The Crushing, The Downsizing & The Talk about Quitting | Sit and Chat

[@vonniemerriam974]

"If you've bitten off more than you can chew, it's OKAY to spit it out." Great words from a wise friend. ❤

[@blackrock5749]

❤❤❤

[@mbmiller1956]

@@vonniemerriam974 WISE WORDS … well said!

[@tamararobinson2069]

Right!!!😂❤

[@marlaherrington5320]

Love that you've decided to stick with the farm. I think farm living is the best. Nature makes wonderful adult men

[@littlecountrykitchen]

Anyone else notice the guinea fowls in her tomato beds? 😂

[@Artiekarns]

On my first child's birthday a friend came over and she said " well, today marks half the time you have left with David." I was confused. She went on to explain that at 18 most children essentially leave home. They go to college. Or they get a job and before long they want a place of their own. That was a shocker! The more I thought about it the more sad I became. He was JUST 9 years old. Why, he'd be gone next month if the second 9 years went by as fast. I learned a valuable lesson: The days are long but the years are short. TODAY is the DAY you have, make the most of it. Use your time with those you love, everything else can wait. Time flies whether you're having fun or not.

[@jimshirey2293]

Beth here and in my 60's ... Hear me when I say that 40 to 60 flies sooo much faster than 20 to 40 did 😞 I see my daughters, both in their 40's now, busting their butts like i did and I think, please stop and play with those babies 😢, even though I didn't. Enjoy your life and don't just survive it, YES! What a great revival for you 🥰

[@janinebrown2280]

A lot of truth right here🫶

[@debbiewenckowski4670]

I agree! 40 to 60 flew by. I had my first and only son when I was 38 and I am 58 now. He has just started his first of 6 years in university and I am shocked at how fast the time flew by. Enjoy the very short time you have with your kids, we don't get a re-do. My mom said that 60-80 flew by faster for her. Life is short. Make it count.

[@unnamed2737]

I’m still stuck in “turning 40” mindset and I’m now almost 50 wondering where the hell did my 40’s go????

[@sarahslovely08]

That country song “ You’re gonna miss this” my mom would always sing when she’d see me getting upset about another mess the kids made. She had such a calmness about her. I miss her so much 😢❤

[@SeekingEdenHomestead]

❤

[@carolreed5706]

Hi Jess & Miah. I subscribed to your channel when you were still in Arkansas and followed you during your move but then things changed and it didn't feel the same. THIS feels like the "old" Roots and Refuge! I don't normally make any comments but I wanted you to know how special you are and how I appreciate you and what you do! Blessings to you both and your family!🥰

[@kathleenmarkey6155]

I feel the same. I liked it better on a smaller scale because I could relate more. I honestly didn't watch for over a year because it all felt too big. I just popped on today because I was worried about you because of the storm. And then saw this video. Looking forward to your future content. Decluttering and downsizing, both in stuff and in time commitments, are high on my priority list at the moment. Small is beautiful. Bless your family.

[@bjwallick6933]

Thanks for this 😂message today.....I needed it. I'm 81 and re asesing my life. Had long covid and am re joining life ,a very changed life -style.😢😅😊

[@MadMax-op8pl]

I've made similar comments but also there was a period where Jess was dealing with health issues.

[@robinmarquez4299]

I totally agree. I have watched fewer and fewer of the vlogs as it was feeling very scattered and unfocused. Also I have no interest in vlogs about the Roastery and future 5 year plans on every video. I love the return to focus on family and food then add the rest around them.

[@MadMax-op8pl]

@robinmarquez4299 I do like hearing about the roastery and being inspired to reach for our dreams. Also being reminded that sometimes those things take time hence the 5 yr plan. I always heard things spiritual in nature need to be repeated. I think repetition is important and how so many people say they are directly affected and inspired by her.

[@elenaantunes1263]

Jess, you said you would be happy with a couple of goats, chickens, and grow enough food for your family. We'll, dearest Jess, do that! We love you and will love watching whatever you do. In fact, most of us can't relate to the scale you have. I'd personally appreciate more on low cost solutions for small scale homesteading. So glad you've decided to scale back. And when accounting for giving food away, invite those people to come help out at the farm too.❤

[@chrisward7928]

OMG I would love that!

[@unnamed2737]

Ditto!

[@michellecollier742]

I love this idea ,,, weekend workshops for seasonal gardening!!

[@francesahrens1578]

I’m one 75-year-old who finds MANY ‘ah ha’s’ for my own life from this post. THANK YOU!

[@nancycy9039]

Same here!

