Some friends of mine are in Marion, NC. The dad was visiting their oldest son in VA, and the teenage girls stayed home with their mom and grandmother for a fun girls week. Hurricane Helene happened and their farm has a small stream that turned into a raging river between theirs and their neighbors, houses. They heard screaming and went outside in the storm to realize that their neighbors house was being washed away with them still inside it. The girls got a rope and tied themselves to their own house since the river was going around their house and swam through it to grab their neighbors and pull them back to their house using the rope. Everyone is safe, thank God! But community is coming together more than we have seem in a long time and that's something I'm incredibly grateful for. ❤
What a scary nightmare! Brave girls! It all looks bad on tv and the news, but it’s even worse than they say, especially the death count. I’m from Marion, NC, so it caught my eye. I moved to the coast 2 years ago, but all of my family is still in Marion.
@@ericawhitfield9289 we live near Pensacola, FL but have family up near Lexington, SC. We are trying to move up that way as soon as we can. All of this breaks my heart. We have friends family all through the affected area, but thank the Lord, they are all okay.
@jess23sista ... What an amazing testament of bravery and love for their fellow neighbors (I was going to say "fellow man" but, well, you know.) I have heard of other amazing stories of communities coming together to pitch in and even nation wide. We are better and stronger than we think.💞
Jess!!! You gotta know about the MULES!! Mountain Mule Packers has been there from day one sending mules packed with stuff and doing rescues since Saturday. Please bring awareness to this AMAZING group of humans and animals!!! ❤
I guess I should say that we got sooo lucky. We are about an hour and a half outside of Asheville. We got a lot of rain but not really any flooding…yet anyway. Hopefully yall don’t get a bunch from the down flow either. 💜
@@TamaraMansfieldbookworm I can imagine they are one of the few ways to get supplies to some of the more remote hollers that have had roads washed out. Incredible animals.
I just read that 700 Canadian linesworkers have gone down south to help with repaires. That makes me a proud Canadian. 🍁🍁👍👍💗💗 Also very happy to hear the Hollars are getting their power back. Be blessed my Southern fam. I'm praying for y'all!
I have a short story that's not related to the current situation at all but one time we had scammers steal everything out of our bank account. The bank had everything in motion to get our money back but it still takes time. We were without any money for a little over a week and it was fine. We had everything we needed and could wait, but we ended up not doing our regular grocery run at the local small Amish grocer and when we didn't show they were worried and called. We explained the situation and they asked us to come up there and when we arrived they had bags of food for us that the whole family (lots of children) had run around their store collecting for us. Some necessities and some fun things like candy and chocolate for the kids. They just... gave it to us. It wasn't needed and they knew that, they just wanted to show us kindness and lift our spirits. I will never forget it. We were great friends with them before that and we continue to support each other in the ways we can. ♥Community that has your back has so much value, especially for the soul. I love you guys.
Thank you for sharing that story, it reminds anyone that hears it of how many people are good and kind. Even more important, I think it encourages people to be that giver and supporter - as much of a blessing it was for you, it was likely as wonderful for that family to share with another.
My 23 yo son is going from Texas to NC with men from his church to help. He works for Home Depot. They're giving him a huge load of donated materials and 2 weeks off. This is his joy to serve. I couldn't be more proud. And Home Depot is a fantastic company.
My husband who has had an estranged relationship with his Dad is finally reaching out. God is restoring relationships throughout my family. Prayers answered!
I live in Asheville (WNC) and all I see is the good in humans, right now. From the smiles of the gas attendants after waiting in the gas line for 2 hours, to the neighbors coming together to cut the 8 trees blocking our road, to the lineman working tirelessly to get all of our utilities restored, the law enforcement officers from other jurisdictions coming to help, the neighbors coming together to prepare community meals so no one goes hungry and to the Thousands of volunteers that have ascended on our tiny patch of paradise to help with search and rescue, food prep, spiritual guidance, bringing in much needed supplies, telecommunications, and just kind words and encouragement….we have seen the greatness of humanity. Thank you to all of you who are supporting us in your way. It means more than you know. This is hard and will be for a while, but it helps to know that there is more good in this world than bad. God bless each of you!!!! We are WNC strong -I type this as tears roll down my cheeks.
Hey Jess! I felt Jesus prompt me to let you know that you are making a profound difference. Your relentless hope even being a realist is a super fresh place.
Our Cajun Navy is the best. They put aside work, family, & the best fishing of the year to help those in need. It doesn’t matter what part of the country it is. Our guys are there to help
I saw a reel this morning about people in Big Hungry Gorge using ziplines across the river to pass supplies and fuel up the mountain to people that are otherwise unreachable. It just warmed my heart and gave me great faith in the resourcefulness and resilience of the people.
Today at a Loves in eastern Oklahoma, while I was standing in line waiting to be checked out, I witnessed the man in front of me pay for an elderly woman’s coffee. The smile on her face instantly made my day. He turned to her and said “you have a blessed day ma’am” and she was just speechless and full of gratitude. There is hatefulness out there but I truly, wholeheartedly believe the good people out weigh the bad. Tenfold. Love you our tender Jess ❤️
Jess, while my hubs and I were out of town, our 17 year old daughter had her first flat tire. Thankfully, a random stranger helped her by changing it for her! We were so grateful for that random act of kindness!
I saw Pinball Preparedness and Appalachia’s Homestead with Patara’s followers raise $200,000 for storm survivors and convoy from Maynardville to Newport TN with supplies! It was so heartwarming and emotional!
A miracle happened this week. My sister in law Maggie got a new kidney on Monday. She is recovering well. It was a long time in coming and suddenly it happened. Very blessed. Very grateful!
Billy at Permapastures Farm showed an organization that is helping themselves and their community. I donated what little I was able. Cut yourself some slack Miss Jess. You all are precious and now must navigate the future. Hugs and love❤
First and foremost our hearts ache for all those struggling in the wake of Helene! I just want to add that I live in Louisiana and am so very proud of our Cajun Navy and their willingness to respond wherever and whenever needed! I have no doubt they will work tirelessly to do what they can! ❤️
Over the weekend, both toilets in my house backed up. I hope that never happened to you; not pleasant. The cleanup was pretty daunting, and at 78, not an easy task. So I kinda felt sorry for myself. And then...my whole house wasnt flooded, I didn"t watch my house float away, my roads aren't closed, my electricity wasnt affected, I didnt lose someone I loved. I felt thankful for the dose of perspective and the true compassion it engendered in my soul. Yesterday morning, my realtor{from 7 years ago} left a gift at my door-pumpkin spice latte, a Kind bar, and pumpkin spice chap stick. So kind, so random, such a boost to see again all the sweetness in a world of turmoil. Blessings for each of you today.I value the atmosphere that you, Jess, continue to provide for us.
You asked about sharing a positive story… I would like to say for me.. it’s YOU… Ever since I have been watching your channel I get inspired .. I smile .. I laugh.. such a blessing to watch all that your family does. I enjoy your other channel as well and have made several recipes and have learned so much. I have learned how to live in the moment and enjoy what you have and feel truly blessed. Thank You Jess.. ❤
I agree with you Sally. Jess has been my light in the tunnel during the loss of my father-in-law, who was my garden buddy. I have health issues and own a business. When I crave community and garden, I come here to my friends.
Here in Northern Kentucky, I've seen several folks arranging convoys to gather supplies and travel down to the areas lost to the hurricane to provide food, clothing, pet supplies, etc. and to have boots on the ground helping in the search for the missing and stranded. "When I was a boy and I would see scary things in the news, my mother would say to me, "Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping."" ~ Mr. Fred Rogers
I’m in southeast Texas. One of our local pastors is rallying the community to donate much needed supplies. They are going to convoy up there and hand out the supplies to the people that need it. Also advocating for continuous prayers. To see people selflessly care about people they have never met warms me. I’m brining my donations tomorrow.
Hi Jess! I got 6 chickens this week (finally moved to at least a house with enough yard for them). I also took my sweet special needs baby to the cardiologist to find out if he had a hole in his heart or not. They said his heart is perfectly healthy. ❤
SOW THE LAND channel in NC had damage, no power/water for 5 days. Their attitude was so uplifting. They decided they would set up camp, outdoor kitchen, and think of it as an opportunity to improve those skills. Wonderful to know their young one was witnessing that. Also, Jason had built a rack of IBC totes with guttering which caught all that rain, so they had plenty of water for animals, bathing etc. that was great to see how planning/prep got them through.
Right now, the Cajun Navy is using all forms of transportation to get through the mountains to people for extraction, to deliver critical supplies including medications, and more. They are even using/ partnering with mule trains.
I have seen some amazing videos this past week on UA-cam regarding Helene. Whilst harrowing and heart wrenching it has also been amazing seeing such kind and amazing people in your community. I have discovered your channel and loved listening to you. What you say resounds in my heart. Praying for you. From a sister in the UK.
Hi dear one ❤( you warm my heart ♥️ often) Not helene related but about community coming together. My daughter’s best friend was widowed back in November.Her pension has still not been resolved. Very close to loosing her home. I reached out to our local legion, trying to find a solution. The commander. Immediately gathered her friends and started a fund raiser. I was in tears to learn about it. We live in one of the poorest counties in Arkansas and here it is, folks dropping g everything to help. We are soooo blessed, Jess! Hearts up! Garden , get rooted again. Today is a good day. We love ya guys and the values you share with us.
North Carolina News· Donnie Goodman- Got to share. These mountain people are some of the kindest and toughest people. They will survive. I have been packing supplies in on horseback and I had the opportunity to visit an elderly lady. She didn’t have a road out, no electricity and no running water. She was very quick to inform me that she had a spring in the woods. She refused to take any items I had in pack saddles telling me to give it to someone worse off. Then she looked at me and said “young man I have dinner about ready, would you like something to eat.” Even when she had lost a lot she still wanted to share what she had. Makes me proud to be one of these “hillbillies.
