Why we moved off grid and how things went - Q & A | Sunday Homestead Chat | Off Grid Australia 214

[@kathyhutto4210]

I just finished watching your video and I’m so happy to find you. I love your mantra “progress not perfection “. Wonderful way to live. Keep doing what you’re doing.

[@leeoregan9766]

Hello you! I've sat here and half grinned through most of this. Not because i find adversity and challenges, struggles and tribulations amusing, but rather your humble honesty in explaining and sharing the hows of why you are where you are, doing what you do. i keep seeing that random tomato seed that pops up in the most random place with no care, no fertiliser, compost or regular watering... thrive. Thrive and outgrow every other intentionally planted one. The feral tomato plant, the volunteer plant. Reminds me so much of your journey. An accidental happenstance. I suspect most of your viewers and regular subscribers are as tired as i am of the polished glossy insta-fluencer in their perfect world growing their perfect leeks all perfectly lined up in their perfect insta-fluencer gardens.... 'scuse me while my eyes roll back in my head 😂 Life, real life, is gritty and messy and a bit hard-scrabbly and untidy, especially when there's not 16 sponsors leaping to finance and 'manage' the influencer-content and the click bait content. Real... raw and real... and the aussie bush is harsh and ever changing, extremes from the getgo that are always changing. I'm grinning here, Nyssa... your most connecting one yet... total engagement. perfectly imperfect 😉

[@OurSmallFootprint]

Thank you Lee! Definitely that random tomato plant lol.

[@janicedelp2775]

Nyssa, truly enjoyed this video, as always. I am always amazed at how talented you are, words actually fail to describe how wonderful you handle everything you do. You inspire me to work harder here on our tiny farm and get multiple things done with my time, etc. I think if Nyssa can do it with all she has going then maybe I can accomplish more. My husband will soon be 82 and I am 77. Thank the good lord, we are still able to get out and do farm work, care for our animals, house, garden, yard. I sew, do crafts, he likes to do wood crafts and mend anything that needs mended, etc. We go fishing occasionally for the fun of it and extra food. We have between us six kids, multiple grandchildren and great grandchildren. They are self sufficient and visit on big holidays which is wonderful and since they help with bringing food and helping with the work it makes it less stressful. We feel very blessed and have especially taken being self sufficient very seriously in the last few years out of necessity. I mean all our kids feel the same since the world situation is harder. So it is especially nice to meet someone like you and your husband. I appreciate you so much. It is beyond me that anyone could say hurtful things. I think they are jealous. We were raised to be resourceful, help others, etc. Anyway, I will quit chewing your ear for a little while. Until next visit, keep on being your wonderful self. Janice from Arkansas USA

[@alisonshanahan9529]

Nyssa, I see your move off grid as a blessing. You and Daryl are strong and have grown enormously, mental toughness comes from adversity and taking a forward step daily. You're both displaying positive traits to your beautiful children. Having them learning at home and working together towards building a sustainable lifestyle is a fantastic education. They're not spoilt, they don't want a lot of rubbish, they play in the dirt and have animals to tend, all beneficial attributes. You provide excellent food, they learn that food takes time and effort, both in preparation and growing. Harvest failures are normal, you've had stocks to hold you over the hopefully worst of the current season. All this is educational and a chance to discuss preparation and what they'd do in the future. I dislike the patreon format, too high a cost, the coffee way is better.

[@naturewoman1274]

Couldn't of said it better... spot on

[@OurSmallFootprint]

Yes, I was super surprised at the patreon costs considering everyone seems to have one! I understand its only a percentage, so you don't 'pay for it' but still, it seemed awfully high! Thank you Alison, We do try, and be the best role models we can, we have our failings like anyone else, but we try, and at times it feels like the kids don't care or learn, but I know it is a long term thing, and that they are learning to be people too!

[@paulaelves5160]

spot on xxx

[@tawanajackson5545]

The 22nd of March is a very special day for me. I will be clean from crack cocaine 23 year's 🌞🌞

[@teresaryan4956]

Congratulations keep up the good work.

[@OurSmallFootprint]

Woohoo! Congratulations, well done! :D

[@tawanajackson5545]

@@teresaryan4956 Thank You so much ♥️

[@tawanajackson5545]

@@OurSmallFootprint Thank You So Much ♥️♥️

[@ssiiaaannn]

Congratulations! You are amazing ❤️❤️

[@chillid3146]

Sarah and Solo our tribe of Many...love that channel and your guys remind me so much of them

[@tawanajackson5545]

That's what makes you a great Creator. You're showing real life scenarios and people learn from you ♥️♥️🌞🌞

[@OurSmallFootprint]

I dunno if I'm the best person to learn from ;) :)

[@tawanajackson5545]

@@OurSmallFootprint I disagree 🤩🤩

[@hoosierladyus48]

I love Sarah and Solo and have been watching them for years. Her Dad has a channel now and it's called, "Papas' Kitchen." He is hilarious! That's why I like your channel, because you cook and shop a lot like Sarah. Nyssa, you would make a great podcaster. I could listen to you talk all day.

