working in a rural town long-term - a raw perspective on a simple life

working in a rural area - my perspective from years in the countryside: in this video I wanted to share some challenges my community faces, including lack of affordable housing, limited resources, and increasingly rampant wildfires. Rent costs are quite high, and very few options for young working class people, which is a problem when a population is rapidly aging and needs the support of workers. Still, there is resistance to change despite the knowledge of these issues, and that’s understandable too. I don’t have too many opinions myself on the matter, this is a complex issue, and I am no expert. But I thought it would be interesting to share! Much love.
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[@TheCottageFairy]

Hello everyone ❤️ just wanted to share some things that my community is thinking about right now, I thought it would be interesting! Of course all of this is outweighed by how much I love living here, but I thought it would be interesting to share, as I have only made a couple videos about topics like these. I hope it inspires people to get involved and be part of positive change, I find it to be so fulfilling and motivating. Perhaps it’s the preschool teacher in me, but I always loved being honest with my students about challenges the world faces while using it as a tool to inspire hope and positive action. And to be clear, this really isn’t intended in any way to be negative, if you hear me out before commenting I think you will see that my full message is always positive ❤️ Sending much love!

[@laurafisher3800]

Please don’t ever need to explain your truths to anyone. Stay true always. Love💜💜💜💜💜

[@blackthornsloe8049]

🦋🌸

[@Gwaycee]

Could you kindly pin your comments? So they won't get lost among all the many others.

[@anthonyw2931]

i think it's to our detriment that we as a society cannot come together with varying opinions and perspectives to discuss everything, which includes the very real threat to us by our lack of being mindful of our planet. True conservatives would be excellent at keeping the old ways that worked and progressives improving on those things as well as getting rid of things that don't. environmental migration will be the norm and it's best to be prepared. People like you with such a large platform have a huge influence to potentially galvanize political action. i absolutely this video and hope more comes our way.

[@jenjem5810]

Truth is constructive. Many times we must voice the drawbacks to get ahead. You cannot refrain from calling out a problem by excluding the negative. Solutions lie in identifying problems clearly.

[@charlesdanjou175]

Because I'm a science geek, I decided to conduct an experiment. Using a blood pressure cuff, I measured my BP before watching this video. Results indicated stage 1 hypertension. After watching, I measured again and my BP was well into the normal range. Therefore, Watching Cottage Fairy videos is good for the heart. While unable to test for mind or soul, I do believe results would be similar ;-)

[@morganphillips8634]

Awwww. That was sweet.

[@flowerpixel]

I have diastolic hypertension and Ive even commented on different channels such as this one that they're lowering my blood pressure. Although I haven't tested yet Im sure they are for me too. Cheers🥂

[@wendya5887]

Lol, I sent video to my daughter and said, “so peaceful video.” 😂

[@sarrahlee4118]

Brilliant...im doing it now...🥰 but I already feel it 😊🤟🦋

[@jackieo8693]

Good experiment

[@courtneyawalsh]

Housing security on earth should be a much bigger and more urgent priority than multibillion dollar rockets to the Moon or Mars. Skewed priorities. Great video as always, Paola! I’d rather watch your peaceful mini films than any violent, big budget, low soul summer blockbuster? Any day. You are a better cinematographer and storyteller than anyone in Hollywood right now. By far. 🙏🏼

[@pawprintsjersey5787]

Exactly 💯

[@disabilityadvoc8]

Quote from somewhere, "We could be repairing roads and schools but right now that money is needed for more important things like campaign ads."

[@christinebutler7630]

There's land enough in rural areas, and there is no shortage of cheap, durable and comfortable ways to build shelter. The problem is building codes and zoning that constrain what you can do on your own land. One single change in the law could make it affordable for an individual to construct a dwelling on rural land and that is, permit composting and increasing toilets. Our stubborn refusal to consider alternatives to outdated nineteenth century technology wastes water and saddles homeowners with the requirement of forking out $30,000 or more to excavate and install a septic tank. A good composting toilet is perfectly sanitary and a whole lot cheaper.

[@SisterShirley]

@@disabilityadvoc8 you do know the difference between campaign funds and funds for roadwork and schools, right? One is through optional donation (except for presidential campaigns) And the other is with taxpayer's money; not optional.

[@larakaramazova777]

How do you propose to "fix" housing insecurity. In fact, how do you define "housing security". Another government handout? What?

[@VictoriaPfeifer]

You are so inspiring. I know you said you don’t plan on making many videos with this topic (global warming and its impacts) but if you were to make it, I would never complain. Thank you for your videos

[@esterhudson5104]

Climate change and a check mark…whoo woo! Listen up folks! We’re about to be lectured..

[@albertstraumVLOG]

It was really refreshing to hear the downside to rural living, instead of only the dreamy and positive sides. Thank you for dealing with that topic.

[@Anja22_13]

We live in a beautiful small, off-the-beaten-track town in New Zealand. It's very quiet here, not that many job opportunities either and rents are very expensive and not a lot of houses available to rent. We are not from here, we just stumbled upon this place and loved it's natural beauty. We were lucky, we bought a property 20 years ago before the price of land went through the roof. We were able to build our own small house. Our property was completely overgrown with weeds which we have removed (well, most of them) and planted thousands of trees which are thriving, together with the bird life. We see this as our small contribution to make the world a better place. And it has really made a difference to our own well-being and happiness.

[@SisterShirley]

Sounds lovely and level-headed too!

[@bernicebabe4154]

South Island?

