The Downsides of Life in a Rural Cottage - and why I need a change

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The Downsides of Life in a Rural Cottage - and why I need a change
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It was time for a change. I have found myself not feeling as satisfied with my current work situation, I lacked a feeling of purpose that I always had before when working with children. As it’s tricky simply to start a new job short notice, so I will be working in town for the next several months as holiday help and plan from there. It is a much needed shift to a more social environment, and hopefully a greater work/life balance. I find it very hard to divide work from personal life at home, so I think this will have a wonderful affect on my mental health as well.
In this video I am sharing some less-than-ideal aspects of living rurally (for me, it may not be the case for someone else). In connection, I wanted to explain why I do not live off grid, and what downsides you may - perhaps - face if you do (which is the reason I live near town). I forgot to mention that I do not have the wish, time to commit, nor the funds to live off grid. It can be very expensive to buy land, build a house, and set up a survival system. I only rent my cottage and am not yet in the position to buy a home, much less build one (the lumber prices lately are insane!). Most people I personally know who live off grid in my valley work remotely so that they can have a flexible schedule, and that is something that I certainly cannot do with my current job. Hope that clarifies things for anyone who was curious! Thank you very much
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[@TheGeekMonster]

There is still so much misunderstanding surrounding introverted personalities. Introverts are not anti-social, nor do they hate or dislike people or relationships. They simply need less than extroverts, and they tend to invest much more deeply in the relationships that they do cultivate. Rather than enjoy a large variety of casual friendships, they seek out people that they feel a deeper, soul connection to, and then they cherish those fewer, closer relationships like a treasure. We may be sated with fewer conversations or interactions, but we tend to value and relish them more profoundly and reverently.

[@TheGeekMonster]

@Little fairy Annika Of course, I'd be flattered! I'm happy that my words touched someone :)

[@catherineshaw1122]

Most people have conflated introvert with shy and extrovert with outgoing. Carl Jung's original theory solely referred to how one recharges their battery. Introverts so do via solitude, but are often quite outgoing. That's me. Conversely my husband is a shy, quiet extrovert, who gets energy via socialising.

[@debbietodd8547]

So well said.....If extroverts could just PLEASE refrain from trying to convert the introverts in your world like we have a disease that needs fixing! My experience with this whether its school or the workplace has been mostly very negative and hard on my health over the years. We definitely need way more quiet/down time and tire much more quickly. Don't DRAW me out and embarrass me/make a spectacle of me please......Funny thing is that the world is rarely trying to FIX the extroverts out there.

[@dandeliondreamer333]

Beautifully said. ❤

[@jadejade5303]

Wow. Finally someone know how exactly i feel that i could never find the words to express it. Thank you

[@TheCottageFairy]

More details ⬇️ It was time for a change. I have found myself not feeling as satisfied with life in my current work situation, I lacked a feeling of purpose that I always had before when working with children. I am introverted and desperately NEED time alone, but I found that too much also makes me feel unbalanced. As it’s tricky simply to start a new job short notice, I will be working in town for the next several months as holiday help and plan from there. It is a much needed shift to a more social environment, and hopefully a greater work/life balance. I find it very hard to divide work from personal life at home, so I think this will have a wonderful affect on my mental health as well ❤️ I hope to re-open my Etsy shop in 2021 and take only a small amount of sales each week, so that I can keep a balance with my new job. In this video I am sharing some less-than-ideal aspects of living rurally (for me, it may not be the case for someone else). In connection, I wanted to explain why I do not live off grid and the reason I live near town). I forgot to mention that I do not have the wish, time to commit, nor the funds to live off grid. It can be expensive to buy land in my area, build a house, and set up a survival system. I only rent my cottage and am not yet in the position to buy a home, much less build one (the lumber prices lately are insane!). Most people I personally know who live off grid in my valley work remotely so that they can have a flexible schedule, and that is something that I certainly cannot do with my current job. I’m sure there are people who have found low-cost ways to live off grid and do not feel isolated - this is just my own experience in my local area. It is a tourist hotspot and land is very expensive and off-grid locations are very far from town. It is not something that works for me, but it may for you. Hope that clarifies things for anyone who was curious! Lastly, you may not find the diversity of population in the countryside you may enjoy in the city. In my case, there is a substantial Hispanic population in this area and my family felt very welcomed, but that is not always the case. My parents, being a multi-racial couple, have faced periodic challenges being accepted everywhere we have lived, in the city and otherwise. We have loved our little town and made many close connections, but everyone experiences things differently. Maybe this is helpful to someone, I appreciate you being here - thank you very much

[@nennepanrikefairytaleart4773]

Inspiring message, as always, dear one!

[@carolyndymond5521]

@@Handlebrake2 how could she be rich by now she works and rents a place and also has bills to pay. And she's only in her early 20s I have yet to meet a young person who has a lot of money when running their own place, that's why she is doing her etsy shop to save money.

[@anastrawberry8047]

Hello Paola! Thank you for this video, this message you wrote and your openness. Yes, it has helped me...now I am reflecting about what I want. I am going to watch it again. When you say you are 15 min away to the town, you mean by car? I think I would like to live rural, BUT 15 min maximum walking distance (much better if it’s 5) to the closest “Village”, (and with village I mean between 500-3000 inhabitants). And then driving to a town, with like 200.000- 300.000 inhabitants. Now I am in the center of Madrid. That makes me want to live in the middle of nowhere with nobody around, only nature. But I know I say this because now I’m in the middle of the cement, surrounded by buildings, and noise, and people,... I’m sure after one day in the middle of nowhere and another day and another day another day...I’ll become too lonely... or crazy...or maybe not, I have never tried it. In you case, how big is you town? Inhabitants? Or is it Seattle? Un abrazo muy grande desde España, Gracias por compartir con tanta sinceridad y por el arte que tienes! 💗

[@kristinaatgreenmeadowswede6714]

Thank you Paola! This was the video I needed this morning. So many thoughts have been running through my head. Since the end of August when I had to leave my preschool teaching work, I have made a lotof thinking about what will be happening for me in the future.. My teaching work has been my life and love for 25 years. I also love my home and the location where I live. And I don't really want to leave from here, but with all the changes going on in my life, it is possible I have to do that.... Being on my 57th year of age this is for me a very scary thing to do and the fear for the unknown is sky high . Because, I have had a safe employment for so many years , I didn't have to worry about what to do next.... Your video today made me realise a few things. So thank you for opening my eyes even wider and make me let go of the fear for the future... Wish you allthe best for YOUR future Paola. Marriage, new work and a new location they will do you good and might even increase your beautiful creativity! Being a book seller is a wonderful way to earn the money needed, especially when one is a very big book lover like you. Me I would love to work in a book store. Books are a big part of my life and I have a few that I would certainly rescue if there was a fire in my home! Lots of love from Sweden🇸🇪 and belive theat the best will happen in the future you soon will meet! 💖🙏🏻💖🙏🏻💖✨🌱📚📖🖌️🎨

[@banukaracam9740]

@@kristinaatgreenmeadowswede6714 Don't worry about your age😊Just do it! Life is too short to live in the same place for too long... Good luck!💖

[@earthmother4507]

I'm glad that you made this video. I live in a very rural mountain location in Colorado. Semi off grid. 25 min drive for gas, 45 min drive for groceries. 1 hour from a city, and a hospital. I'm super introverted, so it's been fine for me, but a lot of people have been buying houses here and selling within a year. It's easy to romanticize rural life, but many people don't consider the challenges. Winters are long and harsh. It's isolated. There are wild animals. You can't order pizza, or pop into a store for something. There's not a lot of work. It's definitely a harder life, but it can be so rewarding if it's in line with your values. I just think that a lot of people don't consider the challenges until they're living this life.

