The Heart-to-Heart I need you to hear (Happy Birthday to me) | VLOG

Read More Lovely Words and Encouragement on the blog: rootsandrefuge.com/?s=lovely+...
Hey ya'll, I'm Jess from Roots & Refuge Farm
Welcome to a place that feels like home. A small farm with a big family. We hope you'll pull up a chair, grab some coffee and visit awhile.
There was a time that all I wanted in the world was a little farm where I could raise my family and grow our food. Now, that is exactly what exists outside my door. In watching it unfold, a new dream was formed in my heart - to share this beautiful life with others and teach them the lessons we've learned along the way. Welcome to our journey, friend. I am so glad you're here.
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- Our Website: rootsandrefuge.com
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PO Box 4239
Leesville SC 29070
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PRODUCTS WE LOVE - You've probably heard me talk about these things a million times, so here's where you can order them (and get a discount with my code!):
- Greenstalk Vertical Gardens (Use code "ROOTS10" for $10 off your order): rootsandrefuge.com/yt-greenstalk
- Squizito Tasting Room (Use code "ROOTS" for 10% off your order): rootsandrefuge.com/yt-squizito
- ButcherBox: rootsandrefuge.com/butcherbox
- Growers Solution: rootsandrefuge.com/growers-so...
#rootsandrefuge #homesteading #gardening

[@sarahlynn5147]

Jess I must say thank you for your wisdom. Last year this time I found out I was pregnant. Then on Christmas I miscarried. This led me into the darkest winter I have ever experienced. In January my husband had to begin traveling for 10 days at a time only home for 4 while I was working and taking care of a one year old at home. In the midst of my darkest days I found your channel and it sparked something in me. The way you spoke about God was everything I needed and more. Rather than become angry and upset over my circumstances I drew nearer and prayed harder than ever. My desire to be a stay at home mom grew to a level I didn't know existed. I began by taking those baby steps and turned my waiting room into a classroom. In February I started seeds indoors for the very first time. I didn't know if I'd be home full time by the time I needed to start a garden but went ahead anyway for the experience. Come May my husband got a new job bringing him back home and with enough for me to stay home as well. This month we also learned I was pregnant so we got our finances in order and began paying off debt with our extra income and come August 11th 2022 I was able to leave my job. Now here I sit a year later, with my two year old drinking my coffee on a Friday morning. I now have chickens to collect eggs from, Christmas gifts to crochet, food to can, and a healthy baby growing in my belly that is due any day now. So much has changed and I thank God every day. Those baby steps made all the difference. Thank you Jess for being such an inspiration. So much can change in such a short amount of time.

[@onedazinn998]

aww your comment made me speak "aw" out loud. Thank you for sharing your story and it looks like you have gained strength, longsuffering, & a deeper faith. May God continue to bring blessings to your family & your loving heart.

[@Nancy-zk9dj]

This makes me smile and warmed my heart, thanks for sharing! ❤️

[@augustagootee6254]

Sarah Lynn I needed to hear this bc things have been really really hard this Christmas my dad is passing and my son is really struggling with seizures. I sure hope for that my son be ok and me being in the peaceful place like u. Thanks for sharing!!

[@onedazinn998]

@@augustagootee6254 I'm so sorry to hear what is going on with your family. I've lost many, many folks over the years & I can testify that if you know Jesus, He will see you through these dark times even if you don't "feel" Him. I can look back and see how He carried me & orchestrated my life to handle such deep losses in my life. He truly is our Abba Father. May God lift you up and give you all the strength you need; may He ease your father's suffering and if it's his time to leave, may it happen with less stress on you both. (loosing my mother was the hardest) & we'll pray that your son receives healing! (I know that is scary ;( ! Try to find quiet times to pray but you can pray in all things and may God fill you with His peace in the storms. You will see better days.

[@kristioster8403]

This brought tears to my eyes! congrats on your pregnancy and good luck on delivery.

[@AngelGoodwitch]

"When you love people, everything they do is adorable." I love you, Jess! Everything you do is adorable! You bless me!

[@sherrymurphy-kleine4592]

Yes....this!!!

[@BrendaJMay]

🎈Happy🎂Birthday🎈 ♥️Jess♥️🥰🙏♥️🙏🥰

[@rachelgalus]

Look at this community! So many believers on a mission. A sacred mission. We’re on it together. Now that’s an incredible birthday gift!