Saw Cajun Navy 2016 using mules to deliver medical supplies. It made me cry because I know the history of US Army mules and library pack mules. It worked then and it works now. (Between then and now is just plain sad what happened to the mules.) May there be kindness and respect for all creatures. Thanks for giving Cajun Navy 2016 a supportive shout-out. ❤
Today I loaded my car down with tents, sleeping bags, shampoo, body wash, toothbrushes, toothpaste, hand wash, bowls, paper plates, plastic cups, plastic forks, games for kids, napkins. Alot more. Plan on going to the store and get more. I couldn't make the first 18 wheeler truck leaving out today. But several ppl gave me information to meet up with 2 more 18 wheelers....thur Monday. Love it when a community pulls together.
I’m watching from Arizona, you have encouraged me and my husband to reexamine our preparedness. I’m not an emotional person, but I was in tears last night watching video of civilians flying their helicopters to save people in the mountains. These situations are a definite eye opener and my prayers have intensified for everyone directly affected by the destruction. Much love and sending prayers 🌻
My God's goodness moment came as I watched a pilot fly his brand new helicopter into the mountains to rescue and bring supplies to those in need. It's a story of selflessness & love.
Jess I have been watching many of the videos from people about their experiences and what they see with all the carnage that the hurricane caused and it has been people helping people, their neighbors, doing well checks on their mountain friends... It brings me to tears seeing the genuine caring of others from out of state bring truckloads with cases of water, food, and first aid to those in need. It is beyond beautiful. Thanks for sharing. I love you and your family. I bless you hun.
I'm a North Carolina girl born and raised. Between the ugliness of humanity aimed at my state and the folks suffering here plus grieving it's been incredibly hard not to completely fall apart. However, the amount of instant action I have seen from people in my state wanting to convoy supplies from the coast to the mountains, Cajun Navy, the Mule Packers, Nascar drivers using helicopters to fly in and out of zones, and the overall love and support coming in gives me some hope.
Hey Jess! I live in Michigan but my only child Elora (in Hebrew means light of God), she lives in Asheville NC, ground zero. She used her Jeep Cherokee to check on all her people, friends, coworkers. She drove to Chatlotte to get supplies for numerous households, fulfilling their list of needs. She kept in touch with me each day. When she called I had a list of information to share with her. I am so incredibly proud of my daughter! She put one foot in front of her other, kept perceiving and took care of others around her. I tell her I'm proud but it's ok not to be ok.
Watching people give so much of themselves to help others even though they were ravaged right along side. Putting the needs of their people ahead of themselves. Also, watching the pack mule teams head out to help. Makes my heart swell with that nugget of joy in the disaster. My prayers continue for all affected by Helene.
One of the things that I saw this week was a beautiful human being with no power or running water, livestock, and young children to take care of- taking the time out of her day to spread hope in humanity that sh*t is hard but it’s still very beautiful. It’s okay for things to feel hard while other people have had it harder. We are not all in the a same ship, but in the same ocean, and we are all allowed to have bad feelings. They are not weighed against one another. It’s good to be great-full, but also remember to show your children that what they(you) are feeling is relevant. ❤
Jess, when you asked people to leave positive comments about the good in human nature, I clicked on the comment section so fast my finger nearly burned off. I then spent an hour or more just reading story after story about kindness, generosity, and love for fellow humankind. My heart is full. Thank you for always living, seeing, and promoting the beautiful human traits. Watching your channel is such an uplifting experience, even when you’re experiencing the down times, your hope and optimism shine through like a beacon in the storm.💕
I suspect your minimal troll volume is because you don't do clickbait titles. Beau of the Fifth Column is much the same way. The bots are tuned to key on hate/fear subject lines. You have really good people commenting here compared to most of the content providers I subscribe to. Kudos to you for fostering this kind of environment.
This is 100% what it is! Clickbait, fear-based titles get clicks because they spark emotion in people. If people buy into the title and don’t get the outcome they expected, they become irritable and are more likely to leave negative comments.
I saw a tiktok this morning of lamancha goats loaded with packs, carrying supplies to the hard to reach communities. I immediately thought of you! Made my heart happy ❤
I live in upstate NY and lost my home, cars, memorabilia, etc. in a flood in 2011. I was a single mom and worked so hard to have a home for my son. It will forever be a whole in my heart but to this day I will never forget the community that helped me. My favorite and one that still makes me cry when I tell the story is while in the grocery store I ran into my hairdresser who came up to me and gave me a hug and said how sorry she was that I lost everything. A little elderly woman overheard this and came over and handed me $20 and said, "I have bad knees and can't help but please take this $20 and get some food for you and your son." As I'm typing this tears still surface. I will never forget that elderly ladies genuine kindness❤️
Hey Jess, my friend shared that her nephew drove 3 hours and walked 5 miles to find his grandpa. He lives in the mountains of NC! He got there and thankfully his grandpa was taking care of an 83 year old neighbor lady! Her nephew, grandpa and this lady started walking back to where he had to leave his truck, when another person showed up and was able to drive them. They were able to ford the washout and get out! Thankfully all are safe and the lady is being cared for! I was in tears when my friend shared the story! I hope you are cheered, because God has His angels everywhere! Peace and blessings! 🙏💖🤗😘
My story is about a woman, who has a UA-cam channel,……she’s genuine, and sensitive, and generous, and compassionate. She’s uplifting, and real, and…..well…..she’s just lovely and inspiring, and I cry with her, and laughter with her, and hope with her….. And I wish nothing but love for her and her family.
The Cajun Navy is beyond awesome! They rush to Texas anytime there is a natural disaster. They are incredibly helpful & in many cases life saving. Texas LOVES our neighbors in Louisiana!
My granddaughter and her fiancé were stuck in the mountains in NC and they were fine in their cabin. But couldn’t get out. They took videos of other cabins floating down a raging river that used to to be a small slow moving river. Trees downed and roads gone. The neighbors all got together and helped clear out trees and fix what they could to be able to get out. The community is showing so much support and care for each other.
Okay, you asked for happy stories, so here is mine. In the spring, I successfully started way too many tomato seedlings. I planted as many as I possibly could, then shared with family and friends. I even sold some at our local farmers market! I had several left, so I drove down the road and started knocking on doors. Either nobody was home, or they said they had enough tomatoes planted, or they didn't garden at all. I thought, well I have a favorite manager at my Walgreen's store, so I'll go and see if he wants some lovely tomato seedlings. I drove there, and he was off all week! My son's friend works at Lowe's, so I'll go there and see if she wants any. She doesn't garden. I was slowly walking back to my car, and telling God that if He knows of some way for me to bless someone with these tomato plants, to please let me know. I passed an old man with a cane, walking in to the garden area, as I was walking out. He wore a veteran's hat, and was hobbling along. I heard him ask the cashier if they had any Beefsteak tomato seedlings. She said that they did not have any of that kind left. He was so disappointed. I was elated. Guess what I had in my car? Yep! I said, "Sir, I have some Beefsteak tomato seedlings in my car, and I would be happy to give you some." He got a spring in his step, and met me at my car. He thanked me so many times, and tried to pay me. I didn't let him, of course. I thanked him for his service. I drove home that day with a happy heart! PS I got his phone number, so just in case I "accidentally" plant too many Beefsteak tomatoes next spring, I can call him.
Hi Jess! Here’s a positive story, though it’s not about the hurricane. I recently received a cancer diagnosis (in the breast, very small, excellent prognosis- but yes I realize this isn’t how most positive stories start, haha). One of my old students from a school that I don’t even teach at anymore found out. He reached out and told me, “your army is coming”, and boy he wasn’t kidding. Old students that I haven’t spoken with in 8-10 years have sent care items, showed up to take me on adventures (one group took me to a rage room and then out for margaritas, haha), and one old student who is now a nurse dropped everything to cook, clean, and get my son off the bus while I was in surgery. My son’s birthday was the day after surgery, so a group of old students showed up while he was at school, decorated the house, made his allergy-safe cupcakes, and then later took him to a carnival that happened to be in town. I am stunned and humbled at the support I have received from students that I never realized I had made that significant of an impact on. In all of this, I am reminded of Mr. Roger’s advice of looking for the good in all situations. It’s there, but it’s so tempting to become overwhelmed by the bad. I didn’t experience this particular hurricane, but Katrina directly hit my near-coastal hometown and we were without power, transportation, and all electric forms of communication for about 5-6 weeks. It was scary, but we grew through it and I am stronger because of it. It’s okay to feel down sometimes, so don’t feel guilty for that! But I know your family will continue to persevere. And just like I have recently learned, your positive outreach is far greater than you may ever realize, outweighing all the negative influences that are momentarily dragging you down.
I always think of the advice Mr. Rodgers said came from his mom. To look for the helpers, those people who drop everything to make a tragedy or difficult time better. Sometimes, if the opportunity there, you, get to be that helper.
"Your army is coming" 🥹❤No matter how dark things get, looking for the helpers, like Mister Rogers taught me (& so many of us it seems), is the one thing that always sees me through. It can be hard to remember when I'm in the thick of it, especially b/c my brain is wired in such away that impairs those automatic functions from doing it for me & sometimes they don't appear where I think they will (for me it's often indirect i.e. through music), but that doesn't take away from the inherent truth. 🫶🫶🫶
I have 2 joys this week. 1) My brother lives in Ashville and is doing very well considering and 2) My 2nd grand baby was born on Tues. Greyson Robert joined us and is perfect!
I choose your kindness, your loving heart, and your garden every time!! I am a labor and delivering nurse and this week a large joy was brought to me by having the opportunity to tend to a mother of probably one of my top five most special births ! Such a beautiful and God honoring delivery!
