Q+A on SOBRIETY, marriage, living with covid & PLANTS!!

[@paxleidig5327]

WOW. All jokes aside Dave - well done! Your most powerful and moving episode yet! Way to put yourself out there, brother! You are making a difference in more than just the Hoya community. All the best from SC.

[@soberplantguy]

Thank you, pax, really appreciate the kind words ☺

[@helenesolomon]

Oh Dave, people want to know about you because you are charming, kind, and tell your truth. As you know I have 27 years clean and the thing that made me check out your channel was the title. Thank you for sharing so honestly your experience, strength, and hope. While I was attracted to your channel's title, I did not know we also had brain problems. 13 years ago I suffered a Traumatic Brain Injury. It robbed me of a career I adored helping people like me who had mental illness and addiction issues. I could not tell people apart in groups, I could not type, and anything that involved spatial relationships was impossible. Through hard work and effort, it has gotten better, but not enough for me to resume work (I tell people I'm retired because as you said most people cannot understand.) Having said all that (TMI?) I am one of the happiest people I know. Despite great pain and sorrow, recovery has given me blessings beyond belief. One of them is a hobby that brings me great joy. I learn a lot from you and have implemented some of your practices with great success. Heres' to the future. Thank you for everything.

[@soberplantguy]

What a thoughtful reply. Perseverance is highly underrated, difficult, yes, but what's the alternative? Give up? Sit around and feel sorry for yourself? No thank you, not with the one life I have on this earth. Sounds like we a reading from the same page 😊

[@hanstera_deliciosa]

@@helenesolomon Wow. I hope you have an amazing day. You’re beautiful

[@hanstera_deliciosa]

@@soberplantguy You’re beautiful too

[@soberplantguy]

@@hanstera_deliciosa We're getting closer.......

[@hanstera_deliciosa]

@@soberplantguy 😆

[@leannhillier-jv8wf]

Wow Dave! Congratulations on everything you have accomplished! Sobriety, long Covid, growing beautiful plants and loving marriage! You should be very proud. Not a lot of people could do one thing let alone all. Congratulations to you!💙❤️🩵💜💙

[@soberplantguy]

Thank you! I have had a lot of help along the way 😊

[@plantybynature]

Congratulations 🎉 on your sobriety. It’s absolutely the best decision I’ve made for myself and my family. I cannot believe I lived in absolute darkness I did and the length of time that I wasted is embarrassing. I’m gratefully living every day and thoroughly enjoying my healthy ‘addiction’ to plants these days.

[@soberplantguy]

Remembering when you wondered how you'd ever enjoy anything, ever again?? Who knew that life would actually break wide open for us 😊

[@gailburrus7575]

Congratulations on your sobriety. That is a wonderful thing that you have been able to put alcohol in your past. Wishing you all the best in your future. P.S. Watching your channel has definitely peaked my interest in Hoya! I only have one right now, but I plan on looking for another one soon.

[@soberplantguy]

Thank you! And I wonder what Hoya you'll choose to build your collection? 😉

[@maryjo7123]

They should come with a warning! 😂 I’ve fallen for them hard. Dave helps. 😉💚

[@soberplantguy]

@@maryjo7123 Uh oh 🤭

[@deeb2000]

I quickly bypassed the beautiful hoya argenteas I saw today on Etsy because it is out of my price range. If I see one affordable I will certainly purchase one. But that KSB01 you showcased the first time that I immediately went and purchased is so beautiful with the dark margin. I have 2 large leaves. Thanks for sharing your story. Most of us have something we've had to overcome that interferes with our quality if life, joy, peace but a healthy hobby helps to balance out those feelings and a close relationship with the Creator. And, as a fellow frustrated long covid I do understand, I feel ya. Reading was my life, multicultural music and art. Now... It's almost a thing of the past. I'm sick of the memory issue but I try not to focus on it, I pray for endurance, calm and patience. Look forward to your next. 👍🏽 Dee, NY

[@soberplantguy]

I'm delighted about your KSB01 !! Mine (the other one) has been a strong grower. If not for the kindness of a grower, I wouldn't be getting an argentea princess, either. What. kind human. And of course I knew you'd get the long covid story. I still have my days of frustration, of course. A prayer for patience, tolerance, love and kindliness ... and then some quiet medication with classical music and the plants. I'm not sure it equals sanity (beware the person who tells you they're totally sane 😆), but it makes *all* the difference.

