My Lofty Garden Plans (& my internal STRUGGLE) | VLOG

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[@thenodiggardener]

I mean this in the best possible way, but you're over thinking this. Put the tunnels up, lay down the beds, plant/sow stuff, and remember what you tell everyone else, 'plants want to grow'. Then remember what I said in one of your lives about first gardens being like making pancakes; you know that first one is going to be a mess, but you'll still get food that tastes good at the end of it. Only difference for you, this isn't your first garden, it will just be your first time with this garden. It won't be failures, it's all a part of your learning journey with it. You get to learn what it needs as you go along. This is your classroom! What do you have to lose, other than some seeds?

[@sarahslovely08]

❤️

[@camicri4263]

Well said worth_a_beet! Ditto!

[@helenfarrer8565]

Amen! Well said and I agree!

[@maydaygarden]

I think J&M are going thru their own cheesecloth. There's a barn that needs to be built. Kids need time & attention. Animals need tending. Business considerations, and so forth. I don't think they are overthinking. Everything they're doing needs to have a thought process. And it's alot, occurring at the same time. It can't be compartmentalized 1.2.3. IMHO.

[@PoliteTeeth]

@@maydaygarden I agree with you. It sounds like they are looking at the bigger picture, not just the next couple of months. IMO, when you have a project as big as theirs, it pays to do things right the first time, so it sticks and stays. No point in just throwing dirt down and having to redo the work later on. Especially when they have so many things to juggle. I think they’re being very wise about everything.

[@bryonyhellis]

Roots and refuge, I came for the gardens but stayed for the love you guys share with each other, your faith, your wisdom and joy. I’ll be here as you dream and grow and every inch of the way, I’ll be inspired

[@carolannjacques268]

You're so fortunate to have your own " Bob the builder" who will do anything you dream up! What a blessing.

[@cathyrich4611]

"If you don't try, nothing will happen. But if you do try, you may just get something." again an opportunity to use your words. You've got this, Jess. Remember to breathe.. take a moment.

[@TheSouthernersNorthernGarden]

Jess: don’t over extend yourself preparing your garden Miah: I’m going to build both the greenhouse and high tunnels AT THE SAME TIME. 😂

[@AB-ol5uz]

The greenhouse in AR was definitely an expression for love from Miah to Jess so I have no doubt that's a HUGE part of his motivation for the new one...plus, her birthday, etc.

[@shamancarmichael5305]

You guys are the perfect complement to each other! Jess dreams and Miah builds! And 'when you build it we will come'... and watch... and learn.

[@nicholaceho9679]

Jess, every gardener needs a chair...to sit and plan. I love that you are at the start of an epic adventure. Please remember to take a breath and dream big. ❤

[@famleelife7533]

🍀🍀🍀🍀 I was a member of Jess and Jill Growing Gardeners Course (VIP) I was a first year Gardner and was overwhelmed with SOOO much information on the Tube so I invested in a trusted source. I learned so much…BUT most importantly I learned why I wanted to grow a garden. Brilliant Course and highly recommended 😊

[@blueapples6215]

Jess, I don’t know if I can put into words what I feel is wonderful about your videos but I’ll try...I think back to finding the first video of yours that I watched. It was you milking a goat, talking about your dreams and a little unsure but faithful. A little like you are in this video. There was an authenticity, a sincerity, an innocents, a kindredness if you will that drew me in. As I watched more and more of your videos I seen your fearlessness to dream out loud. To be willing to fail out loud. To pray and walk in faith out loud. So it is all the sweeter to watch you succeed out loud. Keep going, he’s got you in his hands! 🙏 You are an inspiration to many many people. Same goes for you Sweet Miah! Love watching you support your wife and family! Your incredible too! I hope that all the blessing you’ve sent out come back 10 fold to you guys! ✌️❤️🙏

[@patcox8745]

Amen, Amen. So beautifully said and I agree with you 100%. God’s got this! God bless you and Jess, Jeremiah, and your families.

[@thewitchhousegarden3194]

Jess I was a teacher for 25 years. I always told my parents who bucked at the thought of failing. There is no growth without failing. Your journey moves forward then drifts for a time, but you are not going backward. I see and appreciate your five year plan theory. But if you look at it you have sub plans as well. Each a steppingstone. You are an awesome teacher. You accept us at whatever season we are in homesteader, farmer, gardener, patio plot. Since last January I have felt so encouraged by your family. I now have 2 raised beds, I build my own cold frame from my head. My son and I have created a mini orchard, berry patch and this fall I constructed a no dig garden in the Charles Downing fashion. All because I told my daughter that I wanted my garden to go vertical and she said, " Here mom watch this chick she is awesome." I remember the time right before you were going to move. You were in a classroom and you wanted to be in another classroom. And here you are right now. It's coming and it is all going to look beautiful. Keep learning and dreaming!

