Huge Tomato Time (DON'T GIVE UP!) | VLOG

[@carlyrobidoux6686]

My son was playing a game on my iPad and a notification popped up and he goes “Mommy the garden girl just posted a new vlog!” 😂

[@nevleo]

My husband and friends have dubbed Jess (and me, recently) "crazy tomato lady" 😄 I just love it!

[@joanies6778]

Precious! 😍 I hope he's excited about gardening, too.

[@shadow_vr549]

Mine did the same exact thing!

[@melissabutts6694]

This is great 👍🏻 lol

[@itsbreellis]

Thats adorable!

[@amywahl5644]

I have been watching Daniels videos and he is so inspirational to so many people , he sang songs and showed his garden, and I told him Thank you for this musical blessing , y'all a gift from our Heavenly Father

[@iartistdotme]

Thanks, Jess! I needed that. It's so bloody hot down here in central Florida. I can think of a hundred reasons not to keep walking the paths morning and night but once I'm out there, I get busy and forget about the A/C and YT. Then when I go inside, I realize I'm actually doing this - at 74!!!! Yes. I feel great about it and while I'm doing stuff I'm happy and totally not worrying about the news, the bills, the aches, the rest of the world. I'm thinking about the magic in my garden. It is palpable. It is refreshing. It is exhausting It is so self validating. It smells so good. It has the music of nature all around. It isn't just hot, humid Florida but a tiny piece of growing earth and it feeds my soul. My bed feels delicious when I finally sleep. Cool, clean, and rewarding. I thank God for my garden.and for your sharing videos!

[@justpatty7328]

Mary, your words are just as encouraging as Jess's. Thank you from one gardening soul to another.

[@iartistdotme]

@@justpatty7328 And I thank God for other gardening souls that reach out and keep me hanging on to the trellis to catch the sunshine. Thank you Patty for taking that time for this comment. Jess has formed a delightful community that I appreciate so much.

[@kele1264]

So very well said. Exactly how I feel. About my small garden, and about other things. It's life.

[@cathyscroggins1420]

Mary, please continue to get out there and garden and keep moving. My mom passed away recently at 78 and she sat all day and did nothing and couldn’t walk very far at all without being out of breath. No matter how much all of us encouraged her. You have to keep moving. Trust me❤️

[@iartistdotme]

@@cathyscroggins1420 Thank you for your message of care. I'm very sorry to hear about your Mom and her difficulties. I'm so grateful that I am healthy, and living happily with my daughter and her family. I get to take care of the kids which does keep me younger LOL and love that I feel needed. The garden is so peaceful with tons of life lessons. My 5 yo grandson keeps me company and it's fun to be with him while he tastes new things fresh from the soil. He even likes okra and we munch together as we walk. He's learned the names of all the veg and he says he likes everything but his favorite is the stevia. Jess and her family are precious friends even if they are virtual and now I'm glad to meet you.

[@crediblerebel8295]

Adam Savage says "Remember kids, the only difference between screwing around and science is writing it down!" I look forward to your scientific exploration.

[@sunsetsky594]

Jess: "I rubberneck on gardens", LOL. So awesome.

[@frasersgirl4383]

My husband always says when I trudge back in after 15 minutes in the heat.....”you showed up”. “That’s what counts.”

[@shpuply]

Sounds like a good man. He's so right! Good for you just showing up. That's what most people forget. :)

[@kele1264]

bless that man

[@RoseThistleArtworks]

What a sweetheart, both of you.

[@jenniferspeers2453]

Love that. Sounds like you nabbed a good one.

[@terrielvwl]

The heat of the summer can be so defeating. When you open the door at 6 am and the steam hits you in the face you just want to turn around go back in.

[@rosemcdonald5681]

My chickens got in my small garden and ate all my Swiss chard and all my carrots. So there ya go,now I know it’s not just me.

[@janessaw89]

Ok that dress is amazing on you!

[@shadowedmoonlight2184]

Yes where did you get that dress

[@Sdpvoe]

Awesome video. Thanks for the inspiration. Much appreciated.