[@TheCottageFairy]

Beautifully said ❤️ thank you for sharing, I appreciate getting your perspective. It is beautiful that there are such a variety of people that can enjoy different lifestyles - you are right, over here as well many cannot handle the environment and sell their homes after a short time. But I agree it’s lovely to live in alignment with your values ❤️

[@letinhsong8024]

Lol-a lot of people don’t “consider “ much of anything!! I think thinking and ruminating is becoming a lost art. Maybe it’s tied to farming and agriculture, and “city folk” just aren’t accustomed to it.

[@freeman436]

Yep. I'm in my third year of living full-time in southern Utah. High up in the mountains. 100% off-grid. Remote. Isolated. Miles and miles from anybody and anything up a dirt road. It's a sublime existence. But it's definitely challenging and probably not for everyone.

[@karld1791]

How is driving so much in line with Earth Mother values? I understand people like living in the countryside but paving long roads and driving long distances is not good for the Earth or nature. And the long roads with few people living on them are paid for by the dense city tax payers.

[@letinhsong8024]

@@freeman436 probably not, lol! I wanted to do that for years and years of my life (except not in Utah), but I feel like I’m too old for it now-not enough energy left to deal with everything anymore. And I’m sure I can no longer survive without my phone! It’s my lifeline to my kids, and to the rest of the world as well.

[@bethanya99]

I appreciate you mentioning the local impact of outsiders buying homes in rural areas which is making decent housing unavailable or unaffordable to the local population (like me).

[@joem2130]

It's happening in cities too! I've been priced out of my neighborhood. I think the thing people don't realize is once this happens, you lose the very thing that made you want to move there in the first place (local businesses, restaurants etc)

[@xunheilvsnipezx3324]

Jeez so here in AZ only 30% of the state can be privately owned, and no Arizona isn't a rich state, and 4 acres cost 30k 2 years ago. In walks Cali idiots, who have more money than the avg Arizonian have caused that same 4ac lot to now cost 200k not to mention the double the national inflation on food and water. We are a desert and Cali won't allow AZ to take water from the CO river... We planned ahead with aquifers, but not for 4x the pop

[@mle4054]

It's definitely happening on the island I grew up on. There's no way I could afford to but a house there. Years ago when my grandmother went into senior housing she was the last year round resident on her street or any of the neighboring side roads.

[@chubbybunny6975]

It's happening in my province. We handled the pandemic so well that rich and middle-class people from other parts of the country wanted to move here, and they were paying sometimes double the asking price for houses, which made the market for the locals from here practically impossible. My sister and her fiance got very lucky with the price they paid for their house. Now those people are regretting their move because they've figured out that our wages are horrible with a very high cost of living.

[@NorthernGreenEyes]

@@xunheilvsnipezx3324 yep! It's really sad & I'm afraid it's only going to get worse

[@sliverofamoment]

Being a bookseller sounds so wholesome for the winter. There's nothing better than the refuge of a bookstore when it's freezing outside! I hope it is resourcing to you to be in the hustle and bustle of a holiday shop. I'm glad you plan on continuing to upload.

[@TheCottageFairy]

Thank you! I was feeling restless for several months and realized there was some loneliness settling in after working alone so much - I am excited for a change ❤️ you are right, it feels very cozy for winter ❄️ wishing you well

[@juliejackman2649]

I worked at an independent book store for years. Loved it!❤

[@primtones]

Besides book stores, fabric stores are my favorite. There's a tactile silence there because so much sound is absorbed by the fabric. And it's so cozy. There should be combined book and fabric stores!

[@sliverofamoment]

Oh I love fabric stores 😍

[@lakemichigan6598]

While traveling, my evenings are often spent in bookstores - at least when I can find them. They are becoming awfully scarce. If we want bookstores to survive, we have to spend our money there.

[@terryfeally6633]

By nature humans are social animals. We need the interaction. But there are times when we,individually,need time alone. If only to find our own sense of self. I am not a hermit,I truly enjoy interactions with others,but I tend to get overwhelmed by all the busy noise and get a bit stressed and anxious. These quiet alone time breaks keep me centered and serene. All about finding the balance in between.

[@carolyndymond5521]

I must admit that I am similar.

[@shine-uy5fq]

I feel the same. There's a comfort you can find in being social and being by yourself.

[@nla5307]

I wonder if this true for everyone. As a child I played alone and as an adult I prefer to be alone. If I could go weeks without speaking to a single human soul, I'd be fine. My human interactions come in the form of people at the store or in passing, that is all I need.

[@sheliarossell3162]

Me to a real blance in life.

[@GamingBeLike21]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/gqnai4l3nr-mnZY

[@psychedelic.dreamer]

After living a rural life like this for all my life (22 years spent on a farm, gardening our food, having cattle, etc) I decided to move to a big city and see what it was like. I would love all the opportunities and new things like stores and restaurants it had to offer, I thought. God how I was wrong. I miss the mountains, the animals, the quietness and peacefulness of nature. I miss feeling content and at peace in my home. I've never been so depressed in my life as I am amongst all this concrete and hustle and bustle. I truly miss my mountain home more than anything and am hoping to move to a similar area like home, soon. 🌿☀️💚

[@roseg1333]

You’re probably picking up on all the negative and bad vibes from people. I have lived in a town all my life (but the population has quadrupled in the last few years) and recently when I went on vacation and came back I could physically feel all the negative vibes and my anxiety came back tenfold.

[@outlaw565]

Cities are the worst. A whole society of people totally disconnected from the harmony of the earth. City people are mentally and emotionally sick and don’t realize it.

[@psychedelic.dreamer]

@@outlaw565 I completely agree with your comment and believe it to be true.

[@hannahwinchester777]

We moved to the sticks in west Virginia and life quality increased drastically.

[@taniakol]

Thank you for your encouragement, from someone who's never lived rural. Would love the silence (is it tho), and nature.

