I Have a Confession to Make. It Was ALL About the MONEY

In this video, I make a confession about why I started a food garden and how this evolved into raised bed gardening. Also, I talk about Memorial Day in the USA and what it means to me.
Go here to get Birdies Raised Garden beds (featured in the video) in the USA: shop.epicgardening.com/ and use SSME2020 for a 5% discount plus an automatic extra 15% (20% combined discount) for purchases made before 11.59 pm Monday 30th May *Minimum spend $200.
In Australia, go to birdiesgardenproducts.com.au/ and use Code SSMEbird for a 5% discount. In New Zealand, go to birdiesgardenproducts.co.nz/ and use Code ssmebird22 for 5% off your first purchase.
Plant Doctor Fertiliser: Go to www.plantdoctor.com.au/ and use SSME10 = 10% off products (not shipping).
Ocean2earth Fish Compost: Enter the discount code SSME5 at checkout on their Website here ocean2earth.com.au/ and get a 5% discount on the 1.5L and 3L bags plus free shipping Australia wide!
Harvest Right freeze dryer website: affiliates.harvestright.com/1...
For Australian freeze dryer purchase info use the same link above and then contact Harvest Right directly.
Support me on Patreon: / selfsufficientme (the top tier $25 AU enables mentoring from yours truly via an exclusive VIP email where I will answer your questions etc ASAP).
Hoselink Garden Products such as hose reels go here l.linklyhq.com/l/5uZu and you will automatically get a 10% discount on checkout!
My second channel Self Sufficient Me 2: bit.ly/331edDu
New (third) Channel: Self Suffishing Me bit.ly/2LiIWqt
Help support the Channel and buy a T-shirt/Merchandise from our Spreadshirt shop: bit.ly/3lmqMkr or Teespring bit.ly/3neEYO8
Shop for plants or garden equipment on eBay Australia: bit.ly/2BPCykb
Blog: www.selfsufficientme.com/ (use the search bar on my website to find info on certain subjects or gardening ideas)
Forum: www.selfsufficientculture.com
Instagram: / self_sufficient_me
Facebook: bit.ly/2Zi5kDv
Twitter: / sufficientme
Subscribe to my channel: goo.gl/cpbojR
Self Sufficient Me is based on our small 3-acre property/homestead in SE Queensland Australia about 45kms north of Brisbane - the climate is subtropical (similar to Florida). I started Self Sufficient Me in 2011 as a blog website project where I document and write about backyard food growing, self-sufficiency, and urban farming in general. I love sharing my foodie and DIY adventures online so come along with me and let's get into it! Cheers, Mark :)
*Disclaimer: Some links to products in this description and comments sections are affiliated, meaning, I receive a small commission if you follow these links and then purchase an item. I will always declare in a video if the video is sponsored and so far since starting my channel in 2011, I am yet to do a sponsored video.
#raisedbeds #garden #gardening

[@Selfsufficientme]

G'day Everyone, if you are interested, go here to get Birdies Raised Garden beds (featured in the video) in the USA: shop.epicgardening.com/ and use SSME2020 for a 5% discount plus an automatic extra 15% (20% combined discount) for purchases made before 11.59 pm Monday 30th May *Minimum spend $200. No pressure, of course, I just appreciate you watching my videos and this support on its own helps my channel out heaps. Thanks :)

[@kayeff8415]

Livin' the dream!! Good for you two

[@pepethepunisher521]

Military is not as necessary as you think, all wars were created by the 13 families and our Cia. All wars were paid by the 13 families, they funded both sides.... so basically they paid to watch you die like romans in gladiator times. All wars were unnecessary ones.

[@John.Doe-OG]

Thanks for your service to Mark. The U.S. and Aus have to watch each others backs.

[@craiglambert4943]

Awh darn.. Just bought my first ever raised garden bed and just missed the 15% off by 2 weeks. Thanks for the 5% off though Mark!

[@karenstott7980]

thank you for sharing your journey..bless.

[@verdikulk6193]

I also have a confession to make: I follow you because I want to be more independent from the state and society...

[@zzzwy777]

Same 🌞

[@Isaac-ho8gh]

As long as its not because of extremist beliefs, there's nothing wrong with it.

[@SpectatingBystander]

Exactly 💯🌟🏆

[@BillLaBrie]

@@Isaac-ho8gh Oh dear no! I’m sure it’s due to conformist, everything-is-going-to-be-fine, trust-our-institutions beliefs. Happy?

[@Isaac-ho8gh]

@@BillLaBrie ..when did I say its extremist to disagree with our society?

[@leagreenall5972]

You are sort of a hero of mine. I was a single dad that raised my son by myself, whilst I also had (and still do) severe chronic depression. My son has gone, and I'm left with no focus and I find little to no meaning in this world. I am on a disability pension. I struggle with managing my depression and when the cycle gets bad, I struggle to survive.... I was evicted from my home of 11 years in QLD due to the owner selling, and I was left with the reality I couldn't afford most rents.... so I moved to Tasmania for a sea-change in hope of trying to get some focus and 'live'. I moved to a place where rent is cheap, and I wanted to grow my own food in case the world and economy turns to hell in a hand basket, so I can at least eat, and maybe give excess food to the small community here... so I discovered your channel. And I have learnt so much, but alas you are in sub-tropics, I'm in sub-antarctic weather... so trying to adapt. I am forever failing in my attempts to be motivated and keep some sort of routine as fatigue and my affliction dominates my life.... but I am getting there. I have Siberian tomatoes showing promise, and after your videos on the essential veges to grow, I am trying to set up an indoor gardening place to grow onions, cabbage, potatoes, carrots... and of course my chilis, coriander, mint and basil. I know you don't know me, but to be truthful before I found your channel, I had planned not to be around.... but your openness, honesty, cheerfulness, your adaptability, learning, and your own history has given me a modicum of umph to give it a go, and when I struggle and fail, then I at least get to watch your videos and think, I can give it another go.... I was more of a brown thumb, but learning to change it to green. Thanks mate. I appreciate and respect you for what you do, and what you unknowingly have done for me :)

[@chrisgabriel9871]

Good share

[@candynkeith]

Please stay strong. There is a reason you are here. I cried when I read this. I to suffer with depression and have health issues. I too have thought of just ending it but Mother Earth has showed me that there is a reason I am here. Bless you for admitting it. Keep trying in the garden. You will get there and let the Earth help you out. Stay strong my friend. There is a purpose for all of us.

