If I Had a Homesteading Do-Over | The Things I'd Do Differently If I Could | Roots and Refuge

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[@pfeenxh]

I’m an urban pioneer woman. Yes you read that correctly. I live in NYC and I pretty much make everything I have in my home. There are no chemicals in my home, I make cleaning products, beauty products and all my foods from scratch. I love to can. Not in love with sewing but i also do that as well. This year 2020 I’m planning to leave this city for rural NM. I want my own place where I can raise chickens, food, etc., And you give me hope

[@Revelation21.4]

I pray you made it! Fellow NM resident here. ❤

[@doulacoach6801]

I am just watching Jess's vlog now. I SO hope you were able to get out of the City ( its 3 yrs later now) & are now on yr own homestead! I'm from the tri-state area & currently living in Colorado. Hoping to get a small property next year, to fulfill my homesteading dream of 40 years! Best of luck to you! Jess is so inspirational!

[@lucylu530]

For me, a small farm is just a dream. I live in California and real estate is just too expensive. So nine years ago, we decided to turn our back yard into our version of a mini farm. Every year I plant as much food as possible and love everything about it. We even added three arch trellises after watching one of your videos. Thanks for passing all this great info to your viewers.

[@mtnblubird4304]

Awww.. you are so great. You talked me off the ledge. Several years ago I lost my small farm, my business, my marriage and had to move and start over. Me and my 2 girls have been living in a city since then, and I just never stopped grieving I think. We had dairy goats, alpacas, chickens, horses, and a good size garden. In about 3 years my youngest will go off to college and I want to revive my farm life!! But now I’m almost 50! Can I really go and start over? again?....Anyways... you have encouraged me see things in a more positive way. I’ve put in some raised beds last year, and have been planning for a few chickens and bees - but I just dont do it because of the ‘its not complete’ thing. ‘Its not what I want’. Oh gosh, I realize now how spoiled that sounds. So thank you for your sensible and thoughtful reflections. You are a natural uplifter!

[@ozarkheritagehomestead1729]

We just started our journey! And it has taken years to get here!!! I think we forget that today was yesterday's dream, so enjoy it!! It's never too late to begin again! We started to record our progress via KZbin too, and I hope to remember to be joyful through it all :)

[@Reciprocity_Soils]

At 53 I'm hoping a steady pace to homesteading will finally get me there.

[@TrishDigginsDesign]

I’m in my late 40s and just moved out of a condo to a home. I can’t do anything this extensive, but I figure a little a year and I’ll be there by retirement! Good luck and enjoy the journey!

[@EskimoInAlaska]

just in case you don't know this.... you don't need a business license to pursue a profitable hobby

[@NotAnAngryLesbian]

Create a bit at a time. You will find your own happy place. Also known as a physical limit. ;)

[@jamjar5716]

Well, what do you know! She DID have a homestead do over! Congratulations Jess and Miah!

[@amymanoharan284]

My husband took the diving board approach to chickens to a whole new level. I wanted 'some chickens' I got 27. The next thing I knew... we had 450, a poultry farm and he was like "well you wanted them." *Blink blink blink* My husband doesn't do chicken math.. he does chicken calculus.

[@mydailyreward2090]

Tell him you want "some jewelry" and see what happens. 27 chicken into 450?? You should be getting a whole jewelry store 😄😄

[@crystalturner8274]

@@mydailyreward2090 hahahhaa that's hilarious!

[@sholashola6891]

That's freaking hilarious yo!

[@matthewmoore7817]

Hell yeah

[@DavidSimsStocks]

I want to see a video.

[@lindsaywait8763]

She has totally inspired me, I just built 2 raised beds and planted my first fall garden in our urban backyard. Here's to starting small but actually starting!

[@RootsandRefugeFarm]

Yay! I love hearing that!

[@chomama1628]

A dream is just a dream without working daily to make it a reality. One step at a time and you eventually get there if you don’t give up. No one can take it away if you want it bad enough.

[@mydailyreward2090]

How did it go and what are you going to do this spring? ♥️♥️

[@lindsaywait8763]

@T'pol Trek I've certainly learned a lot! Lettuce and cabbage grew well, carrots too. We've been composting our kitchen and yard waste to amend the soil, which has been great. Unfortunately, once the leaves come in the spring we have too much shade in our yard! Looking for partial shade varieties.

[@lindsaywait8763]

@@mydailyreward2090 It 's trial and error, lettuce and cabbage grew! Right now I have peas, squash, corn, tomatoes, peppers, spinach and onions growing. Time will tell!

[@jeangraze8031]

"Fear can't sustain it. It has to be passion." So true for everything in life.

[@willchoate7072]

Hey Lady, love what you're doing. I'm retired, 64, living with my best friend and wife. I had 12 acres in Seale Alabama. Had a few chickens and a small garden. When I retired we decided to move close to Atlanta to be closer to the kids grandkids and great grandkids. I was sure the small farm life I loved was over. God bless my wife Lyn. She found us 3 ,1/2 acres with a small barn and a workshop. Last year after watching your videos, I built a couple of raised beds from old metal garage door panels. Back in November I built a chicken coop like the ones Carolina coops sells. We now have 17 chickens. From McMurray, they really are a good company. This year I'll put in more beds. It was so wonderful last year having the 2 and 3 year olds helping pick tomatoes and bell pepper. Then coming in and eating what we just picked. I just wanted to thank you for helping us get back into gardening. What you're doing really is important.