[@deeb2000]

@@soberplantguy Music yes, classical, new age, chill out and some classic Calypso music 👍🏽

[@plantybynature]

I too have passed on the argentea princess due to pricing. They are beautiful and I’ve heard that the cuttings revert a lot of times and so I’m scared to buy a cutting as well. Hopefully, I will come across an affordable small plant one day.

[@Etienne_Beaumont]

Thanks for sharing your story Dave. I find it helpful and inspiring. I admire your courage and honesty. Congratulations on your sobriety. Well done. 🎉🙌 I can't wait for the tent video. 😃

[@soberplantguy]

Thank you! It's always great to see you here. I'm going to balance my gimbal after I work through all these great comments, and then figure out how to frame the tent in our tiniest room 😆

[@MT-fq6xj]

Congratulations on your birthday. You have well earned to yourself a gift. Put in your memory bank:; when you reach your 20th year the urge to drink is powerful. I could not understand those that had a set back after all those years. Then when I was at that time in my sobriety I under stood. I have 41 yrs , who ray to us both

[@soberplantguy]

Wahooooo indeed! Here's to living an unimaginable life 😊

[@HeatherOatmeal]

Dave, thank you so much for sharing about your journey with sobriety. I'm so incredibly happy that you found the help and support you needed! You're bringing the hope of a better life to others. 💖 I'm grateful for your positive influence and your planty channel! 💚 Happy Sober b-day, and here's to many more! 💖

[@soberplantguy]

Thank you for the lovely comment, Heather!

[@faithewarren-agee5604]

Life is so short. I am so happy that you decided to ask for help and have been able to stay sober. Thank you so much for opening yourself up.

[@soberplantguy]

Thank you for your support 😊

[@faithewarren-agee5604]

@@soberplantguy We all just adore you, Dave!

[@Purrs_and_plants]

Loved this Dave. Thank you for speaking about invisible illnesses, I am 41 and have struggled with chronic illnesses for around 18yrs and its so diificult explaining to loved ones why ordinary daily things are suddenly difficult. I believe covid made my previous chronic illness worsen. Hope you are well and congrats on your 8th sobriety birthday

[@soberplantguy]

Thank you, and much love 😊

[@hanstera_deliciosa]

@@Purrs_and_plants 🫂

[@hanstera_deliciosa]

Make each other laugh and be kind! These should be the rules. Thank you for sharing all of it. Your laughter is infectious and I’d like more of it. 🤗

[@soberplantguy]

Please do! And btw, did I choose wisely: flight?

[@hanstera_deliciosa]

@@soberplantguy you’ll never know. 🤣 🤗

[@hanstera_deliciosa]

@@soberplantguy oh gosh I hope I didn’t hurt your feelings. Same. Every time. I don’t care what they say about us flyers…

[@soberplantguy]

@@hanstera_deliciosa The important thing is that you didn't do it on purpose. Or did you?

[@hanstera_deliciosa]

@@soberplantguy I wouldn’t (try) to hurt an ant’s feelings… but I often come across as too blunt so have gotten used to apologizing unnecessarily… :/ But you get me. 🤗

[@heatherstephens9295]

I so enjoyed this discussion Dave - sobriety rocks! I have seen many that haven’t made it & some tragic endings. Your wife is a legend staying & supporting you, now that is real love. I loved how you said you are both kind to each other, that’s awesome. Sorry I haven’t been in the Hoya world long enough to recognise the one you asked about, my wild guess would be a latifolia 😂😂 I’m a great dog lover & seeing your big boy walking in & out was funny. Really enjoying your channel & how you keep it real. You have a great personality 👍👍 We are heading into spring over here so hopefully all my little plants make some really good growth this season. Hope your long Covid symptoms keep making progress so you can have a good read again. Bye for now…

[@Mspoor70]

I second all of that, well said Heather 👏🫶

[@soberplantguy]

Thanks so much 😊 As for the mystery Hoya, I was quite confident that it was a lat, to. But cinnamomifolia is tis. Can't wait for that one to bloom! Do give updates on your collections as Spring works its magic...! Can't wait to hear 😁

[@heatherstephens9295]

@@soberplantguy will do 👍 I just received my undulata a couple of days ago - I’m very nervous 😬 My dear little Serpens is full of blooms at the moment. That makes me very happy - my husband thinks I’m nuts 😂🤣😂 but I get a natural high over flowers 🫢

[@soberplantguy]

@@heatherstephens9295 You're fine.... *he's* nuts 🤭

[@hanstera_deliciosa]

@@heatherstephens9295 😊

[@rosalieboutin4663]

Dave’s magic hands! 🪴 Thanks for sharing your life experience and plant expertise.🪴

[@soberplantguy]

I'm glad you enjoyed it! (I wonder what my hands will conjure next?)