[@ritasicari7518]

Please love and take care of yourself.

[@downunderveggiegardendiaries]

Try Homesteading DownUnder he is in Tasmania.

[@leagreenall5972]

@@downunderveggiegardendiaries I already do :)

[@MrBgarrido]

Mark you are an absolute legend mate. 10/10 as a human being. Kind, humble, random dad jokes, profound insights ... could this channel be any better?

[@GardeningBarefootTina]

His Dad jokes are the best aren't they?

[@catracampolieto8989]

I tried in 2020 to grow veggies. Failure. That fall, with help, built raised beds. Fall through spring I watched KZbin videos, read information. I felt like I was back in school. 2021 was fantastic. This will be my 4th year gardening. I'm addicted to gardening. I save money, I get such a peacefulness. I will be gardening til I die.

[@twistedpixel2558]

That's awesome. I hope you never loose that interest. People NEED to be educated and interested in providing for themselves what they can where they can. This last covid shutdown taught us all that. Couldn't buy meat, milk, or bread at many, many stores across the U.S. for weeks at a time. Even Walmart was affected by it. It's not feasible or economical for most people to produce all of their food, or even close to it, but a penny saved is a penny earned, and having that skill in your back pocket is a one up on everyone else who doesn't.

[@BaggaB0nez]

To me it seems like it wasn’t all about the money. Some of It was about having time to spend with your family and enjoying the life you’ve been given. You just made the best of it. Keep doing you man 👍

[@TimeSurfer206]

Well, it isn't JUST The Money. BUT, if you don't factor in Risk v Reward, you're dooming yourself to failure. ALWAYS do a Cost-Benefits Analysis.

[@JonP_4-31inf]

Na he would have been homeless and starving. It was about the money.

[@wendyrowland7787]

He forgot to tell you, he also had an army pension.

[@mahnamahna3252]

Supporting yourself and those whom you love does require money... I find this very inspiring to see a family find ways to love and support each other (and others) by finding realistic. problem solving ways to live their lives in healthier, more productive ways

[@GardeningBarefootTina]

Yes, and why not, family, yummy food, fresh air and sunshine.

[@johnryan3102]

Your family's decision years ago not only helped you, it helped the whole world. Thanks for it all.

[@Selfsufficientme]

Thanks John, that's really nice of you to say mate... Cheers :)

[@beyondalpha1072]

Pro Millitary Illuminati Shirt lol Austraila PrisonPlanet gun control central, put on your mask slave

[@samsunguser3148]

Butterfly effect

[@GardeningBarefootTina]

Yes, eating organic is so tastey

[@lisag9752]

Thank you for sharing your story Mark - particularly the mental health issues. I started gardening as caregiver therapy. My husband passed away in February so now gardening helps with grief.

[@Selfsufficientme]

Hi Lisa, sorry for your loss... Thank you for sharing and all the best with your garden and I'm glad gardening is helping. Take care :)

[@slaviapolandia7541]

I am very sorry for your loss.

[@sezcardis362]

Lisa, so sorry for your loss.

[@archael18]

Very sorry for your loss. Keep surrounding yourself with lots of life in your garden.

[@mArydAloisio]

I had no idea how much harder taking care of an adult is than child rearing. They told me to go easy and get lots of help and of course I thought “yeah right” - caregiving is so beautiful yet so exhausting- May God bless and restore you and heal your heart in the gardens Lisa.

[@Freeq73]

As the wife of a medically retired soldier this really resonated with me. Just over a year ago we made the decision to leave the city and buy a little farm on the south coast of NSW, largely for my husbands mental health and our quality of life. I left my career and now concentrate on making the best life possible for both of us. Your videos have been incredibly inspiring to both of us. Thank you.

[@epicgardening]

💯 Appreciate you as always, Mark! Bummed we couldn't meet up this month in Oz, but it'll happen soon :) - cheers and appreciate your service. You're EPIC. - Kevin

[@greddoch95]

I love that you guys are working together. You both had such an impact on me during the pandemic, the gardening world on KZbin is amazing.

[@gillesgodard8709]

Yep Mark and Kevin are fun to watch. I learned a lot... Too bad the birdees bed are not shipped to Europe.

[@UndergroundObsession]

Both of you guys are the kings of gardening KZbin

[@naturalabundances]

Kevin! Hope you are well. Im going to use your tip this year about over wintering chillies

[@NoNORADon911]

Eric! lol. j/k

[@dandiesel9966]

Enjoyed listening to your back story mate. Life can be difficult and we all come across difficult decisions and hardships that require sacrifices and efforts that are normally unimaginable. Don't be sorry for making money, we all need it.

