How Do We Move Forward After This?

I've been thinking a lot about why we're homesteading, why we're here on this property and if we can stay on this property long term. It got me thinking about you and what you're here for. Trying to get our focus and plans on moving forward.

[@pobo6113]

I am a 71 year old widow and I’m homesteading on 1/4 acre. You need to define homesteading. Yes, I would love to have more land, but that probably isn’t in the picture. I have chickens, rabbits, and a growing garden. I am wanting a sheep for milk, but I have not figured that out yet. It is just me and my dog so I don’t need much. KZbin is many things to me. Education and entertainment for 2. I have learned the hard way that not everyone on KZbin knows what they’re talking about. So I stay with channels that have proven their knowledge. That’s why I’m still with you. So Thanks for all you do.

[@hoosierpioneer]

Hey, me too! I am widowed, 67, some walking issues, have 24 acres, thinking about milking sheep, a market gardener learning to be good at it. I feel bad that I have all this unutilized space while so many dream of it. My vision is to find a young family with similar goals. I'm not selling though, I've structured my whole life to have this place and my soul lives here.

[@janicescott-reederking6536]

I'm 73, with multiple health issues and a recent widow. Keeping animals is out of the question in suburbia and for health reasons but I can be a vegetarian. I need to squeeze every ounce of area to the max including indoor gardening. I'm in the South Florida sub-tropical climate, zone 11, and that is a challenge. No matter what the propaganda that is being shared, it is now in the 80's and the heat will not cease until December. It's been in the 80's since mid February so I'm going to have to grow indoors. But, you inspire me to push the limits. Keep up the good work.

[@strongereveryday1891]

I'm divorced with 2 kids and same situation. I have chickens and I'm adding rabbits this year. I also want sheep. I feel like having the amount of land I do makes me more focused on how to use my space. I think more land would make me a bit scattered. Now everything is contained. I only have 3 acres but I'm learning that you can do a lot with a small amount of land. My friend only has 1 acre and she has chickens and dogs and an awesome garden.

[@TerraGarten-cl8iz]

I would love to see an experienced person's perspective on homesteading. Do you have any suggestions?

[@sarahkopy6282]

I am exactly in your boat. I am 71 and have one dog and some chickens....

[@evelynbrooks4436]

Thinking that you don't have a "real" homestead because it's small is like thinking you don't have a real home because it's 1,200 Sq ft instead of 5000 sq ft. It's so not about how many acres you have but rather what you do with them. Your channel is both needed and appreciated. Keep up the good work. And I am really glad your eyes have been opened. 😉

[@MariaPerez-ke8cx]

YOU INSPIRE THOSE WHO CANT AFFORD THE LARGE HOMESTEAD. You help those work with what they have. The problem with some HOMESTEAD channels is that it isn't realistic to the majority of folks. There are more people who can't afford than those who can. We appreciate you

[@ilsesmith9493]

YT had, for the first time since I started watching it, made a recommendation which is good. They recommended your channel 2 days ago. This is the first channel which I think understands that not all of us are in the financial position to do certain things (although I wish I did have the money and space available) and show us what we CAN do with our limited funds and space. I want to thank you for that. I am still working towards becoming self-sufficient, but now I am optimistic that I'll be able to do it.

[@Nightowl-72]

I’m 51 and husband is 61. We downsized our big home on small block to a small cottage on 1/4 acre. It’s enough room for us to have many fruit trees and vege beds. To me to have this much space in the garden is a luxury that I truly appreciate 🏡

[@jenn9579]

I'm 67 and married. No family left except my husband. I'm a quilter, canner and have a garden. We have 1/4 acre land. I have 4 raised beds, 20 containers and i have a purpose in life now with my gardening. Besides saving me from depression i will survive with what I've learned.

[@juliephelps7616]

You are an inspiration.

[@fionaharvey2720]

Jenn you sound like me my situation is so similar! I love my raised beds and last year bought a huge greenhouse which is perfect for the climate in n Ireland! Keep gardening and having fun

[@jenn9579]

​​@@fionaharvey2720 I'm sure lots of people are in our situation. I was so afraid of being alone it brought on depression. But keeping busy with my garden and other things its helped a lot. I wish you joy and happiness and may your garden show you much love.❤

[@kimstrating8511]

Yes, yes, yes! Glass half full and work what you have to the nib! Share the fun and the trials, as most of us are doing the same! ❤

[@WinkTartanBelle]

Many people are stuck in an urban or suburban location for one reason or another. Some are financially constrained. Some are in a health situation, dealing with disabilities, or elderly. Some have no family or friends, or none willing to help them. Showing what can be done in these situations and on less land than the traditional homestead, seems an incredibly needed and important mission to me. I feel like you've got your head and your heart now in the right place. Excited to see what follows.

[@nanarose3496]

Beautifully said!❤

[@littlehomesteadbigdreams]

Thank you so much!

[@lyndelgado6138]

My situation on so many levels- age, money, suburban environment n health n mobility constraints. I really love ur help! N i liked tulip lasagna! ;)

[@milliethemillinator3154]

❤ AAAAAAMEN!

[@KimMorgan-z3r]

Love your channel and found you when I was looking for help doing container gardening in downtown Charlotte many years ago. I grew up as a farmer. We grew what we ate. Even ground our own feed and raised our own meat. I 100% believe in everything you are doing. My life changed when I had a life changing autoimmune disease. It’s made me look at everything differently. God bless you and your family.

[@lindagowin7270]

I’m here exactly for the reasons you mentioned-education and entertainment. I’m 74 years and constantly learn from you. I appreciate everything you do and love the fact that you are so real and that you are not afraid to show who you really are. Thank you, Brian. You make my day.

[@littlehomesteadbigdreams]

Thank you so much 😊

[@lanajackson3730]

Morning Brian, I’m 81, great grandma, who has gardened since I was 8 years old. We sold our mini farm 8 years ago, because it was just too much to take care of all the 1.25 acre. Now back in town, with neighbors 15’ on each side of you, takes a bit getting use to. But my dear husband has made me raised beds for raising food. If I didn’t have dirt to dig in, That would be the end for me. I love your channel, especially your English cottage barn. Education for so many things and the honest stories of your life, brings a lot of comfort, to so many life’s! Keep going and do what you do best - things are going to get better! 👍🏻💕🌻🌸🌼🦋

[@skywatcher6864]