[@2772ruby]

Hi Nyssa, I am in the middle of binge watching all of your videos. I think you are awesome, so knowledgeable about food prep and cooking. Your video "4 years in pictures" was so beautiful, it really tugged on my heart and made me cry". This video also made me cry. I hope your family prospers greatly, with all the work you all do. Thank you for your videos, they are a great inspiration. 💙

[@OurSmallFootprint]

Hi Ang, thank you so much :). It has definitely been an adventure and a half but I'm so glad we are where we are now :)

[@bylindalawrence5943]

Nyssa, don't stretch yourself so thin that you are constantly working. We are here because we like you, your family, and how you have chosen to live. Buying you a coffee seems to be the best way since you will benefit from it the most without worrying about what else you need to do to make it special. Please take some time for yourself as well. God Bless

[@OurSmallFootprint]

Thank you Bylinda, I'm not very good at being bored, so I tend to push regardless lol :D

[@LynHannan]

A little over a year ago, I deliberately searched for Aussie You-tubers quite intensely for about a week (I have a lot of subscriptions from everywhere else, but mainly from northern America, and I wanted to watch some home grown creativity). Found a few which I still watch! Then a couple of weeks later, KZbin started recommending them! That's how I came across your channel! I love your talent for cooking and the way you handle using the BBQ as an oven (I'm not an adventurous cook - I've never cooked on a flame, only electric, so I see you as an absolute wizard!!). I love anything practical and creative. My forte was sewing, still is but arthritis in my hands has curbed it a lot and I suppose I'm still grieving for it, so I make up for it by watching others' creativity. I watch one pouring paint, another creates oven baked clay jewelry and trinkets, someone else makes items from resin, there's two who sew, a wood-turner, a couple of gardeners, a makeup artist (came in handy for my youngest girl's deb last year as I don't wear much makeup myself!) - they all create magic! And it's lovely magic... yet there is something missing. You go above and beyond, you're not simply creating something and showing it off, or trying to create content for content's sake; this is the reality TV that I like. We are privileged to see the real person in the real world with some cameos of her family; who is a lovingly patient teacher that explains all the details and the science of her own magic in such a chatty way - the squirrels are just as informative, don't scare them away! Thank you for sharing the human side of your life, I can relate to you on several levels, squirrels included!!

[@OurSmallFootprint]

I love to mindlessly watch other peoples skills! It is supporting them, it is comforting and it shows how everyone has something they're good at that not necessarily everyone else is!! Thank you Lyn! :D

[@vickijoy3959]

I love Our tribe of many. I see you as an aussie version of them. What you do is amazing and I feel privileged that you continue to share

[@vickijoy3959]

The tangants are the best bit 😅😍 mum of 6 myself so I'm always amazed you can video at all

[@OurSmallFootprint]

Thank you Vicki :)

[@Jayne287]

I have seen 9 of your videos, I only found you today (4 of July 2024) and I think you and your family are fantastic. Am going back to the very beginning . 🥰🇬🇧

[@viccarlsson7485]

Me too 👍🏻🇸🇪

[@allisonmilligan9834]

I’ve recently discovered your channel and am really enjoying it. I’ve followed Our Tribe of Many, Hollar Homestead, Three Rivers Homestead and Acre Homestead for ages. It’s refreshing to see an Aussie family. I’m a kiwi now living in the UK. You’re doing an awesome job x

[@OurSmallFootprint]

Thank you Allison, I think most of us watch very similar channels lol, which is why sometimes when I get asked to do a video on certain things I hesitate because I know I've seen it done by someone else! :D. But everyones different methods are good to learn too! :D

[@BouncySlim1]

Hi Allison, my list of homesteaders was similar to yours. I stopped watching one of the channels you listed (blur faced nameless offspring) and searched for another channel to watch and this channel came up in my feed. I've been binge watching ever since 😃

[@bsalii]

​@EyeSea what makes you mad about blurring the face n not naming her baby? Or are you more mad about the reaction n comments of her followers? She straight up let her followers know her baby will not be in her blog....never did she lie or falsify herself

[@BouncySlim1]

@@bsalii whilest I understand her desire for privacy, I personally felt it weird to hear her refer to her child as she does...... so I choose not to watch. 🤷🏾‍♀️. My Personal choice, just like her choice to remain private.

[@bsalii]

@@BouncySlim1 fair

[@roreyb7]

I watch you because of your authenticity listening to you is pretty much like neighbors talking over the fence and you simply telling me what's going on in you life.I must say I admire you and your husbands resilience going through all that you did and making it work. I'm sure that the challenges were.epic and I wish you success going forward. Take care and God Bless

[@OurSmallFootprint]

Thank you Rorey, as I look back at it now, I'm proud of us for getting through and there'll be more to get through, but at the time, it was just the season of life, it was small kids, a brand new property and figuring out where our future was going to lie!

[@lynneanthony168]

Wow, Nyssa, what an inspiration you and Darryl are. Gathering lemons and squeezing every drop to make lemonade. I think you're an inspiration and a great role model. As long as you're putting out videos, I'll be here watching and drooling. 😊

[@OurSmallFootprint]

hehe, thank you Lynne! Food is definitely something that features heavily in my life and I'm so glad that people want to see it!

[@kimsmith3265]

So glad you continued to do KZbin. I hope next years garden goes well, to bring you a lot of produce but also so I can learn more from you. My husband always giggles when you mention your squirrel moments, we love them (yes loved this video) Thank you so much for sharing your and Darrel’s story. It’s very powerful and very relatable. We have had our world turn upside down too & I admire you for your strength. Hi Nyssa’s mum - you have a wonderful daughter xx

[@laurakaszuba6785]

I agree! She is amazing, and you did an awesome job of raising her. She has become a pillar of strength, with Darrell right beside her. God's blessings for you and your family!