[@lucyogutu-lumuli7253]

Happy sobriety birthday! It’s so awesome that you got the help to quit drinking because now we get to enjoy plants with you. You are so right about the effect of alcoholism on family and loved ones - I have a family member that’s currently struggling with alcoholism and not even a serious health has caused her to take that step to seek help. I pray for her everyday and I hope by some divine intervention, she will realize that she needs help. I really enjoyed this video, thanks for taking the time to make it.

[@soberplantguy]

That’s really tough stuff, and I agree: it takes some sort miracle. I hope the best for both of you ☺️

[@simplydee4522]

Congratulations on your sobrerity 🎊 Thank you for the Q&A and giving us a peak into your life as well as providing basic info for hoyas for newbies like me 👏 🪴👏

[@soberplantguy]

I'm glad you enjoyed it! More happy that my silly videos are helping newer people to the Hoya 😊 hobby

[@simplydee4522]

@soberplantguy I do enjoy your videos, your sense of humor, and the simplicity of your plant care. A dash of your words of life's wisdom while looking dapper makes for a good time with you.

[@soberplantguy]

@@simplydee4522 I love this 😁

[@debs_boho_jungle]

I live with my 83 yr old Mom in her 122 yr old home. When you said you admire into neighbors homes.. totally relate. I’m so blessed to live here and in beautiful Oregon! Love historic homes!

[@soberplantguy]

Awesome! I restored our entire 125 year old Dutch Colonial all by myself. What. A. Project. But we never could have afforded this any other way.

[@hanstera_deliciosa]

@@soberplantguy You need to brag more… humility looks good on you though 🤗

[@soberplantguy]

@@hanstera_deliciosa "Coming to a theatre near you, Dave brags. A lot."

[@hanstera_deliciosa]

@@soberplantguy I’d watch that

[@kathrynrobinson670]

Thank you for your transparency on your health issues and your affliction. I feel like you are making true friends by sharing your point of view in a very real way. Keep up your good work 😊

[@soberplantguy]

Thank you so much, it really mean a lot 😊

[@rebeccahenderson7761]

Congrats Dave!! You made the best decision. I learned on my twenties that alcohol ages women twice as fast as men, so that did it for me. Recently, a Cardiac Surgeon on YT Dr. London, I listen to for my husband said that alcohol is toxic to every cell in the body, so that's a big Yikes!

[@soberplantguy]

Good on you ... and yeah. Alcohol is a poison to everyone. I remember when they debunked the "one glass a day is good for your heart" myth and I was crestfallen 😆

[@rebeccahenderson7761]

@@soberplantguy So funny, I just watched a Dr. London short a few minutes ago, where he debunked the "red wine is good for you." There's no studies that say that and the polyphenols and resveratrol are in such small amounts that it doesn't work, and no studies proving large amounts work. Same for olive oil - it's just marketing by the manufacturers. Olive oil is definitely better than palm oil, but we aren't designed to eat large amounts of any oil. It's better to eat the actual olives.

[@lorettastyles5523]

Dave I am so proud of you for letting us deep dive into your life😊 . This video had my imotions in turmoil. I laughed at the jokes but I teared up about your health issues. So happy you are sober and living your best life with your wife and plants ❤🇯🇲

[@soberplantguy]

Thank you for the kind words!

[@maggiemay2878]

Happy birthday Dave 🎉 and thank you for sharing your story. Well done on your journey, 8 years is a massive accomplishment 😊 Much aroha (love) to you and your wife from Aotearoa (New Zealand 🇳🇿)

[@soberplantguy]

Thsnk you do much. I love the phrase you just taught me 😊

[@tammiepforr4720]

Congratulations on your sobriety anniversary 🎉. Saved by Grace one day at a time!

