Easy Way IS NOT always the Best Way

[@kipcudd7253]

I was forced into retirement at 58 due to heart issues and me being a truck driver for 15 years, which I know didn't help my health issues, diabetes also. I was raised farming so always outside, cattle, irrigating the crops, 1200 acres and an only child. Loved it. Always loved just being busy. Still do. But when your health goes down hill you're very limited on what you can do. Since 2001 I've rearranged, reorganized my shop 3 times. I've had 4 compact tractors and loved getting on the tractor, dirtwork , brushoging, tilling gardens, fixing driveways, etc. Then after my first heart attack in 2013 lost my CDL because of medications I had to take and my cardiologist wanted me to quit doing tractor work. Sold my tractor and all my attachments, worst mistake I've ever did. All I can say is try to stay as active as you can even if it kills you, the depression is not fun, I'm 67 and now I've got kidney problems. I've had a quadruple bypass surgery, don't have the air capacity I used to, can't handle heat or cold anymore. This has been my experience since 2013. Stay busy and take care of your body.

[@dannyschoonover1420]

Mike I think you have a new way to speak your mind. “FIRESIDE CHATS WITH MIKE.” Never doubt what you have to say as you are a wealth of knowledge. As for retirement I am 68 and have been working daily enjoying life, that my work life didn’t always allow for. Keep up your good work ethics and you are truly very organized. Anyone who questions that has to look in the mirror first.

[@jolanni7]

I was just watching Mike's video on tv and when I got to probably the same part you did, I reach for the laptop to comment and read yours. Now I'm not writing Mike, you did it for me. Of course everyone is different but we had a small place, some out buildings, a few turkeys. I worked the trades but loved working around the place, firewood, removing snow, lots of yard work. Always piles of leaves, piles of snow, long driveway on a hill that had to keep clear because an emergency vehile would never get up there. We had motorcycles, boats, dogs, always something to do, The big shed was heated with a small kitchen. When I went out to work, I stayed out for the day sometimes til after dark. Always something to do and would make a job up if t got slow or was caught up. I retired, 6 months later had a big heart attack. Started thinking, what if I go, my wife will not be able to continue here. We sold everything, toys, tractor, a lifetime of tools. Went to a condo. 5 years later, I am over 70 and have slowly acquired a few toys, another boat and most of the tools we just sold as my health improved. Long road. All in a small warehouse we own, 15 miles away. I miss just being able to get up and go outside my door and work on something on the property. I'm looking at tractors all the time, maybe to dig a hole, move some snow, Toss the compost pile then have a beer in the shed or two looking at the fire. Loved working out there freezing my nuts off and would give my right nut to have never have given that life up for a million years. I know why Mike is always doing something, because he never quite finishes a job. Maybe 99% so he can always have some work to do. That is what I did anyway. You can put me in the unorganised category, but in the chaos, everything is in its place and I know where I can find what I'm looking for, what can wait, what needs to be done now. I can't have just one job.

[@jasongrace793]

I'm dealing with same problems not as bad as you yet..I'm 43 if you need anything I'm here for you...your story breaks my heart... Hopefully you can have a good Holiday season....God Bless You Sir... Sincerely Jason

[@kipcudd7253]

@@jasongrace793 mine started at 58 when I had my first heart attack. Not many have lived long on my mother's side of the family.

[@bhuckaby6035]

Thank u

[@BellewB50]

The rocking chair is the gateway to Heaven. I'm with you Mike, keep on keeping on !

[@Fulltimer]

Mike, Y'all are doing a great job. Some people would complain if they won the lottery. Those people we all ignore. We enjoy watching and hope you continue for years to come. Thanks for sharing.

[@1958johndeere620]

I don't actively do youtube videos because the " internet experts " would drive me nuts. You guys earned it, enjoy all the stuff. What you do is a ton of work.

