Life & cabin update (what's next)

[@MaxandOccy]

What do with think team? What are we most excited to see on the property in 2024? 💛

[@jansmith3158]

Hello Max, look into an all meat diet for Occy. This is a healing diet that is helping older dogs to feel like pups again. A meat cooked meat diet has a ton of good fat, vitamins & minerals that humans & pets need. You can cook the meat, then make small daily batch size & freeze. Then the night before take out and put in the frig to defrost for the next day. Dog can/bag food is literally poiosoning our pets. Bag/can pet food is full of sugar & refined carbs that make pets sick & overweight causing a early death. This works Max. sea "how much sugar is in dog food?' vds = shocking about Max. Seriously look into this. You dont want to feed Occy raw meat = has bad bacteria/virus/parasites - that can be passed on to you from occy from raw meat. For lawn cutting think about getting a couple of sheep. 🐑🐏 ps for gardening see channel Garden Answers (USA channel). She will inspire you.

[@bhfire8023]

I must excited to see you and Occy happy and content on your property and in your cabin. Life has turns left right up down and as we go down the road of life sometimes there’s a wrong turn but usually we get back on the right path. And you’re there just don’t let your mind get you to overthink everything and make it difficult for yourself to dig out of a Hole.

[@windsongdesigns6655]

You should ask your friends the "Vanwives" for gardening advice. Their gardens are great. For your fire area, maybe build a bench around the fire with stones from your property. It would take some work, but it would be beautiful.

[@rixanneh18]

Greenhouse Max! birds, insects, will love everything you plant! But if you would like to have any of it, greenhouse is the way to go. Plus you have friends who have done them! :) Lots of advice for you. "Fun" project. It will also help you decide where to best put it, which probably isn't in the way of your view. LOVE Oc's new look! and the drill toy xo Welcome back, you've been missed!

[@Cherie5353]

The gardening projects. I can’t wait to see what you do. ❤ (Raised beds)

[@TB-ky7de]

I was so glad to see Eamon and Bec's little one at the beginning! I have been silently thoughtful of them and seeing that their little bubba is looking well makes me very happy!

[@babsinoz]

So have I..just hoping Eamon and Bec are also okay

[@lynkirby7008]

But where is Bec

[@merciakantor495]

I was going to post the exact same comment, was concerned for them.

[@peachygal4153]

@@lynkirby7008 Their British vanlife friends also visited and posted pics and she was in them. So was Eamon's brother and father.

[@kellybenhart3244]

Where? Been praying for them..

[@barbarar.7833]

SO GLAD the mullet is gone and I love Occy's new hair cut, he looks younger! The interior of your home is looking amazing. What a change from when you moved in.

[@amandamurphy5217]

Yes horray the mullet is gone!!!

[@MaxandOccy]

Haha RIP mullet

[@Shibalvr]

Hair hazards from hanging with Eamon! 😂😂❤❤ someone take away his scissors….glad to see his solidarity with Bec though hair wise etc. 😊😊

[@jackyjre1192]

Seeing Occy so happy and healthy warms my heart. And glad to see you look so well too😊 (and rid of the mullet!)

[@MaxandOccy]

Ha thank you! 💛

[@Kim-up5zw]

@@MaxandOccy may I suggest you put some runners down the hallway , better for Occy's back legs, slippery wooden floors are bad for their legs! I'm sure you can pick up some second hand runners.

[@Janet.D.C.]

Love seeing Occy doing so well! ❤ Quick garden note, you might consider getting to know a permaculture person near you. My permaculture teacher did an experiment on his farm. He set some bales of hay on his heavy clay soil over the fall and winter. He removed the bales in the spring, and was able to insert his arm down into the soil up to his armpit! He let the biological action between bail and earth do the “digging” for him. Work smarter, not harder! If a permaculture teacher has a class coming up, you might be able to have them come and do some work on your property as a class project. Perhaps they would start a food forest for you. 👍🏻

[@MaxandOccy]

Great advice thanks Janet! 💛

[@lorrainenugent2203]

There are some active permaculture communities in the Alstoneville and Ballina areas.

[@paulinehiggins8239]

@@MaxandOccy. Max check on white ants re that idea, but sounds good.

[@valorabock6325]

Yes 😊

[@MadddyDawn]

My fur baby just turned 14. He’s also been on diet and lost the 5 pounds he needed to. I think the property needs a tree house to bird watch, relax, meditate or maybe read in.

[@wakingtheworld]

Agree with you on the tree house idea!

[@SteffanieOfOz]

I think a tree house is an excellent idea.

[@ThePjl110]

The snakes would love it!

[@wakingtheworld]

@@ThePjl110 Hmmm.... But they get anywhere and would Max be too bothered?

[@anneliesjoss]

Yaaaaaaayyyyyyyyyyy Occy!!! You look wonderful🥰. Our 3 “mature” doggies are now 14, 11 and almost 11……. And our cat will be 17 in March.

[@sandranatali1260]

My 13 year old just crossed over the Rainbow Bridge, its been 2 weeks now, but I'm still looking for her. I miss her so much. Am so grateful for having her in my life.

[@patzumach3425]

I understand. We lost our 14 year old shih tzu in October, and my heart still sinks when we come home and he isn’t here to greet us. Hope you find healing and peace ❤

[@deathbychocolate584]

I just lost my 14 year old little guy as well. It’s so hard 💔. I miss him so much.

[@patzumach3425]

@@deathbychocolate584 💔

[@sherrywisler3718]

I am so sorry for your loss. I lost my cat, Levi, several weeks ago and I miss him so much.

[@annierouleau8688]

Max, I am following you for you. and Occy I love the idea of making a book with all the plants and flowers you have on the land. Don't forget the most important thing, take care of your mental and physical health. Hugs and love to you both

[@MaxandOccy]

Thank you Annie I really appreciate that! And yes, this book needs to happen 💛

[@carenclemmons5002]

@@MaxandOccy Max have a look for free range homesteading I believe they live in Western Australia but not sure. But they have really mastered the ‘no dig’ gardening big time. Warning: if you don’t can or otherwise preserve the harvest goods definitely scale back on things size wise. You’ll see what I mean after checking out their site on you tube. You may know them from free range sailing. Wonderful capable people. The homestead is looking marvelous to me. Minus the snakes. I was told they taste like chicken but I’m not hunting them , for sure.

