our farm's story: frugality, perseverance, and love

[@herbhouston5378]

Very well said!!! Some people never learn that "stuff" doesn't matter!!! People matter... Relationships matter!!! Warm, satisfying memories matter!!! The kind of memories that put a smile on your face... when your head hits the pillow at night... and brings a warm peace to your heart... that you just can't explain... Thank you for posting this... and I pray that it becomes so well known... that it covers our country... Everybody needs to see this... at least once...

[@JustaFewAcresFarm]

I hope for the same Herb! But I'm afraid that most of America probably doesn't agree with me. It's hard for folks to ignore the billions of dollars that are spent on advertising, telling people that if they don't live a certain way then they are a failure.

[@willymack5196]

Absolutely right as I said in my remarks I've worked in restaurants all my life because it's what I love to do. It never paid much but I don't worry about the money I've always made enough to keep a roof over my head and to meet my needs that's all I need. I am 61 years old and I still love to go to work doing the same thing that I have always done.

[@katieandkevinsears7724]

@@willymack5196 If you love your job, you're already retired.

[@willymack5196]

@@katieandkevinsears7724 well right now I'm in semi-retirement because I had some heart surgery done but I cannot wait to get back to work and I will go back to the sitting at home is too boring.

[@cliff-mines]

Well said, both you and Pete.

[@missioncreekfarm7715]

As of 3 days ago, I am officially mortgage and debt free. It took almost 10 years, but the sense of security and freedom is amazing. I was also unemployed for about 3 of those years, and all I can say is God is good!

[@scrivyscriv]

2:52 is spot on. "When you buy that thing that you think will make you happy, you just want the next thing, because the gratification is short-lived..." Excellent wisdom in that statement!

[@rebeccagrimsley7260]

As a old farmer I must say you have explained the ideology of a farmer perfectly. Thank You

[@jamesrobinson9304]

Hi Pete, I just watched this video for the second time. I did so because I truly believe that you have found the real method to lifelong happiness. I am now 79, and retired. Along the way I made so unfortunate mistakes, but for the most part I spent the second half of my working life following your presented philosophy. I also know that you and Hillary made the right decisions to marry each other, which is where I made mistakes in the past, but now have been married to my present wife for 30 years. What has made it a successful marriage was not what I had sought in my previous marriage (2) but the same core values that we share . I would also comment that I approve that you don't feature your children in your videos, but I am sure that they are absorbing your and Hillary's values and will add to the ongoing moral strength of our future. Thanks for sharing, not only your activities, but also your feelings and values.

[@theresamcpherson7352]

"Wise life lessons" Thanks for telling your story Pete.

[@donluz1522]

Cool story. That’s where I’m at with my life. I want to farm for myself and my family. I’m tired of the rat race

[@stubbi]

Hey Pete - what you said from 8:00 to 8:20 is exactly how I feel right now. I'm currently trapped in a job I'm good at - but I absolutely hate it. Its a 9-to-5 office job thats dreary with unmotivated colleagues and overzealous bosses.... Its really draining. I grew up on the full countryside, animals and tractors all around - ands I do have a dream: I want a small farm similar to yours in my hometown. There are several farms that will eventually be up for sale in a couple of years, so all I'm doing right now is preparing myself. Saving money every months, calculating future expenses, educating myself and reading up about farming (books and magazines). I know there's still a very, very long way ahead of me, but I'm sure: There will be a point where I'll be able to pursue my dream in a financial stable way. It only needs time.

[@cegesl4521]

The story of my life l prayer 🙏🏿 that you get a good person to share your life with because it’s not for everyone. I did it but l have come to know it’s hard to get a person to share it

[@timnguyen604]

so time to save money and plan for your dream :D

[@stubbi]

@@timnguyen604 Nah, the amount of money you'd need in Europe to start a farm is way above 6 figures.