[@hoss5299]

Jess you should be a public speaker, your that inspiring. I know you're shy but you have a talent. Your vlogs whether it's General inspiration and information or spiritual Journeys are really inspiring and my favorites. You have a way that makes folks feel that they've known you forever and can trust your opinions you are truly a blessing to Folk's. Never underestimate yourself you bring a lot to the table. Thank you

[@cliffandrews]

Jess is a public speaker. She holds church in her home and you know she has a bit to say.

[@RootsandRefugeFarm]

Thank you Hoss! I've done some speaking, and as Cliff commented as well, we do have a home church, though that looks less like public speaking and mroe like family. Thank you for your comment, I really appreciate you taking the time to encourage me!

[@dreyno64]

Hoss She really has a sweet way about her. Not a bossy know-it-all or silly. Just very personable.

[@cliffandrews]

I know. I wish I could attend their church. I think the best of their family.

[@RootsandRefugeFarm]

Y’all bless me so much!

[@alicejump2290]

Such good advice, at 73yrs. I look back at a time where we keep three large gardens, canned, pickled and froze a great deal of food for ourselves and extended family. My in-laws were so knowledgable about all aspects of living off the land, while not homesteading, they combined farming, small stock keeping, fruit trees and utilized wild plants. We helped other family members maintain their livestock, so our freezer was full of beef, we made cider and fruit jams, we allowed a bee keeper in our orchard for honey. Clearly community and family provided all we really needed! And it was fun, because we did it together!

[@vden02]

Alice Jump And working with your hands producing all those wonderful things with love. That is a good life. 🙏

[@namafarm]

Blessed by God and you did the real work of humanity..the good life.

[@PatrickPoet]

Love you

[@chrisparsonson420]

At 73 just a baby. I'm 78. 5 years ago I became divorced and retired. I now own a small patch of heaven in the Free State of South Africa. I've planted fruit trees and am trying to grow vegetables that will see me through Climate Change, as I'm planning to live to 150. I started with a few township chickens that roam the village. Three are sitting on eggs. If I'm not outside then I'm looking at stuff like this inspirational Root and Refuge Lady.

[@RitaGehman]

I love that. "Fear always overplays its hand."

[@rosierose5229]

I have wanted to be a farmer for at least 20 years. I’m 48 and live on .33 of an acre. Due to my brother dying and being separated from my husband, I have decided that it’s time to pursue my dream...I’m not getting any younger! I built two raised beds and am considering a few chickens. I can see where it would be easy to go overboard if I had the land! I already know that when done right, I can grow a lot of food in my 20x50 garden. I hope incorporating raised beds and maybe expanding my garden area will grow enough for my son and I and that there will be plenty left to either sell or bless other people with. I just told someone today that if I have to be a farmer, living in town, then that’s what I’m going to do. I was in tears a few times while watching this...it’s exactly what my heart needed to hear today. Thank you. ❤️

[@kaylactattoos8086]

“Animals are the cheapest part about owning animals” you took the words right out of my mouth

[@Sky-Child]

Lol I said similar when my husband offered to buy me a horse. He has NO IDEA the cost to maintain them

[@courtneymessina1708]

"The point of homesteading is to get away from the pressure." Amen! I love this advice. I am the type to get carried away with things out of excitement too so I'm glad to hear your advice cause it is helping to ground me

[@Gigabitties]

Love it! I’m 13 and my family and I really want to move back out there to have our own homestead/farm. We live in a smaller sized town in southern Ontario Canada, and we grow our own food in our garden. Our yard is very small with our pool, fire pit and deck, so we don’t have much room to garden without getting rid of all of our grass. I love being around animals and used to work at a friends house just to enjoy the farming environment. All in all, we really want to start over in a new home away from society to enjoy our lives living the way we want. Thanks for this video it’s very inspiring

[@RootsandRefugeFarm]

You’ll do big things Abbi! Keep dreaming!

[@jenpitre9444]

I'm from southern Ontario too! We just added a few raised bed. Now we can learn how to grow on a small scale before our dream homestead!

[@BlackWhiteandTheGrays]

Looks like you're going to get your do over verrrryyyyy soon! 💕 Its been so fun to watch your journey almost from the get go, at least from that very first garden tour. Jess you have come so far and the Lord is going to take you even further. Keep pressing into Him, you are loved.

[@Wildevis]

I agree about community and I just fell into it by accident. I wanted to build raised beds (sounded cool and I did not have to crawl around on my knees) so I googled how to do it and landed up on Doug and Stacy's site and oh my, they opened my eyes for so many things and I gobbled it up. As I was searching for wood in my area, I landed on a site with reclaimed wood, very inexpensive but lovely wood and that was when another light went on. So the story continues. i am such a noobie gardener, I joined an amazing monthly garden club in my area, managed by a woman who does super sustainable organic gardening that just makes sense to me. Got some dud experiences with seeds (from mostly stupidity lol) but still have a nice little veggie garden and still learning :-D. So thanks to you and the few other homesteaders I follow, I am a work in progress and nothing's gonna break my stride :-D

[@russiagraham2933]

Hi Erika, I was wondering what website you used to buy reclaimed wood?

[@julieb7068]

Erika Cronje 👀

[@heathermeisner8896]

I started a small garden at my parents house last spring and absolutely loved it! Now that I’ve moved into a condo, all I have is a balcony! I’ve planted so many seeds and transplanted them to containers and then to outside only for them to catch a bit of wind and become right angles! So I’ve tried again, this time many many more seeds planted. I’m so so hoping they grow!

