The Pursuit of a Self-Sufficient Life

What does self-sufficiency look like in the 21st century? Is my lifestyle self-sufficient? And what would I say to others who want to pursue a self-sufficient life?
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[@levenscott645]

You are the David Attenborough of self reliance. I spent 35 years in television, and rarely did I come across a more natural camera 'presence' as yourself. Your articulate and witty videos are consistently worthwhile. Thanks, again.

[@exundfluriba]

I agree, a natural

[@rosedoucet2188]

Agreed!

[@FMHammyJ]

He reminds me of a combination of Peter Thoday and Harry Dodson of "Victorian Garden"....knowledgeable, articulate, and charming.....

[@paolamura3497]

👏👏👏👏👏👏

[@luvhart]

I so agree

[@prepperinireland2240]

Using my daughter's YT account to comment as I don't have one. I'm an older woman, born in Scotland but now living in Ireland. Growing up in northern Scotland in the 60's and 70's, we lived on a croft with no electric or indoor plumbing. It was normal to us to use spring water for everything, the two open ranges with ovens ..one in the scullery, one in the main room..to cook on, to dry laundry over, to warm the crofthouse etc. Our toilet was an outhouse over a cesspit, and we'd to walk through the cows to get to it (nights, you used a "gazunder"..as in, a pot that "goes under" the bed). My dad redug and resited the cesspit every two years. We kept our own livestock by way of a few sheep, a house cow and pigs and hens. Dad also brought home venison, wild goose and pheasant. He "paid" the local polis of the day by giving them the occasional whole salmon or haunch of venison and they turned a blind eye. He taught me to do the things he would have taught a son, had I been one...culling, butchering, hide tanning, growing, poaching. Times changed and I've lived in houses that are very different. Now, I'm in Ireland, in a cottage over a hundred years old. It has an open fire in the livingroom and a solid fuel range in the main room. It's telling that the kitchen is the largest room in the home. We have a small acre of land on which we keep hens and are turning the field, which was never worked, into a food producing piece of land. At our age it's hard work but slow and steady does it. I just spent three days digging a drainage ditch by hand to divert water that was flooding our tiny polytunnel. I used a spade and a billhook. :) We do call ourselves preppers. I see food prices rise (and Ireland, whilst having some of the world's most delicious food, already had high food prices compared to Scotland and Belgium, where my husband is from). I've seen people devastated and ruined by either natural or financial disasters. So we prep just in case, realism in acknowledging the worst may happen but always hoping for the best instead. Yes, we need money. It comes in the form, for us, of disability income. Husband is permanently disabled and I am going blind.It's not much but enough to pay for the electric (and do you know, we do prefer to use paraffin lamps and candles simply for the atmosphere, for nostalgia on my behalf, and because it gives us a small feeling of extra self reliance) and being online. I'm breeding up my hens using a small incubator and will sell the surplus and give surplus eggs away to locals. We're connected to mains water but I also set up a rainwater cachement system..rainbarrels connected to each other. The cottage also has the old original stone rainwater tank behind the byre, long out of use but fully functional and this year I'll be cleaning it up and out, installing a lid and new guttering onto the barn and using it too. Ireland has no shortage of water. ;) I watch your videos all the time. I've been where you are, and remember the strength and energy of youth in doing what you do, what we did when younger. I can't give you advice. Nobody has the right to and besides, there's little I could teach you. The only thing I'd say is, live in the present, enjoy the present, but also plan for the future, for the time when you begin to slow down, when health issues may hit. I know it's hard to envisage that when you're young but health troubles can happen to anyone at any age tbh. All the best from two oldies not too far from you, to all at Mossy Bottom. x

[@blueblack1997]

OUTSTANDING STORY! THANK YOU FOR SHARING..ALL THE BEST TO YOU🙏❤

[@wooffinesse]

thank you for sharing your story. My grandmother survived 2 wars, she has been living in a small cottage without electricity and running water the entire her life, she had some chickens, a cow, small garden and fresh water from nearest stream. I loved spending my holidays with her, she was always healthy, never seen a doctor, because she didn't need any. If my and my husband will find a proper place in the middle of nowhere with big piece of land, we will stay to the end , living a simple life.

[@clareriley9049]

A fascinating account. I agree that ill health can hit when you least expect it.

[@kirstinstrand6292]

Alice, so well written. Thank you for sharing your challenging and good life. You write and express yourself well. Maybe write a book, for either children or adults. As if you already don't have enough to do, eh? Surely you know a fine life, absolutely exquisite in a very special way - living in the Present. I do understand. Stay healthy and happy.