[@seasideparrot]

This vlog made my heart so happy. I am about to hit the peak here with tomatoes just starting to blush. Giant cucumbers hiding under leaves. Squash leaves the size of elephant ear. Bush beans and burgundy beans finally producing. Corn is tasseling. It is a jungle, I love it, but now that I can no longer work from home and peek at it throughout the day, I am so homesick for it while I'm at work. Praying that it rains until I can get out there. It is thriving on its own AND we have cardinal babies!!! Always have 2 cardinals in our yard and love that our little ecosystem brings other life into this wonderful little space. Still binge watching roots and refuge farm before bed and while getting ready for work in the morning. 🥰🥰🥰

[@a.jacobs9503]

Oh jess, when I'm having a day where I'm down, there's something about you and your garden that just grounds me. I'm just so grateful for this channel, for this space you've created. God bless you 🌻🧡

[@angelalowe5987]

I am feeling the stress from my garden. I have lost a few tomato plants. However, I have a full kitchen table of potatoes, tomatoes, onions, and cucumbers. Thank you for the encouragement. ❤

[@PsychoPixie57]

"this is what the garden has garden did for me in her neglect..." This was so inspiring to me, for when I feel overwhelmed with my tiny garden.

[@SPshaun]

Thank you Jesse. I’ve developed an allergy to stinging wasps. I planted a full garden before being stung by a wasp while watering plants in the greenhouse. After the response to that, husband having to call emergency and doctors in the ER prescribing an epi pen, I’ve been heart broken and afraid to go weed and harvest. I live in an area like you, with a few neighbors in the Willamette Valley of Oregon. Wasps and yellow jackets are abundant here. I love gardening and taking care of my chickens and horses. I’ve been watching your videos for over a year now without subscribing because our climates are not even close to the same. But your spunk and devotion to who you are and your values are such an inspiration to me. Just thought I’d let you know that. I am subscribed now and look forward to your seeing what you and your family do.

[@petefellwock7778]

The last part of your video was OUTSTANDING! I needed that! My garden this year is not that bad since I'm using ground cover, but I have suffered through years where by this time the garden was nothing but 3' weeds. Truly an inspirational talk, yes yes yes were my answers. I've never had a Fall garden before. Never thought about it. With a little bit of care and concern, I'm going to have a Fall garden. Thank you!

[@ooohhitskaren63]

I am trying a fall garden for the first time this year.

[@lynnes6600]

Me, too!

[@seedaholicgardens9085]

MY name is on the board!MY name is on the board!😁😁Watching you harvesting always inspires me to keep striving be patient, my time of harvest, too shall come. I am growing German Pink which are also a Beesteak , So I hope the cousins of your stiped German's do half so well as yours did! looks like tomato sandwiches for breakfast to me!YUM!Coffee and Jess harvesting and dropping wisdom.was My breakfast. What a lovely start to mt day ans I thank you for it!"Blessings of Bounty and May Your Gardens and your Life always Bring You Joy,Inspiration and Abundance!" - Hope & Mark!

[@rogerbonilla1951]

I Love you, and I love your good Southern heart, you make the south shine with your inward beauty towards your passion for gardening and your love for your husband and children. ALL MY LOVE.................. CONTINUALLY 💙💜❤️

[@gabriellebooth7530]

I just wanted to say thank you! Myself and my family have so enjoyed watching your videos and learning SO much. You’re authentic, inspirational and motivating. I have a 7 year old and twin 4 year olds who are really getting into their veggie gardens which has been a total joy to see. Today they enjoyed their first yellow bush beans and summer squash. So fun to see kids get excited over homegrown veggies! Again, thank you!

[@allisoncowart2768]

Oh Jess!!! 😭 I needed to hear your message about not abandoning your garden! I am in SE Louisiana and it seemed to me that the garden was just “done” this year. But you reminded me to move on and look forward to the fall garden. Thank you!!

[@yeevita]

My tomatoes usually do better in the fall than in summer. Summer is much too hot and this year spring was more like winter/summer.

[@kiprussell6102]

Thanks Jess the pep talk can be about life in general and not just the garden. After all God started his conversation with us in the garden. I have been struggling lately with my health and the health of my wife who has dementia and I care for her so thanks for your advice. Keep up the good work my wife loves watching you

[@iartistdotme]

I love the thought about God starting his conversation with us in the garden. One of my favorite old songs was about walking in the garden with Jesus while the due is still on the roses. It truly is a place to be closer to Him. I said a little prayer for you and your wife just now - He was listening.

