Living through the recent (and ongoing) devastation of Helene in western NC, I have seen first-hand the futility of trying to be a silo and go it alone. Community is not only the spice of life, but a necessity of it.
FINALLY, someone said it. I have left so many homestead "channels" because of the Doom and Gloom! The only way to survive a catastrophe is to band together and create a community. A group of people with different skills, with the same goals. I am 54, I can no longer do what I used to do in my 20's. Arthritis, exhaustion, lack of assistance, makes for a very tough life. And knowing I consciously chose this way of life at one time,... I just shake my head. With age comes wisdom. And now I am semi self reliant, I have friends who are semi self reliant, and we all know we can depend on each other for what ever is needed. Weather that be emotional, mental or physical assistance.
Jess from Roots and Refuge Farm has a similar outlook on homesteading. If you don’t follow her you might want to check her out. She’s very positive and uplifting.
@@mountainsandmayhem739best homesteading message I have seen ever. Now go vote not out of fear but for community that serves one another and honors one another.
Me too, except that I'm 63 and my husband is 74...AND we never had children. So while we've done a great job working hard, living frugally and now having a relatively large tract of land where we're building our homestead, etc, we're clear that a strong, nurturing, reliable community is our answer to a good life in our old age. Who wants to live alone anyway?
I grew up farming and ranching. It is a lifestyle, it is a community. It is not to be taken lightly and done on a whim. I appreciate your words today, the honesty of doing it because it is a purpose in your life. We do not garden, raise livestock, preserve food etc because a doom scenario - we do it because we can, and we love it. Thank you again.
@@PazLeBon Fear is unsustainable and can only motivate in the short-term for poor or deteriorating results - this is not the same as purpose. When fear is used on the farm, it can harm the health of the animals and cause more work than you needed or give you bad produce. When used in your town or community, it will make your relationships shallow and sow distrust. When used at home, it will harm everyone around you. All will see diminishing returns and burn out. Fear is not purposeful, it's short-sighted.
Anne, my respect for you just increased exponentially. More than twenty years ago, I made the conscious decision to avoid "news" outlets that seemed geared to keeping us frightened, angry and ignorant - probably the smartest thing I ever did. I'm now mostly surrounded by otherwise decent people who have self-radicalised to the point where they seem to want to burn it all down. Knowing there are folks like you in the world keeps me from despair. Keep doing what you're doing, and God bless you.
It’s not just animals. I don’t know where it comes from, but I recently heard, “No one should be alone with a crying baby.” We have atomized our community to the point that we do hard things alone and we just aren’t meant to do that. We started as communities with specializations, and we specialized ourselves into complete isolation.
Things started falling apart soon after the industrial revolution because that is when the unit of production was extracted from the home and sent far away in factories/mines/etc. That is when money started becoming the most important thing, and any action or activity not doing that became devalued... hence why house work (and traditional women work) started to be seen as "not real work" and became entirely taken for granted. Time spent with family? Time spent on hobbies? Time spent in nature? Everything not producing profit for a corporate overlord was increasingly seen as less important. It's not truly government that is the enemy. Large societies do need governments of sorts. The problem is the big corporations and billionaires who bribe governments and push for them to work for their best (financial) interests at the cost of society's best interest. The more corrupt a government becomes by those wealthy elites? The more money they can siphon from the working class, and the bigger and stronger they grow... and the cycle continues in that direction. Ultimately they become leeches on society, socializing their personal corporate projects AND the consequences of the destruction they cause, while privatizing any profit made! A few handful of monopolies, for example, control much of the global food trade! They get to squeeze both farmers and consumers to death, while oftentimes also leaving paths of destruction in poorer countries where they exploit both land and locals.
@@kated3165 I didnt intend to assert that governments were to blame for the fall of things. In fact, I’d put far more blame on the ever increasing societal pressure to push the easy button and favor short sighted, short term, selfish/self-serving rewards over short term sacrifices in service of long term gains for both self and community. Few things that are instant/easy offer much in the form of long term positive movement.
I have found that going back to my original reasons. The fact that I LOVE this life, that I love old fashioned living, that I love nature and being in sync with it. That is what has kept me going past the burn out. Burn out is real, but if you’re doing this because you love it, because it’s your calling, you can keep going. Fear is a horrible motivator… I’ve been through all that as well, feeling the need to be self sufficient. Now I’ve just come back to doing what I love because I love it. If the world falls apart, it does. But I’m not living like it’s going to anymore.
My mom used to tell me that the best cure for loneliness is service. You expounded on that so well. We need people in our lives, we need community to thrive and to shine. Blessings on you and yours Anne of All Trades!
Tears in my eyes watching the last few minutes!!! In today’s world everything is so fear based, especially with things heating up in an election year. Anne continues to be a beacon of light & hope for us all. What a beautiful reminder that fear will never win but love & purpose always will. 🤍
I'm an introvert, but I'm an introvert in a community. Nowhere through history was one person supposed to do everything on their own. "It takes a village" is about more than just raising children, it's about mutual support.
"Long term motivation requires something far more powerful than fear, that's a sense of purpose. You don't get purpose from fear." Whewww I needed to hear that today!!
Deeply appreciate this video, and your take on the homesteading movement. Having grown up in a Farming family and Community, moved to town, and now back into regenerative agriculture, it is refreshing to see some truth telling that isn’t so common on these channels. I find it fascinating that a lot of homesteaders and preppers rail against the government, but almost no one talks about the corporations that have co-opted all of our systems, including our trust, our creativity, and our Institutions. We throw stones at the government, but give these huge multinational, corporations, many of whom are much larger than governments, a free pass. It doesn’t make any sense, especially since corporations are beholden to private shareholders and the government, at least ostensibly, is us. We are it. So if our government has been co-opted by avarice and greed, that’s on us. The price of freedom is eternal vigilance.
Appreciate how you call out the reality and practicality of self-sufficiency in being part of a community. Fear creates silos. Learning how to be a part of a community in a purposeful manner is something we all need to become better at.
I have stopped watching several TH-camrs because they focus so closely on self, on fear, and on proselytizing their own particular faith. (I think faith is a marvelous and wonderful thing, but I also don't want to be beaten over the head with someone's take on it, especially when it's in service of bolstering that fear-and-scarcity mindset.) Thank you so much for this compassionate and generous video.
I wish the core message of this video could be spread beyond just farming. I am so tired of hearing "I don't need people" or seeing people going it alone. It's amazing how having other people around makes life such much easier to handle.