[@missourigirl4101]

Jess- watching this is interesting because Mia stands there as a pillar of strength and support. He touches my heart. He loves you so much.

[@katenelsen7073]

You are absolutely changing the world, Jess. Turning so many people to growing their own food, living more sustainably. Sharing your wealth of knowledge is changing the world and I am seriously so proud to say that I’ve learned from you. 💗

[@RootsandRefugeFarm]

This blesses me so much

[@katenelsen7073]

You have me nearly in tears. You are doing SO MUCH good by sharing your struggles, your knowledge, and by wanting to do MORE to teach others. We SO appreciate you.

[@gelwood99]

With the nature of how Bermuda grass grows, I would NOT harrow it to remove the grass. I would use the skid steerer to undercut the grass off keeping it as whole as possible because the grass will grow from every cut root left behind. Make sure that the most grass has been removed first then put down the compost and soil amendments and go from there. That barefoot tender lush grass is overseeded Kentucky Bluegrass. I found that out when we spilled the bag of seeds and it came up like a picture, thin blades of lusciousness, true perfection! It will be wonderful and things can always be transplanted if they don't work out where they start. I have moved many plants as I learned the area where I moved to. After 20 years here it is finally coming together!

[@sonetcollins6205]

Such a pleasure watching you two together! Dream big Jess, Miah is there to help you make your dreams come true. 🤗❤🌻

[@Mute2024]

Isn’t he?! They’re so adorable!

[@maydaygarden]

My sister & BIL have a charcoal/pencil portrait of two mule heads in harness. It used to belong to his parents on their peanut/tobacco farm in NC. It's now in my sister's home and my BIL says it represents that he and my sister are "equally yolked". They've been married for 38 years now. Jess & Miah are the same way in that harness and pulling together.

[@karinroberts5160]

Listening to you is so inspiring. You are describing to me...... gardening, homesteading to feed your family and soul. I have faith that whichever way it goes shall be stunning. Now, I bless you until next time. You have a beautiful soul.

[@wendybond9374]

I have a pair of milking overalls that are big enough to step into with whatever I’m wearing, and then take off before going in the house and it keeps everything tidy, and my daily clothes clean. If you put some of mama’s milk in the calf’s eye, it will clear up that infection. Learned that as a nursing mama. Should be same for calves.

[@jujube2407]

I wad just thinking who's got breast milk... never thought a cows milk would do the same for her baby! Hahah I'm like jes who's got a baby Nevermind... you're still new... don't make it weird! Lol

[@chrissihr1031]

Yes! I was just coming here to suggest this! Works on human babies; why not calves?

[@sunnydayssandytoes4337]

That too is what some human mammas do for babies with goopy eyes.

[@tracygarns9611]

I have trouble finding warm weather overalls that fit. What brand do you use? Cold weather overalls I can find.

[@Doktracy]

Yeah,carharts coveralls,tractor supply. If you’re cold natured get some insulated ones for our rare real winter days.

[@debrezo58]

Mia made me crack up..."I lay in it, I pet it." He's just so darn cute!💖💖💖 Hallelujah for being "grass rich"!!! 💖🙏💖

[@humphreyhomestead]

I was CRACKING up at that!!

[@Timeflygirl]

Me too! He is just a sweet soul!

[@amandar7719]

Jess. In September, I took off grass in a new area as an experiment. Then lightly rotovated, cardboard and mulched, covered with weed suppressant fabric and planted into burnt holes. I tarped the second area and it’s looking great to plant into in the spring. The first area is a failure with weeds pushing up the weed fabric everywhere and the brassicas have been eaten by critters living under the warm weed fabric. I really would suggest you tarp your second high tunnel area now, anyway. It will at least begin a process of breaking down the grass whilst you and Miah have the time to concentrate on other projects: A clean slate without all the mud and possible failure… 😘 Isn’t it lovely having the Christmas tree up. 🎄🎄🎄🎅🤶🎅🎅

[@kimlittleton4943]

Agreed. I have battled bermuda grass for years. Best way is cover it up......for a lengthy time. You cannot rush it but if you are patient.....you can get rid of it. I have a small garden and spent countless hours digging out the roots.....section by section. What kind of barrier do you use Amanda? I have to watch my boundaries because it wants to grow into the garden. I read an article of a lady and she put a trench around hers. It is a constant battle.