[@KHBogWitch]

I think my idea of rural is different from the general feel of this comment section. There are people where I live now (NWFL) who have a 30 min drive to town or to get groceries. I don’t consider that to be rural at all. I’m from the Great Plains; my mom right now lives an hour from her post office box. She picks up her mail once a week when she swings into town for gas. That being said-if you have access to nature, you can live a folksy life without actually being isolated. You can buy a few acres 20 mins from town and get the best of both worlds. I love that I can jar the string beans I grew in my garden and still have reasonable access to a mall ❤️

[@facewrinkles3886]

Good points. I'll argue that you could have even less remoteness and acquire a private feeling. A little bit of land is worlds away from a tiny grass lot. We have less than an acre and multiple gardens: an 113 sqft wild rose garden, a 90 sqft vegetable garden, a 500 sqft wildflower garden, 3 fruit trees, 3 chickens with their own fenced area, a gas easement we aren't allowed to use, front and backyard landscaping, and MORE. All for less than an acre, people! We definitely feel a little rural from tending to the yard so often, but our pop. 5,000 village's center is only a 1 mile walk for us. Even a large yard is so. much. work. --- and you won't feel stranded or helpless or lonely. This size land might just be the chore-life balance that romanticizers intend, but undershoot its potential because it doesn't sound fairy tale enough. Rethink your dreams, some of you... they may be more easily satisfied than you think.

[@NorthernGreenEyes]

@@facewrinkles3886 well said!! I agree so many people romanticize the rural cottage core lifestyle like it's a fad. Once the real work starts they sell for triple & move on to the next place, etc. That's another thing that's driving housing costs up and it makes for buying or even renting a home impossible for the very low income. I'd be so dang happy with a little yard & a garden. Your place sounds lovely 😌🌹 Unfortunately I'm living on assistance due to a disability I didn't see coming. I miss the country life so much! My anxiety is so much worse here it's like being in a box, suffocating slowly. Be well and enjoy your little patch of heaven ☺️🌳🌞

[@ginnyburley9552]

It’s tempting and easy to idealize a life that is unlike our own. It’s always important to explore the complexities of different kinds of life settings as well as our own complex needs as we seek more meaningful lives. In my long life I have evolved through what feels like several different lives. I’ve learned a great deal!

[@TheCottageFairy]

well said ❤️

[@1suitcasesal]

Life is for learning. Hopefully we can take all we have learned in this life to our next in some way.

[@wanderingsoul2931]

Agreed. At 29 I’ve lived in a “normal” town? I guess you can say. I then moved to an isolated farm town in the southern berkshires for 2 years which changed me so much. Then I met my husband and we moved to nyc for a year which changed me again but made me realize who I was and who I was not. Now I live in kind of a city area in Westchester ny. It’s comfortable for now but when we start a family we want to move to a small town again

[@teamhunley]

My mom found out the hard way her cottage in the mountains is romantic-sounding, but after my dad got sick and then passed, it wasn't a great idea to be in the mountains alone especially at her age. Always a loner and introverted herself, she still has issues she can't fix, like failing eyesight. She has a few friends that vacation elsewhere in Winter or holidays, so she's getting an Alexa just to have 'someone' to talk to. As for me, I recently became a widow myself, and with shorter, colder days and loneliness, I don't think rural life would be good for me, and I absolutely love the outdoors...In my opinion, I would base any rural-living decision on one's mental and physical health first.

[@IntrovertedLoLo]

Hey! Why don’t you go live with your mom?

[@__honeyy]

Very insightful! As a young person, this is a perspective I hadn't thought of 💡thank you

[@annreed1382]

Always enjoy your perspectives and how it does take time finding what fits us individually. I like your comment to live in one place for an extended period in all kinds of weather to see if it's for us.That's a good idea. Also on another note I wanted to let you know that I received your beautiful poetry cards and stickers and book marks in the mail yesterday. They are wonderful. I'm so happy I ordered them. Will share with family. ❤❤Hugs

[@Maddiedesu]

One thing I feel a lot of people don't understand about the difference between extroverts and introverts is in how they recharge, not how many people they talk to. When extroverts feel drained, they need to be around people in order to recharge, whereas with introverts, they need time to themselves. But depending on the introvert, too much isolation can actually have negative effects. Like when you leave your phone charging past full, it will actually make your battery drain faster. A good balance of social interaction and alone time makes a healthy introvert.

[@savannahshirley5998]

I feel the same way as an extrovert, even though I recharge by being around people, if I am around people 24/7 with no alone time, I feel very drained, I think a balance for both extroverts and introverts is important:) the ratio of alone time/being around people is just different with the two groups :)

[@MethuselahWinter]

I don’t know what I am then because my “balance” isn’t what everyone else tells me it should be. It’s like 20% social 80% alone Maybe because I’m never given space to truly be a l o n e. I live with my parents and sibs and nibs in a house were everyone can hear everyone else, even if I stay in my room I got people knocking on my door bothering me every other minute. I crave isolation. Like true isolation. Like I want to live in a unit (with all the shit for living) alone, truly alone, just to fucking breath. I want to be able to sit in a room with the AC at 60 F, eat whatever I want, watch whatever I want without people policing how I chew, breath, sit or speak. I don’t need people breathing down my neck every five seconds or asking me “are you okay” every ten minutes because my body conditions are acting up and I’m working through it and having to constantly remind them (ie: my coughing, clearing my throat, making weird noised are just a part of my condition I gotta deal with an asking questions that require a verbal response when I clearly can’t communicate verbal during a flare up is exhausting) People are just so goddamn exhausting, just dealing with the little nuances and quirks of existing around others is exhausting. And then nobody getting this when I explain it to them makes me think I’m just wasting what little breath and energy I got. Then you got people who for whatever fucking reason must fill the silence by asking questions. Just silence, darkness, peace and quiet. I desperately crave that. I have a boyfriend and family who I love and I am glad they care for me but there is a point that it’s just fucking smothering. Can’t they just care about me from like five feet to the left.

[@swiftyasaninja]

People aren't batteries.

[@lumiella]

yes! i'm an introvert and every once in a while i get an urge to go out and expend all my built up energy. after that i'm socially out of commission for another month lol. but my friends tend to be more introverted than me, and take more off time. everyone needs their own personalized balance

[@legalfictionnaturalfact3969]

extroverts suck energy and introverts give it.

[@williambent9636]

I opened a bookstore when I was 28. One book I read while I was learning how to run a bookstore over the course of three years (I worked my way up to co-manager at a great little bookstore in Colorado Springs) was by a man who was a serial bookstore "developer." He would pick a place he had wanted to live and for 3-4 years, start a cool little bookstore, and then sell it at a profit. Then he would move to the next place he'd always wanted to live. I basically did this, having my own little book and music store in a rural town (I also did all the school book fairs in a three-county area!). After four years, I finally took one of the many offers I'd had and went back to graduate school. Another time I spent two years after my first baby was born helping someone set up a used book store, which was fun. However if you think all you do in a bookstore is set around and read, you need to go to work for one for the Christmas season, when it's easy to get hired. Also be prepared to work a part-time job for the first year, as well as at your store, to be able to build up your business without taking much money out. It is easy to forget while admiring our Cottage Fairy's caramel apples, that it's her entrepreneurial spirit that allows her to live close to nature, on her own terms, while providing for herself. If you are willing to work really hard, and think outside the box, you could do it, too.

[@catherineshaw1122]

Do you recall the name of the book about the bookstore developer you mentioned?

[@williambent9636]

It is called Complete Guide to Starting a Used Bookstore: Old Books into Gold by Dale L. Gilbert. Old book but full of good ideas for DIY. Good luck!