[@prepperinireland2240]

@@kirstinstrand6292 Very kind words Kirstin, many thanks. All the best to you and yours too. x

[@BenMoranFilms]

"Where our hearts truly lie is in peace and quiet and good tilled earth." - J.R.R. Tolkien - The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring

[@omeringa]

A true hobbit!

[@Ursaminor31]

Beautiful, I’m on my own journey to the forest.

[@christagrote8519]

Tilling is an outdated practice that is terrible for the soil. Other than that, good stuff!

[@randomanonymoushuman]

@@christagrote8519 oversimplification

[@Shridra]

@@christagrote8519 really? That's what you got out of that?

[@phoebeandtilly]

I’m 70 and live in Florida. I wish I had done what you are doing at a much younger age. I do, however, have a garden plot and am part of a community of like minded people. We have gardeners, bee keepers, bread makers and folks that raise chickens for eggs. We trade amongst ourselves. Very satisfying. I enjoy watching your videos.

[@karenlongmore4423]

That’s good to hear:) Re-making community has to be the way forward- we’ve always had community , but it’s become too monetised and the community “leaders” we have now have become almost tyrannical .... maybe the thing is to keep the community SMALL. After all it’s seems that even Laketown (in the Hobbit ) was too big and somehow the people had allowed a near tyrant ( the Master ) to make their lives miserable. :( We are growing a lot more food, ourselves here in U.K. , learning to preserve it and are learning a lot from books and KZbin. Mossy ( now I know he is actually Daniel! ) gave a great tip last time -- keeping some potatoes in the ground over Winter for storage ‼️

[@Ursaminor31]

It’s never too late or too old etc. Start now. I’m 46 and starting now. I have over a hundred years left.

[@andydixon2980]

@@Ursaminor31 Ditto. I'm 46 too and have just planted the seed of ambition. It's now or never.

[@chasethecat3839]

Thats spectacular

[@11UncleBooker22]

Very cool, sounds like a wonderful life.

[@salmon4252]

Im really interested in the meals you prepare from what you gather on your homestead, maybe a cooking series?

[@jackuk4431]

This would be very interesting!

[@mileslindley3760]

@@jackuk4431 hope he doesn't turn into Hugh from River Cottage, started out as a smallholder and turned into a pompous cook. Such a shame.

[@andrewgoodbody2121]

Agreed! I have a great bounty from the garden but the questions I get most often is "what do you do with it all!"

[@TheNotMeTube]

I agree. Don’t turn it into a cooking channel, but maybe integrate some info. as to what you do with your bounty (can, cook,store, trade, sell, etc.). Keep up the great work!

[@886jules1]

Salmon - What a great idea

[@adifferentwayuk3335]

So true, its all about starting. even if its just a tray of cress on your window

[@yvonnes7874]

YezZZZ! Or sprouting in a mason jar ... :)

[@MakeupMornings]

I also dream of self-sufficiency! My dream is to sit inside a cottage with a candle lit and write novels with crackling fire sounds in the background! 😊

[@drzeworyj]

you might want to watch this documentary then! :) kzbin.info/www/bejne/gJ2vkop4jcuErrc

[@MakeupMornings]

@@drzeworyj Thank you! I loved it! :)

[@lesliewatts2878]

Well done Daniel. You have helped me understand my son so much better. He too lives on his own and prefers life that way. I can be at peace knowing he can look after himself. Keep safe.

[@andreab9351]

You are a very wise man. It has taken me a life time to reach the same conclusions about life, but, better late than never.

[@886jules1]

People in the past didn't have a totally 'self-sufficient' lifestyle either. They didn't do everything themselves but were dependently 'self-sufficient' (sounds daft but hear me out). My countryside great grandparents used to keep cattle, sheep, pigs and horses as well as chickens, geese and ducks on their farm. Their neighbours would pool together to buy a calf, piglet, lamb (or share of) every year and they were raised on my grandparents farm. Once grown, those animals were butchered and divided out as per everyone's share. My grandparents got enough to pay for all their farm's seed grain for the year and neighbours got meat they couldn't raise themselves. Some people paid with money but most paid with their skills (basket weaver, seamstress, carpenter, blacksmith, lace-maker, labourer etc). This chain of people relying on each other for specific items allowed eveyone to share what we think of today as a 'self-sufficient' lifestyle. I hope this takes the pressure of people who love this lifestyle but worry that you have to do everything yourself. It wasn't true then and it shouldn't be now.

[@andymccabe6712]

Humans are social animals! 'self sufficiency' is thus achieved as a group, rather than as an individual - simple....!!

[@veemcg3682]

I agree with your ideas we all need each other and success comes from recognising what we can do and what we need others to do. We are all different thanks be to God but it takes us all to make a community work.