[@1GrannyPants]

Thank you for your reality check Jess, This morning, during a very lazy period where my garden chores are piling up, I hurt my finger. This little voice reminded me that at 63, living alone, I need to remember to figure out how to make my huge garden and wildlife habitat function with lower maintenance for the times I am unable to do anything. I am on my 4th year here and 1 1/2 years ago I was working at a fast rate to finish my 3- year plan and was knocked down by Covid; which lasted for months. I am still not back to my old energetic self but close. Simplifying and creating lower maintenance choices along the way is something I did not plan, but am definitely working on; kind of. I forgot that I am human and may not be able to do what I want some days/months. Thanks for this episode! I hope your back is better soon.

[@connieahrens1439]

Weed out that self doubt and worry! You can build those greenhouses and gardens now and improve upon them with the seasons. Hope you all have a blessed day!

[@diannemiller4754]

It truly is a gorgeous table. So much meaningful table top. Can't wait to see the finished dream/project!!! Sweet Miah in the background rooting you on. He's such an encouragement to us.

[@intentionallymade]

This video really was an answered prayer for my heart. I am much like you with my heart and mind. What I really love seeing in your videos is how much you and Miah have grown together in this dream and how much Miah looks at your dream with awe. I see your vision and I’m so excited for you! Praying it goes smooth and brings so much joy to your land and those who step foot on it.

[@shellyholdren6120]

Girl!!!! Im a December girl too, my day in a couple weeks as well, (although a bit older than you) and I love December!!! When I was a kid and everyone said how awful it must be, I always thought no, everyone is celebrating, decorating, there's tons of lights and everyone is having parties!!!! My mom always wrapped a separate gift in comic strip paper, being sure to keep my birthday special and not christmassy (besides the snowman on EVERY birthday cake!!!) Celebrate baby, it all comes together in the end! Blessings!!

[@deannewilliams3321]

I think you needed a season or two to rest. You’ve been going at it so hard, for so long, you just needed a break so you could tend to other things that needed your attention. I also think you’d like Laura’s kitchen (?) garden at Garden Answers as inspiration for around your mosaic table area. It’s like a formal Tetris game style raised garden area. Very classy/classic looking. And Cog Hill just uploaded a video and started a very cool compost system on their new property with lots of great suggestions in the comments to make it wide enough to work with the tractor. Have fun making your dreams come true and thanks for sharing with us! ✌🏻❤️😊

[@hollyfarnsworth6567]

Sweetheart you have the light of GOD. Thank you for sharing you spirit and your vision. I'm aoon ro be 63 and alone. I lost my husband almost 6 years ago. I have been lost. I took 24-7 care of him for 6 years. grow a big gardening I might eat 8% the rest I give away. You inspire me. I thank you.

[@jessb6555]

Making sure that grass is deader than a door nail should be your number one priority so that it’s not an absolute nightmare for you in the next how many years.

[@2debweb]

I am so jealous of your grass! We are grass poor!!! You too are amazing and y’all are so blessed because of your hard work. Thank y’all for all your teaching and sharing. I love looking forward to your next piece of your journey and knowledge. God bless and until next time!

[@patchurch1677]

A sugestion, repeat the success with the pigs in the location of the second high tower. Then you will have the ground prepared as it will be in the first one. That would mean you have a high tower built and going, then a greenhouse to finish before starting the garden and seedlings. Remember, winter is rest and recharge, it is a slower time for gardeners. At least in New England. Thank you so much for sharing your vision. :-)

[@sherrybacon8041]

Thats what I thought! Do it soon. Then throw some peat over it and cover with soil while it's dug up from the pigs. It is going to be a great garden!!! I love listening to Jess. She goes out to her space like I do... I dream and try to figure out my next move 🥰

[@kaybell1501]

@@sherrybacon8041 .

[@samanthaclairesnyder]

You are one of the most graceful, peace-inducing, deep-breath-of-clean-air KZbinrs on the platform. When some other homestead vloggers make me anxious and put me negative head space, you bring this lovely grounded-ness, honesty, and a reminder of how beautiful the life is, even in the midst of the craziness. And you still convey important information (that others are pushing mercilessly) without it taking on all of that crushing weight. Thanks for being such a great example.