[@kelseyelaine215]

As a 19 year old girl with an auto immune disease, just a couple goats, and still living with my parents You are such and inspiration to me. My bf and I have been searching for land near home for the past year with no luck but one day I will look back at these days they same way you are. Thank you for keeping me hopeful. May God bless you and your family❤

[@AlternativeHomestead]

I'm a young chronically ill homesteader too and I just recently moved onto my homestead property to start my journey. Love seeing other people with disabilities sharing my dream

[@suburbangardenpermaculture3117]

It took us about a year to find our new land. We didn't get to 'go walk' a single property that whole time.. we tried driving to them, can't find them or see anything 😔(large, far off the grid Texas land being sold with no address is almost impossible to find manually) Eventually... once we were actually ABLE to buy, we found our new property almost immediately.. 10 days on market, and we could get a walk around! We ended up buying that first walked property... but it was the BEST deal we'd seen in a year of looking, for an EVEN LARGER plot than we ever thought we'd end up with, and it is the most interesting and amazing plot of land we've ever been on! 'About' 40 acres.. 149,000 bucks Fully timbered land with Agg tax exemptions for timber already in place... Amazing! If you wait till you're REALLY READY.. I feel like the 'right thing ' should show up for you.. even if it's not exactly what you thought you'd get! Yall are young but ill.. I just turnd 47 🤣 I'm old and getting infirm. I put my back out 2.5 MONTHS ago, and I've lived in excruciating pain ever since, cannot sleep more than 4-5 hours at once before I wake up in a kind of pain that makes a 47 year old grizzly Gen x whimper in agony... and yet I get up and go rip out more rotten disgusting mobile home debris... scared if I can't get a job soon (since KZbin isn't an income at all) we'll lose it all... but IDGAF... i get right back at it. Y'all seem to have the heart for it, i personally encourage you to continue the path even when it seems there will be no reward..you're doing great

[@vbo9872]

@@AlternativeHomestead May God bless

[@alysunchained1298]

@@suburbangardenpermaculture3117 I learned to ask God's permission. I just tell God that if it's not for me or I don't have his permission that will he please throw up the roadblocks.

[@marinigrey4913]

Much luck to you

[@Joyfulfarmer]

“Even when we tried to push the door open, it didn’t budge…” Sometimes our desires and dreams are planted in us, but the timing is often not ours. We learn so much in the waiting and trusting. We are promised a lamp in front of our feet, and each single step that lamp illuminates more as we go. ❤ Happy birthday, Jess!!

[@tabletalkwithsarah]

🙌🏻♥️

[@TheLeh1964]

❤🎯

[@jeas4980]

Sometimes.. it feels like God is talking to me directly through you. I so appreciate you, Jess. You're a Blessing to all of us. You said exactly the things I needed to hear and that my husband (who I will be sharing this video with) needs to hear. I knew very young (I was a military brat) that I wanted my life, my future families life to mirror that of our families time spent living in a rural village in Germany. Of all the places that I had ever lived... that little cottage at the end of the road surrounded by orchards, gardens, sheep and chickens, little creeks, plowed fields, forests ringed with blackberry bushes and fox and wild boar hunts... that's what I wanted for my children and for myself. And I got that, eventually, starting by teaching myself how to harvest white tail and cook from scratch in my 1bedroom apartment with 3 roommates 30 years ago. It took me almost a decade to find the place I would settle in to raise my children... town of 300, 1 acre double wide... and I just kept learning and growing. A new dream started... elevation... more acreage.. I've been 21 years in my little town. 2 daughters married and graduated college. The youngest son wrapping up his college education... and I did exactly what I initially set out to do. Now, the mountains are calling! But the door is shut tight... for now... but hopefully not forever. I'm happy where I am. What did Dorothy say: "Well, if you can't find happiness in your own backyard, you'll probably not find it anywhere." But I think my "backyard" is bigger than even I realized. So, I'll do what I know needs done and keep hope alive until God opens the door should it be His will. Thank you so much, Jess, and have a very Happy Birthday!

[@anniecampbell8554]

I love those days when the weather closes in when you don’t think it’s a negative. It’s a chance to rethink a foggy day and means we look inwards rather than doing things outwards. I grew up on the understanding that there’s no such thing as bad weather, just bad kit. Or put another way ‘be resilient’, which Jess you have been a role model as you laid out today.

[@susanturner9023]

I love how the barn cats are friends with the sheep!

[@JackieHall71]

Happy Birthday, Sweet Jess. I wish you a year of health, healing, a year of wonderful surprises, and a life full of love and blessing.

[@Rjmaaske]

In 4 years I got married, had 3 beautiful babies, and moved across the country to start living out our dreams. I started with one garden bed in the suburbs to now owning 5 acres in the country, chickens and ducks. A kid who was raised on frozen dinners and fast food who learned how to cook from scratch and can my own food. It has been the most beautiful 4 years, and I know it’s just the beginning. Thank you for the reminder that dreams are progressive.