Wisest video yet. You had me in tears. My parents raised me, ready for a socioeconomic collapse, and they worked at doing it alone. I was burnt out by the time I grew up and left home with no social skills. So I've always known the self sufficiency model, as presented from the 70's until now was a lie. Being called a hippie, when people didn't, wouldn't want to hear or understand, my parents were not hippies, but back-to-the-landers and there is no glamour in that lifestyle. Thank you for your genuine reflection 💕
I love this video. I am so glad you came into my world. I am now approaching my 7th decade. I struggle with on one hand wanting to be left alone, and on the other, the reality that I can't live in isolation. I have stopped watching so many channels because of the fear mongering. But I have found a few , like you , that speak to need for community and living with purpose not fear. Knowing your background story gives me more to admire about you. Keep speaking your truth.
Oh Anne, as a traditional British farmer’s wife this resonated on a level only other agricultural families can relate to. Really rather emotionally impactful. Thank you. Farming is, when surrounded only by your own land, naturally very isolating. Years ago farmers were seen as Nobel land gentry. In the UK many people are so disassociated from where their food comes from, that they neither understand or respect the farming communities around them. I love my life but it is also relentless. You said you need a purpose but you also need a passion to endure the highs, lows and physical and mental exhaustion of farming. It’s a way of life, not just a job. A way of life I truly adore. I see so many people dream of this type of existence, without realising just how tying it also is. We are truly custodians of the land and our commitment to maintaining good animal husbandry for our livestock, ensuring they lead the best lives they can whilst they’re here. We aren’t self sufficient at all, and neither do we claim to be. I’d love to have more of an open community here, like you do there. Farming is viewed very differently here though, which is a shame. I love all that you do. Thank you for sharing your journey with us ❤
I can't speak for others, but I feel it's about the feeling of exploitation in modern life. Yes, farming is hard work. But working 3 jobs just to stay afloat isn't? If you're doing nothing but eating, sleeping, and working, while all the benefits of your labour go to strangers, then how can farming possibly be worse? Even if you continue to do nothing but eat, sleep, and work, the purpose of doing it for your own benefit and the benefit of family and friends makes a difference.
@ personally the issue is that the sort of community that was had in farming villages 50-60 years ago has all but been lost due to societal changes in the UK. We seem to be a nation that either wants to keep themselves to themselves, or expects something for nothing. Neither of these philosophies go hand in hand with building a community. Trying to make changes is met with distrust and cynicism by those around you. We aren’t working all the hours of the day but it’s impossible to take holidays or have sick days when you have animals. You simply have to get on with it. That’s more what I meant. We live a simple existence and aren’t struggling financially. Our farming was scaled back to address the work/rest balance more for our family but it still doesn’t mean you can have a day off from tending your animals. I’m not complaining. I’m just saying that often times people outside of our way of life simply don’t understand how tying agriculture is. The perk of that is being surrounded by nature and finding the joy in that. Not everyone wants to travel the world…
Thank you for posting this. More people need to take it to heart. I am tired of fear driving everything and everyone. I refuse to live my life that way.
Wow! This hit me hard. For a long time I have been wanting to grow my own food and found myself isolated instead of finding a community… also… not making enough money to have my own place, I’ve been living in other’s homes and none of them share my love and respect for the environment. I am so happy you found your people and a community to grow together. I have hope that soon I will find my own. Thank you so much for sharing this video. With all the natural disasters happening around us, it is paramount to remember that our connection to the earth and the power of community are what will elevate our experience through life ❤
Community Is so important! Together we are stronger. Absolutely love this message, we try to remind people how important it is to build a community so we are not trying to do everything alone. Thanks for this important message beautiful we love and appreciate you ❤
YES!!! You go girl. I’m a grandma. My grandparents were original authentic homesteaders. They were in the hills of Tennessee. We would, as kids, spend our summers with grandma and grandpa and I was always so amazed with how they lived. They milked the cows, slopped the hogs, and us kids would collect the eggs every day. The chickens just ran around and roosted in the 3 sided garage like structure grandpa built. They were fed vegetable scraps from preparing meals, 3 a day. (Huge spreads each meal) Grandpa drew water from a well beside the house which was just a pipe in the ground and a well pipe bucket. We went to the outhouse. The slop for the hogs was meal leftovers and dried corn I believe. I helped grandma churn butter and rub sage. I’ve strung tobacco. Us kids would stomp down the hay in the wagon, horse or mule drawn, while grandpa pitchforked it up. (After we got home from there, store bought milk tasted like water.) Country hams hanging in the shed. It’s a beautiful way of life. A physical way of life for sure, much hard work involved, but boy did you always sleep so well. Neighbors ALWAYS helped neighbors. They all depended on each other. It molded the way I live. I’ve always had food put back. I’m always ready for any emergency that could happen. Thank you!
OMG! I am sitting at work and was taking a break looking for homesteading videos after purchasing 10 acres in Az. I am sitting here almost in tears! I completely resonate with everything you had to say. I just want to live this life more than anything right now. Being a country girl from CA this life is how I grew up. I now want this life for my girls. I am starting out with a vegetable farm and really want goats and chickens. Thank you so much for posting this video!!
Anne, thank you! Well said! We thought the same. I, personally, wasn't interested in the doom and gloom side of self-reliance or prepping. My grandparents immigrated to one of the thirteen colonies to have a better life. As a child, I was taught many things since they were born in the 1800s. Along with the many chores (they had a root cellar) helping your neighbor pick tomatoes, grapes, figs etc...was one of the many things that moulded or influenced my way of thinking today. I'm grateful and fulfilled. 😉 👍 ❤
This video hits so hard! You are absolutely right about community and finding people who are going to be there for you. I am the product of farmers for many, many generations. I grew up in this way of life. We always planted more, hunted more, raised more not so that we could have an overabundance but because we shared so much with our family and friends. Even from a young age I remember everyone getting together to do all sorts of things involving farm life. The good times and the bad. These are some of my most treasured memories.
Did farm for 30 Years. Many days with 16 hours, now I am homesteading on a small scale and I still have a lot of work. I am 73 years old and would like to see young people coming to the farm and start this grazy life, too.
I'm here listening to this video while washing dishes, struggling to keep my small apartment habitable, while I'm studying for university as hard as I can, not even taking summer break off. I'm working so hard so that one day I can be a productive part of a strong and close community that works together, raises kids together, lives together, and relies on each other. What I'm trying to say is that it's very hard to wash dishes and rñcry at the same time! I feel your feelings, and I see that you feel mine! I'm happy you found your community, and I hope I find my own soon.
SO agree. There is sustainability with working with in your community and leaving fear out of it. I am just getting started on doing some mild homesteading but its more about removing my reliance on a grocery store for my food supply. My wife and I have been moving away from eating processed foods and looking at getting back to basics. I still work a regular job. But I know myself well, and when I retire I will need something to work at or I will be a grump. Love the site and your energy.
I feel the same way! Also in Washington! I wish we could have a place like your square dance but we’re a gay couple and one of us is Asian so I think we would stick out like a sore thumb at that square dance and my wife probably wouldn’t feel safe.
