We Should Celebrate This

[@Exiled.New.Yorker]

Watching homesteading videos has taught me that about 80% of farming is carrying things around in buckets. :)

[@TheHollarHomestead]

That is the TRUTH! Lol!

[@theodorebormet1780]

my grandfather used to say blood sweat and tears is not just a saying,its build every farm in america

[@lynntheokie8370]

True.

[@hollybacon3172]

My little urban homestead is full of my blood, sweat and tears. I used to think it was just a say... then I learned better!

[@jeaniepartridge6701]

It is true of every business not just farms.

[@Lynrick1]

The sweetest, she is a keeper "I don't care about the money, I would live with you in a car" 😍😍

[@eldaremington341]

The year between be California and finding your new land was so good. The boys gained so much... all the places they saw...it was priceless.

[@Rockin8Farm]

I literally love y’all in the least stalker way possible.

[@jackd.ripper7613]

Isn't it a shame you have to qualify that these days?

[@Rockin8Farm]

Jack D. Ripper well I was being funny...but your right...it is sad

[@JoJoDragonslayer]

😆😆😆

[@jtrose6995]

Rockin 8 Farm me too! Who knew i would find them and be captivated by this awesome family....such a surprise!

[@mylifesjourney...sharonkar7802]

Me too!

[@jackd.ripper7613]

"Consumerism" is an empty amoral wasteland and completely uninspiring. Pulling a living up from the ground with little more than bare hands is the exact opposite: Spiritually enriching and physically satisfying at the most primal levels of our being. Best of luck to you and your family. edit: word

[@TXNLaurenMcN]

Jack D. Ripper ~ "Word," indeed! Tell me you're a writer. That was beautifully said.

[@lexxfrost798]

Wonderfully put.

[@chuckbrooks7489]

Normal is living off the land, that's what people were meant to do. Cities are wastelands full of dead dreams and desires. Everyone tries to find meaning for life, when it has always been right in front of them. Good on you guys for doing it, I'm working on it myself here in AZ. Love you guys

[@boxtapper8550]

@ Jake D Ripper : Well said & put, it would take me 10 pages to say what you put in one paragraph. I doff my hat & bow to you sir.

[@cpk4772]

If yall don't mind my saying, I'M PROUD OF YALL!!!!👍👍👍👍👌KEEP UP THE GREAT WORK!!!!👊

[@savagesquad8546]

I love seeing the boys do chores with you. You are raising up the next generation of wonderful MEN. Teaching them young the value of working hard is awesome!! No lazy bones going on at your homestead!! Wonderful video and thank you for sharing!!!

[@beekind4141]

Their boys are so sweet.I always enjoy watching this Family. They are doing a wonderful job with the boys .

[@MrCoyotebob]

I want to see the log cabin the boys were working on last video. How other many kids would put the effort into that?

[@savagesquad8546]

@@MrCoyotebob I know right? They getting to be boys! Instead of having their faces in phones or computers or the TV they are outside! If we could roll back the time so other children get to be kids again would be cool!

[@anndillon3341]

It's been such a privilege to have you share this ongoing journey, to be able to vicariously share in your struggles and successes, your heartbreaks and joys. Happy Anniversary. Thank you again.

[@janetleeharrison]

Love the way they always look at each other - my heart melted when he tucked her hair behind her ear - sweethearts! I love watching their laid back demeanor & thoughtful approach to learning homesteading. The boys following dad around fondly, watching & learning how he does things. IMO, this is the best way to teach your kids...not all stressed out & yelling at them like hired adult farm hands.

[@blueheronfarm3818]

Divide and conquer, y’all! Do a project or task, to completion, then do the next task. For instance, do the floor of the mobile, get it done, do your knives (either do a certain number or plan to do it for a certain number of days), plant all the seeds, do another mobile home project, etc... If you do blocks of projects, you feel accomplished at every step and you’re doing it in small bites, compared to having projects hanging over your head. Congratulations on your “Opting Out” anniversary.

[@VertDerFerkMom]

"Who wants to be normal?" I'm just fine being the weirdo in the family and neighborhood! I'm opting out, one small step at a time. The slow progress is so hard, and I'm the worst at wanting to catch up and do exactly what everyone else is doing. I have to constantly remind myself that my situation is unique and I just need to let it evolve and be weird!❤❤

[@TheHollarHomestead]

So, so true! And what works for one person might not work for you at all, so your own journey is the best one to be on! ❤

[@sandyc6569]

@@TheHollarHomestead 👍

[@cherylt8590]

Texas Micro Homestead,being the weirdo is the best thing yet,as there's nobody else like ya,love it👍😆...