[@naturalandproud6363]

Seeing Bec's baby and Occy swimming made my day. Thank you!

[@theharshtruthoutthere]

Deuteronomy 11:16 KJV Take heed to yourselves, that your heart be not deceived, and ye turn aside, and serve other gods, and worship them; 2 Timothy 3:13 KJV But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived. lets analyse the lies through which are we daily deceived: lie: schools are of use (fact. schools keep slavery alive and stands for dumbing down the population of mankind) lie: moon and mars landings, (fact: even masons know they cannot leave - earth is closed system, unless you want to drown, there is no other place created for us to live in.) lie: news channels share truth (fact: these are for politic propaganda) lie: voting matters (fact: politic propaganda) lie: money has a value of its own (fact: it is just a tool of this world, which value has been agreed upon world wide, it should be not loved, only used as needed.) lie: NASA lies (globe and all....) (fact: NASA stands for TO DECEIVE and 2 members expose their own lies, one is still alive, the other (Wernher Von Braun) place a clear clue on his own gravestone) - you havn´t searched - have you? lie: the lgbtq++++ propaganda (fact: it is a part of masonry depopulation agenda, 500 000 000 souls, thats their goal - Georgia Guidestones! - who said it be worthy to forget?) lie: Evolution and the dinosaurs. (fact: mankind is not hybrid kind) to keep stating that there was an evolution, then we ain´t humans, we aint then mankind, we are then hybrids. Are you a hybrid? Lie: holidays (xmas, Halloween, new year eve and so on) (fact: PAGAN HOLIDAYS, to praise BAAL, the god of this world) lie: U.F.Os (fact: they are demons/evil spirits in high places, against whom we fight daily = spiritual warfare) lie: rules and laws rule the world (fact: signs and symbols of masonry do) lie: believe in being educated (fact: found daily living with the lack of knowledge) lie: religions are ways to heaven (fact: JESUS CHRIST is only way to heaven. Religions, no matter its name = masonic garbage) lie: our dead loved ones stay around to “ghost” (fact: hunting and ghosting is job of demons, not of humans. We, humans, come from GOD and return back to HIM and all the stories of having been seen a ghost - terrifying, scary, dark, cold - again no job of analysing been done here by you- right?) Lie: Humans have no immune system and we need vaccines as these save lives (fact: humans HAVE IMMUNE SYSTEM and vaccines are created for one or two purpose: to kill or to cripple. If you took all their poison shots then later in life comes all kinds of medical diagnoses = vaccines crippled you - remember that) lie: there is no GOD (fact: There is GOD, who redeems sinners and created us directly from the dust of the earth: Psalms 139:14 (KJV) I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvellous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well.) to keep claiming that there is no GOD and we aint created directly from the dust of the earth, we soon run out logic, regardless to we place “evolution” in our claims or not and our dead, whats happening to them as they sleep in their graves? - they decay away, becoming the dust form which they were taken, if it ain`t so then we are simply reality deniers. lie: 911 was terror attack (fact: 911 was an inside job, meaning the work of your loved government) lie: TV watching is of use (fact: television (TV) = tell a lie vision, a weapon for our minds, keeping it under MK ULTRA) half lie/half truth: earth is a stage where everyone plays rolls (fact: earth is stage, a freemasonry checkerboard, where both side, black and white are masons and humans both in politics and regular souls = the naive public gets daily played) lie: children are government to raise (fact: children are parents to raise, it takes 2 to make them, it takes 2 to raise them). Lie: we live already in the matrix (fact: we live since birth in BABYLON which is to become “matrix” as Man - us, must merge with machine aka take the mark of the beast and then matrix aka false reality becomes to be 100%) lie: humans are not intelligent enough (fact: it is forgotten fact, we all are intelligent, many have suffered the illness from this world, being indoctrinated by masons, cause who give us the school system which we have? masons did, because they need slaves). Lie: love is low standard and = lust (fact love is high standard as love means> John 15:13 Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. Lie> do what thy wilt there is no body who has the right to judge you (fact> GOD SHALL JUDGE YOU AFTER YOU HAVE DEPARTED ON EARTH and Christians are also called to give out righteous judgment, therefore repent * born again * go and sin no more) lie: slavery is over (fact: slavery was never over, it just changes a little as we are no longer buy`d or sold, still prepared through school systems for our future slavery, succumb to our slave lives based on our free will) lie: BIBLE is man written and a fairytale (fact: BIBLE is written by GOD, through man, bible is not fairytale. BIBLE IS: BASIC INFORMATION/instruction BEFORE LEAVING EARTH = BIBLE. A book - yes, book which we all need as it is only one filled with information and instructions we all need for life on earth. Lie: Miss beauty contests around the world is about beauty of FEMALES (fact: these contests are about beauty of MALES IN DRAG) lie: Medical “virus” known as COVID 19 (facts: real VIRUSES are in Hollywood and kept secret: - THE TTM virus = being tare, trans, mason. Lie: There is no truth, no right nor wrong and all is allowed as long as you are happy. (fact: truth is easy to find, search: BIBLE + FREEMASONRY and expose masons in masonry). 28 lies, should i go on?