Hi Ann! I'm following you getting inspired to make my own mini farm outside of Saint Petersburg, Russia) For now making a foodforest on my hectar. Wish you all the best! Hope you come to visit us someday😊
New subscriber!! What an amazing video. Self-sufficiency has been on my mind. My dad died in June and we’ve been back and forth to my moms 5-acre property in Oklahoma trying to help her get her bearings on her own. I’m so grateful to get this perspective now, as we’re on the precipice of doing some of the homesteading things. Thank you!
I can't love this video any more! ❤ Thank you for being so open with your life and your heart. You remain a blessing to your family (2 and 4 footed), friends, local and online community.
Thank you for making that statement about fear being a major motivator for a lot of people in the self-sufficiency movement and dispelling some misconceptions about it. “No purpose from fear” I love it so much I subscribed! Do it for the joy of it is what I say and how I try to live.
Anne, I'm glad you came out and made this video. Just had a conversation, with a man who grows big bountiful amounts of food. It was for his mom. She's passed. It's his sole purpose to give it all away. Even at 65 , he's still fighting out life. Makes me think. I'm a seed saver. Food grower. Conservationist. Food supplier. Caretaker. Stewart of the land. Ahh me.
Thank you for this video, it has really hit me hard! I live in northern MN and I am trying to do it ALL! My husband helps on some things but this is my thing not his. It is so hard and I get so discouraged when I keep failing. I admit that I did want to become self sufficient out of fear. I always feel that I am running out of time to get this right...but I can't do it alone anymore. I am 60 years old and every year the work gets more exhausting, but I love the feeling of being able to provide for my family so I keep trying.
I agree wholeheartedly with you. No man is an island. My husband and I moved to MN thinking that wed would find that community. Did not happen. My husband became ill and has passed away. I am now alone. There us no community here. Now I am unable to move because of prices on land. It is a devastating realization that if you need help with something or are injured, that noone us there for you. We tried. We got involved with church and community but what happened was as long as we continued to do, we were accepted. The minute my husband became ill and needed around the clock care, everyone disappeared. They did not even come to visit with him or me. I am fed up with users. We thought that we had a good community connection until we didnt. How do you trust after that? How do you trust yourself in finding that connection when you have screwed up so royally? I have never vern a needy person and am very independent. Like you multiple skills and people around here find that very off putting. I do things around the farm that women should not be doing, according to them anyway. Like you with woodworking, running a chainsaw, helping with births, building barns etc. making me persona non gratia. Apparently I should not be trying to be a man. I am told often enough that women are not strong mentally or physically to do that type of work. Not sure what species they are but I was made mentally and physically different I guess. Live your podcast. It fits in so much with my lifestyle. Lol but you have taken it a step further. I do not have large stock anymore. Not enough land. Downsized the animals when my husband became ill because I could not do it all. I am slowly starting to rebuild.
So sorry to hear that. I can understand although never been married. It’s hard to be a bit different and find your people - I’m glad we have TH-cam channels like Anne’s ❤
All for one and one for all. This is how humanity survives, especially in tragedies. It is our natural response, not greed. Greed is taught (& technically it’s legalized in law by placing the individual rights to profit higher than the human right to exist for all). The fear to trust people often breaks down to areas where injustices occurred at an individual’s expense and another’s greed. There is a natural element of self preservation, but we are all born in a one for all all for on need to survive, not all my needs and screw everyone else. A baby would die or be mistreated being raised this way. So naturally we care for another’s life equal to our own to ensure the survival of the species. Important facts of life that get shot down by more barbaric thinking and I just wanted to be sure it was included in your message here. 💗
Thank you for this message Anne. I am about 2 years into my homesteading journey. I have had the privilege of sitting in your class the last 2 years in CdA Idaho. Last year I had a wonderful conversation with your mom while you were chatting with people. She is so sweet! Anyway, thank you for sharing your struggle, vision, and triumph with us. It's wonderful that you were able to go to Tennessee.
Best episode yet! I recently moved into an intentional tiny home agrihood community and not all but a few of my neighbors -- who I still love very much (many are fans of your channel :) -- are steeped in this negative culture of fear as the reason for deciding to move here. When did the land of the free and home of the brave become so enslaved by fear? Well, chin up! Your position that "you don't get a sense of purpose from fear," is gold. As a retired teacher, I grew tired of the ignorance of our connection to the earth, to agriculture. How can you make informed decisions when you have no clue as to how things work? I came to this new way of life as an opportunity to affect change through education, example -- you are providing that service to others and I love your channel for it.
Great video 👍 despite all the opinions and misinformation there's one thing for sure, the land will never belong to you , if you stop paying your annual usage fee the government will come seize your property and probably put you in jail .
People need people. We've gotten to be so used to everyone being on their own and no longer being a part of a community at this point in things. We rely 100% on external sources, and although the answer (for me) is not to rely only 100% on myself, but to simply make an effort to reduce my need from outside, not remove it entirely, is a worthwhile pursuit. I have chickens and get to share the eggs with folks around me, and that's great! It's been working super well for me with bringing more community into my life, and I'm trying to break down walls of people just stickin to themselves. One little gift of produce or eggs at a time...
This video jus hits different and makes u feel all tingly inside.. so much truth was shared watched it at night but def made my weekend, and will help me have a great week💚💚🇺🇸🇺🇸💯💯
What a great video in so many ways! Thank you for sharing so much of your life here! The story, the images, the struggles, the analysis of it all over your history, the changes of strategies to address the gaps, the faithfulness-daily faithfulness, the grit to work 3 jobs to hammer out your life together, the determination to go beyond your need to sleep when it was required, The joy of the sunset on a compost pile, The sweet celebration and pure fun of a real barn dance, The BEING part of being a human being, And delivering a glimpse into the WHY’s and your HOW’s and “what it looks like” of your journey. I pray that the Most High will continue to bless you and your family. Thanks again for so richly sharing. Dave in Montana
Faith over fear is my motto. Although I love off-grid, solar-powered, well-watered, gardening, tiny, country life, this year's sunflower field helped me realize that age has slowed me down. At 61, I don't have enough strength left to be fully self-sufficient. If the SHTF, I don't want to survive it and live like a pioneer. My people are at my church, but everyone lives far apart in our farming community--some an hour away. So, I no longer buy into the self-sufficient fantasy. I do what I can to be as self-sufficient as possible and thoroughly enjoy it without killing myself to reach some unreachable goal. I love your channel. Have a blessed, beautiful week.
I hear that. I’m 76, brain damage & recent back surgery & am so frustrating can’t do what I used to do. I’m finally accepting my limitations. Bless you & have a great day 👵🏻❣️
I call it autonomy. Im autistic and wish to be my own island. So far, spot on. I'm 75 and going strong . . . All alone. I don't NEED to leave my homestead . . . Got all my needs / wants met right here, right now.
