I can relate and totally understand what you are going through. We are just getting started with our homestead in our 50's and my husband was recently diagnosed with chronic leukemia. That means a lot of doctors appointments, some times when my husband just needs rest all while being a caretaker for my 90 year old father. I have definitely decided to scale back and only do what I can handle. Taking care of my health is becoming a priority so I can keep up. Thank you for this video, I'm glad I'm not alone.

[@happyfeetacres3397]

I like your KZbin channel, very informative for me... Am homesteading alone after my husband passed away, but I don't do it full force unlike yours... I turn it into a backyard homesteading .. I have chickens and vegetables.. more manageable as I work full time... but am selling my place to move to a slightly much bigger land, non restrictive...

[@sajmt1414]

Praying for your husband and family. Hugs.

[@megsmith3526]

We've just completed our first year homesteading. : ) By God's grace! My husband popped his hip out of it's socket and his been on crutches for almost a month. What a great way to see what all he does!!! :) My 15 year old son and I tried to pick up his load. HARD. It got me thinking just like you are. Thank you for your honesty. Keeping it real and your smile keep me coming back over and over! : )

[@tiki_t]

Patara thank you so much for your videos. I want to give you another perspective on what you are doing/experiencing from the perspective of being the spouse that hit a life threatening situation and was down for the count. Having family, plants and animals is what helped with my recovery. They were my physical therapy, they were my thing to look forward to, they kept my spirits high, kept me optimistic and well balanced. And trust me, believing you can get through a health crisis is a powerful tool! Keep doing what you are doing. But with that said, make sure you have a person that you can talk to for moral support. Life threatening situations don't just happen to the person experiencing them but to their care providers too. Be proactive about keeping yourself in check, even if it means just inviting someone over for a cup of coffee or to work in the garden with you while you talk. Hugs, love and prayers. You are on the right track making contingency plans. Keep up the great work and thank you again for your youtube channel. You are a blessing.

[@laurelhegarty4961]

That is exactly what happened to me. It was me and my husbands dream to homestead and having that lifestyle, for us, for our kids. Well, things wound up with his health that he can not do A THING on the homestead, so its all me... I haven't stopped ( my goal is to live out our dream to the best of my ability) but I do limit myself, I don't want to but REALISTICALLY I cannot do it ALL!! Pacing and bringing yourself back down to earth in this situation is a MUST... because if you think you can take on it all and more all at once... nada! Thanks so much for this video, touches my life and heart quite personally

[@maryholder7032]

Praying for a good outcome for your husband, you & your family. May God bless you with strength & peace. I know He is there to support you all.

[@nancycoy9510]

Great video, Doug & Stacey talked about raised beds because they are getting older. We all age it is the circle of life for sure. I am 61 with rheumatoid arthritis & do container gardening I can no longer crawl on the ground. But I still get great joy with my containers. Prayers for your husband. It is a life changing thing for sure to even think you might have cancer. I was diagnosed with a very rare type of eyelid cancer this spring. I had reconstruction on my eyelid & no one can even tell now.

[@julieb7068]

Thank you so so much for this video. My dh and I just moved to our first homestead and we are in our late 40s. Your words are right on and a great resources for us just starting to set up our systems with aging coming down the road. Prayers for your husband and all the family.

[@DavidBrowningBYD]

I’ve just discovered your channel, and although I’m not a homesteader and not likely to become one soon, I’ve found your videos very useful and educational. But with these videos about the challenges you are facing, I am amazed at your strength. I hope you are taking care of yourself as well as you do your husband, your children, and your animals.

[@bihbgm5858]

You are so positive! Your family is lucky to have you to care for them. We will pray for you all during this time of trial. Thank you for all the informative videos.

[@laurieasmus9998]

Patera. Thx for always being real!! My homesteading journey is starting alone on about 3 acres. You touched on all things I've already thought about- low maintenance garden, fruit trees and berries, herbs, couple dozen chickens and a few goats. Great to have your wisdom confirm what I've been planning! Not too much to deal with. I'll be continuing to work as well, so will be gone about 6 hrs a day, so needs to be simple to maintain. Also the firearms advice- I'll be starting from scratch there but motivated to take care of myself. And a dog too.Love your channel- one of my favs. I'll be praying for your husband and you not having to do the journey alone!