[@Anja22_13]

@@bernicebabe4154 No, North Island - there are very beautiful places too. 😃

[@bernicebabe4154]

@@Anja22_13 totally agree. I am a Northlander transplanted to the SI. We are blessed with a stunning country.

[@ananyabasu3770]

I too want to live in New Zealand.😉

[@veesimmons2464]

I don't find any negativity in what you presented here. The concerns you raise are a realistic part of everyone's life. Your love for community is evident in every video you make.

[@uptown3636]

While watching and listening, I felt my breath slow and my jaw unclench. The disarming honesty and beautiful images worked together to make my anxiety melt away.

[@sparrowgeiller9360]

Your videos are a balm for the soul. I appreciate how much beauty you capture. I share your concerns, and I think we do need to keep the discussion going about what to do. We are all on the same team, Team Planet Earth. May we ALL thrive and prosper together, and by ALL, I mean all sentient beings and everything that is.

[@caraortega4474]

Love what you have to say, it is so true. In my original home town, the growth happened unbelievably fast. People fell in love with the culture, the location and quaintness of the area. Then they started complaining that the place didn’t have this or that… basically what they left behind. They started creating what they left behind until they created the landscape and HELL they had left behind. Felt our culture was oppressive, but they failed to recognize that some things that happened is our history and it is part of OUR culture. Completely destroyed our community and it is not recognizable as it once was. Very commercialized, very touristy, very snobbish. Locals, both young and old, can hardly afford to live there because of increased property taxes, etc, and housing shortages. Their way of life was shoved down our throats with very little respect for indigenous knowledge or people. Hope other communities learn from what has devastated us. I’m talking about Santa Fe, New Mexico. I am a northern New Mexican, an endangered species. Peace and love to you!❤️

[@ooievaar6756]

well, I live in the Netherlands (Holland) and here places lots of places also are spoilt by tourists, wealth, rising prices. It is a global phenomenon. Been to Mexico once, and it get your point. Actually what we all love to see and expierence is purety. Like a native forest, original housing, buildings, people in folk clothes etc etc. Sometimes it is pure poverty. Thats why it is all still there in the first place !! But the more people are coming in, the more the beauty they came for vanishes. Then it is just an act instead of real behaviour....Like a flower, or fish, you cant expect it to have he same colours or behaviour in a vase or an aquarium as in the wild. Culture and nature are fragile.

[@vikkicantwell2237]

Cara this really is food for thought… I live in SF Bay Area and wish to retire in a small community somewhere in the Pacific Northwest where there is no fast food/coffee or big box stores, only community and the beauty of nature. But many people are moving out of CA just to leave the state and I can see exactly what you say happening. It’s sad but true and helps me understand why some of our western states are less than happy to have a bunch of Californians move in - it changes the dynamics. I’ll be visiting Santa Fe and Taos next month for the first time, will remember what you’ve said and try to look beyond what is for what was. I’m sure it’s beautiful!

[@senbebe3320]

Aww I’m so sorry to hear that 🥺 your story is such an important reminder on informing ourselves on respecting different peoples’s cultures. Those people likely didn’t intend for that to happen and probably didn’t realise what they were doing but hopefully they do gain that insight and will in future prevent that cultural loss. It’s so sad to hear that that has happened to your town hopefully something can be done to recover that lost cultural aspect of your town I hope you’re doing well ❤️

[@kp3871]

Sounds like you’re talking about my area in Northern Idaho 😓

[@Maaaaaam]

Worried this will happen to my small town

[@evangeline3152]

Recently on a Saturday afternoon I was in my local dollar store and there didn’t seem to be any employees in the store so we all just lined up at the self checkout and paid for our items. I was so glad to see that no one was just walking out without paying or yelling for an employee. We’re in a rural area and we don’t want to lose our store.

[@wendya5887]

Sadly, they also understaff too. I went to thrift store…they just put in self checkout. I wanted to pay cash…no one at the till. Worker said, wait over there. I waited 15 min then just left. They want cashless society next, is what that is.

[@mimi1o8]

@@wendya5887 sad, so impersonal and less jobs in the near future.

[@MusclesandBooks]

I live in a small, mountain tourist town with the exact same housing issue - many locals work multiple jobs! (We can only afford it because I work remotely.) I'm happy to see them building more affordable housing even if that means a slightly denser population. (And yes, the hospital and even Urgent Care is 45 minutes away from me, so I feel you on that!) On a lighter note, your hair looks especially stunning in this video - that braid is so long and ridiculously thick it looks like Disney Princess hair!

[@blackthornsloe8049]

Lol I thought that about the glorious braid too !

[@MusclesandBooks]

@@blackthornsloe8049 LOL yeah I have post-Covid (should be temporary, thankfully) hair loss so I'm noticing EVERYONE'S hair right now.

[@blackthornsloe8049]

@@MusclesandBooks well , I'm having tons of menopausal hair loss . My great grandmother went completely bald on the top of her head . It's looking like I may have that gene also . At first I was horrified but now I'm having more peace with it . If beauty for me means a fabulous head scarf and earrings , so be it . Hope you fully recover . I haven't had covid yet but I fully empathize with those who have it linger .

[@MusclesandBooks]

@@blackthornsloe8049 Funny you mention that because yes, I was already dealing with menopausal hairloss as well, this just doubled it. Hugs to you! My last-ditch plan is to just shave it all off.

[@tammyhoushour8070]

@@blackthornsloe8049 please get a thyroid panel blood test. Might just what is going on.