[@BirdYoumans]

I was a music man all my life and like you, the first few years always broke. And like you, once I found a foothold so to speak, I've always liked being busy. I so understand the drive. I'm about to be 78 and tho I've slowed considerably this last year, I still like staying busy. But now it's more mental work like youtube vids and new music and not so much physical, but I still have to do something. So I relate to what you are saying. And I think you've done an incredible job organizing your wood yard. It's been fun to watch! There will always be people who would do it differently. And I say to them, you go ahead and do yours your way, and I'll do mine my way. And indeed it is easier to stay organized if you don't do much lol! I have certain "piles" that are highly organized and there are other "piles" that are, shall we say, a work in progress. It's an ongoing process. I enjoy your channel.

[@jimshoe6828]

Hi Mike As I listen to you talk about a messy desk and not being super organized, I am reminded of a sign someone made for me and my messy desk "If a cluttered desk is the sign of a cluttered mind, what is the sign of an empty desk?" Stay busy, there will be time for organizing later👍👍

[@tjt1992]

I am 68 years old and I have learned over the years to “ Work Smarter Not Harder” I have been blessed with good health, but there are things I can’t physically do and I have been blessed where I can hire things done and it’s easier to write a check than to do the work!

[@mikeszwec9551]

I kinda like the fireside chat. I always like hear about people that overcome their struggles (whatever they maybe) and find themselves in a wonderful place.

[@Hunter-ym2kk]

i paid into SS for 53 years. We retired. we are seeing the 10 grandkids, 2 great grands, hunting, and lots of sightseeing.. i hunt and fish about 10 weeks each year.. we are loving it.. no day is the same..

[@garycarpenter8343]

There’s nothing wrong with going over with what you do. It creates new ideas and sometimes improves productivity. You see new ways to do things. Later on with tasks as the farm animals more input from rest of the family. Y’all Have a Day!

[@ronkolacek9645]

Yeah Mike I didn't mean anything nasty by my comment..I'm just very organized...it pains me to see you moving things two and three times...thank you for the kind response...I enjoy your channel very much... Merry Christmas to you and your family......

[@harrykeel8557]

The end part of the video was really nice, kind of a fireside chat feeling. Y'all have a great time.

[@MrWirebrain]

Mike, I have a Lotta respect for you. You do it your way, I do it my way and neither one of us is wrong. Mike, Melissa and family have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Joe

[@rogerbamatutz1927]

I like to be organized. Your 56, I'm 76. I found that with age comes time when one lightens up some. I clean stuff up get look'n good and 2-3 weeks later it's messy again. I like to have tools organized so when I want something its where I left it. I just don't know why people comment on how you/anyone runs their life. If they have a different way, great. If you have a special way for yourself, that's good too. Life has oodles of good/bad, happy/sad. Why the hell make an issue out of someone else's way of doing things. Merry Christmas! I'm waiting to see how that snow blower works.

[@PurpleCollarLife]

We had that ice just north of you. It was a mess. Keep up the hard work. If you enjoy it and it seems to keep you young.

[@MaynardFamilyHomestead]

I can’t wait until I can get to the point you are at. It does require a ton of work, and we only get to see the glamorous results of your hard work. Thanks for another great video sir!

[@wyattearp1418]

Enjoyed the “Talk By The Fire”. Its always great to hear from you. It feels like you put us more on the board. Great Video.

[@jerredworks8]

Mike I am 33 years old and I admire you and look up to you for inspiration. Please don’t change a thing keep doing what your doing👍🏻

[@chuckstimson9029]

Good morning, I also can confirm that either way will produce more than satisfactory results. Polyurethane is self-leveling therefore when you brush it flattens out. The same way the brush marks disappear. A tip I use is I take a nail punch and make some holes around the lip of the can so what you brush off drip back into the can. Also make is easier to put the lid on as gives the air and any poly that's in there someplace to go. My wife also confirms that we both have something in common as I always am outside doing something and making more work for myself. Heading there now to finish putting up a small woodshed to keep my IBC totes of firewood dry. My favorite saying is, idle hands are the devils workshop!

[@JREASTSIR]

Mike, I'm now 81 yrs. old and still work designing building here in Texas. I started this career in 1966 and have grown to know and love the challenge. I'm thinking of giving up and retiring to do some wood working, as i have a hobby shop and tools to work with. I enjoy watching your videos and keep up with your activities.

