How We Learned to Build in the Rainforest: Start to Finish Off-Grid Building

We renovated our old farm shed into a huge studio! / motherthemountain
Learning to build has been one of the most challenging and enriching things we have ever done. When our dad died a few years ago, we felt overwhelmed in so many ways. The realisation that we didn't get the chance for him to pass his skills, knowledge and art of building on to us was one of the hardest things.
Over the years we have slowly tried to teach ourselves to build (with so much help from our mum!) We started with little projects, like making duck and chicken pens out of recycled materials. Next we built a treehouse from bamboo, inspired by our dad’s artful and playful building! Then we were ready for something to push ourselves further, so we challenged ourselves by building an art studio in the old farm shed. Our dad built this shed from trees that he felled, so it was the perfect homage to him and we were able to protect his creation. With so much help from our uncle and mum, we are finally finished this beautiful space!!
We live and farm on the land of the Arakwal and Minjungbal People of the Bundjalung Nation and these practices of regenerative living, agriculture and permaculture owe their roots and theories to Indigenous knowledge - they have been practiced by Indigenous People around the world for so many years. We acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the Country we live on, and recognise their continuing connection to the land and waters. We thank them for protecting this rainforest and its ecosystems since time immemorial.
/ motherthemountain
/ motherthemountainfarm
Anastasia's Instagram: / anast.asia
Julia's Instagram: / juliavanderbyl
Music by Indira Elias
indiraelias.com/
Soon Enough:
open.spotify.c...
Music by Yawn
/ yawn__music
You & I, We Were Kids, Wanna Do Right and Song for a City from the EP You & I:
open.spotify.c...

[@MotherTheMountain]

This journey has been hard work, but so rewarding! We are very grateful to be learning from it with you all! Join us on Patreon to be a part of the story of the farm and this big animal family www.patreon.com/motherthemountain 💕 Each comment means so much to us! Love from Julia, Anastasia, Mum, and all of the animals

[@franklaferriere5754]

Luv you all. My fav granola gals. One day I will make enough from my nature photography to become a patreon sponser for your very worthwhile cause.

[@aminnur92]

Can't find caption on your video. However thanks for your beautifull video and lovely story. Your father must be proud of his legacy

[@deckrayala9167]

hello 😊

[@madelinelevy9067]

Very touching story.😢

[@madelinelevy9067]

You both have the pasion of paintings! But, love to see you if you study architectural or engineering.

[@dakotaovdan]

Just now realize what I’ve been missing most in my life… an entourage of goats to follow me around

[@MotherTheMountain]

Three cheeky goats following us everywhere we go 💕

[@rafddane6832]

And me too

[@titaniumman_22]

I grew up with a few goats and they would follow me through the woods, to the ponds…they were fun lil’ guys! 🐐

[@hubertxxx5564]

Your Pic seems, that you have enough goats following you every day

[@ranindersingh3383]

I am not Happy with my life.Everytime i feel alone in the world.i have no friends.i really want live this life.when i watching Mother The Mountain Farm videos.then i want live a life,like your life.I belong a Farmer family.Good to see you.Love from India 🇮🇳

[@billcushman6780]

I'm sure you're dad is looking down with a smile & pride in his heart, you girls are doing a wonderful job ( mum too ). Thank you for sharing.

[@Gamingjunction-z2t]

you are right, i appreciate your words

[@nyinyi6247]

@@Gamingjunction-z2t 😀

[@purelybeing]

You two are SO freakin' talented and POWERFULL. Me: INSPIRED. Thank you.

[@NyreeAlana]

Beautiful video! I love your studio so much, I can see that it's the perfect space to find inspiration and create! ❤

[@angelmoran1284]

Hello, I was delighted with that place, it is very beautiful, it transmits calm and you girls are very beautiful too.❤🙏

[@MotherTheMountain]

Thank you! It's such a special place -- we're so excited!

