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Thank Jess. THANK YOU for sharing this. I started my own business a year ago, and not a day goes by that I don't hear that negative voice, but also have a knowing that God has led me right to this. Its hard. But I keep going. Because I believe God has called me to it, and he'll lead me through it. Your words are a blessing to my heart.
We all love you! We got your back girl! Your entire family is a blessing. Everything creeps in sometimes. I'm not listening to all that either, I'm moving within the next year still! Can't wait to hug your neck one day 😁
"God saw me fit to give me something that could help other people, and I just won't bury it. Ill do it scared if I have to, but I just won't bury it...." This is beautiful......
God saw fit for you to do something BIG and satan can’t stand it. He’s going to tell you that you can’t do it but we all know where our help comes from. Just thump Satan off your shoulder and continue on soldier girl. Love you Jess your such an inspiration to others.
Can I see a show of hands from all the folks with tears in their eyes that have determined they will do THEIR thing scared? Man, I am in awe of Gods ability to bring people beside us just when we need it to say just what we need to hear. Can I get an amen? Thank YOU, Jess that you are willing to bare yourself in such a vulnerable way, thank you for your obedience and know there are so many people that needed to hear this. Blessings.
I am woman hear me roar, Jess you are the embodiment of that statement. I am a 280 pound man and you drive my motivation to garden and succeed more than any drill sergeant I’ve known and I spent eight years in the army. Tears are fear being pushed from the body. You rock. Congratulations on all your endeavors. You’ve already won by trying. Most people never get that far. Now….. let’s grow some tomatoes 😘
I like that tears are pushing fear out the body. I get told by other women ‘ you are so strong’. My closest friend ‘you are stronger than you know’. I still have to remind myself where I have been to realize how far I have come. I’m going tell myself that. Thank you for sharing
“Actually some of you are kind of jerks, but I bless you anyway” JESSICA, you made me laugh out loud in the quiet of my room all you myself!😂🎉 I love you and I get you, and you get us😊 just smile and nod…some people think linear. You think globally hence full circle, “Roots and Refuge”! You go girl! YOU CAN DO THIS!!!
That quote stuck out to me too. Good call. This is a really admirable calling they have with how insensitive some people can be with their comments. You see it in so many different online platforms. I think the hope and courage that channels like this bring are so awesome. So cool how she even blesses the "haters".
Lol I was going to say the same thing!! Jess this Spring my Granddaughter is going to start a flower garden to sell cut flowers. She want to use the money to buy a pig to raise. I've been planting the seed for several years. Now at 16 she is ready to step outside her comfort zone. Of course I help her with migardener flower seeds. I share Jill and your videos with her. Thank you so much for encouraging the younger generation. ❤️
Jess, thank you for your inspiration and guidance. Three years ago, I was dreaming of a healthier happier self. Then we had a global pandemic and I fell down the you tube rabbit hole. God led me to Roots and Refuge, where you have led me, guided me, directed me, and asked me to dream bigger dreams. I saw my doc yesterday for the first time since before the pandemic. I'm off all prescription medications, my IBS is totally gone, I have more energy than most 30 year old people I know, and that's because I had a dream. During the pandemic, I dared to dream a bigger dream. I want a piece of land that is manageable for someone about to enter the 7th decade of life. I want this land to support and sustain my twins with autism who will always require a supported living experience - but I don't want them in a group home (what I've learned about those has no blessing attached at all). I want them caring for animals, and learning how to grow, harvest and preserve their own food. My younger twin LOVES the pressure canner. God bless him, because I can't budge it loaded anymore. My older twin is never happier than when we are sticking plants in the ground. They buy me gift cards for Home Depot for gift giving occasions because I can always get dirt or mulch or tools when I need them. And then they go with me, and do all the heavy lifting. I'm asking, in case you actually see this, that you join me in my continued prayers for a food forest for my sons - and a life experience that is beneficial to both their bodies and their souls. I bless you for inspiring a dream.
I too have an autistic son and struggle with the worry of what will happen to him when I’m gone. I’m in Kentucky what state are you in. I will be praying for you and for them! 😊
@@8thcelisabeth it makes more sense if u saw my hair lol. I have nearly floor length dreadlocks ...I feel I need to explain bc (MOST of the time) its assumed I'm a "Naughty Mom" * if ya know what I mean 🤣 🤣 😉 Happy New Year! ❤ ✌ ☮
I started reading the comments themselves and "thumbs up" them as I read. I want to "thumbs up" everyone on here. We are here together with our mentors, our teachers, our comic relief, our fellow homesteaders and newsreaders. Let's do this!! Thank you Jess. In everything you do someone somewhere learns something. Keep it going. I am here beside you. Love and BEST wishes, Javachickennurse
Jess, two years ago, just after the humiliation and devastation of an unwanted divorce after 40 years of marriage, I found your channel and made a decision to grow something beautiful just for myself, just for once. Do it scared has been the white knuckled mantra of the last two years of my life! You've NO idea the gratitude I have for you and your lovely family, your unflinching belief, and what you have brought to this broken heart. To the garden I go for my refuge, my regeneration, nurturing every bloom of new life. I thank you SO much for all you do for so many of us by your honesty and vulnerability, the education you so openly provide and the love and care you give to everyone around you. What an honest to goodness blessing this vlog was today!
This kind of video is making a bigger difference than you or I can imagine. You are sowing seeds Jess that your children and grandchildren will hear about in their later years! Godspeed my friend.
@@RootsandRefugeFarm Those words just came to me from my heart in the moment. I felt your soul in that video ... was genuinely blessed by this. Your welcome!
@toniastownhousegarden7878 AGREE 1000% 🥰 Sowing seeds all over but when they begin to show themselves it produces so much joy 😊 within my heart ❤️ love ya Jess 💞🕊
Jess, you have no idea how much I needed to watch this today. I lost my job this year, my wife had a major surgery on her back, and my drive for homesteading started to dwindle. I’m sitting here in tears right now. This is making me want to go for my desire to homestead and serve again. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. 🙏
Dear girl, you never cease to amaze me with your hugeness of heart, and vulnerability, your ability to put those feelings we all have into words, and then share those words, thoughts, expressions, and that love with us very lucky ones, your virtual family (and like family, some of us can be pretty thoughtless, and you are large-hearted enough to forgive them). For all you do and all you are, for all you share with us, THANK YOU, and bless you, Jess.
Started a flower farm on this same kind of courage last year. My husband is a disabled vet amd has had an extremely hard time finding and doing work. God really has been pressing to me for years that hard times for us were coming. I didn't start acting on it faster bc I was scared to. But I came to a resolve that something has to be done and I started what seemed like on a whim, my flower farm. And I dove in head first last year. Didn't have a bug financial success, however success isn't always measured in dollars. I learned tons! And one of the coolest parts was I was driving home from getting groceries and all of a sudden the name "Weeds and Whim" just hit me. Later that week I filed for my LLC. So plez pray for us. Last year was a trial yr and this year is the serious year.
Bless you. Wishing the very best for you and your family. Paying that you are not over whelmed by "Weeds and Whims", but that you find your footing and adventures and success being your family stability and strength. Plan for the worst and find the glory. Hugs!
Oh, Jess! I so needed this today! In 6 weeks we will sign papers selling our home! We have no idea where we’re going, what we’re going to do, but I know God is in control!! My husband and I are scared to death!! I feel God has been nagging at my heart to move, buy land, and go homesteading! We are in our early 50’s and w3 have no idea what we’re doing, but we are jumping into Gods plan!
I feel this so much! I am 59 and my husband is 60 and in 2021 we felt called to leave Oregon, a beautiful log home that I loved for 30 years where I raised 2 boys.. now grown. We wanted to get out of the rain and live somewhere with a longer growing season and milder climate. We chose NW Arizona to be closer to my 80 yo parents. It all happened so fast and fell in to place perfectly. Divine intervention! I was terrified and excited at the same time. We have a small 8 acre homestead and it's been an amazing and rewarding journey. It was the hardest and best thing we could do for ourselves in these crazy times. Follow your dreams! You can do it! 🙏🥰
I appreciate your courage and vulnerability. I just started a new business and 'Do it Scared' has just been granted a spot on my post-it note wall of motivational quotes. I wanted to let you know that you are an inspiration even beyond the gardening world. You're not an imposter you're a dreamer that had enough nerve to try. ❤
Wow this was so powerful. “Do it scared” T-shirt please! Watching your journey for awhile now and you always turn adversaries into a learning experience. Thank you for the inspiration ❤
JESS you are such an inspiration. I'm a 74 yr old semi-disabled guy who is told that I can't do this or that every day. I'm tired of it. If it wasn't for you & the other good folks I talk to I'd go nuts. Every tiime, I hear you say "I Bless You" at the end of your vlog, it makes my heart glad. One day, if we ever meet, I'll tell you why I continue to follow you & your wonderful family. And it's my turn, I Bless You.