[@lenoracullor2203]

Love these videos of everyday chores and life!! Being farmers for the first 48 yrs of our marriage and now "retired"? for the past 19 yrs (we can always find something to do) I can relate to the joys and struggles. You are so Blessed with your family and life. Now in our 80's we enjoy seeing you young ones living the good life! Love the Hollars!

[@moniquepronovost1373]

Dont forget once the mobile home is done it will free that time for knives and soaps keep up the good work it will come

[@faithrada]

Good reminder. A time for every season. PS.. Love Starks trees. I've had good luck with them.

[@brachashighhopeshomestead226]

well it's two years later & they can't even get away for a weekend to go to HOMESTEAD MEETUP!! They still are busy busy building the land up. of course a new child changes things too!

[@cynthiacombest5]

You guys are the sweetest, most humble homesteaders. I really appreciate what you are doing.

[@WildOnesHomestead]

And what a jam packed 2 years it has been!! I've loved following your journey. 🥰

[@marilynhuffman1059]

“We’re committed to this”. Awesome. I’m proud of you all. You all work really hard but you also take a few minutes for yourselves and those precious children. AND you’ve just started this life. Give yourselves a break. Love you guys and thank you for sharing your lives. God bless you all

[@katemcpherson3492]

Great that you have a free source for wood chips! With all your land, just section off a designated area for them to drop off, and you will have the greatest compost when it all breaks down. And FREE!

[@dianehall5345]

Kate- Thanks for replying. My heart goes out to you and your husband for recovery. I have one crushed disk that has healed. It can be managed with limited lifting and raised bed gardening. I also scoot around on a seat with wheels in the main garden. Everything is pared down for my limitations and so far it works out well. I make more trips rather than carry one heavy load. Do you have a patio deck where you can have pots of vegetables and flowers? Also maybe window boxes or trellises? Wishing you and yours healing for 2020.

[@katemcpherson3492]

diane hall we have primarily a concrete back yard. Our side yards have some grass, but not much. The front is again concrete. My husband chose this property to make life easier on us with mowing, and bending etc. I’m hoping to get a few grow bags or 5 gallon paint buckets to put on the patio. The porch is about 2 1/2 feet off the ground, so with the added height of the bags it should be enough so I don’t need to bend too much. Like Jess from Roots and Refuge says “store bought tomatoes taste like disappointment and sadness”.

[@AlpacaMade]

This is a common theme among the newer to homesteading folks I follow. Slow and steady. Great conversation, Happy 2yr anniversary ;)

[@jesselevan676]

We just moved end of December into our 30ft rv while we save for our homestead. Y'all are an inspiration.

[@clairetaylor2926]

I am really proud of y'all! Mostly for recognizing what is really important and then taking steps to fix it. Hard to believe it's been two years and you are being so smart about how you're going at it. Slow and steady, wins the race. As the saying goes. I love living vicariously through all my young, energetic, KZbin homesteaders. Thank you! & this fan is rooting for you!!!

[@walkbyfaithfamily9177]

I’m just waiting and praying for my Husband to want land as much as I do. He is building me a chicken coop this week!!! Huge step toward my dream. 👏👏👏 Thanks for the encouragement!♥️

[@faithrada]

It all starts.... with a chicken coup! 😍

[@stacyleigh124]

I was talking to my 17 year old son who's dad (my exhusband) owns a very large cattle ranch, I own an 8.5 acre farm full of mini horses, milk goats, chickens, hogs, rabbits etc. He loves both lives but he told me the other day that when he takes over his dads farm some day he wants to sell all of the cows except a few to raise calves and butcher and start a large diverse farm like mine. I raise hogs for meat, my exhusband obviously raises his own beef and we trade meat, I send him pork he sends back beef. And to hear that my son wants to continue that tradition and even start raising a large herd of sheep with me one day, made me so proud. His dad has taught him so much about cattle, farming and hunting (the kid can butcher a deer all by himself) and I have taught him the value of gardening, canning, raising your own food via eggs, chickens, pigs, dairy milk etc. Even if in a few years that's not the path he chooses, to hear he totally understands the importance to us of homesteading/ranching/farming lifestyle that we have worked so hard to instill in him made me so happy.