[@joannewolfe5688]

Suggestion1 -- the house: Now that you have done a quick renno and have a place to spread out and be comfortable, consider leaving it as is for eventual use as a guest house. Maybe allow yourself to relax more this year, take on a few smaller projects, and plan for your permanent dream house, which you could locate where you thought a "tiny house" might go. I don't know whether your planning commission would allow two homes on your property: if not, consider subdividing the land. It just means you would own both parcels but could have more than one dwelling. Rather than tear down the current shack and go through all the stress of rebuilding on that site while living in your van, plus wasting the time and materials you've put into it, consider building a permanent home tucked away on the property, so that when you have guests they can hang out in the first home/living area (to still include the van site) one comes to on the property and you can retain your privacy at a more secluded spot. If your building council will not allow two homes on the property, consider temporary removal of the kitchen counter while they come look at the shack -- no kitchen and no bathroom mean it's technically not a house. They may even consider the kitchen NOT a kitchen as long as there is no kitchen range. These are technicalities you need to research. You can always put in a "bathroom" (meaning a compost toilet) AFTER they look at the place. Again, as long as you have no flush toilet, they may consider it not a house. Suggestion 2-- the garden: it would be just as easy to site a new garden at this point as to renno the current overgrown one. Either way, mow the desired area as short as possible, lay down a couple overlapping areas of recycled flattened cardboard boxes where you want beds to be, and lay down about 4 inches of topsoil/compost (you'd have to purchase bagged soil at this point) on top the cardboard. Plant directly in that soil. The cardboard will have dissolved by the time plant roots need to go through it, and also whatever vegetation was there previously will have rotted away. It would be worthwhile starting your own compost bin(s) made from pallets (see YT videos) and dump all green stuff waste you may have, palm fronds chopped up, leaves, food waste (not meat), etc. In your climate, you will soon have great compost to put on your garden beds.

[@barbaramuzychka3836]

I have a large compost bin in my yard and the people who gave it to me before they moved told me only veggies and fruit No dairy, fish, meat, oils etc

[@gemmcraft]

So many great ideas!! Especially the changing purpose of the primary dwelling 👏👏👏

[@MaxandOccy]

Appreciate the great suggestions Joanne, definitely food for thought 💛

[@ShellyBomb]

Wow - what a well thought out & interesting response with great suggestions for Max to consider --- 🥰

[@ShellyBomb]

P.S. I like Joanne's idea of keeping the renovated cabin "as is" and building from the ground up a new home for Max & Occy in the spot he mentioned for a guest house 🏡 in the future --- so many possibilities! 😉

[@patriciajones1623]

This idea-coming to stay/vaca, the bush walk, planted booklet!!! I would love that! 😘🤗💜☮️

[@Ellierua]

Sounds like a great plan for 2024. A bit more balance for you and occy. We're not just here for the projects or you banging out videos, we're here because you are such a great person! And of course Occy!

[@MaxandOccy]

I appreciate that so much, thank you 💛💛

[@karenlee6501]

The best. Down to earth, open and vulnerable. I have loved your whole journey. Your boy Occy is a delight. Love his hansome fur cut. I wish you well on deciding how the cabin will evolve and i love the sound of the new house. I'll cross my fingers you can have both. None of it has to happen over night. Give yourself time to mull it over. Start with the fire pit and hot tub. 2024 is a year of new beginnings, bringing all of our wisdom and learnings together and building the future we want. Much love from Sth Aus

[@neutonrenda2303]

You can't choose a better place to do any gardening, some fruits would just need planting and the climate will do the rest. Finding locals growing vegetables is always a quick way of knowing what does well in that area. Once you get it going it's so rewarding and relaxing to do.👍

[@SteffanieOfOz]

Great to see you back for 2024. First plan where your main residence will eventually be. Then plan where you think things should be like the fire pit, future hot-tub, tree house and more should be placed. The seating area around the fire pit should not be accessible to snakes, so I would definitely remove the timber and replace with retaining wall concrete blocks. When it comes to your vegetable patch, remember that you live in Australia and our animals will burrow under the fence (wire) for access. I would suggest having raised garden beds, (better for the back) just like your Canadian friends Tyler & Todd. Where your veranda is, hang pots with strawberries, mini tomato's, things like that. I would love to see mini fruit tree's lining your walkways. I would love to see you growing banana's and pawpaw around your outdoor shower for that tropical feel and food. Make sure you set aside an area where you can put your food scraps that you will share with the native wildlife. I used a half water tank for my compost. I would put all my grass clippings, food scraps, etc in it and the chooks during the day would turn it over, and the native animals would also help themselves to it at night and early morning instead of my gardens. I hope this is of some help. Remember, you are doing an awesome job. I am very proud of what you have achieved so far. We love seeing you and Occy just enjoying yourselves so if a project does not get finished for that weeks episode, make it go over to the next. Take time to enjoy life and be happy. Mega hugs for you both.

[@evaadams8298]

Brilliant post Steffanie!

[@elenstar100]

Agree with all she said!!! Here in the US we need to fence out deer, or no plants survive. The biggest advice from this gardener is to find the rhythm. Garden plants need checked on daily IMHO, to see catch any issues early. Do they need water, or maybe to be under cover because too much water. Are there bugs moving in. Diatomaceous earth is my go to for crawling bugs. Neem spray for tiny infestations. Neither will hurt occy or you! My goal for 2024 is also to let go of deadlines that are made up. Mo more staying up so late you are wiped out the next day! Let's enjoy this jorney!!!!

[@Satya2btrue]

⁠@@evaadams8298Birdies raised garden beds are brilliant. Down south they can dry out but that won’t be your problem up there. Also a good channel to watch is Self Sufficient Me. Same sort of environment. Not sure if he’s QLD or northern NSW. Great step by step easy content.

[@angelinajalbert3420]

What an awesome post! Great advice. Raised garden beds are perfect!!

[@MaxandOccy]

Thanks for the awesome advice Steffanie 💛💛

[@Whydiss]

Hey Max, I’m the President of the Australia Tiny House Association and happy to help with any info you may need.

[@jofiedler]

So happy you’re back. Love your hair and Occy’s new hair do.

[@MaxandOccy]

Thanks Jo, good to be back! 💛

[@wombat1957]

Hey Max, as far as gardening goes, you should look at a fellow KZbinr called The Weedy Garden. He's an awesome presenter who lives in the Northern Rivers area. His property is all productive and centers on the permaculture method. I highly recommend you take a look at what he's doing. Cheers mate.