Oh so well said! I have been listening to many “self sufficiency “ homesteaders and the fear that they are talking about and it grieves me. I never started homesteading out of fear but about helping others to share abundance. I just want to raise and grow sustenance and grow a community to share food, friends and feelings. Thank you for putting it into words .
100% true, Anne. This needed to be said. Even if I had no concerns about the quality and security of our food and government, it would still do what I’m doing because I enjoy it. I find purpose in the work and in the community.
I want that sense of belonging so much too. I hope so badly that I can find a homestead community. Can you make a video about finding those communities?!❤
I would be careful with a homesteading "community" and instead look for places where folks have some farms in their backyards. As she mentions earlier in the video, some homesteaders are very fear-based. Healthy homesteaders you can probably find at your local farmer's market.
absolutely beautiful video and I so agree! I moved to Central Portugal to start a homestead and am surrounded by an amazing supportive community. Also have a TH-cam channel to document my journey and realised early on that I would never be self-sufficient and that's okay.
And probably not your fault. It's becoming increasingly difficult to find people who have a non-selfish approach to everything. Many times it will require for you to physically move somewhere else just as they did.
Little homestead big dreams channel had a similar message today. Thankfully my husband is on board but most of our community and church don’t do what we do. I’ve learned so much from folks like you willing to share. ❤
You are spot on about a lot of the homestead channel content being very self-isolating. I'm "urban homesteading" on a 1/4 acre neighborhood lot and my goal is now to be resilient and a good resource for family and friends, not an island by myself. Homestead so you can give, not because you are afraid! That's great advice.
I'm so glad l found you!!! I really needed to hear your message. Your story is very inspiring. Thank you for putting together this video and sharing your story.
Anne, can you describe what this community looks like? Is it made up of all your neighbors? Friends from across town? People you know from the farmers market? In what ways do you interact?
Our family grew up on a 200 acre dairy farm, and you so hit the nail on the head!!!!! can't do it by yourself. Well, you could, but you know how that ends.❤ When our hay loft caught fire, our almost 200 y/o dairy barn burned to the ground. Our heard of 40+ milking Holsteins had to be milked that morning or we could have lost more than just a barn. The whole town got word and banded together, at midnight no less, to help us. By noon the next day, our herd were trucked to a dairy barn across town and we started milking. Bless every one of them.
One of the biggest lies is, modern people can't homestead. What they are is gardeners/farmers of varying degrees. I know it is a technicality, but it is the truth.
Ann....so many thanks for sharing these thoughts. I always thought this way and shared my POV to those homesteaders who tried to obtain self-sufficiency and resilience by my farm.is my fortress way. Unfortunately my voice as not being one of a successful community homesteader was ignored. Now I have your stance as an argument. My huge respect to you and your fellows for all of what you have been doing. hand shakes, hat tips, regards.❤
People seem to love the idea that they are going to mow down their neighbors with a machine gun when they come starving to their door. When one understands that humans require a community to survive, one realizes the homesteading is a way to have a community that survives.
Exactly! They’re like mine mine mine, stay away. Well eventually someone bigger, smarter will come to your door and take everything…you’ll be wishing you had community then!
"Every night, when the light hits right here....I'm like man, that is the most beautifully lit compost pile." lol You're so authentic. I love it! You see the beauty in a pile of waste. 😁
There's an adage "It takes a village". That's a crucial concept to grasp, because it simply is not possible to be completely self-sufficient as an individual or a family unit. The black smith isn't mining their own ore, for example. There isn't enough time in the day, week, month or year to do all of the things necessary for "self-sufficiency". Even if we pick One Thing in which to be "self-sufficient", it's a real challenge because the odds are there's some tool you rely on to do that One Thing that you cannot actually produce yourself. There needs to be a mutual support network with people that focus their efforts in certain areas and trade their product to others in the community for the things that they produce. With a network of some size it becomes possible to mutually provide a great many of the things that are needed within the community without anyone becoming hopelessly burnt out trying to "do-it-all".
What a great video Anne. I always wanted a full homestead, but fortunately had the wisdom to understand I can’t do it all. I don’t have a real support system, so why would I want to isolate myself further? Semi-sufficiency is the way to go! We all need community, even us introverts.
This brought me to tears. Alignment. What have I believed about community? Living in alignment with joyful others achieving individual, family team and community team goals that celebrate the miracle of existence on this great big beautiful planet. Gratitude
First of all, thanks for your video! It is appreciated! 👍 Doing something out of fear does not last long! Do something with passion and love and you will succeed! 😇
Girl, I knew there was a reason I really liked you. This video says it all. There is a segment of our population that live in fear 24/7/365 and I really feel sorry for them. The way you and your community are living is the real way of life. Not all of us have heard your calling but we can watch your videos and send our prayers and good wishes to you and your community. Love from Arizona
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Living through the recent (and ongoing) devastation of Helene in western NC, I have seen first-hand the futility of trying to be a silo and go it alone. Community is not only the spice of life, but a necessity of it.
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Without it there is also no purpose.
Man made weather - controlled and directed.
Why are they doing that?
Why are you thinking ‘man made Weather’? Did you hear that and became their echo?
FINALLY, someone said it. I have left so many homestead "channels" because of the Doom and Gloom! The only way to survive a catastrophe is to band together and create a community. A group of people with different skills, with the same goals. I am 54, I can no longer do what I used to do in my 20's. Arthritis, exhaustion, lack of assistance, makes for a very tough life. And knowing I consciously chose this way of life at one time,... I just shake my head. With age comes wisdom. And now I am semi self reliant, I have friends who are semi self reliant, and we all know we can depend on each other for what ever is needed. Weather that be emotional, mental or physical assistance.
Yes, well said! 😊
Jess from Roots and Refuge Farm has a similar outlook on homesteading. If you don’t follow her you might want to check her out. She’s very positive and uplifting.
@@mountainsandmayhem739best homesteading message I have seen ever. Now go vote not out of fear but for community that serves one another and honors one another.
Totally agree
Me too, except that I'm 63 and my husband is 74...AND we never had children. So while we've done a great job working hard, living frugally and now having a relatively large tract of land where we're building our homestead, etc, we're clear that a strong, nurturing, reliable community is our answer to a good life in our old age. Who wants to live alone anyway?
I grew up farming and ranching. It is a lifestyle, it is a community. It is not to be taken lightly and done on a whim. I appreciate your words today, the honesty of doing it because it is a purpose in your life. We do not garden, raise livestock, preserve food etc because a doom scenario - we do it because we can, and we love it. Thank you again.
"You don't get purpose from fear." is so succinct and perfect.
Tho I'd say you prob do :)
@@PazLeBon Fear is unsustainable and can only motivate in the short-term for poor or deteriorating results - this is not the same as purpose.
When fear is used on the farm, it can harm the health of the animals and cause more work than you needed or give you bad produce. When used in your town or community, it will make your relationships shallow and sow distrust. When used at home, it will harm everyone around you. All will see diminishing returns and burn out.