[@zaviahopethomas-woundedsou9848]

I love planting new trees!

[@hector131]

It's 22:41 in Sweden and my friends are asking why I am delayed for the party. Little do they know 😍🙈

[@TheHollarHomestead]

Aww, I take that as a huge compliment! Thank you! ❤

[@faithrada]

Priorities dude! Hehe

[@mickieb946]

The modern pioneer but the same spirit of old ~smiles~ sell up, load up and seek a better life. Thanks for continuing the tradition and letting us go along for the ride!

[@daysmiles27]

Your coffee/tea time was adorable. Such a sweet couple.

[@robertemmons7636]

Love watching the journey. Remember slow and steady creates the homestead.

[@hanorabrennan8846]

Oh my! You are spoiling us. Snuggled under the duvet while the wind screeches like a banshee outside. Dog snuggled on the bed and now you! Bliss.

[@pameladecicco6509]

I am in Ireland too...wind screaming for over a month! Ridiculous!

[@sherbrownsf2]

My fav saying about my life and how I move through my goals and priorities....pace yourself girl, pace yourself. Be proud..you both are doing the dang thing!

[@tomstack6871]

congrats you guys are aperk-up for me and my wife,who are starting a homestead this spring in new mexico at 65 hoo hoo!!

[@vickidecker9923]

It's all about the journey.💜

[@susieb9533]

That's where I'm at! I spend all my time away from home expediting freight to from Canada to USA, when I have a day off I'm doing truck maintenance/cleaning. my garden gets neglected but I refuse to give up on growing my own food. I'm completely burnt out right now, something has got to give.

[@jackieoman6695]

No explanation necessary ! Your doing great !!

[@Mary-yu3sn]

chips also bring in mushroom mycelium and that also will feed/give water to the trees and bees and in garden's "walking pathes" gets better when everything is set up you will get more time..

[@YolklahomaRocks]

It's been a minute!! Congrats Hollers!! Goals and lists. We made a goal list...then numbered it in order of importance. Then we started making a do list every day & we number it too. Things come up that are not on the list or something changes the number order like weather..so we move to the next number that we can do. THERE IS ALWAYS THINGS THAT AREN'T DONE EACH DAY. However we just move it to the next days list. When we are ready to start a project from our goal list...we make another list...supplies etc...and when we have it all then we do it. Doing it this way allows us to see where our time is spent and any adjustments we can make. Little tip...we always write down things we did that weren't on our daily "to do" list. Love and hugs from us. God bless 👍❤😊🙏

[@annettemaddalone4297]

so happy your taking it slow and understand the feeding the animals cost

[@DaveSJS4ever]

You know what is really scary now is I wish I was where you are. Away from the city, trying to be off grid, on land, trying to be self sufficient. Now we are still in the city, with nothing it corona virus reports coming out from everywhere! We are 67 and 70, being told in self quarantine to stay home, and not be around anyone because of our age bracket. I’d rather be where you are right now. So I’m so glad you did what you did, when you’d I’d it. Bravo! 👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍. You were both very smart to get out and do what you did for your family. The Homestead community is the best, because the city community suck. You don’t have neighbors or friends because they don’t want to know you or help each other. I’m so very, very glad you are where you are. The one thing we have going for ourselves is we are debt free. Which is awesome! But be proud of what you did and are doing. So much better for your family. I’m just praying we can get through this crazy stuff that going on. 👍👍🧶🧶🙏🙏

[@theveggieboys]

@ 17:00 I know how you feel! My brothers and I are the 6th gen on our farm and we have a huge family! At the moment we are blessed to do a lot of the things you talked about, but I would say accomplish one at a time. We have a vegetable farm and market, plus all our animals. You can do it I believe in you! . Keep up the hard work

[@gaylynn6252]

Love your channel. You guys refresh my life.

[@brendabumgarner5278]

You are going about your homestead in a very smart way. Planning, budgeting, and remaining debt free. Your teaching your children well. I celebrate with you!

[@PiaLiljebladh]

I so admire your curage, determination and perseverance! I dream of opting out a little bit...