Jess and Miah. You have a calling. The Lord ‘s callings are nearly always bigger than ourselves, but perfectly within His capability to use us. You are exactly the ones to do this. You’ve got this, because You live in Him.
Jess, you are an amazing person. I can proudly say that I am one of your rain drops. Just in 2022 I bred my goats, grew a rather successful garden in 4 raised beds and multiple pots (nearly all from seeds), taught a watercolor painting class at my church, birthed 5 baby goats (SCARED OUT OF MY MIND) and even had a small fall/winter garden. You were by my side every step of the way. I can’t wait to visit your shops! Keep your chin up and keep going, we’re rooting for you!
Jess, I see this as your "Esther" anointing. You (and your darling children, crew, and animals) are all called for such a time as this. You have a precious moral courage that is not only endearing, but altogether inspiring. "Today's missed opportunity is tomorrows regret"......said no Soward ever. I speak over you a blessing of tenacity in the face of long boring meetings, vision as the properties and businesses grow, health and wellness over your physical, mental, and emotional body, and quiet moments to hear all that your Beloved has for you and yours.
Girl everything speak is so true to the soul. I'm an old Native woman that learned early in life that the biggest things in life good or bad don't happen to us they happen for us cause we will make it happen and we will not only survive we will soar high. The burning you feel in your soul is audacious keep it lit. Bless you and your family for feeling the earth's heartbeat in your veins.
My 6 year old watched this with me- she said, "hey, that girl has your hoodie!" I said, "No, I have her hoodie!" You and I share a name, clothes apparently 🤣, and a dream. I'm a small business owner teaching people how to garden and grow food in upstate NY... and I feel like an imposter, often. Thank you for this video and being vulnerable- your words create ripples of encouragement for so many people. ❤️
Out here doing the damn thing, scared as hell and embracing the unknown for the sake of creating a new future while breaking generations of trauma and scarcity mindsets. I feel that I am the chosen one in my family to show current and future generations that abundance is just a daydream away. Thank you for creating such a great community to encourage just this. ❤
Jess you are actually glowing as you walk around and talk about the Exchange and the vision you have for that place! The excitement is palpable just watching. I don’t often comment but I swear you almost looked like a different person! In a great way❤ The love that you have for the project and the connection to community is so inspirational. We hope to emulate the idea on a much smaller scale. Thanks so much for sharing and keep up the wonderful work you are doing!! In another note, you me hair looks really great! Love you and your family ❤
Aw Jes you inspire this 60 yr old psychologist...I used to tell clients about a book "Feel the fear but do it anyway." you'd make a great therapist...my next scary thing...probably inviting the folks who want to learn into the quarter acre suburban backyard...or starting something with my Haitian neighbors... the poor are in the burbs n us northerners will spend big money on heat this year...time to teach the thing I love
Don't let it get you down. Y'all can do anything. I'm not a dewy eye 20 something. I'm a 60 year old mama. Sweetheart, fly baby fly. God has you. Blessing
Heavenly Father I lift Jessica up to you. Wrap her in your peace and comfort and protect her from the negative lies of the enemy. Go Jess, go!!! Do the good work.
The end of your video where you sat in your greenhouse and talked from your heart really spoke to my situation. I initiated a community garden through our church last year. We were able to get so much done including a rain catchment but with the hot dry summer it was a constant battle to haul water. The never ending onslaught of hungry deer, rabbits, groundhogs and raccoons constantly undid any progress. I've never been so physically and emotionally tired in my life. From the 12 raised beds we built and the three large tilled areas, fruit trees and bushes the yield was minimum although we were able to contribute to the church food pantry and give some away. I have felt like a failure. And somewhat cringe at thinking of what this next planting season will look like. But God told me to do this thing. I needed to hear what you said. That God saw me fit to give me something that would help other people so I'm just going to do it. I'm not going to bury it. Thank you. And I'm out here cheering you on.
Jess, you are such a light of hope in this world. Thank you for continuing to choose to do the hard things scared. And please, turn that into a sticker or shirt. More people need to hear and see those words spoken.
You said everything I needed today. I'm in the process of opening my dance studio and always feel so much like an imposter! It's a real feeling. But in the end, I always say walk into that fear! ..... and when you think your plan is set. The Lord's timing comes into play. It's such a fun process when you step back and look at the whole picture. Thank you for being you. Every time I click on your videos, you say things that hit me real well. :)
Jess.....I can't wait! I live 3.5 hours away and that is an easy drive. Thank you for doing it scared. Thank you for sharing your fear and your strength. You have inspired me to step out several times and 2023 is no different. We will be having the first seed swap at the county extension office....and it was because you planted a seed. I bless you!!!!
Jess we see you battling like we all do. Thank you for sharing and reminding us, that also experience these things, that we aren’t alone. Be encouraged that God is on our side!! ❤️❤️
You are so anointed my friend! I couldn’t wait to hear what you were going to say when you popped out and said it was emotional. Because I knew something big was coming through you to the rest of us. Thank you for choosing to turn on the camera and acknowledging the nudge from the Holy Spirit. So cool to see you guys sharing knowledge about growing the food, but also God’s steadfast Love. Huge hugs!!!
Going beyond your garden, going beyond your pantry...bought to my mind the wardrobe that lead to Narnia, all the amazing and wonderful characters, relationships and possibilities! Best we all buckle up the ride will be amazing!
My husband and I started a business 12 years ago (OMG, 12 YEARS!), and we were both working full time doing it after we got off work at our normal jobs. We worked on all of our days off. We put in blood, sweat, and tears (literally, ouch). It was SO HARD... but it worked. We had faith and we pushed forward even through the hard times, and today we are thriving. My biggest advice: don't follow money. Follow your passion. What you guys are doing is so amazing and worthwhile... I can't wait to hear your success story!!! 🥰
Jess, don’t forget that we are growing, literally and figuratively along side of you! We need you at the helm of teaching us how to grow food. We’ve been separated from the knowledge of how to for a long time. We are a village behind you! DO IT SCARED!
Jess, you were speaking to me personally. I am starting another adventure. I'm a hospice nurse. I've gone through Covid taking care of families through the hardest of times. I recognize that I need a change. I have a blog that I have struggled to stay attentive to. Just know you are reaching your listeners....your "friends" love and appreciate your emotions. Feeling it right along with you.
Fellow hospice Nurse here...gardening has become my sacred activity...something about my hands in the dirt and seeing so much life happening...fills my cup...good luck with your change. I pray it brings you as much happiness and comfort as I am sure you have given to the many patients and families you have served in your hospice career.
@@hollywilson9946 Thank you so very much. Yes hands in dirt is my favorite type of self therapy....love watching their garden grow....bless you for posting your response.
Jess, I'm speechless. All I can say is 'Thank You!'. For some it'll hit, and yes, it hit hard for me. First, I want to say that I drew you a beautiful colorful birthday picture with sunflowers, beautiful colors etc. to just give you a smile on your special day, but I never posted it because I wanted to send it privately and not publicly. I didn't want it to come across as 'everyone look what I did", but instead I felt this strong urge that you would enjoy it, it would make you smile and feel special on your special day 🎉. It's still sitting here, I can't figure out how, so I will post it in Insta but not say who it's for. If you are interested, you can check it out and you will know it's for you. If you are too busy, not a big deal, it was fun to make. You've given everyone great advice over the years, so Thank You. I'm certain you had an amazingly wonderful birthday, you deserve a great day! That said, I've been having God put it on my heart to do some pretty big things, and the message I keep getting is to just do it, just jump, leap of faith. Now your message is talking about the same thing. You inspire others by just being you. Just watching you talking about it makes me realize that it's real to feel that way, and your advice to "just Do the thing scared" hit home so much. There's so many things, so many changes, and I put my Faith in God and just did them, and I keep doing more, but they are getting to be bigger and bigger. I just keep having faith in God that He knows what's best. Thank you for sharing your message to reaffirm it. I wish I had a friend like you over here, such fantastic advice, caring nature, and that drive to make things happen! I have all the confidence in the world that you will achieve your dreams! You've got this! God's got your back girl! You and Miah are meant for great things. ❤️❤️
Jess, I think you can do ANYTHING! I believe in you. I have watched you for years now. YOU are one of the TH-camrs that inspired me to start a garden and next year I will have 37 raised beds and 22 fruit trees! I remember where you started and LOOK AT YOU NOW GIRL! God’s hand is on you. Success is different for everyone. I see you all fulfilling your goals. Your infectious GENUINE personality brings us all in and has created quite the online community (imo). Thank you for all you have taught me. I look forward to the day I can meet you in person. I bless you. ❤️
I love how you are so real and raw. God did see you fit to help other people and I am so thankful that you have the courage to walk in His path for you. You are making a difference in people’s lives that you will never see the fullness of until you are in His presence ❤️. Thank you so much for all you do!!!