[@danacutler4989]

Jess and Miah, when the house didn’t work out this summer, I was honestly relieved for you. Your children will not remember the size of their bedroom, they will remember those amazing times with friends and family, playing ball, running around with all the farm animals and fishing in your pond. And most importantly, having so much one on one time with their parents. You’ve got this! Share your wisdom, but make sure you sustain your sanity! Sending love from VA!

[@danacutler4989]

Just getting to the point now of you saying you’re not building the house now. Good for you! The older I get, the more I realize the more you have, the more you have to worry about. Lower the inventory and lighten your load.

[@sissinoklahoma2057]

I'm so proud of you both. Literally taking Refuge in the Roots. You've stayed true to your goal even when it was growing outside of your capacity. Your kids are very blessed. Thank you for living in the glass house that mentors to the world.

[@dalila1955]

In the olden days farmers had lots of children whom helped out at a young age running the farms and it was a lot of hard work. Since you have a lot of children dont forget the amount of grandchildren you are going to get plus your childrens partners so I doubt you will ever have only two cups, two plates etc. to wash and that in itself is a blessing.

[@Lee_Tia]

So true

[@laniejones8747]

This may be one of the best videos you’ve ever made. Helping folks understand the importance of family and marriage in realizing the peace and happiness they are searching for is life changing for them. Thank you. 💙

[@mickalaloeffelbein4935]

I came here to say the same thing… best video I’ve ever watched from them. One day I hope to have the love and respect and teamwork with a partner that they have. My heart explodes watching them and their life. 💜

[@bethgaither1214]

Marriage and family are number ONE. I only wish more people in our country realized that. Pretty much, nothing else really matters. ❤

[@ceralamken6138]

100% agree! So very important!

[@JAMcRae]

Agreed. REALLY enjoyed this video

[@jasonmeasheaw4410]

Don't work your life to build a home, work your home to build a life ❤

[@archaprice3372]

I love that!

[@roxyperson8328]

Wow! I need that on my mirror.

[@jeffking6230]

You guys are two of the finest examples of what humans should be like Thank you for making us better

[@doulacoach6801]

💯

[@tonis7791]

I wholeheartedly agree

[@Sky-Child]

Oh yes! This

[@tracihood7095]

I love y’all so much and thank God for your witness and your honesty. Keep shining His light and love and showing others how to steward His gifts. Oh, I love the farming, cooking, gardening, woodworking content, too! ❤

[@jodymooney255]

I so agree!

[@Ourlittlefunnyfarm]

We have been on our little 8 acre homestead just over 3 years. My husband got sick and had to start dialysis a year ago- and was blessed with a kidney transplant just over a month ago. All of our plans came to a screeching halt. We busted our butts to make a lot of progress with multiple projects our first couple of years here. I still work full time, but quite suddenly my husband was no longer able to work. We still have a garden, chickens, ducks, dogs and cats. So many projects that we had planned to tackle- major and minor home repairs, renovation of a 2nd home on the property, building infrastructure, plus just the everyday upkeep of home and land- suddenly our priorities shifted with less income, less time and less physical ability. It’s been a tremendous change of mind set and plans. We have always been driven, results oriented with ability to get a ton done. We’ve spent the last year saying “no” to a million things. Our family and friends often say things like- “You should get goats… or cattle… or pigs… etc. or plan trips or whatever- only because they are used to us being ready to jump in with both feet. We are in our late 50’s/early 60’s. I have come to grips with almost losing my husband. I will not worry about the kitchen renovation, it will happen when it happens. I might add a couple of goats or put up a little greenhouse, but again maybe not 🤷🏼‍♀️. But really trying to remember to be content with what we have, manage it well and enjoy the time we have together and with our kids and grandkids. My prayer is for God to grant me the peace to live a life that honors Him, a life of contentment no matter what and gratitude for more time with my husband and all we are blessed with. ❤

[@archaprice3372]

Praise God for your husband’s organ transplant. In the last two years you now have a new NORMAL. God bless your as you traverse your new path prayerfully together.

[@tamararobinson2069]

In today’s economy a lot of KZbinrs have outgrown any connection I had with them & learning from them. THIS This what you’re talking about is so much more real and inspiring. Thank you for being real not just real you but I feel you’re more connected to the majority of us all🥰❤

[@hannahkirby8554]

Pastors wife, mother of four, working a full time job and homeschooling… I have been struggling HARD the last few months. This video was for me. Thank you for reminding me that others are dancing the dance of life and striving to do the best we can with what we have. Thank you for always speaking straight to my soul.

