Restoring great grandparents' farmhouse in Italy : challenging DIY tree removal

[@roccocirigliano8775]

Tree guy here. You really did your homework for this one! Very impressed with your performance and knowledge of tree work. You killed it though! Great job!

[@DaveJohnsonad5nm]

Agreed, though I may have done things a bit differently I think he did an outstanding job.

[@sgrvtl7183]

Your comment is Very cool 👌

[@ukpaullouis2708]

I have to disagree strongly. You took on a job that easily could have killed you and with 0 training. Trying to make very dangerous tree removal seem easy just a diy job is incredibly dangerous not just for you but for anyone watching. Watching your partner bucking wood with a big saw clearly demonstrated how little you understand about the work. Please people understand that this was a very very poor choice and could have ended very badly very easily. I have seen several videos like this now on YT and it is disturbing to see. None of what happened in this video was safe or reasonable for a novice to attempt no matter how much YT videos he watched. Sorry to be so negative but this kind of stuff is going to get people really hurt.

[@SouthernItalyHomestead]

@@ukpaullouis2708 I agree that nobody should assume it was easy - you can read the video description where such is explicitly stated. As for the techniques, please explain exactly what you think was done incorrectly here. Enormous amounts of background research was done. Not everyone could, but I can and did. As I see it, it is the responsibility of each individual to know their own abilities and limits. Perhaps I should do another short video, however, to spell out all of the considerations that went into this work... but I am guessing there would be little interest in it.

[@ukpaullouis2708]

@@SouthernItalyHomestead I was a utility arborist and worked in forestry for 30 years and I can not count the injuries and deaths caused by people thinking they did their research and were okay do do tree work. Doing research on climbing chainsaw use and dangerous tree removal would tend to educate anyone that no one with little or no experience should even consider doing work this dangerous. You came out alive with just a little damage to your house and I suggest that was luck rather that skill. You asked me to point out what you did wrong but that would be pointless because all I see is what you wanted the audience to see. I was quite hesitant to respond to your video in the way I did but I did so due to seeing multiple channels producing Video suggesting you can learn a few bits do some video watching and be somewhat safe with saws an trees. Did you consider if your life insurance would cover you if you were killed doing it? Some Tree work is so dangerous most life insurance will not cover you. Did you have a ground crew that knew what they were doing? We’re they insured? I could go on and on but no point. The money you spent on gear and the risk you took with your life and anyone with you was absolutely not worth it in my opinion. I hope that people reading this will appreciate that sometimes DIY is just never appropriate. This is one of those times. I am very happy that you made it out okay. If you had not, we never would have see the video. I wish you only the best of luck with your channel and thanks for reading my comment and replying.

[@gov2260]

I have worked in the woods for years and your equipment is exactly what I would use👍👍

[@corywadedavis]

I'm a climbing arborist with almost 20 years of experience. Absolutely fantastic job!!! Well done!

[@SouthernItalyHomestead]

Thank you!

[@sdqsdq6274]

lol, dude doing it on a first try on his own

[@SuperBotanica]

I could hardly watch the pruning of this tree. I've never seen this technique - unbelievable what you did - respect!

[@jasondk5127]

If I were 25 years younger and realized how fabulous Northern Italy is I would have moved there years ago. Congratulations on a beautiful home!

[@dottiebaker6623]

I love your philosophy concerning your place! I've done the same thing at mine - using natural materials from my small piece of land for projects, and gradually accumulating used furniture that feels homey to me. Yes, it takes longer, but after 9 years, it's really starting to have some character. And you are so right, it's not about just making a place to live - it's about paying attention and understanding the reciprocity between you and the place where you live. The energy of your tending and your slower approach to the time it takes is tangible, and people feel it when they come to my place. Rica, I salute you for learning how to take on a task you've never done, and modeling that for your son. I was raised by parents who did that, and it's made my life so much richer. At 74, I still have that confidence, and I still take on projects I've never done. One thing - when splitting wood, you'll save energy and avoid injuries if you start the swing from about your shoulder instead of lifting the entire splitting maul from below your waste each time. Most wood will be easier to split once it's dry. And it will also be easier if you split in line with the grain, not across it. You'll get the hang of it pretty soon. Pace yourself - it's the key to longevity. When it's a pleasure to do, you'll know you've got it right. Best wishes to you and your family.