Oh wow! You have me dreaming bigger, and I’m about to turn 70. I am so inspired by you and thank you for being so open and honest about your feelings. They make me feel braver and more capable of doing more than just coasting through the rest of my life. I pray God gives me decades more to make a difference. So, thanks!
Jess, you manifested what I needed to hear today. Please create a "Do it Scared" design. Bless your heart, Girl - you are super motivating in every way. Hugs and So much love
Dear Mrs. Roots & Refuge... I was already in tears when you said the ending may upset us. So glad no one died nor Bear!!! You still brought water wells to my eyes and streams down my cheeks. Yes, yr wrds were very helpful to me. I think this time of yr many of us r in a 'stale mate', and we need some extra wrds of wisdom to remind us of our dreams and to hold fast. ❤️ So THANK YOU! 🙏
I’m so grateful that you share your dreams, successes with us. I am in the waiting room, learning and watching and dreaming and it’s because you inspire! We are here rooting you on!
Jess, I love you!! I’m so excited to watch as God continues to do INFINITELY MORE through you than you could even dream. He keeps His promises, and He’s got you. ❤💗❤️
Sage words of advice Jess! Thanks for putting your vuln erabilty out there to give others the courage to "do it scared." You and Miah are such an inspiration to so many folks. Thank you and thank you again for all you put forth in the world!
Your desire to answer a calling to help others become self sufficient in a world where most rely on others to take care of them is a big task but you do it well. You and others who are putting yourselves out there are an inspiration to those of us who want to get back to the good old times of being responsible for ourselves and inspiring others to do the same no matter how small the scale.
This video reminds me of that phrase (I forget the exact wording) about a hero is not one who never feels scared but one who feels scared but acts anyway. I like Jessica’s phrase, “do it scared” and her explanation. Great vlog.
Jess you are an incredible woman of faith and I love your vulnerability and watching your joy at just doing whatever God calls you to do! Thank you for inspiring others. It’s a joy to behold. 🥰🥰
I have been here since the very beginning and I feel so blessed and encouraged by watching all your growth. You have inspired thousands and thousands of people act on their dreams and to dream bigger than they can comprehend. Please keep going!
AMEN Steph🙏 Jessica...THANK YOU for this video. Your true and honest emotion is one of your very BEST qualities. The path is never straight and our days can be hard. THANK YOU for allowing us to feel and see that in you. We bless YOU until next time💗 Continued prayers for you and your family. 🙏 💕😇
This was from the Lord! Out of the comfort of our familiar, one step at a time. Thank you for sharing. Sharing that you feel scared doing these too will help the rest of us know that we can do the big scary thing! ❤
You are such an authentic, real, and raw inspiration, Jess. You have helped me not get too discouraged on my Homesteading journey. We are late bloomers at 59 and 60 but we're making it happen. I totally get the Do it Scared thing. We sold our home of 30 years, left careers, family and friends to take a huge leap of faith in an unfamiliar state because we felt lead by God to do so. The most terrifying and exhilarating thing I've ever done. God bless you....God bless us all! We're going to need it in 2023! 🙏💖🕊🥰
That was a powerful sermon. You can't really help people if you are not willing to be venerable sometimes. There is always profound wisdom to be gained in suffering. Love your channel.
Thank you, Jess, for your vulnerability and incredible faith. You definitely bless and inspire me with your videos. This one really spoke to my heart about so many things I feel God is speaking into my life. Yes, I will trust the Lord and do as many things as He leads no matter if I’m scared. “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all ways submit to Him and He will direct your paths.” Proverbs 3:5-6
I feel you! I am going to start my own garden design business. I am the worst about telling myself I can't do this. I am finally at a point, and I am 50, and I am doing it scared! I pray we all make this! Teaching first time home owners how to make their homes beautiful. What you are doing is even more important! You will do great!
Link up with good gardeners who can help people clean out the junk and start their new garden. Then we can maintain it. Even if it is a few business cards to harness out and tell them, we are not affiliated but call for estimates and pick who you like. I've heard so many people complain about trying to find people to provide these services. Good luck.
Thank you, thank you, thank you. I struggle with imposter syndrome all the time. It keeps me very isolated and in my head. Because of you and your inspiration I have dreamed big for the last couple years and achieved a lot in the last year- my own place with lots of land, growing garden, planted the start to an orchard, and a deep faith that my dreams and desires will be met. I even have confidence in my work that I struggled with before. I am doing the things but that nagging piece still stops me from sharing my story or my understanding. I hear you, I feel you, and I am honored to be part of the crowd that you share with.
We are taking over my family farm that has been really neglected. 200 acres. A historical barn that is falling down with minimal time to save it. A house that needs lots of cosmetics. We are only 25 and 26 years old. Plus all of the normal stuff and businesses that we already run. Boy, are we scared. But this is our dream. And we will go in scared but comfortable with being scared. Thanks for always hitting the nail on the head at the right time, Jess.
Thank you. Sitting at my worktable.. watching videos while I create. I shut down my jewelry business 4yrs ago. Restarted it this November. What you said just now really hit home. I have all the doubts, even though I know G-d gave me these gifts for a reason. Yes, I am scared.. but I'm doing it anyway. Thanks Jess. I can't wait to see what you build next. ❤️
Who do you think you are? If I may answer that nagging question in your heart, I know who you are to me. When covid hit and it all went to sh*t, YOU were there to teach me about heirloom tomatoes. YOU were there to show me the value of growing food. YOU were there to normalize and validate my aspirations and hopes, even dreams in vlogs, posts and books. We went from 2 tomato plants in pots on the patio to a garden my family and I built together that grows a ton of food and loveliness in just the last 4 years. YOU showed me how to look beyond the big box and grocery stores and buy local in season. (We are literally surrounded by farms in Amish country and I was going to the grocery store🤦♀️) YOU showed me how to preserve. You Jess, in your knowledge, poetic nature, vulnerability, wit and infectious laugh, helped me change how my family lives. More than that, your influence on me has affected those around me. You have sown so many more seeds than you'll ever know darling.
You've got this Jess!!! The only way you fail is by not trying at all. You're not failing, you won't fail. It's okay to be scared but just keep relying on HIM. God has blessed you and Miah in a mighty way, and HE loves that you dream and wants to honor it.
It is so hard to come to the edge of that ledge and take that leap instead of running back. You are so brave, Jess, and you help the rest of us be brave, too. :)
Ive watched your videos almost everyday for over a year now, and never comment on them. In fact I’m not sure I’ve ever commented on a TH-cam video. But I just needed to tell you how special this was to me. I struggle often with imposter syndrome, and feeling like a burden because I feel so strongly. I’ve been trying to decide about getting a certification and making a career change that would completely change my life for the better but have struggled with feelings like I don’t deserve it. What’s even crazier, I just learned how to crochet a few weeks ago and made my very first scarf with that EXACT yarn. I felt like this video was made just for me and I hope so many others felt the same. You’re such an inspiration to me and so many others, and your humility and vulnerability is what keeps people coming back for more, your garden is just a beautiful bonus. I’m in Ohio, and I hope when your store opens I can make the trip to share in your excitement and joy, because we are both deserving of great things and I thank you from the bottom of my heart for reminding me of that this morning ❤
Thank you Jess for sharing your vulnerable side with us!! I just want you to know how much I've learned from you and a couple other homesteading families. My body has been betraying me for years....with Rhumatoid Arthritis, I've had to endure many bone and joint reconstruction surgeries. I was to the point of giving up....UNTIL I saw one of your videos. Now.....three years later, and after another major surgery on this day one year ago ( fusion of my c5 thru c7) My body doesn't feel as much pain. This past summer I grew the biggest garden not just at my own home, but at my mom in laws as well! I grew enough food and started my own compost bins on top of caring for five acres all on my own! It's been 10 years of pure misery but this spring and summer was pure bliss because I can move!! Did I have to step back and ask for help from my husband because I wasn't allowed to lift, or twist for awhile??? Yes...and I hated every minute of it 😹😹😹 but I can do it ....and I'm looking very forward to starting up my two new very cheap greenhouses ( from one of your videos)full of food again in just a few short months. God just keeps on blessing....so I will keep on moving❤️❤️❤️ Thank you for reading this....I bless you
Losing my ability to just walk, and I’m still planning my garden for next season, even knowing I have a long recovery after an upcoming surgery. 😅You’re stubborn (what my family calls it) like I am. You’ll be okay. I like your saying, “Do it scared!” You’ll do great!