[@carilynmae]

In order to grow, change is required. In order to change, unfamiliar choices are required. In order to make unfamiliar choices, faith is required. In order to be faithful, repetition is required. Faith + Repetition = Victory Faith is being sure of what we hope for, and certain of what we do not see.

[@fulcupflower]

this was beautifully said.....

[@671raymondo]

Hebrews 11:1

[@deanlol]

replace faith with risk and you have my attention.

[@jennifermachiele]

Amen!

[@NotAnAngryLesbian]

Very, very cool!

[@ckinstle56]

I raised a garden and chickens for my family when the kids were young, and enjoyed everything about it. That said, what you said about fear hit a cord with me..part of the reason I gardened and raised chickens was to supplement our diet because raising kids is expensive :) I am now disabled and unable to to much but I still dream of being able to garden and have chickens again..Lord willing I will as I am only 66.

[@emilyhigginson3606]

Just starting our "farming" journey in our back yard... and this was the BEST thing I have heard in all my research. I have wanted to farm since I was a young woman and now that I am in my 40's with four children I am finally getting started. I am so excited and this was really great wisdom. Thank you, Jess!

[@HalleluYahfarm]

Right there with you! 35 and just getting started finally here too.

[@amandawhite6086]

I've always dreamed of living on a farm, but I've always lived in town. Right now my little family (me, hubby and 3 kids) is living with my dad on 1/3 acre. I finally made the decision to work with what I had! Did the research and now we have 7 chickens! Plan to plant a few vegetables this year too. Thanks for this video! It is difficult to avoid the "I want it all and I want it now" mentality, especially in our society today. Trying to remind myself to work with what I have and that it all takes time and hard work!

[@tamarabutterworth8300]

Jess, your last point about fear of bad things happening before I'm set up for homesteading true homesteading is definitely a problem for me. I live in a very small rental house and thankfully my landlord has let me build raises beds. This is my second season to garden and I bought a bunch of canning materials so that i could can what I'm growing. I have never canned before but i have now canned bread and butter pickles which are delicious. I just bought a pressure canner and will be canning tomatoes in the morning. I liked your advice about networking because I don't know anyone that gardens or cans or any of the other skills you need to homestead. I am scared that i won't learn everything i need to learn before I might really need the skills. I really appreciate you doing these videos as i learn a ton from you. You really do bless alot of people by sharing what you are doing. Sorry for the rambling but I just wanted you to know a little bit about the people you are reaching, teaching and blessing each time you do a video. Thank you so much!

[@brigittelm6054]

Tamara Butterworth We all feel that way❤💕 Just try and have fun and learn as you go. Each year and moment is different and a wonderful teacher.

[@RootsandRefugeFarm]

Thank you so so much ❤️❤️

[@Lydia1914]

Tamara Butterworth You have inspired me sweetie girl, I am checking out canning bread which I never heard of in my 65 years. Thanks so much!! Margie Guy. “Hanging with the Guys”

[@robinmurray5266]

#1 Ya don't need to pressure can 🍅. Hot water bath method is just fine. Pressure can for your low acid things like beans, squash and meats. This has always is just been a way of life for me....Amish country. If you need any advice (I'm not an expert) just ask.

[@saravanderhoek8469]

Wonderful words spoken! I liked the rambling ; )

[@SimplyBree1982]

I am new to your channel, and can not tell you just how much my husband and I love it! We have dreamed of a homestead for years and are working away at making our dreams a reality. Your passion for your family and lifestyle really help light a fire inside us! Thank you for your videos! ❤ Keep up the amazing work.

[@graceabounds2381]

Hi Jess, I this was done 2 years ago. I would love to see if you have done another video like this in 2020 and how has your experience changed the things you would do over. God Bless you and your beautiful family. You inspire me everyday to continue planting and being excited about future plans to grow plants and take care of our wonderful chickens.

[@dimik3855]

Thx for relaying your experience Jess. It highlights how a farmer has to know so many different trades to run a farm. You shouldn't have so many regrets. Mistakes are important learning experiences. You may already know this, but it's not necessarily a good idea to name your animals. You love them. They provide for you, and the most important thing is that you've given them a good life.

[@RobbieAndGaryGardeningEasy]

Like you, we love gardening and helping others get things done EASIER! 😊😊😊 Thanks! Robbie

[@robinsiciliano9084]

I’m not in the community whatsoever but do love to be outdoors and do a little gardening. I decided to watch your video and am deeply moved by your advice and how it applies to so much of life. Such a kind and generous soul you are and I thank you for sharing your experiences and wisdom. I needed to hear your message and am thankful to have found this video by accident.

[@Gigi-fv9ky]

I am glad you mentioned how it isnt good to get animals before people have the resources and knowlege to care for them and, even then, to only get the quantity that is sustainable. I have seem a lot of sad YT situations where what i am really seeing is animal cruelty either through ignorance or unconcern.

[@TheUncdrew]

You'd think this would go without saying. *sigh*

[@phyllisbruce213]

Drew Kimball you are obviously not the impulsive type. I have no more then one hour of sun anywhere in my yard and I’m trying to think of a way to appropriate my neighbor’s side yard for a garden!

