We Were Headed For DIVORCE | We’ve Been Keeping A SECRET

7 months ago We were not in a good place. During this video we tell the story and let you in a big secret!
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[@smnlikdat]

If an old KY momma can give you a little advice. Let your marriage always be like a weeping willow tree, bend at the times that are necessary but never, never let them break you. God Bless

[@tassiegirl1991]

That is lovely

[@kate4biglittlevoices]

Amen

[@sharonkeef0522]

I love this

[@RandomHippieCreations]

Yea ma’am 🤍

[@melaniejohnson3130]

Amen. Great advice. Like the song by Tanya Tucker "Strong Enough To Bend"

[@mefford67]

*A couple that can persevere through the hard times and can keep smiling makes a marriage even stronger. Married for 32 years and I KNOW...* 😉

[@michaelsherron5750]

Perserverance: AMEN!

[@RootsandRefugeFarm]

I love yall so much. Yall are heifers for that teasing intro though. 😂 But even still, I do love yall.

[@barkhollerhomestead5987]

They scared me to death there for a second that's for sure lol

[@lavendercrowl5695]

I was thinking the same thing Jess, thought they were going to say another Stiver was on the way! 😘

[@laurasparkman2660]

@@lavendercrowl5695 Me, too!

[@SteppingBackInTimeKentucky]

i remember that video all too well... it was mid winter when we got the chance to watch it. We were just getting by because it was cold, and being in the construction business, work either slows or comes to a creeping halt during that time of year. We found this video when we could only sit here and dream of spring... and better things. It soothed my soul and helped to keep that spark alive in our hearts to just keep pushing forward on so many dreams and goals of our own!!!

[@allenfarm]

Today I am thankful for you, Jess, being a vessel for God to speak his promises.

[@janpsillos5513]

I wanted a third child and to be a stay at home mom, not in the cards. Became a single mom, raised two wonderful kids, work as a counselor help ing many of God' s children who are my family. That's a blessing God gave me.

[@somebodysomewhere5993]

Your a Blessing

[@jamesgabor4047]

You guys probably don’t realize but your an inspiration to many of us , God bless you guys and good luck with your “expansion “ 🌹

[@breezybest6064]

I'm so happy you're having more children! I have 8 children and we've been homeschooling for 27 years and it's been our greatest joy to have this wonderful big family! During this 2018-19 year we've been dealing with our 5th child (16 year-old daughter) who was suddenly diagnosed with ALL (childhood leukemia). The most horrible thing imaginable to happen to a child (and their loved ones), let me tell you. It's amazing what a family can get through when they settle down and make the conscious decision to lean on the Lord and work on/fight for their future. Love you guys and God bless you all!

[@carmell51]

So true, God bless you and your family.

[@MimsysGarden]

Been married 30yrs and sometimes we are totally NOT on the same page at all. But, there is an old saying that sums it up completely (for me)... “it ain’t worth havin’ , if it ain’t worth fightin’ for” ... love you guys!

[@sandradelvecchio6894]

I’ve been married 34 years and I just said to my husband why is? What made us stay when we had bumps? Neither of us had any idea.

[@teresaruthjones1717]

Beautiful!!! Thank you for sharing a part of your lives.

[@karenlemley8656]

God bless y'all in your marriage and your homestead! He will supply all your needs if you have faith.

[@tennesseegirl1215]

Amen

[@sandyquinn496]

My husband and I have been married for 36 yrs. We have road that roller coaster of life. But we are still together.

[@rondakudrna2054]

I've always thought you guys are so adorable together. I pray you are doing well now.

[@jessicalane955]

I married my husband who had 3 children and I have one of my own. When he told me he was done I was devastated. I understand that struggle. I love watching you all.

[@barbarafox1395]

Yes marriage is hard.. way back when, our grandparents believed in if something is broken they fixed it, they didn't get rid of it..