I remember listening years ago to a cd of Michael Card with several other artists. He said he had realized as he aged that “it is all about community “. I agree. I am finding that I need to fill my time reaching out to others. I taught a young teen girl today how to propagate a pothos plant. We filled a cute pot with potting soil I made using worm castings. Then planted the pothos stems. She was so excited! Community. Reach out to others. It is a blessing that comes full circle. Jess, you have blessed me with garden tips and inspiration. Thank you. ❤
Jess! You are enough 💕💕 The words you say are the words for all of us. We all need to hear it. Thank you, once again, for your brave, vulnerable words. They always touch me just at the right time and I use your stories to help me tell mine.
I am so excited for you. I have followed you throughout the pandemic and YOU and your family are my NORMALITY...yeh, it's scary but you're gonna be awesome. If I am having a not so good day I watch one of your videos and learn something I didn't know before or it helps me to remember how/why you do it the way you do. I don't have access to a garden but if I did...it would be crowded with plants because of you. Look at how you are helping all of us and the people in your area. I personally can't wait to see what you guys do. You are really showing your kids great stuff. They are learning that they have to actually WORK to make things happen...not just some entitlement. I am so proud of your farm...I act like it's mine. LOL. Sending blessings to you all. It's going to be great. Fear is the greatest reward...that means your doing something fantastic. Muahhh from California.
There’s a lot of things in life that have led me to where I am today. I’ve had to be stronger than I ever thought possible. Staying focused on something positive. Because people do messed up things sometimes. So I was thinking about surrounding myself with better things. I think it’s awesome that you have the vision and the drive to accomplish your dreams. So far my dream has been survival. I’m looking forward to retirement. (Hopefully) I never thought I would have injuries to deal with. And 8years of recovery ❤️🩹. I have time for hobbies now.😅 I just wanted to be healthy and eat decent food. I love to cook. And have been staying away from processed foods. No nutritional value. That’s why I think getting it fresh from my garden 🪴 is awesome. And I know what chemicals have been used. No additional preservatives or dyes. Taking my vitamins 😊 🎉❤ have a great day/night to all of you I also started getting into houseplants 🥰
Jess, you ARE God's gift to your family and to all of those you share with and encourage on a regular basis. Thank you for following God's leading and sharing your heart with all of us.
You are truly amazing and what an incredible passionate heartfelt positive message! You are expressing you’re self from the depths of your soul! The world needs your positive uncommon loving encouragement. so much for sharing your life and family with us❤
Hey Jess Girl.... You brought tears to my eyes and hope and joy into my heart with the simple and powerful words.."do it scared"....thank you to you and Jeremiah (I always hear "Sweet Miah" in my head) for being so brave and following your dreams. Big hug and love to you and your family and prayers for all those you love! Della Rose
I don’t have the words to express how much I needed to hear this today. Thank you Jess for sharing and being vulnerable. And I’m so thankful God saw you fit to give you something that could help other people, because you do help so many people, already…more than you will ever know! One thing I tell myself when I feel what you seem to be feeling today, is that “voice” that creeps up, it seems to creep up most just before something unbelievably amazing is about to happen. And I remember that…I’ve seen it. Those lies and that voice try to steal His truth, that you are more than capable and you are about to do something unfathomably wonderful ❤️ Much love sweet Jess! You’ve got this!!
God bless you! Don’t listen to that voice! It’s the devil trying to stop you! I have to battle it too sometimes. We love you and I hope that I will be able to come to see you when it’s all done!
Hello Jess and Miah Sowaeds and family. Hope you all had a good Christmas. I had a great, was I finally moved out of the Women's Shelter and into my own apartment December 15 just in time for Christmas. Happy New year good luck with all your new business projects. From Wendy Bertie in Toronto Ontario Canada a viewer
Brave enough to dream! Do it scared. I received all my seeds last 3 weeks from multi seed catalogs. I will bury those seeds, cultivate those seeds and feed my family from those seeds and gradually will be a little less dependent upon other resources. Baby steps... they make me feel gratefully blessed. ☮ 🙋♀️ 💜
Jess, WOW! Thank you for all the real, genuine encouragement. As you keep doing it scared, you are creating a ripple effect that affects people all over who are dreaming and my husband and I are some of those people. We bless your endeavors as you bless ours! We are in Nashville and we will have to come to SC to see this baby once it is born! Keep doing doing it scared! Because you will succeed!!!
I don't know if you'll ever see this but here it goes Jessica, I have emailed y'all a couple of time with no response but I want you to know, you've changed my life. So much so that my husband and I have tossed aside our perfectly comfortable and reliable life on the beach and moved to the mountains where we can buy a homestead and inflict change. It is where we have been called. I started gardening much like many others in the spring of 2020 but you quickly became a sister and a leader to me. I just wanted to say thank you. We moved here to Asheville last week knowing no one and my husband being the only income and I am pretty lonely and scared... But I'm going to do it anyway. We were made for this. We were called. I love you sister. For more reasons than you may know. Also, DO IT SCARED. if you don't make that your next Tshirt, I will 😜
Loving your progress and your awesome brain! I feel your words about perceiving Self. I do want to say though...there is no negativity to the word "overwhelm". Overstimulation can happen from happiness, too. I'm here to tell you. Always remember- It takes strength be be vulnerable. It's a beautiful thing. Thank you for sharing your more vulnerable thoughts and feelings. We have your back.
Wow, you nailed it Jess! Everyone who is believing the lie of the devil that "you can't do it, who do you think you are that you can make a difference", needs this message. You are a wise woman, given that wisdom from our God on high!
I felt this in my bones. What a “coincidence” that I have been struggling with all those voices this past month only to be here tonight not being able to sleep, just trying to convince myself that YES, I can! And this video comes up in my feed.
Jess, I have been watching you for the last couple of years and while I have never left a comment for you I can’t help but feel that it needs to be said. You are truly an amazing person. When I started watching you I was looking to grow my garden at home. You helped me find inspiration walking through your garden. When you moved and started from scratch I saw a family with big dreams and a ton of heart. I admire you. Seeing your family grow and listening to you share your dreams with everyone that watches your videos is beautiful. Thank you for encouraging and sharing your heart with us.
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Hi Jess, I block people at least once a day. So annoying!
I bless you! 🤗❤🤗🙏
My HERO!!!
Thank Jess. THANK YOU for sharing this. I started my own business a year ago, and not a day goes by that I don't hear that negative voice, but also have a knowing that God has led me right to this. Its hard. But I keep going. Because I believe God has called me to it, and he'll lead me through it. Your words are a blessing to my heart.
We all love you! We got your back girl! Your entire family is a blessing. Everything creeps in sometimes. I'm not listening to all that either, I'm moving within the next year still! Can't wait to hug your neck one day 😁
Jess I have reported only a few days ago. I knew you would not reach out like that so don't worry I've got your back.👍😊
"God saw me fit to give me something that could help other people, and I just won't bury it. Ill do it scared if I have to, but I just won't bury it...." This is beautiful......
So sweet....
Amen!!
God saw fit for you to do something BIG and satan can’t stand it. He’s going to tell you that you can’t do it but we all know where our help comes from. Just thump Satan off your shoulder and continue on soldier girl. Love you Jess your such an inspiration to others.
Thank you Jess 😊
This should be a cross-stitch sampler ❤, it’s so true and beautiful.
Can I see a show of hands from all the folks with tears in their eyes that have determined they will do THEIR thing scared? Man, I am in awe of Gods ability to bring people beside us just when we need it to say just what we need to hear. Can I get an amen? Thank YOU, Jess that you are willing to bare yourself in such a vulnerable way, thank you for your obedience and know there are so many people that needed to hear this. Blessings.
👏🏻
Amen, crying my eyes out. Love this sooo much
Ditto ... exactly!
AMEN!! AMEN!! AMEN!!
Respect from Africa 🇿🇦
I am woman hear me roar, Jess you are the embodiment of that statement. I am a 280 pound man and you drive my motivation to garden and succeed more than any drill sergeant I’ve known and I spent eight years in the army. Tears are fear being pushed from the body. You rock. Congratulations on all your endeavors. You’ve already won by trying. Most people never get that far.