[@SouthernItalyHomestead]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts and story, Rica wanted me to tell you that she was touched by your words.

[@jjudy5869]

I teared up when Rica described her learned helplessness. I'm glad she was brave enough to follow your lead.

[@MrPlito95]

It resonated with me as well, I have to admit I have struggled with it for a long time, and it has been a hindrance for a lot of things in my life I admire the kind of energy and spirit Giovanni showed and talked about when he was cutting the tree. Thats the kind of spirit and attitude I want to harbour within me, thats the kind of energy I want to project on to the world.

[@pumpupjam9648]

It is my desire one day in the future, to return and help put back together my family's ancestral home. It's in the valley in Norther Italy, near the sea town of Albenga. You have to drive about an hour to get there. When I was little, my parents introduced me to some of my great aunts (no uncles, they died in WW2) and my cousins (their sons and daughters). I can remember my aunts, dressed in long black dresses. Their white hair pulled up into a bun. They (were sisters and lived in the same house in the little town). I had lunch with them, they were so precious! I never ate food like they made it before (even though my mother was a great cook herself). I loved it in their house. The back was a small porch that overlooked the river below, and a Roman bridge (which to my knowledge is still standing but no cars or trucks or animal used for labor can go over top of it). My grandfather lived in the house further up into the valley. This is the house I want to renovate and live in myself. But that's some time in the future, when this planet is finally cleaned up and no more divisions and violence or wars exist! I long to meet my grandfather again, my father's aunts, their children (all deceased now) my grandmother who died in 1942, I never met her. I have a picture of her and she was a nice looking woman. I hope to have lots of fig trees (they died off during this summer's drought, along with the groves of olive trees that dated back several thousand years. Yup, the olive trees were still living when I was there last time in 05! Sorry but you guys who are renovating your ancestral home, brought back many fond memories. The houses made over 600 yrs ago and more the mortar was volcano ash it was wet and it made the best cement ever. Look at those Roman Bridges, in various parts of Europe, still standing!

[@uktenatsila9168]

Right on Tree Brother. Beautiful! I am an arborist and climber. And you are a very impressive young man. Blessings to you and your family.

[@claudiosaltara7003]

Very moving story that gives a man the feel of continuity of his life from his ancestors’ lives.

[@chloerowe7051]

I love the sound of falling timber . I don't know why just do. So that was very satisfying. Xx

[@orangeapple4792]

Hats off to you mate removing that tree so professionally. Even professional arborists may fail to clear with clinical precision. It will be an interesting adventure to watch your future episode. All the best from Australia

[@kolaved]

Thoroughly enjoyed your video and your personal reflections on what the property means to you. Do continue to document your adventure. It will be a family treasure!

[@sempi8159]

arborist here. looks great for having no previous experience. Alot of investment :)

[@SouthernItalyHomestead]

Thanks... so you understand how gear creep works.🤣 At first I thought let's climb on a friction hitch, then I'm like... well, that zigzag sure looks nice... at least I didn't get a monkey beaver saddle! Let me walk you through how I rationalize (make excuses for) the cost : The 462 will be used regularly for falling and bucking firewood, as well as milling wood as needed. The 201T and climbing gear was used on this removal and there's another bigger oak on the other side of the house that will need pruning over the years (I'm hoping to keep it standing, will show it off in a future video). So that's one big removal + occasional ongoing pruning + getting my own firewood as needed / other basic landscaping. In this neighborhood people also trade favors from time to time. Having a rare skill might give me something to offer in exchange for other help. I don't know how much I would have been quoted on this removal here in Italy but I feel like (putting aside the 462) I about break even. Peace of mind knowing how it should get done, doing it well enough to not risk the house, the street cred I get with my neighbors, and most importantly my son seeing what kind of person I am... makes it all worthwhile. Growing up I saw my father pick up new skills very quickly, I think that shaped how I view myself in very important ways. Super important to me to get the same message across to my boy.

[@sempi8159]

@@SouthernItalyHomestead sounds perfect. Ifword gets out you will definetly be doing lots of favors. Just remember to stay safe and try and think of the people that might need to rescue you( for example always having a secondary access line etc). Dont want a stupid mistake to cost you everything.