[@danarzechula3769]

Bless you may the seeds you sow bloom and grow❤

[@angelaraum1545]

I understand this so much. I applaud that you've been able to do all that. Lord shows us to slow down. My late husband passed ( was disabled for about 10 yrs) had so much stress/trauma from it. Lord showed me to slow down. Stopped doing overtime. Couldn't since nobody was available to watch Sp need child. Felt I haven't dealt with his passing. Well the Lord found a way to slow me down. Injury at work. Lots of time off.

[@clarissaf3521]

I can really relate! Married Mom of 2, working full time and homeschool so started in real estate in an effort to ultimately work less which became working TWO jobs instead. I’ve been at my breaking point for a while and I can’t say enough how listening to this beautiful couple calms my soul, makes me realize the human condition is actually quite common and they just so eloquently put into words what I can’t!!! You got this Momma!!

[@ItsKentuckyNaNasLife]

❤❤❤

[@sydneykasmar]

"No dream is worth breaking the foundation." Best words ever. I'm glad you both worked through this and created a new path forward that you're enthused about.

[@melissadeegan6981]

It really just boils down to quality of life rather than quantity and allowing yourself grace to realize and embrace that.

[@LemonsandLarkspur]

I miss the smaller garden tours. They shined through your eyes! The love of gardening was so transparent and inspirational.

[@oursimplelife5984]

Those videos are what made me fall in love with gardening. I learned so much from Jess in the year BEFORE covid and was prepared with my first garden when everything shut down.

[@gretchenpaffe1295]

Me too ❤ I'm happy for their success but do miss the smaller venue. It wasn't as overwhelming for them.

[@laurenlayla9258]

Agreed. Those were my favorite.

[@GMarieWrites]

Same here - I’ve almost completely stopped watching Roots and Refuge because it stopped being relatable. I can see myself growing fruits and vegetables, but really don’t see myself involved with meat or dairy farming so the more they showcased the farm animals the less I watched. I miss the older Roots and Refuge. I do want them to do what’s best for them.

[@GreenWitchHomestead]

Just curious if you guys consider how what you put forth might make Jess feel? She loves her garden. And her home. And she is so very proud of the hard work she put in to achieve what she has. And u think it's OK to tell her "I liked you better when you were less then what you wanted to be" Do you truly not comprehend how selfish that is?

[@babciaknows]

Why did I have tears dripping down my face this entire testimony? Because it is REAL. Thank you for being a witness for the rest of us - I needed this message in my life.❤

[@kkeenan536]

When you moved and immediately jumped into so many “pots”; numerous, huge gardens, dairy cows, beef cattle, greenhouse, town businesses, etc. on top of having a bunch of kids, I didn’t see how you could keep up physically, mentally, or emotionally. Relieved for y’all 🕊

[@mbmiller1956]

@@kkeenan536 SAME! Something had to GIVE. So glad for this turn of events!!

[@jane.closeyoureyesandthink6064]

I felt the same way

[@lynnpurfield9430]

I felt the same way but you know, all cultures have individual conditioning and America has this "go bigger" conditioning to show how abundant life can be. I have a dear friend in Michigan who is trapped in this at present but my words can't reach because I am a failure...being so lacking in ambition.

[@laurenlayla9258]

Agreed.

[@conniemcgehee2851]

yes

[@devsnik7003]

Feeling the sunk cost fallacy and turning away and saying NO is one of the hardest things we have to do as human beings. Proud of you both ❤

[@JazzlynStarrMusic]

I love when Miah shared that he missed his horses, and started riding again. 🤍

[@debbiejackson7846]

Yessss

[@abundantpeacegrowinggarden2250]

I am surprised it took so long. Since your move I have been amazed at the amount of things you have continued to take on. And the temporary living, Ibhave felt. I have lived in our "temporary" home forn16 years. I did finally purge and reorganize and, man! What a great feeling. I love that you all look at your needs, listen to each other and make hard decisions.

[@lindak3030]

You don't owe anyone anything. You can not use your property "to the fullest", and that's ok. You aren't obligated to do that. I had to really give myself permission to not do a whole bunch of things this summer. Tomato's went into the freezer instead of being canned. I have peppers shrivveling up on the counter instead of frementing for hot sauce. I have about 200 eggs that are headed to the compost pile instead of being freeze dried. Didn't pick a single grape....it's ok. The birds and insects ate the grapes, the soil is going to be enriched with the eggs. Next year's another year.

[@ashleynewhard7460]

Yup, I've got a whole bowl of peppers shriveling in the fridge,tomatoes rotting on e vine, . . . (I don't even want to talk about the rest). I have a snippet of a video in my head where Jess pointed out some rotting veggies (and said that she'd gotten flack for not donating them to a food pantry) and just honestly admitted that she was out of capacity to pick and donate them. Grace. It's ok. The world doesn't end when I fall short. Boy am I glad of that!