Brian, I'm a fairly new viewer, and I love EVERY video you make! When I was growing up, most guys my age, were chasing gals; I was hunting, fishing, and GARDENING! I couldn't do much makin' out on the back of a bicycle! 🤣 I hope I can encourage you with a few words. I don't mean to brag, but to encourage you and others... it is possible do a lot with so little. I live on 1.3 acres, and shortly after buying it (over 20 years ago), I put a lot of time and money into landscaping it, instead of building a house first. I'm not a homesteader as such, but I've done a lot with this little piece of land that God so graciously provided for me. On last count, I have 41 HUGE PJM rhodies, 17 large-flowered rhodies, 14 azaleas, mock orange shrubs, several forsythias, lilacs, several other flower beds, huge bearded Irises, roses, magnificent magnolias, pines, maples, cherry trees, a pear tree, etc.. All this has been a labor of love for those who visit, for my neighbors, and for those who drive by. To me, it's no park; I've seen much nicer (yours!). It's not the size that matters; it's how much YOU enjoy it, and what you want to do with it! It's our temporary little piece of "borrowed" Heaven! It's all "in the eye of the beholder"! They see beauty, I sometimes see weeds and work... screaming to be done! With motivation, creativity, a few dollars, and "end of season" bargains, a person can do so much with so little! Numerous people have stopped by to take pictures or to compliment. One young man even asked if he could use my property pics on postcards he was going to make! Of course, I let him do it. I've never seen them, but I hope he had fun making them! I'm not at all ashamed of what God has loaned to me, and the creativity He has blessed me with. Like you, I worked hard to get all these things planted, and I still work to maintain them. I've had to let some beds grass over because it was too much for one guy to look after. But ohhhhh...the rewards of heavenly heady scents, and glorious colors...all coming from the same little piece of BROWN dirt continues to amaze and to bless me and others to no end! I live in Nova Scotia, Kanadastan (formerly "Canada"). We have cold winters and short growing seasons, but that doesn't hold me back! On one of my side lawns, I have a VERY large Koi pond (approx. 1/3 acre) and a waterfall I made. Wild ducks and geese drop in throughout the year. I used to breed and raise six or seven breeds of pheasants and doves here; so beautiful! I had free range chickens that used to entertain myself and others with their chicks. Deer and bear occasionally drop in. I've provided a lovely home for two German Shepherds, and homes for many wild birds...and dreaded snapping turtles! I have a bridge that crosses my pond, and a very beautiful pagoda on the far end of it, with a huge Thomas Theatre organ inside. I provided wedding music for those who've had their weddings here. Others have had prom or family pics taken on this 1.3 acres. Like you, I love being a blessing to others, and this is a small way I can do that! Serving God, and serving others, is definitely the source to true joy! Your property is Heaven, compared to my place. Again, it's all "in the eye of the beholder", so be encouraged! Perhaps allowing people to have wedding and prom pics taken at your property will help to augment your income, your contentment, and satisfaction of being a blessing to others. I'd die for your property! Be encouraged, dear Brother! I watch your videos for entertainment, inspiration, and to encourage you. Nobody wants to invest time and energy making videos that few will watch and enjoy, so here I am. Here WE ARE! Your heart's in the right place! Keep on doin'! God bless you, Emily, and Noah...REAL GOOD! PS: Praying for your health situation. You'll do just fine!@@littlehomesteadbigdreams

[@Brineytoes]

You came to a fork in the road, and determined which path to take. You found the right one for you and we get to follow you, and that’s just incredible! I’m no homesteader with 3 Rubbermaid totes in the back yard and a couple of herbs in the front bed. But at 81, I have such a need to get my hands in the dirt and plant something to eat later, and something beautiful that brings me joy. When I can’t do that all winter, I like to watch you do chores, interact with Emily and Noah, Daisy and that gorgeous beast of a dog. It brings me peace, which I need after I lost my youngest son to cancer last year. He was your age. He used to help me with my gardening chores that were too heavy for me. My next level, hopefully, will be a move to a tiny house community where there is a community garden. Or at least a stock tank raised garden. I learned a lot from your book about companion planting and I practice what you preach. On opposite sides of the country, we are in the same zone, so I watch your monsteras like a hawk! Mine made it through the winter well, too! Whatever lies ahead for this 81 year old, I’ll have a trowel in one hand and my iPad in the other, watching you garden. Keep watch on the political scene as it affects all of us in this country. It may threaten you more on the left coast than it will me on the right coast. Be careful. Be ready for whatever comes.

[@robinc7235]

I'm on .93 acres with 5 chickens and a growing garden, with both brand new raised beds and older fabric grow pots. My husband isn't "into" anything that has to do with growing anything outside, lol, so it's all me. I'm almost 57 and am really starting to feel the aging process kicking into high gear as far as aches and pains but gardening has become pure therapy for me and I love it. I come to your channel for education and inspiration. Thanks for both!

[@robinc7235]

Update.... I added 2 new hens to my little flock 2 weeks ago so now I have 7. And I can hardly wait for the weather to warm up here in central NC! 🌻

[@veronicastephens8501]

Brian, I found you looking for help with tomato gardening. But I am still here because of you! You are so much more than a gardening expert. You and your family, highs and lows, success and failures, for better or worse togetherness. I am grateful to be part of your adventure. Wherever you are, make it your classroom is brilliant. And you do it so well. Thank you

[@littlehomesteadbigdreams]

Thank you!

[@justynwolf6402]

you said it so well! there might be a variety of reasons we came to the channel, but we stay "BECAUSE OF YOU". Couldn't have said it better.

[@youngestkid2674]

Same here, found the garden channel and love this new channel!

[@carriebeard-R.I.T.S]

Same here!!!

[@joannbaumann4028]

Try heirloom black tomatoes!

[@sndynystrom]

I’ve never once thought that you were an imposter by homesteading! I think you are much more relevant in today’s world since most people do not have the opportunity to purchase more land to expand. Showing what can be accomplished with a limited amount of land is invaluable! The fact that you do so much with the property that you have is pretty darn amazing. I wouldn’t be able to relate at all to someone is homesteading 30 acres. Your energy and motivation is certainly infectious and I’ve learned, and am still learning, a heck of a lot about gardening and being self sufficient in your videos. Keep up the great work!!

[@littlehomesteadbigdreams]

Thank you

[@charmc4152]

Well said - particularly with regard to the relevance in today's world of small scale and backyard homesteads. That may be the wave of the future as people try to get a better handle on their health and grocery budgets. There may be a lot more of finding resourceful ways to get more out of using whatever you have available to you to eat better.

[@GrantStreetGarden]

I agree 100%!

[@suemcculley7073]

Relevant. That's the best way to describe you and your channel ❤ thanks

[@anniefarr2633]

You should never feel that you're not helping others like myself! Your years of experience in growing a garden is monumental in helping us all learn the right way. I'm 73 and just starting out in vegetable gardening, so it's never too late to learn from awesome experts like yourself. I love your honest by the way. Keep it up!!!

[@brendajackson294]

Exactly

[@littlehomesteadbigdreams]

Thank you!

[@lesliedurst60]

I'm 72 and 73 in August. I've been watching your channel since the early days. You're living everyone's dream. I like your up-front style and honesty . I bought my first (old) house when I was 23. The lot was 75'X225'. Not much room,but it was to be mine after 10 years. After about 17 years I wanted more space to do much more than I was limited to. At 36 I bought 40 acres in North Florida. It's been my life and I could write a book on all the ups and 😊do

[@lesliedurst60]

Downs, good times and bad. Mom came to live on the farm and I took care of her till she passed in 2014. I did a lot but fell short of my dreams. No regrets. It's time to move on. I don't know how to quit, but I have face the facts. 15 years ago I had toxic mold in trailer home that almost killed me. I had sell half my farm to financially survive. The 20 I have left is still a little paradise. I grow and have grown all kinds of flora and it's coming along quite well. But time is closing in. I hope somone will take it an

[@lesliedurst60]

and run with it. The basics are done. All that's needed is TLC and the love and determination. I'm starting to ramble but that's what's been going on. Thanks for all you do. It's been very inspiring and down-right fun watching your life bloom before our eyes. That's for letting us tag along. Les Durst

[@briarmunro]

All 3! I just have a small backyard. But there are 4 raised beds and this year I’m adding pots to the deck to take things to “the next level” 😊

[@kristenm7380]

I'm 39, and I'm on 1.5 acres. I, too, have been looking around thinking it's not big enough. Regarding the shame, I heard someone say a homesteader is anyone who does something at home instead. So you're absolutely right - that could be somebody growing their herbs on a balcony, or someone putting up beans for the year. I'm here for the information and inspiration. I love the knowledge and thought that you put behind your videos, and I appreciate your real life perspective. I love that you've been talking about the state of the world (things like the news saying backyard gardening is bad for the environment), and your journey to here. Let's walk together!