[@georgestowe80]

I retired at 62 due to health problems. (83 now). When I am tired I sleep. When I am up I try to keep busy. I always feel like there is something I can be doing. Have hobbies, bowl, and work around the yard. I mow and plow the church next door, and my property, Approx. 6 acres. Love my tractor (B2601 Kubota) Had two large oak trees taken down, called a logger. He said I could get more out of it in firewood rather than lumber. Luckily, I have three sons that help a lot. Just rambling here, but wanted you to know my way of keeping busy. Really enjoy your videos, please keep them coming. Merry Christmas to you and yours.

[@yvesjolicoeur747]

Just keep on trucking. I am always amazed as to how much Melissa and you can get accomplished. Don't change

[@alittleofthisandalittleofthat]

They say… “you stop you drop”. Keep moving and keep inspiring people like me. You know what your doing. 💐👍

[@waynechaffee2138]

Mike, I marvel at how industrious you folks are. I love to "go along for the ride" as you guys do your thing. I am glad you endeavor to be independent like you do. Double thumbs up.

[@johnfulmer9255]

You got me thinking about when the tv would go off the air and the yule log would start playing on the television, thanks for the memories!

[@D70340]

God bless you Mike. Go as long as you can. I became physically disabled 4 years ago, lost my job, forced into disability retirement. I can no longer do anything. Even making a cup of coffee is a hard task for me now. Its very hard to sit and watch everything you`ve worked so hard for all your life, just disappear out from under you day by day. I always wonder what the next day will bring. My life, before i became disabled, was alot like yours. Always busy doing things outside. Now all i can do, is look out the window and watch life move on from there, and still try to keep the faith.

[@CCFBNY-u4q]

I'm with you have to be doing something as a volunteer in many organization I have plenty to do but beige organized is another story! Watching your vids help me relax!

[@ketiltokstad7458]

Hey. I tell you about the bobbels. Those come from you are using your brush to flat to the surface. Use your brush more vertical and let the brush gently float on the surface with just no pressure. If you do that, the hairs on the brush will suck out the air from the bobbels. Just a hint from me Ketil Tokstad in Norway

[@JustAFlyover]

Love the fireside chat! You are all salt of the earth people! May God bless all of you.

[@williamconway1287]

As to the “ Get organized “ remark . I’ve always lived by the attitude of “It is what it is “ . Also “ It gets done when it get’s done “ ! You keep doing what you’re doing !

[@leerunyon]

I lost my wife a couple of years ago after 56 yrs. I'm not suppose to realize it but two of my brothers approached me about buying some land 100 mi N and building a deer camp/get away location. They figured I need something to do. It worked. It's lonely after all those years and the family is all going their separate ways-college, mission work new jobs etc' We bought 52+ A. a year ago I I think I have spent almost every wkend up there. Don't mind the drive and so far put in electric, well, water lines to 6 RV sites and 2 cabin site and a 2500 gal. septic system. Internet goes in this week, I purchased a 12 by 28' barn style shed and am finishing it to be 4 season place. Bought a JD 26G excavator, Ford 8N tractor with a bunch of attachments and a 570 Ranger. Surrounded by great neighbors and we trade equipment and work back and forth. This is a long way of saying that If I didn't have this place to go to and be constantly thinking about what I want to do there, I would be either going crazy or after 79 yrs be sitting around feeling sorry for my self.

[@jrbrumley9334]

Mike, I am 77.5 years old and retired at 66 years old after working for nearly 43 years for the same communication company and the last many years 14 to 18 hours per day and loving it. We live on a small acreage (13.5 acres) and have a couple of horses that we have ridden in many States. I travel sometimes and ride my UTV Polaris Ranger 900XP. I have ridden in Wisconsin, Iowa, South Dakota, Arkansas, and West Virginia and loved each place that I have ridden. I have a 50'X80' by 16' sidewalls with a 12'X50' open lean. It is a combination horse barn and shop. I have a hundred things I can do and occasionally I get to work on some of them. I am totally unorganized and I love it! It does get a little discouraging when I can't find something I am looking for but if it gets really serious all I have to do is go buy another thing that I am looking for and the one that I misplaced will show up almost immediately, LOL!!! You are far from unorganized and have many irons in the fire and I think it is fantastic. I really enjoy being able to be working on one thing and if I get a little tired of doing that one thing I just change to doing something else. Of course, now I only work about three, four, or five hours a day and then hit the easy chair. But then I usually have the TV on, along with my laptop, and quite possibly have my phone in my hand. It is really hard to "quiet down" after hitting it hard for so many years. The thing is that I can just do what I want and don't really concern myself with what anyone thinks about my disorganization. Keep up the great work and I really enjoy your videos. J.R.