[@SouthernItalyHomestead]

@@sempi8159 You know, that's an excellent point. I totally forgot about rescue prep. I will make sure to study up and walk through scenarios with my wife next time.

[@gailbutler483]

Intricate and impressive tree removal. Your farmhouse is very charming and I love your philosophy. I hope you post more videos and perhaps feature a tour of the house?

[@shanecrawford6023]

Well mate, like most Canadians we is a chainsaw early in our lives. I will say that you took on a bloody task I sure as the devil wouldn’t have. I still have my grandfathers spurs for treee climbing. Good on you, as for your lovely wife, her views on doing things outside the comfort level are bang on.🇨🇦

[@jeffreylang2633]

I applaud you for your quest for what is of true value to your family. Your Grandparents risk all for financial stability-generational family wealth (a good thing). You have already achieved or understand how to manage fiscal responsibility. What your Grandparents could not calculate is how technology and societal development would impact the quality of everyday family life in a modern world. I studied, lived, and worked in Italy as an American. I came from a rural background with a strong, yet non-Italian background. However, family is universal. I cherish the Italian concept of family and La Dolce Vita. Your path is noble and wise. Best Jeff

[@ohcrapwhatsnext]

You have to learn somehow. As a young boy i watched my dad and other family members on the farm do things. Finally, i began to take part and then i was allowed to harvest and sell cord wood. I learned great skills that make me pretty much able to fix almost anything in the home, inc repairing componets in a laptop... It was nice seeing you guys learn.

[@tomstopper5281]

What a dream house. The spirit of the house called you back yo your roots, a magical place for a new family.

[@josephdillon7420]

What a fantastic job of extreme tree removal. I was getting very nervous viewing this but he was very successful with the task at hand. We can learn a lot from this young couple. Love it.

[@mf5531]

Dude you did an AWESOME job with that tree. Enjoy your beautiful home.

[@MsHeather383]

Loved this! Idaho Rancher here and daughter of a Sawyer. My son and I bought and renovated old homesteads. You have done Great. We manage 1000 acre ranch and timber. Great Job. Fyi; Even I can't handle a Stihl that big lol. We have owned our property 158 yrs. Roots are irreplacable.

[@luminyam6145]

Been helping my dad cut trees for years but never ever tackled anything like this!! Well done! So happy I found your channel.

[@angeloc3842]

Just think , you’re ancestors stood on that very ground. They looked up at the very same rolling hills and mountains top and thought about their own lives and dreams, loves , worries for literally generations, they watched their children. Hundreds of years man. That’s just wild, blows my mind. My family is from the same part of the world, southern Italy. Congrats taking down that tree and stepping up to the challenge. I’m sure they’d be proud.

[@SouthernItalyHomestead]

My grandmother came with me a few years before she died. Life was pretty hard for them at the time, as her father was working in the US and left his wife and kids to manage alone while he saved money and bought a new house in the US. When they moved away from Italy it was a traumatic experience for her and her brother. She was so happy to visit the house with me and to help with a few things. It gave her so much peace and closure I think. The last time we spoke on the phone she was just bursting with happiness, excitedly talking about going again the next summer, and kept asking me "You REALLY like that place so much? Oh that's so nice..."

[@angeloc3842]

@@SouthernItalyHomestead that’s Beautiful, I love that. Our families ancestral home is in a small town called Rende. I’m told it built by our family over 400yrs ago and that every street around the home was named after one of them. The home was supposed to come to my brother and I but things change. It’s in good hands. Lots of music and art in the fam. Apparently my father’s cousin even help restore the ceiling of the Sistine chapel. Beautiful world.

[@johnlorrieboskovic2836]

@@SouthernItalyHomestead My grandfather came to the US from what is now Slovenia in 1907 following my great grandfather who came here around 1901. They had not seen each other in six years. Great grandfather was killed while working as a lumberjack with my grandfather in 1909, so your approach to the task is appreciated! In 1980 my sister visited our family there and was able to visit the house grandpap lived in. I have yet to do so but plan on it soon. I've felt that "pull" if you will for a number of years now. My sister about had grandpap talked into returning with her but he passed away before that happened. He had always said he didn't want to "go back to the Old Country" but I think he missed home in a sense as well. Thank you for expressing the feeling behind the "why" leading you there on your journey there. We are in many ways rootless here in the US. It is good to see you wanting to plug back in. Peace.