[@sharonabels2509]

so true. Many people need to remember that a marriage is a family or team effort. Everyone has to work toward a common goal. I unfortunately divorced 20+ years ago, because he gave up & I went to AlaNon. To "let go & let God" take your strife off your shoulders, is the greatest feeling. My kids are 22 & 24, both the most precious part of my life. ((Hugs))

[@kristinmedica7229]

@@sharonabels2509 hooey

[@MrYouarethecancer]

And they were all miserable.

[@Maranatha_Acres]

You two are so real, such an inspiration; it’s lovely!

[@CynBrown]

It is not ease that makes a marriage strong but the trials and struggles that strengthen you both. Best of luck to your future.

[@kariannecrysler7437]

Beautifuly put. I like to think it isn't wether you fight or not, but do you communicate? My hubby & I would have ended by now if we didn't learn how to be honest and communicate.

[@CynBrown]

@@kariannecrysler7437 Same and we are going on 22 years together

[@kariannecrysler7437]

@@CynBrown congratulations on 22! Tug and I are 11 year's in. I know I will probably think about divorce at least once or twice more, but never changes the image of where I want us to be in our 80's..... Together however, wherever and as long as possible. Lol

[@wasblind4835]

People walk away so easy now a days. It’s great to see a couple work on things. Cheers to you and many prayers for many more years together. May God bless you with another child and a wonderful future.

[@seedsandsanity5525]

Y’all don’t even know...this video just made me cry. I am so happy you two came through. We are presently where you were. You just became my Jess & Miah with this video.

[@tammyhanson7843]

Seeds And Sanity I’m sorry to hear you are struggling. I was with my ex for 30 years. He took me on vacation in 2009 and we arrived back home and he left the marriage, and left that very day, and taking our brand new 5th wheel trailer for him to live in. Hang in there, things could change like Jen and Zach. I would spend a lot of time in prayer if you pray. Good luck, I know how painful it is. How long have you been married? Children?🦋💜

[@mage8088]

What a beautiful video. Much love to your family!❤

[@AddieG0901]

Oooohhhh my goodness I just squealed. Yay. I will be praying for God to bless you with little Stivers #3

[@1870s]

Beautiful story! All the best as you grow your family ❤️

[@jadergator85]

Thank you for sharing your story. All of my last 34 yrs have been filled with trauma, anxiety and depression and it just keeps getting worse day by day literally. But hearing your story and everything you've been through and the obstacles you've overcome, have really given me hope that there will be better days eventually.

[@veronicamaldonado-price7860]

Each new day is a chance for a better day. ❤️ 🙏 ❤️

[@nieserz7]

Whereas I'm not a parent, nor a religious person, I'm in love with your positivity! Your love feels infectious and full of joy❤️❤️

[@tammymckenna1899]

Thank you for sharing and encouraging. Blessing to a beautiful family. Go Stive Tribe!!!

[@VLynnie]

You are very sweet to share your story. I am praying for you and your family. I've been enjoying roots and refuge videos as well. I love Jessica's devotionals. Small world huh? Maybe that's why your channel showed up in my feed. I'm glad it did.

[@abundantlyblessedhomestead9951]

God changed your heart! That's what happened! Happened to me too! I was SO done having kids, until God allowed me to see into my husband's heart. I spent a few months in prayer and God changed my heart. I am his only wife for my life and if I can bless him with one more, that's what I'm called to do. Fast forward... we now have 5 kids and the Lord does provide

[@MsLippy]

Transparency, Thank You For Being You, Being Honest, and Being Real. Blessings My Friends, and Blessings To A Beautiful New Chapter To Your Journey.

[@landofplentyfarmstead4813]

Brother, before I even watch this, I'm gonna pray for you all. I've been hacking it out for 3 1/2 years in a trailer building my farm and house, IT'S BEEN HARD! It's made a Lotta stress for us but only by the power of God has kept us together. Really close to leaving a few times , it's too hard to go. We've been trying to get out of the rat race because it almost killed us once. We've sort of brought old into the new. But no more it's a new day yall. Love and respect.