[@michelleutzman]

I'm homesteading on .7 acres. IT CAN BE DONE. I have 4 mini Nubians, ducks, chickens, quail, meat rabbits, a barn and a high tunnel with a garden surrounding it. It just takes organization and creativity. You're an inspiration. Keep going!

[@littlehomesteadbigdreams]

Thank you

[@dianebeckner884]

Love it! We have the same acreage. Nubian would be awesome, but city restrictions hamper. We do have chickens, garden, orchard, fruit bushes, etc That aside, you inspire me to up my game!

[@etet4536]

I bought one acre of land in 2020 because I could see things were changing in my country and the world, and not for the better. We turned our land into food gardens, orchards, berry patches and a lovely place for chickens. When you bought your property and said you were getting a mini cow, my daughter and I watched with anticipation to see how it would work out, because we thought...if you can do it, why can't we? I also regret not buying more land but we're on the hunt, because like you, we want to be even more self-sustaining. I watch your channel for all the reasons you mentioned, keep it up, and thanks for the inspiration!

[@littlehomesteadbigdreams]

Thank you so much 😊

[@jelena8357]

God bless you.

[@nimabevis4509]

Hi Brian! I came here initially for education. I'm a lifelong learner, and always look to add to my store of knowledge. But, I found much more than that here. I'm entertained by your animals and your personality. And I'm inspired by every single video. Whether it's from your little bits of wisdom, or a different variety of flowers that you're using in one of your gardens, I come away feeling like "I can do that!" Thanks for all that you do. Never doubt a thing. You're doing exactly what you need to do, in a way that entertains, inspires AND educates us. ❤

[@cathycarruthers7401]

I 100% agree with what was said ☝🏼Sorry, I have no idea where this LONG comment will end up😳 I found your channel several years ago looking for help with my tomatoes and here we are…. And now my husband and I watch your video’s together, both channels so you can count my subscription as TWO😂 I have dreams of being a gardener but quite frankly suck at it😂 My husband and I are both 65 this year and have been living on 2.67 acre property for 38 years where we have raised our family with no plans to move or downsize. Thanks to you we are fencing this year and getting started on doing meat birds and who knows what else we’ll add in the next couple of months… We will still need a dog🙃 Thanks to you and your family for sharing your lives, and knowledge with all of us out here! You are truly an inspiration♥️

[@littlehomesteadbigdreams]

Thank you!

[@alicelaber2068]

You said it for me!

[@lisalee4550]

First you are an inspiration and educator to me. I don’t have any acres just a 2 bedroom apartment but I hope to have some land one day and I don’t want a lot of land to live on so I’m learning what I can do on an acre from you. I don’t think it matters how much land you’re on but what you can accomplish on it. If you are fully self sufficient on a little land then I say homestead ahead.

[@marygoodsell3602]

Thank you! I watch you on your gardening channel, just subscribed on this. I love all of what you said, you inspire me and, yes, it's entertaining too. I have 5+ acres and do stuff on a small scale. I love what you said about the milk cow. ❤❤❤❤

[@stephengregory7953]

[Stephen’s wife, Laura] I got chills and nearly cried hearing your conversation with the planner you met with. We live in exactly 1 1/2 acres and found you through the School of Traditional Skills. In our financially difficult times we are going through, we had to quit our membership there. So your videos fill the gap for us for our need for 3.) Education and also 2.) Inspiration. The planting/gardening “HOW TO’s” and the family milk cow video “how to’s” probably the most helpful to us! Until we heard you have exactly the same 1 1/2 acres as we do, we thought we didn’t have enough property for a family milk cow. But I am so relieved to see it CAN and IS being done! You are WAY more than an inspiration - you are a facilitator of self-sufficiency for those of us who want to be producers for our family. How can “Thank you” be enough? May God bless you in all your endeavors! Thank you, my friend! ❤️

[@littlehomesteadbigdreams]

Wow! ❤️ that means so much!

[@janeseboosinger565]

I am inspired and love seeing the projects your doing. I don't have much land I live in a small town with 1 1/2 lots I'm gardening and have 6 chickens but for the 2 of us that's plenty. I'm not able to be a traditional homesteader but I'm able to supplement some of our needs. Thank you for your since of humor and inspiration.

[@vbfit1247]

I couldn’t say it better!

[@lyndacouyette5669]

Brian, I started watching you years ago for gardening. I've always had a green thumb, but you're never too old to learn something new. I follow you now because I fell in love with you and your family. I'm a 67 year old veteran and was financially comfortable until I lost one of my houses, my home . I have no husband or children and no regrets. My brother and his wife found it more convenient to travel to Mexico to help charities with my donations than to send me a card. My sister poisoned the well decades ago. May she rest in peace. This message isn't intended to dust them up or bring you down but lift you up. I am grateful for your videos. They provide entertainment, education, inspiration, and love. I look forward to your projects and creativity. I love the animals. You are do exactly what you should be doing until your next adventure. Keep going strong. I can't tell you how much I love you, and by reading the comments, I'm not the only one.

[@rebabs]

Im 75 and have only been gardening since COVID. My success is minimal, but i love it. I also love that, although you don’t know me, you allow me to be in your family's life. You are honest and humble and i need friends like that. I am enjoying all of your videos on both of your channels and have started viewing past vlogs that ive missed. Im excited to see what is in your future and will continue to follow all of your family's 'adventures'. 🌺

[@debralauesen4225]

Yep, well said, I feel the same way

[@littlehomesteadbigdreams]

Thank you

[@johnroell7173]

I am in my mid 50's. I am here for all three. I live on a tiny lot in a smaller city. However using many of your ideas I have started to reimagine my small lot and what I can do with it.

[@nickhfda223]

Everything I know about growing I learned from you and Luke over on MiGarnder. I'm only on 1 acre, but I grew a ton and a half of moschata pumpkins in in a 32x8 planting zone with trellises and letting the vines ramble in an area maybe 60x30ft, and I wasnt even at maximum effort...I think I can get to 2 tons in that space if I put my mind to it. I haul almost 100 pounds of potatoes out of a 4x8 raised bed, same with sweet potatoes. I have more muskmelons, watermelons, cukes, peppers, onions, garlic, beans, and tomatoes than I can possibly eat or even can, and I run a pretty banging winter garden too. This year I'm attempting to grow 2 rounds of 105 corn plants in a 4x8 bed. All that, and I've barely tapped 1/4 of the potential of this measly little acre I am stuck on thanks to market forces. Sometimes you gotta make the stand where you are...space is just another problem to solve. It's the process we're all here for.

[@littlehomesteadbigdreams]

So true!!

[@Naddrose]

I watch you for 1,2,3 but mainly because you have become part of my life. I enjoy watching you and your family and all your struggles. You make me feel Normal in an abnormal world.