[@earthchild21]

I mean this woman admitted to “BUTCHERING” her own chickens.... so

[@brendascally116]

Really appreciate your videos - communicating effectively while encouraging others is a gift. Thanks for using yours!

[@ashleygoodbread2319]

My whole family adores you and we have started watching your videos together. I didn't realize you only had 4 acres. I have three. I would LOVE to see a video on how you have laid out your homestead so far. How big is your raised bed area? Where are your chickens and goats, your house and greenhouse?

[@kellybesse4625]

Agreed!! I’d love to see a sketch or something from an overhead view.

[@undertheblood31]

Wow Jess "fear sometimes masquerade as wisdom" wise words , thanks Jess!

[@MelissaKNorris]

Thanks for sharing, even as a 5th generation homesteader we still make mistakes and so glad you're sharing there's no perfect way to do it and to get started where you are with plans to grow as you can.

[@urbanroost4899]

Thank you for sharing this! We live in the middle of the city of North Charleston in a total urban environment, but we've been doing a lot of what you're describing here. We have chickens, quail and rabbits...and we have a garden. We've learned to maximize our space and grow up, now just out. We've also learned to preserve our food in a number of ways. We are dreaming for the day when we can move out of the city...but, for now....we love watching your channel and learning! And we are definitely trying to turn our waiting into a classroom and learn as much as we can now. We are so very thankful for you guys!

[@Warrior-In-the-Garden]

"Fear will not sustain it"-so true. Your videos are always so though provoking for me. It is so easy to be focused on those further along in the journey that I often forget how much in my couple year that I have to share with those just starting. So grateful that you have taken the time to share...and 4 yrs is actually 20 when using chicken math.

[@teresitaromero4325]

Fear can masquerade as wisdom. Thank you!

[@WholesomeRoots]

I LOVE listening to you talk! It is so obvious that your passion is in all of the things you say! So how many years have you been gardening? Great video!

[@RootsandRefugeFarm]

In a small capacity, I started growing about 10 years ago. And of course, helped my mom all through my childhood. But for a long time, my harvests were handfuls. I grew a lot in containers before I moved here.

[@allisonlavine8178]

I love listening to Jess also! This was a great video and had me laughing out loud!!!

[@tammysarrazin7078]

i love listening to Jess she is a smart and eager woman and has a passion that is so addictive

[@spacestries]

I'm in love with you both!

[@carolynmyers9891]

Love this girl. She has encouraged me through these videos to finally have a decent garden. I’m in the garden every day.

[@candacegarcia8259]

THIS is so helpful! Just bought 12 acres and got 6 chickens and 6 ducks. Trying not to make the same mistake!

[@warrenbarron3087]

I have to say this with a Big HEART ❤. UR LIKE NO ONE I'VE EVER HAD THE PLEASURE OF LISTENING AND WATCHING!!! You have a beautiful way with words ❤. Ur a very calm person and I enjoy learning how to with my garden 😊. Thank you beautiful sunshine 🌞.. 🌞 💛 💖. Enjoy your day today and everyday beautiful 😍!!!!

[@nikkim.6428]

I bought the blueberry gold, blueberries, napa chardonnay, and the big sungold from wild boar farms. I don't have enough room to do them all at once but I definitely want to grow as much as I can in my apartment complex. I love gardening and the relationship I have felt has grown with God because I really feel like he's really close there..idk. But I love watching your life and am blessed to get to know you and your beautiful family. I wish I could have a chance to have such a great life and hope it's something God will give me one day too! 😄 you are an inspiration!

[@pj5306]

Beautiful woman, beautiful message, beautifully delivered and beautifully human.

[@livn8436]

This is the third time I have watched this video, and each time I find something new that I needed to hear. Thank you for this video, it is such a blessing!

[@thatonemom1415]

I couldn’t be happier that this video was recommended to me. My husband and I want a small, sustainable farm in the near future. The pressure to do everything perfectly has been so draining! Thank you for sharing your experiences, I can’t wait to binge watch the rest of your channel.

[@RootsandRefugeFarm]

Welcome! Glad you're here!

[@JohnMcKillop]

You are awesome young lady... I am so pleased I found (stumbled upon) you... If we don't do we don't learn...

[@craftysunshine6417]

I am currently in the process of buying a homestead and move out of the city. Thank you, this video is extremely helpful because honestly I am dying to have chickens lol and I can totally see myself making the same chicken mistake as you. Thank you, this gives me some good insight

[@peekabewm2432]

6 months ago the idea of starting a homestead became a very realistic goal, and I have been obsessing over it ever since. I have been watching videos, reading books, and I even have a few small raised beds in my backyard that I've been practicing in. However, I have chronic depression. There are some days that I struggle to even take care of my children. My motivation and energy are an exhausting roller coaster. I was wondering if you or anyone you know has these issues. It is my hope of hopes that maybe the sunshine and challenge of a small homestead could help break me of my fatigue, but I worry that the fear of not being able to care for it will keep me from achieving it.

[@big4metalbabe]

I suffer from major depression also. I have the same dream and fear. I just got chickens 17weeks ago. I have raised beds. I quess this is the networking Jes was speaking of. I'm here if you ever want to talk or text. [e-mail].