[@YogiHollowFarm]

Inspirational and we love you all

[@janinejohnson1898]

Wow! What an awesome story. Thank you for sharing and for being authentic. The best is yet to come! ☮️♥️

[@danafredrickson42]

i am where you were....would appreciate prayers. you are good people❤️

[@StringfieldRidgeFarm]

I’m crying! I knew some of this because I have watched you from day one! Me and Lee went through a similar thing. For other reasons but almost divorced about 3 years ago and, a lot of prayer later, we are happier than ever! Thanks for sharing your beautiful story!

[@TwoFamilyHomestead]

Stringfield Ridge Farm ❤️💕🌺

[@LegacyHomeandGarden]

This is exactly why I watch your channel and have said from the beginning. Ya'll are Fun and Honest; Sharing the good and the bad, the ups and the downs the successes and the failures. Everything happens for a reason. I am so very happy for you and your family!. Blessings to my friends!

[@bethydurbin6796]

Hugs...many almost moments quietly hid and then they pass. 41 yrs married and love each other more each day! Hugs

[@stellalush4547]

Whenever l watch your vids, l always have a big smile on my face. Please stay together, you're both awesome.

[@shelbymartin2598]

You all are such a blessing. Wish you the best. Enjoy your smiles and videos..God Bless!!! From Danville Va.

[@northstarprepsteader]

Zach, it's the grace of God that opened your heart to be open to life. Many blessings upon both of you! Thank you for sharing your hearts with us and you will continue to be in my prayers.

[@lisalapoint7022]

I second that! So glad you are open to life! You will be blessed beyond your imagining with this decision. God Bless you and love to you.

[@MrsWGW3]

Beautiful couple! I just love you two!! Prayers for a precious little Stivers bundle of joy in your arms soon!! ♥️♥️♥️

[@angieo.2389]

Family is so important,blessing on you both as you grow your family.

[@idahohoosier8989]

So glad you made it! Peace and blessings

[@leighkershaw6197]

Beautiful video and a beautiful story. Thank you for being so open and sharing. Bless you all

[@NanaMom104A]

Congratulations!!!! this is great news, you two make beautiful babies! I cannot wait for it to be a reality.

[@maryjanew20]

You’ve brought me to tears. God Bless you! I pray you won’t have to wait too long. 💕

[@theresacourter2936]

Happy for you both. God has a plan and in his time he will give you a gift.

[@jonabriggs8829]

This is the second time watching this Video, when I start to feeling down, I watch this Video and Jess's Devotional Video and it really help's me, ty so much

[@beepassionate]

Thank you, beautiful souls. What a gift you have given so many and how brave of you to be honest. May the golden light of love increase in your lives. Blessings to you

[@wendyc.5769]

I’m so stinkin HAPPY for your family!!!! The Lord is good and His mercy endureth forever 😇

[@thatwhimseyhomestead]

You guys!!! I wish I could talk to you the way you were able to talk to Jess. That was a raw and beautiful video.

[@verreedoiron183]

I was sobbing like a baby. I am so happy for you guys. I have been following you from the beginning. I pray that the perfect property is presented to you so that you can continue to grow your homestead and family. Thank you for being you and real for all of us. God bless

[@neilmunro6683]

Real people, real life.. Thank you for being real.. I am glad all is in a better place.. Kindness our way Neil { lochness Scottish Highlands }

[@lisahensley1452]

I totally understand your story. I am so happy you two are going to try for another baby! I was convinced to get my tubes tied years ago after having my three boys. I went through divorce and was a single mom for 16 years. I am currently in a long term relationship and would love to have a baby or 2 with him. But I can’t and now cannot afford to adopt or any other option. I am so very happy that you all did not give up on your relationship. Praying for you all to continue to have your wonderful relationship! We are looking for land ourselves and start a compound too. You all rock and absolutely love your video!

[@lilcowgirlsluvr]

God brought yall together for a reason. Many blessings for you an your family.

[@ruthbarrett8907]

Thanks for sharing your story! I cried through most of it. The best part is you giving praise to God for getting you back on track with your marriage, Homestead and family. May the Lord bless and keep you! ❤️

[@mmmariam100]

New subscriber from New Jersey from a single mom with my 2 daughters after struggling with my past relation I send blessings to you guys. God is good.