[@MarysNest]

Hi Jess, You are always such an inspiration with your heartfelt chats! Happy Birthday!! Love, Mary❤️🤗❤️

[@ramblinrosecottage5983]

Happy birthday dear Jess. I'm not a religious woman, but I know that there are certain things/events/moments that are most definitely meant to be. No way are they a coincidence, or a random circumstance. We are guided, sometimes gently, sometimes not so gently, along a path that we might not understand at the moment, but in hindsight, it all makes perfect sense. And the plan was perfect, in every way. I know, deep in my soul, that this is what happened to me... I am exactly where I am supposed to be. And that fills me with so much contentment.

[@EmmaMG21]

Happy Birthday, dear Jess! God bless you now and always! Thank you for inspiring us to go back to the roots, to the garden, to giving God glory and worship Him through everything we do. Sending hugs! ❤ Emma

[@sydneykasmar]

I marked my calendar for December 16th as Jess' Birthday and "Knowing In The Knower" Day. Thanks for always reminding us of the messages you've been gifted to share.

[@amyfreedomluvr5277]

Happy Birthday, Jess! Thank you for your encouragement. Peace, love and blessings!

[@CharEvers]

Happy Birthday!!! Mine is Dec 21! I will be 76! I also can;’t wait to start my garden again in the spring in NYC. I have a Small Dog Dog Club in my backyard every afternoon. During the summer I had my carrots ready to eat! The dogs absolutely love them. One of them knows how to pick his own! so fun. Hope you enjoy your wonderful day when you were born to be wonderful in this world.

[@Nan-Elle]

Happy Birthday Char. I will be 76 on December 26.

[@DH-re6nm]

Happy birthday to you

[@chrissnyder5584]

Happy Birthday, Jess. I hope someday you get to understand the full measure of worth your words bring to so many of us.

[@lyndaash6766]

Amen!

[@nancyhongthe1]

My daughter turns 4 on the 21st. She's the evidence of God's love for me. When I see her desire to do everything I do I see how we were created to work and cultivate this good earth. When I see how happy she is outside in the frost or the sunshine I see how we were created to enjoy all the beauty around us. Yes, a lot has changed in the past 4 years and I'm excited for the next chapter as my baby becomes a child. Bless you Jess ♥️🙏♥️

[@Godismystrength555]

Meeee tooo i want it so bad to give my daughter the nest life possible that has to do with a farm !!

[@annewhittemore3771]

My oldest is almost 4 too. What an amazing age. I have loved his 3rd year of life and I’m so excited for his next year!

[@marlahenry5142]

Happy birthday, Jess. The seeds you have planted in the lives of so many are flourishing and spreading so God's beauty is seen in all we do. Seeds are so small, but they grow and multiply with God's plan - Seedtime and Harvest - He set from the beginning of time. May you reap an abundant crop on your special day!

[@ginnysulya9805]

Happy Birthday Jess! It truly amazes me when I look back over my 63 years how things that were happening to me and around me have kind of come full circle and all I can say is wow Lord, thank you! May your day and holidays be blessed and again when you look back next year on your birthday may it be the most amazing year ever! ❤️🎂🙌✝️🙌🙏❤️😘

[@suburbangardenpermaculture3117]

Happy Early Birthday Jess!! We bought 40 acres of land to start a new Homestead like you guys. We are about 1.5 years behind yall currently lol!! We HAVE the land, and we GOT a free doublewide pulled out there,and we are TRYING SO HARD to go Homestead.... thanks for being an inspiration for us on our channel!!

[@dirtroaddestiny]

I live a similar lifestyle with a single wide lol almost debt free, have about a year left on payments. Almost debt free before my 30th birthday. I love my farm ❤

[@WandaJEaton]

I love seeing all the cows they are so pretty.

[@suburbangardenpermaculture3117]

@@dirtroaddestiny you seem to be doing great!! You're right at my level of KZbin... but you just started this year. I been on here like 8 years to get this far 🤣😂 you must be doing SOMETHING right!!

[@dirtroaddestiny]

@@suburbangardenpermaculture3117 I subbed to your channel my friend. Maybe we can share some farm ideas here and there. Blessings to you.

[@suburbangardenpermaculture3117]

@@dirtroaddestiny aww, thanks!! We subbed you too!! Absolutely, trading knowledge on KZbin brought us this far, we will always wanna share and exchange good ideas!!!

[@melissaschloneger9902]

Happy Birthday sweet woman who shares her life and encouragement with others!

[@Chickanic]

Happy Birthday Beautiful... I will always be truly thankful for your continuing inspiration. You know I wouldn't be where I am today without you. So glad I came across that little thumbnail, of a smile in a majestic garden..... God Bless...

[@battlearmanda]

I love how much you adore Jeremiah! It's so incredibly cute. I also think it's sweet when my partner has his friends come over to hang out.

[@lindakurtz2653]

Lost our home in a house fire in the spring and in that overwhelming aftermath my mantra, my prayer has been DO THE NEXT RIGHT THING. Hard to remember on a day to day basis but as you said "I BELIEVE THIS'. Know that your obedience in voicing these deep thoughts has given me the hook to throw my anchor over, to recenter myself in the midst of all the unknowns and sit quietly as I listen expectantly for His small still voice. Thank you.