[@Selfsufficientme]

Thank you Dan! Cheers :)

[@SeeStuDo]

I've been growing in an Attic and some containers outside (small apartment living) and the gardening has been very beneficial for my depression, anxiety, and ptsd. Big love to all who find some peace in the plant life 💚

[@mArydAloisio]

“you can only plow the ground under- strewn with grey-edged ashes… salted with barren hate- so many times before something struggles bloody towards the light: blooming against all odds or reason or both” From my writing mentor mike sweeney (Chicago,USA,RIP) poem about my mother called TROY

[@czeremchogrod2497]

Dont you dare talking about lack of sun, cheers from Poland ;) Appreciate the story and honesty in it .

[@GeckoHiker]

We did something similar over twenty-five years ago in the states. We bought cheap land and my husband retired from the US Army. I kept working as a traveling software engineer until working from home became a thing. I believe I invented it. 😉 Now we are semi-retired, debt-free, and running our homestead as an agricultural business. Free-range eggs, goat milk, mushrooms, vegetables, and the free time to volunteer in support of our community. The "two-income" days are a distant nightmare. I'm just glad I could stay home with our babies and feed them naturally as long as we could financially manage it. I am saddened over the pressures that young families face today. You guys made a decision that works for you and it helps the world! Greetings from Missouri!

[@Selfsufficientme]

That's a great story Sandra and thanks for sharing it! Yes, I agree, it sure has become even harder for young families these days to earn a decent income and have a good life balance. Let's hope the rising cost of living stabilises soon. All the best :)

[@Alondro77]

DEBT-FREE is the key. People are clueless about the chains debt puts on you. When I eliminated all my and my parents' debt, the expenses PLUNGED. My little income covers everything, with surplus. The Klaus Schwabb's of the world are the ones pushing the Keynesian lie, that debt is good. They make all their money robbing people blind with high-interest credit debt... as well as 0-interest government money from the 'too big to fail' con artists. Note: in a REAL capitalist system, the big banks would have been permitted to DIE in 2009, because REAL capitalism punishes failure. FASCISM rewards government-connected corporations.

[@LizZorab]

Loved this video Mark! So nice to see some of the story about how you've got to where you are now.

[@Selfsufficientme]

Hi Liz! Thank you, Cheers :)

[@starseedlioness2048]

Mate, I felt that so deeply. Our family has been having a very hard time in Vic over the last 2 years and we bought some cheap land and living in a bus (3 kids and a new baby). Gardening/ growing food helps my mental health issues too. I respect you so much for your service and what you've done for your family. And your wife is obviously an amazing woman too. Thank you for this video. All the very best to your family. ✨✨✨

[@khadijahibrahim6152]

Hello from Singapore. I’m a stay home mum and even though I have only a window garden, I’ve been very inspired by your videos. Please keep up the great work and May God bless you and your family.

[@mordsythe]

My wife is the breadwinner of the home and I too “retired” so that I could raise my kids and look after the home. They are 26 and 24 and both have their own homes and careers. A lot of people (men mainly) can’t or won’t allow their egos to be a home keeper. Well played mate. Love the channel. Keep up the good work

[@melodytenisch6232]

Your children were surely blessed to have you home as little ones! Much respect! Well done!👵😁👍👍

[@mordsythe]

@@GodhandPlusOne I’d say that’s a fair split. I’ve met plenty of both genders that do that.

[@mordsythe]

@@GodhandPlusOne also.. wasn’t man bashing. :)

[@Auguur]

@@GodhandPlusOne Everyone lies and manipulates. It is how we have survived. Unless one is completely self aware constantly, our unconscious motivations direct our behaviors which inevitably lead to lying and manipulating.

[@kdavis4910]

@@GodhandPlusOne a man once ruined my life with lying manipulative physical abuse and he never faced consequences for his hateful actions 🎬.

[@prunabluepepper]

The benefits of gardening for PTSD are immense! it helps to focus, calm down and create. Creating something, of having plants grow of nourishing is soothing and gives perspective. Gardening soothes PTSD with serenity. As a soldier you combat governments, people, or ideas - even kill - to protect the land on which you now grow food. As a cop you protect the community that can now profit from the garden. As EMS you rush to the aid of those who do the gardening. It all comes together, the whole struggle that caused the PTSD was not senseless. The sunshine helps with Vitamin D and serotonin, you get more oxytocin from caring for crops or animals, the hard work allows you to sleep better. It is so beneficial.

[@trilliarobinson7862]

And for those not so keen on veggie gardening, become a plant nurse ! Most garden centres have racks of rejects, plants that are no longer deemed saleable. Some, of course, are annuals, and shouldn't even be offered for sale once they are past their best. But others may simply have bloomed and now no-one wants them, because so many buy on immediate gratification ! Taking these sick chums home, giving them water, a bit of seaweed, and a lot of care, often results in you having plants you hadn't even heard of before. And so often they repay your care with flowers, fruit, whatever.

[@magesalmanac6424]

I never knew that. I’ll see if my local nurseries have plants that need adoption. I’m terrible at gardening but it’s so relaxing 😌

[@trilliarobinson7862]

@@magesalmanac6424 There's usually a little corner where the ailing patients are put aside, some beyond hope ! Major chains often cast out plants simply for losing their blooms - or even their labels. So you can get real bargains on a good day.

[@prunabluepepper]

@@magesalmanac6424 some cities also have community fruit trees, or trees for rent. If no-one of this is available you can still try to grow things at home that are hardy. Nowadays they have indoor tomato or strawberry. The only thing you need is a south facing window. If you want something less maintenance intensive your can take flowers seeds and beautify your neighborhood. You only need to make sure to choose a place where nobody mows the flowers down. That's basically guerilla gardening. If you want to try home gardening you can choose from a variety of hardy plants. Poppy or corn flowers are low maintenance usually. So is lavender or peppermint. Obviously you'd be getting less work out of it, but it's a start to grow something.