[@Ursaminor31]

Beautifully stated. This is the way

[@annika9348]

agreed, community is essential for survival/living, we just have to find our own ways to contribute

[@mrp8317]

Lamas eco village is a good one still need money but as a community you can have a better skills base to use to grow but most animals did used to grow with no antibiotics and much less feeding Knepp castle shows this with less people in the world would mean more natural land giving free ranges animals a much more varied diet

[@nikkat6797]

Intentional life. Full of wisdom. Awakened. Not many people achieve this.

[@blueblack1997]

I would vote for you to be an actor in a medieval movie! You have the looks of a Knight and such a pleasant voice. All the best to you and your dream like videos, I always re-listen to them before sleeping, they give me the feeling that I am entering the tunnel to MIDDLE EARTH🤗😊

[@tutejshaja]

Exactly 😊

[@mollyinmaine]

He reminds me of Orlando Bloom.

[@NorthWoodMouse]

“Walking through a portal to Middle Earth” - yes please! 🧡🧡

[@nillohitbarman5760]

This is the goal my dude, this is the goal.

[@kitbirskovich1838]

Your eloquence is almost as wonderful as your insights...

[@jackuk4431]

My wife and I have begun to hunt for suitable land in the west of Ireland to follow our dream of a self-sufficient low impact lifestyle! We always look forward to your videos and have been inspired by your content! Thank You.

[@jacksg1809]

So am I but without much luck atm 😐

[@jlmfoy365]

I think the main point in that comment is low impact lifestyle, if we could all just lessen our impact on the planet just a little bit then progress might be made. Regards Jim.

[@tracyyoung4484]

My husband and I have just purchased a hobby farm in country Victoria, Australia. Hoping to be able to start our 'self sustainable' life. Good luck to you. I hope you find your dream plot in Ireland.

[@wendysweet808]

We too moved from uk to west coast Co Mayo, trying to do the same thing renovate property and sustainable living 4 years now so great luck to you

[@BigBoom92]

Nothing wrong with having a part time job to pay for tools and materials, vet bills etc. The best outcome would be to sell some produce or make up some kind of arts and crafts to sell online. This would be the closest thing to "self sufficient" as you are creating your own income.

[@thekrrib]

My dream. I'm so over having a boss telling me I'm wrong coz I think or do things differently to him (and I only work 2 days a week). Before I got my PT job I was clipping dogs (in home) and oven cleaning ... I advertised on FB.

[@kali-66]

Resiliency is probably a much healthier goal to have than self - sufficiency. Human beings need each other and sufficiency is much more easily achieved with co-operation with others, our society needs this emphasis as well in order to be peaceful and harmonious with the earth.

[@leanhnguyet71]

With all of the vegetarians who love fresh plants and vegetables , here is a real paradise with love .... !. 👍😵👍

[@alistairkay3264]

9b in9

[@debfryer2437]

Freedom was my word. I wish I had been able to pursue this kind of self sufficient life. What a wonderful way to live during a pandemic.

[@thekrrib]

I grow a lot of stuff, forage, preserve (bottling), build and upcycle a lot. I spend every day at home ... as you do when you live this way. During the lockdown I had a bit of a quiet chuckle to all those people going stir crazy at home ... welcome to my life! To find fulfillment at home is a wonderful thing IMO. I'm glad the lockdown is over though (I'm in New Zealand) coz there were far too many neighbours around! 😆 I'm on 1/8th acre in the suburbs (soul destroying that) ... no lawn - just gardens, 2 poly houses and a garage to build stuff. Looking for a bigger place, but NZ is a terribly expensive place to live 😔

[@tinagaelalu6213]

Right ! ❤️

[@colliecoform4854]

My grandmother was born in Sligo on a farm. She emigrated to New York and raised a family. She became the ultimate city girl except for summers spent at the beach. She never wanted to go back to a rural life and the hard life it was. It is her grandchildren and great grandchildren who have started to pursue a country life. I imagine she is shaking her head in disbelief.

[@ralphfurley4217]

I call it reverse immigration. Same here. My great grandparents came through Ellis Island in NY from the 'old countries' to start a city, civilized life. Now I want nothing more than to go back to the countyside.

[@thesecretslimmer]

My mother was brought up in a small village in Nigeria where they farmed their land. She now lives in a city in the UK. She would hate to live in a village let alone farm, but as for me I am the total opposite. I want to go back to a more simpler way of living.

[@maryrose4712]

@@thesecretslimmer Our grandparents had it so much harder than us, no surprise they don't want to return. I hope you try and make a go of it, you can always return to your old life if it doesn't work out.