[@soberplantguy]

Thank you! And yes indeed ☺️

[@laurajackson8556]

Thanks for this video ❤congratulations on staying sober 👍🏼 your description of long Covid brain fog and tasks per day is just how I feel about my fibromyalgia! I’m constantly reevaluating how much I can accomplish, and friends have gone by the wayside because they think I’m lazy or something. And I want to have a H. elephant! I swear it’s the last one 😁

[@soberplantguy]

It's a challenge all the way around. No question about it. And if you don't have an elephant by spring, check back with me 😁

[@kimmatlock2096]

What a heart warming video. To open up about your life and your honesty is a beautiful testimony of being an overcomer. You have been through several hard seasons in your life. But look at you now. Your positive attitude and your funny personality is a pleasure to sit down and watch. I enjoy your channel very much. Thank you

[@soberplantguy]

I'm glad you enjoyed it, Kimberly 😊

[@Aquamarine.Aubrey]

I really enjoyed this video! Thank you for getting so personal and sharing so much ❤ Happy Sober Birthday 🎉🌱

[@soberplantguy]

I'm so glad that you enjoyed it!

[@TerryJent]

I've come across your videos a number of times over the last couple of years, but clicked away (probably because I don't grow hoyas). Today, I decided to take a closer look. You're a really good guy and really good at sharing perspectives far beyond your expert plant knowledge. Keep doing what you're doing because you are truly valuable.

[@soberplantguy]

Wow. Did not expect to read something like this today. And boy did I need it 😆 Thanks so much!

[@moiraslater8526]

The staghorn is a bomb of a plant, try an elk horn next. They are pretty easy to propagate once they have multiple plates!

[@soberplantguy]

But, but, but for space 😆 I'd defiantly have t grow it like some of the amazing Asian artists do theirs. Very proper little plants. I do so love my big wild boy, though.

[@moiraslater8526]

@@soberplantguy he is gorgeous

[@hannahschechter1018]

I really appreciate you Dave. Thanks for sharing your sober experience. Happy 24!

[@soberplantguy]

Thanks so much 😊

[@debs_boho_jungle]

Congrats! I’m so glad you had the moment you were open to it all and got help. Sobriety is work well worth it and all deserve it! Yay🎉🎉🎉🎉 you!!

[@soberplantguy]

Thank so much! So many don't realize that it's available to them (or that they're a candidate for the help 😆) Well, I'm laughing now, anyway. Life is good 😊

[@jeannielee511]

Congratulations Dave! You're an amazing, honest, and inspiring person! Love all of your videos. One of my favorite plants and easiest to grow is also my staghorn fern! It's ginormous and growing only in spaghnum moss outdoors in the California bay area. Let's keep 'growing' together!

[@soberplantguy]

Thank you! And the timing of this video.... My stag has grown sooo much this year that there's no way it can over-winter where it used to live. Today is Strategy Day for closing down the plant porch, and relocating that big boy 😁 And yes, let's keep growing together in every way!

[@WilliamLipski]

Thank you Dave, I always get smarter watching your content.

[@soberplantguy]

Ah, what a nice thing to say. Glad you enjoyed it!

[@ttschrock7126]

Hi Dave. I really am grateful that you have succeeded in your sobriety. Your recognition of the pain felt and your story. You will always be able to help others because of your experience. I don't drink alcohol, take drugs, etc. BUT .... I have struggled with food addiction. It is hard to change, because first you have to recognize it. I enjoy your channel and will continue to listen to you, please note this .... after listening to your story, I will always follow you because it touched me, and your success is important to me and others. So ... even thru your somewhat skanky jokes 😛 I will still stick to you like glue because I appreciate your struggles and get to witness your great successes!!! I also really respect you and am sitting in your corner clapping my hands. NOT all people achieve this. I don't know the odds, but I would think few succeed and most fail. Congrats on having a good wife who supports you. She must really want you to be happy, and vice versa you wanting her happiness too.

[@ttschrock7126]

p.s. have you ever had mealie bugs? i haven't so far but still worry. i do use your disinfectant recipe and it works. knock on wood the ONLY thing I have had is STUPID fungus gnats. Not many, but with me 1 is too many. 🙂

[@soberplantguy]

@@ttschrock7126 Mealies aren't really a thing for me, either. But, I did bring in some root mealies--and those you do not want. For that I used PureCrop1. I have a few fungus gnats file around from time to time, but the substrate dries so quickly, it's not really viable for them to continue the life cycle. Can't keep them from coming inside, though. Cheers from Iowa City

[@soberplantguy]

Wow, thanks so much. I really appreciate it.

[@ttschrock7126]

@@soberplantguy Cheers. Truly enjoy your page and this video. JUST great!!!