[@lelleithmurray235]

@@trilliarobinson7862 five years ago,I picked up a bedraggled dracaena on clearance at my local IKEA store. It was about 4feet tall,in a pot way too small,with massive dry ends. Fast forward to now ~ she is now over nine feet tall,and blossomed for the first time last winter. The scent was heavenly! I feel like such a proud mum! A little slip of pothos I picked off a fence has now morphed into 3 massive plants. Hopefully 4 by Christmas. And yes,checking the rejects flat at Walmart resulted in two Birkin philodendron that I haven't killed yet!😊 You are so right growing things. As long as the plants give pleasure to the eye and soul it's good!😊

[@cathiner6612]

Thank you for your service to your country! You are a joy!! Both my husband and I retired military here in the U. S. and understand the shock that comes from leaving the military and having to become "civilian" again!! It can be rough. You are an inspiration!

[@stine69]

Thank you, Mark, for your video. It had gotten this disabled veteran to stop feeling sorry for herself and to start garden again. I am not way up there like you are but in a few years I just might be. Also… thank you for your service to your country as well. Many blessings from Tampa, Florida: USA. 😇

[@McDowallManor]

Good for you mate. Yeah, I figured it before starting. The same for me. "If you can't increase your income, then decrease your costs." I suffer anxiety/depression disorder. The garden saved me, and I lost 20kg. Fresh fruit and veg costs are going nuts. $8 for a cabbage. If you can find a lettuce, good luck. And, most of all, thank you and Nina for your service. Sincerely.

[@lauramaeputnam4803]

Thank you for remembering American Veterans

[@user-rx2ur5el9p]

$8 for one cabbage? Holy Christ.

[@Selfsufficientme]

G'day Andy! I didn't know about the anxiety and weight loss - if you mentioned them in a video I must have missed it but well done and it's good to know gardening has helped also. Yes mate, veggies are rocketing up in price. Anyone with a garden bed full of lettuce is sitting on a leafy gold mine at the moment... Cheers :)

[@michaelbyrnee9584]

Mark, your channel is like an oasis in the middle of internet wasteland! I really appreciate getting some of your back story, and I cannot express my appreciation enough for your mention of Memorial Day. Your care and concern always seem to shine through - today more than ever!

[@Selfsufficientme]

G'day Michael and thanks mate! All the best :)

[@GardeningBarefootTina]

Mark always has something interesting to chat about don't you think Micheal?

[@AKJJSIM]

Thank you for your service. The wife and I both served 20 years. Retired in Alaska, she has her career and I grow food, hunt, fish and raise our boys.

[@helamananders9377]

I am semi retired now and my wife still works and keeps us in a home. Thanks for your story, I am working hard to grow enough food to can and store.

[@ricksolosailor5804]

Your channel is definitely one of KZbin’s very best : The saying goes that learning is most effective if one can have fun while learning. You are a very effective teacher. You videos are simultaneously fun and informative.

[@Selfsufficientme]

Thank you Rick! Cheers mate :)

[@italiana626sc]

So nice to hear the back story of how you and Nina got where you are today. And big thanks for kind words about the USA and our fallen but not forgotten service men and women. Giving thanks to you and Nina for the service to your country, too.

[@lisag9493]

Well said,, growing your own food is not just about saving money, so many other benefits ,, best wishes, Lisa

[@robotsnthat]

Thank you for remembering our fallen, and also those recent vets who still struggle with mental health issues. I'm an ex Royal Navy Submariner who served in the cold war, and these issues are very relevant. I've just been made redundant from my post military career (moved to Oz 20 years ago) and looking as to where to go next. Gardening has always helped me - especially veggies, but looking forward to being able to do more now. Wish I had your space, but a 450 sqm block in Western Sydney will do fine for now. Thank you, and your wife for your service. Love your channel and outlook on life. I hope that one day I'll achieve the contentment that you have 👍

[@beatieswanepoel3004]

Lost my husband a few months ago and I find that the container veggie garden keeps me busy, helps with finances and good for mental health. I try to bottel or freeze as much as I can.

[@stephaniebalducci6248]

💗

[@savannahdockins7022]

I grew up in a farming family. I know that when I was growing up our garden was the difference between eating or starving most years. We depended on what we produced winter and summer. We also had apple and peach trees along with wild berries. When the kids were young and we both had to work to pay bills, we always had a small garden for fresh veggies through the summer. Now we are both retired and the kids have moved on and have children of their own, we make a big garden again. The grandkids are learning how to garden and preserve the veggies.

[@Selfsufficientme]

G'day Savannah, you're a wonderful example of growing your own food and handing these life skills down to the next gen so they can benefit also. All the best :)

[@leonsteyns]

The world would really be a better place if we had more people like you and Nina! Seriously. So good on you to take the plunge into uncertainty for yourselves and the boys (also a great example for them!) And of course it’s about the money, it always is. You gotta be able to pay the bills, right? We all do. I think your attitude towards it is really great. All the best to you and family. Cheers!

[@c.lyttle3017]

Especially loved this video. Your open discussion about struggles is heartwarming. Your work ethics are always inspiring.

[@razer2038]

As an Australian, thank you for yours and your wife's service and thank you to the American service men and women. I think it's definitely important at the moment to encourage self sufficiency and I wish I had the availability to grow more than just herbs. Winter veg and chickens would be great

[@goldengryphon]

Quail can be kept in a bird cage inside if it's a space or Home Owner's Association problem. Or pigeons. I can't offer any suggestions on winter veggies, though. I have trouble keeping plants alive.