[@enough1494]

Ah, I am reliving my life after widowhood and 4 small kids. That was 1998. Now I am a master gardener, have 3 casitas I rent out a few months of the year, kids are gone and I spend a lot of time in the USA. My youngest son now runs the homestead! My casitas are above ground, one 20 ft up with nice deck area bellow…..people love this casita best! We are high in the western coffee hills in Puerto Rico . Blessings dear…..as far as the garden start very simple…herbs, tomatoes cucumbers and peppers are a good start. Mybe some squashes? Start small and grow as you master crops 🙌😉💕🏝️💕

[@rixanneh18]

Ooo awesome idea 💡 with all of the tall 🌳 🌲 🌴 trees! A home up among the tall figs 💕

[@jonap5740]

Love this advice for a novice gardener!

[@gemmcraft]

Totally agree!! Start small with the garden and just plant what you most frequently eat, then learn lessons about how those plants grow/pests/coplanting/style of garden bed etc. You'll also learn a lot by testing a few crops over 2 years with different weather. I just did this exact process at my new place in Uki (Northern NSW Australia) and it's been so good to understand our landscape, growing conditions and what we will actually use from the garden. Starting small will help you not feel really overwhelmed and feel like giving up too! So important when you have lots of other big projects happening on your property too (like we do)

[@MaxandOccy]

Wow love this and love that journey for you from what was obviously a very hard start 💛 Your place sounds amazing and no doubt your kids are so proud of their supermum! Thank you for your wisdom🙏🏻

[@enough1494]

Absolutely ! I just love Max, he reminds of me long ago! Hahahaha Warm hugs from the tropics! 💕😉@@gemmcraft

[@rachelm5478]

I'm an ecologist. I bought a house 2 years ago with an overgrown yard full of mostly non-native plants. I take a few steps when deciding whether a plant should stay or go 1. Is it native? Stay 2. If it's not native and is a problematic weed (your local council's website will probably have info on these) then it goes 3. If it's not problematic, I like to observe who's using it. If native animals use it then I keep it e.g. my hibiscus is a great winter food source for neighbourhood honeyeaters. If non-native animals are using it then it goes e.g. blackbirds love dense hedges. A word of warning, those plant ID apps aren't always accurate but they do well on common plants. I like to Google the plant that they suggest to get more pictures of the plant and see if it looks like the one I'm trying to ID.

[@PS-bs8oe]

Plus always keep area around house very clear. We once kept a huge pile of woodchips in front of house for future gardenplans ... Kids loved to play around it and run over it. 2 years later we were removing them...and found huge nest of very dangerous vipers whose eggs had loved being laid in the hot moist pile.

[@Samsona75]

I am a North American Gardener, but I think if you connect with local gardening KZbin channels, you will likely get lots of proper advice. One little piece of advice I would offer is to build a potting bench near your garden (wooden, with a sink and space for pots and filling them with dirt so you don't track a bunch of dirt into your cabin. Another piece of advice I would offer is - if you have any perennial vegetables native to your area in Australia - plant that stuff (here in North America - I grow asparagus that comes up every year, Loveage, parsley, chives and green onions, sage and thyme...you plant once and it returns year after year). Fruit trees where you can is great also.

[@MaxandOccy]

Great tips thank you! 💛

[@Shibalvr]

Auto watering drippers for garden. Several gardens around as fruits and veg have different needs, yes google as I have seen many good instruction’s. Comfrey, compost, trees and water catchment. Mosquito’s are driving me crazy. Patches no work. Any ideas? Plantings near your water sources like your shower runoff. Maybe Hostas etc. Water loving things. I am sure you have diff micro climes around the property. Invite ECO friendly folks to help you as well like we do on Maui. Planting, weeding, etc. Cannot wait for more tours!😊😊😊❤❤❤

[@Samsona75]

This is great advice,@@Shibalvr

[@jaaadeee938]

Hope to see snorkeling, surfin',, and chillin' at your favorite palm line beach! 🌊

[@deborahtapper3917]

Grow orchids for the beauty. Grow salad greens to eat, rocket, spinach from seed. Grow herbs like coriander, mint for drinks (in containers). Grow things that grow faster. Slower growing and the bugs set up shop. You don’t want to feel ‘defeated’ by Mother Nature. Not if you’re a beginner gardener.

[@le_th_]

Happy to see Occy swimming. It's a great low-impact exercise for his joints. Thank you for helping him out of the truck and van.

[@Elimoo]

I can so relate to your highs and lows. As a single mother with barely teenage children I bought 32 hectares of unimproved land - only a few hours from yours. All I had was a love of all things rural. I sold around 5 years ago (after living on the property for 15 years) and have wonderful memories and funny moments but also recall the significant struggles. So much to learn and so much to do. So many constraints yet so much freedom.

[@sharonlundquist8433]

For an old man, Occy is looking amazing. I can't believe he is going to be 13. Give him a hug for me please. Looking forward to seeing all your planned projects this year Max.

[@MaxandOccy]

Thanks Sharon! Will do 💛

[@pennysugas3240]

Welcome back! So happy to see you & Occy again. And the surprise little snippet of you holding precious little Frankie Lee with Osso lazing nearby was an added bonus. Tfs & best of everything for 2024!

[@Shibalvr]

Maybe one day if they can brave plane, we will see Eamon, Bec and Frankie Lee visit Occy and Unco Max here.❤❤😊😊 and or maybe they could eventually checkin with Kingingit, Nate/Kara, Louis/Raya/Neo, throw in Flying the Nest lol. Circumnavigate with The Wynns down under. Parlay is home now on Great Barrier Island. James the sailor is heading to Sydney and Tasmania from Nelson. The KZbin community is huge!!! Sending hugs for Occy!😊😊

[@kangaanon2130]

I see you visited Eamon and Bec in Canada. I hope Bec is ok. Everyone is soo worried about them.

[@Iris_Transforms_Healing]

Please consider where the light shines when planting and building tiny house. Will save energy, time, and resources (human, plant, animal, and insects) to be intentional and get it right the first go ‘round.

[@christinetoevs6641]

WELCOME BACK ....an excellent "refresh" video - I was SO delighted to see the sneak peak of Frankie Lee /brother Bear (& uncle Max looking SO paternal!) -hoping E&B will soon feel up to returning ...sorely missed! What a magic place - the land of my youth ..enjoyed so much then - but fate dictates changes /life moves on and here I am retired /staying close to my sons & grand-daughters on the other side of the world! Blessings for a wonderful fulfilling 2024!