[@waynebarnett7467]

30 degrees and snowing here in north east Ohio. Keep doing what you do Mike. That’s what I love about your channel. Wayne in Ohio.

[@ericglaude4953]

I couldn’t agree with your philosophy about staying busy and accomplishing something always. It’s not for all but I know when I retire in a few years, I’m 54 now, there will not be a dull moment other than on days where my body just won’t get going like I need it to. That will be the beauty of retirement for me, not having to hurry up on everything I do just to get to work on Monday. You know the feeling more than anyone. Side note, the cedar fire starter is fantastic and will be getting more. Nice of you to wait for he “West Coast” to get out of bed, but where I’m from we have a saying for that, “bless your heart”. ;) So the problem I have with the fire starter being used faster than I want is it getting used indoors more that where it should and that is building my fires. It’s being used as an air freshener in the house and it just smells awesome. I guess I’ll get it back for my fires someday, but for now, just a little shake of the the basket or “diffuser”, looks like a thin sock, that the fire starter and you just can’t beat that scent, at least for us. Looking forward to another 5# bag, and I’m heading out to split some wood on this cold damp day. Take care Morgans and Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

[@charlesfoleysr6610]

A friend and I refinished the hardwood flooring in his dining room. We both worked second shift and did the refinish after hours. The night we put the eurathane on, we also worked on a fifth of Jim Beam. We finished up about 4:30 am. At 8 am I got a call from my friend, that I needed to come right over and see the floor. Immediately I started thinking we had really messed it up. I never mix drinking and working. When I got there he brought me in through the kitchen. The floor looked great. Till you looked to where the varnish can sat. There was not one drip or splash anywhere around that can. The floor was perfectly clean. Now how would anyone expect a couple of tired drunks to accomplish that, I'll never figure out. The floor needed a second coat anyway so our fupa was covered up and his wife never knew. No drinking for the second coat.

[@profdave2861]

I’m really surprised the dealership delivered your tractor without the rear tires pre-loaded. Most dealers in my area won’t sell compact tractors without the rear tires being loaded when they leave the dealership. I can’t think of any negatives of loading the rear tires (other than maybe trailering weight) but there sure are lots of positives for both traction and safety! PS. Given what you, Melissa, and family have on the go, I think you are very well organized! Comments like that remind me of a few people I have worked with over the years that are crazily obsessive about a clean desk. It’s hard to get any work done if your desk is always clean - same thing in the shop and woodyard! Even at the end of the day, leaving some files out on a desk or equipment in place in the shop or woodyard makes it much more efficient to get started the next day!

[@ritchiechristopher5603]

Like you I like to be busy and have a plan for each day and the tasks I need to or want to complete. I retired at 57 and I can tell you time flys by - keep doing what you are doing - like the vids.

[@stevencjones5236]

Mike... I so admire your willingness and drive to DO! You're organized in your mind... what to do first, then next, then next... on the fly, real-time organized thought! It works well for you! LOVE what you're doing with the pine siding... staining and varnishing it, then installing it. Deliberate, patient and steadfast. Gonna be beautiful when completed.

[@terrygroce1594]

Hot fire. Moisture coming out. I like the mix on videos. I like all your videos. You are easy to watch and interesting to listen to comments and suggests. Keep up the great job. I love you mention your family time. It is important and you make it clear your a family man. Proud to be part of this journey you are taking us on.

[@Sellarmusic]

I've always found that it's usually the people who do nothing that have the time to criticize the people who are always busy. Pay no attention and keep doing what makes you happy. You have a great family and channel.

[@moniquemelanson1114]

Merry Christmas (from NB Canada) You speak the truth. You are leaving a legacy. Do not change and keep the projects coming.