[@blackthornsloe8049]

Appreciate your authenticity and the strength it takes to share your thoughts and inner processing .it takes a lot of strength to be that vulnerable . It feels as if you are trying to work something out on a very deep level . May there be safe spaces and people in your life as you do this . Don't sacrifice the depth of your process just to give people that you don't know their daily dose of cheerful .

[@dreed1058]

So well stated!! Thks for sharing this...

[@zahraa5475]

Totally agree👍🏻

[@welcomwelcom9882]

Totally agree - couldn't have said it better

[@cecilyerker]

Yes, you being authentic is an invaluable service! People need to see other people navigating both the highs and lows in life to realize they can also do it themselves.

[@chelseyowens7709]

Well said. It's really important to let yourself speak about what's important to you, for you. We all have things that are important to us and that we want to fix and talking about the truth is a way to make things better. It was so brave to post this and we appreciate learning.

[@janemaximoff157]

Hi, Paola. I don't think you'll ever read this, but I just wanted to say thank you. I'm new here and I've been watching and rewatching your videos constantly, they help me not to succumb completely to the feeling of creepling anxiety that has been overtaking me lately. You talk about the possibility of leaving your home, becoming ill or losing a loved one so calmly I can't help but admire you immensely. I've been paralysed by the fear of loss as of late, I can't stop thinking about how I will eventually lose my loved ones or about my own death and it scares me so much, I feel like I've lost my capability to feel joy or happiness, I just constantly think about gloomy future full of grief and loss and eventually death. And you say that today needs to be lived, and it is of course true and right, but I just cannot deal with all these things getting to my head and your videos have been an immense help in dealing with all this day in and day out. So, thank you once more, I will forever be grateful for your content and your wisdom.

[@hilarywallace9927]

We have same housing issues here in Scotland . It is important to occasionally do a video like this , and fir anyone considering moving to a rual area it is important to know of the challenges as well as the benefits. Hope you are feeling much better after your illness

[@brendap8010]

You did such a beautiful job presenting a very difficult problem in a very difficult time in our world. As a 64 yo Boomer, I sure do appreciate young people like you who have the ability and the energy to address and take action on these problems. Thank you for your videos-they are a beautiful and magical reprieve, and always inspiring and deep and healing. 🙏❤️

[@Thepotagerscottage]

Thank you Paola, your wisdom exceeds your years. It is easy to romanticise places you think you will be happier. I for one have done this many times, however, I have my piece of paradise now in Aotearoa, New Zealand and I have my garden that has grounded me and healed me through a pretty traumatic past. Climate change is so relevant and it is another hurdle we humans have to endure, yet I feel, that we will all adapt because that is what we do. I feel for you for the threat of wild fires and I hear your trepidation, it must be quite daunting when the season comes around for them. Keep making these videos. I am sitting on my couch after waking up in the morning with my coffee and start my day listening to you and I feel at peace. I bet you do that for a lot of people. Take care Paola, arohanui (big love)

[@zahraa5475]

your words are nice

[@jbellbird9050]

Kia Ora Koutou. Hello everyone!

[@toddmerritt960]

Was having a bad day and watched your video and it put a smile on my face ☺ your calm voice and honesty and respect for nature brings me joy! Thanks 🙏🏻 Todd M

[@TheCottageFairy]

Aw! Thank you so much Todd!

[@arianahoule7223]

Sending loving and peace-filled thoughts to everyone.

[@Sage555n]

My grandmother used to say, "The grass is not always greener on the other side of the fence." So true....

[@donna7338]

Sometimes the grass is greener on the other side due to a septic tank problem.

[@pamelahansen5928]

Or it’s greener where you water it

[@marinstafford]

Whenever I would talk about wanting to move somewhere else. My Mom would say, "just remember that wherever you go you have to take yourself." Meaning, you probably won't be happy anywhere if you aren't happy with yourself.

[@lindylou3519]

Sometimes we know where we belong & now can’t afford to live or move there. The grass is greener when you’ve known since childhood where you are happiest & can make that change.

[@naturesfinest2408]

The grass is greener where you water it

[@HerCupOfSIMPLE]

I've been definitely experiencing some of the same struggles where i live in the countryside, dear Paola. Anxiety is the leading feeling in young people especially... Thanks for touching such a delicate truth!💖🌿🙏

[@nicolabishop996]

I live on a Southern Gulf Island on the West Coast of Canada. We are experiencing housing shortages and not enough people to work. It's juxtaposed with being a very desirable place for tourists to visit, and I'm not sure our infrastructure can handle much more. Also, folks with more money, then perhaps the average, are buying homes here, but aren't fully contributing community members. It's a bit of a conundrum. It's beautiful, and I love living here, and, it's good to not sweep the difficulties under the rug.