[@OurSmallFootprint]

I hate that the garden didn't do well this year, it was a real frustration, the fact that I wanted to share it and then felt like such a failure because it was my first year really sharing and it was a failure lol, but we'll get there! perseverance and progress etc etc! :D. Thank you Kim! :D

[@theresaduggan426]

My parents lived off grid. My hubby and I are semi off. One thing that mum did was keep a manual diary of pretty much everything . That way they tracked the seasons and what happened. So she noted the weather, rainfall, which vegetables did well that year, how the chickens laid, the calves being born. Etc etc. It all started in earnest when Dad had an accident at work and couldn’t work anymore. My wage as an 18 yo was the only income stream so she had to do ‘something’. I bought a dairy cow for Dad so he had to milk her twice a day. This dragged him out of his depression. I found a copy of The Weekly Farmers Handbook 1956 edition. It had instructions on how to do pretty much everything manually on a farm. Mum learned to churn butter! Dad learned to milk, how to raise piglets, everything! Their farm is long gone, as they are, but my husband and I are trying to keep it up. I have MS and quite restricted with it but I try to do what I can manually. I bought hubby a 1970 edition of The Weekly Times Handbook and he uses it all of the time! I’m certainly not in your league Nyssa but I’m loving your channel. It’s inspiring me to bigger and better things. Btw, I’m having a bumper year with zucchini. Tomatoes? I’ve picked ONE!

[@OurSmallFootprint]

I have spreadsheets galore! hehe, I think the hardest part is that you you need a a few years of data to really make any actual observations, the weather patterns are a bit one, I've had a weather station for 4 years, so I have daily temps and rain fall etc for all that time that I collate, and its fantastic, but the more I get the better it is, and the more accurate!

[@theresaduggan426]

@@OurSmallFootprint this be true. I do suggest you try and get your hands on one of the weekly times year books. It is perculiur to this area but it shows how to do farm stuff from scratch. Without power and expensive equipment.

[@rickyandtheothers5835]

I find buying you a coffee is super easy for me…love your channel and content. You are such a clever articulate lady 😊

[@OurSmallFootprint]

There is definitely an aspect of being able to just buy a coffee and not be on a monthly sub etc that people like, and that's why I set it up when someone asked :D Thank you Ricky :D

[@loudybelle]

As they say what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger!, You all have achieved so much and should be proud of yourselves ❤❤

[@OurSmallFootprint]

Thank you Louise :D

[@makingendsmeet]

Tangent away! We all love listening to you Nyssa, you're so down to earth and relatable. Not to mention you're a fellow Aussie, talented cook and teacher too! Being real and being you is what makes you interesting. Your voice holds truth. And your videos are like hanging out with a mate, such a comfort to watch. I think you have found your calling with your skill set like you said. As they say, "Do what you love and the money will take care of itself"! Thank you for sharing your family's inspiring journey with us all. Best wishes for all your yurt dreams to come true❤

[@OurSmallFootprint]

Thank you! One day :D hehe

[@bonniedill5500]

I recently found your channel and I love it! I have been following my tribe of many for years! ❤

[@OurSmallFootprint]

Welcome, and thank you! :D

[@leonardfamily7005]

NEW SUBSCRIBER with some feedback: I found your channel yesterday whilst searching for the answer to 'can you pressure can using fowlers jars?' Up came your baked bean video. After that I subscribed, watched a second video, then onto this one. As a new subscriber I went actively looking for a video like this to shed light on the bigger picture of your story. So you just never know what may capture new audience!

[@OurSmallFootprint]

Thank you for that feedback! :D. It is much appreciated :D

[@angelaelphinstone5273]

Wow Nyssa, your family's journey so hits home for us! I found myself in tears at times listening to your story! You really are an inspiration and an amazingly strong woman. Daryl and the kids are amazing too.

[@OurSmallFootprint]

Thank you Angie!

[@janeallan9491]

You have had quite the journey to get to where you are. You and Darryl are an amazing couple who take each hurdle in your stride.

[@OurSmallFootprint]

Thank you Jane, there has been moments, but I'm glad we're where we are at the moment! :D

[@DonnaYob]

Hi Nyssa have followed you now for nearly 12 months and have just come across this video, what an incredible wife, mum, daughter and human being plus many more you are. I love your raw honesty and I super love your SQUIRELLING, as you have said progress not perfection. Keep going and never give up. Blessings to each and everyone of you.

[@dederutberg8920]

Just when I think I could not love you and your channel anymore than I do, you put out this beautiful and honest video. You are just amazing as a mother, wife and human being, you make the world a better place.❤

[@OurSmallFootprint]

Thank you Dede! :D

[@oliviafox3605]

My admiration for you grows with each "chat"; you are strong, intelligent and so gracious. PLUS...a great speaker!

[@OurSmallFootprint]

Thank you Olivia :D

[@fonkapollo]

I hate that people do that kinda stuff. Who cares what you weigh or what you look like? That’s ridiculous. The people that leave those kinda comments probably have a life they hate and deep-seated issues; that’s their problem. You seem like a lovely person and I enjoy your videos. Thanks for putting the work in to bring us your content. 🇺🇸

[@OurSmallFootprint]

Thank you :). I do try to let it all run off, and not take much notice, it is hard sometimes, when I get an influx of it. But I know who I am and what I'm doing and even though I'm pretty transparent, I still don't share every second of my life on here :D

[@jenniferr2057]

I love that you made squirrel a verb! Lol. I'm stealing it!

[@OurSmallFootprint]

Hehe, I think we got it from the cartoon Up! with the dog who always gets distracted by the squirrel :D

[@jenniferr2057]

@@OurSmallFootprint We always say "hey look! A squirrel!". It is the verbification that made me laugh!