[@bluegirl777]

Very well said. I do feel much lighter after having watched Jess and Miah as opposed to other youtubers who mean well. Most youtubers try to give advice but it ends up leaving me anxious. I always feel so much peace after watching R&R Farm and always encouraged to DREAM BIGGER! 😍

[@terryhenderson424]

I have turned 4-5 below grade, community garden plots in the space of a growing season with a mix of fresh and seasoned barn cleanings from horse stables; horse stable manuer grows alfalfa but few weeds and no thistle nor morning glory. These had originally been decades old sheep pastures (tired soil) with a mix of original and brought in gray clay and also river silt which acts like gray clay; they had winter, standing water and the winter water table was beetwen the surface and 12-18" below grade. We hand turned and hand decomposed as much as possible and added the barn cleaning at a rate of about 50% down to the 12"-18" depth. Then top dressed at about 12"-18". Ultimateky, we did more rototilling than hand turning. When the top dressing of the first one prepped disappeared, we tilled and turned a little for more depth, added more at about a shy 50% wellaged cleanings and let sit for a week, top dressed at about 12" with well aged cleanings, tilled and planted. We went from 4"-6" below grade to almost 18" above grade when we planted. That one got mixed veggies. The next plot we did more tilling, less tending, but did hand dig the perennial plantains and buttercup. It had mostly the well,aged horse manuer that began with a 12"-18" top dressing tilled in plus another top dressing barely tilled in before planting with an assortment of closely planted tomatoes and summer squash; it began abiut 2"-3" below grade. We got the third plot Memorisl Dsy weekend which we tilled, raked grasses and weeds from, then top dressed with 18" of manuer which we tilled in the following week-end then closely planned hills of short season winter squash using cardboard boxes to maintain our hills. We added and turned in more well aged manuer inbetween the hills sorta kinda until the squash plants started to grow beyond thier cardboard boxes; in some places the dirt was as high as the hills, else where not so. By fall clean up these gardens were close to or slightly above grade.

[@mississippigirlgardening8396]

I believe that the way you are describing to us is a great way because for the ones that are just now watching can learn from scratch and that’s the best way for new growers to know and understand the value of taking time and not rushing 💚

[@HeatherCooan]

You're so young. Such an old soul. ❤❤

[@kellygreen8255]

Love this Chick! Oh my gosh! Love this Chick! And….she wouldn’t be this incredible Chick if she didn’t have this incredible man behind her! Y’all are so inspiring!!!

[@juliewolfe7558]

Ok silly question - can the piggies be moved to where the second high tunnel will be? Then you could build the 1st high tunnel and green house and then build the second high tunnel last.

[@marthabradas8873]

Thank you for always being so real. I think it's easy to hope, plan, dream big, and then to want it all so quickly. That's me for sure. You make me feel so much better to acknowledge that we must give ourselves time and to take care of ourselves physically, mentally, emotionally. I love your channel and how wonderful you and your family strive to work together to accomplish your goals and dreams. Thanks for sharing!!! You are amazing!!!

[@yvettestanton]

Have you started your permaculture course yet, Jess? I really feel like it will help you answer some of these questions. I find that for my own garden, sometimes it just takes time to sit and percolate through your brain, and then ideas will pop out. Don't rush it. It will all come together, and one of the ingredients is time.

[@susanbaker8130]

Ending was the best. Big picture of love, adventure, sharing life.

[@09echols]

Sweet Miah truly gets you. You give a detailed explanation and he condenses it to one word. Love it

[@toolmantrl]

FYI, I am a Zone 8b gardener in Southeast Alabama and this is my yearly planting schedule. January 1st: Start peppers in trays February 1st: Start tomatoes in trays / terminate/tarp brassicas February 14th: Plant potatoes March 1st - 17th: Plant seeds in ground March 17th: My average last frost date April 15th-30th: Harvest potatoes & onions May 1st: Plant sweet potatoes July 15th: Terminate/Tarp Spring/Summer crops August 1st: Start fall crops in trays. Seed in frost tender crops. September 1st: Plant fall transplants / seed in onions (short day) October 1st: Harvest sweet potatoes November 20th: My average first frost date December 1st: Harvest all frost tender crops

[@kathrynrodlun8514]

You kids are great! My birthday is a couple days away. Your hubby is such a perfect mate for you. You both are blessed. The more you give the more you get. You got this! I love following your journey! I really do. Thank you both very much.