[@nanarose3496]

Truth!❤

[@TooMid]

This part! 👆🏽

[@knottyneedle]

Scrolling through the comments, I realized I am not the only 60+ who is on a 1/4 acre or a bit less and want to maximize what I have. So I am here for inspiration and education. I grew up with the 'get out the tiller' and till up the garden in the spring, everything in long rows. Over the years I have grown in containers on balconies to small raised beds. Now I'm in my 'forever' home and want to have the garden - which includes fruit trees, veg garden, herbs and flowers-of my dreams. No animals as I have 3 inside cats and 2 large dogs...enough livestock for me.

[@wordwalkermomma4]

You can grow dwarf fruit trees and shrubs in pots; just keep them pruned to your space.

[@lliefveld]

73 year old lifetime gardener here. Originally gardened in my flower beds on a city lot. Moved to 25 acres, but most of it wild, with flower beds around the house and a 1/4 acre vegetable/herb garden that never got fully utilized. Now I'm on 55+ acres - again, mostly wild, with smallish gardens and raised beds around the house. I originally started watching the gardening channel for education. Somehow found the homestead channel and was initially not interested in it because it wasn't particularly educational. Now, I enjoy the homestead channel more than the gardening channel, because it inspires me to do more than just garden around our place. I totally understand the desire to have more land. However, I don't think you have run out of room yet. You have so much land that you haven't been able to fully utilize yet. You moved because you ran out of space. You still have so much space to utilize. I totally enjoy watching you develop those spaces. You work your a** off. Wish I were younger so I could still do that much work.

[@dinkherring2213]

Brian, I'm here for #5. All the above, plus the fact that you share your mental journey with us. Sometimes you beat yourself up over that, but we all do and it's really reassuring to know we are not alone in our struggles to hold on to a semblance of sanity in this insane world. So many channels out there feel boastful to me, with the "look at the amount of food I have stored" and "I've got 12 freezers full of meat" and "I have 40 acres" type of comments. They show new equipment or gadgets while many of us are out here budgeting for seeds and potting soil. You're out here showing us how much we can pack in to small spaces and still get a high yield. I'll leave you with one little thing, totally unrelated to this video, but something you might not have considered. Cows can jump. Back in the Dark Ages when we farmed, we had a massive Charolais bull who made a game out of jumping the fence in and out of the pasture. Luckily he was still on our property, but he had a favorite spot to jump out (fence was high) then he'd walk about 30 feet to a low spot and hop back in. He would spend about 30 minutes a day doing this. Don't underestimate Daisy's skills, lol!

[@bobvolsario1224]

I’m 63 and have been gardening for way over 30 yrs. I live in NYC and have a 30x100 piece of property with a small raised beds and many containers. I only discovered your channel about 6 months ago but I’ve learned more in those 6 months from you than I did in 30 yrs. Thank you.

[@jenniferjsaracino]

When I started watching the main garden channel it was to learn. But this channel is more inspiring and entertaining. When I started I had 30 sp feet of a backyard in Vegas, now on 5 acres in eastern Oregon. I grew up on an acre and you can do a LOT on that size property to be self-sufficient. Heck you could rotationally graze daisy and friends on a good chunk of your property just how it is now. Scale up rabbits for meat if you wished, get ducks or just grow more feed crops for the animals. Remember most big farms only cultivate about 1-2 acres for use the rest is grazing or wild land

[@littlehomesteadbigdreams]

Thank you!

[@awesomemom716]

I'm 72 yrs old and grew up on a 40 acre prune farm. With a big vegetable garden. Now I'm 72 and living in an apartment with a 4x12 patio. I love seeing your videos. They are entertaining and educational. And I see wide open spaces again! Keep up the good work. One thing I've learned is BE HAPPY WITH WHAT YOU HAVE AND MAKE THE BEST OF IT. Many people would love what you have.

[@margaretduran4415]

I’m here for all three. I’m in the 3rd or + stage of life. I started tiny in my parent’s back yard. I grew to several acres and went to 80 acres and several locations with 80-40+ acres each. I gardened, raised goats, chickens, cattle, livestock guardian and herding dogs. I also held a full time job. I moved from zone 9 to a city lot in a wintery location. I grew in a small greenhouse, planted 12 fruit trees, and had over 35 roses. I moved and going into my 3rd year here. Zone 7 or 8. Planted a small orchard, tried in ground vegetables with amended soil. Bombed out on vegetables. I’m in my first year with a greenhouse and beginning a raised container garden under shade cloth. The ground is too hot and hard clay and rocks. We’ll see how this year goes. I have about 1 acre. I think it is all relative. A homestead can be tiny or large. It’s up to the individual. A large acreage is hard to manage. A tiny balcony may be just right. Or one can fit a lot into an acre or less. Just depends.

[@SecrePeach]

Brian you’ve hit the nail on the head, the pandemic forced me into a life changing role. I’ve always dreamed of land and self sufficiency but timing, commitments and finances have never been right and becoming a full time, live in carer for my elderly parents seemed to be taking me further away from my goal (especially as my son was just finishing university) and he was looking at his future plans. So I took the time as a golden opportunity to learn to garden, I dug beds, bought a poly tunnel, watched hundreds of videos and did what Jess suggested, I surrendered to the constraints, started growing and used the time to learn all I could. Now, the garden is tiny but over the following couple of years I learned to grow upwards to maximise space and look at high yielding varieties. Each year I focused on different areas and now I have a tiny woodland garden under a tree, a medicinal flower garden in the front (to dry flowers and make salves, teas and syrups), a tiny patio surrounded by herbs and highly scented flowers, 4 small veggie raised beds, a small pumpkin/corn patch, strawberry patch, raspberry patch, plus 2 mini pumpkin/squash arches. Along the drive I have potatoes, a few mini fruit trees and elderflower bushes all in pots. I broke my ankle badly so I had to deal with my own mobility issues too. I am currently back in plaster (almost 3 months now)having had the ankle fused so again my journey has shifted again. My ability to leave the house is reducing as my parents health declines but I desperately need my own time, the garden is good but only in warm weather and I am aware when they are gone I will loose my home so Just before going in to plaster I sold my car and bought a van to convert myself into a camper and have been saving in earnest so that when the inevitable happens I will be free from the shackles of the government systems and hopefully take my time looking for my own piece of land to turn into my home. So, although I feel stuck in many ways I am learning, learning, learning all the time to ensure at my ripe ‘young’ 😊 age of 55 I don’t waste the time. I intend to hit the ground running and avoid the inevitable failures you learn at the beginning.

[@debbieromig8567]

I am trying to homestead on my suburban backyard in the desert. I have trouble keeping up with the land I have because I’m 65 and no one is going to help me unless I pay them. 1/4 of my yard is taken up by a swimming pool, but the rest is gardens and it’s keeping my food costs down. ( thinking I might need to start raising fish in the swimming pool if things really go bad.) Moving up will probably only be a dream for me, but I learn from you all the time and who knows what the future holds. Plan ahead and try to be ready for what you can is my goal. That you for all that you teach me!

[@debbieromig8567]

Thank you!

[@magsj2387]

4. Mainly love. The love that your beautiful family has. The love you have for your plants and the love you show your animals. There is SO MUCH negativity in the media on a daily basis that I NEED to seek positivity and your channel is one of the ones I watch. My family and I benefit and thank you so much for the content of your videos.❤🌱🏡🐮🐾

[@littlehomesteadbigdreams]

Thank you so much!

[@juneritchie2498]

Brian, Emily, Noah - your inspiration, candidness, vulnerability, humor, and "real-ness" is always welcomed in my place!