[@OurSmallFootprint]

@@jenniferr2057 Hehe, Its such a fun word to say too! :D

[@gloriadavidson8599]

Love your "" rambling "" because it shows just how real and what an awesome , strong and capable person you are !!! An inspiration to many on how to cope with ""life "" ❤️❤️❤️❤️👍👍👍👍👏👏👏👏 Love from the UK x

[@OurSmallFootprint]

Thank you Gloria! :D

[@bettymiller2944]

I found you Chanel a couple months ago, I've enjoyed watching your videos, and when it's been a couple of days between your videos I go back and watch an older video, like I'm doing now 8/15/23. Thank you for sharing

[@OurSmallFootprint]

Thank you Betty! Sometimes I go to redo something I've done before and wonder if I should, but then I remember that new people join all the time and not all of them go back and watch older stuff! :D

[@LittleGardenBigDreams]

So much of your story parallels ours. Tim’s health declined and he handed back his franchise too. We had a year and a half of freezing cold showers, and making do. I’ve gone many times to tell our story in depth, but it’s too raw to go there at the moment. Keep doing what you’re doing Nyssa, you’ll get there lovely xx Cathi xx 😘

[@OurSmallFootprint]

Almost five years out here now, and it finally feels like its mostly in the past, we still have our days, but generally speaking, I feel like we're on an even keel, that we're making slow progress, we still have our setbacks, especially with things like the car etc *sigh*, and the lack of garden, but I do feel like mostly, were moving forward now. It will get there! Thank you Cathi!

[@jennifersisson-pg3in]

Thanks for the share! I live very similar with my hubby disabled and half the kids :) I write for different publishers on Upworks, have for many years now. I keep my overhead very low, so that I don't have to come up with too much. It was that, or kill myself with a chronic disease or two working multiple jobs. I am so glad that your channel is doing so well. There is a reason, you're genuine, your lifestyle is unique and interesting, and you have a great personality. It comes out in everything that you do. Found you through a haul but stayed for so much more!

[@OurSmallFootprint]

Keeping the overheads low is key, then you have time to earn the little bit of money you need but also have a life! and do things you want to do!

[@shogan0able]

What a story. So much ingenuity and resilience during tough times.

[@OurSmallFootprint]

Thankyou! :D

[@hykergirl2874]

I love this channel! ❤❤❤ I appreciate your style. It feels like you just popped over for a coffee...tangents and all. It's all good. Sometimes in life when we are planning to jump...we get a little...or in some cases, a big push. I believe we land where we need to be. All of your ups and downs are teaching your children every day and they will remember all of your hard work. These are more valuable lessons than they could ever learn in a classroom. I think "buy me a coffee" sounds like a better option. No need to line other peoples pockets paying high fees.

[@OurSmallFootprint]

That is definitely how it feels to me too, talking to the camera, I'm talking to you guys, it was hard at first because I didn't know my 'audience' but now I know that I'll have these conversations post the video! I definitely think that the leap that we had to take was worthwhile, it was hard and we had a lot of repercussions of it all that went on for many years, but I finally feel like where somewhere where we can have our ups and downs and still recover... :D

[@cinapoowee7582]

This was one of the best videos you've ever done. OUTSTANDING!!! Yes, I watched the entire video in one sitting and you kept my interest the entire time. As for those people who focus on weight I think they are just so unhappy themselves. Hell, with what they think. You may not have money but you can see how much you love your family in every video. Daryl is really lucky to have married you and I summize that you feel the same. You have a wonderful life, beautiful children, great attitude, etc. I, for one, am very proud of you and your family. Ramble, ramble, ramble on. Loved it. You amaze me with every video. Hello to your mom cuz we know she's watching....LOL.

[@OurSmallFootprint]

Hehe, she's going to get to these comments (prob in a couple of weeks, because she's always behind lol) and sit there and go, huh! lol :D

[@lindafanning1430]

I continue to be in awe of your diversity of knowledge. Ability to make much from scraps. Manage to teach your children not only required educational subjects but real life ups and downs. I can only imagine that your household can really rock and roll with your energetic, bright children, a mix of shy and upfront. How you juggle your jobs and keep the “plates” in the air is absolutely brilliant. Blessings to you and your family.

[@OurSmallFootprint]

Thank you Linda, I must admit, sometimes, it definitely doesn't feel like those plates are up there well! :D

[@debimorsette1685]

To awesome for words! Thanks so much for sharing your lovely family and adventuresome life! Debi in Vicksburg, MS, USA 🥰🥰

[@krackerjaxx5575]

You have really thought this out and articulated it very well. Thank you for the work and time you put into your videos!

[@OurSmallFootprint]

I probably way over think things and ramble because of it :)

[@constances.1434]

Like I tell my 11 year old. "Doesn't matter what garbage people say. You know you and you are amazing!!" Blessing from the Pacific NW of America

[@OurSmallFootprint]

Hehe, and a perfect thing to tell them! Thank you :D

[@RomaniKiwi]

Hi Nyssa! I'm a new subscriber, so I'm catching up with your channel... Hearing your story about how you started off, brought back my own memories from years past... We migrated from Europe with 4 little kids... No jobs, no house, no car, no money, no family here, and having to learn to speak another language.... We didn't know anyone and had a difficult start living in a garage in winter time. We caught every bug around those first few years, because our daily life was so stressful... But knowing what I know now, I'd do it all again! My first veggie gardens were a mixed bag too. It took a few years to understand the area where I'd moved to, and to properly enrich the soil... I'm telling you this, because listening to your story, it struck me how much I admired your guts and determination to do this! And also how I never thought of myself in those terms, and you probably don't either! I applaud you guys for pulling this off! ❤ Maya

[@OurSmallFootprint]

Welcome Maya, and thank you! It is definitely something that is hard to reflect on, looking back I know we've come a long way and we're doing well, but at the same time, it just feels like we're always doing something badly!

[@RomaniKiwi]

@OurSmallFootprint You're still learning about your new environment... Just like we were. Give yourself some slack. Your kids couldn't walk before they crawled... it all takes time. Good luck with your gardens, they'll be phenomenal!!