[@Srhsbmet]

I’m exactly like you. I retired 8 months ago and I can’t stand not doing something constantly. I’ve got a project book that my wife and I both write things to do in. As I finish one project, 2 more takes its place. I’m not complaining. I really enjoy it. Retirement is the best job I’ve ever had!

[@raymondstanding7931]

Hard work is very rewarding. I have always been like you. I can’t sit still and don’t like to. I always regret not getting something done by the end of the day. I think it’s a good thing to always keep busy as long as it doesn’t become stressful and start affecting your health or family. Keep up the good work! You are an inspiration. All your hard work motivates me to try to do more.

[@nctplarry]

Mike, just a single point I'd like to make in support of what you're doing: Yeah, you may be really busy doing this and doing that, but....one major benefit of all that work, I believe, is that as you're doing that, some viewers of your channel may be thinking about doing something similar. So, as you work your magic, you're actually teaching lots more folks than you may even stop to think about. The benefit of your "busyness" is very positive and helps countless people. So, bottom line...just keep it up and keep inspiring throngs of us!

[@rogerhiggins7438]

Just watched this video and I loaded a tractor on a trailer like you have that has no ramp supports, the tractor was an old 8N Ford. I was parked in an orchard that was slightly down hill. When the tractor was almost on the trailer the weight of the tractor lifted the rear wheels of my Dodge pickup and while I was sitting on the tractor, the truck started to roll and it didn't stop until it jackknifed. Just an FYI, I'd hater to see you hurt. I wasn't hurt but that will give you religion. Watch your show all the time, say Hi to the family and Hunter. You are good people. (Because you ask where people are from, I'm a retired police motorcycle sergeant from Southern California with 33 years on the job. Retired to my home state in Maine).

[@EyesOnlyTeam86]

7:45 Mike, just like epoxy pours, a light brush of a torch will pop the bubbles. Another tip......On the female groove of any paint type can, take a small punch or awl and poke 3-4 holes evenly around the bottom of the female groove. This will allow any product you've scraped off the brush to drip back in the can. And need not too worry about air exposure if you need to store a partial can...... when you replace the can lid, the lid naturally sits in the female groove and will seal the can like normal and even seal the new holes in the groove.

[@nathanchilcott6723]

Thx Mike, interesting video. Life is about enjoyment & fulfillment. You & the family seem to have both of those qualities. I think this is what attracts me to watching your channel. Seeing your fulfillment & enjoyment in keeping busy & me adapting those principles in my life helps me to think about different ways do things in my life & gain enjoyment & fulfilment. THX Mike & family

[@dougsmith9099]

Some people would complain if there ice cream was cold.keep doing what you do mike always enjoy the vidieos thanks for your time

[@garylanier5210]

Loved the "fireside" chat! Reminds me of the time when that's how a president would talk to the country.

[@davidhaskins9457]

Everyone marches to a different drummer, we do what we can when we can. I do some sitting at watching TV with my wife that had a stroke 4 yrs ago and still recovering, I love food plotting and yard work we worked hard for 40 plus years raising a family building our home and life together. It is now my turn to take care of her, my hope she gets back to crocheting. Just because we're not as busy as you guys we are enjoying retirement, love you guys and keep bringing out the very entertaining videos

[@Mustang-tt3zt]

Just love the pine wood complements the inside awesome choice

[@jimmieusaf-pol5818]

Hi Mike, I have found that running a fan across boards after applying finish helps them to dry faster, if the dust in there isn't too bad and you need them to dry a couple of hours sooner, if the time comes you'd like to finish them and get them up sooner. Happy Holidays, you all be safe, and Have a Day!

[@htdriggers]

Always heard that "The sign of Genius is a cluttered desk". At least that what I was told each time someone looked at mine. Like you say, we are all different and we can thank God for that, otherwise think how boring humans would be. I retired at 57 and I am 82 now. Have worked harder since retirement. Love staying busy and helping others. Howard

[@OldVermontGuy]

Greetings from No. VT - As a lifelong furniture refinisher, I can confidently say that scrapping brush on edge, versus not, is not really an issue if you apply it with a brush like you are doing. You are doing a great job because you are not in a hurry. Keep up the good work (paneling and videos)!