[@calamitylaura751]

I kept thinking the whole time I was watching this "make a 5 year plan, not a 1 year plan". It will all come together and I can't wait to watch it ☺️

[@TheYooperGardener]

Jess after many months I finally uploaded a video. I doubt daily that I have a story to tell. I know it's there, I just need to be brave enough to tell it. Im one step closer in my assignment in this classroom. Thank you Jess and Miah!

[@camicri4263]

Jess, This is your classroom and this is your first garden in this place! So, go for it! You will not fail, you will learn about the land, the soil and everything in between! I am as impatient as you so, we will learn together! 🤗💜🤗

[@TizzyLynn]

Cow milk in the calf's eye(s) does help. Can also use oxytetracycline if it develops into pinkeye. Oxytetracycline is one of, if not the, only antibiotic acceptable for feeding veal calves. Useless info. Stop overthinking right now. Start growing. Adapt and adjust as needed.

[@lindalucas7680]

I have to say.... you 2 are just such beautiful, sweet people!! God Bless you and your family! REALLY aspirational and aggressive, I LOVE young people who have that!

[@terryhenderson424]

In this same community garden we helped revive the community corn patch and the community bean patch with dump truck loads of the well aged manuer; close to 15 yards at a time in a 10 yard dump. This too was top dressed then tilled in. This did well but, we could have had at least 300 more yards. (The plots' manuer along with some if the corn and bean patchs' manuer was brought in by heaped/ domed, 6' long bed, Ford Ranger; most of it hand loaded and all of it hand unloaded) The plots were something like 20' by 24'. The one we had 2 years and began 6" below grade got well over 21-24 yards the first year and about 15 the second withiut showing signs of excessive nitrogen in the plants. The tomato plot 24 plus yards, minimal signs of excess nitrogen but even our determinate tomatoes "jungled" and intertwined with the rest; I tried light pruning for the first time on tomatoes and genersl containment and all this did was promote even faster and greater growth. The squash plot got 15-18 yards all total.

[@robingarner1192]

I so appreciate the timeliness of your share here. We bought 144 acres (!!) & my brain has been in a constant state of elation & overwhelm. This tremendously helped me exhale. Thank you for the reminder that it takes time & will be so worth the effort & lessons learned!

[@daisycouchfarm2464]

I’m sitting here bawling my eyes out. I truly feel like God is using you to speak to directly to me at this video. We literally closed on a brand new Homestead a month ago, and I want to hit the ground running. I want to do all the things and get back to where I was last year but on a grander scale! Everything‘s been pointing to slowing down and being the tortoise not the hair. But I think I needed this blunt in your face, Melissa slow down like the expert is telling you. I don’t like it, but I’m gonna listen 😅😊

[@shamancarmichael5305]

@Melissa Dey Congratulations on your new homestead! Like Miah said (via Bob the Builder) You Can Do It! 👍

[@daisycouchfarm2464]

@@shamancarmichael5305 thank you!!!

[@julieslittlepatchofdirt95]

It's a great day to be above the grass. God bless all and keep smiling. Merry Christmas all.

[@ElderandOakFarm]

This is my favorite time of year because I can finally clear my mind enough to DREAM about the upcoming gardens. I just came up with an idea for my hoophouse (which I'm making my greenhouse, which will mainly be used just in the spring to harden off seedlings & then during the summer to place my buckets of cutflowers while I'm harvesting, so they're in the shade & for me to sit in and enjoy the garden) where I'm going to have my husband make a big piece of lattice in the shape of the tunnel & I'm going to grow climbing roses on each side. & maybe something else until the roses are large enough...

[@jacksaffell3981]

Mr. Miah's last comment sparked a thought in my pea brain. He said, "maybe we can scrape that grass off and put it where we need better grass!" My thought was; could you guys rent a sod cutter and cut the sod off where the greenhouses are going to stand? You could then roll up that yummy sod and put it where it is needed most and you then cover the "sod-less" soil in the greenhouse with heaps of amazing compost. Tada! Amazing green house soil. Just a thought. God bless you guys.

[@tracygarns9611]

I love milking twice a day! I miss it the two months every year that my goats are dry. I don't drink milk those months. The same with eggs while the chickens are molting. I appreciate them so much more.

[@rainerounduphomestead8942]

My daughter’s birthday is Christmas Eve ❤️ She was the best Christmas gift I’ve ever been given 😊 Thank you God! 🥰

[@sandrainontario6710]

I can hardly wait to see the new Greenhouse‼️♥️😊

[@loveandlighthomestead1915]

I'm so excited for Sunflower Steve to visit you! I'm praying I can get my hands on his seeds. Those flowers are absolutely beautiful!