[@charissakerr1194]

Peeka Bewm I hope the sunshine and nature helps! I’ve battled with depression and anxiety all my life, so I totally relate and empathize with your struggle. Especially trying to be there for kids. You aren’t alone! 💕

[@BociCreativeLiving]

I have found gardening to be a form of therapy. It got me through the grief of my husband passing away suddenly in March. There is something about digging in the dirt that is very grounding. There is hope in gardening, that little seed you plant is going to become a huge plant with food you can eat, all because of the effort and love and care you put into it! Get your kids involved too!

[@brigittelm6054]

Peeka Bewm I had a simillar struggle. I started by - stopping drinking tap water and only filteted, reverse osmosis and eliminating the chemicals and flouride. Then started growing in pots and planters. Stopped eating prefab market foods that are chemicals and really not anything my body knew what to do with, ler alone use to nourish me. Now everything is turned around, no energy issues or depression struggle. Much love and blessings to you and your family.

[@jaclynkessler9596]

Peeka, The key is to keep things small for awhile. There are a lot of ways to automate things so upkeep isn't so consuming. Chickens are great because you can be as involved as you want to be. Gardening can be very relaxing and therapeutic as long as you keep things manageable. I'm not sure how old your kids are but there are a lot of chores on a homestead that are kid friendly. You would be surprised what those little hands can do if we let them. A homestead is different for everyone and the great thing is we can each make ours unique to our needs and abilities. Prayers to you😀

[@FosterFamilyFun]

“Binge rewatching” - so true to start where u are and small to learn. We own our land now & are building on it but we have been gardening at our house in our backyard & we have 6 chickens in our backyard also. We are learning a lot now on a small scale to prepare for our future homestead dream. 💚💚

[@lindawitherspoon446]

What a marvelous speech. Wow! You really have command of the language and you deliver your message in such an inspirational way. I love your vids and I have learned so much from you. Thanks.

[@heartsfiregarden6352]

This is such a fabulous list of things Jess. The chicken story would totally be something my very slightly younger self (like 4 years ago self) would do! I’m so thankful I’m managing to do some of this list. Like growing food in raised beds and hopefully having a few chickens where we’re at now, rather than waiting. And I’m thankful I stumbled across a southern tomato goddess teaching the world about her favorite veggie a few months ago! You’re a true inspiration!! 💜🍅

[@lbsmith83]

You are so calming to listen to and you make me not feel quite so stupid 🤪. I wish you would do a worship video day. I get so much listening to you. I know like you have extra time. Thanks for everything from NC

[@RootsandRefugeFarm]

I’m so glad to hear it Lynn!

[@robbisworldlywhims]

You're totally made for making these videos and helping us all out! You're an awesome teacher! :) thank you for your time! Beautiful garden!!! Very inspiring!!

[@rough-hewnhomestead4751]

First things first, your hair look great! That being said, we call out homestead "Rough-Hewn" because we do what you're suggesting...convert things for other uses....use inexpensive materials for projects....go small-er scale to begin with...cut back or wait on things, etc. There's a lot of wisdom in this video! God bless!

[@meg___a___meg]

Thanks for speaking candidly about your mistakes--it's so important for us to talk about the things that don't go as planned! Helps us to realize that were not inherently unfit to farm when we screw up but more likely are just like everyone else new to this farming thing. :)

[@wanda409]

The plenty of roosters story is so funny.....that's when we learned to butcher....LOL!

[@crystalm6706]

Hilarious!! I wanted to see if anyone laughed about that like me! lol

[@Trivit30]

O heck yeah I laughed pretty hard on that myself lol

[@americaneden3090]

Oh YES ditto there!

[@2200chuck]

And to think that people have laughed at me because all I want is 3 hens. There is only my wife and I left now - all the kids are gown, gone and raising their own families. So there's just Sue and me. We don't eat eggs every day so 3 good layers will provide more than enough and I can save the rest in lime-water for the winter months. They'll keep for 6-9 months that way in the pantry. Thank you Jessica for telling me that I'm not nuts for being willing to build for just 3. It's what I want. If that changes down the road I can always adapt. And woha! I saw you pick sunflowers to go feed the hens? I never thought about that! Awesome. We love them for their beauty, but to know I can feed them my flower heads? Very cool!

[@lynnb7511]

That is so funny, that would be my luck! 20 roosters! She is so inspiring!

[@sharonbyers3982]

Thank you, thank you for another beautiful video!! You are THE MOST charming homesteader I've found on KZbin and you really put yourself out there... wish I could loan you my eyes for a minute or so, so you could see just how precious you are from our point of view. (I'm a 74-year-old grandmother to 19 beautiful babies, so I'm allowed to talk to you like you're one of them, God Bless you richly!)

[@RootsandRefugeFarm]

Thank you so much Sharon ❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@mjguck5608]

I think homesteaders are largely composed of people who love to learn new things. At 53 I am still trying new things as my children roll their eyes. Stay strong! Jean

[@chomama1628]

MJ Guck never stop learning. It keeps the mind strong and happy.

[@mejoe943]

Jess, you are wise way beyond your years. Bless.

[@itsathriftylife1313]

I just found your channel and I have been watching/listening all day. Keep up the good work!

[@ouroldpathjourney]

I am so glad that I found this channel. I came here looking for advice on gardening and I've gotten so much more. You have a lot of wisdom, girl! Keep sharing it!!!

[@sarainsopo9743]

Gosh we love your videos! You’re such a good speaker. Sounds weird but this is your jam!

[@dennislujan5129]

Maine Garden Travels h

[@dennislujan5129]

I Yvonne

[@RootsandRefugeFarm]

Thank you so much!