[@davidingram353]

Love the hot stove chat Mike. You are not at the full retirement stage yet. Like me you have lots on the go and I like it. Just recovering from hip surgery and I was going stir crazy. I realized that recovery is current job and that is helping. You do you and keep going.

[@peterwilliams2824]

Your kind a like FDR’s fireside chat…..I liked it too

[@edwardbickford4666]

Great episode. Love the sitting by the fireplace and telling your story. Much admiration for how hard you work at everything. I enjoy your quality entertainment. Got to say never a dull moment at the Morgan house!

[@turnertruckandtractor]

Like the fireside chat Mike. You and your family are doing it right.

[@johnnyfrazier4964]

If it's what you enjoy then keep it going, I was that way always finding something to do or helping friends out,then in 2020 sickness set in and disabled me,never dreamed I would be retired at 52 and 55 now and about everything I can do I do from a seat, can't stand or walk for more than about 5 minutes at a time,but watching you and other channels have been a blessing,so stay busy,find more things to do and Thank You.

[@fordboss9275]

Mike, so glad to hear you say you don’t let those comments bother you! Everybody has their own way, in my opinion the one who left a comment about you not being organized, somethings wrong with you, it’s just a jealous guy!

[@duffyd4907]

Good Morning from Westover WV. You're doing fine, Mike Morgan. People will likely more criticize than give you praise. It's human nature. You have lots going on and it's your life. Enjoy! I'm envious!

[@billshanks1419]

Heavy wet snow in Boonville, NY. That kept me busy for a bit. Keep up the good work!

[@giuseppecerasi6088]

Mike keep doing what you’re doing. If it works for you, which it looks like it does, who care about the negative comments. Keep moving forward.

[@pattyberan4523]

We love your family and your channel! You're so inspiring!Loved the "fireside chat"! I better go organize my desk now!

[@bruushbuster50]

Mike, I love your channel and I wish I had more property like you. It's addicting watching you use your equipment and you are very good at using all of the machinery. You got me hooked and I went to visit the nearby Kubota dealer in Duluth MN.I got quote on LX2610 and a L2501. I just have an acre of property but will be using it for snow removal (which we have received a lot this year) some dirt work, tree removal and landscaping. I'm leaning towards the LX2610 as it's more deluxe with the control layout and will be easier on the yard. I will also be helping a neighbor clean up 5 acres he just purchased to make trails as well as firewood for both of us. I'm 72 and semi retired. I'm like you Mike, I feel i need to accomplish something everyday or feel it was a waisted day if I don't. When I wake in the morning I open the shade and thank the Lord for another day and for my good health. Take care and keep the great videos coming.

[@jeffrussell2337]

Everybody needs to do there on thing for retirement. Easy is not always the best way. I love what you do and an inspiration to me. I am retired and do not like to sit around either.

[@marcelrobert9178]

I get it. At 73 yrs of age still cutting and splitting wood. Diggin trails with excavator. Enjoying retirement. Merry Christmas.

[@patriotallen9717]

Im retired but dont stay busy all the time. The property has a number of buildings and shops, but I have kids still at home. They are constantly using tools and equipment and not putting things back in its place. Frustrating so learning how to relax! Plus Im glad the kids have the interest in working with their hands!

[@Jeff-zk6dk]

Keep doing what you are doing Mike you built a great life and make great videos for all of us to follow also gives me motivation and ideas so thanks for sharing

[@charlessabinjr7661]

As someone from Idaho, I thank you for thinking of us.

[@mikejennings838]

We lived in Montgomery County PA (Schwenskville) for 10 years. The Fire, EMS and Police always did a "Santa Run" through the township with Santa and his team handing out candy canes. Our kids loved it- they are now 24 and 22 and speak gratefully for the visit. Sorry it bothered Hunter.

[@joesixpack8305]

I'm 7 years older than you, Mike and I'm most definitely slowing down. No question about it. Healthy as a horse but muscles breaking down. Melissa could probably beat me up nowadays. My advice as you prioritize projects around the homestead is to give lots of weight to those projects that are intended to make it easier on your body (e.g., your wood yard process). Leave the other projects that are less taxing on your body for the out years. Last thing you want to do is wake up one day and say you can't do jobs that really need to be done. Onward, Friend!