[@littlehomesteadbigdreams]

Thank you

[@melodytereski9821]

I'm 70 years old and have 4 acres. At my age I feel that is plenty. I'm here for entertainment, education and community. I totally appreciate both of your channels and will continue to watch what you are up to. I love what you have done! Thank you.

[@littlehomesteadbigdreams]

Thank you!

[@AnnieSATX]

I'm here to be refreshed with any gardening tips. I didn't know your back history, but I honestly feel anyone can "homestead" on whatever size land God has blessed them with. I'm so happy you hear that you will continue to "homestead" with what you have.

[@waxwing9052]

I came for the gardening advice and stayed for the entertainment and gardening advice

[@capeeddy]

I watch because I find it entertaining and inspiring to get a better education about gardening and homesteading from you. Thank you sir.

[@littlehomesteadbigdreams]

You’re welcome 😉

[@doug779]

I am an 83 year old person with a 90’ X 100’ lot in a suburban neighborhood with a 20’ X 20’ garden trying to grow as much as I can to feed my wife and myself (and family and friends) with fresh and and frozen and canned food. I am here to learn as much as I can to increase my harvest and to dream about what is possible, not necessarily for me but for others. I really enjoy your videos and your book. You have inspired me to not give up and keep on trying in spite of sometimes feeling too old. Keep doing what you have been doing and I will keep watching and wishing.

[@JS-jl1yj]

My biological father was a homesteader. He had a dairy cow, a team of work horses, a pig, rabbits, ducks and chicken and wine cellar. He also had an orchard and a vegetable garden. You remind me of him. I used to spend part of my summer break at my father's place as a little girl. I am now 71, living in a city, gardening in my backyard. I don't think that I will ever move from our semi-detached bungalow, we live 15 minutes from our two daughters. At our age, it is important to live close to a hospital. So, we will never become homesteaders. But I do enjoy watching you realizing your dream. I started following you on your Next Level Gardening when you made a video on how to grow tomatoes vertically. It's thanks to you that I can grow more vegetables in my small garden, because now I grow vertically English cucumbers, tomatoes, pole beans, sugar snap peas. You showed me how to grow hard neck garlic and I succeeded on my first try. I started saving seeds and this year, for the first time, I am growing onions from seed as well because you showed me how to do it. You showed me how to get sweet peppers germinated. And they are now growing. To me, every one of your videos is educational, entertaining and inspirational. I also enjoy reading comments of your viewers. Here, I feel like I am in good company, like I belong.

[@ClaireBaxter]

The answer from me is all three. 1. Entertainment because it's fun watching you and the growing cast of characters, whatever you are doing. 2. Inspiration because I will not be moving from this suburban block, but I can still do better with the space I have. 3. Education because I never want to stop learning better or just different ways to do things. I'm glad you've found your focus for the channel and have a plan. It sounds great!

[@barbandscottg]

We bought our house here in Charleston WV about 2 years ago. We're in our 50's and we bought a nice, old 3 bdrm place with a 50'x50' backyard. Half the yard is our garden with 30 tomato plants, 40 pepper plants 16 potato plants, bunch of onions, carrots, beans and herbs. It's perfect for the 2 of us and our dwarf bunny who is also named Bella. We are here because we are like minded freedom loving Americans like yourself and we want to support your channels. I tried the 2 cup method for the tomatoes and we have sprouts in only 5 days, awesome method that you had on the gardening channel. We don't usually buy any KZbinr's merchandise, but we HAD to get the "Garden Defiantly" shirts you made because it was such a perfect slogan and fits the time we are living in perfectly. Thank you for your channels!

[@nanhale6884]

Hi Brian, i couldn't have been the only one that quickly choked up the moment you spoke of what Daryl asked you. The moment you felt like a fraud to realizing you're definitely not!! At 78, I continue learning from you while still dreaming of future possibilities. Thank you for being you, Brian!! 💕

[@lauriesylvia985]

I am in a similar predicament. I moved out of New York in 2020. At that time it was because of taxes, and snow…abundant snow. However, I didn’t think about HOA’s and restrictions. Now, I am doing what I can with what I have, and learning as much as I can. Yes, I also enjoy the inspiration that your channel brings, but as I go into year 3 of my gardening experience, I thank you for all the things that you bring!

[@littlehomesteadbigdreams]

Thank you!

[@alysonbaker939]

I don’t know how you do it, but every time I watch your shows, I leave feeling positive and ready to conquer the world. I check all three boxes. You are my mental balm. Keep the vids coming!!

[@littlehomesteadbigdreams]

Thank you so much 😊

[@stephanieh8984]

Hi Brian, your message hit such an emotional cord for me. You hit ‘all the things’. I started trying to garden in 2021 bc food insecurity brought on by the pandemic. I was a total black thumb and it took me 3 years of killing every plant I touched before things started to click. I found your channel on my 3rd year when my mom dropped off 60 plants at my house and I didn’t want to just watch them all die over the next few months. Not only has your YT channel helped me to become an actual gardener (rather than a serial plant killer), but it has been a place of peace and calm amidst the storms of life that have hit over the last several years. I have 3 very challenging (special needs) children and life is often chaotic and stressful. When I sit down to watch your videos I am inspired to try again, to enjoy my garden, and to breathe. My husband and I just moved this past summer and we have a smaller yard now, but I am determined to turn it into my own “secret garden” with flowers and edibles everywhere. Gardening has been one of the few places that I allow myself to “fail miserably” at without self-judgement….and you have turned my failures into joyful successes! Thank you for all your help, both in the garden and in bringing peace into my chaotic world. ❤

[@trudybuchanan6490]

I started watching you before you stayed this channel. I've always been intrigued by homesteading so it was only natural for me to watch these videos too. I love the message you shared, Brian! I'm so glad you have found peace with the name of your channel. You are not a fraud! I have learned so much from you and my garden improves every year due to your advice. I know these videos take a lot more work than what we think so I just want to say THANK YOU! ❤

[@dianejuranko1050]

Brian, like so many others have said, I came here for education in the beginning. While on this journey with you, I’ve been inspired and sometimes entertained by your humor and wonderful quirky personality. This year I’m attempting to up the game in gardening. You’ve given me the inspiration (and education) to do that. Can I just say, the tomato video! I’ve watched that video multiple times. This year I watched it again and paused and made notes, paused again and made more notes. I even ordered your “tomato hangers” for this years bounty. And your book! I must look at that on average of 4-5 times a week right now. We made the decision to do raised beds only due to the heavy clay soil here. I carry that book to the greenhouse and to the raised beds as I’m beginning to plant. I tell you all this to let you know, we’re listening. You ARE inspiring and educating us. Keep moving forward with what you do best, gardening.

[@littlehomesteadbigdreams]

Thank you 😊

[@susanh2610]

I’m here at your channel for the education. I’m 70 years old and have been gardening all my life. There are a lot of people on KZbin who don’t know what they’re talking about. I return to your channel because there is always something I can learn from you. I’ve been battling cancer for 8 years and have severe arthritis, so I know at my age, I will never have a homestead. That’s OK. I can still have a really nice garden. I can watch you, a person who has overcome serious health challenges, and a person who is very knowledgeable about gardening among other things, and I can learn new things. You are never too old to learn something new. I’m thankful there are people like you to learn from.