[@cindybonem494]

Well, aren’t you having fun! I know it’s hard work but it’s the most fun too. You said you hoped that the trees weren’t crabapples, because you want apple apples😉 but crabapples are really good pollinators so there’s that also my Grandmother made spiced crabapples that were delicious! Ball blue book used to have a really good recipe of simple syrup cinnamon sticks, cloves some other stuff, they’re spicy and warm tasting perfect for fall dinners as a side dish, good memory’s. Be careful that the wood chips aren’t walnut because walnut roots, bark, leaves, will kill other trees, it’s a survival thing and I don’t want you to accidentally kill off your trees, I had no idea about that until last year, I watched a tree guy on KZbin. God bless, Cindy

[@territn8871]

I think you have done so well getting your new farmland going good. You've gone onto it in small increments, first a few chickens, then added a few more. Then came the two pigs and not long afterward came the adorable piglets. Those pigs have been worth their weight in gold because they are clearing land that was unusable otherwise because of all the underbrush, etc. Then recently you actually harvested your own hog to provide food on your table. All the while, you have been remodeling the mobile home to have a nice home in the near future. So I'm proud of you all for your hard work and dedication to live off your own land and make homesteading your way of life!! I know it hasn't always been easy, but I know when you wake up every day there is a peaceful feeling inside to know you don't have to go out in the rat race and stress of working 80 hrs a week working for the other feller! You're the boss now and work at your own pace. It's a more balanced life because you establish what projects to do each day! And if you need a few days off you don't have to ask your employer if you can take off. That's freedom and a beautiful life if you ask me!!!👍❤

[@robertouellette9450]

Remember,winners never quit,and quitters never win ,so follow your heart God bless.

[@Avendora]

Time Management. My recommendation would be to schedule your week where each day is a different project. That way the project gets the time it needs, but you can still tackle all of the projects each week. Just a thought.

[@4philipp]

Avendora that also help make better estimates of how long a task should take.

[@faithrada]

@@4philipp I have ADHD so everything actually takes way more time than I think. Once you learn that... you're fine.

[@4philipp]

Faith Rada absolutely. If it takes you double the time then that’s your baseline. Really comes down to prioritization of thing you feel you can get done and end the day on a high note or tackling things that likely won’t get done and ending the day on a low note. . I have learned to take one day at a time. It’s a journey we all fight as individuals, so our speeds will also vary.

[@faithrada]

@@4philipp Yup. : )

[@beccag3871]

Scheduling with reasonable expectation of the time it takes is good. Reason being, in my opinion getting a sense of accomplishment when looking back at all you have accomplished in a day, week, month, or year. Instead of focusing on what wasn't accomplished, or what needs to be done = stress, you set up tasks, mark them off the list, and maybe get a thing or two extra done = relief.

[@shuddle82]

Hey, crabapple jelly. Be happy for the rain, we live in a drought stricken area

[@TheHollarHomestead]

Coming from CA we totally understand drought (5 years and counting when we left), so it is GLORIOUS to have rain!

[@pattyprice2644]

I grew up on a farm we had 3 huge gardens which us kids did the weeds and gathering What mother couldnt can,freeze,,butcher we gave away We had dairy cows and sold our milk to cheese plant but we always had milk and homemade butter etc We had an orchard over by grannys that we gathered every fall We had a sawmill to do our wood for heat and selling My mother made most of our shirts,shorts,dresses i always loved looking at patterns Our life was hard work you either sweated or froze,and laughed and cried but it was amazing as well To be able to have all the love from the animals especially horses and sheep was just amazing Our ducks would always lay there eggs in the creek so we had a blast gathering them eggs We were so blessed to be outside everyday I still carry the farm in me to this day and i do live in the country and loving every minute of it You are so blessed to have made you decision to leave and find your forever home im so happy your boys will experience that farm life Congrats Ben n Meg 2 year and so many more to make family memories

[@AuntieEm294]

Congratulations on two years! From dream to reality. Best blessings for your next year! One day and one step at a time. You don't have to have everything or do everything all at once. One paycheck, one bill paid off, one chicken stew, one beans and rice meal at a time. It happens. Your biggest part was having a vision of your future. You've given me back my dreams. I appreciate you. I'm not going on the same road, but that's fine. Watching you take one step at a time reduces my frustration that I can only take one step at a time. We are all on the planet together, making it better or worse. I see you making it better. I want to be part of that, too. In my own, way, I'm doing it. Love you! Hugs!

[@HoneyHollowHomestead]

It's great to have a willing and able partner to work with to achieve your goals. 🙂

[@CustomPortraitArtist]

This video is one of the best video you’ve ever filmed. Do more of this! It’s authentic and great to hear your thoughts, dreams and struggles. You didn’t try to make it interesting but to be honest it really made it so much better! I absolutely love it! ❤️❤️❤️ it’s like we’re all sitting there with you.