[@kristyndonnelly8317]

Hey! I'm from the Springs!! I miss the bookstores there

[@HellsingxSoprano]

The bowl with the pink stripe... my mom had that same bowl and I loved it so, so much. It broke, sadly, after a long life of servicing at least two generations. Seeing the bowl again, whole, and used for baking like we so often used it just warms my heart.

[@ThePaperbackFairy]

I want to live rurally, but I know I wouldn’t feel safe or be happy in a completely off grid location, especially one far away from a town or from other people. It would be far too isolating for me, even as an introvert, and I’d start to feel trapped. Thank you for sharing Paola and I hope you enjoy your bookstore job, it sounds fantastic!

[@TheCottageFairy]

Thank you! Yes, I admire that it works for many amazing people, but for me I realized I needed a bit of both worlds to feel happy - both the community feel and the nature ❤️ wishing you a lovely day

[@sparklebox11]

@@cUCH1337NPC This is true and in my experience this ideal location is generally the most expensive providing the best of both worlds. Its something I strive towards achieving one day 💝

[@h2a333]

i would go for a 2 months holiday see what it feels like pretend like your living there and then see if its right or just go holiday every year you dont have to live there

[@niranjaninisal6596]

I have the same wish❤️ But soon our dreams will be fulfilled 😊❤️

[@luluparl1245]

@Nicolas B. Henry the problem is that the cities are threaten of loose electricity and shortage of suplies.. the big cities has became a trap for humans. That do not know how to survive if the grid goes of etc

[@cranberry420]

I personally love being "alone" with only the nature and my pets with me. I would need to socialize every now and then, due to me being a human, but I do well without meeting anyone face-to-face for weeks. Thank you for sharing!

[@TheCottageFairy]

Thank you! Yes, I enjoy my alone time too, I have some lovely friends who feel similarly as you, I see them perhaps once a month! It is beautiful the variety of personalities ❤️

[@KarijnsWatercolors]

I can definitely empathise with the need of staying within a humane distance from help; my father often said that he would have loved a small home in the middle of the mountains when he was younger but getting older and having to do some medical procedures, he's now happy to be living fairly close (10 minutes drive) to a hospital. I have the same urge, to be in the middle of nowhere with no one in sight, but I do realize that would make living very hard (just to simply buy groceries would be a hassle). I think that if I got the chance to rent a small cabin somewhere, even for just a week or two, it would give me the peace I need without necessarily be a long commitment and it would be a better solution than to invest in something I might regret later in life.

[@c_mendes]

That would be awesome :) I’ve thought the same thing before. Or even owning a small holiday house in the mountains if I could afford it one day

[@toddbaker64]

This is better than any Amazon mini-series! What is going to happen next on The Cottage Fairy?!! Always leave us wanting more. I love your channel and how you keep your viewers engaged. Awesome content!!

[@TheCottageFairy]

Ah! Thank you Todd! I appreciate it!

[@Hollyhock7]

Oh Todd!!! I definitely agree!

[@SisterSherryDoingStuff]

I look through your lens, and romanticize your living situation. But to be honest, I suffer from depression. Depression and more isolation wouldn't be healthy for me. Right now I'll just continue to work on myself...and maybe some day I'll actually live a rural life style. First things first.♥

[@TheCottageFairy]

My heart goes out to you, I wish you the very best on your journey - while I take joy showing the more artistic side of life through my camera lens, I always like to speak about how nowhere is perfect, and no lifestyle is free from challenges. Isolation is not good for me either 🤍 I hope you have a lovely day

[@Ana-jf1ch]

Agree, this looks good on videos but I changed to a isolated place and it was a nightmare to my mental health. I need bookstores,cinemas and pretty cafés to take a tea and cake. Peace of mind is a state not a place,best wishes 😉

[@TheCottageFairy]

@@lamar9331 I do spend much time alone and enjoy it, it inspires my videos - I am an introvert, but I have not said I am isolated from others. I usually reiterate regularly that I have a family and fiancé and used to work as a teacher. This is the first time in my life I have not had a job outside my home, and it just wasn’t working for me. Maybe that clarifies things, wishing you well. 🙏

[@texasstardust6010]

@@TheCottageFairy ..... perfectly stated . I need a " balance " , of alone time, and the opportunity to have a cafe' to go to, a bookstore, and other such things that are as Nourishment, to the Mind, Soul and Spirit. May all that you need, desire, require - and more - fill your Life in the coming year, ..... Blessings and Abundance to you ~ S.

[@SisterSherryDoingStuff]

♥@Little fairy Annika

[@simpleextrovert]

It’s quite possible to be in a crowd but still be lonely. Embrace each season of your life and always be grateful. ❤️

[@lindagithaiga1974]

Very true and also one can feel unsafe and afraid in a crowd.

[@NorthernGreenEyes]

@@lindagithaiga1974 literally me 😞 I've mild agoraphobia, general and social anxiety plus panic disorder. I leave my home once a month and I have to seriously prepare like it's a huge huge event. I only go on my back porch a few times a day if it's evening or night time and nobody's outdoors. Ever since I moved away from rural living because the cost of living was too high I find myself retreating more & more everyday. This concrete jungle will be the death of me..

[@Cheesus4jesus]

Such good advice. I've lived a similar life in a semi rural environment about 15 minutes to town. I had thought that I could live a more isolated existence and had the opportunity to farm sit in the mountains about a decade ago. I discovered claustrophobia. Not knowing anyone in the area other than the farm owners. Farm chores in Autumn were difficult, in Winter they'd be unbearable, especially on a mountainside. People I know who successfully live off grid are still part of a community. That can be difficult if you're completely new to an area. The other aspect of rural life is that rentals are difficult to find if you don't know anyone, it's all word of mouth. If you're well off financially and depending on the area, you have more options. If money is tight, consider that many affordable rentals are old houses, poorly insulated and often have no AC or efficient ways of heating which can mean expensive utility bills. It's not uncommon to have Winter heating bills that are equal to the amount of rent in many places . Going back to people who successfully live this lifestyle, they have lots of practical skills. Rarely are there lone wolves. It's either a couple or some kind of group. This is especially true for homesteaders. There's simply too much work to do for a single person. Also consider that even among homesteaders, it's necessary to have some sort of off farm income. The romance quickly wears off when reality sets in. Then if you live in an area prone to wildfires, floods, heavy snow etc, these are very real challenges. Hopefully this information will be helpful to anyone thinking about jumping into this lifestyle.

[@llamasugar5478]

We have a sort-of joke that behind every successful homesteader is a spouse with a job in town.

[@conniediaz6456]

@@llamasugar5478 This seems to be true. There is a YT channel that I follow, where the wife stays home on the homestead, while the husband has a job at the local university.

[@francineh.7825]

I live in a rural area in cottage country near a lake. I have neighbours who are close but even so there are so many different types of wildlife here - deer, coyotes, I even had a bear and a raccoon family on my deck. I love it but it was an adjustment. I live alone and it took me awhile before I wasn't freaked out anymore with how dark it is at night with no lights anywhere...made me realize how little of a speck I am in the big universe lol. Your new job sounds so awesome!!