[@janiematts905]

Daniel, I would love to see a "from paddock to plate" of how you harvest your vegetables and prepare your meals, you are always such a vision of health and serenity. Thank you for your wonderful channel.

[@SpaceApe020]

When you mentioned stepping into Middle Earth, that really hit me. The Shire or Rivendell would be heaven on Earth

[@IrishKingzz]

me too haha

[@TheGreyzer1]

Me three

[@nachtvacht8210]

For me it would be Avatar

[@tygerstripes3752]

Rivendell is my mental go-to place when I need to be calm. 8^)

[@manuscarlisle463]

Heaven on Middle Earth!

[@marktrvls1218]

I blame all the processed food for all the chronic health problems people (myself included) have in our society today, all the takeaways and ready meals and sugar crap I have eaten I think have created my awful digestive problems now, a problem you will probably never have living the way you do Mossey Bottom.

[@lierredaly1066]

+pesticides and chemical fertilizers, and lack of nutrients in the food that we eat. And the way we live which leads to chronic stress which causes disease.

[@janonthemtn]

Now pushing plant protein as suitable food for humans. Refined carbs are pathogenic.

[@aspenram3885]

... People have always had health problems they just died more often before.

[@Donneczka1]

Always inspirational Daniel! We’ve been sold this materialistic dream about what we need in life, so most people sell their souls to have things, the wrong things. Unnecessary things only weigh us down!

[@Immortal_Hunter]

I can almost cry seeing the beauty of the life he has. 👍

[@nicolaj3294]

I did cry

[@Immortal_Hunter]

@@nicolaj3294 we must stop crying and start working.

[@pumpjackpiddlewick]

Brilliant! You said what I think and so eloquently. We homestead in France, in a small village, and are 'self sufficient' ish. Grow almost all our own veg, have ducks (and hopefully chickens in future). It's a restoration home and garden (hence why we love watching your videos). And as each year progresses, we will do more. But we also recognise that we wish to be part of this village too, which is why we moved to it. A very nice blend.

[@nickduffy8482]

I loved this story and you are helping me make a decision I seem to have been putting off most of my life. Thank you for the inspiration, I am one small step closer and i want you to know that you have reached out to me in a very profound way that may cause me to make some huge changes in my life. I admire your sincerity and honesty and most of all your wisdom which far exceeds your youthfulness. Thank you.

[@lrigdrenlrigdren2147]

:-)You said it exactly! Daniel and a few others (even sinister Mr. COVID) helped me have resolve to leave my job in August after 26 years in education, & try to pursue some delayed dreams, things that suit this introverted middle-aged person better. I'm not quite where I need to be either - I still need an income stream, but so far savings are carrying me. And I'm loving gardening and writing, especially the freedom and peace aspects of those. I wish you the very best likewise!

[@angelatillman4323]

Your more self sufficient than most. In history people did need each other to survive. I think we still need that now, but it seems its a world of "your own your own". Being less dependant on utilities and stores is half the battle. The world now is based on convenience.

[@a-b-jackson]

Daniel, if you haven’t read it already, you may enjoy ‘The Stars, the Snow, the Fire: Twenty-Five Years in the Alaskan Wilderness’ by John Haines, a memoir about his homesteading experience - such a great book, and something of a classic now.

[@wooffinesse]

for me this lifestyle is a true freedom, because even if the economy collapses I can still put the food on my table

[@paullooney8960]

Yep as somebody.said to me one time,If you can put food on the table,and have a comfortable bed to sleep in,then anything after that,is a bonus.

[@tinlidtoo6615]

For me retirement has been my idea of self sufficiency. I do for myself when I want, how I want. I dont live close to other people anymore and I spend my days making my own clothes and creating the art that fills my soul. So yes, it's about control. I'm happy to eat the food others grow, I take care of my property and help the people I love.

[@its_msk]

When you talked about how the lifestyle of self sufficiency fills alot of those wants of pleasure and satisfaction hit home. I think alot of us dissatisfied with our daily routines or jobs do seek out fulltilment in other ways just to make up for the lack we feel on the daily, therefore spending more money on things that arent that necessary. I think one of the main points of dissatisfaction is that in many of our working days, our days are not our own and how sad is that. Hello from BC Canada

[@nicolaj3294]

Totally agree with you

[@connieprettyman6131]

I am a woman 82 years young, and this video made me cry. It is wonderful that someone so young has this figured out. So much truth! I admire you very much.