[@GilgalFarmstead]

Yes! I’ve had a very similar summer. And I just had to be ok with it.

[@ItsKentuckyNaNasLife]

❤❤❤

[@ItsKentuckyNaNasLife]

​@@ashleynewhard7460❤❤❤❤

[@Thecapeonthecorner]

Jess, I'm so glad you've made this decision. There is such a catch 22 with being content creators. Don't lose sight of what brought you the success in your channel. It was that you were 'relatable'. The size of what you grew and did in Arkansas "spoke" to your audience. The channel can "provide" for so much more financially, but I'm so glad you're scaling back to be more relatable to your audience again. If you had built the "BIG HOME" you would have lost much of your audience, in my humble opinion.

[@archaprice3372]

I agree wholeheartedly

[@ariannevanslyke2959]

Love that you choose to share all of this. Unpopular opinion: I would consume your content much more if there was more of you showing how you do things than just an overview of what you're doing. I love seeing the varieties in the garden and I've bought a lot of what you've shared but if I don't know what to do with it, it's worthless. I miss you explaining how to can or how to milk a goat or a day in the life in how you balance parenting and farming. I miss the how to and how you feed your family content. New subscribers might not know the difference but long time viewers might. Love you guys 🩵

[@davem163]

If success doesn’t include happy, it’s not worth having God bless you two

[@rayyoung7780]

Wow, you two. Great stuff. As an old guy (80) I think I am seeing a world that really needs to hear the discussion you just had with us. Thanks for having the courage ( yes it takes courage..I think you called it taking a risk ) to do this. Many will benefit.

[@tinatippin5705]

Thanks. I totally agree with you. Such an important conversation.

[@tonis7791]

Yes!!!

[@ItsKentuckyNaNasLife]

❤❤❤

[@katherinebelk8398]

There's no shame in re-evaluating your situation and decided to go a different way. I wish more people could accept that ❤

[@SeedTimeHarvest7]

Jeremiah This was for me. I have lived five years in a temporary space and recently the Lord started dealing with me about stewardship. My teeny tiny home is better now that I live here intentionally. My garden my car my space is where I am right now. I’m not depressed about it anymore. Y’all’s chat just took me to the next level. Thank you🥰

[@Rockytophomestead1206]

You are one of the most common sense couple I know. I love how you actually communicate, examine and come up with a solution TOGETHER. There are so many people who don’t have that ability or trust in each other to think they can do that as well. I think you’re on the right track.

[@christinacallies4086]

Sometimes I go back and watch your old garden tours in AK because the pure joy of walking through your garden talking about each variety of tomatoes is so inspiring. I love your content in any capacity but I’m so glad you’re prioritizing your why ❤ all the love to your family!

[@sparrowsknow8491]

I do this almost every night lol. I love the old videos not that I don’t love the new ones, but something about those old Ones really bring me peace

[@unnamed2737]

@@sparrowsknow8491me too but I can relate more to the old ones. My yard is so tiny that their old homestead is the dream I aspire for and their farm just seems completely unattainable for me. I love watching videos about the animals but I’ll unfortunately never have that in my life. Videos in the garden though help bring me peace because it’s so much closer to reality for me.

[@plantlady328]

YES!!! This!!! Me too!!!

[@cgilly1858]

I was thinking about all the excess you had and how it seemed stressful - I think it would make more sense to grow more of what you need to be able to feed your family and your animals. Is it possible to grow the grain or the other things you need to purchase?

[@MarcieBelle100]

I think it's fine to downsize and enjoy life and your family! That's what's most important. I personally enjoy all of your old garden videos as well back when you had your small garden and telling me how to grow a tomato. I think we all relate to that better than the videos now. Find your purpose, find your peace and enjoy it! God Bless! ❤

[@melissakinney4076]

Seriously, I have never been more happy for u guys….☺️. One of my fav videos to date.

[@charmainemrtnz]

The slide from 40 to 60 happens even faster Jess! Enjoy your children while you have them.

[@lorrievance9343]

Gosh, that comment just made me shed some tears. Almost 50 and all I can think about is how fast 70 is going to get here ❤

[@charmainemrtnz]

@@lorrievance9343 i’m about to turn 65 in December and can hardly remember what I’ve done for the last 20 years. I have three children ages 38, 39, 41. They’re so busy with their lives. I’m really proud of all of them! I did OK for the most part. I just wished I could go back a little little bit. Some days.

[@ldpetchell]

Agreed. I don't know where the years from 50 to 60 went. It was a blur. A good blur, but a blur.