[@bobkyllo578]

I started farming when I was 24 years old. I looked around for my first tractor, did my homework on the positives and negatives of the different brands. I ended up buying a 2-70 white and like you it needed some work so I got it cheaper then if it was good. I got tons of slack from people but I fixed it and now it's a good tractor. That fall i found a 2-135 white and the motor was stuck. Again I got it cheaper and fixed it up. Again I was given a lot of grief over it. Two things this has done for me, one it has brought a lot of self value. I know how to fix it, I can fix it when needed, and it also raised my net worth. When I bought my digger I ended up buying a 33 for digger. There was no way I could pull it but I got it fairly cheap. I brought it home and made it work. Again I was given a lot of grief. But I never listened to those that laughed because at the end of the day I had equipment that I had a hand in fixing, I had pride in it

[@ryanboldt7751]

so true... so true! Having no debt is freedom, having debt and stuff is bondage

[@gregorygray7633]

Amen. True wealth has nothing to do with money, but FREEDOM! We live our vision story everyday because we intentionally built a life of freedom. Living our purpose! Great word!

[@442olds7]

Spot on. Most people are indeed "trapped" into a life style they think they want but in the end , they are never happy no matter how much they "spend" . Good stuff!

[@grantguy8933]

You are an able and determined man. Way to go.

[@richarddemoss5568]

Verry well said I learned the hard way an the school of hard knocks still linger but too old to do over LISTEN TO THIS MAN HE IS ON TRACK

[@franksimpson5020]

You hit the nail on the head. I’m 72 wished I knew you years ago. I don’t listen to the news either. You give out a lot of good information. Love watching you. Keep it up be safe.!!!

[@mcchupka9718]

Thanks for reminding us that, “Preserving history is worthwhile and has meaning!” & “Don’t simply think of the world in economic terms.” Loaded with a ton of great tips and reminders!

[@leeczaplinski9781]

Your video is inspiring and reflects the spirit of what America used to be...pride, family values, self sufficiency, frugality and commitment .We've all been duped the media, lied to by politicians, offered fast credit, and succumbed to marketing ploys that make our kids (and ourselves) feel like second class citizens unless we sport the latest fashions, drive the sexiest cars, live the fastest life. Drugs exist to make us feel good when faced with the disappointment and disillusion. What a terrible web we've weaved for ourselves and future generations.

[@yoyoma27payer]

Wow every high school in America should have this played to the senior class absolutely amazing!!!👍👍😊

[@searlearnold2867]

So well said Pete!! Living in a house with a mortgage really means the bank lets you sleep there as long as you make payments. New tractors are never really owned, the manufacturer lets you pay for it, drive it and pay them to fix it because they integrate computers in it that have to be hacked to be fixed. Life is not a complicated venture in and of itself- it only becomes that way when we over drive our own headlights chasing someone else's dream of what they believe our lives should be.

[@dennisg.wallace5445]

I live in Winchester Ky and feel like I've known you my entire life. What a wonder man you are and a great family man. Please consider running for President .

[@davidbarnes7064]

I always enjoy your videos. They're very informative. You put a lot of thought into what you say. I worked like a dog at a job I loved, maintenance in a private school. Was very careful with my money. That enabled me to buy 65 acres and to build two small herds of cattle. This is pretty much a one man show that enables my kids and grandkids to see and talk about the rural life, and have free access to fresh eggs and some of the best tasting beef around. I also sell hanging beef. At these times it is difficult to schedule locker appointments because most lockers in Northern Iowa are booked through 2021! But I thank God daily for this life. After working 51 years for my employer, I retired two years ago. Now the farm is MY time!

[@bradenknight492]

I had a feeling when I started following you that you were a Dave Ramsey man as well, love to hear that you have done exactly what my fiance (wife after this weekend) and I intend to do in the next 10-15 years. Debt free farming is like an oxymoron in the mainstream but love hearing about other people who have done it the right way. "Discipline seems unpleasant at the time but yields the harvest of righteousness"

[@austinpresley6187]

I may be 10 months late, but congratulations to you and your young wife!

[@Marialyse]

No truer words were ever spoken. Well done.

[@JP-bv7bf]

Well said, my husband and I did not believe in debt, we paid off our bills as they came in. Paid off our mortgage in 17 years and some of the interest during the time interest was 11-17% Always paid cash for our cars. Good for you for being so wise with what God has blessed you with. Loving your show and watching from BC Canada 🇨🇦

[@stephenbulingame8631]

My family has operated our 350 acre farm in Northeastern Connecticut since 1818. Being in the same place has allowed us to accumulate so much family interest and history. one bedroom in the attic is still called the Charlie Whitehouse bedroom. Charlie was an itinerant tinker who stayed there when he came to the farm to fix pots and pans. Don't know when that was or where he came from. Like yourself it has become so much more than a house, its a story, a tradition. Love your story and channel.