[@tabletalkwithsarah]

So sorry for your loss-yes…throw the anchor over…🙌🏻

[@paigerichards3749]

We lost our house, cats and everything on the property in 2015 to a fire and four months before that my Mom passed away. It is overwhelming. It consumed my time for two years with dealing with insurance, designing our home, contractor, building and grieving for my Mom, home and cats. I wanted sooo to give up but my family needed me. I am sure you are going through much the same. We now have our city wanting to turn our home and neighborhoods into business corridor. I think, i don't know if i can do it again, then i thought of those that have no clue what is in the cities plan...so i fight for my neighbor family now. May God keep you focused on what your purpose is. Hugs and prayers.

[@maryjemison1101]

Happy Birthday Jessica 🎂. Be Blessed ❤❤🎉

[@lindakurtz2653]

@@paigerichards3749 Thank you so much Paige. It IS overwhelming and I worry every day I'm not up to it. But then I recognize how fortunate we are-no injuries, no loss of life and we were able to salvage a lot of stuff. Like you, I know my family needs me so I get up every day and do what needs to be done. One day at a time. And I remember it could have been so much worse and others are dealing with so much worse. Hugs right back at ya!

[@Laughing.Lioness]

Linda, we lost our home in 2009 to a single structure fire and I can testify that your continued prayer WILL bear fruit! There will be an end to the turmoil and you and your family will be able to settle into a new normal. HE carried us through the loss of the pets, the loss of all that is familiar and while I would never wish the experience on my worst enemy, I can also testify that HE blessed us over and over and over and over with faith appointments and opportunities to minister, to learn, to grow and yes, even thrive in the days, weeks, months and even years later. These opportunities would have never come about had we not experienced the loss of the home. Throw that anchor and keep listening! You are in our prayers.

[@nancyseery2213]

I feel you 100% When i need a good heart to heart talk with God, I go to my garden. I sit on a wooden bench that my son and grandchildren made a couple of years ago as my Christmas present. I wait for that special moment of calm, enjoy the birds and the bumble bees, and I just know God is listening. I haven't made it to the stage of homesteading I would like to reach and sometime feel discouraged. Waiting is the hardest part, but I know there is a reason things aren't moving as fast as I would like. I'm 69 and still feel I will someday get to where I need to be. I'm not sure where life and God will lead me, but I know the journey is still ahead. God bless you on your Birthday and may your Christmas be MERRY!

[@jessicacote3124]

We were one of those people that came and “met” you in 2020. It’s been so inspiring and we moved to our 5 acres that year in so much uncertainty. But we are doing it, one little step at a time. Garden, chickens, rabbits. Next up is a long awaited fence and a dairy cow. 🧡🧡 Thank you for encouraging us!!

[@jaquelinestrickland2573]

You're always filling our hearts. Your words are so true and just what I needed to hear today; thanks for making me cry. We love you Jess.

[@leahness3588]

Happy bday!!💖 THANK- YOU, THANK-YOU, THANK-YOU for getting your kitten spayed.🐈‍⬛💜they will be happier and healthier.

[@shawnabullock5178]

Happy Birthday Jess. Thank you for being you.

[@paperchaser9565]

Young people of today…listen to Jess! You’ll enjoy life so much more!

[@breannatedder536]

I have always loved your advice to “turn your waiting room into a classroom.” But hearing you talk about how much things have changed for you in just 4 short years was very encouraging. Thank you!

[@lisahenry1467]

Happy happy birthday Jess! I love His still small voice. He does amazing things in and through us when we are paying attention. ❤️

[@Cherie5353]

Happy birthday. In 4 short years I have had a double mastectomy, chemotherapy and survived breast cancer. I sold one home and used that equity to buy my grandparents old home place and made my home. I retired and ready for a new chapter. I’m on gods plan for my life. God bless you and your happy family.

[@JoslynG89]

I’m so grateful that “all the promises of God in Him are Yes, and in Him Amen, to the glory of God through us." Happy Birthday Jess! You’re born on a super special day to my family. December 16th is the birthday of my sweet Granny Sarah (the matriarch of our family) and my baby sister Sara (born on my Granny’s birthday & named after my Granny’s mother - ‘Great Grandma Sara’ {no H}). And for the last two years you, and the Sowards clan, have become very special to me as well. Thanks for all you do and for saving a seat at the table for those of us embarking on our homestead journey. 💜🎂🎁

[@jackieb1074]

Happy Birthday,Jess! Bless you and yours. We are so glad to have found Roots and Refuge, thank you for the inspiration, faith, and hope we feel when everyone says we think crazy. Love the " know in your knower".