[@danarzechula3769]

Amen

[@carlynsykes6053]

I’ve enjoyed the video, the whole long thing, lol. It’s hit the spot perfectly, I’m currently in a place of overwhelm and auditing and trying to re-center and re-balance. Recognizing that we’re trying to live in our treehouse before the tree has grown to size. Thank you sharing so openly and honestly.

[@ItsKentuckyNaNasLife]

❤❤❤

[@ABCD-si7px]

Something I have seen over and over again is people get the dream house and lose the family. You guys made a wise choice.

[@soymilkmuse]

We entered the empty nest phase this year. We also had a lot of loss, a lot of family needs, and just plain "getting through it". Thank you for this video! It made me laugh, cry, and think about things. You two are so special, and I appreciate you. ❤

[@whispersofwillowpixi]

💚Jess, without ever having met you. You have been one of my brightest guiding lights. Thank you. 💜

[@becky5427]

I love my home, I love that my kids now bring their kids to play and enjoy where they grew up. Time with your family is number one most important thing you can do. Make the memories!

[@MsJay0913]

When Miah talked about how you were sitting there waiting when he woke up the next morning, all I could think was "I pray I have someone who is as accepting of my overwhelming (somewhat anxious) excitement as he is of yours... And that I can offer that too." There's nothing like feeling free to be yourself with someone who truly loves you and whom you truly love.

[@doulacoach6801]

Amen!

[@tiyameri4442]

I missed seeing you do the old stuff because you were so happy back then and it felt you were much closer as a family. The last couple of seasons felt like it was going commercial. I’m happy to hear you’re going back to your roots which is why we fell in love with you and your family. Side note on security: I hope you also build a backup system for your electricity needs. Most systems rely on it and if you lose it for long periods of time then your systems can go haywire.

[@AnitaHardy-q3t]

Showing your assessment process is so very important. Most people never really assess the direction life is taking them and have no idea how to do it. I consider this video to be one of the single best discussions ever! Thank you!

[@elsan2328]

Somehow, no matter how different our respective seasons in life are, you always manage to say what I need to hear.

[@SharonPack-ju7js]

You both have finally figured it all out. Lovely plan. Just wonderful..... Slow and steady wins the race. stop and smell the roses, all that. Oh there is one more. Don't blink your kids will be grown before you know it. God Bless. Enjoy your family. Love Love.

[@denisehoog3019]

I am not surprised by this video. I've watched you from the beginning, (the second time) and I remember you always have wanted to teach us. The bigger you have gotten the less time you had to teach. My husband and I, are the smaller scale you described, the small house, a few chickens, a few goats and a garden. The bigger you got, the less I could relate to your channel. I'm so glad to see you come back to the basics. I love watching! Thank you for being such good leaders and teachers for homestead life, relationships and most of all faith in God. ❤️

[@archaprice3372]

You said what I’ve been thinking

[@sherryberryr]

It becomes more difficult every day to find honest and heartfelt content, so I'm sure your "sit & chat" was well received by many (me included). Thank you!

[@Paula-gh4ix]

Oh Jess! I’m so relieved! I think a lot of us saw it, we knew there was so much that needed your focus and you were stretched thin. I’m hate that it happened the way it did, but I’m so glad yall are resetting! Yall need to be nourished and sustained too!❤

[@PatTOrmond]

I am a 78 great grandmother who grew up on a farm in Georgia and I have enjoyed watching you for years. I am glad to see you realizing what is most important - family. They grow so quick that before you know it you have raised or help raise three generations. I will admit that I was missing your more deeply gardening videos that you used to do. Keep up the good work. Best to you and yours.

[@donnamartindale4121]

I’m so relieved that you’re not leaving you tube. Thank you. I love your new plans. I would like to see more of you Jess, working with your animals or just enjoying them. Thanks to you and your family for being real and sharing your life with us.

[@RobbieAndGaryGardeningEasy]

We try to pace ourselves with Gardening and Hummingbirds, but many times we over do too, and Gary and I can relate in some ways. Continue to do what you Love, that’s what we do. ❤

[@susanlindahl6951]

Your gift far surpasses gardening, which has launched my love for the same. Your presence, style and insight (and love for coffee) grounds me at a time when the world has gone mad. I feel at peace knowing your motives are so honest and pure. Thank you.