[@renastreetman602]

Watch this video over again tonight. Seemed to need the topic. Amazing how wisdom never ages. Thank you.

[@nicolefairchild8197]

Thank you! I just love your videos. I’ve been dreaming of having a farm for over a decade and just this year I finally put in a garden at our house. Still in town but I came to the realization that I need to do what little I can where I’m at. It’s definitely an experiment having 3 black walnut trees in our back yard, I’m thinking raised beds next year and a shade cloth to protect the garden from the falling half eaten walnut husks. They literally burn holes through my plants. And I think I’ll take over some of the front yard next year too 😊 Again thank you for your insight and inspiration! Sending love from Kansas ❤️

[@mikem2049]

Yes I too had black walnut trees on 3 sides of my house. I had them cut down and hauled to way to the back of my property. Nightshade plant toast when planted near where black walnut was for next ~5 years. Sunflowers, beans, Corn, not peas!, and more can grow where black walnut has grown or is growing. I created a file on my computer on what plants can tolerate juglone. Here in TN

[@L_W748]

Currently living in my classroom and I am so thankful that I found your channel! We tried to move this year and our financing kept falling apart. It’s just not our season and not our time. So I am learning basic homesteading skills here in the suburbs instead and your channel helps a lot with that!

[@greenbank4800]

wonderful, so informative, agree on the networking. Very fortunate to have 1/2 acre in wonderful sub tropical Australia. We downsized from 5 acres in retirement and moved a small distance to better soil/climate. Rich soil, great rain and so MANY people with ideas and knowledge in our semi-rural area. We have a central food exchange, a shed on one of the properties, where we drop in excess for anyone where we swap for free, we post what we dropped off on the closed facebook group. It can be from poo bags, eggs to pumpkins, preserves, greens, honey ( I keep bees. ) The honour system is working because we are all accountable on social media and in real life. We all benefit We have organically evolved a rich, knowledgeable, bartering community. God Bless.

[@nicolebaker-wagner5891]

This sounds amazing!! We're urban with chickens, ducks, 2 mini pet pigs (rescued), 3 dogs, 3 garden areas and some indoor gardens. I love the idea of doing more trading... I belong to a clothing swap group, so maybe that's a way for me to start a share group!

[@reedhill9974]

Possibly the best video about "lessons learned" or "what I wish I knew" about homesteading.

[@shawknaw1]

please do a video on sunflowers tips and tricks!

[@VictoriaWoolfrey]

I love this video. Girl, you're humble, articulate, and helpful. Thank so much!

[@joleenahood603]

"....and that's when we learned to butcher chickens." 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣 Oh my gosh, I about fell out of my chair! I found that absolutely hilarious!!!

[@sewvintagebysunraedoll]

I could only imagine how annoying that would be😂

[@crystalm6706]

YES!!! That actually made me laugh out loud!!

[@Sammiejomitchell]

Im stunned. Hilarious? Having to kill animals that you've raised and cared for is not funny. It's heartbreaking. If you had to shoot your dog because her back was broken to put her out of her misery, would that be hilarious? Obviously, you've never had to cull your animals.

[@thehomeplatespecial597]

Kathi Gregory, really? It wasnt about laughing about that. The explanation and admission of learning through bad regretable mistakes as we all do in our lives was an acknowledgment of all our fowlability and shame over it. And people make jokes about slaughtering meat to eat anyway because it isnt that anyone relishes it unless they are insane. Most people eat meat and it is more honest to admit killing your food than to pretend it doesnt happen. If we all faced up to our pain about each thing we had to do we would be crumpled over and never get out of bed. Wrong? Probably. That is why many people ask for forgiveness from Higher Power. Or become vegan for thirteen years without knowing how to do it without harming health. If you say we should exhibit more direct compassion more often then okay but you cant presume to know who has been through what and insinuate that people like the mistakes that harm others just because they are mocking their own stupidity and the fact that realizing ones stupidity is also a learning and sharing event. I figure most balled their eyes out over the situations that they go through and afterwards learn forgiveness but not fully so laugh to keep from crying all over again or staying furious over it like most of us would at the mistakes we make if we didnt have coping mechanisms. And we try not to make the mistakes again. If this stuns you, dont ever go to a wake. Or a roast.

[@Sammiejomitchell]

The Home Plate Special , Im a bit confused. You said "it wasn't laughing about that". If you mean the video, I agree. Hard lessons shared to help others. I was responding to other people's comments with their laughing face emojis. It's never funny to have to slaughter your animals, whether it is for the cause to put meat on the table or because they are sick. I've had to slaughter a flock because they were sick. It was terrible. I just don't see anything funny about that.

[@joeschmidt7567]

Thank you Jess! Your open hearted, pragmatic views are thought provoking. Very much appreciated.

[@ElderandOakFarm]

I love how u said I'll never go overboard again- with chickens... lmao.

[@robertgoodhope7217]

Thank you for your willingness to share your regrets and your encouragement to experiment despite fear of failing.

[@jkhenderson1]

Jess, we only have a half acre. It's been our "experimental" property. Lol! We bought 4 chickens and have a 10 x 10 garden. We knew that we had to practice before jumping into a 15-20 acre tract! In the next couple of years we'll take the plunge and probably move to Missouri from Texas. The information you are giving is priceless!