[@barbarabishop545]

I love your videos. ALL of them. It’s your personality, your honesty about your feelings, your HARD work and everything you have accomplished in the past couple of years. Most of all you give great advice because your experiences have been trial and error. My whole gardening experience last year was because I followed your teaching through your videos and your book. It was the best garden we’ve ever had in 57 years of marriage. Brian, it’s truly amazing what you’ve accomplished and how hard you work to make your dreams come to fruition. I’m anxiously awaiting many more videos. My best wishes for whatever you endeavor. ❤

[@littlehomesteadbigdreams]

Thank you!

[@carengoodrich]

I’ve been watching you for several years, you really helped me with seed starting after not having gardened in awhile. You are in exactly the right spot for what people are seeking. I think an acre and a half is going to be a great, positive challenge for you. You have to keep it tight but the more acreage you have, the more things spread out and can get out of control. Keep being you and don’t worry about not having more land.

[@lorellesams6283]

I'm in an apartment and have part of my daughter's yard for a small veggie garden. You were my inspiration for gardening at her house. Now she wants to do a larger one for us both & her family. I came to this channel for all 3 reasons, after following your other channel. Don't feel bad about lack of land, it's definitely what you do with what you have. It's a process and gradually growing. You and all of us are learning along with the process. Keep up what you're doing. Love you guys❤

[@lisamcloughlin5549]

I have a 1/4 of an acre and do what I can to homestead, I garden, can, and dehydrate. My neighbor has chickens. I have learned so much from watching you, not all of us have extensive land, and we utilize what we have and you have shown inventive ways to do so. Keep doing what you are doing, you are in the right niche!! Thank you Brian for all that you do. ❤ I subscribe to both of your channels and love watching your videos.

[@littlehomesteadbigdreams]

Thank you

[@FloridaGirl-]

Get some chicken manure from that neighbor and compost it! Make some manure tea with it too. You won’t believe the BOOST it will give your garden!

[@cjminor6429]

Firstly, I would like to say that I’m here for all 3 reasons. And because I had a brain aneurysm as well, with a whole host of subsequent issues, I decided that it was time to live my dreams- I sold my beautiful city home, moved across country, bought a historical Victorian house that has been essentially ignored for the last 40-50 years or so (and needs EVERYTHING), and I purchased 42 acres of land a few miles away to eventually start my OWN nursery and garden center!! I have some wonderful and fantastic ideas for that property- a deep seasonal creek on the property will become “Koi Creek”- with graceful bridges. There will be a gravity fed watering train, a petting zoo, a children’s playground, wedding gardens, a tea garden, landscapes that represent many of the local land challenges; shade gardens (wet and dry), full sun (wet and dry), the local Master Gardner chapter will be welcomed to teach public classes here, perhaps even some paint and sip classes…. the possibilities are endless! I particularly like the idea of the summer months Food Truck Fridays suggestion of a friend! From you and others I am learning how to be a effective KZbin influencer, and, perhaps more importantly, not to hide my disabilities. They’ll like me or not, but those who stay may learn something of value through my journey! Yes, there will be some less that constructive criticism I’m sure- but I see how well you have handled it, and it makes me think that maybe I could do it, and hopefully with as much grace! These are lofty goals and plans, I know, but I’ve started in the correct direction, and even small steps forward are better than the spinning of my wheels I’ve been doing for years when I was stuck somewhere it was impossible to even consider such things! Keep it up Brian! You’re doing an awesome job!

[@littlehomesteadbigdreams]

Thank you

[@nanarose3496]

Well, you made me cry again, Brian…happy tears. I’m here for everything you mentioned, but especially YOU and your family. You teach this 75 year old with every video. I too have become a bit fearful of what government and corporations are doing that impact our lives. I worry about food costs skyrocketing when on a fixed income. I worry about my ability to contribute to a healthy lifestyle with my tiny balcony in a homeowners association. You give me hope and I’m excited to go forward on this journey with you. I predict your channel is going to EXPLODE with new subs and the “oldies” like those of us who have been with you since the beginning will still be here. Sending as always love and hugs to you, Emilie, Noah and the fur babies. ❤️🤗🌹

[@Mary0005able]

I am 73 years old and have an acre and a half with a few blueberry bushes and an apple tree that needs care, lol. My husband and I have been getting back into gardening after years of neglect. like you, we are changing our diets and I mill my own wheat to make all our baked good needs. What a difference. I come here for inspiration and education and love learning from you. I hope you and Emily embark on your canning journey since you can preserve so much of your garden produce. I have been inspired to start my own seeds again since the plants are so expensive. My flowers should be plentiful and beautiful this year if the weather co operates here in MA! The world today is getting scarier by the day but, with God's grace, we will be able to survive and provide for ourselves and our family!!!

[@erbie-wan521]

One of my favorite KZbinrs got her start on “acre Homestead” she’s grown wildly and has sized up. I first found you because I was looking for space saving ideas for my garden and yours were terrific. I’m excited to follow on the educational journey with you because are well spoken and that is helpful when teaching. Hope this blows up for you and you are able to size up even sooner than expected:

[@susanhunt2739]

I am 70 years old. I have had the homested,the small garden. I have now the small raised beds and grow pots. I watch for all three reasons. I look forward each week to grow myself, to look forward to what still can be. Thanks, Brian, and God bless

[@littlehomesteadbigdreams]

Thank you

[@fritter51]

We live on just under an acre of land. Mostly house & polebarns. We raise 5 chickens for eggs, and I have a small garden. We are in our 60s & 70s. I've had a garden for years. It's always a work in progress. I've canned for years, including pressure canning meat. I watch for education but love the entertainment. Watching you with the animals gives me peace and lowers my blood pressure. Thank you for your videos.

[@lgrillo]

I have no desire to homestead, but I love gardening and enjoy seeing all your projects and your creativity. I adore my suburban home and growing my own veggies and flowers, but I also like take-out and grocery delivery. I’m never going to own chickens/cows/sheep, so for me, your channel is primarily entertainment. I have been watching for so long now that I feel a bit invested in your success.

[@littlehomesteadbigdreams]

Thank you

[@lindseykipp9175]

🎉😁🌞 well said! I enjoy your content! Entertainment and information and definitely inspiration. Keep it up!

[@joelmerrill]

I see you have almost 2000 comments so I don't know if you will see this. But having a lot of comments is good! I'll be 70 in a few weeks. I live in a ordinary city lot. Since my kids grew up and left home, I have downsized may garden twice. I just don't need that much. I specialize in tomatoes. I initially started watching for education several years ago. I have your book. But I've watched you enough that I consider you a friend even though you don't know me. I suffered with severe depression for over 20 years. My faith in God is the only reason I'm still here. Now as I watch you improve your property and your hard work, I watch you as a continued story or an adventure.

[@jillbarger2593]

Like several others who commented, I'm in my 70's so increasing my foot print to include animals etc is not in the cards. Just being real. I am on a new property with new challenges for gardening so I feel like a newbie starting from scratch. I always look forward to your videos (never miss one) for inspiration, education & entertainment. You always brighten my day. I have to admit this video brough tears to my eyes. Thanks for your honesty and care.