[@kenmaloney3948]

I'm always quite excited to see a new video post from you. I envy the way you live Daniel. I am at a crossroads myself after feeling a decline in my mental health for a number of years now. I can "hear" the wilderness calling but I also have loved ones that depend on me so I am searching for a balance of both worlds. An escape to a quiet place to search for meaning and also spiritual healing is a journey I would like to embark on. My family and I have also recently moved to Fermanagh from England in search of a rural "homestead" to start a new chapter in our lives. We hope something comes up soon!! You may be interested in checking out another channel I watch where this guy shows his wilderness adventures. His channel is called Advoko MAKES.

[@mmladyg]

Love that you opened this video with a job description of each resident critter and ended with "for me and the crew." Thank you for sharing your lives.

[@itsmewende]

I remember you kindly gave a little girl some strawberries for her birthday, after she left you a nice note at your stall. You and your animals are living the good life, evident by the fun at the end of this video. Also curious to what happened to one of the ducks.?

[@debbietodd8547]

what better birthday gift could anyone ask for than a basket of sun warmed strawberries !

[@tutejshaja]

I wonder what happened to the quail 😅😟

[@basharbahlawan504]

I dream of self sufficiency every day. One thing that scares me though is applying to volunteer at a homestead with absolutely no skills and being a burden to the owner who needs help managing their land. Asking questions every 10 minutes does not sound like help! Perhaps I should prepare in some way in my tiny flat in London to give me the bare minimum before setting out to learn these awesome skills. They most certainly will be quite the adventure!

[@Cate7451]

See if you can grow a little on a ledge, a community center, take a night school course in something, (making cheese)

[@basharbahlawan504]

@@Cate7451 that's a good idea actually. Didn't realise there are night courses for this sort of thing

[@andymoore9977]

10:57 'An Act of Self Sufficiency' - this statement is so rich in empowerment. So many folk are banging on about how 'self sufficient' they are because they grow some veggies and keep a pig. Here we have someone 'telling it like it is'. This is truly a valid philosophy for 2021 and beyond. I can't wait for the book.

[@artitexture2787]

Working so close to soil and our planet is indeed so fulfilling and so natural. And in many ways this has become such luxury, only very few are able to live such lifestyle. It is amazing Mossy is so good at achieving this after many years of being an office drone.

[@realeyesrealizereallies6828]

What you have done and others like you, is you took control of your life and time, and live life on your own terms, to the fullest extent possible, freeing yourself from the mold imposed by society....I never considered a middle earth scenario, but I always dreamt about being alive when America was pristine, and living on the frontier of civilization, for the small amount of time, that life was a possibility...I always tell people i was born 150 years too late...You are setting a great example for the transition period that we are in, although few among us understand that reality yet, many are instinctually drawn to a more sustainable life....It's a wonderful life you've created, I suspect that lifestyle, is right below the surface, in all of us.....

[@ardhanariswara]

You have a natural talent for presenting your message and explaining clearly. I have had self-sufficiency projects and lifestyle as my guide purpose & fulfilment since reading books by John Seymour in the early 1970s. You are a credit to this way of life to keep the continuity from our ancestors unbroken & alive. I was accused of being an idealist. But I know now that if we humans don’t relearn to connect with & live closer to nature. We are doomed.

[@melchristensen8282]

I love this. Every new vid is an inspiration. I'm selling my house this year (I moved from the country to the town and it's a move I regret) and one of the sites I've been looking at has an acre of land. TBH I'm sorely tempted. I already have an active interest in plants and gardening, grew up in the country and help my parents with their own polytunnels. I'd like to aim for being at least partially self sufficient. At the very least, I'm getting myself some hens (grew up around hens and I miss them), solar panels, and a small polytunnel to grow some bits in. I'm also Irish and well used to our changeable weather. :) Love your vids, so informative and helpful and honestly a way of life to strive for.

[@aNaturalist]

Good luck with your move back to the country! I also grew up living on the edge of a small town on a few acres. Life took me to the city as I wanted more dating options, but now at 40 I'm trying to leave. I rent on a large acreage on the city's edge, but traffic is crazy here and eventually having a paid off home is wise. Daniel does have the best channel, but there's a two other great Irish channels that I watch that you might enjoy. Red Gardens and Way Out West Blown in Blog. You may know of them already, but they are terrific to watch as well, for different reasons. The guy at Red Gardens compares popular gardening methods and keeps terrific records, makes charts and graphs, etc....

[@ciaranosullivan7791]

I also watch those channels, another one to watch is Tap O'Noth farm in Scotland.... Good luck with your move, I hope you find a suitable place.

[@Starlight22215]

Middle earth does exist. I’m not sure at this time you can walk through it but it’s there.

[@frithar]

LBC yes

[@omeringa]

Listening to you talk about meaningful things in life in your calm way, brings me a lot of peace in these modern times of struggle and isolation. Thank you for sharing Mossy!