Now….. let’s grow some tomatoes 😘
I like that tears are pushing fear out the body. I get told by other women ‘ you are so strong’. My closest friend ‘you are stronger than you know’. I still have to remind myself where I have been to realize how far I have come. I’m going tell myself that. Thank you for sharing
❤️🙏🏽
Well said! I came to the channel to learn how to grow tomatoes, and stayed for the encouragement! I cannot WAIT to start my tomato seeds!
@@lmullens75 I'll second that sentiment
💪👊👊
“Actually some of you are kind of jerks, but I bless you anyway” JESSICA, you made me laugh out loud in the quiet of my room all you myself!😂🎉 I love you and I get you, and you get us😊 just smile and nod…some people think linear. You think globally hence full circle, “Roots and Refuge”! You go girl! YOU CAN DO THIS!!!
I laughed too. Being truthful is the best!
That quote stuck out to me too. Good call. This is a really admirable calling they have with how insensitive some people can be with their comments. You see it in so many different online platforms. I think the hope and courage that channels like this bring are so awesome. So cool how she even blesses the "haters".
Lol I was going to say the same thing!!
Jess this Spring my Granddaughter is going to start a flower garden to sell cut flowers. She want to use the money to buy a pig to raise. I've been planting the seed for several years. Now at 16 she is ready to step outside her comfort zone. Of course I help her with migardener flower seeds. I share Jill and your videos with her. Thank you so much for encouraging the younger generation. ❤️
Jess, thank you for your inspiration and guidance. Three years ago, I was dreaming of a healthier happier self. Then we had a global pandemic and I fell down the you tube rabbit hole. God led me to Roots and Refuge, where you have led me, guided me, directed me, and asked me to dream bigger dreams. I saw my doc yesterday for the first time since before the pandemic. I'm off all prescription medications, my IBS is totally gone, I have more energy than most 30 year old people I know, and that's because I had a dream. During the pandemic, I dared to dream a bigger dream. I want a piece of land that is manageable for someone about to enter the 7th decade of life. I want this land to support and sustain my twins with autism who will always require a supported living experience - but I don't want them in a group home (what I've learned about those has no blessing attached at all). I want them caring for animals, and learning how to grow, harvest and preserve their own food. My younger twin LOVES the pressure canner. God bless him, because I can't budge it loaded anymore. My older twin is never happier than when we are sticking plants in the ground. They buy me gift cards for Home Depot for gift giving occasions because I can always get dirt or mulch or tools when I need them. And then they go with me, and do all the heavy lifting. I'm asking, in case you actually see this, that you join me in my continued prayers for a food forest for my sons - and a life experience that is beneficial to both their bodies and their souls. I bless you for inspiring a dream.
🙏🕊🤗
Amen 🤗
You GO!!!!
Praying!
I too have an autistic son and struggle with the worry of what will happen to him when I’m gone. I’m in Kentucky what state are you in. I will be praying for you and for them! 😊
"DO IT WITH JOY.
DO IT SCARED."
-Mrs. Sowards ❤
T-shirt please!
lol love your username!
@@8thcelisabeth it makes more sense if u saw my hair lol. I have nearly floor length dreadlocks ...I feel I need to explain bc (MOST of the time) its assumed I'm a "Naughty Mom" * if ya know what I mean 🤣 🤣 😉 Happy New Year! ❤ ✌ ☮
Right there is the next Roots and Refuge Tshirt ❤❤❤
I started reading the comments themselves and "thumbs up" them as I read. I want to "thumbs up" everyone on here. We are here together with our mentors, our teachers, our comic relief, our fellow homesteaders and newsreaders. Let's do this!! Thank you Jess. In everything you do someone somewhere learns something. Keep it going. I am here beside you. Love and BEST wishes, Javachickennurse
Jess, two years ago, just after the humiliation and devastation of an unwanted divorce after 40 years of marriage, I found your channel and made a decision to grow something beautiful just for myself, just for once. Do it scared has been the white knuckled mantra of the last two years of my life! You've NO idea the gratitude I have for you and your lovely family, your unflinching belief, and what you have brought to this broken heart. To the garden I go for my refuge, my regeneration, nurturing every bloom of new life. I thank you SO much for all you do for so many of us by your honesty and vulnerability, the education you so openly provide and the love and care you give to everyone around you. What an honest to goodness blessing this vlog was today!
This kind of video is making a bigger difference than you or I can imagine. You are sowing seeds Jess that your children and grandchildren will hear about in their later years! Godspeed my friend.
Wow this is a powerful encouragement. Thank you!
@@RootsandRefugeFarm Those words just came to me from my heart in the moment. I felt your soul in that video ... was genuinely blessed by this. Your welcome!
@toniastownhousegarden7878
AGREE 1000% 🥰
Sowing seeds all over but when they begin to show themselves it produces so much joy 😊 within my heart ❤️ love ya Jess 💞🕊
Agree!
Jess, you have no idea how much I needed to watch this today. I lost my job this year, my wife had a major surgery on her back, and my drive for homesteading started to dwindle. I’m sitting here in tears right now. This is making me want to go for my desire to homestead and serve again. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. 🙏
Dear girl, you never cease to amaze me with your hugeness of heart, and vulnerability, your ability to put those feelings we all have into words, and then share those words, thoughts, expressions, and that love with us very lucky ones, your virtual family (and like family, some of us can be pretty thoughtless, and you are large-hearted enough to forgive them). For all you do and all you are, for all you share with us, THANK YOU, and bless you, Jess.
Started a flower farm on this same kind of courage last year. My husband is a disabled vet amd has had an extremely hard time finding and doing work. God really has been pressing to me for years that hard times for us were coming. I didn't start acting on it faster bc I was scared to. But I came to a resolve that something has to be done and I started what seemed like on a whim, my flower farm. And I dove in head first last year. Didn't have a bug financial success, however success isn't always measured in dollars. I learned tons! And one of the coolest parts was I was driving home from getting groceries and all of a sudden the name "Weeds and Whim" just hit me. Later that week I filed for my LLC. So plez pray for us. Last year was a trial yr and this year is the serious year.
Best wishes!
I also have a disabled vet husband. It certainly has it's challenges, more power to you!
Love that name!
Praying for you!!! You’ve got this! Are you on you tube yet?
Bless you. Wishing the very best for you and your family. Paying that you are not over whelmed by "Weeds and Whims", but that you find your footing and adventures and success being your family stability and strength. Plan for the worst and find the glory. Hugs!
Oh, Jess! I so needed this today! In 6 weeks we will sign papers selling our home! We have no idea where we’re going, what we’re going to do, but I know God is in control!! My husband and I are scared to death!! I feel God has been nagging at my heart to move, buy land, and go homesteading! We are in our early 50’s and w3 have no idea what we’re doing, but we are jumping into Gods plan!
I feel this so much! I am 59 and my husband is 60 and in 2021 we felt called to leave Oregon, a beautiful log home that I loved for 30 years where I raised 2 boys.. now grown. We wanted to get out of the rain and live somewhere with a longer growing season and milder climate. We chose NW Arizona to be closer to my 80 yo parents. It all happened so fast and fell in to place perfectly. Divine intervention! I was terrified and excited at the same time. We have a small 8 acre homestead and it's been an amazing and rewarding journey. It was the hardest and best thing we could do for ourselves in these crazy times. Follow your dreams! You can do it! 🙏🥰
Good luck! I'm doing the same thing. 🙏
I appreciate your courage and vulnerability. I just started a new business and 'Do it Scared' has just been granted a spot on my post-it note wall of motivational quotes. I wanted to let you know that you are an inspiration even beyond the gardening world. You're not an imposter you're a dreamer that had enough nerve to try. ❤
Wow this was so powerful. “Do it scared” T-shirt please! Watching your journey for awhile now and you always turn adversaries into a learning experience. Thank you for the inspiration ❤
JESS you are such an inspiration. I'm a 74 yr old semi-disabled guy who is told that I can't do this or that every day. I'm tired of it. If it wasn't for you & the other good folks I talk to I'd go nuts. Every tiime, I hear you say "I Bless You" at the end of your vlog, it makes my heart glad.
One day, if we ever meet, I'll tell you why I continue to follow you & your wonderful family. And it's my turn, I Bless You.
Jess and Miah. You have a calling. The Lord ‘s callings are nearly always bigger than ourselves, but perfectly within His capability to use us.
You are exactly the ones to do this. You’ve got this, because You live in Him.