[@donnamoore4494]

You and your family are sooo adorable and helpful and after what you did on your old property your going to surpass that on all the space you have now. God Bless

[@rutheglinton1117]

My late mother always had wise words for every occasion. One of her favourites was 'it's not about the destination, it's about the journey'. Jes, if you apply this to your new garden then we can all benefit in your grand journey, I look forward to sitting alongside you and enjoying the view :) blessing from England, Ruth.

[@lindastrandquist2429]

The look Miah gave Jess near the end. Oh my. Perfect

[@kristinjackson9434]

Love the idea of being “Grass Rich”. What a blessing!

[@the_backyard_homestead_1850]

I am so excited to start the garden class. I am wanting to expand my know how in the garden world. I know a little but ready to expand my knowledge!!!’ Thank you so much for all your hard work and willingness to teach. Love your channel!!!!

[@LandOfJuncoville]

Super encouraging and glad to hear I’m not the only one doubting what we’re trying to do ourselves. Thank you for your transparency. Love that: “grass rich”! We just seeded about 8 acres of future pasture and it is so exciting watching that grass grow!

[@patcox8745]

BREATHE, Jess. Everything in it’s time. You WILL have your beautiful gardens again. With God, sweet Miah, and yourself, how can anything go wrong? Remember, the Lord has experience in building a beautiful garden....let Him help. God bless you and your wonderful family. You are a light to a lot of us! 🥰

[@melaniem3265]

Wouldn't planting trees along the drive in the garden shade some of it out? What about different berry bushes? They can give you that "lined" feel without being so tall as to produce much shade with the added benefit of being about to stop and get a berry snack on the way to the barn. :D Don't know the sun angles though so you do you. Try to take a breathe and relax about the new beds. New beds are ,from my limited experience, always going to be a disappointment compared to old beds. I opened up a new bed this year, what plants survived and weren't eaten by pest (and my dog) were slow to grow but eventually did thrive. You got this girl.

[@mgtmoffat8411]

Each day as it comes with what it brings. We came here almost 20 years ago. I dreamed and planned but life had other ideas. Because of things out side my control, most of my plans did not happen, those that did I saw fail many times. I still dream and scheme and plan and love where we live. Despite the thwarted plans it has been a good 20 years and we are happy here. Waking up each morning in this glorious place is a real joy. To hear you say , it is what you plan but if it does not happen it is still OK you have obviously worked this out ! You two are a good team. 🌻🌻💕💕

[@marissashelley2362]

Jess...SC is strange in that...if you don't like the weather, just wait 5 minutes & it will change. Then, if you don't like the new change, wait 5 more minutes & you get something else new. And the cycle goes on!!! I've lived here for over 70 years & I'm still amazed at some of the things that happen!!! 😱 👀 🤔

[@OurOkieHomestead]

Grass Rich! Those 2 words mean everything to anyone raising livestock!

[@tamararoberts9307]

You're still young and full of experience, I don't doubt that your dreams and invisions will unfold, especially with your passion. Keep God first and nothing will stop y'all ❤

[@tamararoberts9307]

I strive for diversity also , ultimate classroom for myself and my family 👪

[@MountainPondHomestead]

The phrase you’re looking for is “House of cards” because if it’s done in a hurry without thought for the foundation and structure, with a slight breeze it’ll all come tumbling down 😁

[@charlotteseden9303]

You guys are so cute. I just love you and cannot wait for your videos to come out. I'm also impatient when it comes to my garden. We moved, from a quarter of an acre to over 7 acres, last year. It was very hard to say bye to my cute garden I had. I had so many plans with the new place and did a ton of work our first summer (last year). People that came to visit said it looked like we lived there for years. Every year I have more plans and I take out more grass to plant flowers and vegetables. I cannot wait for later, I have to do what I can, now, while I can still do it. Keep on making videos and thank you for letting us into your lives. God Bless.

[@vannesareay9435]

When couples work together as God intended, amazing things happen. I watched as you built the cottage garden and the high tunnel and many other goals. Beautifully done and used. I have no doubt amazing, beautiful goals will be met here too. I was thinking of that table awhile ago and wondering the plan. How beautiful. And what a sweet beginning for those seedlings. God bless you as you bless us.

[@Guysguitars864]

South Carolina weather is crazy. I have watched it snow at 6 am and it's in the high 70s that afternoon. Glad I have found a somewhat local youtuber to me.