[@karizma512]

I definitely needed to hear this today. Thanks to COVID I have made a lot of decisions from fear and not wisdom. I’ll try to check myself this week! Thank you for helping me turn my dream for delicious tomatoes into a reality and for sharing so freely with us

[@mardi61200]

It’s exactly what I am going through, I want so much to live this and leave the rat race so much, I just don’t know how to start

[@vden02]

Alfredo Diaz Sounds like your first step would be to commit to doing it. Maybe deciding to buy a small house with an acre to start. Wishing you the best!!

[@christinacallies4086]

Months ago I typed in homesteader and this video was the first one that led me to your channel and for the first time I’ve circled back to it. I have binged watched all your videos and have found your love of farming and Jesus exactly what I need to listen to right now. Thank you for sharing your gift of speaking, love for people and your love for gardening. I appreciate what you’re creating!

[@rfoehn5215]

It's good to be flexible regarding housing of livestock, but never scrimp on predator proofing! Otherwise you can lose everything you've worked so hard for...almost overnight!

[@joannwilliams4801]

I am watching this during the 2020 pandemic. I think you instinctively knew in 2018 that something like this was coming. God is good. Annnnd, I am adding to my comment...thank you for being so honest in a social media world of pretense. It was so helpful.

[@debbytomlinson9970]

Do you know why so many people "get" what you're saying? I believe the Father is calling His people back to the land. Truly. We moved 900 miles 5 months ago to do this very thing. To learn how to garden and how to take care of chickens. To sew and to can and to enjoy the Father's Creation. It took me 3 months to find steady work here. I am planning a spring garden... We didn't have the means this spring or summer and with fall coming, I've had to buy a woodstove and have to worry about having enough firewood. I was buying cereal and milk on credit cards because my grand daughters and son still needed to eat, job or no job. Now I am paying for that !! This time will be used to pay down the debt of moving and we will be able to move forward. Its Hard to be patient. By next year I hope to have 6 or 8 hens and ONE roo. I have to ease into it all and I am Not ready for butchering. I'd like two goaty girls for milk, but I refuse to have any farm animals until I am Sure we can be safe about it. Your wise words are encouraging.

[@RootsandRefugeFarm]

Debby Tomlinson I absolutely believe He is calling people to this life!!!

[@grannybee6805]

Hi Debby, I am so glad Jess said comments are so good for people to share, because that is how I learn, too. Not just from the vid, but from the comments under the vid. I really resonate with your comment that Father is calling out so many of us to do this. I am proud that you took the courage to do this. He does not call the equipped, but equips the called. I pray your efforts prosper and you come out of that debt soon.

[@tngardener231]

I agree, I was called out of the city 2 states away is where I ended up. I knew nothing about this type of life. Do you know my mom came here and said oh my, do you know that you were conceived on this road! lol What are the odds? So I guess I’m home.

[@deanlol]

Oh good grief! What kind of god gives you a child then takes them away at the age of 18! "Father" doesn't give a eff! He/it left it to us and moved on.

[@bevp1977]

I sincerely appreciate your personal perspective. I am moving in the next 2 years and basically starting my homesteading journey all over again and I agree with so much of what you have shared. This lifestyle is definitely for me and I am so glad for vlogs like yours that are so open and honest. Thanks for doing what you do!

[@angelaconley162]

Im 43 and have wanted to do what u do all my life have no clue how to start and fear of failing i guess is alot of what has stopped me.

[@KellyLoom1s]

Angela Conley unless you make mistakes, you’ll never learn. Fear of failure is what keeps most people from trying most things. Sure, things could go wrong. But what if things went right? Don’t be afraid to fail. Just don’t stop trying until you succeed 💜

[@angelaconley162]

@@KellyLoom1s thank you

[@KellyLoom1s]

Angela Conley I just made a horrible mess of trying to craft my own trellis. 😕 Honestly all I can do is laugh at my attempt and try again tomorrow. 💜 I wish you the best of luck!

[@melschmid8353]

I'm 42, just took a big loan to buy a piece of land; I never dared to do this in the past but once in a life time..

[@danielsmith6628]

Angela Conley if an opportunity came up, would you go for it???

[@FrugalFarmerChannel]

Thanks for sharing! Homesteading is hard but worth it at any scale. Thanks for sharing!

[@JaieElizabeth]

I think after this epidemic, LOTS of people will begin farming...myself included lol Keep the content cominggggg

[@MomandTell]

That's why I'm here! 😅🙋‍♀️ well sort of. We just bought our first home at the beginning of the year and I knew I'd want to start a garden and grow some food eventually but the pandemic definitely lit a fire under my butt.

[@JaieElizabeth]

@E Cox Great idea

[@faithreyes8797]

Thank you so much for posting this video. My husband and I have built a new house on 53 acres and my dream is to eventually be able to stay home and Homestead myself. We have cats, dogs, and now 11 chickens. I’m so happy and excited for this new adventure :-) u inspire me.

[@carlosspicywiener8761]

"That's when we learned how to butcher chickens." xD

[@carinjonck1526]

This is just absolutely beautiful... Girl you've got that wisdom.