[@crystals14acregarden61]

Wow. I didn't realize that you felt that way. I've been so proud of you, because you got to your next level by moving to a bigger place. And all the things you've done to this property. It's turning out so pretty, and you still grow vegetables with the pretty stuff. I have 1/4 acre. I'm 57. When I started my garden, I needed no help. Now I can do very little, before I have to sit down. But I'm not giving up, because of you, Jess, living traditions homestead...and several others. I keep finding ways to pack in more growing space

[@littlehomesteadbigdreams]

Thank you

[@karincooper7942]

I know I am late on the commenting but I just wanted to tell you that what you do on your property confirms that I can do good things on my property(1/3 acre). I will not have cows or sheep but I pick what I can do of the things you show us, and do them. All the while, enjoy watching you build yours. There will always be someone “bigger” than you and “smaller” than you. I have learned to be content with what I have and to do the most with what I have got. I think the line in the Sheryl Crow song goes like, “ It’s not having what you want, it is wanting what you got.” Be blessed on this journey!🙌💜

[@reneefreebury705]

My husband and I have lived / owned 20 acres. That’s when I first got into gardening. He was in retail management and got another store and moved… we ended up in Tennessee… we use to live in Mississippi… we now have 1.25 acres in a subdivision that every other house has chickens… which I also have. It doesn’t matter how much land you have ( unless you’re rich right now) to make what you want out of it!! Roots and refuge was the first homesteading KZbin channel I found and watched during covid. Then yours, Mi gardener, and Appalachias homestead!! Patera is my favorite!! Just follow your dreams and dream big!! Ps… I really enjoy your channels!! Both!!!

[@austintrees]

I'm here for education/inspiration.. I went from a apartment rental home with a small yard that I planned on doing container gardening only... To buying 1.44 acres with a lightly forested backyard and a big open front that I turned into a food forest and raised bed area... I wish I bought 20 acres in the middle of nowhere, but I'm here to learn things that are less common knowledge, get concise how to videos, and learn things that are going to make my job easier and more on autopilot. I know I am blessed to be able to be doing what I'm doing where I'm at, but maybe in 5 or 10 years I will find myself lucky enough to move from between 2 large towns into the country.

[@mburke3804]

Dear Brian, Thank you so much for this video. Your words brought tears to my eyes. I found your channels about eight month ago while searching companion planting, and since then, I watch your videos religiously! I’m here for all three reasons. I love the way you teach and your style of presentation. You are clear and concise, and you don’t waste my time. You are so humble and “real” - a genuinely good person. Three weeks ago, my husband and I left our families in Southern CA and moved to southern UT. Although I really wanted a small homesteading property (

[@littlehomesteadbigdreams]

Thank you

[@EllenMckean]

I’m here for all 3 reasons. I never been a gardener but when I lost my husband 6 months before Covid hit I decided to try and get into gardening. I’m someone who kills houseplants ha ha. My garden is concrete so I grow in pots and after watching you I’ve gotten better. I’m no expert but even my family are impressed. I’m still a novice but enjoy watching you. I’m in the UK so the weather here is very different but since I’m now retired I enjoy watching my food grow.

[@mariaharias807]

I have about 1/2 acre and watch your KZbin channel regularly. I watch to gain insight on planting my vegetable gardens to learn what to plant together or not. I have two pups, one is a rescue who loves her new life. So 1/2 acre is paradise to us. Thank you for continuing your shows.

[@jameslowery4550]

We inherited my wife’s 1-3/4 acre house and property. In a few containers and raised beds last year we raised a good amount of vegetables. If I utilize a full third of this property I can raise enough food to feed 4 households. I never buy firewood. I always keep my eyes out for free wood. Yes we heat mostly with wood. You are the reason I know I can provide all I need on this patch of ground that by the way is extremely steep. You started out as a gardening channel and that’s when I found you. You don’t need “experts or consultants “, to make a successful venture more so. If my 1-3/4 acres of land is a homestead to me, so be it. You just follow your heart and vision and you will be doing a great service for us followers. It’s really about succeeding on your patch of land and about providing for those whom you care about. Thanks for inspiring the little guys across KZbin. Keep being transparent and bringing us on your journey.

[@elaineaugustin9189]

We are seniors and we have 3.65 acres. Goats, garden, orchard and it is plenty. Would we love to be self sufficient? Yes. We do what we can the trust God for the rest. There are always projects and it keeps us busy in a good way. Thank-you for your honesty. I love to follow Roots and Refuge because Jess and Miah are always so encouraging! We can all encourage each other for that next level.

[@anetzband1383]

I'm 74, and you give me encouragement and spur me on. I have had a very hard year, spending months in a wheel chair, now back on my feet, and today I managed to get dirt into three planters and some plants in them. We were able to get TWO lettuce plants growing along with TWO spinach plants--just enough to give us some tasty leaves now and then. Gardening where we are is very hard, especially with the interference of the deer and the squirrels, but then I watch one of your videos and try again. Please keep making them.

[@carontheroad]

I had 30 acres, fenced off 1/4 an acre for garden and another 1/4 for orchard. Now, I have a tiny back yard and will be defiant in my front yard. I'm 73 now. It fits me. Your channel is my favorite for all those reasons.

[@littlehomesteadbigdreams]

Thank you

[@BrasileiraMia]

Going through tough times, especially with mental health challenges, can feel isolating, but discovering your Next Level Homesteading channel has been a game-changer for me. Your content transported me from dreaming on a balcony by the beach to actually embracing life in Hill Country, TX, with the space and nature to heal both physically and mentally. I can't overstate the impact your channel has had on my life; it was instrumental in inspiring significant changes that have led me to a healthier and happier place. Thank you for sharing your journey and wisdom. Your work truly makes a difference.

[@rebeccazody1278]

My constraint is my age- 71 slowed down, less energy, longer time to recover and recharge and more illness and longer time to heal from injuries. But I keep pushing. You are helping all of us do what we can.

[@theresaparodi6027]

Numbers 1 and 2 - I found both you and roots and refuge during COVID and still tune in to find enjoyment and inspiration and use it to the level of my abilities and needs. Jess is wise beyond her years -For such a young women, she’s unapologetic about her beliefs! Most of us have to grow old to find that level of confidence. Your family is small so I think the size of your property is enough, especially given the amount of time and energy that should be devoted to your family❤

[@littlehomesteadbigdreams]

Thank you

[@cjstenzel]

I'm here to learn, to be inspired, to be entertained, to share in your joy, failures, and successes. I'm here to get new ideas, to be motivated to apply myself more in my garden and point blank, I just really enjoy your videos. Thank you for being candid and transparent. Cheers.

[@grandmaofthree897]

All three! We live in South Dakota with a sizable farm/ranch. I am learning that I don’t use what I have available to me as much as your 1 1/2 acres! So you are an inspiration. This year I am not able to do as much in my garden because I am going to have a surgery to improve my hearing. But I plan on working in our yard as soon as I am cleared of restrictions. Thank you for your encouragement!

[@littlehomesteadbigdreams]

Thank you so much! Good luck with your surgery 🙂

[@juliaschreiber7819]

1. Education, 2. Inspiration, 3. Entertainment. I love Jess, and "Turn your waiting room into a classroom" is my favorite quote. I'm on 1/20th of an acre in a rental, battling cancer, and refusing to give up my dream of being a homesteader.