[@MaxandOccy]

Thank you Christine! 💛

[@MNP208]

He must have cut that part out. I didn't see it!

[@kathgold4188]

Look at about 46 seconds. Adorable!!@@MNP208

[@christinetoevs6641]

@@MNP208 ....right up the front in the intro - if you blinked you would miss it --- just a flash! ...I rewound and paused to get a nice eyeful!🥰 @0.47sec

[@stirrednotshaken4823]

@@MNP208 0:46

[@glendacomben3508]

Such a beautiful place i the the old house is just beautiful

[@belwynne1386]

Definitely want to learn about the flora and fauna…geology, social culture…all the local stuff. Thanks!

[@MaxandOccy]

Noted! 💛

[@jadnstoltz5534]

Compost Compost Compost for the garden and to utilize your food scrap waste and shipping boxes. Cardboard can be shredded to provide carbon fiber for the more wet food waste and the result will be excellent soil additive for happier veggies, fruit trees and plants. I’ve helped build a composting farm here on the Big Island of Hawai’i and it’s key to a more sustainable garden and utilizes consumer waste that would otherwise become trash to haul away. I hope you consider this and can help with advice as you get started. Thank you for these great homesteading videos, your, and occys wonderful and inspiring energy. Aloha 🌈🌱💫

[@jacquespoulemer3577]

Dear Max, Occy and Gorgeous Queensland. yes please more plant talk, and when the garden gets going all the ins and outs. One friendly bit of advice on the garden, start with things that grow easily in your climate so you get a good yield and the necessary encouragement from success to keep doing the hard work. Chilies, one brassica (broccoli, cauliflower, kale, brussel sprouts, all ironically variations of the same plant) Green Beans, some nice root veg (if there arent too many underground critters) Potatoes, onions, garlic are also fairly easy. Doggos do very well if cared for, we had one spoiled girl who lived 21 years, that, in spite of the fact that she liked to chase cars and had 3 broken legs during that time. Hugs to you both from Oaxaca Mexico (High Desert) and all the best for 2024. Jim retired 37 years in my own little patch of paradise. We harvested our ONE vanilla bean that took a couple of years to grow (13 Feb 2024)

[@ElianeAmbroisine]

If you are going to have a vegy patch the first thing is a good strong fence because your neighbours ( local wild life) love to eat young sprouts. We learned our lesson, even parsley is not safe.

[@sweigh72]

Couldn’t click fast enough when my notification came up have missed my Sunday Occy fix but I hope you had a good break Max and managed to relax. I’m looking forward to watching and finding out what youv’e been up to and what’s next. ✌️ Aww Max back again after watching I just wanted to comment on how beautiful the property is looking it was obviously the right choice as You and Occy look like your thriving , sending you peace and love from a very cold and rainy UK 🤍

[@kirish43]

The cabin looks amazing now! Well worth the save

[@ottocarmanjones7143]

Get macadamia, avocado and banana trees in the ground asap. You won’t need to baby them like a veggie patch. Perennial self seeding herb garden that’s low maintenance might be a good plan if you don’t want to be tied to it.

[@AdinaShoshanaSturman-os6tk]

Good to see back, refreshed, new outlooks, more new beginnings! You were both missed. 🌾🪻🪴

[@MaxandOccy]

Thank you, we are happy to be back 💛💛

[@nateboer]

Don't know if you'll see this Max, but as a heads up, I would do some research into shaving double coated dogs. It actually makes it even more difficult for them to thermoregulate, as rather than a breezy, thick coat that they come equipped with, you've now forced them into a wool sweater. No bueno!

[@andreavale1184]

You and Frankie Lee!🩷 Great video, you and sweet boy Occy seemed refreshed and happy. 😊👍🏻☀️

[@MaxandOccy]

💛💛

[@natl0426]

For Aussie weather - I've heard from many people the mini tomatoes + Lebanese cucumber is one of the easiest to start with :)

[@paulas_lens]

Been thinking about you two! So good to see a video post. :)

[@hollamonE]

Occy is a Legend. How does he get more handsome everyday? ❤️🦁

[@BP-yc5nk]

I could watch Occy living his best life all day! So cute! ❤️

[@Msfifisquarepantz]

I’d build a stage. My friend is a potter on the Big Island of Hawaii. His home is deep in the rainforest . His wife is a dancer and they built a stage for her in a clearing and made seats out of carved stumps. They also have acoustic concerts, plays, weddings and other activities that use the spectacular setting to enhance the art.

[@cherriemater]

15:35 As you get started ... only grow what you'll actually eat or have time alotted to preserve. Sometimes, failures can occur when you say, "Ooo ... I wanna try to grow this or that." There is plenty of times to add new crops as you learn how to budget your time, both for care [weeding and watering and pest control. OH MY!] and harvest. (I say this because my hubby does the tilling and planting and leaves the preserving to me. One year he planted Detroit Dark Beets [I hate beets] and kohlrabi [what in the world is a kohlrabi?] We ended up giving most of those away.) Also, don't forget about those things you plant in the fall/winter to harvest the next year. Here in Northern Michigan (45th parallel / zone 5) we plant our garlic in fall to harvest the following summer, not to mention that asparagus can take up to three years to obtain fully succulent stems. My final thought is, "Get to know your zone." Once you know what zone you are in, [ummmm ... do they have those in Australia?] you'll be able to plan for the things that grow better outdoors and those things that are out of your zone but could be grown in a greenhouse [aka ... Eamon and Bec style]. ❤😊 You're gonna do awesome! I just know it. 🤩 And you'll have lots of things to share with all the family and friends who come to visit.

[@AuntieJs]

Max you should just make a tranquil relaxation garden in that garden area with a pond and some seating. Or a fire pit area. :)

[@kimberlyobrien4677]

I think your ideas for the property are wonderful. Especially the trails in the bingo type cards to mark things off. I've always found plants fascinating and I think that younger people and even older people could enjoy something like that very much. The place is looking beautiful and Occy looks great with his new haircut and so do you for that matter.😊 Blessings to you both

[@jaaadeee938]

Tiny home, perfect! My favorite sweet spot are steps from a palm line beach, in the jungle. I've not traveled much, however I've thoroughly enjoyed every single adventure! The Osa Peninsula, Manzanillo, Yucatan Peninsula, Kauai are stunning! You are a very blessed man! Enjoy you life!!