[@PrairieDawnC]

Jess, you're young enough to be my daughter if I'd been a teen mom, yet your wisdom is like that of an aunty. WeI don't interact, yet you are a friend and mentor to me. Thank you for being you. I'm so thrilled that you, your family, and your channel exists. Happy Birthday to you!

[@TheSmilemarker]

It never ceases to amaze me how God can get a message across in unexpected ways. Your message today came at such the perfect time. I've been trying to jump ahead to my ideal finish line lately, despite hearing that voice from God telling me to trust His timing and His plan (it's so hard sometimes). But I love the way you explain it in this video. I can't thank you enough for continually sharing inspiring messages like this! ❤️ And Happy Birthday! 🥳

[@noranature]

you have already planted so many seeds in my heart. thank you Jess for your kind words and and your encouragement 💚

[@littlesaltyhomesteader]

We like roasting our turnips - dice, coat with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Throw them in the oven at 400 and roast them until they get crispy sides/soft on the inside! Delish!

[@littlesaltyhomesteader]

AND happy birthday ❤

[@corriebreunsbach7331]

Happy Birthday, darling Sister, I'm so thankful you're here! May Yahweh fill this next year with all His goodness again, for your good and His glory. As we thank Him for His faithfulness to you, and each of us, I also thank you for your faithfulness to sit and listen to Him and then to share what He impressed onto your heart. I am tearfully grateful this afternoon, hearing our Father reiterate through you the same things He's been whispering to my heart for months, years even, now. You're right. This was exactly what I needed to hear. 💜 Much, much love.

[@theresarichardson7495]

Happy Birthday my Sagittarius sister. The inspiration you spread is something that I truly don't believe you understand, your strength that you share is something remarkable. I tell my husband I didn't know I could love someone I've never met, well again you have taught me something I didn't know was possible. This is Tessie from Vermont on her "Paradise Salvaged Farm" Staying strong with your encouragement, there are no words to say thank you. Merry Christmas my friend, you truly are a blessing in my life and I am so grateful.

[@marilynclayton3430]

You touched my souls years ago now. And taught me how to turn my waiting room into a classroom. You also taught me how to find my faith again. Thank you so much for all that you do. Happy Birthday 🎂 and many more. God bless you for making an impact in ppls lives even when you don’t know how you have touched ppl. You have helped me to move through my pain and have a purpose. Thank you so much! 💚😇

[@sheelahbeaver8020]

Happy Birthday, Jess! As so many have said before, you are such an inspiration. I have 10 years on you and sometimes I get discouraged thinking my homestead dreams have passed due to health and life circumstances. But as you reminded me, God has our best in mind and His timing is always right. I hope you have an amazing day tomorrow reflecting on His goodness and what He has given us in Christ.

[@galeharris6696]

December 16th is special for several reasons to me, Jess. Two BIG reasons are that you and my dad were born on that day! I don't think I knew your birthday before, and that is so big to me. My dad is long gone on, but you are right here, and I gotta tell you you remind me of him very much, in your greatness of spirit and your generousity to humanity. He was an artist and a teacher, as well as the person who taught me the rudiments of gardening and foraging. I will drink a toast to you on your birthday of mulled cider, and wish for you great joy and peace this coming year! Thank you for all you do--it is very appreciated.🐝🍁

[@grammi-d]

What an awesome tribute to both of them!

[@galeharris6696]

@@grammi-d Thank you so much!

[@tabletalkwithsarah]

HUGS!❤❤❤

[@tigq1430]

My motto for myself, "sometimes you just have to get out of your own way to see his way"

[@sunflowersteve3940]

Happy Birthday Dear Friend. Thank you for being part of my nudge. I'm still nudging forward and you were there in the beginning.💗 Have a blessed day Jess.

[@bethsands7665]

You are certainly rooted in love, life and faith. You are a great role model for want-to-be homesteaders . You are real and lovely and your journey is awesome ! Happy birthday girl !

[@emblarovardotter]

This video really touched me, like so many of your videos do. It feels like I've been with you since the start as I've watched through your whole backlog of vlogs and tours and devotionals. But I found you just before the pandemic, in the winter 2019-2020. I was in a really bad place with my chronic illness, not unlike what I imagine you've been going through this last year. I could not do anything, had terrible fatigue and migraines and immune-issues so all I could do in the days were eat painkillers and listen to KZbin videos as podcasts because the screen hurt my eyes. I was so Frustrated and sad that my body "betrayed" me, but you really helped me find peace and acceptance and health. And the last three years I've slowly been getting better! I did physical therapy in my garden, slowly building myself back up with you there next to me. I'm so grateful for you being born even though we don't really know eachother, and I'm truly amazed what four or three years can do. You went from dreams to reality, I went from hopelessness to hope and joy. Thank you Jess

[@thewolfethatcould8878]

So very special, I thank you from the bottom of my heart. Welcome to 37!