[@RachelPeterson0218]

Thanks!

[@soberplantguy]

Hey! Thanks very much!! ☺

[@mn4169]

Dave, living on another time zone, well I was sleeping and you were talking. Question, did your plant intetest develope after or begore you got sick or after soberity. You are so knowledgable in a way which reaches everyone. So sad that you cannot read your books, as an historian, I would not be able to cope with such a loss reading and writing and talking history is my life. So I can understand your frustration. Plants are a way of decompressing from stress. I think my interest awaken😅ed again when my daughters were diagnosed with heart failure and diabetes 1, and the challenges of writing a thesis at the sametime. I would like to thank you for your lovely comments. They make me smile. Good chat.

[@soberplantguy]

I have loved plants since I was a child, but definitely when I got sick, I focused more on them as "the thing I could do." I decided to take the art of indoor gardening much, much more seriously.

[@mn4169]

@@soberplantguy I have never had covid, have the constitution of an elephant, or so say my family. My husband, on the other hand, was really sick, and still has issues with coughing and such. Thanks Dave for your answer, see you on your next video.

[@hanstera_deliciosa]

@@mn4169 Digital hug

[@eviefriend3976]

This is becoming one of my favorite channels. I love Hoyas too. Thank you.

[@soberplantguy]

My silly channel is?? Thanks so much!

[@enazario3377]

Love this video! Thank you for being so real and true to yourself with us. Love your channel.

[@soberplantguy]

I'm so glad that you enjoyed it! Thanks for sharing the love 😊

[@JeanDavis-g7v]

Hi Dave. I always enjoy your videos but so appreciated this one. It was so good to hear your views on alcoholism and how you found your way to sobriety. Mentioning that alcoholics are thieves hit a cord. I called my husband an emotional vampire. I felt guilty about it but no more. My husband didn’t survive his alcoholism. I’m glad you did. Thanks for growing my joy of hoyas. Here’s to your next birthday.

[@soberplantguy]

That’s a sad, but common, result. I’m so sorry. Vampire is a perfect description.

[@soniacosgrove]

This is an extra special video. Thank you for sharing your story with us! Happiest of Anniversaries to you, your amazing wife and sobriety. Awesome plant content - You have made a big difference in how I care for my plants and they are happier for it.

[@soberplantguy]

Thank you, and it just delights me to hear that the channel has had some positive influence! I so appreciate you 😊

[@vixistixi]

I too find plant tours etc boring-I never watch them, even when my favourite KZbinrs post them! Your sobriety journey is inspiring. I drink alcohol probably 2 times a year & that’s through pressure off people-I find that hard to ‘stop being boring’ xxx

[@soberplantguy]

You said it better than I did--even the people I follow most closely, when it comes time for the one, two, three hour plant tour, I find something else to do 🤣 (But those are always very popular, clicks-wise). My wife's the same: couple of drinks a year, she's had enough 🤣

[@lisaanglim9588]

@@soberplantguy I prefer baby only drink two or three times a year. I used to have blacks when I drank back in my twenties and early thirty. Now if I drink one drink I’m asleep sitting up in my chair. Even in the middle of a restaurant. lol 😆

[@RiseandProcraftinate]

I deal with a lot of the same brain fog issues and fatigue having a neurological chronic pain condition. Getting long Covid and then blood clots & a pulmonary embolism a few months later, which made my nerve condition spread to my legs (it was only in my arms before) only made matters much worse for me. So, I feel ya on the health issues and can totally relate on the issues of dealing with friends and family. Well, honestly, I don't have many friends anymore. After 18yrs of dealing with chronic pain, that's pretty much taken care of most of my friendships. People just don't care to be around someone who can't do much or has to cancel on them. That's ok though, because the few friends I do have are quality. Thanks for sharing about your life and I always enjoy seeing your plants.

[@soberplantguy]

Oof, that's tough stuff right there. I feel for you. And I sure am glad that you enjoy the channel 😊

[@hanstera_deliciosa]

@@RiseandProcraftinate You sound like an amazing person.

[@RiseandProcraftinate]

@@hanstera_deliciosa Thanks, I just try my best with the hand I was dealt.

[@hanstera_deliciosa]

@@RiseandProcraftinate killing it. From afar anyhoo! 🤗

[@lisabarnes5340]

Thank you for sharing so candidly with us. Congratulations on your sobriety. Love your channel.

[@soberplantguy]

Thank you, Lisa--and thanks for all the support you're showing me!