[@THardy.]

Congratulations on two years. Sounds to me like you have a good overall vision and know your priorities. Be patient as things come together . . . it takes time and a lot of work. LOVE seeing the boys with Ben as he goes about his chores. Your hard work is paying off as things come together on the farm. Thank you for sharing your life with us. LOVE your videos!

[@debbiepitcher9806]

It feels so good to be debt free in fact it is amazing ☺️☺️☺️🥳🥳

[@pineyridgeal7473]

Hollar Homestead is one of my favorites! The beginning of this video felt a little different and I really liked it alot...just watching Ben doing some chores with the boys. This is good stuff and please don't edit out too much, thinking that we are getting bored with it because we are not! Think about it...we watch Rhodes do the same chores everyday and we keep watching. I like it when yall include some talking but I love it when we just watch yall do your thing with some good music playing. Happy anniversary and congratulations on the major accomplishments to the homestead. Thanks for taking us along!!!

[@histarfish]

You all are doing just fine. Time passes so fast. I can’t wait to see a video ten years from now showing your beautiful property.

[@HanginOutWithStan]

Y'all get more amazing every week. Amen to planning! My grand plan was to find 10 to 12, maybe 15 acres. I wanted something similar to y'alls. Pasture land plus wooded land. A river or creek or big pond. A house that was not necessarily big and definitely not fancy, but livable. Out buildings in place. I'm getting tired of living in my RV. Through Zillow I looked in many states. I found several I really liked that were affordable. Then it started getting time to prep spring gardens. Grass started growing. Almost overnight I realized I was too busy to consider anything bigger. I had no spare time to travel to look. I have the perfect setup right here, already. My house is still ruined from hurricane Harvey but I love this place. It is beautiful. So for now, my plan is to stay here, keep rebuilding, making this place more productive, a little at a time, all alone. It would be great to have a partner again but when any come out here and see all the work I do, that scares them away lol. I'm happy, I have peace. I'm excited that everything is budding and blooming, so --- I'm not going anywhere. Y'all are very smart. And I truly do love y'alls place. And all y'all.

[@archaprice3372]

Hangin Out With Stan you are inviting the wrong people over, the right person won’t be frightened, keep looking, you deserve it.

[@brachashighhopeshomestead226]

can i make a belated suggestion? what about going to a homestead gathering? it's hard to get away from the work that needs to be done, but it will really inspire you to meet others who have achieved & also those hoping to try some steps up. Good luck & success to you!!

[@HanginOutWithStan]

@@archaprice3372 sorry I didn't see your response until now. Lol I reckon you are right. That would have been ideal but it never happened. I got some serious health issues now so last year I sold my beautiful place and bought a small house in town with only a quarter acre. I have gardens here but nowhere near what I had before. And no grapes, berries, fruit trees or nut trees like I had before. I met the young couple who bought my place, they have two very young sons who loves that land. My heart is happy someone like them got it. The young lady there is already prepping her autumn gardens and she has never gardened before.

[@HanginOutWithStan]

@@brachashighhopeshomestead226 awesome idea but the last couple years I developed some serious health issues and had to sell that place and move into town. I still garden at my new place but nowhere near as much as I did in the country.

[@archaprice3372]

Stan, you are doing the right thing for you, keep it up and may God bless you and your smaller garden.

[@LittleMountainLife]

Y’all are truly and inspiration to so many.

[@TheTexasBoys]

We are looking forward to finally getting to meet y’all at the Shindig! See ya there-

[@TheHollarHomestead]

Woohoo! So glad you’ll be there!

[@verladavis3808]

you guys really pulled me through today.... I'm building 2 new raised beds for my backyard garden. One bed was almost done just 8 more screws for today when I came in the house for a breather and found your new video.... after I watched it I told myself "get up old lady and get that job done." More to do tomorrow but my goal for today was met. Time management tip from my old life (Training consultant) make a job into small objectives and "eat the elephant one bite at a time" Nothing feels better than making a list and marking the things off at the end of the day. Thanks for the motivation.

[@helenhuskins4231]

I was moving woodchips with a shovel one day and somebody stopped me and said “use a pitchfork to move those”. Best random advice I was ever given! Try it! I didn’t think it would work , but was wonderfully surprised! Happy anniversary! Love you guys!