[@robertfakler8564]

A good indication of how busy someone is, can be seen on their Christmas letters. Some people have nothing to say except what their adult kids have done. They obviously haven't done anything worth mentioning all year. Like you, I'm always busy at 83, and run out of space on my Christmas letter to try to get everything in that I've done. Keeping 40 acres, a rental house, a big garden, and countless projects take more time than I can find.

[@markbrown9838]

Mike, liked the Fireside Chat. Maybe try to do that every now and then. It was informative and something about that fire is very calming.

[@Doug970]

I really appreciate you guys. Look forward to watching your videos every day and you guys have helped me grow a lot over the years of watching you guys. Thank you

[@olddawgdreaming5715]

Great chat session Mike, first time I can remember seeing you totally relaxed. Sure glad all of your endeavors are going your way. You all stay safe and keep up the great videos, everything is looking good around there. Tell everyone hello and enjoy the time you all can share together this Holiday Season. Fred.

[@virgilviereckjr.6881]

Hey Mike, Thanks for sharing. Take care, & have a great day.

[@jimsuesmart]

Great fireside chat, Mike! We enjoy hearing your stories and commentary. You and Melissa have lots of practical advice.

[@paulandreassen9964]

I’ve never found any real value in easy! Work and being productive gives a sense of accomplishment and self worth. I find it interesting that someone is judging you for not being organized, it’s all perspective in my opinion. You are more organized than a lot of us and maybe less so than some. “Judge not lest ye be judged”. I think goats would be a great addition to the family.

[@jeffjohansen4945]

My wife and I love all your videos! We enjoy everything you and your family do. How about a video that shows what Levi does in an average day. 🇺🇸

[@sneezeacres5240]

Agree when I started my channel two years ago learned right away that there are those who have to find a problem with anything I do …I don’t comment to those I do what I do because I do what I do. My way is my way your way is your way. Kinda like the discussion I had with a guy at church. I told him we both are on a journey to heaven his road may be smooth but my road may have cliffs and bumps but still striving to the same goal. Good video

[@gtuttle4]

Mike, you are not disorganize, you are doing exactly what you want to do, when you want to! I'm retired and I have so many projects going on that there is no way I will ever finish them all. But when I get up in the morning, I do what I feel like doing, not what I have to do! Keep doing you what you want to do and let us go alone for the ride! Great videos!

[@johnsandell4501]

Ramble on! Great to hear your thoughts and continued successes!

[@uberuser1999]

Nice fireside chat, Mike. I mentioned it before but I think it’s worth saying again. In my 67 years, I have come to learn that most negative comments come from people who are overtly (or secretly) jealous. Almost to a person. Not sure if the person who commented that things are messy or disorganized was being snarky or just making a casual observation but I wouldn’t ever let it bother me. Keep on keeping on. I know the overwhelming majority of us enjoy all you do and appreciate not only learning things but sharing in bits of your family life. Merry Christmas to you and your family and best wishes for a busy, prosperous and fun New Year!

[@fredskill1510]

Mike i don't comment often I think the last time was to suggest that stacking those totes full of split firewood along the side of the new pavilion would keep snow from drifting into the area. But since there hasn't been any snow it is a mute point. I enjoy your KZbin channel and your fireside chats are welcome as well and the go and do types of things. An 8 x 8 hunting sight that could be built at the home location and then stacked on the trailer and assemble at the new site so you would have a place to camp while you visit and also a place to store things under it as it would be 8 feet in the air on four posts like your home hunting blind. I just enjoy you being you.

[@TheSnakeman3]

I like the long talks. Keeps me up to date on the going’s on at the Morgan’s.

[@jangrahame4891]

Once you have finished building your shop out, and the winter makes working outside impossible, then is the time for indoor stuff like organizing your tools. A guy had to take time to hunt, grade 2 properties, take care of driveways for yourself and family, finish log getting from the neighbor's. Work the woodlot. Pack orders etc. A smart fella would hire that guy from down the road with the pretty shop to help set up his shop when the time comes. Your woodlot shed is looking well organized and great already! A special 👋 2 Hunter!