[@angelicamichelle1646]

If only people were truly honest about the bad times in a marriage maybe when the bad times come for the rest they would not be delusioned and have others to look to knowing that there are answers and that maybe save some more marriages thank you for being honest about the hormonal lash outs and thank you to the husband for stating he doesn't understand thank you

[@desertgal3802]

I agree. My STBE husband and I were peppers. First major issue in our marriage and he gave up on it like a little bitch instead of fighting for our relationship. This was the guy who was supposed to have my back and who would protect me at any cost. I will never trust any man like that again

[@claudineschultz8935]

My dream of happiness was to live in the middle of acres of land with a dirt road to the homestead so when you see dirt rising, I could say " look , Pa , company's coming." God bless !

[@debbielynn5306]

Thank you for sharing! Praying God blesses you beyond need! 🙏💕 My husband and I went through a time like this…we’re actually in divorce court at the 10 year mark. 😔 Without taking up a lot f space with details, the bottom line is that we realized that praying for each other and caring for each other, BEFORE our own self, was what saved our marriage. We are heading into our 40th anniversary now and going strong, and still putting each other first. I stumbled across you while looking for recipes on canning up my leftover Easter ham and so glad I did! Love your channel! Thank you!

[@alysonmajtan3599]

Things come to us in the right moment. Thank you for being brave enough to share not just the happy moments but your struggles as well. Now you can move forward both on the same page. You have such a beautiful family! Tough times let us see what and who is really important to us. May God bless you with another beautiful healthy child! So excited to continue to follow your journey!

[@Crackedeggfarms]

This is dope! Ups and downs are families and homesteading!!

[@hernandezfamilyfarm]

I'm in tears... that was a ride you just took me through😭😂 and I'm blowing over some baby dust I just found out yesterday that I am pregnant with our 4th!!! ❤❤❤ sending you love and prayers!😘😍

[@karenheider4138]

Roots and Refuge is my favorite homesteading channel. I am always waiting for the next video. Thank you for sharing.

[@regenerated4life]

It takes a vast amount of courage to publicly share your private life and I appreciate you both for doing so. It helped me to understand the pain that is sometimes visible in your eyes. That your desire is to smile and fight through it to a better tomorrow is an encouragement. My husband and I have been married for 22 years and we've been through some rough times, but we've come to a point where we having argued about everything and there isn't anything left but being happily stuck together. Yahweh bless you both!

[@jane7627]

So Happy for you ! No rush, God will bless you with every abundance! Sending Love and light❤🥰🖖

[@jerseygalk1554]

May your family and blessings continue to grow along with your wonderful smiles ♥️

[@terpenetoby]

Yes, the world could use more Stivers. Thanks for being you. Made me realize what I have.

[@CourtLee333]

I seriously just LOVE y’all! I’m so glad I found this channel

[@staciyawn7344]

Congratulations!! Children are such a blessing and big familys bring so much more love!!

[@annwithaplan9766]

Aww, I'm sorry you went through that, but also glad that you made it through for the better! You didn't owe that to anyone, but such a nice thing to do for your viewers in telling of your struggles. This WILL have an impact on others for sure! Thank you for sharing that! Love you guys.

[@mindystiltner4483]

Love your smiles, and where God has brought you! You got this💕

[@judydrouhard2651]

Know this may have been hard for you all to “tell all”. Just want you to know that we will be praying for you guys. Best of luck. Love watching you and your family.

[@sheliabenson5496]

God Bless you all .Thank you for sharing your life. You are beautiful people.