[@rosewright9451]

Jess, many happy returns of the day for Friday, I hope you get breakfast in bed and pampered all day. That's after you have done all your morning animal chores first ☺️☺️☺️. God bless you.

[@SageandStoneHomestead]

Oh my goodness, 4 yeas ago this life wasn't even on our radar. SO MUCH can change in such a short amount of time. We are richly blessed and Jess you have had a major part in inspiring us in this life. ♡♡

[@margueritelankinen7661]

Your knowledge from experiences and how you present them in your videos is so inspiring! Have a wonderful and blessed birthday!

[@kathyhartle2615]

Happy Birthday Jess! For all of your 36 years, you have done well.

[@kathleenfalkner4478]

I am blessed to have found roots and refuge. I am SO thankful for you Jessica!!! 🙏🏻 Thank you Lord for the blessings of Jessica. 🎂 Happy Birthday Jessica.

[@aura-leekistner1810]

Happy Birthday Jess! Your channel is amazing, entertaining, and educational...love seeing you and your family!❤️

[@amandajennings315]

Just struck my heart with words of wisdom happy tears and all, thank you! I am grateful for you and all you share. Happy 37th birthday Jess, I hope your day fills your heart as your words fill mine.

[@melissaschloneger9902]

So glad to see you take sweet care of the barn cats - so often neglected on a farm (and too many sick ones reproducing). You are a great example to others of kindness to the animals

[@danihuff3389]

Thank you Jess! It's all I can muster right now.

[@silverlineingstar]

Thank you jess for your encouragement! your messages have been with me thru so much over the last 6 years of my life, I truly appreciate everything you and your family do to teach people and keep us all going! You are a beacon of light in the darkness! because of your encouragement i have pushed forward and accomplished so much. I can't wait to see the season you have ahead of you. Have a happy and blessed birthday!!!

[@medaily57]

Wow, how crazy is it to receive this message just when I needed it. I have been trying to "plant a seed" all day and you helped move my hand to cover it and water it in. The Lord moves in mysterious ways. Thank you for being His instrument today!

[@kclancy8128]

Yes, thank you for your encouragement and empowerment Jess.

[@katemcpherson3492]

I have wanted to live a homestead type life since I turned 30. The Lord had other plans and I became caretaker for my parents, inlaws and then my husband. At 45, my husband needed an organ transplant and it took all of my time and energy to essentially keep him alive and see him through a majorly long recovery. He will never be the same again, but I thought maybe we could still do it, but on a much smaller scale. It just isn't meant to happen for us. I have spent the last three years with major health issues of my own. I'm now 56 and living my dreams through videos posted by inspirational people such as yourself. Thank you so much for being such a joy to watch and lifting my spirits. Maybe , some of us are meant to follow a different path. Knowing this, I feel a sense of loss at lost opportunities, but I sincerely appreciate you, and all you do. Wishing you a fabulous holiday season and a happy and healthy new year. May God continue to bless you all . Much love 💕 Happy Birthday!!!

[@plantingseedsoflove8]

Jessica, thank you for your gentle guidance, faith and encouragement. I am grateful. Your wise words and stories are part of the message that The Divine is giving to those with ears to hear. We take what we need from it. I bless your 37th year. May it be filled with good health for you and yours and for all. May you have joy, peace, love, mercy, and abundant goodness for you and yours. I bless you, Jessica always. 💚🙏💙 Thank you for sharing your gifts. 😊💗

[@sharonhuelsman]

Jessica, every time you share about the leading of the Lord, I cry. My husband and I have felt that nudging but it never seems to be the right time. Sometimes I feel like giving up the dream but I’m always drawn back. Thank you for blessing me and Happy Birthday! 🎁🎂 ❤

[@OMH412]

Thank you for this reassurance and reminder. We just moved onto our homestead and our next big step is paying off the credit card debt we accrued in doing so. I'm chomping at the bit to get into bigger animal-based projects, but I'm practicing gratitude actively for what we do have: peace for the first time, happy pets with enough room to be themselves, a blossoming rabbit operation that supplies our compost project, space laid out for a garden next year, and so many dreams with the promise of fruition given a short amount of time. My husband and I go out to take care of the rabbits in the evenings. It's usually dark during this time of year, and every night I stop for at least a second to take in the shadowy contours of our property and the bright stars glittering above us. And every night, in that moment, I say thank you to the version of us locked in an urban living space, staring at walls we didn't own, and dreaming so hard and so frequently that they made this happen. It took us 9 years to get to this point, and the anticipation of the next 9 years could make me cry for joy.

[@FermentedHomestead]

Happy almost birthday! Love hearing how everything worked out!