I love seeing the videos of Americans taking care of each other. And there are so many stories of citizens using what they have available to rescue,cook,clean or do whatever needs to be done for their struggling neighbors,communities or strangers!! These folks are not waiting for someone to lead them. They are taking the lead!! And making a horrible situation a lot more bearable! I thank God for such people! Prayers for everyone affected and for our whole country!! Please keep doing what you’re doing…it means a lot!!❤
Not in the news, but a responder in Bat Cave, NC is a Type One diabetic. He was running out of supplies of insulin. A lady up the mountain in Hendersonville heard about it and was able to round up the supplies that he needed. She took everything to the Fire Department in Edneyville and they were able to get the supplies down the mountain to Bat Cave. It is people helping people that gets the help done.
After 12 days in a row of rain, I got out to my weed garden, dug up the last sunflower, and happily discovered my Juncus Spiralis I haven't seen in years! It was like rain in the desert bringing back blooms. Now I am inspired again. Blessings to you Jess, and all those struggling 🌱
Our son lives a bit north of you near Greenville. They have no electricity but they have a camper and propane so they have been fixing hot coffee and pancakes and bacon for their neighbors each morning. It is a sweet little community and a lot of young children. They are all helping each other. Our church has been organizing aid and taking it in to areas farther east of us that were hit hard. Good if you survive - great if you triumph by helping others.🙏❤️
My “feel good” story is a simple one: I never get out of the house early to head to work. Day before yesterday I did. Everything lined up perfectly, dogs pottied quick, chickens didn’t fuss and morning chores went super fast. There isn’t a great spot to pull off the road….today, I pulled right into a farmers field, parked, sipped my coffee, praised God and watched the sun rise. It was glorious! When I got to work the boss asked why I was late…. I smiled and said “I was watching the sun rise.” She hugged me and said “Of course you did, I wouldn’t have expected anything else from you!”
I have loved seeing the videos of the mule teams getting into places otherwise inaccessible to bring supplies and support. Talk about getting back to basics. But caring and resourceful people often save the day.
I have a dear friend getting married in St Louis, Missouri next weekend. The couple sent out a text to those invited asking everyone to make a donation to a handful of trusted organizations, to include Hurricane Helene relief, instead of giving them a gift. Living in SW Florida, we were ground zero for Hurricane Ian two years ago and had a 5ft surge during Helene. Having heard of Cajun Navy Relief from others since Helene, I chose to make my donation/wedding gift to them for relief in North Carolina. When I (hopefully) fly to the St Louis area on Thursday (another possible storm is predicted for us on Wednesday), I'll have a copy of the donation receipt tucked inside the Congratulations on Your Wedding card. Hugs and understanding to you, Jess, from Cape Coral, Florida.
I am a nurse, and yesterday, was assigned to an area of the hospital focused on discharging patients to home. It limits my ability to leave the space when there are patients in this space so I was missing out on snacks and coffee provided to staff in the break room. I knew nothing about the treats however, one of my coworkers knew I was missing out and brought me a cup of coffee and a cookie in order to include me in these treats. Thoughtful people still exist. 😊😊😊
I was vacationing in Florida when the hurricane came through. Thankfully it wasn’t near us. Once we got home I had Covid so I’ve had lots of down time to watch the videos of devastating. What has stood out to me is the community of people from everywhere willing to help. I saw a video of a group with pack mules going into help! Pack mules! That’s how bad it is! Not four wheel drive. I went to bed last night thanking God for my bed and praying that those people that needed pack mules to reach them at least have a warm dry place to sleep tonight. Thank you Jess for giving reputable sources to send money to help. I’m not able physically but I can contribute. Always stay true to the Jess we love!
Jess, you just keeping being you. I know you sometimes struggle with “living in the glass house”. But your messages are so powerful. Please don’t filter your true self because others don’t understand. I hope that we all keep kindness and compassion in our hearts for that is the best part of humanity.
On Monday, one of my students passed away (overdose). Today was the first day back for this class. Usually, they scatter in seats all over the classroom. But today, everyone sat grouped together. I overheard several checking in on classmates, saw some hugs, just a general sense of wanting to connect with each other that brought me comfort (and close to tears). We’re all going to be alright, I do believe.
During the opiate epidemic teachers have been traumatized. I wish I could help you. Hugs and prayers and I hope you get good dirt under your nails soon.
I live in Buffalo NY- and there have been multiple small groups of ppl who have decided to take up donation collections in our community and drive it down to just outside of TN/NC areas and help the volunteers give it out to ppl who are in need. Its just pulls on my heart to see a community that is far from another community go out of our way to help ppl and it doesn't matter their political party or race/gender. Humans just helping other humans. It gives me hope!
During the pandemic, I found homesteading videos on UA-cam. I live in the suburbs, have access and means to purchase all the food my family needs. But the homesteading life made me think about whether I was being a good steward of the blessings we have. Yesterday, from my little garden (which brings me so much joy), I had gathered 10 pounds of tomatoes. I cooked those down and now have 8 one cup packages in my freezer. What a treat we’ll have this winter from that joyful, summer garden. Thank you, Jess. Your videos have encouraged me to think about the actions I can take to live a more grateful and fulfilling life. ❤
We moved to Alabama in July and were very fortunate to not be greatly affected by the storm. We’ve been trying to work on the house and all the projects but there are many and we have little kids so the projects often take a back burner to spending time with them. Our neighbor stopped by and introduced himself and offered to mow our back lot really quick as he was already doing his. Just a simple kindness but it lightened our load for other things and we are so grateful and excited to start developing relationships and building a network with wonderful and kind people in these difficult times. You’re doing great Jess 😊
I went to the grocerie store with my bike, today. When I came back, another bike was trying to snuggle mine. Now, I don't like moving other people's bikes, because they might yell at me. A elderly man saw me struggeling, trying to get my bike out from between to other bikes, with the suggly bike being on the left side. He just went and grabbed that bike, lifted it out of the way, so that I could get to my bike, and moved on. Just the simple kindness of it, is heart warming
Just today I was at the grocery store (mid Missouri) and I had stood behind an older gentleman at the pharmacy who was bent in half and smelled like one of your male goats. He was a little testy and feisty but eventually he moved on to other parts of the store. I got my shot I’d come to the pharmacy to get and then did a little shopping. I came across a group of people, store employees and regular shoppers, and they were all helping the elderly gentleman who had fallen. What awesome people they were to help a crabby elder who smelled to high heaven! I would have helped myself but there was an abundance of people already helping. Made my heart swell with pride.
The beautiful thing that touched my soul at a deep level was just reading from someone in the depths of destruction that the support from the others was giving them the strength to carry on. And that means so much. It’s beautiful, and I just don’t have the proper words for how that moves me. Thank you for sharing today Jess. Seeing y’all and the land and animals makes me feel good.
You have helped me through this week without power here in southeast Ga. I have appreciated every video as we went through this together… the shock, the survival, the making it work. The beautiful I have seen is our community many without power serving others who may not have some of the basics - be it due to age, finances, lack of prep etc- we ( the community) have pulled together cut down trees, cleaned up yards, tarped roofs, and fed people almost daily since about day 3. It isn’t over and the lack of “normal” is taxing but the community support I have seen is uplifting.
Hello Jess, Why I love watching your videos is because you are real. You speak your mind and we can all learn and grow from your experiences. We all have down days and that just makes us appreciate the good days that much more. Keep doing what you are doing and know that you are appreciated by all of us.
I work a hotel in Jacksonville Beach. We did not see too much, and are very grateful and fortunate. On of our sister properties, however, is in Madeira, and several fellow employees have lost everything. The hotel is currently housing our displaced employees, and our other properties (our hotel included, are coming together and collecting all matter of supplies (water, linens, towels, soap, snacks, dog food and treats-we are a pet-friendly hotel, etc) My manager at our hotel is incredibly thoughtful, selfless and kind-hearted, always looking to help who and where we can. One of the reasons I love my job. ❤
Good side of humanity: my husband stopped by $Tree this week (to stock up on his favorite candy), he (thought he) bought 10 packs, got out to the car & realized only 7 rung up. Went back in, explained to the manager & asked to just ring up/pay for 3 additional packages. This really positively impacted the mgr, as (in his words) “most ppl would have been halfway home by now ow & not thought that was important”. When my husband got home he realized he in fact, only grabbed 7 packages lol. I told him he paid the extra $ to show that mgr, there is good in humanity still & it was worth every cent. ❤
Today’s joys-watching monarch butterflies on the Mexican sunflowers, the bees enjoying the cucumbers, the hummingbirds flittering about. So much joy just in 15 minutes of peace in the back yard.❤
I saw where a Vietnam Veteran who wasn’t given a great home coming had so much faith in another man and what he has done for this country that he gave him his Purple Heart.
I was in the Walmart checkout. A man had a basketful of 1 gal water bottles. The first thought to come to my mind was, he was getting prepared. Turns out he was donating them for hurricane assistance. Bless him and bless you Jess! Now it’s back to the garden to get in the dirt and give thanks for the good in people and life!
Over the past few years, I have been lucky enough to find some channels and social media groups that have truly become my extended family. This week, we have had several people devastated by Hurricane Helene, and to watch my extended family come together to support and uplift each other in this crisis has been such a blessing. The news is often so bleak, but I ignore that and all the negative chatter, because they have it all wrong. Goodness and kindness are alive and well!! Thanks for keeping it true and real Jess, everyone needs that right now! 🤗❤
My sisters home was totally flooded out with Helene, my son and his VERY pregnant wife were to move to their new home this weekend and that is totally flooded out. We have a houseful and the daunting task of stripping out my sisters home. I am very grateful that it is only "stuff" that is lost..but all I really want to do is get out in my yard with headphones on and some good music and garden. It is the only normal thing in my life at the moment. Gardening brings peace and sanity to a horrific situation.