[@sfstucco]

@@SouthernItalyHomestead - You are so fortunate to have learned from your grandmother how the move away from her ancestral home to the US impacted her. I’m so glad you were able to spend time with her enough to have those conversations. You gave her both the joy of visiting it again and of knowing you will be restoring it and making it your home. That was a great gift you gave her. She must have been IMMENSELY touched. I want to thank you for commenting on this experience with her. I never got to talk to my grandmother about how it was to leave her home (Italy), but I always think it must have been terribly lonely. She never learned much English. My grandfather had moved from Italy to Germany, then America to find employment. He returned to Italy, married her (they had lived 1 village apart), and brought her back with him to the U.S., just after their first baby died. Fortunately, they lived on a street, for the first 10 or so years, that had a lot of Italian immigrants, so that must have helped.

[@binflynn1]

You are game doing that tree yourself, I applaud you 👏👏 can’t wait to watch more .👍

[@haydn4126]

This was a great watch, incredible easy watching and some great cinematics! It gave my vibes of Martijn Doolards Italian restoration, thoroughly looking forward to episode 2, when can we expect it?!

[@lindachenoweth9002]

Love watching Martijn!

[@doreenwilliams9622]

Am also an avid consumer of Martijn Doolard’s content. Loved this!!

[@_Julie_Bee]

Yt actually sent me here after binging Martijn's amazing channel. I'm really glad it did!

[@sdqsdq6274]

think his house has been upgraded , still prefer a rock stacked house

[@FarmsVilla]

Yeah Martijn sure is inspiring to watch. One day I hope to be able to come even close to the quality of his filming. Bit hard with just an iPhone but hey you have to strive towards something right? 😊

[@monalingan9523]

I have such admiration for what you and your wife are trying to accomplish.

[@SalteeChick]

Many times I hear highly educated people verbally diminish the value of farmers and trades persons because they are, in their opinion, 'uneducated'. I'm elated to see those from places like the Silicon Valley getting a sense of what the 'uneducated' do every single day, and appreciating what it entails and the benefits of physical work. As an educated person that also delves deeply in physical work, I had no idea that those in the city had to rethink and process a plan in order to accomplish such work. Glad you are giving their child the resources to manage this work at a young age. Great job on the tree, by the way. I honestly don't think I could have managed this in the way you did.

[@SouthernItalyHomestead]

I plan to do a long video on exactly this topic. I myself am PhD and only started questioning that story after thinking harder about rural vs urban living. The truth is that the thinking of many of our neighbors in this area is very much aligned with our core values. I think the internet and potential for remote working has made the rural vs urban divide into a false dichotomy that may slowly unwind over time.

[@WravTil]

@@SouthernItalyHomestead My wife and I both had good professional jobs in IT and HR but almost 20 years ago we decided it was time to retire and we moved to Italy (we are both English but met while working there in the late 70s). We restored and extended a rustico and then got into olive oil and wine production and growing our own vegegtables. Very satisfying. Have a look at the Place in the Sun video on my channel for a taster of our house in Liguria

[@SalteeChick]

@@SouthernItalyHomestead I'll keep an eye out for it. Would love to see it.

[@g.f.-w.9130]

From Austria. Your place is absolutely beautiful!!

[@ateliermavi]

Good job taking those trees down safely! Waiting for the next episode :) cheers from Liguria

[@SouthernItalyHomestead]

Thanks for subscribing! Random curious fact you might be interested in : actually this area in antiquity was populated not only by Samnites, but also 47,000 Ligurians who were deported to the area by the Romans in 298 BC, after they had been attacking Roman soldiers traveling en route to Spain. So there is quite a strong link between these hills and Liguria!

[@aaronvallejo8220]

Really nice story of your lives. Thank you. In 2017, my wife and I moved up the mountain in BC, Canada. I had previously built a wooden structure around my little trailer. The steel roof was installed. There was a single layer of plastic on the open walls and the old wood stove works. We got the fire roaring and then internal temperature went from -12C to -10C. So I turned to my wife and said "Well honey time for bed" under 4 blankets with hoodies on a head torques as well. That was our first night. Every night I worked on something to keep us warmer, more insulated, more solar PV electricity, hot water etc. It was definitely hard work and a challenge but fond memories too.