Jess, you are an amazing person. I can proudly say that I am one of your rain drops. Just in 2022 I bred my goats, grew a rather successful garden in 4 raised beds and multiple pots (nearly all from seeds), taught a watercolor painting class at my church, birthed 5 baby goats (SCARED OUT OF MY MIND) and even had a small fall/winter garden. You were by my side every step of the way. I can’t wait to visit your shops! Keep your chin up and keep going, we’re rooting for you!
Jess, I see this as your "Esther" anointing. You (and your darling children, crew, and animals) are all called for such a time as this. You have a precious moral courage that is not only endearing, but altogether inspiring. "Today's missed opportunity is tomorrows regret"......said no Soward ever. I speak over you a blessing of tenacity in the face of long boring meetings, vision as the properties and businesses grow, health and wellness over your physical, mental, and emotional body, and quiet moments to hear all that your Beloved has for you and yours.
Girl everything speak is so true to the soul. I'm an old Native woman that learned early in life that the biggest things in life good or bad don't happen to us they happen for us cause we will make it happen and we will not only survive we will soar high. The burning you feel in your soul is audacious keep it lit. Bless you and your family for feeling the earth's heartbeat in your veins.
Feeling the Earth's heartbeat in your veins. Wow. That is a great way to describe it.
My 6 year old watched this with me- she said, "hey, that girl has your hoodie!" I said, "No, I have her hoodie!" You and I share a name, clothes apparently 🤣, and a dream. I'm a small business owner teaching people how to garden and grow food in upstate NY... and I feel like an imposter, often. Thank you for this video and being vulnerable- your words create ripples of encouragement for so many people. ❤️
Out here doing the damn thing, scared as hell and embracing the unknown for the sake of creating a new future while breaking generations of trauma and scarcity mindsets. I feel that I am the chosen one in my family to show current and future generations that abundance is just a daydream away. Thank you for creating such a great community to encourage just this. ❤
Jess you are actually glowing as you walk around and talk about the Exchange and the vision you have for that place! The excitement is palpable just watching. I don’t often comment but I swear you almost looked like a different person! In a great way❤
The love that you have for the project and the connection to community is so inspirational.
We hope to emulate the idea on a much smaller scale. Thanks so much for sharing and keep up the wonderful work you are doing!!
In another note, you me hair looks really great! Love you and your family ❤
Aw Jes you inspire this 60 yr old psychologist...I used to tell clients about a book "Feel the fear but do it anyway." you'd make a great therapist...my next scary thing...probably inviting the folks who want to learn into the quarter acre suburban backyard...or starting something with my Haitian neighbors... the poor are in the burbs n us northerners will spend big money on heat this year...time to teach the thing I love
You are such a blessing. Great message. Walk forward in faith.
Don't let it get you down. Y'all can do anything. I'm not a dewy eye 20 something. I'm a 60 year old mama. Sweetheart, fly baby fly. God has you. Blessing
Heavenly Father I lift Jessica up to you. Wrap her in your peace and comfort and protect her from the negative lies of the enemy. Go Jess, go!!! Do the good work.
The end of your video where you sat in your greenhouse and talked from your heart really spoke to my situation. I initiated a community garden through our church last year. We were able to get so much done including a rain catchment but with the hot dry summer it was a constant battle to haul water. The never ending onslaught of hungry deer, rabbits, groundhogs and raccoons constantly undid any progress. I've never been so physically and emotionally tired in my life. From the 12 raised beds we built and the three large tilled areas, fruit trees and bushes the yield was minimum although we were able to contribute to the church food pantry and give some away. I have felt like a failure. And somewhat cringe at thinking of what this next planting season will look like. But God told me to do this thing. I needed to hear what you said. That God saw me fit to give me something that would help other people so I'm just going to do it. I'm not going to bury it. Thank you. And I'm out here cheering you on.
Jess, you are such a light of hope in this world. Thank you for continuing to choose to do the hard things scared. And please, turn that into a sticker or shirt. More people need to hear and see those words spoken.
You said everything I needed today. I'm in the process of opening my dance studio and always feel so much like an imposter! It's a real feeling. But in the end, I always say walk into that fear! ..... and when you think your plan is set. The Lord's timing comes into play. It's such a fun process when you step back and look at the whole picture. Thank you for being you. Every time I click on your videos, you say things that hit me real well. :)
My husband and I are potters. We are amazed everyday that people but our Pottery. It is always an amazing feeling.
You might "DO IT SCARED" but YOU WILL NEVER BE ALONE! WE ARE RIGHT HERE BESIDE YOU!
Jess.....I can't wait! I live 3.5 hours away and that is an easy drive. Thank you for doing it scared. Thank you for sharing your fear and your strength. You have inspired me to step out several times and 2023 is no different. We will be having the first seed swap at the county extension office....and it was because you planted a seed. I bless you!!!!
Jess we see you battling like we all do. Thank you for sharing and reminding us, that also experience these things, that we aren’t alone. Be encouraged that God is on our side!! ❤️❤️
You are so anointed my friend! I couldn’t wait to hear what you were going to say when you popped out and said it was emotional. Because I knew something big was coming through you to the rest of us. Thank you for choosing to turn on the camera and acknowledging the nudge from the Holy Spirit. So cool to see you guys sharing knowledge about growing the food, but also God’s steadfast Love. Huge hugs!!!
Going beyond your garden, going beyond your pantry...bought to my mind the wardrobe that lead to Narnia, all the amazing and wonderful characters, relationships and possibilities!
Best we all buckle up the ride will be amazing!
My husband and I started a business 12 years ago (OMG, 12 YEARS!), and we were both working full time doing it after we got off work at our normal jobs. We worked on all of our days off. We put in blood, sweat, and tears (literally, ouch). It was SO HARD... but it worked. We had faith and we pushed forward even through the hard times, and today we are thriving. My biggest advice: don't follow money. Follow your passion. What you guys are doing is so amazing and worthwhile... I can't wait to hear your success story!!! 🥰
Jessica you are amazing you have inspired so many people to reach for the stars never give up Love you and the family
She sure has. I wish I had the engaging personality Jess does! She was meant for what she does.
Jess, don’t forget that we are growing, literally and figuratively along side of you! We need you at the helm of teaching us how to grow food. We’ve been separated from the knowledge of how to for a long time. We are a village behind you! DO IT SCARED!
Jess, you were speaking to me personally. I am starting another adventure. I'm a hospice nurse. I've gone through Covid taking care of families through the hardest of times. I recognize that I need a change. I have a blog that I have struggled to stay attentive to. Just know you are reaching your listeners....your "friends" love and appreciate your emotions. Feeling it right along with you.
Fellow hospice Nurse here...gardening has become my sacred activity...something about my hands in the dirt and seeing so much life happening...fills my cup...good luck with your change. I pray it brings you as much happiness and comfort as I am sure you have given to the many patients and families you have served in your hospice career.
@@hollywilson9946 Thank you so very much. Yes hands in dirt is my favorite type of self therapy....love watching their garden grow....bless you for posting your response.
Jess, I'm speechless. All I can say is 'Thank You!'. For some it'll hit, and yes, it hit hard for me. First, I want to say that I drew you a beautiful colorful birthday picture with sunflowers, beautiful colors etc. to just give you a smile on your special day, but I never posted it because I wanted to send it privately and not publicly. I didn't want it to come across as 'everyone look what I did", but instead I felt this strong urge that you would enjoy it, it would make you smile and feel special on your special day 🎉. It's still sitting here, I can't figure out how, so I will post it in Insta but not say who it's for. If you are interested, you can check it out and you will know it's for you. If you are too busy, not a big deal, it was fun to make. You've given everyone great advice over the years, so Thank You. I'm certain you had an amazingly wonderful birthday, you deserve a great day! That said, I've been having God put it on my heart to do some pretty big things, and the message I keep getting is to just do it, just jump, leap of faith. Now your message is talking about the same thing. You inspire others by just being you. Just watching you talking about it makes me realize that it's real to feel that way, and your advice to "just Do the thing scared" hit home so much. There's so many things, so many changes, and I put my Faith in God and just did them, and I keep doing more, but they are getting to be bigger and bigger. I just keep having faith in God that He knows what's best. Thank you for sharing your message to reaffirm it. I wish I had a friend like you over here, such fantastic advice, caring nature, and that drive to make things happen! I have all the confidence in the world that you will achieve your dreams! You've got this! God's got your back girl! You and Miah are meant for great things. ❤️❤️
Jess, I think you can do ANYTHING! I believe in you. I have watched you for years now. YOU are one of the TH-camrs that inspired me to start a garden and next year I will have 37 raised beds and 22 fruit trees! I remember where you started and LOOK AT YOU NOW GIRL! God’s hand is on you. Success is different for everyone. I see you all fulfilling your goals. Your infectious GENUINE personality brings us all in and has created quite the online community (imo). Thank you for all you have taught me. I look forward to the day I can meet you in person. I bless you. ❤️
Malia jumping after showing off her beautiful scarf did my heart good ❤️ Nice job!!