[@jimmiller6364]

Extremely well said Pete. Im 52 and my wife and I are completely debt free and own a 57 acre Dexter Farm. I still work outside the farm but know I can leave and farm full time whenever I choose. I like nice things but I like having no debts a whole lot better. You have what really makes you happy in life figured out Pete. The more stuff you have the more stuff you have to take care of and worry about. Being a slave to things is a vicious cycle. Nothing wrong with buying things as long as you dont go in long term debt to get it. Thanks Pete you really give great advice on all your videos.

[@Andyrob323]

You’re a great guy, Pete. Thank you for sharing your farm and life with us. My wife and I are starting a small farm, mostly using ground the neighbors have offered us to use. Your videos are clear, entertaining, and something we look forward to. This one definitely lived up to all of those things and more. In times like these it’s important to find people who also see the value in the things that are really important

[@judyvuicich1027]

Recently I had a bowel infarction and almost died. When I got out of the hospital, I saw one of your videos. That led to another about the farmer's market, and on and on. I am 67, and I will never own a farm or raise chickens, rebuild a house, etc. But I have found that your philosophy of love, kindness, and frugality really speaks to me. I watch your videos for something other than building a business! Please don't stop. I've referred them to my granddaughter who also finds solace in the relationship you and Hillary have with the land. It is such a beautiful, encouraging life, and the peace you spread has helped calm my mind.

[@daviddjerassi]

This video should be shown in every school through my country ,i lived my life very much as you advocate with a very happy end result ,thank you for yet another great video.

[@elonmua8795]

Wow all you said is makes sense after 20 years of plan me 42 years old guy and my wife 37 RN start farming ,thank you sir.

[@tomj528]

There's a lot of wisdom here, wisdom that I can back up 100%. Everything from living frugally/efficiently to self sufficiency and finding the best balance of profit to volume and the importance of forging your own path. I can write pages and pages but it's already been so elegantly stated here in this video. I would argue with one point however and that's that the American dream is alive and well in it's original form, not the bastardized version that it's been twisted into. A small home, single modestly price vehicle, every meal cooked at home from scratch and the chance for your children to get an education to better themselves. All still affordable for anyone that works full time at a halfway decent job.

[@2001joefox]

What a great video!! My wife and I have been living debt free for 3 years now. It is SO freeing and satisfying. Thank you for your example.

[@utot0210]

YOU GOT IT PETE, WAY TO GO, THIS WORLD WOULD BE BETTER IF WE HAVE MORE PEOPLE LIKE YOU

[@buysmall-sailbig6365]

Thanks Pete! Great video! I’m a architect too, been running a sole proprietor residential firm since 1997 but I long to get on a farm/ranch! Been reading and watching farm information for over ten years now. It’s hard to make the move when your wife has a great job she loves. At 55 it’s seem crazy to decide to move to a farm/ranch to raise cattle, building it up from from raw land because of all the hard work involved. But that is what makes it so much worth while! I too designed and built our home... saved a ton of money and it was a great learning experience I would not trade in the world. Now that our children are in college and high school I’d like them to be there to be apart of the family farm/ranch being built. I also tend to do my own work before paying someone to do what I can do for myself... that’s one of the basics of farming/ranching I see! Thanks again.... you are making me realize it’s never too late!

[@johnhirsch9]

This is how I run my farm and I scratch my head when I see other farmers are going out of business and drowning in debt. Its a different numbers game than most other industries. Your shiny equipment doesn't make as much on a farm as it does on a construction site and as a business owner this should be understood. I have one new JD 4066m to count on, but all of my other equipment I own outright and none of it is much newer than the 50's-70's. We grow about 20 acres of certified organic produce for grocery stores, wholesale and farmers market. Great channel, I love hearing how similar minded we are.

[@Weldernils]

Being able to say all those meaningful things in your own words only goes to show that you can walk the walk as well. You have my respect

[@JustaFewAcresFarm]

Thanks Nils!