[@glendahamm5530]

NYSSA, THIS WAS MY FIRST TIME WATCHING YOUR VIDEO AND IT DID NOT "TURN ME OFF," AS A MATTER OF FACT, I SUBSCRIBED !!!! I ALWAYS LOVE PEOPLE WHO DON'T GIVE UP, AND YOU AND DARYL ARE THOSE KIND OF PEOPLE !!!! KEEP IT UP, Y'ALL WILL GET THERE !!!! I AGREE WITH ALISON SHANAHAN, YOUR MOVE OFF GRID WAS AND WILL CONTINUE TO BE A BLESSING !!!! MAY GOD BLESS YOU, DARYL, AND YOUR CHILDREN AS Y'ALL CONTINUE THIS JOURNEY !!!! SENDING LOVE FROM MY HOUSE TO YOURS !!!! 😊😊👍👍❤❤❤❤❤❤🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏

[@OurSmallFootprint]

Thank you Glenda :D.

[@melindakeyte8430]

I also watch Our tribe of Many. That's how I found you channel. I live in Australia to. It's amazing and a privilege to experience what you guys are doing. My mother and father did the same thing. Dad was a miner in Blair Atohl Coal Mine and mum was a stay at home mum. One day my parents said we are moving and we did have our ups and downs with setting up the place. Like we had to put in a boar down to have water to moving building together to make a full house. Still to this day my brother and dad are still on the property with my mum watching down from heaven. I'm been in NSW for the last 20 years and I can honestly say I do miss my life in Clermont and having the life we had. I would love some day to go back to that life but for now just watching you gives me hope.

[@OurSmallFootprint]

Circumstances rushed us, but I can't be mad, because if we waited for the 'right time' we'd prob still not be here, it would still be a weekender, unfinished and we'd still be struggling to make ends meet! or we wouldn't and Darryl would have had his breakdown while we also had a mortgage to pay or rent or businesses to run etc! In the end, I think what happened is definitely for the best!

[@ladyjean2809]

I have this funny moment each time I watch a new videos from you and that is, I ALWAYS wave at you and say "Hi Nyssa"......good thing there's no-one else in the house to witness it. LOL! Hello from Alberta, Canada

[@OurSmallFootprint]

Lol, when people tell me they watch my videos on their TV screen I cringe, lol, I need the abstract of knowing people watch but not hearing about it lol, its slightly embarrassing :D Thank you :D

[@Kazacks9602]

I love watching you Nyssa because you don’t create content that is fake; you are very much real life. I love watching you cook and can totally relate with the damn flies…. 😂😂 Plus you are a fellow Aussie. 💓

[@OurSmallFootprint]

Hehe, thank you Carol... I'm looking forward to the weather cooling down and less flies!

[@Kazacks9602]

I have finished watching the whole video and just want to say that I admire you so very much Nyssa.

[@OurSmallFootprint]

@@Kazacks9602 Thank you Carol!

[@aussiemumof2253]

Great video! News articles are shocking at times especially the daily mail. So many keyboard warriors have no common sense or empathy for others....which is absolutely shocking! Great job with the questions!

[@OurSmallFootprint]

I think it was easy to ignore because the comments were so ignorant, they didn't take the time to look at any videos or anything, they did it purely off a photo of me and headlines. So ignoring it was easier because it was so 'wrong'

[@ROCKPILEOffgridHomestead]

42 mins + and I’m here for it 🐿️

[@OurSmallFootprint]

Lol, I definitely squirrelled a little :S

[@voodookitchenmama]

My goodness. Sometimes life is difficult. However we end up just where we belong. I love your phrase, "progress not perfection". Indeed!

[@OurSmallFootprint]

Definitely, I think we are in the best place we could be regardless of the struggles still to come and that have passed :D

[@doobs444]

Nyssa, sorry it’s not much but found your family yesterday and was hooked, you both are doing awesome things to help and keep your family together/happy and safe. Please keep your chin up and stay strong, there will always be detractors, negative/jealous people. I am a bigger woman and have been all my life and get that from a lot of people, including my mom, so it’s lovely to see you and your mom get along so well Take care Snookums 😊

[@OurSmallFootprint]

Every little bit adds up! Which is why KZbin works! Every view and every ad watched each person only has to do a little and it means a lot to us, so Thankyou for the extra! :)

[@paulaelves5160]

i love listening to your squirreling ,beautiful vlog and so honestly truthfull, thankyou for sharing your journey so far,onwards and upwards,is all we can do xxx

[@OurSmallFootprint]

THank you Paula, and yes, forward momentum is all we can aim for! :D

[@paulaelves5160]

@@OurSmallFootprint love your vlogs hun makes my day xxx

[@irenedombryant2023]

Laughing at the squirrel comments ( rambling ). Really like the channel, came up by chance and will say have watched when I can. Really like the voice over, you really do have a calming voice. Was clearing and sorting yesterday and just let your 4-6 week shop uploads just run on loop ( even though have already watched most ). Was great, stopped to watch the couple I had not seen. I think you and Darryl have achieved so much. When you spoke about mental health and how Darryl coped with the move really sounded as though Darryl had burnout on top of this. Most of us do not realise how much stress we live with in Day to day life and how our bodies cope with it. Until you see someone really struggle do you realise, things you "think" are important become irrelevant. Next time I have the time will watch all the gardening ones and other play lists. Not saying I won't go back over them all as, Daughter is vegetarian and you have some great recipes on the channel.