[@steveegbert7429]

Happy birthday Jess! And please tell Miah happy birthday for his upcoming 38th! It's hard to believe how far you have come in the few short years since I have been watching you and your family grow and mature. I praise God for all He has done in your life to get you to the place you are now, and I honor you and Miah for listening with your knower to do the next thing in front of you! Blessings from 36° Oregon.

[@reginagibson1908]

Happy Birthday Jess 🎊 🎉. Remember God is never early or late, he’s always on time.

[@murphln]

Happy Birthday Jess! Your talk reminded me of a technique that many athletes, entrepreneurs, & motivational coaches recommend -- Visualization. 'Seeing' yourself succeed helps you to believe that it can happen. And in case you don't hear this often enough, you are wonderful!

[@janeallan9491]

Happy Birthday beautiful lady. We are onto the next phase of our lives, in retirement. We have moved off the farm and into town. We moved into our home that was on a quarter acre, that was all grass. We now have a thriving sub tropical garden. We grow a good percentage of our own fruit and vegetables. Our property looks beautiful and suits our needs. This has been a ten year process. I hope you have a wonderful day.

[@loristreit1027]

Happy Birthday girl!🎉. I’m a farm girl from way back, alway wanted to get some land again and finally did. Was a single Mom for 25 yrs so my attention went to my kids. Now 7Yrs ago I met my now husband he bought us a home with 1.2 acres and at 62 and 72 we have built 4 of our own raised bed gardens. We have learned the joy of canning and just love this new life. YOU inspired me along the way , THANK YOU JESS🤗

[@soilandsazon]

Your wise words and constant encouragement are the reason I decided to give my KZbin channel a shot. I felt the calling for so long, but had never had the desire on my radar nor did I want one more thing on my plate, but your voice echoed the small voice in my “knower” (I’ve always called it that too) so I took the leap and while I’m not personally where I want to be on my KZbin journey, my channel itself is so much further along than I dreamed it would be in just its first year. Thank you for always opening your heart to us and sharing the words you feel called to share. We are always impacted by them and sometimes forever changed by them too. Your whole family is a major blessing! Thank you! Happy birthday and Merry Christmas♥️ -Josefina

[@candicecullengrowcooknourish]

Happy birthday Jess! I needed to hear this today. Thank you. 🙏

[@Julie-bq6iz]

Birthday blessings to our darling Jess! 💖🎂💖

[@melindamckee526]

I wish you the very happiest of birthdays Mrs. Sowards! Thank you

[@Britt1586]

I didn't realize we shared the same birthday, Jess! A very happy birthday to you, dear lady ❤️

[@RootsandRefugeFarm]

Mine is tomorrow but Happy Birthday!!!

[@Britt1586]

@@RootsandRefugeFarm hehehe well happy early birthday! ✨💃🏻🎂 Thank you so much!

[@juliereis146]

Happy birthday! So grateful for you and your family and all that you have shared with us. I live in the middle of a very urban neighborhood but not only garden in my backyard but am also a member of my community garden. I have a chronic genetic spin disorder but even on the days that it has kept me from my green places I have still found joy in the little glimpses of life you and your family share, so thank you so very much.

[@nysavannah28]

Happy birthday 🎉 to my motivational friend 🥰who has taught me how to garden, pressure can , find the lord and so much more Blessings to your beautiful family .

[@nikiemery1584]

Thank you so much for your messages and your videos. Have an amazing birthday!!! 🎂

[@tanyabrayer]

How is it that on the eve of YOUR birthday, you give me exactly the gift I needed?! 💛I was arbitrarily going to wait until tomorrow to watch this, but the Holy Sprit kept nudging me and I am so glad I took what turned out to be my next step. 😊You are a living, breathing miracle Jess!!! I hope you have a magnificent birthday and that 37 is everything you hope for it to be and more.

[@airone50]

My grandfather was a farmer and I helped him on the farm when I was a kid. I identify with your life choices, and the knowledge of where your food comes from. I love the plans for the small business in that small rural community as that was a place that was not too far from where I once lived. I get it as its all about connection. I love your love of flowers and green things that you grow as its so infectious. I had a friend that passed last year and before that a daughter that friend gave me my love for flowers and my daughter for life. My birthday is 3 days from yours. Do something for both grief and for love and thanksgiving. Get a copy of the (you got the internet) "Akathist of Thanksgiving for All things" (Its Orthodox prayers and a poetry recited by Monks and Nuns) that raise food so they can pray. That's all we got we tend to this earth and its beautiful and we get to raise flowers and food almost as a prayers so go girl (what I would tell my daughter) Get yourself a copy and please go out and read this out loud and in the garden. I think you would be surprised at this poetry and prayer. It has brought me to my knees and I hope it brings it yours as well.

[@gailmcdonald1946]

🎊HAPPY BIRTHDAY🎁 for Friday Beautiful girl, so proud of you darling ❤

[@suehartwigsen1655]

Happy 37th Birthday, Jess. You are 2 years older then my youngest daughter. God Bless you each and every year that God gives you.