I love how you are so real and raw. God did see you fit to help other people and I am so thankful that you have the courage to walk in His path for you. You are making a difference in people’s lives that you will never see the fullness of until you are in His presence ❤️. Thank you so much for all you do!!!
Oh wow! You have me dreaming bigger, and I’m about to turn 70. I am so inspired by you and thank you for being so open and honest about your feelings. They make me feel braver and more capable of doing more than just coasting through the rest of my life. I pray God gives me decades more to make a difference. So, thanks!
Jess, you manifested what I needed to hear today. Please create a "Do it Scared" design. Bless your heart, Girl - you are super motivating in every way. Hugs and So much love
Dear Mrs. Roots & Refuge...
I was already in tears when you said the ending may upset us.
So glad no one died nor Bear!!!
You still brought water wells to my eyes and streams down my cheeks.
Yes, yr wrds were very helpful to me. I think this time of yr many of us r in a 'stale mate', and we need some extra wrds of wisdom to remind us of our dreams and to hold fast. ❤️
So THANK YOU! 🙏
I’m so grateful that you share your dreams, successes with us. I am in the waiting room, learning and watching and dreaming and it’s because you inspire! We are here rooting you on!
Jess, I love you!! I’m so excited to watch as God continues to do INFINITELY MORE through you than you could even dream. He keeps His promises, and He’s got you. ❤💗❤️
Sage words of advice Jess! Thanks for putting your vuln erabilty out there to give others the courage to "do it scared."
You and Miah are such an inspiration to so many folks. Thank you and thank you again for all you put forth in the world!
Your desire to answer a calling to help others become self sufficient in a world where most rely on others to take care of them is a big task but you do it well. You and others who are putting yourselves out there are an inspiration to those of us who want to get back to the good old times of being responsible for ourselves and inspiring others to do the same no matter how small the scale.
This video reminds me of that phrase (I forget the exact wording) about a hero is not one who never feels scared but one who feels scared but acts anyway. I like Jessica’s phrase, “do it scared” and her explanation. Great vlog.
Jess you are an incredible woman of faith and I love your vulnerability and watching your joy at just doing whatever God calls you to do! Thank you for inspiring others. It’s a joy to behold. 🥰🥰
I have been here since the very beginning and I feel so blessed and encouraged by watching all your growth. You have inspired thousands and thousands of people act on their dreams and to dream bigger than they can comprehend. Please keep going!
AMEN Steph🙏
Jessica...THANK YOU for this video. Your true and honest emotion is one of your very BEST qualities. The path is never straight and our days can be hard. THANK YOU for allowing us to feel and see that in you. We bless YOU until next time💗
Continued prayers for you and your family. 🙏 💕😇
This was from the Lord! Out of the comfort of our familiar, one step at a time. Thank you for sharing. Sharing that you feel scared doing these too will help the rest of us know that we can do the big scary thing! ❤
You are such an authentic, real, and raw inspiration, Jess. You have helped me not get too discouraged on my Homesteading journey. We are late bloomers at 59 and 60 but we're making it happen. I totally get the Do it Scared thing. We sold our home of 30 years, left careers, family and friends to take a huge leap of faith in an unfamiliar state because we felt lead by God to do so. The most terrifying and exhilarating thing I've ever done.
God bless you....God bless us all! We're going to need it in 2023!
🙏💖🕊🥰
“I can do ALL things through Christ who strengthens me”!
That was a powerful sermon. You can't really help people if you are not willing to be venerable sometimes. There is always profound wisdom to be gained in suffering. Love your channel.
Thank you, Jess, for your vulnerability and incredible faith. You definitely bless and inspire me with your videos. This one really spoke to my heart about so many things I feel God is speaking into my life. Yes, I will trust the Lord and do as many things as He leads no matter if I’m scared.
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all ways submit to Him and He will direct your paths.”
Proverbs 3:5-6
Don't let anyone take your joy, do what your heart tells you and with God all things are possible. You guys are awesome God bless!
Mel Robbins’s just spoke at my work conference and her 5 second rule spoke to me and now I’m watching this. The world is speaking to me. Thank you🥰
I feel you! I am going to start my own garden design business. I am the worst about telling myself I can't do this. I am finally at a point, and I am 50, and I am doing it scared! I pray we all make this! Teaching first time home owners how to make their homes beautiful. What you are doing is even more important! You will do great!
Link up with good gardeners who can help people clean out the junk and start their new garden. Then we can maintain it. Even if it is a few business cards to harness out and tell them, we are not affiliated but call for estimates and pick who you like. I've heard so many people complain about trying to find people to provide these services. Good luck.
Oh sweet Jess, when you hear that voice,and you are praying, girl give it to God and do it scared. Sending you big ❤️
Thank you, thank you, thank you. I struggle with imposter syndrome all the time. It keeps me very isolated and in my head. Because of you and your inspiration I have dreamed big for the last couple years and achieved a lot in the last year- my own place with lots of land, growing garden, planted the start to an orchard, and a deep faith that my dreams and desires will be met. I even have confidence in my work that I struggled with before. I am doing the things but that nagging piece still stops me from sharing my story or my understanding. I hear you, I feel you, and I am honored to be part of the crowd that you share with.
We are taking over my family farm that has been really neglected. 200 acres. A historical barn that is falling down with minimal time to save it. A house that needs lots of cosmetics. We are only 25 and 26 years old. Plus all of the normal stuff and businesses that we already run. Boy, are we scared. But this is our dream. And we will go in scared but comfortable with being scared. Thanks for always hitting the nail on the head at the right time, Jess.
Thank you. Sitting at my worktable.. watching videos while I create. I shut down my jewelry business 4yrs ago. Restarted it this November. What you said just now really hit home. I have all the doubts, even though I know G-d gave me these gifts for a reason. Yes, I am scared.. but I'm doing it anyway.
Thanks Jess. I can't wait to see what you build next. ❤️
Who do you think you are? If I may answer that nagging question in your heart, I know who you are to me. When covid hit and it all went to sh*t, YOU were there to teach me about heirloom tomatoes. YOU were there to show me the value of growing food. YOU were there to normalize and validate my aspirations and hopes, even dreams in vlogs, posts and books. We went from 2 tomato plants in pots on the patio to a garden my family and I built together that grows a ton of food and loveliness in just the last 4 years. YOU showed me how to look beyond the big box and grocery stores and buy local in season. (We are literally surrounded by farms in Amish country and I was going to the grocery store🤦♀️) YOU showed me how to preserve. You Jess, in your knowledge, poetic nature, vulnerability, wit and infectious laugh, helped me change how my family lives. More than that, your influence on me has affected those around me. You have sown so many more seeds than you'll ever know darling.
😭😭😭♥️♥️ thank you 🙏
You've got this Jess!!! The only way you fail is by not trying at all. You're not failing, you won't fail. It's okay to be scared but just keep relying on HIM. God has blessed you and Miah in a mighty way, and HE loves that you dream and wants to honor it.
It’s me. I’m the person it made a difference for. Thank you for being vulnerable and sharing your heart. I’m gonna go do it scared now
It is so hard to come to the edge of that ledge and take that leap instead of running back. You are so brave, Jess, and you help the rest of us be brave, too. :)
Ive watched your videos almost everyday for over a year now, and never comment on them. In fact I’m not sure I’ve ever commented on a TH-cam video. But I just needed to tell you how special this was to me. I struggle often with imposter syndrome, and feeling like a burden because I feel so strongly. I’ve been trying to decide about getting a certification and making a career change that would completely change my life for the better but have struggled with feelings like I don’t deserve it. What’s even crazier, I just learned how to crochet a few weeks ago and made my very first scarf with that EXACT yarn. I felt like this video was made just for me and I hope so many others felt the same. You’re such an inspiration to me and so many others, and your humility and vulnerability is what keeps people coming back for more, your garden is just a beautiful bonus. I’m in Ohio, and I hope when your store opens I can make the trip to share in your excitement and joy, because we are both deserving of great things and I thank you from the bottom of my heart for reminding me of that this morning ❤
Thank you Jess for sharing your vulnerable side with us!! I just want you to know how much I've learned from you and a couple other homesteading families. My body has been betraying me for years....with Rhumatoid Arthritis, I've had to endure many bone and joint reconstruction surgeries. I was to the point of giving up....UNTIL I saw one of your videos. Now.....three years later, and after another major surgery on this day one year ago ( fusion of my c5 thru c7) My body doesn't feel as much pain. This past summer I grew the biggest garden not just at my own home, but at my mom in laws as well! I grew enough food and started my own compost bins on top of caring for five acres all on my own! It's been 10 years of pure misery but this spring and summer was pure bliss because I can move!! Did I have to step back and ask for help from my husband because I wasn't allowed to lift, or twist for awhile??? Yes...and I hated every minute of it 😹😹😹 but I can do it ....and I'm looking very forward to starting up my two new very cheap greenhouses ( from one of your videos)full of food again in just a few short months. God just keeps on blessing....so I will keep on moving❤️❤️❤️ Thank you for reading this....I bless you
Sweet Jess. I adore you. So glad I found you!! YOU CAN DO IT!! You and Miah CAN and WILL do ALL the things. 🌺
Losing my ability to just walk, and I’m still planning my garden for next season, even knowing I have a long recovery after an upcoming surgery. 😅You’re stubborn (what my family calls it) like I am. You’ll be okay. I like your saying, “Do it scared!” You’ll do great!