[@jphanks]

Saw more of Eamon and Bec's baby girl from you than them 😂 Occy is looking great! Your sun space for the veggie patch is limited so definitely spend a year where it is to watch and learn from the property and the sun.i love the plant ID idea!

[@JamieLatham-oy6rd]

Really where. I haven't even seen them post

[@julieholcombe7422]

They haven't and that's fine. They need time with that precious girl❤ I just pray they are all happy and healthy! Thank you Max for showing us a little glimpse of baby Frankie and Osso with "Uncle" Max!❤

[@10daydreams]

@@JamieLatham-oy6rd If you go to Eamon and Bec's page and click on community, there is a post "hi world" and a pic of Eamon and Bec's baby along with her name (I won't spoil it).

[@jabbaraedwards8395]

That’s who the baby is, cool!

[@julieholcombe7422]

They did post 3 pictures of baby Frankie a while back, I think maybe on Insta. One of just her, one of she, Eamon & Bec and one of Frankie and Osso. She is beautiful ❤️

[@helenvann3506]

No dig is the way to go. As to what to plant, grow what you like to eat. I live in a little duplex and only have a small area at the back so my garden is full of herbs - parsley, thyme, oregano and basil - and then when the season is right I grow masses of green veggies, the Asian greens go really well here in the sub tropics. As to changing the location of the veggie garden you need to find a north facing area that gets at least six hours of sunlight every day, both summer and more importantly in the winter. A great KZbin channel for veggie growing is Mark at Self Sufficient Me. He lives just outside Brisbane and has the most amazing food garden. His videos are full of invaluable advice

[@emptynestgardens9057]

Excited for the laid back garden and life in Australia content Max. I won't go off on a bunch of garden/homestead advice other than to say it's a journey and one I'm glad you are interested in. Charles Dowding is a good place to start right here on KZbin. 🌱

[@MaxandOccy]

Thanks, I'll check him out! 💛

[@Shibalvr]

The explanation on Occy having age related issues with heat regulation reminds me. I hope folks watching please do not shave double coated breeds. Are Aussies double coated? My Shibas are and I live on Maui and they dont get shaved because of overheating and sunburn. Many folks shave dogs due to laziness and yes my house looks like a winter wonderland year round. Glad to see Occy only got a slight shortening of rear fur. Now you can see his back leg issues of age. My Shibas has knee and hip issues with age as well. Swimming is awesome. Shibas hate water! Fear is more likely. Streams ok, ocean, nope. Yes, too much weight from training treats and food thievery here from sleepy dad leaving sandwiches around low.😂😂😂 when you are in your 70’s and barely get around yourself try helping dogs get around. Tough. Big yard and beach parks here on Maui are key. Hiking days are over. Too many sharks/people here for snorkeling anymore sadly. You have a superb wonderland and hopefully good tools to make your land enjoyable. Does that tree give figs??? I miss figs here on Maui. Lost my tree to drought. Love you guys, best of luck.😊😊😊 Aloha

[@carolranes91]

My current pup is 11 years old so it is stressful dealing with elderly pet but they are so worth it!

[@evaadams8298]

Yes mine is 13 In May (gulp!) it’s hard….

[@shaeheart]

Mine is 13. So stressful dealing with geriatric pup.

[@MichelleJonesKralka]

I have 15.5 year old PRT and she has severe cognitive decline. It’s so terribly sad to watch. We know we don’t have much more time with her. Hug your senior pups everyone!

[@georgeattig8088]

Thanks for the glimpse of Frankie. I was about to unsubscribe to her parents’ YT channel, but she’s so cute that I’ll give them a little more time on parental leave 😊. Edit: Please keep the cabin if you can. It’s an asset that would be costly to replace and you can do many things with it. About the garden, don’t beat yourself up. You had to get your living arrangements in order first before you start with the gardening challenge. If you hadn’t, you would probably be real messed up and feeling even more stressed and depressed about your failed attempt at veggie growing. Dial it back, take one project at a time (and ONLY one project), and enjoy your property. That’s why you bought it in the first place ❤

[@kathleenchild]

Absolutely, I’m here for you and Occy doing whatever life throws at you. Enjoy the process of building while taking the time to live your life as well. Hugs to Occy ❤

[@MaxandOccy]

Thank you for joining us Kathleen! 💛

[@mary.1984]

I imagine that the "council" you're talking about is similar to housing regulations we have here in the states, like what is and isn't permitted. When my parents did an addition on our former house, the office over the new garage couldn't be a bedroom. Which was strange BECAUSE the master was over the garage in the original build, it had a fire safety door as well ( they had an inspector come through because a few things had to be buttoned up to put the house on the market cause of the divorce - couldn't even have the laundry shoot so they had to close that up too ).

[@kwakcupcake8256]

Welcome back Max and Occy!!! Have missed you but glad you had some great down time. Absolutely love any content you put out, so thank you for wanting to continue. You bring a lot of happiness to me, living vicariously through your ups and downs and enabling me to experience the really beautiful country you live in. Glad Occy is getting some great occupational pool therapy :)

[@MaxandOccy]

Thank you so much 💛💛

[@self4autism333]

ha ha I am an OT, are you too.

[@merklingassoc]

Max,missed you and Occy. I see you visited Eamon, Bec and their new little baby girl while you were away. I hope all three are doing well. Your one week fix up on the old cabin really turned it into a home. Why tear it down??? Great place to live while you build your tiny home and then it can be a guest cabin and work place for you.