The haters will always come out in time of trouble. You are a refreshing source of humanity! I am in Colorado and the internet is full of people who have lost everything…..and they are out helping others. GOD is GREAT.
I'm a 911 dispatcher (when I'm not gardening!) and I helped a mom who had questions about her son a few weeks ago. In talking to her, I learned her son had a learning disability and he absolutely LOVES all things police! So we gathered up a bunch of swag from our department (stickers, pens, K9 trading cards, water bottles, a patch) and gave it to mom for her son. She cried, I cried...it was just a good experience. Fast forward to this week, I received an email from her son thanking us for all the goodies. He shared that he recently had an opportunity to participate in a citizens academy through his local PD and learned the importance of a dispatchers job. His words were a light in what is often a dark job. It was a reminder that we're not only here to help those in emergency situations, but to be a light for them as well. I cant imagine what it was like during the storm and along with the victims, I continue to pray for the emergency services personnel who are doing all they can to help. 💛
❤God bless you! My husband is an officer & I know how important you dispatchers are in keeping them informed & safe! You have a very stressful job, but it’s you who literally are saving lives. Thank you - we appreciate you ❤
Hello there from another dispatcher! Thanks for sharing your story I love that. ❤️ Don't you find gardening and Jess's videos such an incredibly therapeutic break? Sending love from my corner of the dispatching world to yours!
I dispatch in Raleigh, NC and we, along with 7 or 8 other agencies, were helping Buncombe county with their overflow calls. I heard some things that I could have never imagined in my 6 1/2 years here, and myself and my coworkers were forever changed that day. We've never felt more helpless. A week later 3 of our dispatchers were deployed to WNC to help out. It's been difficult for us to try and find any positive news lately, so thank you for sharing that bit of beauty, and thank you for what you do! 💛
Yesterday, I finally contacted the tiny feed store in my area. The owner has lots of coals in the fire, so you call and hope to catch him. I'm on disability and really have to juggle finances to try to keep animals, but know in the end it'll be worth it food wise. I went to get 2 bails off hay and paid for it. He insisted on giving me 3. Lady month the transmission on my pick up died. It was going to cost at least 5 grand to fix. I told the mechanic I'd have to sell or trade it to someone. He said he had a trade! It has a rebuilt tranny and motor and is 5 years newer. Not 4wd, but runs great! Keep praying people. God is faithful and will never leave you.
Jess, you are such a bright light in this world. My heart is full because of watching Pinball Prepper and Patara come together raising funds, shopping and delivering supplies to 3 really devastated areas in TN. I hope that lifts your spirit, too
Jess, you are a beacon even in your down days. I live in the Ozarks and realize similar things could happen here. I have also watched Patara and Pinball do God’s work. They have been amazing. There are many behind them we don’t know, but thank God for all of them. In the midst of your experience, you have taught me to look for the holes in my prepping. Thanks for putting yourself out there. You’ll never know what a blessing you have been to so many. My prayers are with you.
I have been under the weather and had to cancel bible study at my home. Within a short time all the girls were praying and one made me homemade chicken soup with ginger, (Which by the way cleared out my sinus and stopped the virus in it's tracks). As a widow they have my back!
$23 dollars change someone’s day! The woman in front of me at the store didn’t have enough money for what she had in her cart, without hesitation, I offered to pay for it. I’m blessed to be a blessing and it made her day better. God has you Jess, he will bless you and shine His face upon you for all the good you do for many! Don’t let the devil steal a moment from you!
Love your channel. Bless you all. Not weather related but I received the gift of life through a kidney transplant. A young man died but had the heart to donate his organs. The Lord has blessed me abundantly. I have no words for my gratefulness. Hope this inspires someone. Always keep your hope. ❤🙏
You got that right Sister. “I Chose You”. I look forward to hearing from you and I watch every single video. Can’t say that about others. I call it “R&R for the Soul”. Really enjoying these more frequent uploads.
Yesterday at my chemo treatment I was feeling a bit blah emotionally. My nurses smile and kind words lifted my heart. Sometimes just a simple thing can help.
Beauty of humanity: Trading flower seeds with complete strangers, giving and receiving generosity with others for no other reason than you want them to have the joy you experienced in growing those same flowers. Saying a prayer over them before they are mailed, that they will bring joy, peace, and healing to whoever sees them grown.
Absolutely can not believe I wasn’t subscribed to you. I could have swore I was. I’ve been watching your channel on my tv for over a year!! My bad! All my cannabis plants I grew for the first time were stolen out of my yard this week so I know what you mean about the ugly of humanity. Something that is beautiful though, a friend’s dad is giving us a really nice whole chicken coop to put our three chickens in. Feeling so blessed for this!
You are such a bright and positive light! My favorite story that you shared was to one about sharing the giant pot of chicken and rice with your neighbors. God is so good and all thing work into a tapestry of his design.🙏 Thank you
I always tell my almost 3 yr old granddaughter that it is ok to be brave and still have a tear. This has brought out the tears along with the bravery of the best in mankind. I have a Pastor friend in North Carolina that is east of all the destruction. He rented a U-Haul and drove towards Asheville with a load of necessities for those hurting. They took it all off and carried it onto helicopters. Makes my heart proud to know he and his friends are just one of the many who are reaching out to those in unbelievable pain right now!
I live in central coastal Oregon. Three years ago we had a fire that destroyed most of the small town I live in. The community pulled together wonderfully. Most of the people that lost everything have either rebuilt or replaced with modular homes. It was wonderful watching the community pull together. I love watching your daily life and your honesty.
You guys have helped me countless times without ever meeting me. I've cried through the devotional videos recognizing God's kindness in knowing what I needed to hear, and He led me to it through Jess, Miah and your family. Even in how you guys parent your children, you encourage me and open my eyes to types of parenting I've never seen before. Addressing issues like the broken food system and a healthier and simpler way of living let's me know that others get it. And sometimes, when life is just hard, and you have nothing left to give...it's okay to just touch the dirt and take a few minutes to rest and heal. When my cousin/best friend (took me years to get her into gardening, but she finally came to the green side! 😂) and I are noticing the other is having a moment and spiraling, we make a point to remind each other to stop and go touch some dirt. It was a game changer! You guys have continually poured into us over the years. So please, take a few moments to touch the dirt, breathe, rest and heal.
I have 2 sisters that live in Hendersonville nc. One of them got her power back on yesterday. She said that one thing she loved was the sound of all the helicopters flying overhead because she knew that they were coming to help & they weren’t alone. Who ever knew that the sound of helicopters could b so heart warming. 💕
A good friend of mine is the executive chef for Tupelo Honey, and he opened the Asheville restaurant and is feeding people for as long as they can. He says he's also giving out free hugs.
My sweet and dear friend is an amazing humanitarian and is helping up in the mountains to help the victims devastated by Helene. I loaded my car up full of donations to give to charities and she is staying with the Cajun navy for the weekend, as you stated in your video! If I didn't have a 2 year old, I'd be up there in a heartbeat helping out, but my prayers are filling up my heart and I see all the relief efforts, and donations, and our communities coming together to help those involved!
I think anyone that watches you regularly knows your heart and feels your caring… I know I do. You’ve helped motivate me as I move toward my own homesteading journey! And all the goodness is still out there, even though the dark sometimes seems brighter. The company I work for is a completely remote company who serves smaller boutique gyms and fitness facilities. Our team has been reaching out through our expansive network to make sure we hear from people in the area and to find out how we can help, even from all over the country
My favorite story happened 6 years ago and you’re apart of my story Jess. About 9 years ago I became bedridden due to pharmaceutical injury. I had hopes and dreams when I wasn’t feeling like I was going to die. God miraculously healed me about the same time I found your channel. Omg the inspiration and hope you gave me to grow a garden I know played a huge contribution in my healing. What surprises me Jess is you’ve heard other stories like mine. You honestly must know how precious you are to your viewers and to God himself who chose you to influence so many people to grow a beautiful garden.❤
I love your heart Jess, you wear it on your sleeve and it sings Jesus’ love. When I watch your videos, from older ones to present ones, I can see how your family has done well with what you had and it has multiplied. Wisdom and dedication and so much fruit from your labours. Thank you for sharing it with us.
![Lp. Сердце Вселенной #60 РОЖДЕНИЕ ЛОЛОЛОШКИ [Финал] • Майнкрафт](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/YoR0pAV9FVQ/mqdefault.jpg)
Some friends of mine are in Marion, NC. The dad was visiting their oldest son in VA, and the teenage girls stayed home with their mom and grandmother for a fun girls week. Hurricane Helene happened and their farm has a small stream that turned into a raging river between theirs and their neighbors, houses. They heard screaming and went outside in the storm to realize that their neighbors house was being washed away with them still inside it. The girls got a rope and tied themselves to their own house since the river was going around their house and swam through it to grab their neighbors and pull them back to their house using the rope. Everyone is safe, thank God! But community is coming together more than we have seem in a long time and that's something I'm incredibly grateful for. ❤
Those girls are heroes indeed!
Praise God! Such Bravery!!!
What a scary nightmare! Brave girls! It all looks bad on tv and the news, but it’s even worse than they say, especially the death count. I’m from Marion, NC, so it caught my eye. I moved to the coast 2 years ago, but all of my family is still in Marion.
@@ericawhitfield9289 we live near Pensacola, FL but have family up near Lexington, SC. We are trying to move up that way as soon as we can.
All of this breaks my heart. We have friends family all through the affected area, but thank the Lord, they are all okay.