[@momsterwong9088]

Many Blessings to you Jess ... your encouraging words and the wisdom God has blessed you with has given so much of us a peaceful heart...a time to reflect on oneself. Happy Birthday !!!

[@thebackyardhomesteader]

Jess you’re such an inspiration…thank you for sharing the hope of the future🥰

[@Tasmetu]

As someone who is currently on a journey of renovating an old house and retransforming cowpatches into a diverse garden, food forest & healthy ecosystem... I feel your words. The longing to reach the destination is big, but the journey is so, so, so important. No step can be missed. And one day I will sit in my green house or between my trees and reflect on the last years and know it was all worth it. And necessary. Every single step. Even the ones that hurt and the ones that truly test your patience. So thanks for your words. 💜

[@Natasha_Florida]

Jess, I watch several KZbin channels and most of them keep telling me to prepare. Your videos remind me to be in love with my little mini farm. Because of you, I put a little table and chairs in my garden so I can "enjoy" it and not just see it as work. When you love something, you work harder for it. Thank you.

[@rainwaterrefugehomestead2267]

Yay!! Just what I needed! Happy Birthday, Jess!!

[@purplegardenwitch]

This is my new account but I have been following you for years now. You have inspired so much in my life. In the last 4 years, I started out as a single mother, almost losing my life in the process, moved 6 times, overcame the loss of my dearest friend, and a few other family & friends. All while trying to recover mentally from all the abuse I went through. Now I live with my amazing family and am newly Engaged to the love of my life! My best friend since highschool! I finally have a tiny Garden & started a YT Channel, though most of my content has been on TikTok. I just opened my shop on Etsy too. 😭🥰🥰🥰 That voice had lead me to the most amazing things in life and I'm so thankful that I listened ✨🌿💜 Anyways, I absolutely adore you and all that you do. You have inspired me to keep going and dream bigger than ever. The "Ahha" moment that told me "I could make my own homestead too" was because I stumbled across your channel while educating myself to growing food. I will always be so grateful to you! You sent my life on a course I never thought I could have achieved. Thank you Jessica! ✨🌿💜

[@sandraking9650]

Please be an angel, not something evil, you will prosper more

[@purplegardenwitch]

@@sandraking9650 wow.. I'm not evil... Why would you assume something like that?

[@farmonfirefly]

Thanks for the reminder to look back over the past few years and see how far we’ve come and know that I can look ahead with hope instead of the anxiety I have been feeling lately. God has not brought us this far to leave us now. He is with us. May He bless you on your birthday. I’m so glad you were born! Happy Birthday Jess! 🎉

[@t.oliver1728]

Thank you for the wise words and the encouragement to listen to the still small voice of God that leads us in our dreams!

[@leahmanning2545]

To the most precious friend I’ve never met, Jess: First, I'd like to wish you the happiest birthday! Second, I want to thank you. Thank you for planting a seed in my heart. Thank you for teaching me how to nurture that seed. Thank you for encouraging me to not give up when that seed is slow to sprout. Thank you for teaching me to be patient and enjoy being in the classroom. Thank you for reminding me of God’s love and kindness. Thank you for creating a community of people that encourage and inspire not only me but thousands of others who are where you were just a few short years ago. I’m thankful for you, your family, your content, your love and passion that you pour into everything you do. I pray that you have a peaceful Christmas and an abundant New Year! With love, -Leah

[@deborahhasty8515]

Amen to that! Jess, your talk on being led by faith rather than being pushed by fear changed my sweet hubby's heart toward all things homesteading. Thank you and happy birthday!

[@grammi-d]

I second that emotion❣️

[@helpmegarden7945]

Happy birthday Jess 🎉 I think a lot people needed to hear that..

[@rainmomad1103]

God certainly blessed us all when you came into our lives with Kajari Melons and cattle panels. Happy birthday, Jessica!

[@amandahatfield5902]

HAPPY BIRTHDAY Jess. Enjoy your special day.

[@this.vibrantlife]

I cannot properly express how much of an impact you’ve made on me and my life. Genuinely given breath and light to so many of the things I hold dear in my heart. Your encouragement, truth, and humor have landed in a meaningful way. Thank you for the deep thoughts in the greenhouse.😂 Sending you so much love.❤️ Happy birthday!

[@sheraeduncan2980]

I wish you buckets of birthday blessings each day Jess. You are a gift in my life. Thanks

[@1doggymom907]

Happy birthday 🎂. You're precious and adorably to us!

[@etoile2423]

Dec 16 is my 70 th birthday and we live on 11 acres. I started great garden beds and container gardening for my dream this year. 70 is a dream for me. I have been so excited doing this.a year of completion and blessing. I have been following you for a while and you have really helped me. Hugs for our birthdays