[@rjwesley1]

Thanks for continuing to take us on your journey! Looking forward to this year's adventures! Be kind to yourself too, Max! ❤

[@MaxandOccy]

Thank you 💛💛

[@RanaureliFarm]

Suggest you to consider putting up a greenhouse which will benefit you in many ways.....easy to maintain, can grow anything you want during summer or winter, be a source of the nutritious vegis for you and also which could develop into a source of additional income where you can supply certain vegis to your local market area. Also you can simply automate watering & fertilizing with many apps(I'm doing it right now with so much ease. If you need I would be glad to share my knowledge & experience with you) which will give you the freedom to travel as and when you wish unlike growing outside. Yes, would love to see and know more about the wild life/plants you have in your property. Hope one day to visit you and Occy and your awesome property. Good luck for 2024 & look forward to your updates mate

[@MelaniePhoenix]

Happy New Year! It's always good to hear from you and I'm glad you spent time taking good care of yourself. You're such a hard worker and need to take breaks whenever possible. Also, I'm loving both your and Occy's haircuts. Learning more about the plants on your property would definitely be interesting 😊 May 2024 be a wonderful year for you both! 💛

[@MaxandOccy]

Happy New year Mel! Definitely needed the little break but good now ready to get my hands dirty again 🙌🏼 And glad you're down on the plant front, I am certainly keen to learn more. Likewise for your 2024 💛

[@wilcarcottagewaubra]

For someone who is not really a gardener and getting a garden established, I would suggest a couple raised garden beds would be a better option than in-ground beds. They will require less weeding than in-ground beds and will be easier to maintain in the long run. If you find you get into gardening than you could expand with in-ground beds. It may even be a sponsership opportunity for you.

[@paulinehiggins8239]

Nothing like the rain, the heat and humidity, the grass growing, the rain, the heat and humidity, the grass growing etc. Living in a tropical area can be fun if you have a big property. Looks great Max really great. Love to you both. 💕

[@queens6583]

Welcome back and glad to see you and Occy looking well. I'm so hoping the little baby we saw is Bec and Eamons daughter. So relieved to see she looks healthy and adorable if it is. That's some mow job you have to keep up with but the result is beautiful. Originally I was just worried about gigantic spiders, but meeting pythons and friends on the way to the toilet is a definite NO for me. The mullet is not gone it's just a mini one now. Snip, snip Maxx.

[@user-mp4zs2by9m]

I’d love to learn more about the plants, animals, birds & reptiles on your property. Also good doses of your journey & wellbeing. As always, Occy is essential! 💟☮️☯️

[@MaxandOccy]

Love that! 💛

[@801LOVER]

Your land is beautiful!! I love seeing your pup so happy!! Touches the heart ❤

[@MaxandOccy]

Thank you, me too 💛💛

[@louisianna01]

With the Veggie garden, I would highly recommend an irrigation system, even if it’s simple. It’ll save water having the water go straight to the root ball of the plants.

[@GG_GG_GG]

You made such great progress over the year. Some big road blocks along the way and you tackled it all so well. Great job and great videos!

[@lisamurphy9136]

The vege patch, maybe make it smaller and create a chicken pen, snake proof, and create a vege patch elsewhere like your van wives have.

[@sarahamers4660]

LOVE, LOVE, LOVE that you and Occy are back. You have both been missed so much. The ideas for future episodes are fantastic and of course we want to see your daily life with you enjoying each day a little more than the stressed you we saw last year. The idea for a booklet for people to use when staying sounds amazing and as I am from the UK maybe have things we need to avoid also (stinging/poisonous weeds/insects/snakes etc) Can't wait for your next update xxx

[@MaxandOccy]

Thank you Sarah! We are stoked to be back, too 💛

[@christinewenner1508]

My wish for you is to get a friend for Occy. A partner, mate to give him a partner in play. It can add good years to their life and you don’t feel so alone when they cross over that rainbow bridge. We have grown to care about you and love that you are settling down and pacing yourself and the projects on your bit of heaven.

[@Rebecca-zk7zq]

I am a long time follower .....good to see you and Occy back! I am always always rooting for you and Occy! A joy to watch!

[@Oakie222]

It’s good to see you without mullet. Hi Occy. Raised beds it will help the pain in your back working in the garden.

[@heatherscoggins395]

Great to see you and Occy!! 🤍

[@PeacefulTraveller888]

Max the lounge room area where you consider a projector - I could see some built in seating there - big enough to stretch out on and they could have a duel purpose of being built in storage boxes. Also I suggest consulting a permaculture gardener. They might like to have a live in holiday in N/NSW in exchange for gardening. Other gardening help might be to get set up to accommodate WOOFERS.

[@JLTravels]

Beautiful videography & storytelling-welcome back! Shave for you both & cleanup all around is super!

[@MaxandOccy]

Thank you 💛💛

[@ianlalonde8343]

Just be yourself, that's why we're here!

[@saja09able]

We've/I've missed you! Welcome back. Max, what I've learned in Life is that in order to enjoy the great times, we must go through not so great times. Enjoy each day.❤

[@MaxandOccy]

💛💛

[@anneleahy9010]

The Self Sufficient Me gardening you tube channel is great, he is in your climate. He is great.

[@Tazzy5]

I have missed Occy so much! He looks great. Most of my friends with aging dogs have them on gabapentin. I think your property is so gorgeous. Your drone shots had me envisioning a zipline through the property but that may not be a good idea. Great to see you Max, happy new year!

[@MaxandOccy]

He's been out there living his best life but I have no doubt he'd appreciate all the love 💛 And ha, a zipline has been discussed! But yes, as you said, probably not a good idea 😂

[@pamelao9803]

What a great video to start the year. Missed seeing you both - so glad you are back. You have so many great ideas for this year can’t wait to see them come to fruition. Love the idea of creating a book with pictures of the plants and animals on your property. Also - the fire pit certainly needs a redo and should not be a major project so it should be fun. Also on the empty wall in the living room a low open bookcase for some books but also things you may want to display? Your whiteboard seemed to have many ideas so you should pick one that you have the most interest in and start a plan for it. Would love your videos to include real life where you are as well. Thanks for sharing your life!