[@theRockSalter]

@@MotherTheMountain you gals really are beautiful to behold.

[@crystalneel748]

Wow it turned out so lovely!💝 Thanks for sharing your story as well & your creative labor! My dad was also a carpenter. He passed away in 2012. I’m currently building out a shuttle van into a camper/tiny home having never done such carpentry with my own hands although my dad had helped me in the past build two houses which I had custom designed. I did finish work like painting & wallpaper but no major building tasks. I am often asked now how I know how to build things in my van & all I can say is that I paid attention to my dad building things all of my life not realizing that I had inherited & learned so much by genetics & observation! Looks like you all also inherited such great talents & skills & paid attention to your dad even when too young to build yet! Sometimes I can hear my dad cheering me on as I struggle through the building process! Thanks again for sharing your creativity & accomplishments!💖

[@patrickm1981]

You girls are truly amazing and you honored your father well. Great job 👏 the place looks awesome!! Love your videos and animals ❤

[@triplecap123]

You gals are amazing. Tears are rolling down my cheeks. Your father is SO proud of you, I know this. So much love!!!

[@michaelradel2405]

I just loved this so very much. Very well done, young women. Your Dad would have been so very proud of you, I have no doubt. What vision and determination you both posses. Love the setting and your appreciation of the natural world of which you are part. Truly inspirational. I am enjoying following your story. 🤭👍🙏🤗🌹

[@JohnDoe-sc1pr]

Once again you have proven that there are no problems, only challenges.

[@ChickenGeniusSingapore]

7:34 your goat is spoilt

[@rock-canyon-foodscaping]

what a beautiful piece of the world. the land you are blessed to live on looks like paradise. you both are so talented and your videos are inspiring and motivating. keep it up!

[@mizzkathryn7]

Amazing and so beautiful. love the goats and just everything you are surrounded by You've done a very memorable Job for years to come!

[@JustinC905]

First and foremost: Sorry for your loss. What an amazing way to honour your father. What an amazing creative space to honour him. Everyone involved did such an amazing job at building, finishing, and keeping a memory alive and well. His spirit lives on with the creative work both of you do. Whether it's painting a picture, creating with tapestry, doing regenerative farming and animal care for sustenance. It's amazing what hard work can accomplish. Amazing job at being the best you can be. Let his memories live on with the beautiful work done. Subscribed! Cheers,

[@chefallanvlogs1707]

wow! beautiful watching from philipines

[@mastertemple8369]

Im in Hospital in a small town in Canada with a spinal injury. I'm from Australia but have been trapped here missing home...your story took the pain away thank you..

[@beverlypoehlman311]

Im so impressed with what you have created and honoring your father as well and all your sweet animal friends...what a spectacular video. I was just so enjoying the beauty of where you live with such amazing nature and places to swim. You are truly blessed...wonderful artists living the way you want. I love the music too. Thank you for sharing your story and journey...its gorgeous place...👍👍👍💖💖💖

[@martinwalsh5212]

Wow , great narration almost poetic , plus, cinema photography quality creative shots , video creation, painting , gardening , raising animals , permaculture , building, recycling, dressmaking , cooking. nature caretaking. AND it all goes together ! Gives me a warm fuzzy feeling , id be a proud Dad. It relaxes me so much to watch your videos. You guys are gonna do very well.

[@barrywatler7482]

It is always so hard sorting through bits and pieces and particularly dads shed when they have passed, so many memories. Dad will be watching over you and be very proud of your achievements🤩. Nice spot to work In. Stay safe in what continues to be trying times. Cheers💙

[@MotherTheMountain]

Thank you so much, this is really kind 💙You stay safe too!