@jess23sista ... What an amazing testament of bravery and love for their fellow neighbors (I was going to say "fellow man" but, well, you know.) I have heard of other amazing stories of communities coming together to pitch in and even nation wide. We are better and stronger than we think.💞
Jess!!! You gotta know about the MULES!! Mountain Mule Packers has been there from day one sending mules packed with stuff and doing rescues since Saturday. Please bring awareness to this AMAZING group of humans and animals!!! ❤
I guess I should say that we got sooo lucky. We are about an hour and a half outside of Asheville. We got a lot of rain but not really any flooding…yet anyway. Hopefully yall don’t get a bunch from the down flow either. 💜
Aren't they and the Cajuns just incredible?❤
@@EmbracethechaosPortugal yes!!! I’m in tears watching them every day! It’s so heartwarming 💜
@@TamaraMansfieldbookworm I can imagine they are one of the few ways to get supplies to some of the more remote hollers that have had roads washed out. Incredible animals.
@@Ribberflavenous yes! It’s so cool watching them. I’ve also seen nurses going up the mountain and rubble on horseback 💜
I just read that 700 Canadian linesworkers have gone down south to help with repaires. That makes me a proud Canadian. 🍁🍁👍👍💗💗 Also very happy to hear the Hollars are getting their power back.
Be blessed my Southern fam. I'm praying for y'all!
I have a short story that's not related to the current situation at all but one time we had scammers steal everything out of our bank account. The bank had everything in motion to get our money back but it still takes time. We were without any money for a little over a week and it was fine. We had everything we needed and could wait, but we ended up not doing our regular grocery run at the local small Amish grocer and when we didn't show they were worried and called. We explained the situation and they asked us to come up there and when we arrived they had bags of food for us that the whole family (lots of children) had run around their store collecting for us. Some necessities and some fun things like candy and chocolate for the kids. They just... gave it to us. It wasn't needed and they knew that, they just wanted to show us kindness and lift our spirits. I will never forget it. We were great friends with them before that and we continue to support each other in the ways we can. ♥Community that has your back has so much value, especially for the soul. I love you guys.
Thank you for sharing that story, it reminds anyone that hears it of how many people are good and kind. Even more important, I think it encourages people to be that giver and supporter - as much of a blessing it was for you, it was likely as wonderful for that family to share with another.
Those who bless others with love and concern are also being blessed...
@@SageandStoneHomestead that was so kind of them. God is so good. I love your channel
That was a wonderful story. Thankyou!
My 23 yo son is going from Texas to NC with men from his church to help. He works for Home Depot. They're giving him a huge load of donated materials and 2 weeks off. This is his joy to serve. I couldn't be more proud. And Home Depot is a fantastic company.
My husband who has had an estranged relationship with his Dad is finally reaching out. God is restoring relationships throughout my family. Prayers answered!
I live in Asheville (WNC) and all I see is the good in humans, right now. From the smiles of the gas attendants after waiting in the gas line for 2 hours, to the neighbors coming together to cut the 8 trees blocking our road, to the lineman working tirelessly to get all of our utilities restored, the law enforcement officers from other jurisdictions coming to help, the neighbors coming together to prepare community meals so no one goes hungry and to the Thousands of volunteers that have ascended on our tiny patch of paradise to help with search and rescue, food prep, spiritual guidance, bringing in much needed supplies, telecommunications, and just kind words and encouragement….we have seen the greatness of humanity. Thank you to all of you who are supporting us in your way. It means more than you know. This is hard and will be for a while, but it helps to know that there is more good in this world than bad. God bless each of you!!!! We are WNC strong -I type this as tears roll down my cheeks.
Hey Jess! I felt Jesus prompt me to let you know that you are making a profound difference. Your relentless hope even being a realist is a super fresh place.
Thank you so kindly for this encouragement
Our Cajun Navy is the best. They put aside work, family, & the best fishing of the year to help those in need. It doesn’t matter what part of the country it is. Our guys are there to help
I saw a reel this morning about people in Big Hungry Gorge using ziplines across the river to pass supplies and fuel up the mountain to people that are otherwise unreachable. It just warmed my heart and gave me great faith in the resourcefulness and resilience of the people.
Today at a Loves in eastern Oklahoma, while I was standing in line waiting to be checked out, I witnessed the man in front of me pay for an elderly woman’s coffee. The smile on her face instantly made my day. He turned to her and said “you have a blessed day ma’am” and she was just speechless and full of gratitude. There is hatefulness out there but I truly, wholeheartedly believe the good people out weigh the bad. Tenfold. Love you our tender Jess ❤️
Jess, while my hubs and I were out of town, our 17 year old daughter had her first flat tire. Thankfully, a random stranger helped her by changing it for her! We were so grateful for that random act of kindness!
I saw Pinball Preparedness and Appalachia’s Homestead with Patara’s followers raise $200,000 for storm survivors and convoy from Maynardville to Newport TN with supplies! It was so heartwarming and emotional!
Wow! Made me cry.
Yes!
@@loveishope4406me,too
Yes, made me cry and made me so proud of this community of folks.
They've done an amazing job. God Bless all of them.🙏❤💙🇺🇸🦅🇺🇸💙❤️🙏
A miracle happened this week. My sister in law Maggie got a new kidney on Monday. She is recovering well. It was a long time in coming and suddenly it happened. Very blessed. Very grateful!
Billy at Permapastures Farm showed an organization that is helping themselves and their community. I donated what little I was able. Cut yourself some slack Miss Jess. You all are precious and now must navigate the future. Hugs and love❤
First and foremost our hearts ache for all those struggling in the wake of Helene! I just want to add that I live in Louisiana and am so very proud of our Cajun Navy and their willingness to respond wherever and whenever needed! I have no doubt they will work tirelessly to do what they can! ❤️
Over the weekend, both toilets in my house backed up. I hope that never happened to you; not pleasant. The cleanup was pretty daunting, and at 78, not an easy task. So I kinda felt sorry for myself. And then...my whole house wasnt flooded, I didn"t watch my house float away, my roads aren't closed, my electricity wasnt affected, I didnt lose someone I loved. I felt thankful for the dose of perspective and the true compassion it engendered in my soul. Yesterday morning, my realtor{from 7 years ago} left a gift at my door-pumpkin spice latte, a Kind bar, and pumpkin spice chap stick. So kind, so random, such a boost to see again all the sweetness in a world of turmoil. Blessings for each of you today.I value the atmosphere that you, Jess, continue to provide for us.
Sending you love beautiful soul.
Value indeed ❤ soo much value...im watching 2nd time around 😊
You asked about sharing a positive story… I would like to say for me.. it’s YOU…
Ever since I have been watching your channel I get inspired .. I smile .. I laugh.. such a blessing to watch all that your family does. I enjoy your other channel as well and have made several recipes and have learned so much. I have learned how to live in the moment and enjoy what you have and feel truly blessed.
Thank You Jess.. ❤
I agree with you Sally. Jess has been my light in the tunnel during the loss of my father-in-law, who was my garden buddy. I have health issues and own a business. When I crave community and garden, I come here to my friends.
Here in Northern Kentucky, I've seen several folks arranging convoys to gather supplies and travel down to the areas lost to the hurricane to provide food, clothing, pet supplies, etc. and to have boots on the ground helping in the search for the missing and stranded.
"When I was a boy and I would see scary things in the news, my mother would say to me, "Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.""
~ Mr. Fred Rogers
I love how Mr. Rogers said, "Look for the helpers." It always come back to me in times like this.
I’m in southeast Texas. One of our local pastors is rallying the community to donate much needed supplies. They are going to convoy up there and hand out the supplies to the people that need it. Also advocating for continuous prayers. To see people selflessly care about people they have never met warms me. I’m brining my donations tomorrow.
Hi Jess! I got 6 chickens this week (finally moved to at least a house with enough yard for them). I also took my sweet special needs baby to the cardiologist to find out if he had a hole in his heart or not. They said his heart is perfectly healthy. ❤
SOW THE LAND channel in NC had damage, no power/water for 5 days. Their attitude was so uplifting. They decided they would set up camp, outdoor kitchen, and think of it as an opportunity to improve those skills. Wonderful to know their young one was witnessing that. Also, Jason had built a rack of IBC totes with guttering which caught all that rain, so they had plenty of water for animals, bathing etc. that was great to see how planning/prep got them through.
@JB-pd4ni excited to see their new place is right next to Ben and Meg ( the Hollars).
Right now, the Cajun Navy is using all forms of transportation to get through the mountains to people for extraction, to deliver critical supplies including medications, and more. They are even using/ partnering with mule trains.
The Cajun Navy ROCK.
I saw them on mules.
I have seen some amazing videos this past week on UA-cam regarding Helene. Whilst harrowing and heart wrenching it has also been amazing seeing such kind and amazing people in your community. I have discovered your channel and loved listening to you. What you say resounds in my heart. Praying for you. From a sister in the UK.
Hi dear one ❤( you warm my heart ♥️ often)
Not helene related but about community coming together.
My daughter’s best friend was widowed back in November.Her pension has still not been resolved. Very close to loosing her home. I reached out to our local legion, trying to find a solution. The commander. Immediately gathered her friends and started a fund raiser. I was in tears to learn about it. We live in one of the poorest counties in Arkansas and here it is, folks dropping g everything to help. We are soooo blessed, Jess! Hearts up! Garden , get rooted again. Today is a good day. We love ya guys and the values you share with us.
North Carolina News·
Donnie Goodman- Got to share. These mountain people are some of the kindest and toughest people. They will survive. I have been packing supplies in on horseback and I had the opportunity to visit an elderly lady. She didn’t have a road out, no electricity and no running water. She was very quick to inform me that she had a spring in the woods. She refused to take any items I had in pack saddles telling me to give it to someone worse off. Then she looked at me and said “young man I have dinner about ready, would you like something to eat.” Even when she had lost a lot she still wanted to share what she had. Makes me proud to be one of these “hillbillies.