[@charmainemcdonald9679]

How wonderful to have this beautiful home gifted to you… also fortunate that this experience is a choice… can you imagine your forefathers surviving…so much hard work ..so much knowledge they had..and you will pass on to your child..🇦🇺

[@patrickmccandless803]

I connect with this. I taught myself the same way once covid hit. Watched every video I could find. Now I run my own business and climb multiple times a week. I watched the funniest and most simple lengthy videos on chainsaw safety. Now once someone over there asks for your help on a big job I'll come help to pay for my vacation to Italy. Such a great video man

[@SouthernItalyHomestead]

Thank you!

[@arianahoule7223]

I was holding my breath when you were cutting that hallowed tree. It is a good thing it is down. A strong winter storm may have had it come crashing down on your home. I like how you are both willing to be mindful stewards of our beloved mother Earth. It gives me hope for my grandchildren. Thank you.

[@lizkuisma238]

Beautiful, beautiful. The people, the place and the dreams.

[@SouthernItalyHomestead]

If you would like to see updates of our projects in the future, feel free to subscribe to the channel so that you'll be notified next time we post a video. Thanks for watching!

[@Genkoprime]

I tuoi antenati piangono.

[@artmod3darioart862]

Bravi ragazzi.... Tornare alla vita campestre è la cosa più bella e migliore che potevate fare per la vostra famiglia. Tutte le persone dovrebbero imparare a lavorare la terra, essere agricoltori di sussistenza cioè coltivare il proprio cibo. Sporcarsi le mani e lavorare la propria terra ci rende persone migliori. In questa maniera creiamo un legame maggiore con madre natura e impariamo a rispettarla ogni giorno di più; in cambio ne traiamo un beneficio in salute e nello spirito. Bravissimi. Un saluto, Dario da Ferrara

[@zulkifliramli8022]

This is a great project. Please continue publishing your videos.

[@julieduchek2969]

I wish they would show the inside of the house. This is an exciting project. I love Italy and the area where they are is beautiful.

[@angelaberni8873]

Beautiful !!!! You will never be just a number living there. I feel infinitely sorry for people who live in pigeon coups in large cities when they could be surrounded with such natural beauty and independent of rules and regulations. You are giving your son a wealth of knowledge and freedom that city kids will never know. Well done. Viva l'Italia !!!!

[@Kami-bP705]

Omgosh im so glad KZbin suggested you!! You look like a fun and sweet family and I can’t wait to follow your progress!! God bless and protect you always!!♥️

[@nicolethijs5428]

The way you takled that tree looks if you have done this all your life! Very brave of you!

[@sgrvtl7183]

Amazing work by Giovanni in this tree cutting! It looked scary, but he seemed to take precautions to SUCCESS! BRAVO! Beautiful statement/thoughts from Giovanni's wife❣

[@Joaquim_Conde]

Congratulations on your decision to take on this project. Great work all around. Keep it up, looking forward to your progression.

[@TFA468]

As a professional arborist this was very entertaining to watch! Best of luck with this project! It has amazing potential!

[@foggydew55]

This house has a huge potential! You were lucky to inherit it but it's good that it happened to someone like you that is able to perceive and respect its story and history, and also to valorize it. Very interesting journey, I'm following!

[@timleonard7166]

Gr8 job, amazing that I taught yourself… I pretty much did the same, admire your determination, tag lining rigging is 1 st class, gr8 risk management, and skill… Make a nice place for your family to settle… Enjoy the country side, keep it simple and have fun…

[@timleonard7166]

Amazing team effort…

[@raeraewells7053]

I’ll be watching for your future videos! Very excited to see what you will do.

[@jonboyle326]

i enjoyed your words . made me reflect

[@marywalker2896]

U scared me up in the tree. Wow but u were an expert and did your homework. I agree u killed it. Great video.I subscribed.

[@fivizzano]

build quality of the masonry is superb… this is one solid house, PROVIDED you take care of the roof ASAP and not allow water seepage to freeze/crack the angles where walls meet … buona fortuna !