[@wild_childofthe80s]

Sorry for your loss beautiful souls. I know how it feels to lose someone close to you.. I admire your strength in doing what you do after the rough time you'll have had.. ♡ That same water level you used is what saved the day with us with our tiny house build.. we had a laser to double check but seriously - EVERYONE needs a water level 😀 Take care sweethearts xox

[@C.Hawkshaw]

You guys are amazing! When you live way out in the country after a while you realize that either you build it or make it yourself, or it doesn’t happen. That’s one really fun thing about living out in the country! btw, I’ve used both a handsaw and a chainsaw to cut timber bamboo and I found the handsaw easier. Thanks for the new video!

[@heathbecker420]

Beautiful story and beautiful girls. As a father of 3 kids I would be proud of any of them accomplished something like this.

[@sinead2367]

This is absolutely beautiful. Thank you for sharing such an intimate story ❤️❤️❤️

[@plant.3670]

One of the best videos you've ever made. I don't think I took a single breath while watching it ❤️

[@kevinwhite7354]

Nice one vktora xx 👋🌹🌹🌹💋😘

[@lindalou7503]

I really like the music to this video.Do you mind me asking where you girls get your music backgrounds from?And is it music that grew up listening to?I love your channel by the way.You two are such beautful souls and it always makes my day spending a little bit of time in my morning drinking my coffee and watching your videos.💜💗💖💞

[@wild_childofthe80s]

It all fits so perfectly doesn't it!! x x

[@carlsutherland3730]

Very lovely ladies. Keep up the good work. My favorite part was at 3:07 into the video. Thanks again for another great video.

[@samarthagro2275]

Shaking

[@IgorOcash]

makes a huge difference having a skilled carpenter leading the team...

[@andysdestination8671]

I’m so glad I subscribed to your channel. I have to say that your building that you guys renovated is amazing. Is so stunning and beautiful! You guys did a hell of a job! WOW!!! See you guys in the next video. God bless.

[@fordfalcao9061]

Another great video, thanks for sharing. I really like the finished product, enjoy your solitude and joy in the newly adjusted shed. take care.

[@DEEZNUTZ-hr3ti]

ya same

[@pilates21]

You did so well. It looks great! Your dad's so proud of you all!

[@MotherTheMountain]

Aw this is so kind, thank you!!

[@angelgilbaliga5444]

How i wished i could visit there :( Youu girl's are so amazing .. From philippines

[@ericaluna00]

You’ve all worked so hard and the studio came out beautiful. Well done. Your dad would be so proud. 💓

[@coolncrazy8199]

Your farm and the content you produce are making my day better..i have to thank you for that ❤️❤️

[@darwinfloresmora8493]

Q hermoso lugar eso si es vida. Saludos desde costarica y bendiciones. ✌

[@garfield2307]

This is truly inspiring! How much did the whole thing cost? One day I truly hope I can live on a property like yours

[@artemisiak677]

Wow what a transformation. Beautiful space to work. Your dad would be so proud of you. Thank you for sharing your adventures with us. 🧡

[@khurshidahmadsyed53]

It's really so beautiful to watch such a natural beauty and the animals and birds and your sisters or daughters. .they are so beautiful and gracious and very active in playing with them and making your video very beautiful

[@karenroe6270]

What beautiful studio.....and working together as a family priceless. The whole experience was truly a magical thing. Your Dad would be very proud. Have a blessed week 🧚‍♀️💖🌟

[@abdirazakali58]

You may not know how many people you’re inspiring, girls you are amazing, you’re the living proof of your father’s hard work, your father’s legacy is still alive. Keep up the good work.

[@thelittlecountrygal]

What an amazing story. Your work is beautiful and well worth it I’m sure

[@brianazmy3156]

You both have very impressive skills and it shows brilliantly. I hope this video inspires the younger generations for decades to come. This definitely proves that anything is possible through determination and commitment. Maggie almost stole the show. Thank you both for sharing this with us and hope you continue to do so. Stay safe.