[@gointothedogs2]

I couldnt help but laugh a lot. Straight run chickens...lol lots of roosters! We got 6 out of 24 and of course the free throw in was #7...lol. It was neat to have 5 because when they all took their turn Id listen for each one...and they all had a different sound...if I didnt hear one though Id have to go check on them....also was interesting how they warned of predators and the like so it was good to hear them...but I cant imagine the amount of roosters you had. And the goat...telling her to back up...lol yeah right!!! Mine would have been jumping on my back and making noises...lol Oh I miss all the chaos of all the animals...I still have plenty to keep me very busy but over the years the numbers have dwindled to just a few....and the dog rescue leftovers. I enjoy watching and hearing about the life that reminds me so much of myself. Its easy to get so busy having the life thats a dream and taking care of it, that you dont take the times to really drink it all in for so much work. So vacation was sitting in our own yard and doing things with the animals besides just working...we played with them and it was so much fun...baby goats are the best...and raising chickens and ducks and turkey was too. Having bunnies for pets were also very sweet. Among all the others...dogs, cats a ferret, homing pigeons and mini horses. It was a wonderful full adventure.

[@christinamcdonald2462]

This was just what my heart needed to hear! It is an answer to prayer. Thank You!

[@xdxdjoker13]

"20 of them were roosters. We had a big crowing issue. That's when we learned how to butcher." L.O.L.

[@christopherguia4492]

Yeah, that was good! lol

[@MrFmiller]

I learned early on that my homesteading dream was elusive. I dabbled with full encouragement from the family. They were very enthusiastic and helped set up the greenhouse. At first they were fully engaged but after the novelty wore off I found myself doing all the work. It wasn't surprising. I've always ended up being the food dude to all the animals. one of my (adult) sons had dreams of raising chickens. It was obvious he had not thought it through. He also wanted vegetable gardens. I had him view videos like this, not just glorified gloating. When he realized an oversize city lot is insufficient he began considering how to acquire additional land. I would be glad to help but I'm nearing retirement. I don't want to spend the rest of my life being someone else's food dude. I want my golden years vacations.

[@chankludo1]

6:23 "That's when we learned to butcher chickens" LMAO

[@papadoug2898]

your learning the right way dear lady!...children happily playing in the background, fresh country air , sunset in the background...”almost heaven, mountain Momma take me home...thanks for the wisdom words!

[@brigittelm6054]

Second time watcjing this... haha JESS PUT THOSE SHEARS DOWN...you talk with your hands like I do...lol Do No poke or stab yourself.."Step 1 in Homesteading"

[@RootsandRefugeFarm]

Hahahaha I know it drove me crazy while I edited

[@tater357]

I totally needed to watch this video today. I found out several things watching it. For #1, we are right on par with your advice about starting with Chickens. We don't have a large scale, but a flock of 4 girls, but adding 2 more this year after the past two years of having them. #2 We built our raised beds a couple at a time and now have a total of 8 raised beds in our yard that produces a LOT of food for us thru the summer months the first couple years. But lately, we have stretched out into the winter months with cool weather crops and have found we can grow crops in our garden of some different varieties through out the entire year. #3 WE are that neighbor that others can come to and ask about Garden stuff, or Chicken stuff in our neighborhood. And WE share a LOT of information with most anybody that comes by. We've never pushed anybody out of our yard because they were asking too many questions. The way we feel about it, the more folks in our community with like minds, the better off our community will be if we ALL are doing the same thing as far as growing our own food or raising our own chickens or other livestock. #4 We are actually reaching out to our community by raising good healthy plants for gardening and giving our community a great deal that NO Big Box Store can give in todays Market. The Prices at the local box store for tomatoes and pepper plants is insane. $5 for a single plant. PLUS, most of the plants at these big box store may look healthy, until you look at the root structure. Most are root bound. I personally have found that the less restricted the tomato roots are in a collapsed space, the healthier the plant is when it's planted in your garden beds. Roots are like people, don't CROWD them. #5 We are not currently doing KZbin videos because I am NOT Camera oriented. I don't speak well in front of a camera, because few folks can get past my harsh Southern Accent. It's what I was born with and taught and nothing has changed that in my 50+ years, nor would I want anything to. I may sound like an uneducated hick, but until you give me an opportunity and try to understand what I am saying, you are going to keep that assumption. And that's fine, your loss. I hope you consider this message on your time away break that I saw you post not long ago, and I hope you come back refreshed and full of passion for the thing that you obviously love doing so much, which is helping folks. You seem to me like the type person that enjoys it so much, and just got your hands full of so many things happening all at once. That maybe a break is just the thing you need. Just know, you're NOT alone. WE as the community will be here when you return. Take care, May God Bless.

[@mickibabe5495]

I just recently gained such a deep desire to homestead, I’m doing my research on everything and I just so happen to play your video and you’ve really opened my eyes to what I really need to start doing. I’ve been doing nothing but pinning things on Pinterest, that can help me “after I buy my land”..... but realistically, I’ll never have “my land” until I start attempting. You’re right, I don’t need to wait... I just asked my husband if we could start gathering bunny food and start building their little house this year so we can have bunnies in 2-3 years and he said yes. I need to start a small garden!! 😂 I’m pumped and motivate!!!!!!

[@elkewheeler]

"fear will never lead you to good decisions" WOW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! This is a truth bomb that actually made me tremble. Just WOW!!!

[@sandywall1542]

You are fantastic. Don't change a thing about your Video's Love love love them.

[@wenonasiggelkow9306]

You put your heart and soul into the stories and experiences you share. I truly look forward to watching your videos.

[@Martascraftsandmore]

I love how real you are and how down to earth you are I love this video

[@bluegirl6157]

You have a good head on your shoulders, young lady! Thank you for sharing your experiences.