[@rinaf6550]

Max, the break served you well, you sound so focused, the best since I started following you. I am ex emergency services - retained firie so understand alot of what you have gone thru. Mental health is paramount. Develop your veggie garden patch with working girls (chooks) & try to plant as many plants that are medicinal as well as being edible. I just lost my street cat girl that I have fed since 2007 & bought her & her nephew into my home 2 years ago, it's been soul destroying!! Haven't stopped crying since Saturday early hours when I found she had died not long after I tried to get sleep at 1am. Really trying to hold it together, but your attitude & Occy have served me a good reminder to keep fighting & ask for help when you need it, looking forward to the next vid bring back the mullet!!@😂😂

[@wendykelly8551]

Still think you could register it for it to be used in film and TV for locations... so ideal.. and infra cctv be interesting to see what goes on at night .. occy doing amazing bless ❤❤❤

[@MariE-go7ol]

I can’t believe you showed Emon and Becs baby before they have!!! Everyone is waiting! Maybe it was intentional to let us know they are ok. Your property is breathtaking. What a special oasis.

[@virginiaring]

Great start to a new year, fresh eyes, fresh mind and so much to be excited for! So good to see you and Occy in a great space. Happy to hear you’ve planned for some time away from construction, you’re living in our dream destination with so much beauty to enjoy on your doorstep.

[@MaxandOccy]

Perfect way to start with the old government mandated January off guys ; ) Thank you, excited for the year ahead! 💛

[@amandaflynn3569]

Soil is everything Max. Spend time as long as it takes to get the soil perfect.. then you'll grow anything , the food will grow themselves. You won't have to worry in future. Good luck.

[@nancycoole5217]

Love those beautiful orange flowers! And that Majikal Fig- so old and Wise. Your home is so beautiful. Give many belly rubs to Occy ❤️🐕❤️

[@libbyanderson3752]

May I suggest you investigate what the insurance might cost for public liability if you go ahead with organised tours through the bush. You might get a nasty shock😮 love your blg and your gorgeous dog. You certainly have found a piece of paradise.

[@kingingit]

haha the lion king song for King Occy 🤣 so glad he's doing so well, his new cut is 👌Your land is So SO amazing! I think we'll need to be looking in plannin permissions too soon! Fingers crossed for us both, would love to stay in your little tiny home!

[@suzannealcantara7725]

I believe that song is "The Lion Sleeps Tonight" by the Tokens. One of my favorite songs in the 60's.

[@jrichter56]

Thank you for showing a picture of Eamon and Bec's baby. I almost unsubscribed from their channel because I wasn't sure what was going on. Wish they would post something on their KZbin channel for those of us who don't do social media. Max, you and Occy look great. The time off must have been what you both needed. Your property is beautiful and I'm sure your KZbin followers will support you in whatever decisions you make.

[@carolranes91]

I have had Cocker Spaniels for years and I always shave them down as close as I can in the summer. I hate to see them work so hard and pant so much! I feel like that adds extra strain to their hearts. Anyway it is so much easier to keep them clean and bath them. Mine are pretty much indoor dogs. I walk them several times a day because that forces me to get in some exercise for myself. That is why I always have a dog it forces me to exercise.

[@infobyjackdotson3923]

I think this year you need to focus on planting any type of fruit trees and nut trees because they take so long to mature and the saying goes, I wish I planted a tree 20 years ago, but today’s a good day to plant tree.

[@salparisi4201]

You have a wondrous property and are truly blessed. So wonderful to see Occy so slim and active. The swimming will really help. He is such a sweet guy and you treat him so well. Wishing you two a happy and prosperous new year !

[@MaxandOccy]

Thank you, to you too! 💛

[@bearitraeb]

9:46 that’s ‘liquid sunshine’ ….It will reach places on and around you that dry sunshine can’t reach. Should be embraced fully just like every NOW moment

[@thinkplanetearth2946]

Good video Max. Great to see you back and the always adorable Occy. Looking forward to see what you get up to next. And I like the idea of the book with photos of plants and animals for when your guests come. Very cool.

[@sharonadlam3195]

Welcome back Max & Occy. My advice concerning your vege garden is to just plant, that's it just plant. You will only learn by doing, failing and doing again. My only tip would be to focus on planting what you actually eat. It can be demoralising to plant and care for something that you just end up composting or feeding to the chickens. If you are interested in no dig gardening you can't go past Charles Dowding on KZbin, even though he is northern hemisphere based you will gat lots of tips and hints from him. Good luck with it all.

[@andrescarton5028]

It's great to see you and Occy back! I am back as well and watching your videos, after a hard time cleaning up the destructions after the 1 in 100 years flood event in Far North Qld. I was mentally a bit down but realised that by watching your videos ,it helped me enormously to lift up my spirit. It felt that I had my own personal "Betterhelp" session with your positive vibes and charisma. Thanks.

[@djahant]

Much love to our Occy! You should make a tiki bar with those fronds. Just keep piling them up.

[@debbieburgess873]

Hey Max and Occy. As far as the garden remember you need plenty of sunshine. Check your soil to make sure it has the proper nutrients in it (I got a soil tester at Home Depo, there not expensive). Plant things that you and Occy will eat. My dog loves veggies lol. Drainage is very important also (for this reason due to my sandy soil. i use raised beds with peatmoss to hold water and to prevent loosing nutrients in the soil). I refer to my garden as my zen place because working in the soil grounds me and makes me calm. Hope it does the same for you. Love all your videos and the lush green that surrounds you. I live in the high desert in Southern California and so jealous of what you have :)

[@donnabacon4681]

Wrlcome! Back! I hadn't seen yiur vids and wondered why, but then, I remembered you took off for a bit You look rested; love your mantra. You truly deserve to slow down and enjoy. As long as you have a liveable living space, it's easier to take your time, plan, build, relax, repeat. Someone suggested a hot tub; that would be great esp with all the privacy you have. I love all your ideas. Pick a project and learn as much as possible. Is there someone in town or does the library have classes on gardening? The bench around a fire pit would be fabulous. Maybe close to the hot tub and however it can be accomplished, the heat from the fire pit to warm up the hot tub! Occy is just too cute for words! Such a happy boy! Have a blessed day and a fabulous week!! xxoo

[@wildflower7522]

Lovely to hear from you Max and Occy too of course ❤