[@marycountry]

This video is so enlightening. I am so glad you have chosen to do this while you are young. I am 74 and wished I could have had this knowledge and Teaching multiple times over the decades. May God continue to Bless your family. P.S. Jess I want to be the first to see your Book of Poem’s 😊❤️🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏

[@ljgerken]

I had been wondering for about the last two years of watching your videos, when you would finally get to this state. It started when you did the video of the new store and all the big plans you had for downtown. I knew then that there's not enough hours in a day to do that much without employing lots of people. You were going to realize that that wasn't going to make you happiest. You had been successful, but left the happy behind. Success is getting what you want, and happiness is wanting what you get. You now see the second part more clearly now. Now, get the balance of the two going, and you will have it all!

[@archaprice3372]

“Happiness is wanting what you get”. WOW!!!

[@kachermeyersvideos]

Thanks for choosing us. You have been a big inspiration to me and I was scared that was going to go away. But I'm happy you're staying to be a mentor to us.

[@emarshalls2742]

Oh Jess and Miah! Its such a joy to see two people working through the hard stuff to the glory of God. Your wisdom is overflowing...and teaching all of us. Thank you!

[@joycepray1364]

For what it’s worth, when you all moved from Arkansas, you expanded very quickly . It’s good to assess what’s working for you and what’s not. Love you sharing your journey.

[@normahl9086]

You’ve spent the money, you’ve learned the systems for when you are able to build the home you need for your future. You dream big, living smaller will leave room for those dreams. My mother never worried about plans, she said ‘Man proposes, but God disposes’, but she took opportunities as they arose.

[@betha2396]

Can't wait for more coffee/fireside chat. I don't have a homestead and never want one, but I've watched you guys for years, and I'm so happy you're doing what you need to to be happy in your space.

[@bee_marya]

I just realized you said you feed cows grain. Wow, I'm 36, my grandma kept cows all her life, they never fed them grain. Grass fields and hay in winter. Maybe some grain (what's left from chickens), but nothing major. Some yummy apples. And juicy bindweed "berezka", twice a day during milking, at 5am and at 9pm. My grandpa weeded neighbors gardens, win-win for everybody, it was a goal to bring two bags of bindweed. God, I miss those times 😢

[@tonisorrells4365]

As a 65 yr old, I think ya’ll are making really good decisions. Kids are grown in a flash, so enjoy them. My oldest daughter which is 45, says making family memories trumps anything else. 😊

[@janh519]

You have a beautiful home, a huge garden, plus extra patches to grow extra veggies! You have a gorgeous pasture and barn for your animals with lots of amazing animals! You are much more amazing than most! Enjoy the things you like to do and to love your family where you live!

[@urbsoapco5489]

I always missed your smaller homestead Jess. I kept watching because I love to keep up and I was happy that you were achieving everything you wanted. I think that downsizing is a fantastic idea……..”time to stop and smell the roses”. Sending love from the UK. Xxxx

[@bernicehoggsfav]

The most beautiful thing about your channel is seeing your relationship.

[@ValerieinSC]

From somebody who is further down the road of life and motherhood than you are, you’re making great decisions. Valerie in SC

[@JCGIncorporated]

You want to show people how to attain food security and that’s great. But showing people how to attain a family with balanced values is priceless.

[@rhondaschenk5727]

Jess, you and Miah are so brutally transparent with us, thank you. It’s so true that our children are in our life, under our roof, for such a short period of time. Bravo to you guys for auditing and determining priorities. Thank you for sharing with us. You guys are the best! ❤

[@panko97]

You are talking to me. Always living in the “when this happens”. You touched my heart. Whatever you give up or scale down please don’t stop selling your coffee. I’d be lost. ❤😂Thank you for guiding me back home.

[@rilyb4033]

You have no idea how much the timing of this video is relevant in my life currently. Thank you for sharing with so much vulnerability and transparency. Truly appreciate both of you more than you know. ❤

[@themossfamilyfarm991]

I don’t ever comment. I love and have loved yalls channel for years. When you said you didn’t know why you were making this video, just know that this video impacted me more than any video I have watched on this channel (and believe me I loveee watching your channel) our family is very different from yours but very similar at the same time. We are currently in the same season of downsizing and re-prioritizigg by, and decided not to build on our raw land. And every single thing here hit home for me. This helped me to validate all of my feelings of failure and helped me to push forward on focusing our lives more on our family and being present for all of the things each person truly needs for their lives in this season. Thank you so much.

[@amandamincey2875]

I am a long term viewer of your channel but haven't commented. We started a garden two years ago and I found you from one of your old videos about how to prune and tomato and instantly got hooked on your incredible content. Thank you for being you and sharing the best and realness of yourselves with all of us.

[@BTatNWD]

I’m drinking my Beulah coffee in my chicken face mug… I’m ready for this chat!!! 😊

[@donnahowarth4524]

You two are wise beyond your years.thank you for sharing your journey.