[@tesscurrier9166]

I can’t wait to see your beauty of a green house. It will be a stunner for sure.

[@mmegraham]

We had the idea of finding an old wooden rowboat, drilling holes in it, filling it with soil, and using it as a raised bed in our front yard. Could be fun for y'all to do!

[@joanneminer7046]

Jess please watch this episode in a quiet environment with an open mind & really listen as a new viewer to your channel, to all the good advice you are giving .You left an established farm with well established routines. When I first started watching your channel it was for the peaceful enjoyment of watching you grow food in your beautiful garden, coffee in hand.Now you have virgin acres of vast space to establish your forever home. In this episode you talk about in ground gardens, high tunnels , raised beds, amending soils, window greenhouse, barns other infrastructure , pigs, cut flowers, books, Abundance Plus, deadlines, timelines etc, etc. There is also mothering your family & self care. My head is spinning! I heard you mention this month you turn 36. Have your vision, shoot for the moon but enjoy the journey. You speak about 3 year plans & 5 year plans which are realistic. In this episode when you were talking about the window greenhouse & Jeremiah was standing behind you I could actually feel that big sigh of his. He loves you, he’s the yin to your yang, he’ll do anything to make all the dreams come true , just step back, take a breath and do it one step at a time. It will fall into place as each individual project is met. You have your lifetime together. I see your energy & understand your impatience .

[@krystaperry8186]

Sunflower Steve and Roots and Refuge?!?! I'm popping popcorn like it's movie night!

[@christineparsons4496]

To make the weeds go away faster for a new planting area, it will help to first use solarization, and then occultation. Take up the black tarps, and then after a good rain (or irrigate the area to encourage weed seed germination), place clear UV grade tarps over the area, make sure there are no air pockets/dig a trench and bury the edges. Leave it on to solarize for a few weeks/until the annual weed seeds have sprouted and died back and the perennial weeds begin to as well/for any stubborn ones they can be hand pulled after plastic removal. Then, for no-dig try not to disturb the soil for planting afterwards. To trap in moisture and cover the soil around the roots of crops, add-in any soil amendments and then lay out your black tarps (after irrigating if soil is dry) and plant crops after. The occultation process will then protect the soil from erosion after weed removal. I hope that helps.

[@jaynemar1]

I feel ya girl! December 5th 67 years December 20 Anniversary 47 years December 25 Christmas Day Our Lord & Savior

[@anonymixx8106]

Thanks for being you Jess. Learning your age makes me feel less hopeless about getting to a place like you're at in ten years.

[@deborahlawler6800]

Don't ever feel hopeless! I am 65 and starting over once again.

[@susansemple6008]

Oh Jess the struggles are real! This is the reality of my experience the voles ate most of my beautiful sweet potatoes and I had no idea until they were harvested. Love the music of the milk as it hits the bucket! Thank you for the sweet serenade!!

[@anbrdari]

I love watching your videos and learning lots. When Miah said he is dort rich it reminded me of a song. " buy dirt by Jordan Davis. " I have a nice garden and not homesteading but I still enjoy watching you all. I wish I had started years ago. There is nothing more exciting than growing your own food!

[@blessed4737]

ha miah,last nite i recited the entire book "green eggs and ham" when my daughter asked for a story and i was busy.the things you can do as a mom lol:)

[@sunnydayssandytoes4337]

Grass Rich!

[@jacqulinejackson4822]

O my I haven't been getting notifications sigh , at 71 , displaced hard to remember, so glad to see u on Justin's interview, when I get email , saw ur vision of small town, I am in awe

[@jacqulinejackson4822]

U all are the future of the new world coming for community service , bless u, sending love and light and many hands🚀🚀🚀🚀👏👏👏👏👏👍👍👍🎶🎶🎶🎶✔✔✔💋💋💋🌹🌹🌹🌹🌹💖💖💖💖💖

[@growjoyfullyhomestead]

What an exciting journey. A clean canvas to paint how you want and feel!❤🌹

[@jakebr8ke]

I totally understand how you feel about your garden and your plans. I have had knee problems and been crippled since January. My dream flower garden, all the seeds, tubers and bulbs I bought to plant remain unplanted. The weeds have run amok and I felt defeated. I’ve also come to realize that in God’s time it will get done. He has a plan for our gardens and when he’s ready for them to be done they will be. Stay true to your path and allow god’s plan to unfold before you! ❤️

[@ameliakat9982]

Jess you and Miah can do anything. One step at a time. You'll move mountains

[@qwerkieninja]

I found your channel a month or so ago and recently caught up to you having a new property. Please do not stop teaching. I absolutely love your style and love learning from your experiences. I knew jealous people were gunna be bitter but you can learn anything from people of any financial circumstance.