[@lorenenoe4472]

Having a holiday job in a bookstore sounds like utopia to me, someone who loves reading. You’ve made the best decisions for yourself over and over, proving flexibility and being true to oneself is a path to success and truly knowing your truths. I cannot wait to see what the next six months brings your way. All my best from south FL. 🐊

[@stephanieritz9165]

She really has made the best decisions. I wish I had her wisdom of knowing when to pull back or when it's time to initiate a change because things aren't working. I'm 36, and I'm still working on this.

[@clairebearie87]

Me too babe. I am 34 and it's ok to not have it all worked out. I thought I was on a different path than where life leaded me today

[@GamingBeLike21]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/gqnai4l3nr-mnZY

[@luluparl1245]

@@stephanieritz9165 me too and Im older than you

[@LisaZoe86]

Okay, but it's not like your job will be reading in a bookstore, its selling books during a very busy time. I think it will be rather stressful. At least my jobs in any kind of store have been busy and stressful. But alright at least in a bookstore you've got a nice surrounding :-)

[@krislebert1926]

I am in my 20's too trying to figure out the best way I want to live. I am at a time in my life where I am self-developing a lot and your videos have helped me move forward in myself so much. Just the fact that you've never given up the magic inside of you for reality like I see so many people our age do has inspired me. I wanted to believe in it but I didn't have a single role model to help me do that until I watched your videos. I realized recently that the most important thing in life is your journey and to follow your heart and find who you truly are on it. Your journey is so beautiful and incredible that it inspires me even in this monotonous reality. Thank you so much for being you. You are so brave and full of magic.

[@sweettea018]

What you mentioned about being able to get help is what makes me fearful of traveling alone, more than the obvious being a woman (in a somewhat dangerous country, I live in Brazil). What goes through my head is: what if I'm hiking and sprain my ankle alone in the middle of nowhere? What if something happens and I need someone to take me to the hospital? What if I get really sick and there's no one to help me take care of myself? (I caught stomach bugs many times while traveling and it I get really really weak and fainty). I really wanted to travel to the countryside or to the beach by myself but thinking about this scares me.

[@primtones]

As an introvert I like having people around me more than I like direct connection. So I don't think rural living and close connections is for me, even though I dream about the peace and aesthetic of it. I live in a tiny apartment now and don't know or have any social obligations to my neighbours, and I like it! We're still there for each other in emergencies.

[@user-ks1yn7tq3d]

Having grown up in a decent sized house in a small country town I never thought I would like apartment living, but have now been in a small-ish apartment complex for a decade with my young family and have grown to love it! I agree that there is something very comforting about being surrounded by people but without living in each other’s pockets (our neighbours are all beautiful and friendly but we all have our own lives too) x

[@AnonYmous-en7op]

Same here. Also a lot of cultural aspects would be missed by me. I am Chinese Australian so the diversity and accessibility of the city / suburbs will always draw me in more than a less diverse but peaceful rural life.

[@etherealbooks]

Your style reminds me so much of Beatrix Potter and my childhood in a 200 year old cottage in Sweden. Watching your videos feels like coming home. Thank you so much for sharing your beautiful perceptions and creativity! 🌞🌬🖌🌱

[@aurora6920]

I have always thought this too, I feel like I am watching an American Beatrix Potter :)

[@luluparl1245]

Where in Sweden?

[@tbex613]

I grew up in an extremely rural area in the woods (30 minutes to a grocery store)- my parents were from cities in other states and knew very little about rural living; however, they made it work for the most part, and there were times that were magical! With that said, it is a VERY challenging life, and I found that I could not relate to many people whose families had always lived in the area for generations. I ended up moving away, but I will cherish my memories of my rural childhood :) I love your channel and especially love your energy- it's so calming. Thank you for sharing.

[@lakemichigan6598]

When working retail in a small town, you get to know just about everyone there. This was my experience while living in a village of about 400, working in the local garden center. I never had more fun - and I think you will too. The only social downside I saw was your privacy is harder to protect - but the corresponding upside will be tremendous: The community will undoubtedly take you to heart.

[@lauramonahan9343]

Appreciate your honesty, Paola. Grew up a military brat on a tropical island (Indian Ocean, not Caribbean), then very rural Midwest, now Seattle. Can't wait to get back to rural! Bright lights big city is not for me, but having one nearby for cultural events and diversity feels important. Visiting your town at Thanksgiving, I'll just nod but not disturb you if our paths cross. Ah, the lovely smell of a bookstore. As always, a fan. Thank you.

[@ravent3016]

When I left Seattle, I rented for 6 months in my current location in the Olympia area, just to make sure I liked it here. She gave good advice about being sure before buying.

[@jessicacanfield5408]

My husband and I and my 5 year old son used to live in Southern California. We moved to Virginia 27 years ago and we wanted to live without anyone around and 30 minutes from anywhere. We are 30.minutes to towns on either side of is but we have neighbors with big lawns between us. When we moved here we found 4 neighbors that became friends some of them really good friends. I am so glad we didn't isolate ourselves because we have wonderful memories of good times. I am so glad we were not isolated.

[@stardustgirl2904]

I wish we could move from southern California, but we don't have the funds to move ,so we have to wait, until we do! And that might be another ten years or longer! And I wouldn't know where to move to either, Idaho or Utah maybe.

[@carmenn5609]

It's nice of you Paola to be so transparent with us strangers, well not really strangers because you have friends here you can chat with and not feel isolated😊.

[@Angela-xo5kh]

Your watercolor skill is most impressive. You keep amazing me with your many talents in each and every video. It seems like you have a strong desire to communicate and connect with your inner self and others far beyond your purview and do so through art, baking, animals, and presenting picturesque and idyllic settings. It's all so beautiful. Thank you for allowing me to see through your lens and nourishing all of us here. I for one feel full of love for the world watching these precious portraits of your life. Wishing you and yours wondrous love.

[@leslieweber5177]

First, I am happy to hear that there is a bookstore in your community. It saddens me to see wonderful things like bookstores going away in our electronic world. Also, who wouldn’t love to work at “the shop around the corner” (you’ve got mail). Enjoy your new job! Blessings to you 💕🙏🍂🧡🍁🤎

[@tommy..980]

Evening Paola, I was ready for a relaxing video.. I can sit and watch you paint for hours, it’s super relaxing to me. And you look so happy and beautiful.. Hope things are going well with you and you’re family…

[@TheCottageFairy]

Thank you! We are doing very well, hope things are good with you too 🤍 regards

[@TJ-kz1ul]

I have lived in the same very remote small town my whole life, and I know exactly what you mean. I pretty much have no friends here. Despite my town being small, it is very, very cliquey and I've always found it hard to fit in because I am not a "keeping up with the Jones' type" nor am I a kind of popular, look at how hot I am type of person. This is very much predominant in the culture here. I love my home and my garden. I live quietly with my husband and kids, and I have a good (very) part-time job here and a good life, but this is a real challenge for me too, despite being very introverted as well. I do spend most of my time at home alone, which is a blessing to me, but sometimes I get lonely. I am so thankful you will keep posting videos and also that I purchased two of your Etsy cards whilst it was open. =) I wish you all the best working at the bookstore, it sounds lovely!!