[@OurSmallFootprint]

Definitely, I think 6 kids in quick succession (all barring the first are only 15 months apart and we had some with health issues, Sonnet has Club Feet and the twins were 7 weeks premature) plus taking on all the businesses and everything else, we pushed really hard and it wasn't until we stopped that we realised how hard we'd pushed, and his ability to cope was impacted, I've very much been a push through it with a smile kind of person, but he obviously was not that hehe. Thank you Irene! oh, I'm ordering some black beans this week, we want to try and make some burgers with them etc, Apollo isn't overly keen on meat, he's not adverse to it, but would like some veggie options, so we're going to try a few things! :D

[@irenedombryant2023]

@@OurSmallFootprint Thank you for the reply Nyssa, much appreciated as aware it takes up your free time, not something you have a lot of. Wow, I thought having my daughter seven weeks prem with some set backs was hard, to have twins, Sonnet's condition and your's and Darryl's health concerns and everything else that was going on; it really shows how strong you both are and were. Be proud of what you have achieved. My daughter does not like the texture of meat also, the idea of eating meat, looking forward to anything you put up.

[@tiagronwald3361]

I just found your channel. I have been binge watching to catch up. I love the courage you have to share your family and story. People can be mean ignore those as best you can. I have 10 daughters, 6 living at home full time. Love your math skills 😆. Keep going !!

[@OurSmallFootprint]

Welcome Tia and Thank you! :D

[@pindarifarmlife]

Thank you so much Nyssa for sharing so much of your experience with us, it adds a whole other dimension to your already wonderfully unique family journey. I'm so glad you left the nastiness and trolling where it belongs (that being not in your headspace) and focus on us the people who love your videos and all they encompass, squirreling included lol (that's one of my favourite things about you, I'm a squirreler too 😂) I've learnt so much from you already and will continue to follow along, and cheer you all on. Cheers Lee 😊🌻🐿

[@OurSmallFootprint]

Thank you Le-Anne, much appreciated! :D

[@jannetomlinson1831]

Love your channel,so great having an Australian family. Don’t worry about ignoramous people. Would love to hear how you chose your children’s names and perhaps a little of how you homeschool.

[@OurSmallFootprint]

I need to cover some of the homeschool stuff, a lot of people have asked! I will definitely do that :). The kids names all have musical or literature references! Generally speaking we spent a lot of time finding names/words that we loved the sound of but also fit that criteria!

[@weefannyarbuck1802]

Hello from Scotland. Really enjoying your channel. It is Sarah and Solo from Our Tribe of Many. They are now moving to a new homestead just now.

[@OurSmallFootprint]

I went and checked afterwards hehe, I totally had a mind blank standing out there!

[@allisonburany8724]

My daughter and partner have just gone off grid they have 7 children several animals and just winging it at the moment so I am going to show her your Chanel so thank you

[@OurSmallFootprint]

There was definitely a lot of winging it for us initially too heh

[@thelmacampbell2623]

Ms Nyssa, a ❤ reply is plenty of a reply for anyone....u have enough on your plate without trying to spread yourself thinner...." we have everything we need" was so beautifully spoken, I felt it in my soul...your videos are always interesting and informative...your children are getting the education of a lifetime...God bless u and yours...

[@OurSmallFootprint]

THank you Thelma :D

[@jessicamorice5933]

The more I watch your videos the more I enjoy them. I think you're all doing a fantastic job 👍

[@OurSmallFootprint]

Thank you Jessica :D

[@helenstevenson9008]

Nyssa, I commented the other day saying I’d not long ago found your channel ( which I’m going through your videos bit by bit) I’d just like to say a few things ( of which none are negative) I don’t think you ramble, you are a good speaker, you seem honest, down to earth, and from what I have seen you are kind, ( you love your family and especially your mum) which to me is important. Good luck with all your plans. Best wishes from a fellow Aussie 🇦🇺👏

[@OurSmallFootprint]

Thank you Helen :)

[@annahoover5296]

Nyssa you are amazing,I am loving your videos,Learning a lot.The vast knowledge you have for all the cooking you do.And I mean you cook from scratch,awesome.❤❤❤❤❤

[@UrbanHomesteadArtist]

What an incredible journey. You both can be proud of your courage, resilience and all you’ve achieved. Kayleen

[@OurSmallFootprint]

It is quite amazing looking back, it doesn’t feel like much until you look back!

[@honey-bee-farmstead]

ThIs was GREAT!! I love learning more about our fellow Homesteaders

[@OurSmallFootprint]

There's so many different paths to a homestead :)

[@elisalind4660]

Thanks for sharing Nyssa. I love how real and honest you are as so many sugarcoat the reality of day to day life.

[@OurSmallFootprint]

I think it takes far more effort to sugarcoat than it does to just share as it happens, it may not be as pretty or as aesthetically pleasing, but it is the right now and that's not a bad thing! :D

[@cynthiagilbert]

Thank you for sharing this 🎉🎉

[@debimorsette1685]

Fairly new subscriber. So lovely to hear your story. You’ll look back in 10 years and continue to be thankful for this choice for yourselves and your children. Debi in Vicksburg, MS, USA 🥰🥰

[@OurSmallFootprint]

Welcome Debi :). I hope so, I can't see any reason to regret the choices we've made so far! I am still loving the life, and maybe the kids think they're hard done by every now and again, but I'm sure they'd feel that way no matter how we lived, kids! hehe.

[@bevd8181]

I love your honesty Nyssa. You let us experience life as it is in Australia and I think of you as my friend. Your name often crops up in conversations at home and I think people think I really know you in person ha ha. Just carry on being you xx

[@OurSmallFootprint]

Heh, I have that with some youtubers as well, I mention them to Darryl by name but then have to reference where they are from heh. Thank you!

[@ROCKPILEOffgridHomestead]

❤ this and you lady are wonderful. Thankyou for inviting us into your life.

[@OurSmallFootprint]

Thank you Amanda and Corey! :D

[@thistleberrycottage2792]

Thank you Nyssa, for sharing your story. We all have stories, some similar and some very different. You are an inspiration and proof that when there is the will, there is a way! Bless you.