[@angelamiedema]

The very first thing to make me smile in this video was seeing Bob & Larry in your tree! Can't wait to show the kids in the morning they will be thrilled!

[@ingridskitchengarden]

Put the chickens in the place where the second tunnel will be. I think it be wise to plan for one tunnel and the window greenhouse. Then if you can get to the second tunnel it will be a bonus. Also when planning and building in my experience it always takes 3xs as long as I thought. Not for lack of trying but life circumstances come up. Enjoy your favorite month. Don’t forget to breath and relax. It will all come together.

[@janicegilman3292]

Happy December! We have had lots of snow and cold weather here in Anchorage Alaska and I am loving it!!! ❄️☃️❄️☃️❄️

[@TheIntuitiveBodyFoodieNetwork]

OM gosh, you're a Sagittarius!! Suddenly everything about you makes sense to me ... your love of nature, your ability to see & create beauty, gardening, big picture oriented, infinite creative dreaming, big plans, daring & fly by the seat of your pants, love of research & higher education, devotion to God, the need to teacher and be a lifelong learner. So Sagittarius!! I wouldn't be surprised to discover your birthday is either on the 9th or the 18th due to your artistic & creative nature.

[@OGKenG]

So, large balls of plasma in space control her behavior? Stars don't control you or determine who you are. Astrology isn't real.

[@paulhanson7329]

Sometimes you’re too close to see what’s happening. But this is turning out Really great! I can’t wait for the window building full of seedlings growing .

[@russo2392]

This spring will be my 3rd year gardening. I had some pretty significant plans on garden expansion for this coming spring/summer garden to start growing enough for preservation. Im now having to take a step back and contemplate what to continue on with and what needs to be put on hold for some more months because our fourth baby is due in may which is right when growing season kicks in for our area. We all have our seasons our growth and seasons of waiting.

[@perpetuityfarm5643]

Your plans sound beautiful, I'm so excited to see this space grow and transform into the romantic vision you have for it 💕 don't forget to enjoy the process 😉

[@KC-jq9kw]

Jess, you and your husband just do it how you need to do it. Follow your dreams and aspirations. I will be 50 on the 11th. I do not watch many things on here. I am a 100% disabled veteran and I worked until 2017. Just had 9 operations over 2.5 years, and I am a mess. I just bought a 1880's homestead in Ashland, Ohio in February. That is my dream home. It has the 2 front doors on the house, bank barn, and pole barn on 5.5 acres. I am slow, and can't do it all, but my boys are helping me out. I am raising heritage Red Wattle hogs that are on the Livestock Conservancy watch list. I have 3 gilts and a boar, with first litters due in February. I got them registered as 40 pounders so I could raise them myself. I put in a 1 acre pasture this summer. It took a month, but it got done. We built a chicken coop, got chickens, got a garden in and canned and froze our own food. I am converting the old barn from cows to serve us for hogs. They will be on pasture, but have access to the barn, and farrow in open pens inside. People get on me all the time, but I say screw them. They say I am too messed up to do it, it is too much for me, but I have others that support me and help me out when I have bigger things to do and need help. This is what keeps me going every day. You have to follow your dreams, and your heart Jess.

[@yankeedoodleaussie]

Jess, try giving your cow some cooking chocolate in with her grain at milking and you will be amazed at how it will boost her production. I used to give my cow 4 small pieces, about 100 grams, maybe abit less.

[@allisonosborne5881]

Oh huzzah!! Hope everyone is having a lovely day!

[@RevLetaLee]

My heart is full of gratitude. Having just moved to a new smaller home with room to garden, after years of no garden, I experience some of the same things you are talking about and I love the way you share your heart. That's the stuff that transcends the size, the shape, the goals even, of the process. It is inspiring. I don't have a partner to share the planning, he left the planet 20 years ago. But seeing the two of you working and planning together, reminds me that his love is always behind me, his words of support always still whispering in my ear. Thank you. You'll never know the part you have played in re-igniting my spirit now that my child raising is done and I'm in my third act. I think the greatest gift you share is that romance with your life, your loves, your god.

[@marilynnew2189]

You should make your greenhouse bigger than you think you might need, I encourage you to do this as you are a teacher and one needs room to teach!