[@gailsprangers9388]

While you spoke, I was smiling. I'm 66 now and have seen change in so many places. I was like you not wanting people to do things to the land I loved the way it used to be. My grandmother's 57 acre farm I used to lay in the fields and climb in the barn and run down the front field, across the dirt river road and splash in the river. Bon fires on the beach along the river in the evening and sitting on her front porch just looking out over the quiet with family. It's all gone. Roads run like patchwork through what used to be her hayfields and neatly placed homes line paved roads. Even the beach seemed to have narrowed. I went there with my sister years ago trying to remember the exact spot where her home once stood with the elm tree near the dirt drive. I never returned. Change is inevitable. Today my children have grown and are raising their own families. Blessedly they are near and we are close. The dirt patches where they played in the yard are now beautiful grown lawn and I spend my time raising chickens and tending to my gardens and enjoying my retirement and time with my husband. I know the daisies in my gardens are there only while I tend to them and my vegetables will only be there for the season. I can't stop change and perhaps it's really not my place to try to control what others do with the lands they own. I can control my land while its mine. Hopefully my example of caring for my land will insire others to do the same. The people around me thankfully care for their land as I do. I look at how things are now and move on rather than yearning for how things once were. I remember my mom talking how things had changed since she was younger and I do the same to my children's children and so this is the way of life. Change is inevitable and even though things that we find comforting and familiar change, it is now someone elses fond time for them to look back on in years to come and say "I remember when".

[@ingridmenningatorontoreale5150]

It's so true what you say. It's also so easy to over-romanticize what once was. And there is a lot of improvement that's easy to forget. Live how you like and don't hold others hostage to it, in my humble opinion. I would never want to move back to the 32 acre farm I grew up on...but I am happy to have a half acre nearby.

[@kimmberlie573]

Congratulations on one million subscribers. Your beautiful artistry and soothing soul has brought so much joy to us.

[@awilda2724]

You are a solace, a corner of comfort in my world. I'm a 76 year old Boricua living in Arizona, feeling a bit displaced, missing the Ocean, the flowing sweet waters, our rain forest.... Your essence & the beauty you bring into the world bring sweetness to my soul. Mil gracias!

[@dreed1058]

You are truly an old soul. Your comments were very thoughtful, and beautifully stated! I've grown Echinacea and never knew how to make the tea - thks! Love seeing you film Garden and your beautiful hand dyed (sp?) scarves. You are simply a delight, feel like we've just worshipped our planet ❤️ 🤲. 🫂 Hugs!!

[@margaretpiddock455]

We too have the same problem with housing in the UK, its so hard everywhere, there are many people who live in the countryside, and their growing family are unable to move near them, because of cost. We desperatly need more affordable homes. There are positive and negative things about anywhere we live. I love how you embrace the countryside and truly appreciate it x

[@moongold9025]

What a beautiful sunset and the sound of the rain on your roof. So lovely. Those cherries 🍒 you picked looked fabulous. What do you plan to make with those gorgeous gems? Those pieces of cloth that you had dyed turned out pretty. I wish you peace, love, harmony and All of Life's Blessings Paola and to All of those who see this. 🧡

[@EnglishCoach3Ts]

Such important things to talk about and bring to awareness. Thank you.

[@Shonaleereiss]

Love from a small relatable town in rural North Idaho! I can’t believe I caught the upload as it happened!! Hope you are feeling better!!! 💜

[@albertstraumVLOG]

💖

[@TheCottageFairy]

Thank you!! I am feeling so much better ❤️

[@bethm2699]

What I love about you and your videos . . . you/they are always so thoughtful, engaging, poetic, visually stunning, organized, introspective, motivating, inspiring, and expertly edited. You weave a story together so beautifully! I can't wait to read your book, because I know it will also have all of these elements! Your community is truly lucky to have you in it! Thank you for giving us something of value every time you upload!♥

[@Gwaycee]

I know that many people no longer have an interest in spiritual things, but prayer still is an undeniable source of calm in an otherwise troubled life. Just you and God talking out the things that worry you. And of course thanking Him for all that you are grateful for. The books we read and the music we listen to also ought to rest the mind rather than create anxiety. This has worked for me, considering I am by nature a very anxious person.

[@mifnp8887]

@@mikenoneofyourbusiness7122 Wow! What a nasty, judgmental, and completely erroneous response. You are clearly very troubled. 🙄 God is absolutely interested in all of our prayers, both big and small. Jesus died so that we could have life and life more abundantly. We are taught to simply ASK if we lack anything. He hears us and will answer our prayers. What on earth prompted you to attack her like that?

[@michellebilodeau3882]

He soothes our hearts.

[@Erin_29]

@@mikenoneofyourbusiness7122 not Biblical at all.

[@ninjablueflame6]

Yes, prayer is a source of peace 🙏

[@deniseunterman9652]

Mike, I'm sure you're in big demand for parties and other festive, happy occasions.

[@katheejasuhail8280]

It's so hard to find people who are driven for good causes and also be humble about it at the same time. You are a true inspiration. As much as I am passionate about climate change, I've never been informed on community welfare. This video opened my eyes ❤❤❤

[@susanfinn3699]

I see you and Luke are also upcycling some of the old surveying sticks we have loads of at the office. I have used a bunch of them to build doors for the deer fencing I have used both on my porch, and on the front yard fencing I put up this year. I think I will get some more to make some trellises! Your place is so beautiful.💜

[@ss-so4jw]

Paola you are so inspirational, aesthetic, creative, eloquent, honest and I watch your channel with each new episode with such enthusiasm and thank you with gratitude for the hard work it must take to bring out these treasured videos each week.

[@rieriema1827]

This video is incredibly beautiful. The shot at 1:24 took my breath away. I love your way of capturing all these moments. Also this video made me think about some aspects and problems that I didn't really think about before (not enough people that work in a supermarket in rural areas, the housing problem...). After watching this I can just say that I really like your outlook on things and this video is just stunning.