Fear is not purposeful, it's short-sighted.
Excellent point!
Beautiful Quote. Thank you!❤❤❤
yep, i always aim for the positive
Anne, my respect for you just increased exponentially. More than twenty years ago, I made the conscious decision to avoid "news" outlets that seemed geared to keeping us frightened, angry and ignorant - probably the smartest thing I ever did. I'm now mostly surrounded by otherwise decent people who have self-radicalised to the point where they seem to want to burn it all down. Knowing there are folks like you in the world keeps me from despair. Keep doing what you're doing, and God bless you.
❤ Mi too no news of anything one more left is internet to be given up.
I’m 30 and I practice the low information diet too. I’d say it’s the most instrumental thing contributing to my happiness.
It’s not just animals. I don’t know where it comes from, but I recently heard, “No one should be alone with a crying baby.” We have atomized our community to the point that we do hard things alone and we just aren’t meant to do that. We started as communities with specializations, and we specialized ourselves into complete isolation.
I love that saying.
Things started falling apart soon after the industrial revolution because that is when the unit of production was extracted from the home and sent far away in factories/mines/etc.
That is when money started becoming the most important thing, and any action or activity not doing that became devalued... hence why house work (and traditional women work) started to be seen as "not real work" and became entirely taken for granted. Time spent with family? Time spent on hobbies? Time spent in nature? Everything not producing profit for a corporate overlord was increasingly seen as less important.
It's not truly government that is the enemy. Large societies do need governments of sorts. The problem is the big corporations and billionaires who bribe governments and push for them to work for their best (financial) interests at the cost of society's best interest. The more corrupt a government becomes by those wealthy elites? The more money they can siphon from the working class, and the bigger and stronger they grow... and the cycle continues in that direction. Ultimately they become leeches on society, socializing their personal corporate projects AND the consequences of the destruction they cause, while privatizing any profit made! A few handful of monopolies, for example, control much of the global food trade!
They get to squeeze both farmers and consumers to death, while oftentimes also leaving paths of destruction in poorer countries where they exploit both land and locals.
Agreed 100%
@@kated3165 I didnt intend to assert that governments were to blame for the fall of things. In fact, I’d put far more blame on the ever increasing societal pressure to push the easy button and favor short sighted, short term, selfish/self-serving rewards over short term sacrifices in service of long term gains for both self and community. Few things that are instant/easy offer much in the form of long term positive movement.
Totally agree with this assertion
Yep!
You absolutely Nailed IT!!!!!!
I have found that going back to my original reasons. The fact that I LOVE this life, that I love old fashioned living, that I love nature and being in sync with it. That is what has kept me going past the burn out. Burn out is real, but if you’re doing this because you love it, because it’s your calling, you can keep going. Fear is a horrible motivator… I’ve been through all that as well, feeling the need to be self sufficient. Now I’ve just come back to doing what I love because I love it. If the world falls apart, it does. But I’m not living like it’s going to anymore.
My mom used to tell me that the best cure for loneliness is service. You expounded on that so well. We need people in our lives, we need community to thrive and to shine. Blessings on you and yours Anne of All Trades!
Tears in my eyes watching the last few minutes!!! In today’s world everything is so fear based, especially with things heating up in an election year. Anne continues to be a beacon of light & hope for us all. What a beautiful reminder that fear will never win but love & purpose always will. 🤍
Couldn't agree more
Well said!
Me too, tears in my eyes.
I'm an introvert, but I'm an introvert in a community. Nowhere through history was one person supposed to do everything on their own. "It takes a village" is about more than just raising children, it's about mutual support.
As a fellow introvert, I agree. I love introverts🙄😳😆🥰
I believe those days are over, I go at it alone. Don't expect nothing from anyone, peace
"Long term motivation requires something far more powerful than fear, that's a sense of purpose. You don't get purpose from fear."
Whewww I needed to hear that today!!
Deeply appreciate this video, and your take on the homesteading movement. Having grown up in a Farming family and Community, moved to town, and now back into regenerative agriculture, it is refreshing to see some truth telling that isn’t so common on these channels. I find it fascinating that a lot of homesteaders and preppers rail against the government, but almost no one talks about the corporations that have co-opted all of our systems, including our trust, our creativity, and our Institutions. We throw stones at the government, but give these huge multinational, corporations, many of whom are much larger than governments, a free pass. It doesn’t make any sense, especially since corporations are beholden to private shareholders and the government, at least ostensibly, is us. We are it. So if our government has been co-opted by avarice and greed, that’s on us. The price of freedom is eternal vigilance.
Appreciate how you call out the reality and practicality of self-sufficiency in being part of a community. Fear creates silos. Learning how to be a part of a community in a purposeful manner is something we all need to become better at.
I have stopped watching several TH-camrs because they focus so closely on self, on fear, and on proselytizing their own particular faith. (I think faith is a marvelous and wonderful thing, but I also don't want to be beaten over the head with someone's take on it, especially when it's in service of bolstering that fear-and-scarcity mindset.) Thank you so much for this compassionate and generous video.
I wish the core message of this video could be spread beyond just farming. I am so tired of hearing "I don't need people" or seeing people going it alone. It's amazing how having other people around makes life such much easier to handle.
Wisest video yet. You had me in tears. My parents raised me, ready for a socioeconomic collapse, and they worked at doing it alone. I was burnt out by the time I grew up and left home with no social skills. So I've always known the self sufficiency model, as presented from the 70's until now was a lie. Being called a hippie, when people didn't, wouldn't want to hear or understand, my parents were not hippies, but back-to-the-landers and there is no glamour in that lifestyle. Thank you for your genuine reflection 💕
Ouch. That is a very strong message.
Especially coming from a someone with your profile / experience.
Resonates deeply.
Thank you for sharing!
I love this video. I am so glad you came into my world. I am now approaching my 7th decade. I struggle with on one hand wanting to be left alone, and on the other, the reality that I can't live in isolation. I have stopped watching so many channels because of the fear mongering. But I have found a few , like you , that speak to need for community and living with purpose not fear. Knowing your background story gives me more to admire about you. Keep speaking your truth.
Very wise.... and refreshing to hear. "Modern life is transactional not relational.." nailed it.
Oh Anne, as a traditional British farmer’s wife this resonated on a level only other agricultural families can relate to. Really rather emotionally impactful. Thank you.
Farming is, when surrounded only by your own land, naturally very isolating.
Years ago farmers were seen as Nobel land gentry. In the UK many people are so disassociated from where their food comes from, that they neither understand or respect the farming communities around them.
I love my life but it is also relentless. You said you need a purpose but you also need a passion to endure the highs, lows and physical and mental exhaustion of farming. It’s a way of life, not just a job. A way of life I truly adore.
I see so many people dream of this type of existence, without realising just how tying it also is.