[@kiprussell6102]

@@iartistdotme thank you so much I firmly believe in prayer

[@TealStoneHomestead]

I know this is really sappy, but you made me cry when you started talking about not giving up. This year was the year where I wanted success in my garden, and I have been working so hard. Despite my efforts, I keep getting blossom end rot in my zucchinis, and my bell peppers and green beans won't produce despite having pretty good sized plants. Part of me thinks I'm just impatient because I'm in Indiana, and our harvest doesn't happen as soon as a lot of people in the south. But when I posted about this on IG I was surrounded by so much love and encouragement. And now I even get it from you 😭 Anyway... thank you so much ❤️

[@creativedaisycrafts5318]

Your daily insight and the lovely person you are is the reason we are encouraged to do the best we can and continue on life’s journey in the garden and home. Thank you to both you and Miah for the inspiration. 💕😍

[@dorisartman]

Thank you so much for all your encouragement, Jess!💜💕 It helps a lot!🙏

[@heartsfiregarden6352]

YEEESSSSSS!!! Thank you for that last tidbit of support and encouragement! That was me last year with my first garden. I just got to the point where I couldn’t go out anymore. It was SO much! This year I’m ready!! I’ve got my canning supplies to get started! And that excites me into going out everyday! I just need to keep showing up for her!! 💜

[@annewest3819]

Garden turned jungle - that was me until I met you. Yesterday my neighbor complimented me on the beauty of my backyard garden. Thank you for all your guidance & encouragement. You have truly blessed me.

[@cathyherring6424]

Thanks Jess.... the words of encouragement mean so much❤️❤️💕❤️❤️love your BIG tomatoes. Ummmmmm

[@susan-almosta_farm8823]

You do it every time!!! YOU say the perfect words at the perfect time! I love how the Holy Spirit speaks to us through you. That's what I see. That's what I hear. God Bless!!!

[@RootsandRefugeFarm]

He is so faithful!!!!

[@vmorganbogart]

Jess, I remember when little Ben said, It’s hard. You told him, You can do hard things. We all have to remind ourselves of that sometimes. It will be interesting to see how your experiment in the high tunnel turns out. Blessings, Love & Hugs from Vicki in Ft. Worth, Texas 🇨🇱🇺🇸👍❤️🍅🥰🙏🙏🙏

[@naomitate5489]

I have to admit.... I was about to pull my tomato plants up.... all my tomatoes are tiny.... I know I need deeper soil.... but I go out to the garden everyday, with my fresh brewed cup of coffee and I sit.... the garden shows you what it needs.... mine is small enough too.... lol.... I learn so much everyday.... Jess is the most encouraging person I have ever seen, I wish I could be that encouraging.... I wait for every, "I bless you, " on every video because I truly feel like she is blessing me....

[@ericawaymaster2919]

Thank you for the pep talk! It is the exhausting time of the garden but it really is so worth it! I harvested a hod basket full of sunshine kissed tomatoes and it brought me so much joy!

[@annettedigiamberardino4502]

Aww... thanks... this was perfect timing for a pep talk. A broken wrist, storm damage, super outnumbered by the bugs... It was starting to get to me! I love your mantra: " keep showing up"😍 thanks for your videos and your sweet soul of inspiration... I bless you right back!❤

[@hlesterly9293]

Great pep talk! I've been struggling with my first poor garden experience, feeling very discouraged as the plants never sprouted and wondering where I went wrong. I was able to show my mom the garden for the first time yesterday and I mentioned that none of my tomatoes sprouted and I should give up watering something that never sprouted. My mom looked down and said "oh my goodness there's a baby tomato plant right there! Never give up when you're feeling discouraged!" Such an amazing lesson to learn that hope is always better than despair. But also, just because you can't see the fruits of your labor, it doesn't mean they aren't there! Thank you, your videos truly are a gift!

[@elyserhyne243]

I just want to thank you for posting both the good and bad times. Some times my garden feels behind and you post a video about tomatoes being behind and I'm like "if she's optimistic and having issues, I can be optimistic!" Its so hard feeling like you can't compare to others but you show that working through it gives great rewards!

[@seedaholicgardens9085]

Dunny you shouls mention fall, bought 20 bags os soil -doing a full dozen soil bags for food production during winter. an i need to Milk Juf Sow right now to get cabbages and other brassicas in place for fall production!I love the lean and the season s where the garden is a beast as well!💜

[@gayeknight]

Thank you for the pep talk. I am a 5th grade teacher gearing up for my 30th year in the classroom (hopefully in the classroom), and I am so excited to plan my ”garden” for next years munchkins. I am always so excited to begin planning, getting the names of my next group of babies, setting up my classroom, and putting in the work for a great start. I will remember this ”little talkin’ to” when it gets tough. When it is easy to give up because you aren’t getting the fruit you planned to plant. Maybe, some years you mixed up your seed and munchkins aren’t showing as much progress in reading as you had hoped. Some years you see your babies learning to be kind and supportive of their classmates. Some years you see tech skills growing faster than math skills. It is great to remember that a harvest is worth celebration. Maybe what you tried to plant and cultivate is hibernating within the soil for another season. Thank you for all that you do. You are in my prayers.