[@jodigirl6610]

I love the sound of the rain! It is my favorite. I live in drought striken Northern California and rain is so precious! We lived for 20 years in Paradise, California that burned down in a huge forest fire a few years ago. We had already moved away before the fire, but going back to see the devastation was absolutely heartbreaking! Climate change is real and it's scary. ♡

[@rachaelr7567]

I love starting my Sundays with you 💜 Thank you for sharing.

[@AM-br4ix]

Watching and listening to this before bed… a beautiful calming to end my day. Thanks for sharing Paola!! Sei propio Bella Ragazza!!

[@Red.Christopher]

Retirement is on my horizon and I am considering something more rural than my current suburban existence. I'm adding these issues to my list of things to consider in my future plans. I'm glad you brought them up.

[@mdipeace]

Choose carefully. In my experience rural towns are not filled with people like Paola.

[@phabulouss1]

@@mdipeace Very wise advice. Much discernment is needed.

[@seedy6538]

Don't come to Montana or Idaho. It is the same deal. People come in, retire and don't contribute to overall infrastructure regarding jobs.

[@Red.Christopher]

@@mdipeace That has been my unfortunate observation as well. And not just rural towns. Where I live they consider anyone who wasn't born and raised here an outsider.

[@Red.Christopher]

@@seedy6538 That is interesting. I wonder what that is about? Is it that the retirees don't have much money to spend, or they do have money but don't want to spend it locally?

[@dulciecrystal2042]

Your voice is so soothing and relaxing.

[@luannedimaggio7025]

It is the same over here in the Colville area. So hard for young people. It is so important to respect our areas around us. Love your community.

[@phabulouss1]

“I believe anywhere you find love and safety is a paradise.” Thank you for this reminder. I find myself thinking if, this, that and the other were possible… but, yet in still, all our needs are met and then some. I would truly love to live more of a country setting. I think I’ll make that a matter of prayer. 🙏🏾 😊 Paola, please continue to make these wonderful heart felt, soothing, cozy videos. They mean a lot; and looking forward to the next, etc. 💕 Sending you my love.

[@raewynannbenten1385]

Hi Paola. Good on you, never apologise for being a critical thinker, I wish more people were. The issues you addressed, housing affordability, climate change impacts, health care access or lack thereof, the difficulties faced by rural or poor marginalised communities who are often ignored by state and national governments……..these issues are global. Much of what you described are also significant issues in my part of the world too (Australia and New Zealand). Your community is fortunate to have a significant group of residents with a social, environmental, and community minded spirit, willing to work hard at making your community a better place to live in, for the benefit of all.

[@lust8505]

The yellow fabric was stunning in your hair. I love how realistic this video is. I live In a very small community and we are experiencing the same challenges. We have housing shortages and the workforce is in dire need. Change is not readily accepted. Thank you for verbalizing the concerns and encouraging us to offer our help.

[@LaureninGermany]

You mentioned the two reasons I also started doing this- I wanted to help people who might not live in such a beautiful part of the world get a change of scenery during the lockdown, and also because as an singer, I wasn’t allowed to work at that time. So I filmed the beautiful places that I could so easily see and shared them. It really helped me connect to so many people, although not as many as you, of course! But it’s a wonderful feeling to still add a moment of pleasure to somebody’s day. Or as you sometimes say: or night! I always loved to hear that, because I often listen to you at night.

[@phabulouss1]

Me, too! I listen at night after work and I’m in bed winding down; so nurturing as if being read a good nights story before I sleep.

[@LaureninGermany]

@@phabulouss1 and you know she won’t shout what’s up, guys, unnecessarily loudly at the start of the video, just when you are winding down.

[@LaureninGermany]

@@phabulouss1 and you know she won’t shout what’s up, guys, unnecessarily loudly at the start of the video, just when you are winding down.

[@phabulouss1]

@@LaureninGermany Exactly. 🤗

[@samanthasancho9556]

I don’t find anything down about this video. As the title states, you’re being honest and shedding light on something that is very important and you’ve done so in such a graceful way. Thank you Paola. 🤍

[@TheCottageFairy]

Thank you very much ❤️

[@tiffanyb4422]

Watching your videos is balm for my soul in a world that never seems to slow down. Thank you 💜

[@rebeccabailey7995]

You live in a beautiful area that offers a little of everything: mountains, lovely wild flowers, and streams of soothing clear, flowing water - blessed indeed. Thanks for sharing! Love, Becky n MS

[@krisztinahutson2588]

Always so excited for new uploads! 💕

[@ernstthalmann4306]

These videos help my mental and physical health. You're a kind gentle soul.

[@heatheralvarez1441]

I love that you talk about important subjects like this. It gives so much heart to your content.

[@kathleenroberts7972]

Housing is the same issue everywhere. The rents are sky high. I see multiple generations living together to afford their home. Where you live is just paradise! I also live rural and have evacuated for fires twice and hurricanes many times. This is nature good and bad. Stay positive and wherever you live try and create home. Some cozy little touch that feels like your sanctuary from the world. Peace.