[@elegantsufficiency2866]

Yes! I completely agree. Self-sufficiency is a spectrum and so long as you're consciously working towards it, it rewards you with a great sense of freedom. I work full time in a good career but it's my journey towards self-sufficiency, sustainability and connection with the natural world that gives me satisfaction and purpose. 💚

[@martinsutton1996]

One of my favourite parts of your videos is the last minute or two! Your shots of kittens or Moss playing, or the many other shots of animals just doing there thing peacefully is wonderful. Always lovely to watch. Please don't ever cut them out!

[@catherineshaw1122]

Have you ever connected with Collette of Bealtaine Cottage? I think you're relatively close, both being in Western Ireland, and her 3 acre small holding and cottage are also inspiring and amazing. Seems you would be kindred spirits with tips to share with one another.

[@nicolaj3294]

I watch Colette and have thought that too

[@ballockybill2277]

Keeping and taking care of a horse is a full time job in itself . And they eat a LOT !! You've gotten a lot of work done ! The place looks like it's taking shape for you . Good man !

[@mariebrammer1652]

Hi. Thankyou for your videos. I'm making better use of my garden and allotment this year. My aim is to be more self sufficient in food, reducing waste and reducing plastics. Watering done by collected rainwater from the garage and shed. It gives me a sense of pride and achievement. Small things all add up.

[@bristolveggiebeds5310]

I'm glad I can grow what I can, people should do what they are comfortable with. Your land is beautiful!

[@mags102755]

I am glad you are as close to self-sufficiency as you can be.

[@davidevans3175]

I'm reading Lord of the Rings again right now. Yes, stepping into the Shire, of course that's what we all want. Some of us, anyway, and quite seriously.

[@janetgordon2484]

It's so true. We need to get our minds right in terms of commercialisation. We need to stop wanting more as it were and just be content in the small things. Watching a seed burst through the soil is still one of the most amazing things for me. Everything in its dna is contained in that seed. Awesome. Thank you for sharing.

[@conormckenna25]

Thanks for the calendar at Christmas. We love it. Good luck, you're an inspiration!

[@youwaisef]

I just started a desk job for a week now. It's not fun. There isn't even a lot of work to pass the time. I think about meaningful work from time to timre. I know it isn't very meaningful. I'm still sticking to it for at least a whole year to build the habit of doing what I don't like to get what I need right now. Your life seems like a fantasy come true tbh.

[@Cate7451]

That seems like a good reason to work.

[@how2withbasics567]

Never a truer word said that in this day and age without income we are doomed as even in the wildiness maybe owned, property / land Tax is payable. I respect and admire you for all that you have accomplished over the past number of years and wish you well.

[@yeshprab]

I admire you, Mr. Mossy Bottom, for what you have accomplished in such a short time through hard work and perseverance. And above all, I have thought many times your kind-heartedness , when you picked the largest, most luscious strawberries from your harvest, put them in a large box, wrote those kind words in a Birth Day card, and presented them to a young young girl as a gift. I can only imagine the shriek of joy she made as she opened the box and saw those strawberries. I have watched dozens of your videos and have enjoyed every one of them. And I feel happy when I see your always smiling face. Wishing you a very long , fruitful, healthful, productive and joyful life. Yesh Prabhu, Bushkill, Pennsylvania

[@rebeccaknudsen6190]

This reminds me of my grandparents homestead in up state Washington USA. There really is nothing like it! Working hard in the beautiful land that gives life is so abundantly! Their nearest neighbors were 5 miles away, but nevertheless they looked out for each other. There was always work to be done. My grandfather always loved to work & taught me his love of accomplishment through work. He fished everyday of his life, chopped wood, picked berries, gardened, helped with children. It was an enviable time to be sure. There is a solace that comes from being more self sufficient and living off the land, figuring out how to live. I totally agree with the core things we need are few and very satisfying to supply for ourselves.

[@derekdalton5658]

Love how the food stall idea pays for washing and drying in winter. ❄ that must be so satisfying.😀

[@yvonnebroughton6522]

Thank you so much for sharing. Love and light for us all.🌏❤

[@christhomas8332]

I'll say it again, you set me free from guilt that I prefer my own company, I'll never try to fix that again 🙏🙏🙏

[@paoluccio77]

This is pretty cool! I had had the same dreams growing up and started my little farm this year :) after years of gardening on very small scale backyard gardening and building up experience for what is to come now :) Everything you say is so true!