[@farmyourbackyard2023]

I don’t garden for it to be stressful. Best quote of the day. Thank you for sharing the right mindset, especially for those who are new to gardening. It should bring joy in every moment.

[@nevleo]

I just found my first pea-sized tomato yesterday and all my plants have a lot of blossoms on them. I get so excited when I see your harvests😍

[@ooohhitskaren63]

Shake your tomato plants!!! It's helping mine pollinate better

[@marshagibson5899]

I get jealous lol. My garden had to be planted late and I've only got a few tiny little tomato balls and harvested only one zuchinni. So impatient!

[@cascadiagrove6367]

Yaay! Sittin stump pep talk 💚💚💚 Hope that tomato sandwich tastes like sunshine ☀️

[@alexachen996]

Well It definitely won’t taste like disappointment. 😉😂

[@driskell938]

The wisdom that you shared at the was so appreciated. The hubby, who is not a gardener, even spoke up when you pointed out the importance of asking yourself questions about what you what out of your garden once it is in full production. Lovely and beneficial information. Thank you.

[@kosmosjk]

Hi Jess, what a fantastic harvest of tomatoes. The pep talk was actually well timed. Although I am still at the beginning of the gardening season here (North West England) we have had rain rain rain for weeks, the peas have flopped away from their supports, the ground is a mud bath and the weeds - well, lets just not go there! Thanks for sharing another inspirational vlog :-)

[@unconventionalMi]

Thank you Both Jess and Julia - while Jess’ advise was just in time for me too, your comment Julia was hit the nail on the head. I’m in the English North-West too and it’s my first year of owning a tiny garden. I put so much effort and love into every plant and was starting to lose hope that anything would ever produce edible fruit. It’s comforting to know others are in the same boat and haven’t given up!

[@Hannah_jp_93]

Another person from North West England here! I’m just waiting, waiting, waiting for something to grow 😂

[@lydialee468]

So true！I was so eager when the seeds germinated, but these hot days just makes me think 🤣I don’t wanna go outside. Thanks Jess for the pep talk!

[@weirdheathersgarden]

I’m in Yorkshire, so not sure if it’s classed s North West or North East. Either way, that rain is getting a bit old now. My tomatoes and chillis need some sun!!!

[@ooohhitskaren63]

Go out after 4 pm. That's what I do when it's that got out. I am still building raised beds. So I build after 4pm. I may get 4 hours in. It's better than nothing. I had to water today...cucumbers and rhubarb were screaming for water. Checked the neighbors garden and he was finally home from his trip.

[@Just-Nikki]

I’m gonna be a mom for a minute and remind everyone to apply sunscreen and reapply often. Don’t forget your eyebrows, hairline, ears and neck. There are inexpensive mineral options for your face like Australian gold and I believe Cerave is mineral as well. Thanks for coming to my Ted talk...those maters are lookin extra sexy Miss Jess!

[@debrabray8855]

Oh Jess.... Thank you so much for the pep talk at the end! I was just teetering on the edge of throwing in the towel this morning, here in South Texas, even as I was researching pest control and fertilizer. But you are right...there is still harvest in there! BTW, you are going to have SO many sweet potatoes!! Enjoy your tomato sandwich with those gorgeous tomatoes 😋

[@itsbreellis]

Every year can bring different challenges but the harvest makes all that go away, even if it wasn't the harvest you expected! Way to not give up!

[@deewinston5651]

Jess, thank you! I needed this pep talk. It’s 96 right now outside. I’ve been really trying and overall my small little garden has done really well. I think rats have been getting some of my tomatoes. Putting out traps, but being in Houston, I usually call it quits by August. Never had a fall garden but this year I’m going to try. I feel God uses you to encourage people to not give up, or beat themselves up, but to keep trying, to do your best. Blessings to you my sweet gardening friend.❤️🦋

[@kittyflint5049]

I really needed to hear this today because I was getting so discouraged and your words nearly moved me to tears. Thank you jess❤ I'll keep showing up

[@sarahm5324]

Me too! I had a rough night in the garden and I felt less inspired and motivated than ever. I am happy to hear thats normal and I should just keep showing up!!