[@sarahanderson2121]

Thank you for using your platform to speak about something that is so dear to your heart and that is so important for humanity 💛🌿

[@somnisveritas6465]

I grew up in rurally, and I agree the youth drain is one of the largest issues. Its very difficult for a person to move from high school to a career path that does not involve commuting to a city if they dont come from a family with wealth already established to front the costs, and if they choose the college path will need to relocate to a city in most cases. I disagree about wildfires being the result of climate change. I grew up where major wildfires are the summer norm. The fires today are worse because of mismanagement of the wildlands. Regulations put in place in starting in the early 90s made it increasingly difficult to reduce the fuel load the fire needs to burn. Decades of this build up have left many areas a bomb just waiting for a spark. Many of my family lost their homes a few years when their town was removed from the map by a fire. Still the towns persist in refusing to cut defensible space to protect communities there. They threatened to fine someone I know because they plowed a fire break on their land in violation of regulations saying you could not create a fire break by taking things down to the soil. Its madness that gets people killed. The other factor is the population growth in relation to infrastructure to sustain those lives. CA population has exploded since the 70's but the last major reservoir to retain water during the wet year cycle was completed in 1979. When you have 20+ millions of new people, the agriculture to feed them, etc all increases water demands heavily. Its only now they are discussing projects to increase water retention capacity which is important since the area tends to only have wet years two or three times a decade. If you cant capture what you need then its going to be painful. Man once again is responsible for their plight, not Mother Nature.

[@MoeffMaehUndMuh]

Thanks for your perspective on the topics! I have something to add to the wildfire topic: I agree that mismanagement is a big issue but there is clear proof that climate change contributes to it as well. Generally speaking the changing climate leads to increasing drought and higher temperatures, which increase the fire hazard. It is a multifaceted problem with both climate change and mismanagement being huge factors :)

[@tanyaa.illustration2371]

YOU ARE RIGHT! THANK YOU FOR SAYING THIS! About the wild fires and lack of water reserves! My husband is originally from Spokane, Mead(rural) Washington state and he says the same thing about the wild fires. I lived there with him for 8 years and fires were a summer normal with barns burning down, fields burning and taking houses with them, and wells going dry. It is because of mismanagement of wild land, land management regulations and a population explosion. As for the price of housing: CA residents move in with lots of money and price locals out. My husband is 3 generation WA resident and we couldn't afford to buy a house in WA state. We moved to the South and within 2 years of settling down, bought land and a house. CA transplants did the same thing for Portland OR, where I am from where people are forced to live on top of each other in tiny apartments, sheds or leave the state altogether. My brother left for Florida, another brother is leaving next year and so is my sister - housing is VERY expensive and cramped. Again, thank you for correcting her statement.

[@jackieo8693]

And the population growth is all immigration because Americans have had a negative birth rate since the 70s

[@tanyaa.illustration2371]

@@jackieo8693 You are right. This is terrible.

[@somnisveritas6465]

@@MoeffMaehUndMuh Without the fuel load there is no disastrous fire, heat from climate change be damned. What is easier for us humans to change right now? Like today. Going completely carbon neutral right now letting the hundreds of millions living just on medicine and food created by fossil fuels die or changing regulations so people and towns can manage their own wildlands surrounding their homes? Back home I could get a ticket just for hauling out a tree or dead brush laying on the ground without jumping through regulations to obtain a permit. Its insanity costing us the ecosystem and lives when Mother Nature does it for us burning everything out.

[@YA-fy7is]

right now , I'm in a very hard mental health status . I feel lost and sad , and what makes it worse is that I don't understand myself or why I feel that way . but I found u ! and you really inspire me and give me hope to start over . to put myself first and give her a chance . I can't stop watching your videos. thank you so much !!!! love u

[@anthonyourbrother]

Thanks...it is always a pleasure 🙏 It's beautiful to see how she is living the words she speaks and sets the example for her community and many other rural places globally. I am grateful for the cottage fairy and others like her. For many, especially me, they are the catalyst we need to build create and improve upon this paradise we all share. 🙏🌹

[@alwayslearning7672]

"Even though our problems seem more and more complex, the solutions still remain very simple" - David Attenbourgh. I find it very frustrating when I know that we can solve so many of our problems like affordable housing , unemployment , environmental issues etc...but corporate greed and lack of good political decisions making is preventing that from happening. But I do have hope, because I know that many of our problems have been created by us and can be solved by us- all we have to do is decide to change the better.🙏

[@radar2ana]

Wow, that’s so good to see you harvesting your herbs, fruits, flowers, and vegetables!!!

[@cambert6799]

Oh gosh. How beautiful this channel is. My heart is full as i watch from a rainy London UK. 🙏

[@sofiapedras5764]

Im not a rural person...I love movement, shoppings, excitement, not so much quietness. Love variety, meet new things, cafes... In you I dont know your lifestyle apart for this video once a week, some countryside are close to major cities. Maybe you have your own friends and family in the same place, the company of your husband...i for instance need stimuli in another way. I like a place like that for weekends or holidays, but glad there are people like you that enjoy it. Its needed as well! Many used to say cities are overcrowded, in Portugal they were worried about the interior being deserted, but leaving nature by itself also leaves space just for nature. Your place seems organised, its keeps simple and as a natural as possible so nature can breath its own air. Of course you are going to need a supermarket, someone to work there and thats what it might happen in small places, what might be an issue. Its a choice!

[@swarm6697]

I love how you're so laid back relaxed and I can tell you have a very very good soul

[@merckypenamerckypena3768]

Gracias Paola por tu compromiso con la naturaleza 💙💚💛💜❤️

[@TheMennomilist]

I read the Book of Hope by Jane Goodall earlier this year and really felt what you said in this video. Very true and lovely. I lost one of my best friends a year ago, and she was a homesteader minimalist with 7 kids and it was really difficult on me, since she appeared so healthy but had a heart attack at 39. I really hope that your health improves. You are right that every community has challenges. It is good that you are doing what you can. I think it is good that you find your frustration with certain things but find a resolve and a way to improve the situation in your own community. The way you filmed the beginning of this video is really beautiful and must have taken a lot of time. Keep up the good work in all you do, within your own ability.