[@wolfpack3889]

Congratulations ya'll 💝🎉💃🕺 So happy for you. This has been our plan with my husband since we got married 12 yrs. Old. We made it out of the military, college, 5 moves, 2 kids and now we are saving💃🕺 We live in Northern California and have no problems with leaving. My husband is also a Machinist with a refinery and I to have seen people's marriages go through rollercoasters to try and survive the rat race. Bless your family. Cheers to a wonderful family adventure and future😊🎉💪🙏💝 we can't wait

[@jeanettedickey6748]

The being together 24/7 is an adjustment also. Always remember that the kids are building a foundation their life will be built on.

[@katemcpherson3492]

I wish we had explored the idea of what you are doing when we were younger. We are mid 50s now With health issues, and know it is too late to attempt it. We are loving watching you succeed! I hope to meet you one day!

[@donaldmiller8629]

@ Kate McPherson , It's never too late ! I am 77 y/o and just now developing my 6 1/2 acres. And I have health issues such as congestive heart failure. First , I have to live somewhere so why not here ? If I do not get something done today or this week even , well , there is always next week or next month. It is never too late unless you have simply given up on life .

[@katiegarrett822]

I got my property to late but I got 3 archers have raised chickens and a garden. I've been here over 20 years. Can't keep a lawnmower going like I need to but I love it here.

[@b.wooten4505]

Kate McPherson I’m 55 and I opted out four years ago and yes it’s hard but small steps lead to big happiness!! Maybe look for a place that you can raise some chickens and know you are better for it!! Good luck!!

[@Creative-Chaos]

I am 57 and I will be retiring in two years. I hope to have a small homestead as soon as I retire. I am too young to quit working and too old to start a new job working for someone else. I am going to enjoy my retirement working for myself on a small farm.

[@ldg2655]

Kate McPherson don’t let that stop you!! We are mid to late 50’s and we are embarking on our journey soon..

[@ciaobella8963]

Meg and Ben, I want to thank you for this video. I am going to share it with my son and his wife who live in southern California with their two young sons and have been talking for a few years about how to get out from under the grind and make an income online. Mostly so they can be together as a family. I'm sure they will be encouraged and inspired by your conversation in the video. Also, I would like to make a recommendation that you plant 3 or 4 olive trees on your land. Plant them in a well spaced cluster on the terraced area so the soil can drain after heavy rains. I have several olive trees in my garden in Italy and they grow well on terraced land so the roots don't get saturated. They also do well in the NC climate. I lived in NC for about a decade. It can get very cold where I live in the winter in northern Tuscany and olive trees thrive here. So why am I recommending you guys plant a few olive trees? Well, apart from being able to brine olives, or make olive oil, the actual leaves on the tree are the best anti-viral medicine ever. Infuse a handful of olive leaves in hot water (don't boil) and you can add ginger and lemon as well, and some honey when steeped and poured into your cup. I felt very led to say this to you. God bless you all. Love and hugs from Italy.

[@nancylee331]

Great vlog. Now you are climbing the up hill part but with each accomplishment it will get better and better and pretty soon you can look back and say wow thank you Lord. God bless you and the boys.

[@marilynray5797]

There was an apple & Pear trees on our property when moved on the property. My Daddy and Momma had green thumbs. Daddy planted a grape vine that grew the most amazing grapes I've ever had. He also planted fig & peach trees. For many years these trees put the best fruit ever. Around 4 yrs ago the ants moved in. We tried to kill them but nothing worked. Not even the exterminator could not do anything with them. So the ants actually killed all the peach trees the grapevine and even trees that we had planted in our yard. Lightning struck the Apple tree split in half but we were able to keep half of it. It still makes great apples. The pear tree still makes great pears to. I believe we live on a massive ant hill now.

[@poosmate]

So glad you are pacing yourself and keeping it enjoyable, it sure will get you through the tough times. Take care, Poo

[@shuddle82]

You will love it once you finish your new home.

[@jemmiestone5731]

What a blessing to get all those wood chips delivered. I know it has been scary and frustrating at times, you all are doing great. Nothing wrong with going slowly. Some people get so excited and get this animal and that animal and all the projects, that they do get burned out and start regreting their decisions. This way, you know what it takes to take care of the animals you have and the projects you are doing. I love Y'all's videos because you are both so honest and share from your hearts. God Bless Y'all.