[@SouthernItalyHomestead]

Yes I think we're quite lucky that it's made of all cut stone and not rubble.

[@Daytona2]

Fascinating to see, thanks for sharing. The Alaskan Mill looks interesting. YT's superb algorithm bought me here - I also watch Martijn Doolaard & Talasbuan

[@schokey3513]

With no more experience with chainsaws/cutting down trees than you have (and what you do have, you googled), you did an outstanding job!!! No bloodshed and no more damage than the 3-4 roof shingles, I applaud you - Bravo, Bravisimo. Very good.

[@tommynikon2283]

At 66, I've done all the trades on my properties over the years- EXCEPT....risking my life on a tree. I had a big/scary fir outside my living room years ago that needed to go....and when I found out all that was involved, hired it out. My mistake was two-fold: I agreed to be his "helper" for the project, bucking sawed rounds over two days; the 2nd. mistake was NOT agreeing to have it hauled off afterwards: it took me another 2-3 years just to cut it all up, stack it, dry it out BEFORE I could actually use it. Kudos to you and your hard work, and INTELLIGENT approach to your own project.

[@belfastconor8521]

Great episode. Loved it! Thoughtful, precise, skilled, thorough, safe. Great storytelling and cinematography.

[@judyschepp8748]

I couldn't have said it better BelfastConor. Looking forward to the next one. Loved seeing their son picking rocks👍👍❤️♥️😁

[@SJLamb-te3dt]

You might consider tree species of tree that you can coppice or pollard. Hazelnut coppice can provide firewood, building/fencing, nuts, and pig forage. You can mix multiple species of tree into a coppice as well. Hazelnut, oak, walnut, etc… It would give you multiple uses and because there have been coppiced woodlands for so long there is a lot of literature/best practices research on how to manage them.

[@Blue1Sapphire]

Thats pretty impressive work u did there with those trees, considering u havent had the experience. Abseiling & chainsaw work both require specialist skills and many things can go wrong and quickly.

[@rodcharlton1889]

I agree, my sister married a man that his family always "called a guy" when they needed something done. He was absolutely amazed that my Dad could fix things or figure out how to fix things himself. He spent alot of time with my dad and really enjoyed pushing his limits into new things.

[@richardaragon1391]

I'm impressed that you took on this lifestyle . And you are both partners in in this new lifestyle

[@WNWNReDesigners]

This one video incorporates SO MANY SKILLS! I'm excited for you and hope that there's another video coming soon.

[@praiseyethelord7121]

I hope to see you back at the homestead!

[@SouthernItalyHomestead]

We're here now! I'm in the middle of doing some lime pointing at this very moment. Will post videos when we're back home.

[@philipmasters7491]

Pressed the Bell to subscribe. This would be a Very long project if it is just a Vacation job! Will you be able to transition to spend longer in Italy.?

[@pramaccra3106]

What a wonderful job your family did on this visit. I am looking forward for more videos on this project. Thank you for sharing.

[@elizabethsaffioti1432]

I just found your channel. You are not only lucky to have this beautiful home, but you are a poet… your words and voice are so easy on the ears. I will look at all I’ve missed and look for to all your future videos.

[@phmv99]

Very thoughtful and interesting commentary - a spoken essay. Look forward to seeing more.

[@ninoellison7793]

So glad I found your channel. Love your emotive narration, and your beautiful new home and it’s stunning surroundings. …brilliant job with the tree cutting too!

[@julias-shed]

Good to see both of you getting involved. 😀

[@elicenb2306]

What a delight to see. Great values in approach and dedication to forward the project of life throughout. Very inspiring.

[@ronmack1767]

Enjoyed the video. I admire the both of you for taking on a big project like your home and especially tackling that tree. Great videography. Glad its gone well so far. I believe you have the arborist profession down pat.You both take care and God bless.

[@SouthernItalyHomestead]

Thank you!

[@marthaollis5049]

@@SouthernItalyHomestead It has been a year. Are you planning to continue this channel?

[@relocatetoEUROPE]

Just found your channel, and subscribed, like the way you tell your story. I too live in Italy and have a giant cherry tree in thr cortile that really needs cutting, cant find anyone to do it. Well done for endeavouring this you look like a professional. You wont be short of firewood

[@uteschneider3349]

Frage doch PatricMacCanless. Ein paar Kommentare vor dir.