[@graysenm1320]

You really seem like such a kind and thoughtful man. I have nothing but respect for you and your family and I’m glad that you becoming a content creator has helped your family out. Haha maybe it’s your Aussie accent in my American ears playing tricks on me but I doubt that. I wish you a happy Memorial Day from over here in the States.

[@stevesmith3556]

Gardening saved my life from PTSD. It gave me something to focus on and gave me a sense of accomplishment. Thank you for the recognition and thank YOU for your service too!

[@davidengel8887]

Thank you for your service Mate (and your wife)! My wife watches you all the time. 👍😀

[@mwmentor]

Hey Mark: hats off to you and your wife for recognizing that her skills set would immediately benefit society when she hit civvies street, and her family financially. That's a big step and often hard for a proud man - you have demonstrated great respect, love, and humility in the decision that you and her reached back then and that is really cool. And anything to save money and create more independence for yourselves at the same time is a really good thing to do. And you have gone further, by making a huge store house videos that you share with your KZbin family that really valuable, filled with amazing insights and value for each and everyone of your audience. Well done to you and your family. You are an inspiration to me and my family, and am sure, To the rest of your audience as well. Thanks for sharing... I always enjoy watching you videos... 👍👍👍😀

[@Selfsufficientme]

Thank you for those very kind words and also for your support of my channel. All the best :)

[@mwmentor]

@@Selfsufficientme Hi Mark. It’s a pleasure 👍😃

[@jody-annesullivan4547]

This is a great comment, and basically what I came to say. Love the information Mark gives, often at ‘here’s what I did wrong’ or ‘if you do it this way’, you feel like you are being guided, not lectured.

[@robertziawinski6554]

Great decision for both of you! Congratulations on your paths! You are an inspiration to all of us!

[@melodytenisch6232]

I agree.😊👍

[@melanieallen3655]

Thankyou to everybody for their service..Am very greatful!!

[@NoalFarstrider]

Thank you, every man and woman who's served for freedom for your service. This is the only heartfelt way I could tell you.

[@bazev9444]

I imagine you're boys have had a happy and healthy life growing up in the countryside with all the space to play. You are living the dream, all the best to you and your family 🥰

[@chelseajones4141]

From a military family, to yours, thank you for your service, and your wives' 🇺🇲 As always, your content is spot on & very in touch with what the world needs to hear in this moment. Wishing you sunny skies and happy harvesting 🌿 ✌️

[@raynierllewis2827]

Bla ble plot gr ti

[@michaelk4546]

You and your wife are Aussie heroes. I am struggling. I have made many life changes not even from gardening learned from you. Ur channel makes me think about all the wastes in my life and the money I make. I now find it fun building and increasing value from work and not waste on unnecessary expenses. Well done Mark

[@michaelk4546]

PS I hate Melbourne gardening lol

[@kengrow3992]

I’ve been following you for a few years .That picture of you. What looks like 20 years ago was quite shocking. So young. Thank you for all your good advice.

[@peripheralinkling]

As a former US Army SGT, I really appreciate your story. I've loved watching you produce, learn and educate. Thanks for all of the many hours of fantastic content!

[@Selfsufficientme]

Thanks Sergeant for your service! All the best mate :)

[@tomdalton4016]

Takes team work to make the dream work

[@sherriroach6]

This is exactly why me and my husband’s retirement plan always included having land to raise our own food. Thank you for your content because it’s provides both knowledge and motivation!

[@amyk6028]

What a great video. Like the old saying goes “You’ve come a long way baby!” It’s a blessing you got to spend more time with your babies and adopted a hobby that has not only served you well mentally but also financially 👍🏼

[@beyondalpha1072]

Pro Millitary Illuminati Shirt LOL ...... the jooish cicus roles on

[@lisapop5219]

I hear you. My husband is retired military too. His body is pretty messed up and he also has ptsd. He loves it. We aren't able to buy raised beds yet but he is enjoying it so much that he quadrupled the size this year and got into trellises and not so much staking. Thank you and your wife for your service from one service family to another. Our son is in and just had his first reenactment so we aren't done yet.

[@rachalnocchi5600]

My husband suffers from PTSD as well. 100% disabled veteren. I was the one that began gardening about 3 years ago, when Tony retired. Now he's getting more and more involved too! We cant afford raised beds yet, but are going to purchace cattle fencing to use as trellis next year. This year has been interesting, grass and weeds are just crazy! Best of luck to you! Happy gardening!

[@lisapop5219]

@@rachalnocchi5600 to you as well. Mine is also 100% permanent. Happy gardening!

[@racheleallison5237]

@@rachalnocchi5600 I heard a vlogger here mention using concrete mesh wire instead of cattle panels as it is cheaper. Not sure the integrity but worth investigation. : )

[@moonorchid9242]

@@racheleallison5237 rio is very sturdy, that’s exactly why they use it to reinforce concrete. It does get surface rust in the elements though. I have a couple of rio panels in my yard that I’ve had for many years & they’re still very strong, just have surface rust. Doesn’t worry my plants though :) Not sure if cattle panels rust or not, just thought id mention it. Happy gardening 🥔

[@racheleallison5237]

@@moonorchid9242 Tysm. so good to know. : ) You are so helpful......