[@themidsummermuse]

That last message! Just a little bit of care and concern. By the way, a momma turtle laid her eggs in my garden. I got to watch it. Just added an extra bit of blessing from God to my life.

[@roughcollies]

Not just the garden but life. Words I very much needed to hear.

[@stacyannwalker8637]

Omg I really feel like you were taking to me cause last Saturday when I saw my kitchen garden completely covered in weeds I wanted to just call it a day. And honestly I wanted to cry and I can remember telling my husband that I feel like giving up. But what gave me a bit of motivation that day was my 11 years old son helping me to pull out some of those weeds. Even though we didn't finish the job completely but it's looking a bit better now and we are planning to build two new raise beds cause I have some scotch bonnet peppers and bells to transplant really soon. Thanks for always motivating us

[@jacquelinesmit876]

so lovely to see that you treat those tomatoes like they were your babies xxx

[@jackieskitchen2020]

My biggest tip from you has been to work in the garden early morning or in the evening. I'd say that is why my gardens have got away from me in the past. Too hot out to go work. This alone has helped me sooooooooo much! Thank you for inspiring me to keep trying!! ;)

[@debbiejackson7846]

The thing I look forward to the most every year is the first tomato Salad, which I was able to make tonight!!Diced fresh tomatoes, Chopped fresh Garic, Chopped fresh Basil, Drizzle of olive oil, Salt and pepper, Crusty Italian bread for dipping. Mix it all up and refrigerate for at least half an hour. It is so so sooo good!! The bread in the juice is the best. 🍅 🧄 🌿

[@nhlibra]

You sound like you were talking about my Dad's garden. When we were kids, we HAD to work in that garden every day. Two rows every morning had to be weeded before we jumped on our bikes to go play with the neighbors or swim at the pool. At the narrower end, the rows were 125 ft long, the wider part where he planted all the vine plants was about 10 ft more. We also had to pick and help can and freeze. He would always say...If you kids want to eat this winter, you have to help in the garden. When we grew up and moved out, the garden got easily out of hand, especially in that portion of July. Whenever I had time (as a young mother), I would go up there and pull pig weeds, as long as they weren't too close to plants and would ruin their root systems. For years I begged my Dad to downsize. He was the same way...very excited about getting the spring planting going and he LOVED watching things grow. He passed at age 83 and had just as big of a garden as ever before. And he harvested quite a bit out of it despite the takeover of weeds mid season. After he passed, I learned about straw bale gardening. This was what my Dad needed towards the end of his life...learning to grow in compact space and good yield from better management.

[@Side-Quest-Workshop]

You know it’s about to get real when the kitchen scale gets tossed into the hob

[@melissabutts6694]

💯💯💯🙌🏻🙌🏻🙌🏻🙌🏻

[@PicklesFiona]

I call her the tomato lady!

[@anniecochrane3359]

Thank you Jess for that sooo timely 'dont give up' pep talk. It works for me here too in the southern hemisphere where the weeds slow but still grow. As I get older (70s) it becomes more difficult to keep on top of everything, and yet I have more time to be in my beloved garden.

[@jenniferbaptista1426]

The points you make about showing up even though it's hot and buggy are so true. This is my 1st year with a big garden. I may have even planted way more than I'll need but I do feel fantastic that I was able to do this. Watching the earth produce reminds us that there is a creator who gave us the seed and the dirt and everything we need to make this happen.

[@diamondslashranch]

It’s very easy to be excited about the planning and planting. It takes hard work to keep your garden in shape and producing.

[@claireisacamel]

Make yourself a big glass of basil lemonade and set yourself a 30 minute timer! Harvest produce, tie up plants, and give it all a good once over then go put your feet up and enjoy your lemonade!

[@emmaschauer5409]

Watching this in February while sowing my seeds, dreaming of what's to come. I needed some lovely color. Thanks! ❤️🍅❤️

[@sydneykasmar]

Thanks for the encouragement. This can happen in so many areas of life and to follow through with whatever care we can provide is beneficial. I think of you, your family, the garden, the animals and then a kitchen reno. You not only talk a good talk Jess - you walk it. ❤❤❤

[@takishasallbeautyzone]

Girl, you were just preaching to ME! I was getting so frustrated. It's my first time growing in this zone (8a). And my cucumbers just started getting so bitter they're inendible, the zucchini have stuff growing on them that I've never seen in other places that I've gardened, these tomato hornworms are the bane of my existence, and you're right...no matter how many green bean plants I grow it never seems to be enough. I LITERALLY just ran back in the house from spraying neem oil, only for it to start raining and washing it away😭😭😭. So I REALLY needed to hear that pep talk. I'm gonna go take a shower, have a cup of tea and try again this evening. Thanks Jess💚.