[@ronbozich9757]

The fullness in life comes from knowing the truth about who we are, why we are here and where we are going. Life is not just a journey between birth and death. Shalom!

[@martintopp1399]

HI there Pete. You have a great balance between the two and know why you are doing what you are doing. I think that is a very important place to be. If we know what we are doing; that is good, but to know why we are doing it is far better. In that position, you can stand alone and not get swept away by the tide of a political standpoint, a popular opinion,, a cultural condition or a belief system that you don't agree with or align to. I personally have a hard time not envying what you have accomplished. I am so glad you restored your family home. To me, that act resurrected who you really were and was the bedding ground for your family and farms success as financially illogical as that may sound!

[@crazycoyote1738]

Thank you Pete!! Now I’m selling my treadmill.. almost for sure, so I can buy an elliptical.. 😎 We appreciate your wise words, couldn’t say it better.

[@Kristenm28]

This is a great channel, so glad I found it!

[@juliannedispain1637]

This has to be one of the BEST videos I have ever seen.

[@DrtERotinBasstrd]

I love hearing your point of view. Pearls of Wisdom. Thank you

[@waltermaki3794]

Without doubt the best video u have made....if more people lived like u and ur family this world would be a lot better place. We grew up dirt poor and early on i learned the value of the buck along with some other values u spoke of. Now a lot of folks live pay cheque to pay cheque but have a load of things that they think are making them happy but really make them miserable because in reality they can.t afford them and in cases have to decide between paying the rent or feeding their families...All u have to do is look at how many homeless people there are. I know there are a lot of other facters but living beyond ur means to me is the biggest one. Thanks and keep em coming Pete

[@seagull5550]

Very few people, including myself, have your kind of courage and energy.

[@simr7856]

Pete is absolutely right. when i graduated from HS in 83. i entered into the Home Construction industry. Licensed Carpenter since the age of 20. NEVER once attended college, or ever owning a Credit Card. i also enjoyed a debt free life. built my own company in 2000, then in 2018 sold that company to my guys, who are still going strong in 2020. i set a limit, giving myself only 20 years in the home building industry..once it hit that mark i would retire. Carpentry is all ive ever done my whole life, and managed to save a Hella lot of money that i am enjoying living on now days. My mind, body and soul earned every dime of that..and there is NO WAY i would ever give that away or squander it. 3 things worked in my favor in my 53 yrs. 1. i've been retired since i was 50 (im 53 ) 2. i never had to work myself to death and not get to enjoy life. 3. working only one job my entire life. like Pete says you triple up the payments to pay things off early.. or just blow your money on worthless shit the rest of your days.

[@lourdesaguirre4882]

Thank you for sharing such a beautiful story of your family history. trace back so many details. Your children will appreciate it one day.

[@dennisgallagher1686]

You are a bright well spoken man my grandfather said dont be a man wasting life to get the money because in the end you will the money trying to get life i love your small well run farm

[@bradwilliamson9172]

All of your points are very well made, I hope that young people that watch your channel take your comments to heart! Thanks

[@bslturtle]

Geeze, THANK YOU FOR THIS EPISODE! Your ethics are for me to strive towards

[@daveamz]

Great video, Pete! You are living what John Ruskin once wrote: “There is no wealth but life. Life, including all its powers of love, of joy, and of admiration. That country is the richest which nourishes the greatest numbers of noble and happy human beings; that man is richest, who, having perfected the functions of his own life to the utmost, has also the widest helpful influence, both personal, and by means of his possessions, over the lives of others.” ― John Ruskin, Unto This Last

[@sandrasprinkle9540]

Pete, very well said!! Life is much better if we seek the real value in it! "Things" do nothing but cause us to end up with a lot of yard sale items!!!! You both have done beautifully with your lives!!!

[@bobkids009]

Every video that comes out from Pete is a piece of Valuable good Advice to mankind.......God Blessed you both.....!

[@robertbrackett6569]

Keep doing what you do ,it's a shame most folks are not self sufficient.

[@goatgate3815]

Sir, you have given an everlasting gift of wise choices to all generation. Thank you.

[@calendarbumb4037]

Pete… This was not boring or dry. I enjoyed listening to all of it. 😊

[@brycewiborg8095]

Respect your lifestyle choices. Once again we see eye to eye. Thanks for posting Pete.