[@rsmith2812]

I think grow where you're planted comes to mind❤. .I want land and have a tiny bit...wish I had more...its not happening at the moment...but I'm growing where I've been planted so to speak. Growing more foods...in fabric bags if need be to get MORE edible green things and purple things and orange things

[@donnasanti8336]

I am 78 and watch you for all 3 reasons! I live in an apartment and growing herbs indoors and veggies in pots on my son’s balcony. You are so genuine and possess so much knowledge that I bypass most other gardening channel. Can’t lie-love seeing your animals! 😊

[@lisaferschweiler4474]

Hi Brian! I found your first channel in 2020, during my diagnosis of panic anxiety disorder,( as well as Jess’ channel). Gardening helps my anxiety/depression and just makes me feel better. Learning about tomatoes and pests was what brought me to your first channel back at your old place. I love how you teach and your grace towards others gives us confidence to garden. Gardening or sitting in it each day is part of my self care routine. I have learned so much from channel( and from your book), that now I’ve started quite a bit of seeds, grown many flowers, lettuces etc. This year I have peas, carrots, radishes and of course lots of tomatoes! I am excited to have second generation tomato seeds that I dried last year and sowed this year, and they’re sprouting up!🥹😭 I’ve learned so much from your channels! You are a blessing to me. Hugs

[@sandyhaworth4181]

All the above! I'm 64 years old and was raised on a dairy farm. Plus, we always had a huge garden. Even though I've been gardening all my life, I love your videos. I've learned a lot. And you CAN homestead on 1.5 acres! I live in the country. I only have 1 acre! I have a huge garden and I do a lot of canning. Do NOT let people bring you down!

[@gregj2647]

I’m here to learn. For 62 of my 66 years I lived in an urban area. 4 years ago after retiring we moved to the 10 acres we bought 15 years ago. While I have no plans to have chickens or livestock, I do have a very large vegetable garden. Last year I had so much fun planting and growing different vegetables and I’m hoping this year it’s even better. Keep up the great informational videos Brian

[@sandraoconnor5700]

Definitely all three❤❤❤Your channel is a precious rarity that I am addicted to!!!❤❤❤ Keep on booming where you are planted❤❤❤ Keep taking us with you to the next level - where ever that is for each of us❤❤❤I have seen you grow in courage and confidence in battling your anxiety and life, and am so very proud of the man you are now and will be at your next level❤❤❤and the next level❤❤❤and the next level❤❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@loriolsen5785]

We also bought a different home with land in 2021, with the goal of learning to garden. 2020 was a horrific year for us and we needed to get out of the city. Three years later, we are enjoying our ranch life. Yet, I am struggling with gardening. I've learned it is an art and a science! I watch gardening videos to learn how to do it. We must do all we can to be self-sufficient. Recent history has taught us that. Keep making your informative videos! We are on this journey with you!

[@pacema1]

I live in an HOA- run cluster home subdivision outside of Atlanta and watch you for my "what's next".

[@jeanninecollins1434]

My main reasons for watching your channel is 1) education and 2) inspiration. Love your videos.

[@AnneLewis-q5k]

You and your family are an inspiration to my husband and I. The fact that your piece of land is not ginormous actually makes it less intimidating and more approachable. And of course, you being so “enlightened” regarding the state of our world is so darn refreshing… Keep up the great work! You are a blessing to many. 👍🏼🙏

[@GreenfieldsHomeplace]

I absolutely love this video. Thank you. Everything you said about your journey to be more self-sufficient is exactly what my family experienced since 2020. Our entire mindset changed. This also came with big regrets and me wishing I had made different choices earlier in life BUT, we can’t go back and can only move forward. I would love ten acres but I have an acre. We planted fruit trees, made a raised bed garden, got chickens and rabbits. I waterbath and pressure can, dehydrate, freeze-dry and make tinctures, herbal remedies, my own ACV, Kombucha…etc. Prior to 2019, I didn’t do ANY of this. I love learning and growing…and I’m 54. I found your channel years ago when I was learning about growing tomatoes, and I’m here for this journey of the ‘Homestead mindset’. Both your channels are such a blessing to many of us. I look forward to these types of videos and continuing to learn with everyone here. 🌱🌼

[@anneramirez9577]

I don’t know why I started watching this channel, other than it grew out of watching your gardening channel. The gardening, I definitely began watching to learn how to garden in raised beds. And you’ve taught me so much! But this channel, I tune in because it is comforting. I love watching you with your animals. I love your pretty cottage garden. I enjoy listening to your ideas.

[@susanjohnson6517]

I watch for all 3 reasons, especially for inspiration and education having only recently discovering you have this channel in addition to the gardening one I have been watching. I appreciate that you are down to earth and share your struggles as well as successes. My husband and I are 62 and after living mostly in metropolitan areas and after decades of wishing to purchase about 10 acres in the country, we were presented with an opportunity 2 years ago to purchase a 22 acre farm on the edge of a small town a half hour from our suburban home just north of Indianapolis and decided to go for it despite being told by some that we were too old to do that. We had 3 parties including our daughter and son-in-law who were ready to purchase 1.5 acre parcels on east side of property and wanted to help with our garden and help us keep it a working farm rather than turning it into a hobby farm. We were disappointed to find that you can't just do whatever you want with your own property. The county was getting ready to start a drainage project and would not permit structures to be built on that acreage until they complete their project which was to be finished this spring but now they say the end of the year. We have a farmer renting 15 acres and alternating growing corn and beans In the mean time, the 140 year old house is too far gone to salvage. We began developing house plan with a builder but the interest rates increased to the point that it would now cost us $1000 per month more to build that house by the time we completed the plan. Therefore, we are feeling stuck at the moment as it is cheaper to keep our current house at lower interest rate and commute to the farm, though we still have our day jobs too. We cannot have animals with this scenerio and are working to remodel the out buildings and are expanding the quarter acre vegetable/flower garden while deciding if we want to scale it to sell product. Time will tell and all this said, we always look forward to going to work in the dirt and find it relaxing and a different kind of work that is satisfying and the food tastes so much better than store bought. We invite friends to come and pick what they want and hang out for cookouts and enjoy spectacular sunsets, etc. They love it so we still believe we are on the right track. Thanks for your transparency and I amazed at everything you are doing. We are blessed to be able to grow whatever we can, whether on our balcony or on more acreage. I think the key is to try to be content with whatever the scenerio and enjoy living in the moment!!

[@cjsands716]

I'm here to learn. You have taught me so much about gardening since I started watching you back in 2022. I was just a newb at growing anything and was trying my best to become more self sufficient...added back yard chickens and planted my little garden in spaces that it would fit throughout my front and back yard. It's been months though since I last saw one of your videos and this came up on my feed. I thought 'oh no! What has happened!' And hearing just the first few sentences I 100% understood what has happened while I have been away from your channel (not intentionally, just busy) Our eyes get opened at different times and at different paces. I think our entire country has been shaken awake theses past years. God bless you friend and keep your family and God in front of you. We really are in this together.

[@gardenfreshtotable]

I am 64 and have been watching you and converting my 1/4 acre yard into the best garden I can grow now that I am retired. My goal is to learn as much as possible from you, other local gardeners and by taking classes to become a Master Gardener so that I can teach children how they can do what you just described about using the land they have from a patio to a home with a yard or a farm to grow their own healthy food and all the enjoyment they can get from that. If I were 10 years younger I would be looking for a farm to homestead like you are doing with 1-2 acres. You should feel fortunate for all you have and all you do to help others and enjoy where you are in this adventure called Life.

[@jessicahunt3175]

Thank you so much for this. MOST people will never be able to have all the land in the country. I had a dream of moving in the country on many acres to homestead. It fell through and I was devastated. Now I’m trying my best to make the most of gardening in the city (raising chickens and quail as well). I need to count my blessings that I even have land to have a “large” garden on. We are all doing our best and that is what counts. 💗

[@christinem4655]

Wow! Look at all these wonderful comments. Brian and Emilie you have built an amazing community. You are definitely filling a need and are an inspiration. Thanks for taking us along on your journey.