Saw Cajun Navy 2016 using mules to deliver medical supplies. It made me cry because I know the history of US Army mules and library pack mules. It worked then and it works now. (Between then and now is just plain sad what happened to the mules.) May there be kindness and respect for all creatures. Thanks for giving Cajun Navy 2016 a supportive shout-out. ❤
Today I loaded my car down with tents, sleeping bags, shampoo, body wash, toothbrushes, toothpaste, hand wash, bowls, paper plates, plastic cups, plastic forks, games for kids, napkins. Alot more. Plan on going to the store and get more. I couldn't make the first 18 wheeler truck leaving out today. But several ppl gave me information to meet up with 2 more 18 wheelers....thur Monday. Love it when a community pulls together.
I’m watching from Arizona, you have encouraged me and my husband to reexamine our preparedness. I’m not an emotional person, but I was in tears last night watching video of civilians flying their helicopters to save people in the mountains. These situations are a definite eye opener and my prayers have intensified for everyone directly affected by the destruction. Much love and sending prayers 🌻
Where did you find those videos? I’d love to see some. I feel not useful in the face of all this devastation and having so little to offer.
@@nancycy9039 Hi Nancy - I just searched Hurricane Helene on UA-cam last night and the videos popped up. All my best to you and your family! ❤️
@@nancycy9039I hear you. I might start volunteering my time to help others.
My God's goodness moment came as I watched a pilot fly his brand new helicopter into the mountains to rescue and bring supplies to those in need. It's a story of selflessness & love.
I saw his UA-cam video and was overwhelmed by his unselfishness. What a great guy.
Jess I have been watching many of the videos from people about their experiences and what they see with all the carnage that the hurricane caused and it has been people helping people, their neighbors, doing well checks on their mountain friends... It brings me to tears seeing the genuine caring of others from out of state bring truckloads with cases of water, food, and first aid to those in need. It is beyond beautiful. Thanks for sharing. I love you and your family. I bless you hun.
I'm a North Carolina girl born and raised. Between the ugliness of humanity aimed at my state and the folks suffering here plus grieving it's been incredibly hard not to completely fall apart. However, the amount of instant action I have seen from people in my state wanting to convoy supplies from the coast to the mountains, Cajun Navy, the Mule Packers, Nascar drivers using helicopters to fly in and out of zones, and the overall love and support coming in gives me some hope.
We are praying for you all!
Hey Jess! I live in Michigan but my only child Elora (in Hebrew means light of God), she lives in Asheville NC, ground zero. She used her Jeep Cherokee to check on all her people, friends, coworkers. She drove to Chatlotte to get supplies for numerous households, fulfilling their list of needs. She kept in touch with me each day. When she called I had a list of information to share with her. I am so incredibly proud of my daughter! She put one foot in front of her other, kept perceiving and took care of others around her. I tell her I'm proud but it's ok not to be ok.
Watching people give so much of themselves to help others even though they were ravaged right along side. Putting the needs of their people ahead of themselves.
Also, watching the pack mule teams head out to help. Makes my heart swell with that nugget of joy in the disaster.
My prayers continue for all affected by Helene.
One of the things that I saw this week was a beautiful human being with no power or running water, livestock, and young children to take care of- taking the time out of her day to spread hope in humanity that sh*t is hard but it’s still very beautiful. It’s okay for things to feel hard while other people have had it harder. We are not all in the a same ship, but in the same ocean, and we are all allowed to have bad feelings. They are not weighed against one another. It’s good to be great-full, but also remember to show your children that what they(you) are feeling is relevant. ❤
😭😭😭😭❤️❤️
Jess, when you asked people to leave positive comments about the good in human nature, I clicked on the comment section so fast my finger nearly burned off. I then spent an hour or more just reading story after story about kindness, generosity, and love for fellow humankind. My heart is full. Thank you for always living, seeing, and promoting the beautiful human traits. Watching your channel is such an uplifting experience, even when you’re experiencing the down times, your hope and optimism shine through like a beacon in the storm.💕
Ditto 😊
I suspect your minimal troll volume is because you don't do clickbait titles. Beau of the Fifth Column is much the same way. The bots are tuned to key on hate/fear subject lines. You have really good people commenting here compared to most of the content providers I subscribe to. Kudos to you for fostering this kind of environment.
This is 100% what it is! Clickbait, fear-based titles get clicks because they spark emotion in people. If people buy into the title and don’t get the outcome they expected, they become irritable and are more likely to leave negative comments.
@@theladdhomestead UA-cam monitoring the titles. Another vlogger explained how the headlines have to be weird to hide more info. Weird.
💯
I saw a tiktok this morning of lamancha goats loaded with packs, carrying supplies to the hard to reach communities. I immediately thought of you! Made my heart happy ❤
I live in upstate NY and lost my home, cars, memorabilia, etc. in a flood in 2011. I was a single mom and worked so hard to have a home for my son. It will forever be a whole in my heart but to this day I will never forget the community that helped me. My favorite and one that still makes me cry when I tell the story is while in the grocery store I ran into my hairdresser who came up to me and gave me a hug and said how sorry she was that I lost everything. A little elderly woman overheard this and came over and handed me $20 and said, "I have bad knees and can't help but please take this $20 and get some food for you and your son." As I'm typing this tears still surface. I will never forget that elderly ladies genuine kindness❤️
Hey Jess, my friend shared that her nephew drove 3 hours and walked 5 miles to find his grandpa. He lives in the mountains of NC! He got there and thankfully his grandpa was taking care of an 83 year old neighbor lady! Her nephew, grandpa and this lady started walking back to where he had to leave his truck, when another person showed up and was able to drive them. They were able to ford the washout and get out! Thankfully all are safe and the lady is being cared for! I was in tears when my friend shared the story! I hope you are cheered, because God has His angels everywhere! Peace and blessings! 🙏💖🤗😘
My story is about a woman, who has a UA-cam channel,……she’s genuine, and sensitive, and generous, and compassionate. She’s uplifting, and real, and…..well…..she’s just lovely and inspiring, and I cry with her, and laughter with her, and hope with her…..
And I wish nothing but love for her and her family.
@@maryellenwalz7415 I’m guessing this story is about you Jess!
yep
The Cajun Navy is beyond awesome! They rush to Texas anytime there is a natural disaster. They are incredibly helpful & in many cases life saving. Texas LOVES our neighbors in Louisiana!
Yes, we do!
My granddaughter and her fiancé were stuck in the mountains in NC and they were fine in their cabin. But couldn’t get out. They took videos of other cabins floating down a raging river that used to to be a small slow moving river. Trees downed and roads gone. The neighbors all got together and helped clear out trees and fix what they could to be able to get out. The community is showing so much support and care for each other.
Okay, you asked for happy stories, so here is mine. In the spring, I successfully started way too many tomato seedlings. I planted as many as I possibly could, then shared with family and friends. I even sold some at our local farmers market! I had several left, so I drove down the road and started knocking on doors. Either nobody was home, or they said they had enough tomatoes planted, or they didn't garden at all. I thought, well I have a favorite manager at my Walgreen's store, so I'll go and see if he wants some lovely tomato seedlings. I drove there, and he was off all week! My son's friend works at Lowe's, so I'll go there and see if she wants any. She doesn't garden. I was slowly walking back to my car, and telling God that if He knows of some way for me to bless someone with these tomato plants, to please let me know. I passed an old man with a cane, walking in to the garden area, as I was walking out. He wore a veteran's hat, and was hobbling along. I heard him ask the cashier if they had any Beefsteak tomato seedlings. She said that they did not have any of that kind left. He was so disappointed. I was elated. Guess what I had in my car? Yep! I said, "Sir, I have some Beefsteak tomato seedlings in my car, and I would be happy to give you some." He got a spring in his step, and met me at my car. He thanked me so many times, and tried to pay me. I didn't let him, of course. I thanked him for his service. I drove home that day with a happy heart! PS I got his phone number, so just in case I "accidentally" plant too many Beefsteak tomatoes next spring, I can call him.
Hi Jess! Here’s a positive story, though it’s not about the hurricane. I recently received a cancer diagnosis (in the breast, very small, excellent prognosis- but yes I realize this isn’t how most positive stories start, haha). One of my old students from a school that I don’t even teach at anymore found out. He reached out and told me, “your army is coming”, and boy he wasn’t kidding. Old students that I haven’t spoken with in 8-10 years have sent care items, showed up to take me on adventures (one group took me to a rage room and then out for margaritas, haha), and one old student who is now a nurse dropped everything to cook, clean, and get my son off the bus while I was in surgery. My son’s birthday was the day after surgery, so a group of old students showed up while he was at school, decorated the house, made his allergy-safe cupcakes, and then later took him to a carnival that happened to be in town. I am stunned and humbled at the support I have received from students that I never realized I had made that significant of an impact on.
In all of this, I am reminded of Mr. Roger’s advice of looking for the good in all situations. It’s there, but it’s so tempting to become overwhelmed by the bad. I didn’t experience this particular hurricane, but Katrina directly hit my near-coastal hometown and we were without power, transportation, and all electric forms of communication for about 5-6 weeks. It was scary, but we grew through it and I am stronger because of it.
It’s okay to feel down sometimes, so don’t feel guilty for that! But I know your family will continue to persevere. And just like I have recently learned, your positive outreach is far greater than you may ever realize, outweighing all the negative influences that are momentarily dragging you down.
I always think of the advice Mr. Rodgers said came from his mom. To look for the helpers, those people who drop everything to make a tragedy or difficult time better. Sometimes, if the opportunity there, you, get to be that helper.
"Your army is coming" 🥹❤No matter how dark things get, looking for the helpers, like Mister Rogers taught me (& so many of us it seems), is the one thing that always sees me through. It can be hard to remember when I'm in the thick of it, especially b/c my brain is wired in such away that impairs those automatic functions from doing it for me & sometimes they don't appear where I think they will (for me it's often indirect i.e. through music), but that doesn't take away from the inherent truth. 🫶🫶🫶
I have 2 joys this week. 1) My brother lives in Ashville and is doing very well considering and 2) My 2nd grand baby was born on Tues. Greyson Robert joined us and is perfect!