[@christineschollar1317]

It was always my dream to live like you do. I did and have done some of the things you do. Back in the day when I was younger it was frowned upon. So now I follow your story and watch your videos with joy. Watching you living your ‘self sufficient’ lifestyle. I was always someone who dreamed of living without money. A ‘let’ system, sharing skills etc. It never happened and as you say it’s more or less impossible to live without money. Something I came to realise, sadly. Thank you for sharing your videos and story. I wish I had your faith and determination when I was your age and was not put off by all the negativity that surrounded me. Maybe if I’d met someone like you when I was a lot younger that would have helped. Keep making the wonderful videos.

[@mharrisona5526]

Although I don’t aspire to quite the lifestyle you’ve chosen.......the implicit constraint on travel opportunities is a deal breaker. I very much respect what you do. I started watching this channel long ago because of interest in the cottage restoration but have taken inspiration to employ at least some of the principles of self sufficiency and sustainability. Good stuff!

[@8bitgubben]

Is 2 weeks of travel worth a year of slavery?

[@mharrisona5526]

@@8bitgubben I don’t consider being a doctor slavery. I consider it a service.

[@gardentours]

When I see what you've done since you bought your land, you achieved a lot. Respect.

[@daryloberacker9041]

My wife and I have recently found you searching for Kune Kune pigs, but found that you have so much more to offer us with tips, words of wisdom, and we love your videos. Keep them coming!! From Salem Oregon to my wife's home island of Ireland.

[@8507582]

Daniel, One fun comment. I grew up with the ever present Bigmama (Grandmother) in Georgia (USA). Her vocabulary was amazing and one word I remember her saying was 'insipid" which I heard you use correctly. I've not heard anyone else use that word in many many years... Kudos to you!

[@amypatterson-bocchi2514]

Firstly, those cats are too cute. Secondly, thank you Daniel, I love you videos. They inspire me. I am dreaming of my own pursuit of self sufficiency! Keep up the fabulous work.

[@peterbaader334]

Working for the Common Agricultural Policy, I promise to spread your videos as much as I can! Well done, David!

[@lurmot]

You sir are are one of those original nerds. Before they went all trendy. I salute you.

[@katapilaro1823]

So good to hear you. There is actually a real world next to the strange propagated new normality of digitized corona madness. Working in the garden is therapeutic. By the way, you are a gifted speaker. All the best!

[@eamonnleonard9162]

To be able to live a self sufficient life and enjoy that life in so far as one can be self sufficient, and to not dwell with a sence of loss on the parts of life where one can not be self sufficient is the ultimate freedom, and I would imagine it would come back to having a healty state of mind. A mind embued with a strong sense of appreciation, and empathy

[@alexanderhawk2659]

*mid January In Ireland *everything is still green --rolls eyes

[@jackchild2879]

are you suggesting he's deceiving you? You do know winter vegetables and grass remain green in winter?

[@alexanderhawk2659]

@@jackchild2879 I am suggesting hes got it good living on an emerald island, when others are hopping through snow drifts.

[@jackchild2879]

@@alexanderhawk2659 haha fair enough. That's the problem with internet comments, it's impossible to gauge the intended tone. Thought this was a strange place for conspiracy theories!

[@bully08873]

Nice video. It's good to present and not push the lifestyle as most people have no idea of the amount of work it takes even to grow a bit of food, let alone all the rest.

[@Beth_Agnes_Casey]

There is a homestead connection here in the states that families help each other with our infrastructures to establish a self-sustaining life that should be mentioned. Unity among our neighbors with special skills are important as well.

[@primrozie]

I agree about being as self sufficient as possible. We added skills year after year while we had jobs. We've been selective as to what "ways" we would continue to keep and what we would drop because it was worth not having the responsibility of. We tried to make our homestead as easy to operate as possible because of our age. Our home is about 900 sq. ft. and inexpensive to run and maintain. We converted the stove from electricity to propane, use a wood burning stove for heat and have a solar array ready to install. We dehydrate, water bath and pressure can food. The hot beds we're building will allow us to grow some of our food through the winter giving us extended fresh meals. We raise chickens. We have a well for our water. Now we are retired and are satisfied with with what we have going.

[@obayhosni]

I think you should consider writing a book about this my dear .. you have a beautiful way of putting words together.. and a deep philosophical way of thinking .. All the best of luck and happiness to you .. I will start working to achieve this kind of lifestyle one day cuz i believe i will find true happiness and fulfillment there

[@chaoskittenxo]

Only person in Ireland who comes anywhere near close to the complete independent self-sufficiency as you described would be Mark Boyle in Galway (he wrote a few interesting books on living without money etc, his one on his current lifestyle is called 'The Way Home'). But even he isn't entirely self-reliant as far as I know and uses a very minimal amount of money. He doesn't use electricity, the internet etc. though. Just moved onto three acres myself so my polytunnel is being prepped and I'm starting to plan out my own homestead! Your videos have been extremely helpful Daniel!