I'm so sorry to hear that! Godspeed for your lovely 2023 garden. What are you looking forward to growing most?
I remember listening years ago to a cd of Michael Card with several other artists. He said he had realized as he aged that “it is all about community “. I agree. I am finding that I need to fill my time reaching out to others. I taught a young teen girl today how to propagate a pothos plant. We filled a cute pot with potting soil I made using worm castings. Then planted the pothos stems. She was so excited! Community. Reach out to others. It is a blessing that comes full circle. Jess, you have blessed me with garden tips and inspiration. Thank you. ❤
Those feelings have kept us from making the leap into purchasing our first homestead. Thank you for sharing your heart.
Lovely, Malia. I never noticed how much you look like your Dad. Blessing to you all. Thank you for being the embodiment of leading by example.
Jess! You are enough 💕💕 The words you say are the words for all of us. We all need to hear it. Thank you, once again, for your brave, vulnerable words. They always touch me just at the right time and I use your stories to help me tell mine.
I am so excited for you. I have followed you throughout the pandemic and YOU and your family are my NORMALITY...yeh, it's scary but you're gonna be awesome. If I am having a not so good day I watch one of your videos and learn something I didn't know before or it helps me to remember how/why you do it the way you do. I don't have access to a garden but if I did...it would be crowded with plants because of you. Look at how you are helping all of us and the people in your area. I personally can't wait to see what you guys do. You are really showing your kids great stuff. They are learning that they have to actually WORK to make things happen...not just some entitlement. I am so proud of your farm...I act like it's mine. LOL. Sending blessings to you all. It's going to be great. Fear is the greatest reward...that means your doing something fantastic. Muahhh from California.
There’s a lot of things in life that have led me to where I am today. I’ve had to be stronger than I ever thought possible. Staying focused on something positive. Because people do messed up things sometimes. So I was thinking about surrounding myself with better things. I think it’s awesome that you have the vision and the drive to accomplish your dreams. So far my dream has been survival. I’m looking forward to retirement. (Hopefully) I never thought I would have injuries to deal with. And 8years of recovery ❤️🩹. I have time for hobbies now.😅 I just wanted to be healthy and eat decent food. I love to cook. And have been staying away from processed foods. No nutritional value. That’s why I think getting it fresh from my garden 🪴 is awesome. And I know what chemicals have been used. No additional preservatives or dyes. Taking my vitamins 😊 🎉❤ have a great day/night to all of you
I also started getting into houseplants 🥰
Being a visionary has had it hardships 😅 I keep it to myself
Thank you for sharing your dreams with us. The privilege of watching the process is priceless! Many blessings to you and yours 💜💜
Jess, you ARE God's gift to your family and to all of those you share with and encourage on a regular basis. Thank you for following God's leading and sharing your heart with all of us.
This will totally be a destination goal 😊
*Made it to sad part- I'M A SEED; thank you Lord for this family!
“Just do it scared” is absolutely the best alternative to “fake it until you make it” I’ve ever heard. This was truly incredible.
You are truly amazing and what an incredible passionate heartfelt positive message! You are expressing you’re self from the depths of your soul! The world needs your positive uncommon loving encouragement. so much for sharing your life and family with us❤
Hey Jess Girl.... You brought tears to my eyes and hope and joy into my heart with the simple and powerful words.."do it scared"....thank you to you and Jeremiah (I always hear "Sweet Miah" in my head) for being so brave and following your dreams. Big hug and love to you and your family and prayers for all those you love! Della Rose
I don’t have the words to express how much I needed to hear this today. Thank you Jess for sharing and being vulnerable. And I’m so thankful God saw you fit to give you something that could help other people, because you do help so many people, already…more than you will ever know!
One thing I tell myself when I feel what you seem to be feeling today, is that “voice” that creeps up, it seems to creep up most just before something unbelievably amazing is about to happen. And I remember that…I’ve seen it. Those lies and that voice try to steal His truth, that you are more than capable and you are about to do something unfathomably wonderful ❤️
Much love sweet Jess! You’ve got this!!
God bless you! Don’t listen to that voice! It’s the devil trying to stop you! I have to battle it too sometimes. We love you and I hope that I will be able to come to see you when it’s all done!
Hello Jess and Miah Sowaeds and family. Hope you all had a good Christmas. I had a great, was I finally moved out of the Women's Shelter and into my own apartment December 15 just in time for Christmas. Happy New year good luck with all your new business projects. From Wendy Bertie in Toronto Ontario Canada a viewer
Oh Jess. You look wonderful. Healthy. Makes me so happy to see. Keep being you. In a world of chaos , there’s you. Im so proud of you.
My boss always called his home Beulah Land. I loved it without knowing what it meant at first. I love seeing it on your channel now! ❤
Brave enough to dream! Do it scared.
I received all my seeds last 3 weeks from multi seed catalogs.
I will bury those seeds, cultivate those seeds and feed my family from those seeds and gradually will be a little less dependent upon other resources.
Baby steps... they make me feel gratefully blessed. ☮ 🙋♀️ 💜
*GAROTINHA TALENTOSA PARABÉNS ☀️👏🏻*
Jess, WOW! Thank you for all the real, genuine encouragement. As you keep doing it scared, you are creating a ripple effect that affects people all over who are dreaming and my husband and I are some of those people. We bless your endeavors as you bless ours! We are in Nashville and we will have to come to SC to see this baby once it is born! Keep doing doing it scared! Because you will succeed!!!
I don't know if you'll ever see this but here it goes
Jessica, I have emailed y'all a couple of time with no response but I want you to know, you've changed my life. So much so that my husband and I have tossed aside our perfectly comfortable and reliable life on the beach and moved to the mountains where we can buy a homestead and inflict change. It is where we have been called. I started gardening much like many others in the spring of 2020 but you quickly became a sister and a leader to me.
I just wanted to say thank you. We moved here to Asheville last week knowing no one and my husband being the only income and I am pretty lonely and scared... But I'm going to do it anyway. We were made for this. We were called.
I love you sister. For more reasons than you may know.
Also, DO IT SCARED. if you don't make that your next Tshirt, I will 😜
Jess might not read your comment, but myself and others have! You've chosen well, Ashville is so lovely.
@@8thcelisabeth thank you sweet friend
Loving your progress and your awesome brain! I feel your words about perceiving Self. I do want to say though...there is no negativity to the word "overwhelm". Overstimulation can happen from happiness, too. I'm here to tell you.
Always remember- It takes strength be be vulnerable. It's a beautiful thing.
Thank you for sharing your more vulnerable thoughts and feelings. We have your back.
Wow, you nailed it Jess! Everyone who is believing the lie of the devil that "you can't do it, who do you think you are that you can make a difference", needs this message. You are a wise woman, given that wisdom from our God on high!
I almost forgot to tell you Jess that after watching you crochet I started crocheting again and it brought me so much peace
I felt this in my bones. What a “coincidence” that I have been struggling with all those voices this past month only to be here tonight not being able to sleep, just trying to convince myself that YES, I can! And this video comes up in my feed.
Jess, I have been watching you for the last couple of years and while I have never left a comment for you I can’t help but feel that it needs to be said. You are truly an amazing person. When I started watching you I was looking to grow my garden at home. You helped me find inspiration walking through your garden. When you moved and started from scratch I saw a family with big dreams and a ton of heart. I admire you. Seeing your family grow and listening to you share your dreams with everyone that watches your videos is beautiful. Thank you for encouraging and sharing your heart with us.