[@alishascott-rogers3801]

Congratulations🎉 love your channel

[@soberplantguy]

Thanks so much, on both counts 😊

[@hanstera_deliciosa]

Oh hello! Nice to see you here again! You’re helping me do chores I don’t love to do. But must do. “It’s a have to.” My dad used to say. Blah. 🤗

[@soberplantguy]

I've got so many havetos on my list for the next several days..... Huge warmup in Iowa, so I'm hoping to somehow marshal energy to do house projects. We shall see, as I say. All the time.

[@Wubblyt]

Thanks for being so open about all these things. While showing lovely Hoyas, as always. The long Covid issues that you describe sound very similar to my chronic fatigue symptoms (for the past 20 years). You are so right… the best way of dealing with “the loss” is focussing on and finding enjoyment in the things that are still possible. Finding reasons to stay positive…. its a lifeline! For me doing anything away from my house is a very very conscious choice of being sick for days after, so whatever Im doing better be worth it 😅. Did lose some friends over that, they just couldn’t understand the consequences because to them the consequences aren’t very visible. Luckily others are very understanding and accommodating (including my husband). Also to the start of the vid… I find downsizing very difficult, because I usually have to downsize by giving away/selling plants that I still like and enjoy.. No regrets so far though 🌸

[@soberplantguy]

Ah, yes. You totally get it. In Miro's recent video he mentioned he'd been offline for awhile because he's not about faking it. And I thought, If I was about not faking it, I wouldn't do ... anything some days or weeks 🤣 While I haven't lost any friends, I've put one or two at arms length. Thinning down a collection that you still actually like, now that would be a different matter. The stag is a hassle to deal with a weekly basis, on some level. If I had to get rid of that--ouch. That cut deep. Always great to hear from you! Cheers from lil' ol' Iowa City

[@stacywatkins2562]

Was not interested in the staghorn fern until I saw yours & what was possible. Gorgeous! Now I want one!

[@soberplantguy]

Just love it!!

[@debbiem9640]

Hi Dave, I really enjoyed this video. I enjoy watching plant chores so much. I’ve always had plants since my very first spider plant at 13 (I’m 63 now). In the past year, I have gone from 0 to about 20 Hoyas, so I am still very much in kindergarten on that subject Lol! Thank you for also noticing some of us are newbies and very much still learning. Congratulations on your success and growing through life’s interesting moments. In April next year I will have 10 years being 100% smober after being addicted to cigs since I was a teenager. So I get it about addiction, been there too. My one question is, has your beautiful substrate mix given you a life 100% free of fungus gnats? Also, I have a different opinion to another commenter. I love skanky jokes. I’m always up for a good laugh too. Keep it going, you legend, you!! 😊

[@soberplantguy]

Uh oh, did I make a skanky joke? Haven't seen that comment yet 🤣 As for the substrate, I don't think anything can guarantee that. Even Kaylee Ellen using leca and bug bombs gets them occasionally. Since they come in through the screen and whatnot, I still see them sometimes, but infestations, or large amounts of them? No, never. It dries so thoroughly down through the top/middle of the pot that it's not really viable for them. Cheers, and I"m going to go look for that comment............

[@debbiem9640]

@@soberplantguy Did you find it? I only wanted to politely disagree with what was said and hopefully you will just continue being yourself. I know I have enjoyed jokes in the past and I can’t be the only one. That’s great info about the fungus jerks. I seem to have ONE lurking close most days, but no infestations since I changed things up a bit. Thanks again for an interesting video.

[@soberplantguy]

@@debbiem9640 I did, I did 🤣 When I started this up, I decided to just be me, without all the sailer's language 😆 So, no. I won't be changing anything. People go to all sorts of lengths to get rid of fungus gnats. Last year seemed to be the year of gnats for *everyone.* I just used mosquito bits, regularly, and that was that. Very cheap, very effective. My favorite things!

[@debbiem9640]

@@soberplantguy Good news, just keep doing you. I had an outbreak last year too and also used the famous bits. All is well now except the odd one always lurking and aiming for my nostrils. Jerks!! 😂

[@hanstera_deliciosa]

@@debbiem9640 “ONE lurking close most days…” is exactly my situation 😆 I love it

[@newmanmansell760]

Hi Dave😌8 years ago you gave up the drink👏💞Now you have pride, strength and courage. It's those things that make you a good man.