[@lauriewind6366]

Well, guys, through all the hardships and endurances, its such a blessing to see your glowing happy faces now.... you make me smile every time I see you ( and hear your cheery intro). Maybe you don't see the progress you made on your land - but from outside: it seems BIG!!! You are doing it right, one step after the other and it comes together....and the most important thing: You lived through it and not suffered through it, what a difference.

[@susanlee9532]

Oh! I absolutely LOVE daffodils and bluettes. Wasn’t quite sure if those were bluettes because I was still inhaling the fragrance of the daffodils.👍❤️❣️🥰

[@Coltrabagar]

I'm really glad this is helping your marriage. You guys appear to get along really well and enjoy being together.

[@wenknight8586]

Hey from Australia. I am so grateful to your channel, you have encouraged me to grow stuff after I had lost interest! I rent so everything is in pots. I have just had an enormous crop of a capsicum (red pepper), yup I said 'a' capsicum. It was blown off in the wind and is nearly the size of a cherry tomato or grape! I was super excited anyway! Keep doing what you are doing the way you are doing it!

[@danburns8476]

Hi Ben & Meg, i have been a long time follower i love all that you are doing, i do not have a channel but i can't wait for your posting, the only thing i have is face book.I looked & noticed you do not have a pay pal account,i hope you consider pay pal good people want to support good people, think of how good it makes people feel when we contribute, no matter the amount, on other channels i see 50 cent donations even up to 300.00 dollars, make people feel good & at the same time be blessed. I am an old 86 year old Marine vet, in my younger years i have lived the life you two are living. As always i pray for you every day. love you guys.God BLESS YOU.P,S. You might want to also do live , super chat , check out the Crockers on u tube.

[@deborahjaniak7531]

Think of how grateful you will be when you guys will be in your house , looking out your windows seeing your accomplishments and drinking coffee!

[@jmthomas29]

We were going to do meat birds this year. However, I was diagnosed with liver cancer two days after Christmas. I am so thankful for the homesteading community. We asked someone we had met through a vlog and in person at HOA. We are going to pay for everything and help process but they are going to raise them for us. Opting out where we can is definitely a scary thing but so worth it.

[@milkandcookyz]

I saw "sow the land" buckets and I had to double check to make sure I was watching the right channel

[@pamalapeterson5352]

Love watching your boys working together with their dad! Thank you for sharing God bless y’all abundantly and stay safe!

[@va7sew]

Well done, time management is hard......so wonderful to watch your journey, thanks for sharing

[@kimgoren8895]

Thank you beautiful people for talking about how terrifying it is to make this dream come true. Cause I am terrified. Thank you for the encouragement. It is so needed and appreciated. Happy anniversary.

[@wesolds8875]

I can't believe it's been two years. I've watched you when you left California. Thank you and keep on keeping on.

[@williamscarla01]

All the yes, right in this one video. We're less than a week from moving from 0.5 acres to over 16. We've dreamed for 10 years to opt out, and here we are. I didn't imagine how scary this moment would be! But here we are, embracing it. Thank you for sharing your celebration. It's inspiring and reassuring to us, following behind you. Truly. Salúd to you guys, to spring, and to the journey of leaving suburbia.

[@zhane6816]

What an amazing life, you are both giving your children,the option of continuing. Your hard work today, is setting it all up for, the future generations of your family. What a great legacy to leave for them.

[@renatev.7473]

Now , after watching the video past the great boogie music, I have to say growing your garden is a must. Potatoes, carrots, turnips,beans, Kohlrabi and anything else you like will feed you along with the chicken and pigs. My husband an I just finished eating the last of the garden potatoes we grew last year. Still have tons of veggies in the freezer and so happy we were blessed with a great harvest last summer. So yes, you have lots of work ahead but you are your own boss and as long as the family is fed , you get to decide what is next on the to do list! Enjoy...and thanks again for the dancercise you provide! 😉

[@christycoalson36]

I love being able to hit that 👍 before even watching a vlog. Love me some Hollars

[@vietnameraveteran8207]

Congratulation's on your two year anniversary; your little Rancho California looks impressive!

[@davidb9708]

Keep on truckin'!

[@The44Irish]

Jason, I found your missing bucket!!

[@TheHollarHomestead]

Hey now, it was a gift. 😂

[@bettinah.7429]

The Hollar Homestead 🤣

[@silpalhano5967]

A very nice gift you will not forget them 😂 neither will we.