[@hbug13_62]

I love how honest you two are. I know that others will watch this and be encouraged to know they aren't the only ones who struggle. I wrote a pretty personal comment a week or so ago about being set free from a destructive marriage and finding the right person. But both of us had the same baggage from our previous marriages. We had the same coping skill of withdrawing and getting really quiet. So when things weren't going well we would just give each other space and be really quiet. So then there would be nothing but space and silence. We had a really bad time last summer and for some reason when we worked that out things were sealed like they never had been and we haven't had anything major since. It's also encouraging to know I'm not the only one "failing" (or so it seemed) at homesteading. There have been a few bumps along the way and I've thought "maybe I'm not cut out for this." But it's so obvious this opportunity was a gift from God. He wouldn't give me a dream I'd had for forty years and then snatch it away. In Matthew 7 Jesus talks about what kind of Father we have. So with a little more perseverance and patience things smoothed out. Your story puts those faltering steps in perspective too. They really weren't huge disasters. I tend to be an Eeyore but I'm married to a Tigger so I guess we balance each other out. Anyway, you both are a blessing and example to a lot of people.

[@selenepickins4874]

I just found y'all today (11/7/2020). The algorithm most likely sent me to you b/c I watched a whole clutch of Roots and Refuge Farm videos. I saw the baby pig video! So stinking sweet! Anyhow, so I'm a southerner myself, from Alabama, & I live on my little 25-acre farm in the middle of nowhere. It. Is. Magical! So peaceful & after this last week I sure am glad to have it. I turned 60 this year, have been an RN for 40 of it. I want to tell y'all how courageous & selfless & loving I think your posting this video was & is even a year down the road. To freely speak about such intimate troubles in the hope that someone who might be similarly suffering could find it & either be comforted or realize they are not alone is completely selfless. I am glad you guys figured things out b/c it would've been a far less beautiful world without your smiles in it. Blessings

[@wendyweddell2782]

Thank y'all so much for speaking directly to my heart. I was feeling about ready to completely give up

[@OutdoorswithVance]

yall look so happy together. I m glad it all worked out

[@tracycollins5272]

Love you two. I understand unfulfilled desire to have children. I never was able to. Husband didn’t want them. God’s hand has kept me. That said, I’m praying for pregnancy toot sweet!!!

[@212acres3]

Great testimony! Thanks for sharing! Y’all have a blessed week!!!

[@stacey68]

You are a great inspiration! I love your infectious smiles, and the love you have for each other! your videos are awesome, ,I love watching you guys do things together as a team!! I'm excited for you guys on deciding to have another baby.. Babies are miracles in itself, creating life out of love is amazing!

[@resolutionarybeing1885]

YERP! Tis so true.

[@EmbracethechaosPortugal]

Looks like you both got back on the same page, well done, we all love Jess!

[@doccreed7182]

Thank you for sharing your incredible story. I was touched by it and I too was inspired by one of Jess's devotionals (it was about not allowing Satan to steal one's joy and peace), it truly wakened something in me. God bless you guys as you work on expanding your family...I believe God is about to triple your subscribers. I just have that feeling. I have only been subbed for about five months but you already feel like old friends...you guys just beam for the Lord. It's awesome.

[@cherylcallahan5402]

TYVM 💕Stivers wonderful story of staying together brought tears of joy for your family.

[@IdiosyncH]

As a recently married woman, and expecting our first baby, I really appreciate this video. We all know troubles come in marriage, but we hear about the negative outcomes more than the positive ones. Thanks for being a positive influence for couples

[@ranns160]

Thank y’all for being open. You help so many people with your sincerity. Yay for friends!!!

[@mneraasen224]

You all had me crying 😭Wishing you all the best on this journey called life💗💗💗💗💗

[@mayravelez517]

Great News, God Bless!

[@backusfarmstead4610]

This is an amazing video and it has helped me so much you have no idea! I’m sending this to my husband immediately. THANK YOU.

[@cmac6124]

I remember that video from Jess. I usually do not comment on you tube , but I did on that video. That was such an inspiring message. Glad to hear that I was not the only one that loved that message from Jess.

[@kcmgfarm2389]

Jess's devotional videos are incredible, I agree. So happy to see the two of you come through to the other side of the hard ship. Blessings 🙏

[@deborahfennell4787]

My first day watching. You both look so happy, she just look so joyful. Thank you for making her smile and sharing your love

[@cathleencaratan3373]

What a beautiful story! Thank you for sharing.