[@emilyemm8460]

“This is for…somebody.” Damn, that hit me hard. It was for me, Miah. And many others I’m sure, but that line alone, uttered more than an hour into the video, has burrowed itself into my heart, and I will carry it with me. We love you guys.

[@susanwright3843]

I believe that the human race has expanded too far beyond it's natural boundaries. We do so much, have accomplished so much, sometimes have gone too far, and we've passed up nature and the natural way of life. Like a pendulum, some of us are starting swing back in the other direction. I can't tell you how many people I've heard lately say (me included) they're in a process of reevaluating lives, defining values, drawing boundaries, simplifying their lives, and are starting to live intentionally. We get SO distracted by outside influences that pull us from our center. It's time to come back to the home that is inside of us. Thank you for being open and vulnerable. 💜

[@TheJsttzn]

Agreed. .y husband and I recently scaled back plans to expand a shop because we realized it's a want not a need and we should be appreciative of what we have and make the most of it rather than the constant expanding and building.

[@reneecandelaria5141]

Hey you guys, keep 2 cows, 2 goats, 2 geese, 10 chickens, 2 pigs, 2 gardens with top 10 plants you like to eat, etc. Simple, fun, and plenty enough! Love you guys!❤

[@lamgardn3800]

Well, I didn't think my respect or admiration for the two of you could grow any stronger, yet it just did. Thank you for sharing your life, your process, your hearts!

[@gaitedtrailsfarmandlonghor8986]

I have not produced a video in over a year. Health has had us down. Small garden. Just dragging by for the 2 of us. We are now on the up hill swing. We are doing us what we have. Love you. Stay on your course.

[@lorassorkin]

It's not true for everyone that graying hair was earned by achieving wisdom. But for you two, I think you nailed it. I truly already see that downsizing outdated dreams has been liberating for you both. I also admire how well you work as a unit, especially in the most difficult of times.

[@wildflowersgardenandapiary]

Always give yourself grace to change any plans you have made, no matter who you have shared ideas with.

[@HilltopFarmHomestead]

Oh guys! I'm so so happy that you've come to this decision. I don't want to be that guy but as an outsider I've seen this coming for at least two years. I said to my wife a long while ago that you were taking on too much, your farm was growing too fast. I've been frightened for what the future held for you guys. As I say I'm thrilled that you're dealing with it before it broke you. I can't stop smiling. My wife and I have been through a similar thing and you don't realise how unhappy you were until you focus on what really matters. I wish you and your family all the very best.

[@jamenne]

I totally agree with your comment. I felt the same way too, but I was afraid to say anything because I thought it was just me.

[@HilltopFarmHomestead]

@@jamenne at the end of the day it's not my place to say anything, but I'm thrilled that they worked it out for themselves.

[@archaprice3372]

@@jamenneme also

[@nurseattle]

Your love of each other and your children is far more important than more…. Anything. The fact that you can recognize it, accept it, and move forward happily is exceptional. I admire you very much. Happy life to you. ❤

[@sherryb8191]

Once again, I have SO MANY things I want to say but it would take too long 😉. So I'll just summarize: Thank you for the video. I feel more at peace seeing you more at peace ❤

[@sarahbatta3928]

Jess and Miah, You guys, every time, have a way of being us all back into focus about what REALLY matters. And you always amaze me with your transparency and vulnerability to say it’s ok to change your plans!

[@AlmostaGreenAcre-zs5eu]

A number of months ago you did a video Jess, talking about the new home you would be building and having a walk in large refrigerator, to store bounty from your garden and how excited you were about that. I didn't say anything at the time but I thought to myself, why haven't you build that where you are now and move the walk in refrigerator built on, when the house gets built..........thanks for sharing your life, vision and direction of what's important in your life ❤I also had the opportunity to go back and watch many of your older videos and honestly, I miss seeing Miah's smiles. You used to smile so much more in the older videos than you do now Miah and I think these changes may bring your smile back again. I listened to you pour your heart out in a video not long ago about the shop build and thought to myself, okay, maybe now his smile will come back, but this video tonight answers so much. Knowing that you all felt like you were living in a temporary life, until something else happens............I'm happy to hear your heart sharing contentment and gratitude. Thank you for sharing that with us all.

[@patriciaglidden5070]

So appreciate you sharing your trials and triumphs, your commitment to love, to service and to transparency. You have inspired me to be a better gardener and human being. Bless you. 💜

[@SageandStoneHomestead]

Goat's milk colby cheese is SO GOOD and melty, sliceable and wonderful. Jess I want you to make cheese too!!!