[@kennethsmith2952]

It's hurtful to hear you've lost your dad, and I am so sorry. A few days ago I noticed one of your videos and was inspired with the words: Off Grid Daily Life, and began watching, but now I find myself racing home after work to see the next few episode before have to go to bed for the next day. The way you live, is similar to how I lived on a 74 acre farm; mostly wooded, and it was something I have always missed, even now, and so much more after watching your videos. I am extremely impressed with how both of you have made a life in the outback, you are so smart and strong, and the diversity there is very impressive. It's also heart filling to see how you've endured all the obstacles and hardships to keep you dad, or parents dreams and love flourishing and alive. I know its heard, but in the end, you, and maybe your kids, will have a world of memories, dreams fulfilled and to shear, with a legacy to be carried on for many years to come. God bless both of you. Ken.

[@MotherTheMountain]

Hi Ken! So happy that you found our videos and thank you so much for your kind an encouraging words ☺️ best wishes! Julia

[@rhaine5714]

Wooow I really appreciated ur videos, it's motivating me by just watching the nature and ur animals:>

[@MotherTheMountain]

I'm so happy you enjoy them! (and all the cute animals 🐥)

[@carlsutherland3730]

Could you tell us who sings in the background music

[@Richard1944]

Cried tears of joy for you .sorrow for me 76 years wasted I well never know the life you have ,you have made me realised how I have wasted my life. Wishing you all joy and bless you THANK YOU .

[@dariatodor1730]

No life is wasted--you too no doubt have a great story to tell the world. These two have been blessed with a legacy that few of us have in this world but tap into your beauty and greatness.It is there, trust me. We all have gifts.

[@fishglowinthedark5769]

Not if you pass the opportunity for another to do so. Our true inheritance. Thank You.

[@LV12800]

Another remarkable video...they are always magical...and those 3 incredible goats, what joy and mischief all rolled up into one, I would never, ever tire of them...and the sheep...and the duckies...and the land...and all the nature around you...all such a site to behold!!! And we are so blessed that you share it all with us. Great studio reno...loved seeing it all done and complete. ❤🥰❤

[@seanpatrick2052]

The cycle of life goes on,.. onwards and upwards! Tis a honourable and beautiful post.

[@regaladocedillo8722]

I can see the heaven,in your place.

[@joaonereudasilvasilva5673]

Tudo oquei com às meninas jnsilva Juliana Caetano

[@johncourt9580]

Your videos are so beautiful, and your animals are your children, showing unconditional love. Your Dad would be so proud of your amazing achievements.💗💑💗

[@MotherTheMountain]

Thank you -- it's so amazing to care for the animals with so much love, and they always give it straight back 💗💗

[@rebeccastone3301]

Your Dad is proud of you BOTH. Beautiful, Loving, Talented, Patient, Caring, Handy … Artistic

[@mountainfisher4183]

Great job Girls ! 1 Step at a time, when in doubt ask, that's my way of doing things. Ur Both Beautiful smart N self-reliant !

[@lindatohara6438]

You all did such a great job of repurposing stuff. Your dad would be very proud of you ladies. This property is such a blessing in itself. My husband and I built our house it was crazy hard work, it definitely makes it more like a home. The memories start with a rocky lot and are still happening with a grandson now. Love your sisterhood the most I am 1 of 6 sisters no brothers. Aloha from Kona Hawaii.

[@savxgestevenlestrom6164]

LOVELY ! All of you really “ Rock “ and Mom , I know exactly what is like to take care of a son/daughter by yourself . My wife passed away a couple of years ago , but believe me Dad is watching over all of you from the distance . A big “ Bravo “ for your project . Thank You very much .👍🏻👏🙏✌️👋🏻😁❤️. Lots of love from me & my son .

[@selinanguyenofficial7343]

Thích xem clip của bạn. Cảnh đẹp quá

[@shirleyboy8859]

Total respect to you Both.. You have done an amazing job... Always a delight to watch your videos. I always have a tear in my eye when you talk about your Dad.... He would be very proud of you all.... Take care and keep Happy :-))))))) xxxxxxx

[@markssmallengines3542]

Wow your studio has come up fantastic plus is there a best uncle award 😉? He is such a good mentor. Your dad would be extremely proud to have had such tatanted daughters 😃 take care Mark.