[@RoseThistleArtworks]

An old timer out here in rural Colorado told me when I was new out here to plant dill around the tomatoes because the horn worms love dill more, but don't damage the dill. That worked here. Maybe I can pass it on and it will help you, too?

[@iartistdotme]

You will think I'm insane but this is a true story. Fifty years ago I began gardening and raising animals without even visiting a farm before. I wanted it so badly. The first year the tomato horn worms were so horrible and overnight seemed to grow and were destroying all 100 tomato plants. I read Organic Gardening magazine faithfully for years before I even had 10 acres and it just happened that the main story that month was about a tobacco farmer. He said he was loosing ground until he tried a new method of ending the tobacco worms eating his harvest. He collected a hand full of them, blended them with water in an old blender then sprayed the solution all over his tobacco plants and no more worms So, since I knew nothing about farming at all, I decided to do the same. I grabbed a hand full of the green monsters and using a rock in a bucket of water (didn't have a blender) I mushed them up then walked the tomato plant rows and doused the leaves between two sponges. The worms were everywhere and I had no realistic hopes of anything but decided to give it the best I could. The next morning I went out and could not find a single tomato worm - none dead, just gone. I guess they smelled their dead relatives and left. All I know is it worked and from that year on I canned enough tomatoes to keep us in sauce for an entire year. Don't give up. That lesson taught me to keep going and count the losses as inexpensive schooling cheaper than college. No lost plant is a loss - just a lesson to be learned to make you wiser. Keep dreaming cause dreams do come true.

[@DebbieBlanke]

I commented earlier before reaching your closing. You made me cry remembering the year I said NEVER NEVER NEVER EVER AGAIN!! NEVER!!! I had worked so hard, but work-work took over my schedule, and then deer tore down my fencing destroying nearly everything. I was left with ONE magnificent Dr. Wyche, and one zebra stripe (which wasn't very good) and beds of blight and ugly plants. The peppers dried on the vine, I didn't even want to look at them or bother cleaning up before winter, couldn't stand looking at it. I was sure I had a black thumb, couldn't overcome the AR heat humidity and bugs. But boy oh boy, I'm so glad God gave me the season of rest to regroup, re-dream, rebuild. And today I love my garden. Planted very late this year, my harvest is still a ways off but really REALLY appreciate your forewarning of the hard parts coming. You're a beautiful soul.

[@danaqueen139]

Heck yes Jess!! “Just keep showing up” is my mantra! You can’t fail at making progress if you do a little everyday! 💚

[@whisperjoy1128]

I'm missing this kind of weather and the heavy gardening season today. It's raining and just 45 degrees in Ohio today. Watching this bit of summer while waiting until next weekend to plant all my tomatoes! 🍅 🥒 🍆 🌻

[@denisepinkston7160]

My son just used the weed eater on my garden. We had a fantastic garden at our previous home. This is our second year in this one. It's hard starting over and my husband has no time to really help much. He was our gardener. Now he's renovating our house. We bought his grandparents' 1960s home and it had to have a lot of work. But we got 8 acres and a pond. I am learning so much from you. I am watching your old videos and all the new ones. Thank you for sharing.

[@stephaniecampbell3015]

It definitely helped show us the tomato size when you put them next to your face. Whoa! Love the 🍅 experiment. ❤️ the Pep talk!

[@pk_paleo_girl4391]

I always feel grounded while watching your video's. Thank you for the words of encouragement!! I have been gardening for almost 10 years and your right about the garden getting away from you. With 2 kids and a full time job the garden ends up taking a back seat and its always around harvest time. Today after work I headed to the garden and pulled my onions, prepared the bed for more Bush beans and harvested my other green bean plants. Dinner was late tonight but I feel better knowing I accomplished something today in the garden that has needed to be done for quite awhile. Thank you again.

[@andyosborn7103]

Jess, you should also make a tick mark on each side of the hybrid/heirloom tomato journal for each fruit, so you can get a count of each. You can get an average fruit size for each then, which would be interesting.