[@TheMillennialGardener]

This is a great video, Mark. I relate to this. Both Brittany and I are fortunate to have good full-time jobs, and we are lucky to enjoy our jobs. However - and there is always a “however” - dedicating all that time every week is just exhausting and draining. Even the best jobs in the world cause burnout, and burnout is regularly cyclical for, I’m sure not just us, but virtually everyone working full-time. Managing both a full-time career and a channel like this is two full-time jobs in one, but I’m doing what I can while I’m young(ish) and still have good recovery. Outlets like KZbin are wonderful since they allow people like us to create content that actually helps benefit the viewer in a positive way instead of the “typical” junk you find in so much of the social media world. Your story is very inspiring, and it shows the value of tenacity. The #1 trait of successful people is just that: tenacity. The ability to get back up after being knocked down and always push forward is key, because you only need to succeed once to be successful. Thanks for posting this and showing us all how far you’ve come, because it shows us that we can all do it.

[@Selfsufficientme]

Thanks mate, and well done to you for achieving what you have with your channel as a "second job" I'm impressed! Cheers :)

[@Hopespringseternal]

Thank you, Mark. You’ve inspired me, an intimidated gardener, more than anyone regarding gardening. In past couple weeks, I’ve buried kitchen scraps, planted a couple veggies and flowers in our bed (which came with house but can’t wait to build another box), started composting, and have learned so much about, well, so much. Thank you for your candidness, your service, and for honoring Memorial Day. In tears here because I didn’t know other parts of the world remembered our men and women, too. I greatly appreciate you. You’re a special man. Sincerely, Ann from California

[@wybuchowyukomendant]

preach it! Since I started gardening I have my anxiety under control, without any meds.

[@rhondaverma6358]

I love your videos. They inspire me.

[@wildchook745]

I thoroughly enjoyed this video, Mark. You come across as a gentle and humble Aussie. You stayed true to who you are. I love your approach to gardening and sharing your journey with us. You know, I'm a big fan of you, Nina and the boys. btw, I hope the water in your yard has dried up by now.

[@Selfsufficientme]

Hey Mary! Hope you are well. Thank you... The water is slowly drying out but Nina still needs gumboots to go a pick some oranges or veggies so it's still too wet (especially to mow, etc). This wind and cold front (with a bit of sun and clear sky) might be the key to speeding up the drying process - fingers crossed... All the best :)

[@bethwenner]

Thank you for sharing about your PTSD. I suffer from chronic PTSD and I've been surprised at how healing it has been to work in my vegetable garden. I've had a particularly difficult week, but I dug up the grass along the side of our garage to put in a new bed and somewhere along the way it helped heal what I was feeling. Sometimes this feels like a hopeless and dooming black mark of a diagnosis, but you are such a bright ray of light, it lifts my spirit to know that you share the same condition. When I watch your videos, I feel like there is hope and joy and love in the world and for people like me.

[@michaelangelo6947]

Thank you for your service, too.

[@Dennis_Heaton]

From an ex-serviceman to another from a great ally country, we understand how much of a family you become in the military. All I can say is thanks for the great videos, my brother.

[@penderyn8794]

It was always easier to get a cushy job in the military industrial corporations like Lockheed than risk your life as an underpaid private on the frontline of some random desert

[@Selfsufficientme]

Thanks Dennis, much-appreciated mate, all the best and cheers to you :)

[@ainlalima1677]

What a beautiful thing to say about America! Thank you! You are the best!

[@ericmraustralia1252]

Wow I get 2 Thank you's, one for watching this video and another for serving my country ( as my Father and Grandfather did many years ago ). " LEST WE FORGET ". And thank you Mark for your services to our Nation.

[@couturehelvetica1261]

Yasssss, I was waiting for another new video of yours. Thank you so much for sharing! It's been great to learn about what started you on your gardening journey. All the best from sunny Switzerland :)

[@AwakenedOne447]

This is the way we were created to live! Off the land! “He gave us everything to sustain us”! Such a wonderful life for you and your family! You made the right decision, as I’m sure your boys are doing well with this. Thank you for all you share with us. 🥰🙌🏼🙌🏼

[@Fearls1]

Problem is with how much land it requires to just feed one person. You would need to plant about 1 hector of land full of crops per person to have enough to live for one year! This is not possible with our billions of humans.

[@sooky2253]

@@Fearls1 you're not accomplishing anything just looking at the problem objectively. You forgot about the number of crops you can grow in the same bed through the year, about the crops you can grow vertically, about the crops you can grow indoors in many different ways. Get out there and do it instead of keeping accounts!

[@zachdavidson5248]

Better to be a warrior In a garden than a gardener in a war

[@d.b.sorensen827]

Thanx mate i was 7 yrs USNavy and am now retired and raised bed gardening for fun and groceries your SSME videos are watched by me often ! Thanks a million for your service too!

[@br3wd4ddy]

Mark, as a US Veteran and avid gardener, this is my favorite video you have made. Thank you for what you do and thank you for the kind words to American soldiers. And THANK YOU for YOUR service!

[@Selfsufficientme]

Thanks for your service Theodore and I'm glad you enjoyed this video - I really appreciate your feedback. Take care and all the best mate :)

[@melissamoore521]

Thank you for your service, both in the military, and on KZbin! Happy Memorial Day from a mate in the U.S of A!

[@roxanasmith6288]

my DAD surved in the Veit Nam war a medic in Quin Yon (not sure of spelling). and when he came home he retired with 20years in the Army. A.ll my Brothers and i are very proud of him. He died a couple of years ago.but he was such a get it done dad. THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE as well

[@lisabairdlifecoach]

Thank you for your service. I’m a former US Marine. I really appreciate your videos. I discovered you during the height of Covid and you really raised my spirits, taught me some things about gardening I didn’t know, and occasionally made me laugh. That’s a good thing. Thank you.