[@ranindersingh3383]

I am not Happy with my life.i am tired.Everytime i feel alone in the world.i have no friends.i really want live this life.when i watching Mother The Mountain Farm videos.then i want live a life,like your life.I belong a Farmer family.i find a new hope in your videos.Good to see you.Love from India 🇮🇳

[@lesliel1182]

If you hadn't been naive about the shed, you never would have taken it on. 🤪

[@wild_childofthe80s]

He he! Naivety isn't always a negative is it ;) I know.. I've been there!! x x

[@BadarTVTrends]

Building a personality requires an extra hard struggle

[@franklaferriere5754]

My dad was a cabinet maker. When we moved to the farm there was nothing there. No buildings, no workshop. In 3 months my dad and us 3 boys built a barn, a cabinet shop and the horse stable. That was 45 yrs ago. When he passed the property was sold. The buyers kept everything, changing the cabinet shop into their home. That building will stand for at least 500 yrs the way we built it. I still go by the old place with a smile on my face.

[@lotuselanplus2s]

You both did a wonderful job and your Dad must be so very proud of you , i love your relaxing vids, they give me time to unwind and relax myself, now i'm going out into the garden to rake up the leaves, i have a cherry tree and a mango tree, who knows, maybe this evening i'll take a hammock and put it under the trees and relax, maybe doze off and get some sleep, have the workshop to clean out later on and a friends motorcycle to rebuild too, wishing you a wonderful week ahead.

[@davidswalkersvideos7262]

do you evrepaly fight sisters

[@brya6894]

Great job .bless u all with strength and a great morning and sleep well at night .my goat do as well love when they do the happy run and my 🐑

[@rouruinapataanga9410]

Wooo so cool you’re dad would be so proud you girls have put the finishing touch to the shed adding your own so beautiful respect why can’t my daughters be like you girls hopefully they’ll get around watching your videos

[@billb22]

Another great and amazing video, your studio has come so far with all your hard work and effort. Your dad would be very proud of you and what you girls have accomplished. The artwork is also quite amazing, you girl I’m very talented . A big thank you to your mom and your uncle for helping you achieve your goals.Thanks for another great video looking forward to the next and what adventures to come. Love always, Billy

[@shahrookherani870]

No dad would ask for more, truly blessed 🤗. The goats are like family members. Joyful forever 🙏

[@honestgoat]

You girls are something special. Smart, resourceful, creative and beautiful. I'm certain your dad would be so proud of you both.

[@patrickdevlin7125]

Your father would be very proud of you. Your story really moved me and gave me hope for the future. Thank you for sharing.

[@stephenpalmer5454]

Wow this is incredible Julia and Anastasia!! How high was that waterfall you girls were sitting in? Your dad is so proud. 🙏

[@CJ-fd2vc]

Your father would be very proud of each of you . Great job and thanks for sharing.

[@frankpristov9745]

To Adam and Mum I say watching the 2 young adult children who have such a thirst for learning and wanting to do it themselves finally getting to the point of being to do it themselves is so rewarding well done guys. Those goats and ducks are so entertaining

[@Gulfcamel]

Beautiful video Thanks for sharing

[@MotherTheMountain]

Thank you!