Congratulations on the new addition!
And glad your brother is doing well through the current upheaval.
Congratulations!!
My daughter and family live by Asheville. They are okay. Finally got a text.
Congratulations 🎉
I choose your kindness, your loving heart, and your garden every time!!
I am a labor and delivering nurse and this week a large joy was brought to me by having the opportunity to tend to a mother of probably one of my top five most special births ! Such a beautiful and God honoring delivery!
I love seeing the videos of Americans taking care of each other. And there are so many stories of citizens using what they have available to rescue,cook,clean or do whatever needs to be done for their struggling neighbors,communities or strangers!! These folks are not waiting for someone to lead them. They are taking the lead!! And making a horrible situation a lot more bearable! I thank God for such people! Prayers for everyone affected and for our whole country!!
Please keep doing what you’re doing…it means a lot!!❤
Not in the news, but a responder in Bat Cave, NC is a Type One diabetic. He was running out of supplies of insulin. A lady up the mountain in Hendersonville heard about it and was able to round up the supplies that he needed. She took everything to the Fire Department in Edneyville and they were able to get the supplies down the mountain to Bat Cave. It is people helping people that gets the help done.
After 12 days in a row of rain, I got out to my weed garden, dug up the last sunflower, and happily discovered my Juncus Spiralis I haven't seen in years! It was like rain in the desert bringing back blooms. Now I am inspired again. Blessings to you Jess, and all those struggling 🌱
Our son lives a bit north of you near Greenville. They have no electricity but they have a camper and propane so they have been fixing hot coffee and pancakes and bacon for their neighbors each morning. It is a sweet little community and a lot of young children. They are all helping each other. Our church has been organizing aid and taking it in to areas farther east of us that were hit hard. Good if you survive - great if you triumph by helping others.🙏❤️
My “feel good” story is a simple one: I never get out of the house early to head to work. Day before yesterday I did. Everything lined up perfectly, dogs pottied quick, chickens didn’t fuss and morning chores went super fast. There isn’t a great spot to pull off the road….today, I pulled right into a farmers field, parked, sipped my coffee, praised God and watched the sun rise. It was glorious! When I got to work the boss asked why I was late…. I smiled and said “I was watching the sun rise.” She hugged me and said “Of course you did, I wouldn’t have expected anything else from you!”
Www😊
Www😊😅
I have loved seeing the videos of the mule teams getting into places otherwise inaccessible to bring supplies and support. Talk about getting back to basics. But caring and resourceful people often save the day.
I have a dear friend getting married in St Louis, Missouri next weekend. The couple sent out a text to those invited asking everyone to make a donation to a handful of trusted organizations, to include Hurricane Helene relief, instead of giving them a gift. Living in SW Florida, we were ground zero for Hurricane Ian two years ago and had a 5ft surge during Helene. Having heard of Cajun Navy Relief from others since Helene, I chose to make my donation/wedding gift to them for relief in North Carolina. When I (hopefully) fly to the St Louis area on Thursday (another possible storm is predicted for us on Wednesday), I'll have a copy of the donation receipt tucked inside the Congratulations on Your Wedding card. Hugs and understanding to you, Jess, from Cape Coral, Florida.
I am a nurse, and yesterday, was assigned to an area of the hospital focused on discharging patients to home. It limits my ability to leave the space when there are patients in this space so I was missing out on snacks and coffee provided to staff in the break room. I knew nothing about the treats however, one of my coworkers knew I was missing out and brought me a cup of coffee and a cookie in order to include me in these treats. Thoughtful people still exist. 😊😊😊
Thank you for all your hard work.
I was vacationing in Florida when the hurricane came through. Thankfully it wasn’t near us. Once we got home I had Covid so I’ve had lots of down time to watch the videos of devastating. What has stood out to me is the community of people from everywhere willing to help. I saw a video of a group with pack mules going into help! Pack mules! That’s how bad it is! Not four wheel drive. I went to bed last night thanking God for my bed and praying that those people that needed pack mules to reach them at least have a warm dry place to sleep tonight. Thank you Jess for giving reputable sources to send money to help. I’m not able physically but I can contribute. Always stay true to the Jess we love!
Jess, you just keeping being you. I know you sometimes struggle with “living in the glass house”. But your messages are so powerful. Please don’t filter your true self because others don’t understand. I hope that we all keep kindness and compassion in our hearts for that is the best part of humanity.
DEFINITELY the Cajun Navy. They responded to the flooding in NW Iowa this summer. Totally legit and they provide skills that save lives. ❤
On Monday, one of my students passed away (overdose). Today was the first day back for this class. Usually, they scatter in seats all over the classroom. But today, everyone sat grouped together. I overheard several checking in on classmates, saw some hugs, just a general sense of wanting to connect with each other that brought me comfort (and close to tears). We’re all going to be alright, I do believe.
During the opiate epidemic teachers have been traumatized. I wish I could help you. Hugs and prayers and I hope you get good dirt under your nails soon.
@@jenniferchristiansen2040 not opioid related, thankfully. But thank you.
I live in Buffalo NY- and there have been multiple small groups of ppl who have decided to take up donation collections in our community and drive it down to just outside of TN/NC areas and help the volunteers give it out to ppl who are in need. Its just pulls on my heart to see a community that is far from another community go out of our way to help ppl and it doesn't matter their political party or race/gender. Humans just helping other humans. It gives me hope!
During the pandemic, I found homesteading videos on UA-cam. I live in the suburbs, have access and means to purchase all the food my family needs. But the homesteading life made me think about whether I was being a good steward of the blessings we have. Yesterday, from my little garden (which brings me so much joy), I had gathered 10 pounds of tomatoes. I cooked those down and now have 8 one cup packages in my freezer. What a treat we’ll have this winter from that joyful, summer garden. Thank you, Jess. Your videos have encouraged me to think about the actions I can take to live a more grateful and fulfilling life. ❤
We moved to Alabama in July and were very fortunate to not be greatly affected by the storm. We’ve been trying to work on the house and all the projects but there are many and we have little kids so the projects often take a back burner to spending time with them. Our neighbor stopped by and introduced himself and offered to mow our back lot really quick as he was already doing his. Just a simple kindness but it lightened our load for other things and we are so grateful and excited to start developing relationships and building a network with wonderful and kind people in these difficult times.
You’re doing great Jess 😊
I went to the grocerie store with my bike, today. When I came back, another bike was trying to snuggle mine. Now, I don't like moving other people's bikes, because they might yell at me. A elderly man saw me struggeling, trying to get my bike out from between to other bikes, with the suggly bike being on the left side. He just went and grabbed that bike, lifted it out of the way, so that I could get to my bike, and moved on. Just the simple kindness of it, is heart warming
Just today I was at the grocery store (mid Missouri) and I had stood behind an older gentleman at the pharmacy who was bent in half and smelled like one of your male goats. He was a little testy and feisty but eventually he moved on to other parts of the store. I got my shot I’d come to the pharmacy to get and then did a little shopping. I came across a group of people, store employees and regular shoppers, and they were all helping the elderly gentleman who had fallen. What awesome people they were to help a crabby elder who smelled to high heaven! I would have helped myself but there was an abundance of people already helping. Made my heart swell with pride.
The beautiful thing that touched my soul at a deep level was just reading from someone in the depths of destruction that the support from the others was giving them the strength to carry on. And that means so much. It’s beautiful, and I just don’t have the proper words for how that moves me.
Thank you for sharing today Jess. Seeing y’all and the land and animals makes me feel good.
You have helped me through this week without power here in southeast Ga. I have appreciated every video as we went through this together… the shock, the survival, the making it work. The beautiful I have seen is our community many without power serving others who may not have some of the basics - be it due to age, finances, lack of prep etc- we ( the community) have pulled together cut down trees, cleaned up yards, tarped roofs, and fed people almost daily since about day 3. It isn’t over and the lack of “normal” is taxing but the community support I have seen is uplifting.
The American people are strong and resilient, and YOU are proof! God Bless!
Hello Jess, Why I love watching your videos is because you are real. You speak your mind and we can all learn and grow from your experiences. We all have down days and that just makes us appreciate the good days that much more. Keep doing what you are doing and know that you are appreciated by all of us.
Knowing that the strike has been put on hold makes seeing the good in people during tragedy a positive.
I work a hotel in Jacksonville Beach. We did not see too much, and are very grateful and fortunate. On of our sister properties, however, is in Madeira, and several fellow employees have lost everything. The hotel is currently housing our displaced employees, and our other properties (our hotel included, are coming together and collecting all matter of supplies (water, linens, towels, soap, snacks, dog food and treats-we are a pet-friendly hotel, etc) My manager at our hotel is incredibly thoughtful, selfless and kind-hearted, always looking to help who and where we can. One of the reasons I love my job. ❤
Good side of humanity: my husband stopped by $Tree this week (to stock up on his favorite candy), he (thought he) bought 10 packs, got out to the car & realized only 7 rung up. Went back in, explained to the manager & asked to just ring up/pay for 3 additional packages.
This really positively impacted the mgr, as (in his words) “most ppl would have been halfway home by now ow & not thought that was important”.
When my husband got home he realized he in fact, only grabbed 7 packages lol. I told him he paid the extra $ to show that mgr, there is good in humanity still & it was worth every cent. ❤
Absolutely good people are everywhere and your husband is one of them! :)
Today’s joys-watching monarch butterflies on the Mexican sunflowers, the bees enjoying the cucumbers, the hummingbirds flittering about. So much joy just in 15 minutes of peace in the back yard.❤
I saw where a Vietnam Veteran who wasn’t given a great home coming had so much faith in another man and what he has done for this country that he gave him his Purple Heart.