[@The44Irish]

@@TheHollarHomestead lolol

[@happysfamilywnc]

What a great story, thanks for sharing! We also moved from our rut in NJ to Asheville area 10 yrs ago. We started our lawn care and Landscaping business and there’s nothing like being an entrepreneur. You have your own schedule on your own time. You’ll get the time management down, it’s still new. Y’all have some much on your plate trying to get everything ready but once the house is down, you’ll be able to relax a little. Yes just take your time and do it slow. Our moto is, Bee happy or at least try!

[@happysfamilywnc]

Oh and yes I know that cold sweat feeling! Eww!

[@4philipp]

Certainly a day to celebrate. Most of all, rejoice in the family you have and the time you get to spend together. A good homestead grows at the same pace as a slow growing tree. It’s 50 years later when everyone admires what appears to be natural.

[@carolinewest2217]

You realized your dream and went for it. I admire what you have done with your and for your family. Everything has turned out great. I hope you and your family have a great evening.

[@texasforgesanddiabloburner4523]

I’m so happy to have been able to watch your journey and see how far you’ve come your story resonates with me so much and we really love your channel. At 43 my husband and I made the move to NC for a job opportunity he was offered and we spent two years there loving it in Williamston, NC in a 1900’s farm house on 2 acres but as life happens my oldest girls had babies in Texas and my health took a nosedive despite the amazing healthcare and life changes we’d made to be healthier there I finally got an answer to the problems that had plagued me for 25 years and we had to move back home to Texas to be closer to family and grand kids, I loved NC but having a tribe of support here we found that good friends and family and community was not something we could live without there. So at 45 we are starting over again to find and build our own homestead again and have started our own channel to document our journey and learn new technology and give the kids a tangible memory they can look back on when I’m gone. And you and jess from roots and refuge have been a huge inspiration to not give up despite fighting my own body to get things done. Sorry for the novel just to say how much our family loves you guys xoxo

[@h20dad1]

After watching your channel for a few years now, I am so so super glad you decided to move where you did because of your great community and its where all of my favorite youtubers live.

[@dianebrezo3672]

The most important thing is you two are still together through it all and falling deeper in love. I think it's a wonderful love story!💖 keep on keeping on and thank you for sharing your journey.

[@donnagulick8198]

Congratulations Looks like you all have been doing awesome

[@lindaglover9248]

Happy anniversary! Thank you for sharing all of the twists, and turns of your amazing journey! Here's to a life well-lived! 🥂

[@annemarie3636]

It took you 5+ years to get out of debt and set yourselves up for your new life, so obviously it will also take you years to get your grand plan for the homestead sorted. It is the journey that counts as well. You are doing really well, making steady progress, and it is a joy to see your frequent updates. All the best from the UK!

[@lyndabuchholz1216]

I retired and bought 10 acres and I have worked harder than before but it is mine and for me. I have had friends and others ask me why I haven't gotten animals and other things but I am doing it at my rate. I love it and I know if a person over extends ones self you will hate it. Slow with joy is the way to go!!

[@129kittykati]

Caring for a homestead and a family takes a lot more time than most people think. But I think you guys are doing a great job.❤❤

[@annamariatakacs5727]

Dear Meg and Ben, I did follow you through your travelling looking for a place of your own... Thank you, I did thoroughly did enjoy a journey with you all over your country. I was very excited for you when you did purchase your land. Then all sort of things was going on in your doing on this new property it was quiet overwhelming just to watch. I couldn't keep up with your all sort of craziness to do, also Meg's goat soap business so I did stop watching your posts for a while, but Both of you were on my mind wondering how you doing....Also, I was very happy for you to be strong spend your own "holiday season: alone. Now I am just so happy for you to see your very healthy good looking animals, indeed it is a lot to think about in every way once you start a new exciting journey. You know what? Your thinking is right everything is "baby steps" do not bulldoze your energy down and all steps are in your time and space. Do not let anyone to dictate you also you have 4 boys whom need home schooling too. Meg darling, even you do budget- your cooking skill and management always will provide good food and great feast to your family. I've seen you what can you create in that little space and all the satisfaction on all of your boys face. I will look forward to see again how you doing and keep up the good work! God bless I do not have emoji but sending you a love heart :-)

[@lonagan5894]

I'm in the middle of a 12 hour shift listening to this vlog in the background... I hear you say "If I can work for someone else this hard I can work this hard for myself". I have lots of equity in my home and all my debt is paid.. You certainly got me thinking !!!!! :) I look forward to your vlog every week. Thank you so much for sharing!!!