[@Mel-vu9ss]

Thank you for yours and your wife’s service to the cause of freedom around the world. Whether we are American or Australian the fight for freedom has always been and still is real. As an American military mom I appreciate you mentioning our men and women who gave their lives for that fight. Many prayers to you and your precious family.

[@AnitaSouthall]

🇦🇺💜🇺🇲🖐🤲

[@Mel-vu9ss]

@@AnitaSouthall ❤️

[@justinw1765]

What recent war or battle have soldiers fought and died for, that actually protected our "freedoms" or made us more safe? The wars and aggression of the last 60 years have actually done much harm to the cause of freedom and safety. When you bomb the crap out of poor countries and kill MANY innocent civilians, you actually create terrorists and make people hate the US. Please learn to think critically and logically and stop being programmed by propaganda and the likes of Fox "news".

[@Mel-vu9ss]

@@justinw1765 if your talking to me, I was referring to the boots on the ground men and women who are risking their lives everyday or have died. They are worth remembering and thanking. I am not, however, referring to the governments who continue to put these people at risk. FYI I watch no main stream anything.

[@DwightHayles]

Thank you for your service as well Mark. I was also airborne. 82nd Airbrone.

[@adamhippiebeard2981]

Thanks for serving even in a different country. We still live in one world, one love, mother earth keeps spinning. Peace, Love, Harmony, and Everything for the good of Family.

[@ryandixon1102]

Bro this was a quality of life change. I wish I could do it

[@SouthernLatitudesFL]

Nice! Some was money for me but mostly, I became allergic to dairy and unknown items in processed food. I homeschooled our boys, so it was an easy transition.

[@UAVfutures]

My 5 year old watches you each night before bed and she wanted to say "mark, I ate my brussel sprouts at dinner and found some Goldie locks soil in our garden" Cheers for the videos

[@wendyburgess2962]

That’s awesome. Sowing a seed literally for the little ones to desire a healthier alternative. Food for thought.

[@q7jdwomfvkbj74]

READ HER A BOOK.

[@q7jdwomfvkbj74]

children are becoming sociopaths due to these screens

[@K.R.O1875]

@@q7jdwomfvkbj74 I think it's probably due to neuroticism like blaming wholesome KZbin videos on complex mental illnesses, more than it is said wholesome KZbin videos.

[@vanyaserra1]

@@q7jdwomfvkbj74 who are you to tell another person how to parent their child?

[@kimberlyworkman619]

As a single mom, I'm always inspired by gardening. Here in the USA, groceries are the economy is terribly high. I love watching and learning from you!

[@barryrahn5957]

Mark I really enjoyed learning some of your personal history I got a friend down under. I'm not a gardener, but I enjoy gardening vicariously with you, cheers!

[@barryrahn5957]

Mark's a cool dude - good on ya mate!

[@Selfsufficientme]

Thank you Barry! Cheers :)

[@rebeccahherdener2068]

I loved seeing and hearing more about what got you into this lifestyle, and how self-sufficient me became the amazing channel it is today! Thank you for sharing it all with us! 💕 My family and I LOVE your channel, and all the amazing info and fun that goes on in each video! It never gets boring, and there is usually a smile waiting in each video!💕🥰💕 Thank you for all the love and dedication you give both your BEAUTIFUL food garden, and this yt channel! We appreciate you!

[@melodytenisch6232]

Nicely put! Yes, Mark makes gardening extra fun. I love it anyway but a few experts on the Tube have made it even more fun.👵😁😁😁👍

[@rebeccahherdener2068]

@@melodytenisch6232 very true! He's one of my fav yt content creators, because of all the fun "experiments" he does in his garden, and the jokes/puns he slips in some videos. Lol. Definitely keeps things lively and interesting! That takes a LOT of effort!💕

[@melodytenisch6232]

@@rebeccahherdener2068 You're so right! Mark's a charming hoot! Lol. And honest to boot.😀🦉🌱🌱🌱🌻🍃

[@Selfsufficientme]

Thanks HEAPS Rebeccah! All the best :)

[@alexsmith0013]

As another veteran with PTSD such as yourself, I concur that gardening is awesome therapy. Thank you for the great video Mark!

[@Selfsufficientme]

G'day Alex! Yeah mate, I love nothing more than just strolling around the garden chilling out or working out (especially with all the weeds growing like crazy lately). Best therapy alright! Cheers :)

[@paulinalang8930]

I am 1/4 Irish…..my Great Grandfather and his whole family , immigrated from Ireland to Canada , during the potato famine. [ Some of us get the words emigrate and immigrate mixed up….. Emigrate is not another word for Immigrate.] *Emigrate means to change locations within a country you were born in. *Immigrate means to leave the country you were born in , to live in another country .

[@mindtek_aus]

Thanks for your service too Mark. I didn't know your back story ... Thank you for sharing. You're an inspiration in so many ways. 🤩😍

[@bigjohn52069]

there were many reasons i got into gardening, some are the same as yours. gardening is a lot cheaper than therapy and pill popping for PTSD. right there with you.

[@cadillacjack2652]

Im also a veteran paratrooper with some injuries and I found your videos while researching raised gardening techniques. You're living the dream. I watch your videos and cant wait for the day I finally buy a house. Got my eye on a couple acres, but intetest is crazy in the states. Thanks for the content

[@vonbaconstien760]

I cant overstate my appreciation for your genuine humility and honesty

[@terryberg2077]

Much love your way Mark. My heart is bursting with joy and gratefulness for all of your success. Well deserved. Thank you for your Memorial Day remembrance. I garden because the food tastes better, is healthier, I eat more vegetables this way and I need the exercise.