[@hannahrose5739]

Those cherries make my mouth water! We also have the affordable housing problem here on the east coast of Canada. In part it was created by people selling houses in other provinces to get away from Covid, and looking to Nova Scotia as the "ideal" place to live (if there is such a thing in a pandemic). The revenue from the sale of their house was able to afford the purchase of three properties in this province, and, the resulting bidding wars took housing away from Nova Scotians. In fact, I am one of the homeless people. (I say "homeless"--I have stayed with this person and that, not able to live as I would chose, or be myself, or work at the things that are fulfilling. I don't see the housing situation as getting better any time soon. Wracking my brains as to what "new thing" I can create that would provide at least a temporary home for me and point the way for others.

[@mangisty1007]

I needed to hear this one, I get so saddened and overwhelmed with everything going on in the world, from beautiful endangered animals / poachers, to inflation, homeless, fires, drought, etc. I do what I can but sometimes I feel like it doesn’t matter…thank you for your encouraging words 🙏🏼❤

[@BethGrantDeRoos]

15+ years ago area real estate started asking folks who were coming here to the Sierras of California, why they wanted to buy property here. This came about because to many people who have visited the area from the San Francisco Bay area, had this fantasy mindset. And once they moved here, they complained of the deer eating their vegetable gardens, rose bushes, and young fruit trees they had planted. The possums and skunks. And when told not to put feed out for the deer, they ignored the advice and expressed shock when they saw a mountain lion kill a doe eating the feed they had put out. Or when snow was up to their roofline, and snowplows were coming through every 3 days, not daily, and if grid connected, and they had no power for days or weeks, they accused the county of not doing their job! So real estate folks started asking the 'why' questions. As well as 'do you know....'?

[@BellaVita1890]

The way you braided that scarf into your hair is just BEAUTIFUL. Also, this is wonderful video with an important message. 💕

[@ellamarson3882]

Thank you , that was so relaxing even though you are talking about difficult times, I totally agree with you, I'm 70yrs old and have always tried to walk gently on this earth , grow food for my 4 children be part of their schools , support communities and help other's always , I've always had an open door policy and the kettle and baked goods awaited those that needed it as much as I enjoyed their company. The community in the mountains of Australia We're I've lived for 32yrs is still quiet but different, as many people have moved up from the city and unfortunately still want to live the fast and hectic life styles that they left , so it's changing the very peaceful area I and others before me worked hard to maintain. You inspire me to slow down and pick up my craft and books more often than I have been doing , you encourage me to keep growing my food as its just for my wife and I now, she dosen't like the same things as me ( i loved feeding 6 people the same meal that I'd grown most of) it would be easier to just buy it but I enjoy sharing it with others I meet , I linger longer and come inside with a tiny bunch if flowers or leaves for our window sill . I enjoy everything you post they fill me with joy and peace , thank you so much . Love and blessings 🌼💛🌼

[@luludi3]

Thank you for your use of natural colors to dye your fabric! Natural colorants are my passion in life and your channel reaches so many. They turned out so pretty! Turmeric always makes the most beautiful gold. 💛

[@TheCottageFairy]

Ah thank you!! I have very little experience with it but it was so fun to follow instructions in a book and see what happened! Definitely want to learn more in the future ❤️

[@SisterShirley]

@@TheCottageFairy not sure what you used to dye but does it smell like the spices used? Will it bleed if it gets wet?

[@giirlchan]

I like the way you care for your community and take care of the environment in many ways. Community is so important. I do miss that in the city life. I also like your blouse a lot :) God bless you Paola!

[@dianebaker5243]

Lovely video. Thank you for sharing 👍 🥰

[@carlabyley7983]

This occurring all around America. In my rural SE OK area, it us 17 miles to get milk or bread. 1 hr to hospital care more than a simple ER visit.. we don't have good jobs for young people, so they move away. The new normal in this country. We are retired so we can handle it. We pray for the state of our nation. Thank you for supporting your area,, as we do ours. We strive to be good stewards of our land and I am happy you are emphasizing this. Thank you.

[@floressence11]

it's so priceless how the little things in life matter so much... and how deep wisdom is transported by your beautiful channel in so many ways...

[@tdecker2937]

You do such a nice job on your videos. They are beautiful, interesting, and soothing!

[@patriciacinea3097]

With Covid we saw another urban migration to more rural areas so rapidly driving up the cost of homes and land. Added to that, technology has allowed more people to work from home. I like to call the latter, "climate cycling," based on my 6 decades of life. Even one Antarctic ice shelf has grown in the last 20 years.

[@WildOrchardOasisFarm]

So true. It's all a cycle. The fear mongering from governments around the world is over the top. I'm old enough to remember when acid rain was going to kill everything. 🙄

[@Lisa-ng5cp]

You are such a lovely soul, and your videos bring so much peace. Many thanks.

[@teresakryvenchuk6205]

Paola... The natural dyes you used are amazing. Such rich colors.

[@mariannemantomingcal5043]

I love your voice

[@Joy_Yanica]

I loved the shot of the rain on the wooden patio ❤️

[@karenstairs8273]

It shows that you love your community. Shining a light on the needs in our world is heartwarming.