[@soberplantguy]

Thanks for the kind words 😊

[@lisaanglim9588]

Happy sobriety birthday 🎉

[@soberplantguy]

Thank you!

[@aplantprocess]

Great messaging. Thank you.

[@soberplantguy]

I’m that you enjoyed it!

[@Mspoor70]

Happy sobriety birthday. Huge big massive congrats. 👏🎉🎂

[@soberplantguy]

Thank you! The day I quit drinking (and didn't start again) was the biggest surprise of m life, and for a a lot of people who knew me for that matter 😆 It's been a wonderful ride.

[@Mspoor70]

@@soberplantguy your story gives me more hope for someone very dear to me, also a little more understanding which is priceless really. 👌😁

[@soberplantguy]

@@Mspoor70 I was hoping my message might find someone just like you 😊

[@Mspoor70]

It’s an important message and I’m sure others were helped by it too. I’ve been thinking about it off and on all day. Giving my mind time to absorb it fully. The hope part kind of ebbs and flows but the understanding part has been so tricky for me to get to grips with and your words helped enormously with that, making everything fit together better in my head.Thank you and congrats again, oh and while I’m blethering on, big cheers for your blinking great Hoya content👏👏🎉

[@lisaanglim9588]

54:40 I agree that anthuriums all look the same. Especially the young ones. I just don’t get the raving about it.

[@soberplantguy]

People feel the same about Hoya, so I get it lol

[@NikaS60]

Congratulations 👏 ❤😊 🎉 Happy Anniversary

[@soberplantguy]

Thank you!

[@lisaanglim9588]

Thank you for sharing what is a very personal part of your life. I don’t keep secrets in my life but I doubt I could be that honest

[@soberplantguy]

I'm glad you enjoyed it. I'm a pretty open book, that's true.

[@shadesofidaho]

So sorry you are dealing with the long term Covid issue. I hope you continue to feel better.

[@soberplantguy]

Thanks so much!

[@nunyabiz36]

The sober story made me teary. 🥹 I could listen to you all day long. ❤

[@yvie925]

Loved this! Thanks for sharing ❤

[@soberplantguy]

I'm so glad that you enjoyed it!

[@phf3238]

Congratulations on being who you are now ❤

[@soberplantguy]

Thanks so much--I appreciate all your support 😊

[@lisaanglim9588]

I’m So glad you’ve come out of he worse of your long Covid problems with brain fog. That would drive me crazy. Not being able to carry on a conversation. I’m a talker. It’s my job to keep my sister awake when we go to the coast.

[@soberplantguy]

It's a good perspective to keep, when I'm feel down and frustrated, that it has been sooo much worse.

[@ceciliapacheco6027]

I love all your plants,very cute dog in your video 😂😂

[@soberplantguy]

Thank you! She's going to want royalties, isn't she......

[@SpikeKing19]

Happy that you've come so far with long covid and your sobriety. I bet how you met your wife will be how I find my partner 😅. Sending positive vibes my dude!

[@soberplantguy]

🤣 Thank you so much, and good luck finding your partner!

[@ceciliapacheco6027]

Beautiful video I can relate with you,I wish you the best love Ceci.

[@soberplantguy]

Thank you for the love 😊

[@ceciliapacheco6027]

Always there for you.

[@515santo]

Echoing other sentiments of congratulations!! Not an easy life to leave. Again, very informative!! I do have a question, do you have a video or a resource to point me to regarding moving my hoya collection from an chucky aroid mix to your mix? I have 80+ hoyas at the moment. My concerns revolve around how to tell when I need water and the transition.

[@soberplantguy]

Thank you! As for the mix, should be an easy transition if you decide to make a change. Really just a sideways change, not like going to semi-hydro, or vice versa. Cheers from IOWA CITY

[@HoyaLover07]

Thank you, I'm going to start making the transition.

[@paxleidig5327]

Tent video! YES! Wait, you've said that before. Are you REALLY going to give us the tent video? 🤔

[@soberplantguy]

I deny ever having mentioned a tent video before and that's my final answer................

[@paxleidig5327]

You keep saying that.... and always just after you mention it! 🤣🤣

[@soberplantguy]

@@paxleidig5327 Keep saying what 🤨

[@hanstera_deliciosa]

@@paxleidig5327 I have my suspicions as well…

[@paxleidig5327]

@@soberplantguy 🤔

[@paxleidig5327]

Oh shoot! I had a BUNCH of other questions to ask!