[@debbiegallett1125]

I am praying for you. I lost my husband last year and am now alone running a campground, storage business, 3 horses, 10 head of beef cattle (with 9 calves currently), chickens, garden, etc. No family close but a few friends I absolutely rely on to fix electrical problems, castrate bull calves, etc. I can run the skid loader and most of the tools but I never learned to run the tractor, so that is my next goal. I also need to sell most of the cattle, but it is a hard decision. The hardest part is not having someone who knows the place like you do to discuss stuff and share with. Making all the big decisions on your own can be daunting.

[@julieb7068]

Debbie Gallett I'm sorry for you loss

[@3505khpruitt]

So sorry your having more stuff thrown at your family. I will be praying for all of yall. We have went through a few medical situations through the years some big some not. This is one thing we have to stay prepared for..it's alot!! Praying for the best results for James.

[@elaine4415]

Thanks for all the help and keeping it real😊

[@pagemoyer1467]

Thank you Patara for your insite. Homesteads or not your words fit all styles of like and folks.

[@janespal2729]

Prayers for your and your family, Patara. You are such an inspiration to me~

[@RiverBirchFarm]

Praying for your family and thank you, I do most of the taking care of our animals but my boys are grown with their families and we all live in a big house together on our 11 acres. I am very fortunes and sometimes we don't think about these kind of things so thank you for opening my eyes to the what if's that some day we all may face.

[@FrugalFarmerChannel]

Keeping you all in my Prayers.

[@sandhollowhomestead6972]

Great reflection of a look at "what if". You are wise for your age and you share your strengths wonderfully. That's why we love you so. God bless you and your family. Keep on keeping on!

[@rpaugh21]

I'll be praying for your family 💛

[@ravenwolf7128]

Such a great video to alert people to the potential difficulties of homesteading--and also great suggestions on what to focus on to homestead alone. I've been homesteading alone since my dad died of cancer. We bought land and started a farm together. I quickly became his caregiver and nearly burned out trying to raise my kids as a single mom, care for him, and homestead. We did goats, chickens, livestock dogs, orchard, raspberries. didn't even have time for a garden--this year we are finally starting seeds. I had my teenage son to help or never could have made it. Prayers for you and your family.

[@MsKalamity]

Well done. Love your generous heart. Admire your practical wisdom. Appreciate your encouraging approach. Good woman you ♥

[@gacha___cookie7736]

I totally hear you Patera, I'm sixty this month, my husband has severe back issues that required surgery and he cannot do anything, even lifting our grandchildren causes him severe pain. I am disabled and too am very limited with what I can do and even using my lawn mower I feel is killing me, especially in this heat. So, we must begin setting $ aside to pay for our lawn care now. Our kids are all grown and doing their own thing and moved away, so I have noone I can call upon to help do these things. I love having a few chickens, because I do love my fresh yard eggs, but handling the fifty pound bags of feed is to much for my heart condition. I have begun to seek veggies like longevity spinach that will keep coming back, you are being wise and realistic with the future, and this is a great video. Trust me it gets so much harder the older you get. Thnx for sharing.

[@janie2shoes537]

We are going through the same thing. Prayers !!!

[@janinejohnson1898]

Sending positive thoughts and gentle hugs to get you thru the next weeks. It's true, living the dream is not always living life but the dreams keep us inspired. Love your channel and although I live near the beach in San Diego I still have picked up inspiration and ideas and recipes from you!

[@tammyhall999]

Thank you for making this video. You brought up some great points, which made me look at some things differently. Im going to start making some changes to where I can run things by myself if needed.

[@johnrenterprises2604]

Good points for both women and men to consider during the seasons of their life. I had some health issues come up unexpectedly last year. The surgery was a complete success and my recovery has been truly blessed by the Lord. Stronger and more stamina than I have had in years. Not much I can't do now. But I worry my wife would have a difficult time here if something happened to me. It is something we are preparing for. If you live in the country you have to be armed and be capable to use them. Your stock and place looks well cared for. I will add you both to my prayer list, thank you for the videos Patara!

[@joycebarnett3954]

Patara, I and my son are praying for your husband for a complete healing. And that there will be no residual from whatever. I hope and pray that all will be sustained on the homestead and that nothing will have to be gotten rid of. I want to tell you how proud I am of you to stand for integrity. When our children see this they will learn it as well. As you are teaching these great characteristics to young people they will take it with them into their adult lives. "Raise them up in the ways of the Lord, and they will not stray from them." Great attributes to teach children today. Most parents don't care and they should. God bless you and yours and God's health to all. Love ya Joyce

[@donmartin9813]

dear sister in Christ Jesus do not be afraid me and my wife will pray for you and your husband my wife had brain cancer and could have passed away but the Lord Jesus took that cancer out of her the doctors were shocked it's been 6 year's ago He The Lord is your healer God Bless you

[@humblewarrior6585]

Hallelujah Amen !!!