[@sestren2503]

I've thought for the longest time that being introverted was just how I am. I'm in retail sales and every day is a challenge for me. Stumbling on this video makes me realize that there are many things missing in my life. While I am an introvert and need my personal time, I truly hope to someday find a special someone that shares what I'm going thru. I truly love social interaction, but it's gotta be someone special. It may never happen, but I stay hopeful.

[@deborahreid4114]

The Best Peace is Country Rural areas!! I live 20 miles from nearest town. Country is quiet!! Brains can think more clearly without traffic & loud sounds. Loved how you made the Carmel apples!!!🥰

[@TheCottageFairy]

Thank you! I had to give away the apples as I was eating them up all by myself haha! Wishing you and your lovely family well ❤️

[@alysiawilkins4009]

I worked part time at a book store some years ago when I was younger and more able bodied. It was the job I have loved the most. I hope you find the same joy. I so enjoy your videos. They are peaceful and relaxing for me. Thank you for sharing your life.

[@GamingBeLike21]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/gqnai4l3nr-mnZY

[@jameshammond2738]

It is so comforting to hear a female voice that is kind and sweet. I miss that! This video brought serenity back into my life for moment. Thank you sharing with us. Sharing with me.

[@juditharsenault2131]

I live alone in a rural area on a dead end dirt road. I'm retired and healthy and enjoy outdoor work. I'm happy and content. I go to a city to do landscaping for my sister whose yard has gotten overgrown. Her neighbors are about 10 yards away on both sides. I always feel grateful to come home to quiet and peace. It's my choice and I'm grateful I'm able to choose. I really like watching you bake, cook and decorate and other things. It relaxes me and inspires me to.

[@tairad687]

20 seconds in and I'm in love with the trees. I want to paint every leaf. 🥰

[@orchid3457]

Though you didn't know, I bet you, you 've always been in love with trees. You are a nature lover!

[@tairad687]

@@orchid3457 absolutely! When I was a kid, spring was my favorite time. Especially the scent of mimosa tassels. In the fall, the color changes are just soothing to the soul. I love being outside in the country. It's much more kind than big city traffic. Haha.

[@Badfourgood]

listening to your voice just totally relaxes me no matter how frustrating the day has been...thank you

[@nononattono]

I grew up in a rural area, about 20 minutes from the nearest town with a grocery store. I currently live in a major city for graduate school and am having a kind of experience opposite of what city folk have. I’m finding myself completely overwhelmed by the business, the amount of people, the cement everywhere, and a lot of other things. I actually find it harder for me to make friends here than it was for me in rural area because I know how to find friends in the countryside since I grew up there but feel properly overwhelmed in the city. I love living in the countryside and miss it very much

[@rockroll1639]

I grew up in the city, but I always enjoyed going out the lakes and mountains. When the opportunity finally presented itself I moved about 90 miles North of the Metro Area. There are still thousands of people living here in small town America. Since 2020 more and more are moving here. My how people’s perceptions have changed. Many can only dream of the life here, but I’m living their dream. So grateful. The proof is in the success of channels like yours. Prior to the pandemic, my Dad and Sister use to say “what are you gonna do up there?” I said “ The same thing you do. Except in a beautiful and clean environment with friendly down to earth people.” Go out and be part of the community. It’s so wonderful being part of small town America where you can have traditional real relationships with members of the local community and easily retreat into a beautiful natural place to explore and express all those things of creation.

[@lauriedanforth435]

Oh Paola , My sweet Cottage Fairy~ You will never know how much you & your Kind Hearted~ Free Spirited ~ Gentle Soul has helped me threw some very hard & difficult times in my Life over the past year~ I stumbled onto your videos by mistake and have been looking forward to the middle of the week when i can climb into my comfy bed with a hot cup of tea and learn something new from you & your failytail life style! Your soft spoken voice & calming effect you have on me has been quite pleasurable. I am so grateful that you have found your person in Luke and soon youll be wed~ You both compliment each others ways~ I hope we get to see the wedding dress~ know it will be whimsical if nothing else to say the least. I will be looking forward to seeing how the next chapter of you life transforms~ I will miss the cottage, and all the special details that you put into it, claiming it for your own~ Its been a pleasure to have met you threw your videos and I so appreciate the privacy you bestow on others in your life. It has kept the mysterious part of you a Magical thing! I have several creations of yours that i have choosen on Etsy in my cart and they ask for a Etsy coupon code? Do you know what it is? Many thanks for all you do and all that you are~ God Bless you & your Luke

[@christyvivatson146]

I was just at that bookstore Saturday ~~~~ my favorite bookstore ever! Your neck of the woods is beautiful in the fall~~~we had a lovely 32nd wedding anniversary up there….Maybe our paths will cross one day at the bookstore~~~much love from Chelan ~~~and congratulations on your new job!!

[@janalavtizar4426]

"Which I can do" was the loveliest gesture :)

[@nstrainmaster2]

Living life, is like eating food. Some people are content with the same thing, over and over. Others thrive on change, despite them having a few meals they constantly go back to. As I live, I find that it's better to live without less and less self imposed boundaries and more on what one thrives on in the present. I've had to learn that it's OK to strain and completely detach ones self from what others expect of them. The mind is like a garden, and if it is important to prune and water plants, how much so the garden in our heads! I've kinda been viewing my life in the same way as of late, and although I am growing rather slow, I am getting somewhere. Much luck and love to you on your future endeavors! :)

[@bananachicken2940]

I hope one day, even for once I'll be able tp experience nature, the way you do💚🥰 sending hugs Paola🤗

[@lamar9331]

Use the nature around you while you hope for more. I am in the city. I hate it. The noise, congestion, and pollution never quit. I make myself find nature times because I thrive on it. I have potted tomatoes and spinach in summer. I paint serene landscape pictures. I love to bake. I take walks and see the changes in nature with the seasons.

[@fz1792]

When you mentioned medical scares , my father also had a heart attack an year ago, thankfully he survived .I feel so grateful that I live really close to a major hospital and we were able to take him to hospital on time cuz if we had been a little late it would have been too late

[@anjihc8797]

I deeply appreciate your honesty. It is so important to find a balance and take breaks even from good things like your esty shop. Working from home has been so idealized in media but it's not the perfect fit for everyone. I hope there is a resurgence of visiting local shops in our own communities when this pandemic becomes less dominant in our lives. There's something so satisfying in wandering through a shop and making a selection. All the best on your new season of life!

[@myragroenewegen5426]

You speak so gently and with such authenticity and give advise which SO many people will very much benefit from hearing. Your filming is pure art and it's rare to be able to seem so natural in front of a camera. You seem to be living this very cottagey life, while, at the same time, to share it this way on KZbin, I'm sure you must have quite the modern tech and presentation skills, that could translate into lucrative conventional city work, if ever you wanted that change for a while. People have needs and tallent bigger than living one lifestyle in one place, so it's always fun to watch people change, explore and shift throughout their lives.