We are truly custodians of the land and our commitment to maintaining good animal husbandry for our livestock, ensuring they lead the best lives they can whilst they’re here.
We aren’t self sufficient at all, and neither do we claim to be. I’d love to have more of an open community here, like you do there. Farming is viewed very differently here though, which is a shame.
I love all that you do. Thank you for sharing your journey with us ❤
I can't speak for others, but I feel it's about the feeling of exploitation in modern life. Yes, farming is hard work. But working 3 jobs just to stay afloat isn't?
If you're doing nothing but eating, sleeping, and working, while all the benefits of your labour go to strangers, then how can farming possibly be worse? Even if you continue to do nothing but eat, sleep, and work, the purpose of doing it for your own benefit and the benefit of family and friends makes a difference.
@ personally the issue is that the sort of community that was had in farming villages 50-60 years ago has all but been lost due to societal changes in the UK. We seem to be a nation that either wants to keep themselves to themselves, or expects something for nothing. Neither of these philosophies go hand in hand with building a community.
Trying to make changes is met with distrust and cynicism by those around you.
We aren’t working all the hours of the day but it’s impossible to take holidays or have sick days when you have animals. You simply have to get on with it. That’s more what I meant.
We live a simple existence and aren’t struggling financially. Our farming was scaled back to address the work/rest balance more for our family but it still doesn’t mean you can have a day off from tending your animals.
I’m not complaining. I’m just saying that often times people outside of our way of life simply don’t understand how tying agriculture is. The perk of that is being surrounded by nature and finding the joy in that.
Not everyone wants to travel the world…
Thank you for posting this. More people need to take it to heart. I am tired of fear driving everything and everyone. I refuse to live my life that way.
Wow! This hit me hard. For a long time I have been wanting to grow my own food and found myself isolated instead of finding a community… also… not making enough money to have my own place, I’ve been living in other’s homes and none of them share my love and respect for the environment. I am so happy you found your people and a community to grow together. I have hope that soon I will find my own. Thank you so much for sharing this video. With all the natural disasters happening around us, it is paramount to remember that our connection to the earth and the power of community are what will elevate our experience through life ❤
Hey, I just wanted to let you know you aren’t alone. It sounds like you’re going through a hard time and you’re doing great! You’ll get there
Community Is so important! Together we are stronger. Absolutely love this message, we try to remind people how important it is to build a community so we are not trying to do everything alone. Thanks for this important message beautiful we love and appreciate you ❤
Isn’t the statistic that most homesteaders burnout after 3 years? I think you’ve nailed the reason why.
@@Consciouslightwarriors exactly what a 🐑 would say
YES!!! You go girl. I’m a grandma. My grandparents were original authentic homesteaders. They were in the hills of Tennessee. We would, as kids, spend our summers with grandma and grandpa and I was always so amazed with how they lived. They milked the cows, slopped the hogs, and us kids would collect the eggs every day. The chickens just ran around and roosted in the 3 sided garage like structure grandpa built. They were fed vegetable scraps from preparing meals, 3 a day. (Huge spreads each meal) Grandpa drew water from a well beside the house which was just a pipe in the ground and a well pipe bucket. We went to the outhouse. The slop for the hogs was meal leftovers and dried corn I believe. I helped grandma churn butter and rub sage. I’ve strung tobacco. Us kids would stomp down the hay in the wagon, horse or mule drawn, while grandpa pitchforked it up. (After we got home from there, store bought milk tasted like water.) Country hams hanging in the shed. It’s a beautiful way of life. A physical way of life for sure, much hard work involved, but boy did you always sleep so well. Neighbors ALWAYS helped neighbors. They all depended on each other.
It molded the way I live. I’ve always had food put back. I’m always ready for any emergency that could happen. Thank you!
I absolutely love everything about this video. I have found my online community to follow and am currently trying to find my in person community.
OMG! I am sitting at work and was taking a break looking for homesteading videos after purchasing 10 acres in Az. I am sitting here almost in tears! I completely resonate with everything you had to say. I just want to live this life more than anything right now. Being a country girl from CA this life is how I grew up. I now want this life for my girls. I am starting out with a vegetable farm and really want goats and chickens. Thank you so much for posting this video!!
Anne, thank you! Well said! We thought the same. I, personally, wasn't interested in the doom and gloom side of self-reliance or prepping. My grandparents immigrated to one of the thirteen colonies to have a better life. As a child, I was taught many things since they were born in the 1800s. Along with the many chores (they had a root cellar) helping your neighbor pick tomatoes, grapes, figs etc...was one of the many things that moulded or influenced my way of thinking today. I'm grateful and fulfilled. 😉 👍 ❤
This video hits so hard! You are absolutely right about community and finding people who are going to be there for you. I am the product of farmers for many, many generations. I grew up in this way of life. We always planted more, hunted more, raised more not so that we could have an overabundance but because we shared so much with our family and friends. Even from a young age I remember everyone getting together to do all sorts of things involving farm life. The good times and the bad. These are some of my most treasured memories.
Thank you for another honest and heartfelt video. Instead of calling it self sufficiency maybe we should say community sufficiency
Did farm for 30 Years. Many days with 16 hours, now I am homesteading on a small scale and I still have a lot of work. I am 73 years old and would like to see young people coming to the farm and start this grazy life, too.
I'm here listening to this video while washing dishes, struggling to keep my small apartment habitable, while I'm studying for university as hard as I can, not even taking summer break off. I'm working so hard so that one day I can be a productive part of a strong and close community that works together, raises kids together, lives together, and relies on each other.
What I'm trying to say is that it's very hard to wash dishes and rñcry at the same time! I feel your feelings, and I see that you feel mine!
I'm happy you found your community, and I hope I find my own soon.
At 3:00 I already love your message. Fear is a terrible guide.
Wow, what a beautiful perspective. I got all emotional. I'm so happy you found what you needed to keep going. ❤
Just wow! Possibly your best and most meaningful video yet. Your lessons can be applied to any life path.
SO agree. There is sustainability with working with in your community and leaving fear out of it. I am just getting started on doing some mild homesteading but its more about removing my reliance on a grocery store for my food supply. My wife and I have been moving away from eating processed foods and looking at getting back to basics. I still work a regular job. But I know myself well, and when I retire I will need something to work at or I will be a grump. Love the site and your energy.
Still looking for my people, but i dearly enjoy and learn from your videos! Thanks Ann, from a fellow Washingtonian ❤
Hey hey! I am from NW Washington 👊🏻🌻👊🏻
I feel the same way! Also in Washington! I wish we could have a place like your square dance but we’re a gay couple and one of us is Asian so I think we would stick out like a sore thumb at that square dance and my wife probably wouldn’t feel safe.