[@CarolReidCA]

Amen

[@virginia7191]

Keeping you in my prayers.

[@lindahime5628]

love you all and praying.

[@melanieobasi3316]

To add to "know how to use the equipment" also know where everything is. When my husband had a stroke a few years ago I had a general direction of where to find our spring house (up the mountain on another person's property) but wasn't sure where to look when we had a problem. Thankfully we had a back up water source and neighbors who helped me get that going but I never could find the original.

[@donnajean5288]

Praying for you and your family. Peace and Blessings.

[@Mendingheartshomestead]

I’m a single mom and have begun doing research on at least having a couple acres and having some space to grow a lot of my own food (plant and animal). I don’t think I’d be up for having as much as you do, but I’m glad you are so open with this sort of thought process.

[@CNH320TD]

You are all in my prayers. Your wisdom is inspiring. May God bless you.

[@cassiewilkins2602]

Thank you for being so "real", Patara. Continued prayers for you and your family sweetie. Blessings

[@nanasanerd1741]

Praying for your husband and family. My husband has recently been diagnosed with heart failure so I have had similar thoughts about things I would have to change if he was either no longer able to help or even no longer here. Thank you for sharing these intimate parts of your life to aid others. Know that you are not alone. Bless you.

[@taniaeitel7623]

Thank you for keeping it real as usual. Will keep you and James, as well as the boys, in prayer.

[@MsCaterific]

Authenticity, how refreshing. Thank you for being you. Namaste= the light in me sees the light in you.

[@pjd2709]

You are so right in all of this! My DH passed suddenly, and yes there are many things that change your life. Yes to the lawn mower, the garage door code, just so many things...? You are all in my prayer's, good vibes coming your way!

[@riverrat1747]

Prayers for James an your family. Love that your real.

[@kathycox8275]

I thank you for being brave enough to talk about this. My husband has been dealing with cardiomyopathy for the past 5 years. Just got a pacemaker but it hasn't made his heart stronger And I am going in next week to see what the surgeon says about the hernia. Our 2.5 acres has never looked like this - like a bomb went off. I've almost guven up - now I'll have to rethink things.

[@theherbalsanctuary811]

Thank you for prioritizing things. I have been mulling that over. Prayers for you and your husband....sending healing thoughts.

[@jameyhenderson7271]

Wonderful video. You are a beautiful and wonderful lady. I understand how you feel. I am a disabled vet, dad, grandfather, and i have cancer and live alone. Thankful to God my cancer is in remission but still fighting fatigue. Hopefully i will be able to work soon. I really enjoyed your video. I subscribed and will watch the others. Cancer treatment is tough physically and emotionally. I live alone with no job so i pray alot and have close family to help me. I don't know you but i would say you are not a quitter. I am not either but its tough when you live alone and don't have someone to give you a hug. That is important. Hang in there. I know your husband is very proud of you and i can see why. Looking forward to your other videos. Thank you for making these videos. God bless you and your family.

[@estherpowell2372]

Very timely whether you are a homesteading woman or not. My thoughts are with you as I travel a similar path with a Mister who is battling health issues. Homesteading is very therapeutic in some ways, nothing like getting sweaty and dirty to keep you grounded ! Hang in there.

[@johnkulcsar5801]

Your family will be on our thoughts, hearts, spirit & prayers for daily fortitude during your journey. Thanks for 'opening up' and sharing your daily life, it's challenges and blessings.

[@kareleebear1]

Prayers for you and your family....thank you for your time and your wisdom. God Bless.

[@blacksheep11277]

What can I say? God love ya Patera! Here you are with your own stresses and you are trying to help us out. You have great character! My family and I will be praying for you and yours. Continued strength through every journey and that this biopsy turns out to be nothing much. Take care! :)

[@LilMsPIA]

Praying for you and yours. Thanks for being so transparent and showing us REAL LIFE!