[@almontepaolilli7531]

Great way to run your life. In time, your children will adopt those same principles. Great video.

[@JL-xn3zy]

Pete - You are a talented and wise man. May God bless you and your family.

[@raymondgarden6521]

Well said Pete. Most of the "stuff" we think we want adds no value at alll to our lives. Watched most of your videos and have encouraged others to do the same.

[@LeMecanoDuDimanche]

You are SO right ! doing meaningfull things is much more important than sole profit

[@dustoff1472]

We just purchased family farm land that came up for sale. Unfortunately I had to finance most of it. You have a great attitude towards being frugal. I get more out of buying used equipment and in some cases rebuilding/fixing it. I just can’t put in words how being on the land makes me feel. I will be following and learning. Tks for sharing.

[@annbarron5874]

Such wisdom you have imparted today. Thank you.

[@forrestmagee5397]

Thanks for the advice Pete. 26 years old living on my family farm in KY. Just left my job I hated to try something new and to free me up on the farm. Best decision I have made to date. my wife and I watch your videos daily, thanks again

[@davidsmith-hb1jx]

100 percent rock solid advice. Your love of family, tradition, and history is admirable.

[@maureensurdez7841]

Pete you're Place looks so well maintained... like a park right now beautiful. I agree with you about self-😢sufficiency. Lots of people don't value it or don't even understand it. I can also see that you look about 10 years Younger . Farming is agreeing with you . Hard work ,good food you're slimming too I notice . Yyou look great ; you seem happy!🎉

[@judyabernathy80]

Truer words were never spoken ❣️🙏🏼♥️🙏🏼❣️

[@catonmclear2500]

Learning from a farmer is valuable... Learning from a farmer like Pete...Priceless! Thanks Pete!!

[@thomasreto2997]

Wow! That speech was.....priceless. Listening to you talk, I realize you two sound like my wife and I. It’s funny because all the people I work with jab me a little about how “cheap” I am....but at the same time, I feel greatful in investing money in property rather than frivolous things. A few more years and we are starting a very small 4 acre farm on our property in Hawaii 😃🌈🤙

[@AFFarms444]

Hi Pete! Well darn, inspirational Tuesday! Agreed 100%

[@Brad1237202]

Great video Pete! I get an education from each and every one of your videos!

[@ihus9950]

Alot of Truth and meaning in what your saying. I hope there is alot of younger people out there watching this video and learn alot from it Thanks for sharing Bud👍

[@stanleyschafer4232]

Thank you Pete and Hillary for your thoughtful insights. The world would be a more interesting place by following your examples.

[@karengates8508]

Couldn’t have stated anything you said Pete, any better! Wonderful video as always. Thank you so much for taking time out of your busy schedule, to create content that we all can learn from.

[@larrymoore6640]

There are certain things in life that you really can't put a monetary valve on. Happiness, personal accomplishment and the true mate in your life are just a few. Being debt free and remaining in that area is a great accomplishment.

[@christopherscranton7995]

Love the video. Debt free is freedom from the machine. Thanks Pete, Godspeed

[@bandkadams8897]

You have a great perspective. Could not agree more. Living debt free is so meaningful. Thank you.

[@geebix]

Hi Pete from the UK, the world would be a far better place if there were a few more folk had a similar philosophy to yours, love the videos keep up the good work.

[@1stlast290]

Less stuff. More purpose. More contentment. More peace. More joy.

[@ElementalDexters]

Amazing video. By 12 min in, my heart was bursting w/ recognition, and my eyes were watering. Common sense GALORE❣️

[@__S__B__]

Pete, I’m catching up on your videos! Great content! You and Hillary made the sacrifices! You broke the habits! You cut out the people! Both of you knew what you wanted to become for the rest of your life! Your life lessons are right on🎯! The big one is don’t get on the “consumer treadmill!” Thanks Pete!

[@metzfarm6494]

Wow! Just wow! Excellent points. Self reliance is something that we all should learn and keep in mind that patience is a virtue. We live in a world now where we have to have things right now and Instant gratification seems to be the norm nowadays. I truly believe that is the reason why there is so much debt. I like what you said about people needing to stop outsourcing their work. There is nothing more gratifying than doing a job yourself just to prove to yourself that you CAN do it. The savings is an added bonus.