[@Selfsufficientme]

Thanks Terry! I sure agree that homegrown certainly tastes better too! Cheers :)

[@loubowen8082]

I can completely understand that you both knew that it work for your family.

[@RickMarshallMaps]

Thank you Mark for sharing your and Nina's stories. I am a retired US Air Force C-130 Navigator with a pretty beaten up body too, primarily my back from a couple of very hard landings that did damage to my spine that I needed some major surgery to fix. I have found the same benefits from gardening. I have been using some smaller, lower raised beds for my garden, but you have convinced me to go with the taller galvanized raised beds. You are an inspiration for all of us. Thank you and Nina both for your service and sacrifice. Freedom is never easy. God bless you guys

[@cakedreamer85]

Thank you for acknowledging Memorial Day! That’s so kind of you…this is indeed, a special day of remembrance for us.

[@loganrideout9151]

As a combat vet myself let me just say thank you for your services. We are from different countries but I did serve with some of you guys in Iraq. Also I've been a fan of your videos for a while. They have helped me in starting my own little garden and so far so good.

[@lisawoods9391]

If no one has told you yet, THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE! Both in the military, AND for all you do for your wife and family. . :)

[@Th3Snipe]

Hey Mark. Your story touched me in a way because since I've started gardening which came as a way out of my deep depression I finally started feeling better. You were the first youtuber I watched for information about soil/seeds and gardening as whole. It had great positive effects on me and I thought long and hard about is to why. 1. What you've said, sunlight is very good (I sat behind a computer screen almost 24/7) 2. physical hard work (got my body healthier) 3. psychological effect of caring for plants which automatically resulted in caring for my own body (eating more healthy, being more hygenic etc) 4. setting goals and keeping them (which resulted in setting goals for my own life and caring for them as well) 5. Having the jjoy to pick my first harvest and enjoying cooking them which resulted in me eating much more healthy. Thank you for being there with your positive attitude which kept me going trough a hard part of my life. I can say I'm much better now but still not there yet but it's a positive experience for once!

[@darwingreen717]

I'm watching this a year after the fact but the message is still the same. You and Epic Gardening are my main sources of gardening inspiration. I'm a single father feeling the pinch of high inflation and this year I'm making an effort to beat out the grocery store for produce. Not only is home gardening a good investment but I feel like the other benefits: reducing emissions (by reducing demand on commercial farming), mental health, exercise, education, and enjoyment, allow my son and I to share and create memories that will last a lifetime. When I want to know something about what to do in the garden I put on you or Kevin and I feel prepared to increase the production of backyard veggies. Even my son is starting to watch these videos, and it makes me happy. Every year the garden gets bigger! Cheers!

[@godsgreenacreshomestead708]

Thank you Mark and Nina for your service! I am a proud Navy daughter and Mom. Nice to see the boys having fun in the garden hunting Easter eggs! Many blessings, Texas Deb ❤️😁

[@Green.Country.Agroforestry]

Hi Mark! We've watched your channel off and on for a few years now, and I can't believe I hadn't subscribed yet! My experiences in the Gulf War changed my intended career trajectory considerably - and we also wound up with me (Dad) staying home while the missus kept on making the big $$. That might not make a lot of sense to some folks - but dealing with vomit, poo, blood and screams of pain was something that I'm already well adjusted to .. and I also cook 😉 The therapeutic value of growing a garden really can't be understated .. and getting higher quality ingredients at lower cost for our home cooked meals is another great benefit!

[@Selfsufficientme]

G'day mate! LOL... Yes, military service sure prepares you well for babies and toddlers! All the best :)

[@darrenmurray861]

I am a pacifist, yet I appreciate the irony that without service and sacrifice from people such as yourself, I would have the luxury of being. Thank you to you for your service and that of other service personnel in free democracies everywhere. The world is not a perfect place, yet our relative peace in history is down to you and those who continue to fight politically for peace too.

[@jabojr5171]

Thank you for you and your wife's service, you helped just as much.

[@serenaaltea755]

I just have to say Mark, you are a very inspirational person, I started my food garden because of your videos, unfortunately due to all this rain here in Brisbane it hasn't fared very well but I'm determined to keep trying :) Thank you for all you do :)

[@Godwinpounds4333]

Hello how are you doing?

[@glendasmith7926]

Our food garden is suffering from all the rain in Bundy too. The zucchini flower, start to form them rot. Very disheartening. But we will keep trying

[@Selfsufficientme]

G'day Serena! Congrats on starting your food garden and if it's any consolation I think everyone's garden around SEQ is suffering at the moment (including mine) but we'll bounce back again soon. All the best :)

[@carollollol]

I love your sincerity. 🥰 Always spreading positivity with an added joke to make us laugh. :) THANKS!

[@hillaryrono2593]

You are a living legend Mark, you don't need to change anything, just continue being yourself. I'm not sure if you know the impact you have on your viewers, simply inspiring. Self sufficiency all the way, In any way shape or form

[@sanchalis6010]

The whole world needs to see this video, if they want a healthy mind and body. Cannot stress enough about the beneficial effects of garden for people with PTSD. It's a life changer. I love your humility and humor Mark. Keep up the good work and keep inspiring us to grow more. Thanks

[@shay4461]

Thank you for sharing your story. Makes me respect you even more. God bless you and your family. Thank you and your wife for your service. I live in Michigan, USA. I am surrounded by farm land. I can't physically tend to a garden in the ground anymore. I bought 3 raised garden beds and thanks to you and your videos, I'm planting a garden. I would like to see, if possible, how you store what you can't consume from your garden. I don't know much about your winters, if you even have them, but we sure do. Thanks for your videos.

[@Godwinpounds4333]

Hello how are you doing?