[@mobjackcalling8568]

Ty We have had similar challenges and fortunately one of us always able to do chores , Efforts to streamline all ongoing . You Guys are in our prayers

[@ladyb003]

Prayers for James, you and your family. Unfortunately real life is more than a challenge. Thank you for doing a video on this subject. I am alone at this point in my life, and when I get my place in the country, I'll keep the animals to a manageable minimum. Thank you for sharing. Take care

[@amyr505]

Thank you for this video! I am a 62 year old female . My husband is disabled and we are going to be starting a homestead next year. The information you provided was spot on for me. Thanks again!

[@sondrajackson3171]

I will continue to pray for your family. Blessings

[@TomiaMacQueen]

This was handsdown THE BEST homesteading video I have seen. Thank you so much! From a mom, wife and homesteader

[@kaytandbluebear8411]

Thanks for your thoughts. Hope all goes well for you and your family!

[@arlenelogan6397]

my prayers are with you !!

[@PilgrimLJC]

Praying for you and your family, Patera.

[@fred4513]

THANK YOU PATARA, God will bless you and see you through your trying times!!! You must have unbelievable faith in God, because Your mindset and energy level is balistic. Whatever You doing today he is by your side!!! God has blessed you in many ways! You are a inspiration to all who you come across!!!

[@herwoofnessbostonterrier3420]

Much love and prayers for all your family, but especially your husband as he goes through his biopsy. I am thanking your friends and fellow homesteaders that have been able to lend a hand when you need it most with prayers of thanks. Please know that I watch all your posts even though I don't always comment. I don't want to make this any more of a chore by making you think you must respond. You are an inspiration and a positive influence on my life and I am sure many others feel the same. I finally saw the picture of your handsome boys, fine young men in the making! As always, love and best wishes to your family, including all the critters! Jane and her wacky sidekick Lola, the Boston Terrier

[@gilbertmondia2455]

Prayers to you and your husband and hope for a speedy recovery

[@jddirtfarmer3128]

I just came across this video and it hit right on what is happening in my life at this time. I took my husband to the hospital with what turned out to be cellulitis. I spent the night and came home to rack and roll hay for our 40 head of cattle. Upon my return to the hospital 2 days later he was no longer responsive. I thought I was going to lose him. 6 weeks later he still has not returned home. It is up to me to hay and grain the cattle, take care of the chickens and work my full time job. I'm not young. You are correct. No one knows what life will deal to you. I love the farm and leave for work after feeding wishing I could just stay here on the farm. 4 more years and everything will be paid👍 To all the wom out there she is right! You must learn how to operate the equipment if you are to keep the homestead going in situations like this!

[@kellylynch3775]

I love you for keeping it real. Will pray for your husband and family for strength and wisdom. Health and blessings.

[@NaturalLivingHomestead]

Thank you for the realization, we have experienced one spouse being down for a bit and boy, it's an eye opener! Praying for your husband and family!

[@truepatriot123]

God bless you Patara !!! Praying for your husband and family....

[@michellehite6235]

Thanks! I lost my husband to Cancer back in Sept, and I never learned to operate the equipment and now well! You have your head and preparing yourself for whatever life brings great stuff. Life and death can hit hard you have to have what it takes to hit back.

[@appalachiashomesteadwithpatara]

Praying for you!!

[@workinonit9562]

So many good points, we have been selling unused stuff and cleaning out barns this summer, trying to make life more simple. We do not expand our efforts b/c of our age, it would be nice to pair up with a younger family, we have equipment and they would have youth but noone is interested in hard work like this. Praying for you, your husband and family.

[@patriotpermaculture1205]

Very good advice. We're facing very similar issues and we will hold you up in prayer. Everything that we do moving forward with our sustainability projects is with the forethought that it may well become a one woman show. Again, very timely advice. Thank you for keeping it real. Blessings~

[@mullinsp3]

Thank you so much for your encouragement. We live in a small rental near to beach, but we are slowly working toward a farm life. We are working on all the skills we can learn now and planning for the future. It is your encouragement that motivated us to start smart and to start now. We are praying for your family. Thank you!

[@satee4821]

I married my husband while he was chronically ill. It has been very difficult sometimes. But it made me such a strong person. Great tips in the video!

[@ellenspn]

Prayers heading your way!!!

[@yvonnejohnson2109]

Great video. I like how you are honest but having to do things on your owe and that you can do things

[@tommathews3964]

Smart lady! All my best to your family! Prayers for good news for your husband!