[@samsiryani9023]

It was a pleasure listening to you and your wife and watching your story with a little bit of the family history, you took on a challenge and did it very well so well deserved sir and a happy future for you and your family God bless.

[@patboyum105]

Excellent story telling. Could listen all day!!

[@daydreambeliever6603]

I am very much looking forward to watching your journey home. Exciting tree cutting. Amazing.

[@johanvandijk2941]

Thank you for your great movie and sharing your story. We, my wife and I, recently also got two properties in the country side and however our backgrounds are different from yours, we share that same filosofie. Use and/or re-use what is on your property.

[@252Maplehurst]

You truly built tension there with the cutting of that tree. Your courage is to be admired.

[@glenyscallaghan1195]

I love how you intend to manage the homestead.❤❤❤

[@stevengilleyOU812]

As someone who repelled out out helicopters, I was very impressed seeing your skills in that tree. Really nice job!

[@inthegarden6556]

Looking forward to more of your work on the homestead. My dream is to live in Italy but do the same thing.

[@mariadange06]

I watch many stone build homesteaders and your house has great bones, solid stonework and gorgeous doorway. Very impressed regarding the tree removal 😮 Tip to the lady re chopping wood, she starts right with hand position and should follow that through but she drops both her hands to the end of the axe loosing momentum.

[@paulprentiss8757]

That was wonderful. I am sending this to my step son and his wife. Thanks for sharing.

[@mikestarkey7989]

I've forgotten your name (Giovanis wife) you might think it's a bad idea to fell that tree, but it's far worse to have a dead tree leaning over your home. You did the right thing. 👍👍

[@lancedaniels]

Thanks for posting and sharing. Looking forward to how the project progresses.

[@richardmarino5658]

I am really happy to find you on KZbin. You have really impressed me with your knowledge of trees and the interest in your ancestors' home and now yours. I know you will have many other projects that you will address in the future. I really look forward to your postings and progression. May you and your family stay healthy, safe and happy. Rich Marino/Hunterdon Cty. NJ.

[@pappete9988]

You have a great philosophy and now youre learning the satisfaction of doing the physical work yourself. Youll never fully appreciate what youve done for your son but its priceless. I love the smile on your wifes face when she split that piece of wood that wouldnt split, that summed it up. Aroha nui from Aotearoa

[@federico.sampaoli_1965]

di bellissima forma questa casa in pietra. un bel regalo dei nonni! e complimenti per il taglio dell'albero: ingegnoso e coraggioso!

[@michelemichele8196]

Watched your catalog of videos❤you rocked that oak tree ( my favorite), your wife splits logs, and your spray bottle is much larger😃a tad of sadness in your voice... let that italian out loud and proud 👏

[@wgoconnor33]

First time watching, I couldn’t believe how well you took that tree down , well done.

[@robertcuminale1212]

My great grandparents left Sicily in 1901 when my grandfather was about a year old. My aunt went there about 50 years ago and found there home. Amazing to me that people just left their homes and didn't sell it. It's still in their name along with the land. There's some process involved in claiming in it. She thought she might try some day but never did.

[@judyschepp8748]

How sad.😔 Maybe it is up to you now😉😁

[@michellezevenaar]

You should be able to get dual citizenship. If you can find the house again you might be able to buy it or claim it if it's derelict. There might be a tax bill connected to the property though.

[@halfglassfull]

I wonder about property tax. US high property taxes means you get old and can't pay, they take it away. Or squatters move in and claim title. It would be nice to think there are still some places where the property and land is truly owned outright - free and clear.

[@mists_of_time]

@@halfglassfull italian here. The majority of property taxes are to paid for town public services, so you don't pay them on houses that are considered "unusable" / ruins.

[@stevedingman474]

Wow amazing tree work ! My wife knew nothing of cast iron cook ware I’m 58 she is 38 so I had too show her the way , now she won’t cook on anything else easy clean up a paper towel wipe it around with a splash of water dry it on the stove and it’s done she wants everything cast now 😂. But she’s found some amazing cast at garage sales and estate sales ! And I love to clean and restore them !