[@vynidalopes251]

Well done Ladies👍 imagine how proud ur dad would have been. I know I am🌺🌺🌺

[@ralphperez3323]

Lady's your father is very proud of you which he is there in spirit and showing you how life is beautiful and amazing. 👍👍👍👍🌻🌻🌻🌻🌻🌻🌻🌻🌻🌻🌻🌻🌻🌻

[@alishahsiddiqui7334]

I'm a carpenter good colour painter deco painter & furniture polisher Your works superb 👌👌👍 I'm live in Karachi Pakistan & like your country Form Abdulqadir siddiqui 😊

[@joeolson6085]

Absolutely beautiful ladies. Your dad is very proud of you. And yes he’s still with you in spirit and always will be. ❤️

[@gil5629]

O vídeo é lindo, mas, quando você fala de seu pai, o vídeo se torna ainda mais emocionante, à propósito, a pintura ficou linda !!! ❤️🇧🇷. The video is beautiful, but when you talk about your father, the video becomes even more exciting, by the way, the painting was beautiful!!!.

[@ThydaCookingTV]

Sad to here your dad passed away so young!

[@mystermysterio5348]

Nature is beautiful ... Live Free ... Stress, problem, trouble and worry free ... You start to live a natural healthy life. Healing the mind and the body. 💚🌱🪨🌊🪵🏞️🌄

[@seektruth8662]

Your videos are therapy

[@katefreeman7641]

I love seeing artists at work! Thanks for sharing the process. Your studio has so much soul.

[@theartofflying3580]

6:05 i'm sorry... I know... Australia... but WHAT THE HELL IS THAT?!! (on the extinguisher lol)

[@marzcowboyofuranus3937]

I'm going to blame the moon's extra wobble for the extra ebb and flow in my eyes. This is beautiful. 😭💕

[@wild_childofthe80s]

Aww x x

[@jejomarvillacillo5024]

Amazing way of living far from the city,i wish i could have like this way of living in The philippines when i start my vlog and everyone welcome to the place for free and take enjoy theire VACATION specialy other nationality🙏🙏👍

[@keirenhood5373]

Great work girls ,Love this vid very nice to watch.

[@hollydyer8992]

What a beautiful space 😍 you should be so proud! Absolutely lovely 😊

[@dudleyfoster8263]

Awesome ---Nature is what I love----Is there any BAMBOO there, good for building very versatile

[@fasx56]

Your Video Title mentions a Rainforest that you live in. What is the name of the country where you live, and what do you do for a living and Income, do you work nearby. You have taken on this large building project, hope it turns out well for you, admire your courage and determination.

[@brettmcandrew-jenkins6021]

OMG I'm on the verge of attempting to live that life on my own!!!!! Plz can I come live, learn and love with your community even if just for a limited amount of time!!!?????

[@diegogal8462]

We are blessed with your sharing of love 💗🙏

[@duaneholcomb8408]

I'm mountian people but just as you we learned to build things and the importance of helping your niehbor albeit far way at times. Learning from,nature,, and loving a simple life. And always thanking the creatore and mother earth for life and what we have. On this earth

[@hubertnicolas8020]

It's quit emotional this video. God bless your father, and you, and your mother. From the place he is now he must be so proud to see everything you have done. Your kindness and your creativity is a gift and I wish you a happy and great live

[@khangvu8759]

You two are so fantastic ! What a remarkable life you have.

[@dakotaovdan]

Learning how to build is a beautiful way to honor your father ❤️ beautiful video as always

[@MotherTheMountain]

Thank you, this is so kind ❤️❤️

[@johndayan7126]

This may be my favorite video so far. But that's generally what I think about every new video. Brilliant, meaningful, relaxing, and fun. Thank you so much!

[@mikescorpio13]

enough bs youre here for the every 5 minutes butt shots right

[@phantomvox951]

Im a country guy who moved to the city at the age of 27. I remember the first couple of months how difficult was adapting to city noise. 20 years later I dream to return to the forest and live a simple life again.

[@lilaclemonade686]

You guys are amazing and blessed! Your dad would be soo proud.

[@onlyvoid]

Sure i would gladly live in the wilds with 2 such good looking young females. We would have a plentyful and numerous community in no time, my new empire.

[@kennethhopson7087]

I don't know you and your sister and mom, but I'm really proud of you. I hope that I can keep watching your videos.