[@aesthetxcjin4884]

i love how creative she is through out the whole video her voice is so claming and the way she speaks is just makes me so happy😍💖💟

[@nennepanrikefairytaleart4773]

Thank you for the honesty, Paola. It is always refreshing when someone tells it as it is. You create valuable beauty. Take care!! Love from Nenne, by the sea in Sweden

[@chickenortheeggphotography]

I think there's an overdone fantasy about living in the rural, "uncharted", and "off-grid". You have some excellent points, there is safety in security of living near medical, food, etc. Just as there is an overdone fantasy about "Camper life". That stuff is stressful at times. It's not for everyone, and nearly everyone I know who has done it reached their limit. Glad they did it, but didn't want to keep doing it. Thankfully I live in a city where I am 15-20 minutes from any sort of real nature where you can walk through, get somewhat lost and still get home at a reasonable times and god forbid you get injured, you still have access to any major medical within 30 minutes or less. An hour/hour-half from nature you can get totally lost in and 2 hours from places where if you slid off the side of the road in summer or winter and no one knew where you were for the day, you'd be hard pressed to find anyone go down the road, and the cell service is non-existent. Not sure I'd want to live in a place like the latter. Maybe the middle, but I am happy where I am now. Home is where you're happy after all. My friend lives "off-grid" and loves it, he moved up there with his family, but his spirit and hearty ability to sustain in somewhere like that amazes me. I wish I had that wherewithal sometimes.

[@NoOctopuss]

Being close to town but close to those gorgeous mountains sounds like a wonderful combination.

[@shaynajanelle]

When I first started watching your channel I got the impression that you loved being alone all the time. I’m glad to find that I am wrong because I can definitely relate to needing more community. I am so happy that you will be working at a bookstore and enjoying your time when you are at home. ❤️

[@TheCottageFairy]

Thank you! Yes, I consider myself quite introverted and need alone time - however, I definitely need my social time as well ❤️ both work in harmony for me - wishing you well

[@mycrazylifekristintaylor6146]

I always look so forward to your next piece if "He'art".... You have blessed me so much, and as a result have blessed my grandsons. I mske a point now...to tske them on daily outdoor adventures, we create things..rather than buy new. It's brought do many smiles to their faces and i know they will never forget these days. Thank u angel for being you! Im happy you're delving back into books because i love when you share your favorites..... God bless you ♡ kristin

[@averageadventurers7451]

Wow, so weird. This is kinda echoing exactly what I was discussing yesterday with my counsellor. I feel like all the "freedom" of working from home and dictating my schedule is actually almost burdensome and doesn't actually feel all that freeing. I miss the purpose, the friendships, and the change of enviroment that come with being out of the house. Hoping a suitable part time job comes my way as I also do not want to give up being home completely.

[@connie6545]

I love your story. The beautiful scenery in your videos and the peace that your valley brings to you feels all encompassing. I am a nature photographer on the other side of the Cascades. Unfortunately, some people "assume" that I must live in a cave, and I had better get myself to a big city! NOT even close. I just feel nature is all around us, and I like to surround myself with it whenever I can!

[@conniediaz6456]

Do you have a website or social media account?

[@suzanneparvey4346]

Good evening Paola. This was a wonderful video. Its good you explained you are not off the grid and live 15 minutes from town. I agree that it is important and reassuring to not live too far from a hospital in case of medical emergencies. I am happy for you getting seasonal work in the local bookshop. Your knowledge and appreciation of books will be helpful to all customers and give you a chance to socialize. Your zucchini bread and caramel apples looked delicious by the way. The watercolor you did of your valley was gorgeous. Your so talented. I certainly understand why you need to put your Etsy business on pause while you work at the bookshop. Til next week take good care. Hugs.

[@sheamaloney5527]

I have been enjoying your videos for some time now and recently you have been a huge help to me. Through your sharing not only the beautiful images and your comforting creativity but most certainly the words you share. You have been helping me find my way through a very challenging passage in my life. Thank you!!!! I keep you in my prayers.

[@guitarsinginglessons]

I also want to let you know that I came to your channel by absolute conscious will. In a completely deliberate way I opened youtube and typed "fairy living in the forest" and from many videos listed I clicked only on one that was about your bio and your channel and then I searched for your channel. I love that it's not just fairyland like but also realistic and how you show that it's not random that you lead the life you lead and not even that you felt it but actually you talk about thoughtful decision making processes you've gone through as I understand. Keep it up! Congrats!

[@1313hao]

Let's just say that you making candied apples is just giving off some witchy vides and I'm living for it!!!

[@wonderouswhimsicalworld]

Your painting is so peaceful and magical! You were actually the one to inspire me to learn how to draw florals. I've always told people "I can't draw" or "I can't paint". It was not until recently that I challenged myself to really try to learn these skills. So thank you for your inspiring pieces of art. And although I am sad that you are closing your Etsy shop soon, I definitely understand that it will allow so much more time to work at a part time job and balance your life. It is wonderful when we each come to a place where we are able to recognize when we are getting too overwhelmed with something and have the peace to take a step back. ❤

[@GamingBeLike21]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/gqnai4l3nr-mnZY

[@lindaclark9925]

I closed my Etsy and don't post my art on line, only in local stores can you buy it. It's much better.

[@sonarharin3906]

combining your love of books and literature with fulfiling a need to be around people is great! good for you! your videos are always beautiful, positive inspiring and … friendly!! love from the UK

That painting is just gorgeous 💕 on an other note , I lived in an offgrid house in the mountains with hubby, but enjoyed that the city was just a few minutes drive ,if I needed anything. Its good to have both sides available:)

[@unclevernz]

Please keep posting your videos. They help me realize its ok to be content and happy where I am. I can proceed at my own pace. Wishing you blessings in your new direction.

[@ivychicken]

Oh Paola, I really loved watching you make those toffee apples and baking. I think you going through the downsides to living in a small town will help a lot of people in making their own decisions. It makes so much sense why you are looking forward to a change! :) I also love reading through your video comments - how wholesome they are! It really goes to show how much you are loved, and it's a direct reflection of the beautiful person that you are inside and out! 💗💞

[@shellyneedham3947]

Your videos always bring me such peace

[@breatherepeat]

I appreciate how you mentioned your beloved folk tales book and the tree man who could sniff the air and predict the weather. For the past 7 years, I've lived in a small farming village in northern Italy where I can definitely smell the change in the air when rain is preparing its arrival. I also feel the winds approach in the whispering of the trees - our village is low structures and far removed from city, thus when the wind drives though our fields, it hits us rather hard (we've found laundry and other assorted items in our yard from neighbors on the other side of the village!) : )

[@rowan7658]

Wise words. You can never run away from yourself...where ever you go ...... YOU go.... so you had better be happy with yourself.

[@Carmen-xj7nn]

Lovely video !! It always amazes me how quickly you come up with painting ideas and how very beautifully they turn out. Every time you show me your work I am fill with admiration of your talent. I know you always think I say so because I am your mom but I honestly can tell you how much I appreciate the beauty of your painting world ❤🦄🧚🏼‍♀️

[@justme-uw6bz]

Thats so funny, me too, I can always smell rain in the air. People used to say to me that I was strange.