[@OurSmallFootprint]

Thank you! Yes, everyone has their path! :D

[@joshgrim]

You are amazing, a true inspiration to myself and my wife ❤

[@rebeccarogers3420]

Hi Nysa, I’ve recently discovered your page. Slowly working through all your videos. Love your honesty and wish you and Daryl all the best.

[@OurSmallFootprint]

Welcome Rebecca, and thank you! :D

[@jenn4482]

Nyssa- one of my dearest friends lives far from me and has lived similar to the way you do at times as a single mother with 7 children. People can be very cruel. She’s been so misunderstood more times than I know😔….She (and her children) are some of the best people I know….When I found you, I knew she would love you. I’ve recommended her to you and I watch you, not only so you feel understood and supported, but also to feel close to her 💖. Thank you so much for your videos. We love them!

[@OurSmallFootprint]

Snap judgements are the worst, making a judgement based on actually taking notice, I can live with, but the snap judgements... urgh.

[@bsalii]

Awwww

[@Bush_Edge_Homesteading_Aus]

Loved this share Nyssa 💝 So real and honest.

[@OurSmallFootprint]

Thank you!

[@pongwmlrt]

Love your channel! You are real life and your channel will continue to grow. 💜

[@OurSmallFootprint]

Thank you! :D

[@cherylyancey1179]

I think you are doing a great job of your Q&A. I do so like to hear you ramble about your life. Thank you it really makes you real

[@OurSmallFootprint]

THank you Cheryl, lol, I had intent to cover more, but it just didn't happen heh

[@peggyterschluse9060]

You are brilliant and beautiful. I am so proud of your honesty and accomplishments. I love your videos!

[@billydee8048]

Thanks for your openness in sharing how you came to be living off grid. I love watching all your KZbin videos especially because you’re a fellow Aussie. The “buy me a coffee” option sounds good to me but I don’t know a whole lot about it or patreon for that matter. You’re very inspiring and I wish you all good health and lots of off grid success ❤ can’t wait for your next installment 😊

[@OurSmallFootprint]

Thank you Billy! :D I'll keep everyone informed as I figure out what I want to do moving forward, but the content won't change regardless :D

[@rosas5542]

You are a beautiful person and you have a beautiful family, thank You for chairing a little bit of you life.💖🥰

[@OurSmallFootprint]

Thank you Rosa :)

[@elizaC3024]

We love you being natural in your life, whether kitchen, garden, solar, or home schooling, or grocery shopping. So keep them coming. We love your video's.

[@Jan-ob4dm]

Thanks for your honesty. This chat was informative. Glad things have settled down for Daryl. Take care. Jan. X

[@OurSmallFootprint]

Thank you Jan! I think he's hit his stride now, he still has his moments, but mostly we've hit an even keel I think! :D

[@Jan-ob4dm]

@@OurSmallFootprint My partner has depression and anxiety that comes and goes. We take every at a time. Thankfully things are really good at the moment. X

[@jennaraatikainen1848]

I recently discovered your channel, love watching you doing your thing. So inspiring. I live in Finland and currently the weather is -24celcius and loads of snow everywhere. My circumstances are a bit different from yours, but I love youtube for allowing me to see what likeminded people all over the globe are doing 😊

[@OurSmallFootprint]

I love the way youtube opens windows into other places and peoples lifestyles! so Cold! even at the coldest we only get to -8 and it is only for a few hours!

[@jennaraatikainen1848]

@@OurSmallFootprint the coldest we get is a little over 30 🫣

[@OurSmallFootprint]

@@jennaraatikainen1848 I've never even seen snow! Darryl is from New Zealand, one day, when the kids are older, he can take me there and show me all the stuff he wants to and I can see it :D

[@jennaraatikainen1848]

@@OurSmallFootprint 😍

[@johannanz5451]

Thank you so much for sharing. Real life honesty is so refreshing. Love your channel ❤❤❤

[@OurSmallFootprint]

Thank you Johanna :)

[@kirvin8737]

Id rather watch you and your family. I love your channel.

[@kirvin8737]

I simply cant pay to watch you. :( sorry

[@deborahlee8135]

All i can say is i've been speechless at your story ❤🤗❤ well done

[@OurSmallFootprint]

Thank you Deborah :)

[@kerrijones719]

Hey Nyssa, thank you for sharing you and your family's journey to date. It sounds like it's been quite the ride. I am so glad you moved forward from the fb reaction, people can be so cruel and judgemental. You keep doing what is best for you and your family and all your subs will enjoy what you share. It is a privilege for us to watch your progress and see things through the eyes of your family. Take and keep up the wonderful work. 😊😊

[@OurSmallFootprint]

Thank you Kerri, I'm so glad that I found a community that wanted to watch, and that was willing to spend time with me!

[@Sasha-16june]

Gosh I love your honesty and rawness. You are helping so many people take another step in their journey by sharing yours with us. 😊

[@donnamedley4712]

Life is short, and can be hard for sure. When the kids are grown and you and Daryl will have some wonderful memories of this whole experience. You are obviously a resident woman and a fabulous wIfe and mom. God bless you and yours.💖

[@OurSmallFootprint]

Thank you Donna :D. I think I'll look back and remember how challenging it was but also feel proud to have gotten further through it! :D

[@BouncySlim1]

I found your channel about a week ago and I absolutely love it!!!! You have awesome culinary skills, budgeting and management skills. I told my niece about you and how beautiful you and your family are!!!! Keep doing what you are doing!!!!!! Looking forward to builds, gardens, more canning, cooking and chat videos. Grace, peace and blessings from PA, USA

[@OurSmallFootprint]

Thank you! :D

[@kjybutterfly]

Loved chatting with you and your squirrels and tangents. It came across as very heartfelt and i found it interesting. I always look forward to your videos as you are real and honest. Something that is hard to find on you tube. I am off to sleep now but will give my thoughts on patreon etc tomorrow as you have asked. Night.