I was in the Walmart checkout. A man had a basketful of 1 gal water bottles. The first thought to come to my mind was, he was getting prepared. Turns out he was donating them for hurricane assistance. Bless him and bless you Jess! Now it’s back to the garden to get in the dirt and give thanks for the good in people and life!
Over the past few years, I have been lucky enough to find some channels and social media groups that have truly become my extended family. This week, we have had several people devastated by Hurricane Helene, and to watch my extended family come together to support and uplift each other in this crisis has been such a blessing. The news is often so bleak, but I ignore that and all the negative chatter, because they have it all wrong. Goodness and kindness are alive and well!! Thanks for keeping it true and real Jess, everyone needs that right now! 🤗❤
The cajun navy worked with us on coordinating rescues after hurricane Harvey. They are a great place to donate to
My sisters home was totally flooded out with Helene, my son and his VERY pregnant wife were to move to their new home this weekend and that is totally flooded out. We have a houseful and the daunting task of stripping out my sisters home. I am very grateful that it is only "stuff" that is lost..but all I really want to do is get out in my yard with headphones on and some good music and garden. It is the only normal thing in my life at the moment. Gardening brings peace and sanity to a horrific situation.
The haters will always come out in time of trouble. You are a refreshing source of humanity! I am in Colorado and the internet is full of people who have lost everything…..and they are out helping others. GOD is GREAT.
I'm a 911 dispatcher (when I'm not gardening!) and I helped a mom who had questions about her son a few weeks ago. In talking to her, I learned her son had a learning disability and he absolutely LOVES all things police! So we gathered up a bunch of swag from our department (stickers, pens, K9 trading cards, water bottles, a patch) and gave it to mom for her son. She cried, I cried...it was just a good experience. Fast forward to this week, I received an email from her son thanking us for all the goodies. He shared that he recently had an opportunity to participate in a citizens academy through his local PD and learned the importance of a dispatchers job. His words were a light in what is often a dark job. It was a reminder that we're not only here to help those in emergency situations, but to be a light for them as well. I cant imagine what it was like during the storm and along with the victims, I continue to pray for the emergency services personnel who are doing all they can to help. 💛
precious thank you for sharing. That was sweet.
❤God bless you! My husband is an officer & I know how important you dispatchers are in keeping them informed & safe! You have a very stressful job, but it’s you who literally are saving lives. Thank you - we appreciate you ❤
Hello there from another dispatcher! Thanks for sharing your story I love that. ❤️ Don't you find gardening and Jess's videos such an incredibly therapeutic break? Sending love from my corner of the dispatching world to yours!
I dispatch in Raleigh, NC and we, along with 7 or 8 other agencies, were helping Buncombe county with their overflow calls. I heard some things that I could have never imagined in my 6 1/2 years here, and myself and my coworkers were forever changed that day. We've never felt more helpless. A week later 3 of our dispatchers were deployed to WNC to help out. It's been difficult for us to try and find any positive news lately, so thank you for sharing that bit of beauty, and thank you for what you do! 💛
@@valeriatye7979 Yes! Gardening is my escape!
Yesterday, I finally contacted the tiny feed store in my area. The owner has lots of coals in the fire, so you call and hope to catch him. I'm on disability and really have to juggle finances to try to keep animals, but know in the end it'll be worth it food wise. I went to get 2 bails off hay and paid for it. He insisted on giving me 3.
Lady month the transmission on my pick up died. It was going to cost at least 5 grand to fix. I told the mechanic I'd have to sell or trade it to someone. He said he had a trade! It has a rebuilt tranny and motor and is 5 years newer. Not 4wd, but runs great!
Keep praying people. God is faithful and will never leave you.
Jess, you are such a bright light in this world. My heart is full because of watching Pinball Prepper and Patara come together raising funds, shopping and delivering supplies to 3 really devastated areas in TN. I hope that lifts your spirit, too
Jess, you are a beacon even in your down days. I live in the Ozarks and realize similar things could happen here. I have also watched Patara and Pinball do God’s work. They have been amazing. There are many behind them we don’t know, but thank God for all of them. In the midst of your experience, you have taught me to look for the holes in my prepping. Thanks for putting yourself out there. You’ll never know what a blessing you have been to so many. My prayers are with you.
Jess, look up Appalachias Homestead with Patara ... she is boots on the ground for this. She is working with a GREAT guy to help!
I agree. She is working with Pinball Preparedness. Both awesome peoples and channels
I have been under the weather and had to cancel bible study at my home. Within a short time all the girls were praying and one made me homemade chicken soup with ginger, (Which by the way cleared out my sinus and stopped the virus in it's tracks). As a widow they have my back!
$23 dollars change someone’s day! The woman in front of me at the store didn’t have enough money for what she had in her cart, without hesitation, I offered to pay for it. I’m blessed to be a blessing and it made her day better. God has you Jess, he will bless you and shine His face upon you for all the good you do for many! Don’t let the devil steal a moment from you!
Love your channel. Bless you all. Not weather related but I received the gift of life through a kidney transplant. A young man died but had the heart to donate his organs. The Lord has blessed me abundantly. I have no words for my gratefulness. Hope this inspires someone. Always keep your hope. ❤🙏
You got that right Sister. “I Chose You”. I look forward to hearing from you and I watch every single video. Can’t say that about others. I call it “R&R for the Soul”. Really enjoying these more frequent uploads.
Yesterday at my chemo treatment I was feeling a bit blah emotionally. My nurses smile and kind words lifted my heart. Sometimes just a simple thing can help.
Smiles are free
@@danarzechula3769 free and good medicine.
@@danarzechula3769 they are free and appreciated. I’m fortunate for such a caring staff.
The shortest distance between people is a smile.😊
United Cajun Navy is an amazing organization! They've also been asking for volunteers to help hand out supplies as well.
Beauty of humanity: Trading flower seeds with complete strangers, giving and receiving generosity with others for no other reason than you want them to have the joy you experienced in growing those same flowers. Saying a prayer over them before they are mailed, that they will bring joy, peace, and healing to whoever sees them grown.
Absolutely can not believe I wasn’t subscribed to you. I could have swore I was. I’ve been watching your channel on my tv for over a year!! My bad!
All my cannabis plants I grew for the first time were stolen out of my yard this week so I know what you mean about the ugly of humanity. Something that is beautiful though, a friend’s dad is giving us a really nice whole chicken coop to put our three chickens in. Feeling so blessed for this!
You are such a bright and positive light! My favorite story that you shared was to one about sharing the giant pot of chicken and rice with your neighbors. God is so good and all thing work into a tapestry of his design.🙏 Thank you
I always tell my almost 3 yr old granddaughter that it is ok to be brave and still have a tear. This has brought out the tears along with the bravery of the best in mankind. I have a Pastor friend in North Carolina that is east of all the destruction. He rented a U-Haul and drove towards Asheville with a load of necessities for those hurting. They took it all off and carried it onto helicopters. Makes my heart proud to know he and his friends are just one of the many who are reaching out to those in unbelievable pain right now!
I live in central coastal Oregon. Three years ago we had a fire that destroyed most of the small town I live in. The community pulled together wonderfully. Most of the people that lost everything have either rebuilt or replaced with modular homes. It was wonderful watching the community pull together.
I love watching your daily life and your honesty.
You guys have helped me countless times without ever meeting me. I've cried through the devotional videos recognizing God's kindness in knowing what I needed to hear, and He led me to it through Jess, Miah and your family. Even in how you guys parent your children, you encourage me and open my eyes to types of parenting I've never seen before.
Addressing issues like the broken food system and a healthier and simpler way of living let's me know that others get it.
And sometimes, when life is just hard, and you have nothing left to give...it's okay to just touch the dirt and take a few minutes to rest and heal.
When my cousin/best friend (took me years to get her into gardening, but she finally came to the green side! 😂) and I are noticing the other is having a moment and spiraling, we make a point to remind each other to stop and go touch some dirt. It was a game changer!
You guys have continually poured into us over the years. So please, take a few moments to touch the dirt, breathe, rest and heal.
I have 2 sisters that live in Hendersonville nc. One of them got her power back on yesterday. She said that one thing she loved was the sound of all the helicopters flying overhead because she knew that they were coming to help & they weren’t alone. Who ever knew that the sound of helicopters could b so heart warming. 💕
A good friend of mine is the executive chef for Tupelo Honey, and he opened the Asheville restaurant and is feeding people for as long as they can. He says he's also giving out free hugs.
My sweet and dear friend is an amazing humanitarian and is helping up in the mountains to help the victims devastated by Helene. I loaded my car up full of donations to give to charities and she is staying with the Cajun navy for the weekend, as you stated in your video! If I didn't have a 2 year old, I'd be up there in a heartbeat helping out, but my prayers are filling up my heart and I see all the relief efforts, and donations, and our communities coming together to help those involved!
I think anyone that watches you regularly knows your heart and feels your caring… I know I do. You’ve helped motivate me as I move toward my own homesteading journey!
And all the goodness is still out there, even though the dark sometimes seems brighter. The company I work for is a completely remote company who serves smaller boutique gyms and fitness facilities. Our team has been reaching out through our expansive network to make sure we hear from people in the area and to find out how we can help, even from all over the country
My favorite story happened 6 years ago and you’re apart of my story Jess. About 9 years ago I became bedridden due to pharmaceutical injury. I had hopes and dreams when I wasn’t feeling like I was going to die. God miraculously healed me about the same time I found your channel. Omg the inspiration and hope you gave me to grow a garden I know played a huge contribution in my healing. What surprises me Jess is you’ve heard other stories like mine. You honestly must know how precious you are to your viewers and to God himself who chose you to influence so many people to grow a beautiful garden.❤
I love your heart Jess, you wear it on your sleeve and it sings Jesus’ love.
When I watch your videos, from older ones to present ones, I can see how your family has done well with what you had and it has multiplied. Wisdom and dedication and so much fruit from your labours. Thank you for sharing it with us.