[@kierstenhoyal6572]

Daniel, you are a treasure. Thank you for these lovely calm videos. I live vicariously through your adventures!

[@livingladolcevita7318]

Hi Daniel, have you done a film on how to find a property for a similar project like yours if not could you do one or give some pointers as to how to go about it?

[@janonthemtn]

You tube Becky’s Homestead (she just had her cabin moved to a larger parcel of land) wrote a book on how to find land.

[@tutejshaja]

He has made a video on this topic, look it up

[@livingladolcevita7318]

yes! my memory is terrible.

[@vargavideo]

. "Self sufficiency is a spectrum". Agree. These days, seems the World doesn't appreciate such nuanced points of view. Thanks as always for another great share.

[@Peregrine1946]

Thank you for your lucid and well paced discussion. Your videos are one of the pleasures that I have come to anticipate and while I didn't get your calendar this year, I'll be on the lookout for it in the future.

[@bernardofitzpatrick5403]

inspirational lifestyle man! Am going to make a determined effort to become self-sufficient. You are Ireland's answer to Henry David Thoreau of Walden Pond fame.

[@asmallholdinginfrance6829]

Self sufficiency means a different thing to different people based on so many scenarios. I think a more realistic approach is what and us and so many modern homesteaders are doing, produce as much as you can, barter, sell surplus and make income to supplement your lifestyle, choose a less consumer based life, simpler life style and reducing waste. Well done for your achievements so far!

[@ThisisArtSoitis]

Great progress man! Its very impressive what you've done and you inspire a lot of people to make positive changes.

[@missy-me]

I admire you. You are living my dream. The only thing I would add is flower gardens 😊

[@JulieonYoutube]

As a wise person once said: reality is even more fantastical than fiction... I understand the desire for self sufficiency, but how much greater it is to be able to all be one.. and share and help and learn and grow and be together... I am so happy that you are not self sufficient so I can share a little bit of love with you on Patreon as you are sharing your love and learning and experience with us! :)

[@alexjulius69]

Agreed, there's no reason to lose the leverage you gain from society, as that's what got us this far in the first place, but relying fully on society is also not a good idea. Middle ground and balance, that's the best way to go

[@Dragons_Novel]

For me, being self-sufficient is the ability to survive if I need to for a long period without outside help. For some reason if I can't access food and other items to sustain life from outside sources, I'm able to live with what I already have or make or grow. So while I can't make salt, I'll have a good supply in storage and get more before it runs out. An ability to go months on what I produce (eggs, vegetables, etc.) and store (salt, flour, etc.) is what folks did centuries ago. Even settlers in the western frontier of the US bought bags of flour, sugar and other items to see them through a long winter. That's the level of self-sufficiency I'm aiming at. Thanks for the video. This is my first time watching.

[@lillianglenn7130]

Hello Daniel my name is Lillian I have been watching your KZbin I have enjoyed watching you from scratch amazing I think that we all should try and get out there and do the right thing for the environment and our selves good luck for this new year may you prosper much more

[@KeiteiVentures]

Well said ~! Start small and build up, appreciate it as you gain it and smile :D!

[@nathan.heinrich]

Bravo Daniel! You’re a prince! 😏👍

[@kristinekreicberga7278]

There is one documented case of a family living for decades 100% self sufficiently, although it was a rather tragic story and they wouldn't had been able to do so indefinitely. There are several documentaries about them on youtube - the Lykov family. I also remember reading about them in the newspapers in late 1980ies. All in all I agree with what you say, thank you for your videos!

[@rosemarievosburgh5377]

Great job as an 86-year-old female I love everyone of your videos I only wish to like take care be careful and I love your dog

[@manuscarlisle463]

Love it. Looking forward to the next update on the cottage!

[@thelasthomelyhouse]

I have started following a young family in Sweden - Talasbuan - which you may enjoy if you don’t already know them. And my channel is named after Rivendell of course, so I am with you when it comes to wanting to live in Middle Earth! Plus, Daniel, look at all the money you save on haircuts! Fantastic xxxxx

[@andrewgoodbody2121]

They are great! And the camera work is excellent!

[@tundereinhardt4676]

😂🤦‍♀️😂

[@Booboonancy]

Ah yes, that hair 😍

[@diogenesthevlog6589]

I often think about the fine line between self sufficiency and survivalism. There's a TV show called alone that covers to topic well

[@elizabethcrawford2883]

Well done, excellently said! God bless you my friend! Less dependency on money = freedom!