[@kennicholls9787]

Pete you make it sound so simple, but your takee on life is so true. unfortuneanatley many people find it out to late. you are truly inspirational.

[@Arealeader]

truer words have never been spoken.

[@amjadhani8929]

I agree with every word, I wish I too will have a choice one day!

[@IowaPerformanceSaws]

I find it intriguing that this video is the one KZbin suggested for me today from your series given where I'm at and the choices I'm facing. You're a very bright and down to earth guy, Pete.

[@hossblake]

My grandpa had a similar mindset. He grew up during the depression and he never went into debt. He still farmed with horses whenever he could all the way into the 80s just because he loved it. My uncle farmed the same way. Looking back the only bad side was they tended to be glass half empty types. They pushed me away from agriculture because it was hard work with no money. They said go to college and get a good job. Fifteen years later, I'm at a crossroads and I'm taking the plunge into agriculture. It's a pay cut and there's a lot of uncertainty but I've never been so excited! You and a few others have inspired me to take the plunge and carry on the family tradition in my own way.

[@stayinggolden2665]

This is exactly what I'm doing. Been at it for six years now. Got everything set except the house. Bought land cash, septic, foundation, storage shed built, and solar all ready. If all goes as planned I'll build the house next spring with no burdensome mortgage from a crooked financial institution! You've done it the right way for sure!

[@womaningreen5617]

Amen! I feel like I just heard a great sermon, and I'm not a church person! I only wish I understood the fallacy of the "American Dream" earlier in life, and I am happy for you that you did. Keep doing what you're doing, love your videos!

[@daleyadventures3896]

Spot on! My wife and I are jumping off the treadmill as we speak. Encouraging to see this!

[@JustaFewAcresFarm]

Good for you, and best of luck!!

[@cstevenett2779]

Good morning! I just recently came across your page and find your content quite enjoyable!! This video in particular is so, so true......and well spoken! This is how I try to work around our farm here in central Alberta. My wife and I have a relatively small (160 acres) that we manage in much the same manner as you. Always doing as much as possible or manageable! So much more gratifying to enjoy the fruits of your own labour........ It is refreshing in this day and age to hear of like minded people outside our community, which still supports quite a large number of smaller farms. Too bad more people on this planet don't see that life is more about quality than quantity!! Please keep up the most interesting content!! Craig, Leslieville, Alberta, Canada.

[@UncleJams]

You tell your stories well because you live it.

[@CritterTenzin]

Love this video. A while ago I decided to become a minimalist. I couldn't be more happy. It is also so nice to not feel the need to needing to buy new stuff. I am happy with what I have, and I even find more and more stuff in my house I don't use and that I can get rid off or try to sell on a 2nd hand website. We really don't need it all.

[@stime6472]

Very well said. My wife and I do all the same things. We are 100% debt free except for the house witch we planned to pay off in 10 years but it looks like that will be more like 9 at this point. We buy all are vehicles with cash. Each time buying a better car. We have our own manufacturing business that we started with no money in a basement of a rented house and has supported us since 2006. You are right slow and steady wins the race.

[@peggydove8756]

SO TRUE! Stuff does not make you happy!! Family and good friends, your faith in God is what makes me happy! You did very well and be proud of yourself!

[@officialweldingfarmingarch2041]

This guy is always so happy/content, really makes the videos enjoyable.

[@davidwalker567]

That's a very good lesson in life I envy you

[@jjr6929]

Watched this video again....yup, its spot on! Thanks Pete!

[@gloriaoscar5505]

Loved the video. What a legacy you will leave to your children and to us on the videos. I think like you do about most people not being happy and not enjoying their jobs. So good that you and your wife knew how important it was to be frugal and the freedom and peace no debt brings. God Bless.

[@TheGardenerNorth]

Well if this wasn't timing! My wife and I just got back from viewing rural properties for two days. Love your honesty and candid thoughts. Its really helping me focus on the realities of rural/farm living.

[@champagnjethersiahdduvenag6078]

My dad started out with International tractors. He lived fixing them. My husband and I are like you guys.