[@SouthernItalyHomestead]

At the house we have an old cast iron skillet made in the mid 1800s. Durable, natural, excellent cookware.... what's not to like? :)

[@claudiosaltara7003]

I would keep all the branches you cut on the ground to be always reminded of the harduos job you did.

[@viablue8143]

This is like Stardew Valley in real life! Jokes aside, this is really beautiful. I think we, as in most of humanity, have strayed too far from nature. We mostly spend our lives indoors and many people don’t even know what the “smell of rain” is. We’re mostly busy with social media, watching the TV, playing video games… and don’t get me wrong, those are fun, I love them too, but that’s all we do. We don’t go outside and enjoy the sunshine, or listen to the wind, or watch the clouds. Many of us don’t even have the opportunity to do any of that. And it makes us depressed and unhappy. I’m not one to scoff at the comforts of modern life, I like living in the time of washing machines and modern ovens. But I think straying so far from nature is very bad for us. That’s what our ancestors had on us, their connections to nature. I’m lucky enough to have grown up in a small village close to nature, and I learned how to seek and find refuge in it. When something bad is happening in your life and it feels like your whole world stopped moving as you wonder what to do, you go out and just look at all the creatures surrounding you, watch them go about their life doing their best, not worrying about tomorrow, just making the most out of the moment. You see old plants that have now died and gave an opportunity for new buds to grow. You realise that no matter what, the world keeps moving on, and tomorrow will come eventually. It reminds you that what you currently feel, the sadness, anxiety, fear, all of that are temporary, and even if it feels like they rule your world right now they will go away. That there is always a way to go, even if it wasn’t what you originally planned. That you don’t need to save the world in one day, or do something extraordinary, you just have make what you can out of what you have. You learn to take things one step at a time, through many years, without giving up. Just do enough, you really don’t need to do something significant every day, or make every minute count. That’s what we miss in our modern life, which is scheduled around making a profit. There is nothing wrong with working hard today to live well tomorrow. But I think we’re so caught up in trying to bring out the absolute most of every minute (financially) that we forget to live. I’m happy that you’re willing to take hard steps to ensure that you and your family have a happy life, and return back to nature, even if you keep modern commodities (which you absolutely should). Your son will grow up much happier and more peaceful.

[@evilla7579]

Love the cinematics, great video. Love also the personal narratives. There is first time for everything.

[@lesserpoo]

You slayed that tree! Great job! I was so impressed. What a great place and history. Thanks for sharing your journey.

[@NATALIE_W_]

Wow, what a wonderful story teller you are!!!!!. I'm so glad I stumbled upon you video. Hope you continue to share your Italian adventure. Hi from Australia!

[@8thcelisabeth]

Wow! Never thought I'd watch a tree cutting vid, but so glad I did! Happy to follow.

[@americanhomelessfirst7689]

My lil brother loved Italy. He was on leave rom the Iraq war . He said I’m going to retire there . Asked would I go with him I said if you want me too. He didn’t make it October 2006 he was killed in battle he was 27 . I went to Italy to try to understand his obsession for Italy since he is Lithuanian American. He right though Italy is beautiful . If you can work from home both of you do it life is very short and painful at times .if you only need to pay taxes and utilities grow your own food chickens and all that . Do it get solar panels or any other way to save. Enjoy your lives congratulations on the home!

[@Subiemal]

Video deserve far more views. Commend you for doing so much yourself.

[@DJ-uk5mm]

Wow what a great idea for removing branches down the rope I didn’t have my glasses on initially I thought wow he’s skilled……managing to get those branches to balance on that rope

[@markdaugherty6378]

Your technique was spot on for that tree removal, patience is indeed the key to success. Looking forward to seeing and hearing your take on getting the weatherproofing of the house.

[@rachellenewcomb4811]

Amazing video! So wonderful to see your progress! I was right there w you the whole time, cheering you on and laughing w you! Beautiful home for a beautiful family!

[@judyschepp8748]

Hello to the three of you from Wisconsin, USA. I thoroughly enjoyed this video and the next one too. What a wonderful place you have there. I'm looking forward to more!!!! Your son is adorable. I have 3 sons of my own, all grown now. Take care and stay safe💚💖♥️😁🤗