[@indyfastal]

When I retired, I took up woodworking. My shop/garage is neat & tools are organized. I do small projects to keep busy, like now I'm making new birdhouses for the spring. After all those years in the military, you just can't tolerate anything to be out of place...

[@barryd.thomassr.9156]

Great video, just sit and update us on your ideas and plans! THX

[@chrismorgan6898]

Do what works for you and your family. Do not worry or concern yourself with the thoughts of others, especially the negative ones. No one can please everyone. To you and your family, have a Very Merry Christmas.

[@terrygroce1594]

I enjoyed your fireside chat. I think ii is funny that there is always someone who thinks they are better at something or more knowledgeable or more etc. I believe you handle everyday life real well. If you lived out on a farm or a property like you live on there is always something to do. That is the fun part of being a hard worker and driven. I enjoy your videos and hope you will continue to share this journey with us. Love it.

[@Gwalker0220]

Mike you spoiled my comment... I was going to say an organized garage is not a busy garage... Mine is always a mess. Your doing great. Hard work pays off and your example is great... My daughter is autistic and that video brought tears to eyes.. That hasn't happened in twenty years or more... She is twelve... Hard but rewarding. She is amazing....

[@rad7965]

FDR had fireside chats during troubled times, so I guess it's your turn. Love watching the fire burn. I worked for 47 years before I retired. Lot of years being poor, but we survive and raised two children. For those who never served in the military, I served 23 years and those times, until Reagen was elected president, were the toughest years. You didn't join the military for the money, there was none to speak of. Great video and I never miss any. Keep up the good work, the building is looking good.

[@marcellauzon9883]

I can relate to your being busy! I'm in my late seventies and still keep busy on the farm.

[@jeffhuffman5433]

Mike I see you as being pretty organized like the way you handle problems and the way you go about getting things done I don't comment often I really enjoy watching what you do and you have given me a lot of good ideas keep up the good work

[@gtbproductions1]

I am with you Mike as far as staying active/busy. I just turned 68 two weeks ago, mentally I feel 34, physically I'm great except for my right hip and knee. I can't sit around and do nothing. I know what you mean by being bored. I live in northern San Diego County. I still cut and hand split Eucalyptus. If you know anything about Eucs, they are very HARD and STRINGY. Try splitting a round by hand when fresh cut and the ax just bounces off. Smaller diameter up to about 8" will split with a little help. So I let the larger ones season for a year or two. (10" - 24+") Then when they have some really good checkmarks in them I can use a splitting wedge and pound away. With the larger ones I'll pound away with 20 - 30 swings before the wedge makes it through. The other way is to just start splitting on the edges and take small slices off. Either way it is very hard to do but I really enjoy it. Been following and liking your videos for around a year and a half. Never miss a video, first time commenting. Blessings to you and your lovely family. ✝

[@laurpaqu]

I just retired at the end of August after 31 years in education. Grew up on a farm as a kid and now doing firewood full time. I feel great and most of the stress is now gone. I'm a couple of years younger than you and have no intention of slowing down anytime soon. Keep up the great work my friend and I agree 100% that "easier is not always better". Thanks for sharing.

[@marcykinsey92]

I was always told bubbles were a product of the swish swish of the brush. I love the color and the way you hung it in the garage area.

[@fmeach7711]

Oh Mike, you not organized? You have so much going on, just because you don't finish everything right then doesn't mean you aren't organized. I remember years ago there was a project we were helping with. Several of us younger folks (that was many years ago) jumped in and started . There was an older Gentleman helping that was slower but steady. At the end of the day he had outworked all of us younger bucks. Slow & Steady, works every time. I always enjoy what you have going on. Mike you & Melissa have alot to be proud of for what you Melissa have accomplished so far. My wife is fixing to retire and hopefully I will not be far behind. Have a day.

[@paulneuman2303]

I like how you do things if you are content with your system. Keep to your game plan. You have a nice and enjoyable family. God Bless of all you from central Kansas.