The feeling you get from sharing IS the good stuff ❤
Hi Ann! I'm following you getting inspired to make my own mini farm outside of Saint Petersburg, Russia) For now making a foodforest on my hectar. Wish you all the best! Hope you come to visit us someday😊
New subscriber!! What an amazing video. Self-sufficiency has been on my mind. My dad died in June and we’ve been back and forth to my moms 5-acre property in Oklahoma trying to help her get her bearings on her own. I’m so grateful to get this perspective now, as we’re on the precipice of doing some of the homesteading things. Thank you!
I can't love this video any more! ❤ Thank you for being so open with your life and your heart. You remain a blessing to your family (2 and 4 footed), friends, local and online community.
Thank you for making that statement about fear being a major motivator for a lot of people in the self-sufficiency movement and dispelling some misconceptions about it. “No purpose from fear” I love it so much I subscribed! Do it for the joy of it is what I say and how I try to live.
That's the most beautiful video I have ever seen. Thanks Anne, Penny and I always look for your videos.
Love you so much.
Anne, I'm glad you came out and made this video. Just had a conversation, with a man who grows big bountiful amounts of food. It was for his mom. She's passed. It's his sole purpose to give it all away. Even at 65 , he's still fighting out life. Makes me think. I'm a seed saver. Food grower. Conservationist. Food supplier. Caretaker. Stewart of the land. Ahh me.
Good morning beautiful SoilSista! ❤
Thank you for this video, it has really hit me hard! I live in northern MN and I am trying to do it ALL! My husband helps on some things but this is my thing not his. It is so hard and I get so discouraged when I keep failing. I admit that I did want to become self sufficient out of fear. I always feel that I am running out of time to get this right...but I can't do it alone anymore. I am 60 years old and every year the work gets more exhausting, but I love the feeling of being able to provide for my family so I keep trying.
I agree wholeheartedly with you. No man is an island. My husband and I moved to MN thinking that wed would find that community. Did not happen. My husband became ill and has passed away. I am now alone. There us no community here. Now I am unable to move because of prices on land. It is a devastating realization that if you need help with something or are injured, that noone us there for you. We tried. We got involved with church and community but what happened was as long as we continued to do, we were accepted. The minute my husband became ill and needed around the clock care, everyone disappeared. They did not even come to visit with him or me. I am fed up with users. We thought that we had a good community connection until we didnt. How do you trust after that? How do you trust yourself in finding that connection when you have screwed up so royally? I have never vern a needy person and am very independent. Like you multiple skills and people around here find that very off putting. I do things around the farm that women should not be doing, according to them anyway. Like you with woodworking, running a chainsaw, helping with births, building barns etc. making me persona non gratia. Apparently I should not be trying to be a man. I am told often enough that women are not strong mentally or physically to do that type of work. Not sure what species they are but I was made mentally and physically different I guess. Live your podcast. It fits in so much with my lifestyle. Lol but you have taken it a step further. I do not have large stock anymore. Not enough land. Downsized the animals when my husband became ill because I could not do it all. I am slowly starting to rebuild.
So sorry to hear that. I can understand although never been married. It’s hard to be a bit different and find your people - I’m glad we have TH-cam channels like Anne’s ❤
Thank you for sharing your experience, strength, and hope. Community is everything.
All for one and one for all. This is how humanity survives, especially in tragedies. It is our natural response, not greed. Greed is taught (& technically it’s legalized in law by placing the individual rights to profit higher than the human right to exist for all). The fear to trust people often breaks down to areas where injustices occurred at an individual’s expense and another’s greed. There is a natural element of self preservation, but we are all born in a one for all all for on need to survive, not all my needs and screw everyone else. A baby would die or be mistreated being raised this way. So naturally we care for another’s life equal to our own to ensure the survival of the species. Important facts of life that get shot down by more barbaric thinking and I just wanted to be sure it was included in your message here. 💗
So much wisdom in this video and in these comments.
Thanks for sharing your journey with us. You're such an inspiration ❤ I'm so happy you found your people. I'm still searching for my people 🙏
It takes a village.
That might be the one thing Hilliary Clintoon said that was ever correct.
@@pH7screwtube If you move away from folks who peddle fear, you might find she said some other correct things.
Thank you for this message Anne. I am about 2 years into my homesteading journey. I have had the privilege of sitting in your class the last 2 years in CdA Idaho. Last year I had a wonderful conversation with your mom while you were chatting with people. She is so sweet! Anyway, thank you for sharing your struggle, vision, and triumph with us. It's wonderful that you were able to go to Tennessee.
My mom is such a treasure. I’m so glad you got to meet her! Hope to see you at the conference this summer!
Self sufficiency is a misnomer ... we have abundance to thrive in not JUST survive
Best episode yet! I recently moved into an intentional tiny home agrihood community and not all but a few of my neighbors -- who I still love very much (many are fans of your channel :) -- are steeped in this negative culture of fear as the reason for deciding to move here. When did the land of the free and home of the brave become so enslaved by fear? Well, chin up! Your position that "you don't get a sense of purpose from fear," is gold. As a retired teacher, I grew tired of the ignorance of our connection to the earth, to agriculture. How can you make informed decisions when you have no clue as to how things work? I came to this new way of life as an opportunity to affect change through education, example -- you are providing that service to others and I love your channel for it.
Live that example and it will be infectious ❤️❤️
Great message, hope I can find belonging like you've paved out for yourself someday!
Great video 👍 despite all the opinions and misinformation there's one thing for sure, the land will never belong to you , if you stop paying your annual usage fee the government will come seize your property and probably put you in jail .
People need people. We've gotten to be so used to everyone being on their own and no longer being a part of a community at this point in things. We rely 100% on external sources, and although the answer (for me) is not to rely only 100% on myself, but to simply make an effort to reduce my need from outside, not remove it entirely, is a worthwhile pursuit.
I have chickens and get to share the eggs with folks around me, and that's great! It's been working super well for me with bringing more community into my life, and I'm trying to break down walls of people just stickin to themselves. One little gift of produce or eggs at a time...
This video jus hits different and makes u feel all tingly inside.. so much truth was shared watched it at night but def made my weekend, and will help me have a great week💚💚🇺🇸🇺🇸💯💯
A great message. Thank you for sharing.
What a great video in so many ways! Thank you for sharing so much of your life here! The story,
the images,
the struggles,
the analysis of it all over your history,
the changes of strategies to address the gaps,
the faithfulness-daily faithfulness,
the grit to work 3 jobs to hammer out your life together,
the determination to go beyond your need to sleep when it was required,
The joy of the sunset on a compost pile,
The sweet celebration and pure fun of a real barn dance,
The BEING part of being a human being,
And delivering a glimpse into the WHY’s and your HOW’s and “what it looks like” of your journey.
I pray that the Most High will continue to bless you and your family. Thanks again for so richly sharing.