[@Ashley-s3k]

"Pivoting", "grace" and "growth". What a great video Jess and Mia. I watched the whole hour and 10 minutes of it and I appreciate your transparency 😁👌 in the end, God has a plan.

[@kittyrichards9915]

Classes and hosting people - you are adding to an already full plate - again.

[@janiceneedham8464]

Most of us started watching you for guidance and inspiration. But we now watch you both because we are in awe of who you are and how you manage your life and love those in it. You both deserve the best life and I have enjoyed watching and learning from you.

[@kimoverpeck1065]

I watched until the end. Loved every minute. I’m 53 and all my kids are grown and gone… and I’d give anything to have some of those years back to play more, love more, and make more memories. So excited that the Refiner turned up the heat of the fire to purify your intentions to align with the Divine dreams in your heart. Pure gold! I’m not even a homesteader or even have a garden… but I devour your content, however small or silly. I love watching you sip coffee in your kitchen just as much as learning how to prune tomatoes. Anything you share is delightful as long as you’re delighted to share it. Thank you for these raw, real, authentic chats. Love you and Miah and your family. ✨🤍

[@tigq1430]

Ahh, the moments of clarity are a beautiful moment in time. It's actually the moments when you see that clarity and act on it accordingly.

[@hazzardoustime1968]

I firmly believe you are here to inspire others to live a healthier, happier life. I’m nearly 60 years old, but you are teaching me something new with every video. Watching you with your family, and listening to your introspective words, inspires me to be a better mom (19 year old daughter) and wife (married 34 years today). You have made a difference in my life and my family’s, a positive, profound difference. Thank you both for what you do. I so appreciate all your efforts. I wish I was close enough to help you when things get hard.

[@RootsandRefugeFarm]

Happy anniversary ♥️♥️

[@hazzardoustime1968]

@@RootsandRefugeFarm Thank you! I’d like to share something more personal with you, something I feel that I am meant to share with you. I was feeling really down for a time, so when going to bed, I prayed that God would come and share his love in a way that I could directly feel it. My mom had told me how she felt God wrap his arms around her once when she was very upset, so I was thinking along those lines. Well, while I slept, I dreamed I met you and shared a long and heartfelt conversation with you. You were accepting and kind and liked me just as I was, and I woke up feeling so profoundly accepted and loved. Such a sense of well-being. Then, it hit me, God used your visage to share his love with me. That is remarkable. We are created in his image. His love shines through you. I just needed to tell you about my experience. It is hard to convey how profound it was. I thought you might understand or, perhaps, you need to hear this for some reason. Thank you again for all you do and your words. You have a lot of wisdom to share, and give Jeremiah a fist bump for loving Tolkien.

[@archaprice3372]

@@hazzardoustime1968 I am very impressed by your experience! Awesome

[@texashulabear6120]

A lot of us with an overblown sense of responsibility and accountability have a hard time "disappointing" friends, family, coworkers, (and viewers), when we change our minds. I've always blamed it on my "first-born syndrome" hahaha! God bless you and your family and thank you for all of the knowledge and encouragement I have received from your important channel. I mean that!

[@thisismyname3328]

I think this chat perfectly encapsulates the sacrifice farming parents make. It's always a balance. This is why it takes a village to make raise a family.

[@bloomingpetals9290]

It’s funny that you mention scaling back. Your overall channel was starting to feel “too much”! The garden seemed “too much”! It was a feeling I had that I didn’t understand until you posted this video. I get it, reassessing things is always healthy because it allows us to stay on track.

[@bdrummond5414]

Sunday, the pastor talked about this… Monday, I listed to a podcast that touched on this (honey, I’m a homemaker). Tuesday (this morning), I’m listening to Jess and Miah talk about this. There are no coincidences in life! It’s been on my mind for a while and to hear it now in 3 perspectives with the same message… it’s time to implement the changes in me for my family’s life!

[@alyssaAG3]

As a 27 year old newish wife and mom who is trying to fight against the distractions of this world, hearing you guys talking through this last season provides so much wisdom to me. Thank you ❤

[@lexiehret1980]

Thank you for living in a glass house and showing us you don't have to do it all. I hope you find relief in this season and soak up all those precious moments with your family

[@juliepuhr9806]

what is beautiful about this video is that you both reevaluate your lives.

[@peggybrowne6012]

I'm always interested in what you have to say! I think it is wonderful to watch you reassess and switch things up, placing the greatest value always on your family. You are an inspiration.

[@scaldwell7784]

thank you for your honesty and transparency in all things. you show the PROCESS in everything, whether that be gardening, farming, problem solving, dreaming, fixing, healing, living and loving. showing us the work behind the curtain is the greatest gift you give us