[@edeanmendonsa4311]

I absolutely enjoy watching you both and truly love your family! Praying for your dreams to come true! Edean

[@EccentricNature]

You guys are fantastic! Thanks so much for sharing this awesome story. You both are a positive powerhouse that is absolutely contagious. Glad that things have worked out well for you at this point. This is my favorite video of yours so far! :)

[@maureenthefirst1]

My sister, self-care is warfare. It is very important to take good care of yourself in all ways. Emotional, spiritual, physical, financial. God bless you and your marriage.

[@suehinson1629]

I got to share finally, this is my choice pick, for the best "feel good vlog" that I return to and have watched over and over. And to be honest, in 2020 I'll probably continue to return. It feels my heart every time. And I'm so thankful, that your path is heading in such a beautiful direction and I'm along for the ride! I love y'all, God bless.

[@bevtrue6937]

Congratulations on getting happiness into your life, whether it works the way you want it to or not.

[@ketocarnivory4651]

Awwwww! I love y’all!! You brought me to tears! That’s something my husband and I have had to work through. He doesn’t want any more children. And I do. So, I can relate! So happy to hear your news of new beginnings! ❤️

[@miasara1635]

Sweet😊you are both radiating with love and joy

[@vickibatstone9283]

Congrats you two, it will be fun trying...Thank you so much for being so truthful about a bad time you all went through... just love you and your family...marriage is hard, but worth the work.. my husband and I have been married for 45 years...wishing the two of you strength and love...God is good

[@staceyb947]

tears, goosebumps and PRAISE! wonderful truth and story and thank you for sharing.

[@Faithfulfields]

Very inspirational video Hope all goes well you guys inspire me everyday never lose those beautiful smiles

[@lindamarquis6117]

I have been married 49 years and I think marriage is the most wonderful and the most difficult thing two people can do. I think most marriages go thru very difficult times, but With God All THings Are Possible. We went thru a seperation years ago . We both prayed and fasted and we got back together and " pressed restart " ( forgave each other and restarted our relationship. No one said "you were wrong and I was right"). I also was going thru perimenopause at around 40 years old. I was very quickly angry and was Not myself. Someone suggested seeing a GYN Dr. I was put on hormone pills and became a much calmer nicer person. I am thankful we have stayed together, as are our 4 children and 8 grandchildren . Faith in Jesus has helped us so much with our life's journey. Thanks for sharing your journey in a real life way. I hope that many people are encouraged by your testimony. God Bless.

[@HomesteadDreaming]

Those first few years after having a child are tough. Every marriage is tested during those times. I'm so glad you were able to work through things. I understand how you feel about the 3rd child thing. I wanted a 3rd way before my husband wanted a 3rd. It's so difficult when your wants and needs as a couple don't match anymore. My husband and I have also struggled through having wants and needs that don't match. Thankfully we were able to work through things and are in a great place now. Thank you for sharing your story.

[@alisharhc]

So true! Those first few years and a trial!

[@heatherreis7839]

I can't tell you how much me and my husbands marriage has been tested since our 3rd little boy was born. Between me being in the hospital a few times, finance problems, kids being sick, our dog needing surgery. Its like a hit to the face waking up in the mornings with something new. Its a horrible thing but when you have a man (or women) standing strong by your side with you it makes those hits less painful.

[@thegardenongemstone615]

ThatEverydayKira so true! My husband wants a third child but I’m not sure if that’s what I want. I just spent the last 4 months taking care of a 3 year old and 2 year old by myself with no help because he was activated and deployed. Not sure if I want to this again with three kids in the mix. Only time will tell.

[@grandmasewhappyhomestead187]

I wanted a fourth child but never did I expect I would have a fourth child at the age of 39. I wasn't ready but God is amazing and my fourth child my daughter after three boys is the hugest blessing. Each child is such a blessing from the Lord. I had hoped that one time to have 10 children but I'm thankful for the four I know I get to be a grandma to five so far