[@soberplantguy]

Hopefully we both still have time 🤣

[@paxleidig5327]

Hahaha! I'm not going anywhere! Proud to know you my friend!

[@soberplantguy]

@@paxleidig5327 I hope not. Your my Southern connection 😊

[@soberplantguy]

Okay, let me anticipate what they were, and answer them now: purple. 7, shepherd's pie, dog, and Florida. How'd I do? 🤭

[@paxleidig5327]

@@soberplantguy ROFLMAO. Sorry, not even close. All of my questions had to do with your professional career. I know you worked at a nursery in Florida and I'm curious where you came by your horticultural insights. You sorta answered when you talked about "figuring things out for yourself".

[@anawithplants]

ooo I've been looking into getting a gimbal, so let me know if you like yours! I think we have the same camera (sony zv-1?) also I gotta get you on the anthurium train, it's never too late 😂

[@soberplantguy]

We do indeed have the same camera. I’ll let you know how the Crane M3 performs. So, what anthurium should I be looking at, and from where?

[@anawithplants]

@@soberplantguy thank you! oh boy depends on if you want a pendant or regular. but general starter anthurium are the clarinervium and crystallinum. red crystals are esp pretty. there's so many growers to choose from too lol. when the times right, one will speak to you! 😂

[@ceciliapacheco6027]

Am very happy for you and keep on doing what you do and you going to be fine Love

[@soberplantguy]

😊

[@celesteporter9645]

Love your channel! How could I buy plants from you?

[@soberplantguy]

Thank you so much! I can be reached at [e-mail]. Running a bit thin this time of year, but perhaps I'll having something you're looking for. Cheers

[@njiseidou3197]

congrats on your 8 i have 13 and never looked back btw where do you sell hoyas at? keep up the good work!

[@soberplantguy]

Hey, thanks! As for sales, I've been doing it through email. I had no idea how much interest there'd be when I started this little channel. So, next year I'll have something much more organized lined up. Be well, friend

[@sherry.4474]

Im glad you got sober. My ex husband died due to his alcoholism. He always thought he could quit on his own.

[@soberplantguy]

I'm terribly sorry to hear that. It's a sad and common outcome for many of us. Best to you 😊

[@lisaanglim9588]

I let them grow way out and then pin them in the growing up position.

[@soberplantguy]

That's about your safest bet, to be sure.

[@Austengirl89]

I'm 35 and I've never drank. I've had lots of people ask/pressure me about it. I have 3 reasons: first I don't believe it pleases God, second alcoholism runs on both sides of my family including both my parents, and third I have an addictive personality. I'd just rather not go down that road, I'll stick with tea.❤ Edit: sorry the anxiety got to me. I don't mean any of that as an insult or criticism of you I'm thankful God rescued you where you were at and I'm thankful God rescued me before I could repeat the problems I see illustrated in my own family.

[@soberplantguy]

That’s a very life plan. Cheers from Iowa City ☺️

[@Austengirl89]

@@soberplantguythank you

[@lisaanglim9588]

How long were you in the acute phase of Covid?

[@soberplantguy]

The worst part was the first year. But I'm still deep in the woods.

[@wootlesswocks]

My mother has had her orchid in bloom since January! I’ve killed two in that time period, I do not have the gift

[@soberplantguy]

I was astonished at how long my phal bloomed. Of course I just got lucky growing it, since it was my first effort.

[@EmmyChilton]

Congratulations on your sobriety streak of 2922 days!

[@soberplantguy]

That makes it sound much more impressieve--thank you!

[@neerajadamarla929]

I shoutdown people who doesn't respond positively to me. I don't want to be connected to people who drains my energy We can't extend the trellis like a moss pole. What you do whe the hoya outgrow that trellis?

[@soberplantguy]

I keep wrapping if I can, or re-trellis if possible. Sometimes/oftentimes I'll undo some of the vine to prop from. I haven't yet tried to extend the cage trellis, but I'm might try that next year? We'll see 😁

[@lisaanglim9588]

Not a clue what it is. 😮

[@soberplantguy]

I hope you watched to the end......

[@lisaanglim9588]

Maybe”clamped” is the word you want?

[@soberplantguy]

That'd work!

[@maryjo7123]

Live and learn is not for me either! 😂😂😂

[@maryjo7123]

Loved this video! ❤

[@soberplantguy]

Highly overrated 😂 I’ll learn from my mistakes next go round…….