Dave in Montana
Faith over fear is my motto. Although I love off-grid, solar-powered, well-watered, gardening, tiny, country life, this year's sunflower field helped me realize that age has slowed me down. At 61, I don't have enough strength left to be fully self-sufficient. If the SHTF, I don't want to survive it and live like a pioneer. My people are at my church, but everyone lives far apart in our farming community--some an hour away. So, I no longer buy into the self-sufficient fantasy. I do what I can to be as self-sufficient as possible and thoroughly enjoy it without killing myself to reach some unreachable goal. I love your channel. Have a blessed, beautiful week.
I hear that. I’m 76, brain damage & recent back surgery & am so frustrating can’t do what I used to do. I’m finally accepting my limitations.
Bless you & have a great day 👵🏻❣️
Ann, from Washington and I so remember your days outside of Monroe. Your growth and persistence in farming is just amazing. TY
I call it autonomy.
Im autistic and wish to be my own island.
So far, spot on. I'm 75 and going strong . . . All alone. I don't NEED to leave my homestead . . . Got all my needs / wants met right here, right now.
Oh so well said! I have been listening to many “self sufficiency “ homesteaders and the fear that they are talking about and it grieves me. I never started homesteading out of fear but about helping others to share abundance. I just want to raise and grow sustenance and grow a community to share food, friends and feelings. Thank you for putting it into words .
Beautiful, And such a salve in a time of fear.
100% true, Anne. This needed to be said. Even if I had no concerns about the quality and security of our food and government, it would still do what I’m doing because I enjoy it. I find purpose in the work and in the community.
I want that sense of belonging so much too. I hope so badly that I can find a homestead community. Can you make a video about finding those communities?!❤
I would be careful with a homesteading "community" and instead look for places where folks have some farms in their backyards. As she mentions earlier in the video, some homesteaders are very fear-based. Healthy homesteaders you can probably find at your local farmer's market.
absolutely beautiful video and I so agree! I moved to Central Portugal to start a homestead and am surrounded by an amazing supportive community. Also have a TH-cam channel to document my journey and realised early on that I would never be self-sufficient and that's okay.
I haven't found my people... yet.
And probably not your fault. It's becoming increasingly difficult to find people who have a non-selfish approach to everything. Many times it will require for you to physically move somewhere else just as they did.
Same❤
Little homestead big dreams channel had a similar message today. Thankfully my husband is on board but most of our community and church don’t do what we do. I’ve learned so much from folks like you willing to share. ❤
Probably the most inspirational video on TH-cam. Yeah, that hit hard
Love ya lady!! I'm in upper east Tennessee and sooooo enjoy everyday life. You inspire me.❤
This is a woman who only grows more beautiful as she gets older..... naturally.
You are spot on about a lot of the homestead channel content being very self-isolating. I'm "urban homesteading" on a 1/4 acre neighborhood lot and my goal is now to be resilient and a good resource for family and friends, not an island by myself.
Homestead so you can give, not because you are afraid! That's great advice.
I love your content!
I'm so glad l found you!!! I really needed to hear your message. Your story is very inspiring. Thank you for putting together this video and sharing your story.
Anne, can you describe what this community looks like? Is it made up of all your neighbors? Friends from across town? People you know from the farmers market? In what ways do you interact?
Random video popped up and i was mesmerized. Youre so authentic, honest. Thanks for a taste of perfection.
Keep smiling !
Your story and perspective is SO beautiful. Thank you for sharing!
Great lesson. Great advice.😊
Our family grew up on a 200 acre dairy farm, and you so hit the nail on the head!!!!! can't do it by yourself. Well, you could, but you know how that ends.❤ When our hay loft caught fire, our almost 200 y/o dairy barn burned to the ground. Our heard of 40+ milking Holsteins had to be milked that morning or we could have lost more than just a barn. The whole town got word and banded together, at midnight no less, to help us. By noon the next day, our herd were trucked to a dairy barn across town and we started milking. Bless every one of them.
Very inspirational.
Enjoyed the video Anne. Thank you for taking the time produce the videos. Take care and God bless.
One of the biggest lies is, modern people can't homestead. What they are is gardeners/farmers of varying degrees. I know it is a technicality, but it is the truth.
You gotta start somewhere
Ann....so many thanks for sharing these thoughts.
I always thought this way and shared my POV to those homesteaders who tried to obtain self-sufficiency and resilience by my farm.is my fortress way.
Unfortunately my voice as not being one of a successful community homesteader was ignored.
Now I have your stance as an argument.
My huge respect to you and your fellows for all of what you have been doing.
hand shakes, hat tips, regards.❤
People seem to love the idea that they are going to mow down their neighbors with a machine gun when they come starving to their door. When one understands that humans require a community to survive, one realizes the homesteading is a way to have a community that survives.
Exactly! They’re like mine mine mine, stay away. Well eventually someone bigger, smarter will come to your door and take everything…you’ll be wishing you had community then!
Where do you see that kinda stuff?
This felt like a chat with Mom giving supportive advice and I need that. Thank you!
"Every night, when the light hits right here....I'm like man, that is the most beautifully lit compost pile."
lol You're so authentic. I love it! You see the beauty in a pile of waste. 😁
So lovely. Thank you for that wonderful perspective.❤
There's an adage "It takes a village". That's a crucial concept to grasp, because it simply is not possible to be completely self-sufficient as an individual or a family unit. The black smith isn't mining their own ore, for example. There isn't enough time in the day, week, month or year to do all of the things necessary for "self-sufficiency". Even if we pick One Thing in which to be "self-sufficient", it's a real challenge because the odds are there's some tool you rely on to do that One Thing that you cannot actually produce yourself. There needs to be a mutual support network with people that focus their efforts in certain areas and trade their product to others in the community for the things that they produce. With a network of some size it becomes possible to mutually provide a great many of the things that are needed within the community without anyone becoming hopelessly burnt out trying to "do-it-all".
What a great video Anne. I always wanted a full homestead, but fortunately had the wisdom to understand I can’t do it all. I don’t have a real support system, so why would I want to isolate myself further? Semi-sufficiency is the way to go! We all need community, even us introverts.
I really enjoyed hearing about how you decided to move from WA to TN. Dreams really do come true if you focus on what you really want! ❤
you have a habit of knowing what i needs to hear and when. thank you
This brought me to tears. Alignment. What have I believed about community? Living in alignment with joyful others achieving individual, family team and community team goals that celebrate the miracle of existence on this great big beautiful planet. Gratitude
First of all, thanks for your video! It is appreciated! 👍
Doing something out of fear does not last long! Do something with passion and love and you will succeed! 😇
Girl, I knew there was a reason I really liked you. This video says it all. There is a segment of our population that live in fear 24/7/365 and I really feel sorry for them. The way you and your community are living is the real way of life. Not all of us have heard your calling but we can watch your videos and send our prayers and good wishes to you and your community. Love from Arizona
Thank you so much for your honesty! I learn a great deal from You!!❤❤