[@OurSmallFootprint]

Sleep Well! :) I'm about to crash as well, get the kids sorted first lol

[@sharonburling2262]

Hi there. Really enjoyed this video. Wish it went for another hour or so. Would love more information about the solar system you have. I find that your channel is not only honest, but extremely helpful with regards to your explanations on how to do things, whether cooking or not. You make everything look easy, especially bread making, sausages and pasta. I was told a saying years ago which I try to live by, not always successfully. " It's none of my business, what other people think about me ". Live your life. Your doing a fantastic job of it, especially with 6 children and the adversities you have all been through! Hold your heads high!

[@OurSmallFootprint]

Yes, what people think about me is their issue/problem not mine, and I do very much live by that, and at times it is much better that I am the one handling this not Darryl, he would never have been able to leave that thread alone and it would have caused angst, I'm glad I can just walk away and vaguely wonder, but know I don't need to read it hehe :D. Thank you Sharon!

[@jacquibiggart1578]

Love your videos, especially love all the amazing baking and cooking you can do in your outdoor kitchen

[@OurSmallFootprint]

Thank you! It has taken practice, but I'm pretty happy with how things are now :D

[@aeonfluxcapacitor77]

I have so much to say but really the overwhelming thought is you don't ramble. Your thoughts and experiences are very interesting. I appreciate you, so thank you 😊

[@OurSmallFootprint]

Thank you, I do try and be as concise as possible, but I know I double back a little when trying to explain and then when I'm editing I think of things I probably would have added too lol, but our lives are complicated and messy, trying to express them neatly is always going to be hard! Thank you. :D

[@aeonfluxcapacitor77]

@@OurSmallFootprint lives that are simple, neat and uniform imo are fake and dreary. Squirreling has led to some of humanity's best inventions and revelations. We need a squirrel merch mug 😂

[@OurSmallFootprint]

@@aeonfluxcapacitor77 I just thought about that, I need to draw a squirrel character! I'm inspired :D

[@aeonfluxcapacitor77]

@@OurSmallFootprint yes! 😂🐿️

[@GunnaonedayHomestead]

You're such a natural on your video. Live your channel such a inspiration 😁 I look forward to your vids x

[@OurSmallFootprint]

This one got held up in review for some reason! Thank you, it has taken a while to get comfortable in front of the camera!

[@Rebecca-zp4gm]

It’s amazing what you and your family have achieved. You can waste so much money on fancy things etc. It’s so hard rebuilding lives - I was abused by my parents for 25 years, 10 years later it’s hard but I’m stronger for doing it. I don’t need a degree, I going to rebuild some new hamster lines - winter whites are my favourites. I rescued a robo called fudge as no one could cope with him. The vet was suggesting to put him to sleep. He is healthy and happy running around my flat. Life is what u make it and short too.

[@OurSmallFootprint]

Definitely, you direct your existence, and you choose how you handle adversity, it is hard, and in the moment it feels so overwhelming, but I reckon if you come out the other side it can add to your existence rather than shape it :D

[@kathyfletcher4694]

The comment "Man imagine the squirrel trails I could go off in an hour" actually made me laugh out loud (and loudly). I think I scared the dog :) Thank you for being so real. Those of us who deal with ADD, chronic pain illnesses and other problems can definitely relate to you. We are here and we are listening and occasionally talking back to you even though you can't hear us through the screen😆

[@OurSmallFootprint]

Lol, poor puppy! :D. Thank you! :D

[@smallscalepermaculture]

That was my favorite video so far (excluding garden stuff ofc but you know me 😌)! It's all those little real details, all the little insights that makes deeper understanding and compassion possible. Thank you!

[@OurSmallFootprint]

Thank you Bobby! I wish I could get more garden stuff going, but I'm going to live vicariously through your spring planting I think! and learn more and more to try and put into practice here for our spring :D

[@smallscalepermaculture]

@@OurSmallFootprint I hope you will be patient because we're not ready to start stuff yet :) And yes, gardens can be like that, sometimes epic, other times epic disappointment! That's why I try to diversify and seeing your fruit trees and bushes take off really is a good sign. As my late grandpa used to say, *something at the very least* will work in every given year!

[@clairescott6540]

I love my tribe of many, Sarah is lovely xx Love your channel aswell xx

[@OurSmallFootprint]

Her video on how she started definitely inspired me to do those initial every day videos!

[@ourhyggehome]

I've wanted to start a channel as well, but I know how mean people can be. I'm a voluptuous lady who has a lot of homemaking (cooking, cleaning, budgeting) skills that I would love to share with the world. You have inspired me to give it another thought ❤ Thank you 😊

[@OurSmallFootprint]

Definitely worth giving it a go, you can always work away if you find it too difficult! But I'm pretty thick skinned, my husband finds it harder, he stays away from the comments etc because he would find it difficult not to respond.

[@jacquienatale2160]

Enjoy watching your journey xxx

[@OurSmallFootprint]

Thank you for joining me! :D

[@annamaria8755]

We didn't have much of a choice to move where we are either. Making the best of it. Strength is in the journey. You are doing great!

[@OurSmallFootprint]

Definitely, make the most of what we have and try and improve when we can :D

[@virginialynch7207]

Your charm is your success. Because you speak to us personally ,I truly enjoy your videos.

[@OurSmallFootprint]

Naww, thank you Virginia :D