[@katielane4431]

Jess I find you very inspirational. I am an amputee at 61 and you have encouraged me to get back into gardening. Your tomatoes are truely amazing and as we are I. Winter just now I can’t wait to put in some tomatoes. I have just harvested sone radishes and pickled so excited. I garden in raised bed that make it easier for me. Thank you for all that you do and share with us. Please keep keep safe thank you and God Bless Katie 🇦🇺

[@kathyroberts5870]

My little space is only 9 1/2 X 9 1/2. It is overcrowded,i grow to help my elderly. I was out there everyday so I slacked off not wanting to be disgusted over and over ,I did everything I knew to do .I delivered my first small mess of beans to an elderly couple, My tomatoes are small ,snails ate my cucumbers Replanted twice ,couldn't find the seeds I wanted,I was about to give up. My husband reminded me that I had another week to go before tomatoes were even 60 days ( Planted May 13th ). It's the first place to go in the morning and the last place to go in the evening.My garden is my peace and quiet and a reminder God still Blesses . Bless you for the encouragement to keep on keeping on.

[@EMSpdx]

1) In Portland OR, looking at the all the flowers on the tomato plants and wishing....2) And we needed to hear this sermon today!

[@ssg8051]

Hi, Jess. Your closing comments remind me of a reply my goddaughter made to her mom when she turned six years old. When asked how she felt about turning six, she said "I wish I'd enjoyed being five more." Life Rule of Thumb: Appreciate where you are at in any season...and the regrets will be fewer. Cheers to all, Ardith

[@ToyHuntress]

THANK YOU for that pep talk!! I am the gardener that every years it gets away from me and weeds are waist high! I’m not quite to the give up stage yet, but I’m saving this video and remembering your words for when I’m feeling overwhelmed! I am so glad my friend suggested I watch your videos! I’m loving them!!

[@jodymcdonough4392]

So wonderful how your smile seems to be a regular feature on my cute little face. Your momma must be proud of you.

[@cherylanderson3340]

Such good advice. Sometimes we need to remind ourselves that the only way we truly fail at things is by not really trying to do our best, & by just giving up. Like you said - Just keep showing up.

[@scothancock2586]

“I stopped watching…”. Thank you. I have done this throughout my life. People in our society had “stopped watching.” My advise to all, embrace every moment. If you don’t like something,change it. Big hugs.

[@kathyearhart]

You are right! In the winter I long to walk in the garden and among my flowers. Some days I waste that preciousness in the summer. I need to not take it for granted, as winter is coming...

[@pjf883]

Exactly,Its very easy to start out strong and garden gets so full.Then your wow its forest ! IM 62 and gardened many years,and it happens every year.But your are so right just push through the forest and you do reep what you sow.❤ You garden very much like I do.It has been sanity in my life. To many peps stress and it's not suppose to be ...I always tell everyone starting,try one way if it dont work try another. Gardening helps you grow patience. 🧡 🍅🥒🌶🌽🥜🌰🧅🥕 Blessings to you and yours......

[@rebeccazody1278]

I am loving my larger container garden with my tomatoes and cucumbers just coming on. My dehydrator is running almost all of the time. Thank you for the education. I could not have done it without you❤️. Bless you!

[@mattsara2802]

I am not at the point of that overwhelm but know that it will come! Thank you for sharing your perspective! So encouraging!

[@trishsandefur2172]

Perfect timing on the pep talk! I was walking through my garden pulling weeds and seeing all the bugs that seemed to have just infested everything overnight and thought "maybe I'm done for the summer already". Ready to get back out there and savor and care for what I can 👍

[@DebbieBlanke]

WOW!!! So a suggestion of a future video is knowing "when to pick". With the green shoulders - I wouldn't have picked those yet. Can you possibly guide us through knowing when its right, ripe & ready? Felt your pain of the damage, but also of your joy. Such a beautiful attitude you have.

[@graceandgarden1423]

Always so encouraging ❤️ Your light shines more than you realize. I Love you and your family.

[@sandracarter9675]

Beautiful dress!

[@chelsiwagner4534]

I'm in MN so I am just staring at my tomatoes daily and living vicariously through you.

[@justpatty7328]

North-central Illinois here, it is taking so long! I'm guessing in the next week and half- I'm praying for ripe maters! I'm enjoying some other goodies from the garden already, quite thankful. Blessings to you all!

[@robinb3963]

Chelsi Wagner me too! I am happy to have baby tomatoes though

[@ooohhitskaren63]

East central Indiana. Garden didn't get planted until June because of the weather. My tomatoes are just setting fruit. Jess is right, shake your tomato plants. I shake the cages, now they are setting fruit. Now if I can get my squash to pollinate...life would be better.