[@caitlyn449]

There's always this fight between new generations and old generations. Young people cause change and older people want things to stay the same. Neither generation can full fill their purpose without the other. They both need to learn from each other. Young people need the wisdom from older people who've lived and learned. And older people need the innovations and fresh ideas of young people to solve problems that they never thought could be solved. Working together on anything is always the best way but people are too selfish and want things their way, not a way that benefits the good for all. There's much hope though. People always come together when they find a common purpose to full fill. Itll happen just have to be patient.

[@dianmoffatt9915]

Living in rural New Brunswick, I can absolutely relate to everything you've spoken of. As more consider relocating to the country from urban areas, it's important that they appreciate the challenges and just how delicate our local ecosystems are. For these people, I strongly encourage them to befriend the wonderful individuals who grew up here to learn from them, and please leave your hoa's behind. As for this next generation, yeah, they really are amazing and I truly believe that they'll make our world a better place, with our support.

[@athinaforouli]

How beautiful colours on your scarfs!

[@garymartin5898]

I love this but also instill in those children the love for this Country and her history.. ..God save our children ❤️🙏🇺🇸 Rebecca M

[@shepherdessofskymeadow]

I really appreciate that you made this video and I relate to a lot of your story - I used to live in the city, doing the whole workaholic thing, and now I live in rural Vermont where I run a retreat center, garden, keep animals and things of that nature. By all accounts my life is an absolute fairytale in comparison, but I still have my share of stressors and anxieties and difficulties and responsibilities that feel heavy at times. It's so easy to romanticize rural living (and I don't begrudge people for wanting to indulge in a little escapism now and then either) but it's life like anywhere else, it has its ups and downs and challenges. Making such a change in my own life has thrown into sharp relief just how much of my contentment really is up to my perspective more than my circumstances. If you do not focus on the good, on the things to be grateful for, you absolutely will find reasons to be unhappy even when you seemingly have everything. That's human nature. And it's easier said than done in a world that so often feels like it's closing in. Sending peaceful thoughts to everyone, and if you're struggling I sincerely hope it gets easier for you soon. 💛

[@pinkroses135]

"I believe anywhere you find love and safety is a paradise" ❤ It really is about cultivating that space wherever you are

[@pawprintsjersey5787]

Love & paradise is within..But you attract ❤️ whats within. You sure choose Love ❤️ & Paradise all round you. Abundance Abundance. Its divine mountains forest where else would you want to live. Your blessed. .Love & Light to you :) 😀Finally their is something magical about the rain. Pure bliss just to look out at the lush green listening to the rain 🌧 fall..Love it:)

[@anitahamlin2411]

You are right about anywhere you live there are always pros and cons. Remembering to cherish each day is essential to quality of life. Change is the only constant, and we often are nudged into new possibilities and growth because of it. You are so grounded and lovely!

[@Elizabeth-arb22]

I love and appreciate your perspective, Paola. The issues you discussed are deeply interesting and important. Love to you too. 💗

[@loissaedder2214]

A lot of people don't realise that affordable housing and food isn't just an issue in our own back yard but is world wide. I've learned a lot of things by watching people like you on KZbin. This seems to give a better perspective than just watching the lopsided news reports. I live in the coastal town of Hervey Bay on the Fraser Coast in Queensland. Housing, affordable rentals, indeed any rentals, is a big problem. House prices doubled or more over the last couple of years which is just crazy and of course rents sky-rocketed too. Luckiy I have my own house which I'm still paying off. I'm 72 and my 96yo mother lives with me. There are lots of stories of elderly people like me being homeless, having to live in cars etc because their leases haven't been renewed and the landlords want them out. We live in scary times. I'm starting to sound morbid and down now so I'll go and watch something uplifting I think.

[@SaiaRose]

Beautiful ! The home We seek is within not without ! Peace be with you ! God bless !

[@rositahuff4858]

…if you are at home inside of yourself….you are at home

[@blackthornsloe8049]

That's beautiful

[@WildOrchardOasisFarm]

Amen!

[@IsauraAbreu]

Every time I watch her videos I feel like I am watching a movie! I love everything about your Channel

[@Adam-uu2wh]

Hello beautiful 😍👱 thank you!👍👏👏👌🌷🌹🌼

[@justinewhite-hadley3138]

Woooow....again you have captured Pure Magic. The sounds are heavenly. You see the truest beauty in Everything and want to save it. I just love you and feel honored to see the world thru your eyes. The fires here have forever changed the footprint of our Valley too. Soooo many treasures are just gone. In a blink. Not to mention people's homes. We have to protect our beloved towns. Thank you for sharing this and bringing awareness. Hugs from Napa ♥️

[@earlwest3502]

You are an angel- so gently beautiful- love your canine companion & friend also. Bless you forever!!

[@yellow_flash813]

😊😊 watching your videos in this rural area living a simplistic lifestyle makes me feel happy for some reason

[@kentuckylady7344]

What an inspiring video! Your words hit home with me as much as your art. I live in a very small river town. Although we do not have a beautiful rural setting such as yours, I love the quaint hominess of being able to walk to the neighborhood church or small grocery store. I love that we live right across the Ohio river from Cincinnati and can catch a REDS baseball game, BENGALS football game or Cincinnati Opera or Orchestra when we want. But my little town is losing to the big towns around us too. We lost our post office a few years ago. Our fire department has had to merge with the town next to ours in order to survive. Your video has inspired me to volunteer on one of the many committees the mayor of our town has been asking the citizens to join. I used to be very active in my town, but at age 67 I thought I would sit back but your video made me see there is no time for that. Thanks.

[@deborahfaithreiki]

Thank you for having the courage to speak out!!