[@sionnach541]

Peace of mind in a place that you love, and a sweet tooth what more could you ask for in life 🥰

[@sallystanbury2025]

Your book store job sounds like a good plan, I completely relate to feeling loneliness at times and it’s good to mix socially, as it keeps your spirits lifted. Sending best wishes for a fun time! 📚

[@samarneson9475]

excited to hear your tales of being a holiday bookseller in the next few months! as always...these videos are such a refuge from my crazy days in the city. thank you so much paola

[@MarkDemarest]

I'm enjoying a steady, foggy rain in Vancouver, Washington right now, listening to this video. It smells like autumn and feels like I'm on the right path, now that I've been rejuvenated by you. And now a 747 flies in for a landing directly overhead. I was just thinking, and I thought an ecomuseum would be a perfect venture for you to introduce to each town you visit or stay in for a while (and leave behind when you go - like a gypsy fairy of pure light). It's a communal effort of citizens highlighting and educating locals about their surroundings and how to collectively care for their commons. It's also a natural tie-in to profiling local small businesse$ and their proprietors. I had a (print...I know) magazine a decade ago called 'Bed & Breakfast America,' and we did something reminiscent. Nice feel, well meaning inent. A lot of latitude and room to evolve - but all about community and collective wellness. Plenty of reading on the topic available online. I leave it for each to explore, as I do the same. Maybe we could start a dialogue in a Discord channel or something. Thank you for being you. EDIT: ...and now I hear the freight train in the background. #perfectending

[@famulan3479]

A wise young lady, thank you for sharing your depth, courage, wisdom, and love for life.

[@allrightallrightallright1919]

When I was your age I worked in a bookstore for a couple of years and I met many wonderful people. It’s a great memory, you’ll love it! 🤗💕

[@susanreynard1871]

Wishing you everything of the best for the new chapter in your life! The wisest words in this situation for me, in that timeless movie "You've Got Mail", is Birdie saying to Kathleen when the book shop needs to close: "You are daring to imagine that you could have a different life." Love that, and love your thoughtful, mindful, soothing and uplifting content. Wish you would write a book, something beautiful for us to have handy and reach for when we need an injection of calm and creativity, coupled with your gentle Cottage Fairy wisdom. xxx

[@tammyroyal7547]

I love books!! The art on the book, the smell of the pages, & of course the journey as you read the story!! Good luck on whatever you do!! 😊

[@rrhines3151]

As I watched you paint 🎨 I felt in awe of your talents. Your weekly videos are a refuge from our changed world and I am so grateful for the way you share with us. So thrilled to hear you’ll be in the bookstore helping! 📚💕🙏🏻

[@marthareis5873]

I happened across this and really appreciate your calm truthfulness. I really resonate with needing to balance time to be alone but not being enveloped in so much solitude that perspective is lost. This has manifested for me over the years in feeling stuck between conflicting desires to be in rural and urban places -- which I hope to resolve by combining seasons "in town" with winters in the backcountry (I love the still beauty of the northern boreal forests in winter). I very much look forward to catching up with your other videos, thanks for sharing this.

[@wendy-moore]

I'm loving hearing about all of your changes. Good luck with everything. ... nice job on the caramel.

[@danishmusings]

Always so wholesome and peaceful to start my day here in Denmark with a video from you, Paola. Your calming vibe is a blessing, thank you! 🍂🧡

[@debweissler7808]

Your honesty is refreshing. As a former Army brat, I’ve lived in cities big & small, small towns & the quintessential burbs. Now I am finally living my dream in the country, but like you am just a few short miles from a village with enough amenities to keep me happy. There is a huge difference between being alone and being lonely. I hope you find the perfect balance wherever you go.

[@circlinq]

The best tip for everyone who wants to move out of a city but no completely off grid, are small towns. My town (without the close neighboring towns) has 1.619 people living in it. On one hand you have enough people around you to not feel isolated, and on the other hand you have so much forest /nature/fields around you for it to feel rural. There are a lot of forest animals that you meet quite often (I'm particular fond of one of the foxes) but the next supermarket is 5 minutes away by car and the next bigger city is about 20 minutes away by car. Small towns differ so much, it's worth to check how close they are to others and how much infrastructure they have etc

[@parkercroft6183]

Wonderful layering of a sound and helpful message, a well-edited visual and supportive music. Your work continues to improve by leaps and bounds. Congratulations.

[@katherandefy]

That”s just marvelous. Books are great friends.

[@valsummerfield3069]

I just love love your videos. They are nicely shot, nicely narrated and I like a lot of the things you like. ❤️

[@rozenart5768]

People sometimes misunderstand introverts, they think we dislike being around other people. When the truth is all we want is a choice. I love your videos they feel otherworldly and are so ethereal. For me it's a life dreamed of but not having attained. I was an only child of Cuban parents, I'm also an artist and have been occasionally binging on all things Cottage Fairy as a treat to a busy life. Blessings to you as you endeavor to grow in this a constantly changing world... . Ps. We have the same dry measuring cups.

[@absolutelyjeda3867]

🌈💫 Congrats on the new work! I’ve lived in Washington 30 years, and I can attest to the need for more community and a call to work alongside others when the colder weather is here. I always feel it is hard to find color, movement, sunshine, and friendliness in the isolating rain - but having a destination and friends in a positive work environment used to give me loads of energy!

[@lindagilmore2378]

Best of luck in your new part time job. I’m so glad I just placed an order from your shop recently!

[@thejoyofdirt1610]

Thank you so very, very much for this chat! It came at a time that I really needed it, as my family & I just moved to a very rural area...and even though we love the area, the adjustment is an emotional roller-coaster. It's only been 3 months, so I must give this time. I just wanted to say that your chat today really has encouraged me & made my day happier, so thank you so very, very much! Sending ❤ & hugs...

[@pameehanson3866]

Autumn is my favorite season and it never disappoints me! Thanks for sharing your life and journey with us.

[@theuniquebean]

This is so well timed. I’m moving to a rural area with my kids and mother. Total 180 from my city life. Honestly can’t wait for the change and am excited for the adventure. Don’t even know where we will end up and I appreciate your perspective! Hugs to you and everyone here💕✨

[@orchid3457]

Your life is going to be wonderful! I wish all your dreams to be true! God Bless You, your kids and mother!

[@theuniquebean]

These comments truly moved me to tears. Thank you kind people. Sending all of that love right back to you.💕✨

[@TheCottageFairy]

That sounds so exciting! Wishing you well on your journey ❤️

[@theuniquebean]

@@TheCottageFairy thank you so very much! Hugs 💕

[@maydequito9315]

I SUPER LOVE YOUR VOICE. IT'S SO CALMING AND SOOTHING 🤧💗💗

[@patriciacinea3097]

You embrace change with grace and humility. You love books. The bookstore will love you! Best of success.

[@juliejones9101]

Wishing you the very best where ever your journey takes you!! ❤️