[@SelahHome]

Your comment about what the Garden did for you even when you had stopped watching and working really speaks to the character of God. God has been teaching me so much through my garden this year and this really drove home how, even when we feel too overwhelmed and want to give up, God never stops working on our behalf. He always finishes what he starts. Even when we allow the weeds to grow

[@RootsandRefugeFarm]

So so true

[@donnasmith5697]

That was a GREAT pep talk!!! So many of us need to be reminded of this!! Thanks for the encouragement! You’re a GEM!! Enjoy that tomato sandwich!!!

[@ourfamilygardenmore5051]

Here in North Central North Carolina, Jess you hit it, I was out in my garden today watering ,harvesting, pulling weeds and I thought, as I fill up a bucket full of maters, cukes,squash and zucchini....this is why I do all this. Thank you for the reminder. We forget sometimes the hard things are sometimes the most rewarding and fulfilling! I couldn't have said it better myself!

[@privatesuzie4071]

I went out for the first time in months and chose a nursery to go to. All masked, social distancing....asked a woman at end of the vegetables isle a planting question and she said “you need to watch Roots and Refuge, it is the most wonderful KZbin video and a beautiful homestead garden and I wait every Saturday to get her tours” ....I looked at her and said “ I bless you” ....we laughed and laughed sharing a few more episodes...but at a distance. We were in Berkeley, California!! Small world. Two other women asked about your channel....love this interconnection, especially now!

[@RootsandRefugeFarm]

I love this!!!

[@drewmonroe3747]

Hello Jess and Family!! Drew here. Even though I'm in British Columbia, Canada, our garden weather is so much like yours as is the growing stages of our gardens. Half way through my tomato season and my plants are now over 6ft in height and are producing very large tomatoes like yours. Had to pick the first 'Beef Eater' one last week because it was getting too heavy and I didn't want it to get ruined. Still waiting for it to turn red but my Cherry tomatoes are now finally the first to start turning red!! :) This is my first year to have a large vegetable garden. As you know, I started my planting and then found your channel early in February. Have learned so much from you and because of your insight and patience, I have followed through with mine. We now see the 'fruit of the labor' as our crop is now producing so much incredible looking food! Like a little kid, I cannot wait to taste the very first tomato because we are doing the same way to fertilize our plants like yours. So thank you again, lol, for being my teacher and for virtually helping this amateur gardener enjoy the best year of planting I have ever experienced. God bless you and your family, Jess. It has been such a real pleasure.....Thank you!!!!!!! :)

[@happysfamilywnc]

Beautiful, I can’t wait to harvest ours! The chickens help Carl with tilling before the garden is growing. The baby chicks escaped into the garden and ate our marigolds and luckily the kids got them before they got past the first row! Thanks for sharing!

[@Greens5511]

Yes, not 2 pounds...BUT...u said yesterday that I were going to pick them before the rain so they don't split....I bet had u waited and they filled with more rain water, they would have been 2 pounds....u would have bragging rights....but who cares I bet the flavor is the best as u picked them before the rain 👍👍

[@lindakurtz2653]

Sounds like a metaphor for life. Are we willing to look for the harvest? Go Jess!

[@feliciareed297]

Moms are great! They can always help you see the bright side....love ur videos and ur family.....thanks for sharing....

[@rubysephton-villegas86]

Thank you so much for your encouraging words. We been having some 100+ degree days and it’s just too hot to work in the garden and I feel that my tomatoes plants are getting way from me. Going to try to attend to the garden as it cools off tonight. Your words are always a blessing and breath of fresh air. Bless you.

[@celesteplank7990]

You are a breath of fresh air..so glad I " found " you ..you add so much to so many lives..thank you!

[@IndigoMystik]

You're a sweetheart Jess. Love your positivity & appreciate the encouragement!

[@inderwink]

Jess holding that pepper in her hand like it’s a “garden cigar.” I waited for her to snap a bite at the end to punctuate the point. 🌶👩🏻‍🌾

[@rlportillo]

Oh Jess, how timely your pep talk is! Much needed...thank you! Blessings

[@marinigrey4913]

GREAT PEP TALK.. I have been inspired by you this year.. To go bigger then i have in the past. I've even started growing much more in container's to.. Thank you for your video's...

[@gabrialblair5882]

Show up and the miracle will happen!! You are the miracle!! Blessings