I became a widow and my life changed. As you said, the move was hard. Friends were scattered, new people were nice but didn’t needed a new friend. I moved into a patio home community thinking there would be lots of new friends. Everybody waves to you but nobody visits. Last week I lost one of my True friends to cancer. At 83, I have to wonder about these Golden Years. Lots of praying for an answer.
Janice, my namesake, all is well. Go out-of your way to make friends. There are probably ladies in your exact situation. I tell myself this same thing all the time. I need to make friends. I know it's easier said than done.
I'm so sorry, Janice. I was widowed at 36, but remarried. I never gave birth & know that if I outlive my husband, I will be truly alone. Can you start asking neighbors if they want to come over Friday night for a board game? Yahtze? Cards? Something that 4 can play. Everyone is told to bring one snack, cracks & cheese, fruit, veggies, etc. You could offer beverages. Find out what they like. You could rotate game night each month, unless you want to entertain. I wish you the very best. Remember, everyone will want to talk about the old days & their kids. Maybe make a rule "Can't talk about anything older than 5 or 10 years." Good luck & know that we are here for you.
Yes, these golden years are not what I imagined either,but it seems the whole world is in chaos and uncertainty...we have to keep the faith and do our best to move forward...the best is yet to come...
I moved from Cincinnati to a small rural Florida town 9 years ago. I remember sitting on my front porch one night and I thought, " I've moved to Mayberry". I have made one friend in 9 years.
50 years ago I remember laying on my Grandma's bed looking out the screen window at the stars shining in the night sky. I could hear crickets chirping, frogs croaking and I felt completely safe and loved. I 'go back to that happy place in my mind. Thank God for good memories!
Don't feel bad. We moved 7 months ago and have been VERY involved and have 0 friends. I think it's just the way Americans are now. Mike is still going to Bible studies etc. but I've given up trying. I don't have the energy to waste on people who don't want to have friendships. It's not you.
Wow, my sentiments exactly about not having the energy to waste of people who don't want to have friendships. I believe that friendship goes way beyond what I see now. It's sad. But I'd rather be alone than with falsity or nothing. By the way I watch your channel all the time. Be healthy, stay safe and many blessings, Morgan
Or, they are waiting to see if the new ppl stay before they invest the time...i don't agree with that mentality but do see it as a means of self protection in tight knit communities.
Love seeing jenn with her hair down, she is so pretty. I had long hair until last year and had to cut it because of cancer treatment, doing great, treatment is working and hair is growing out, cancer is a type that can be cured, Praise the Lord. Enjoy watching y'all.
Go to Walmart in pet Dept. Pick up pH tape for fish tanks. Urine in a cup check your pH. Most people with cancer have low pH. Lemon water, greens veggies will bring pH up in 2 days. Cancer cannot grow with a normal pH at 7.4 to 7.6. The Lord gave me this information years ago. This is the way he explained it. What happens to fish in fish tank if pH in water goes down. Fish die. Well, your body is mostly water if pH is low you die so keep pH at 7.4 to 7.6 cancer cannot grow. I have help people with stage 4 cancer some had treatment looking half dead. Some no treatment other than bringing pH up and keeping it there. Go back to Doctor after two months of normal pH and no signs of cancer. Go to You Tube for recipe for Golden Turmeric Milk. I love the taste it's very good. Turmeric is a cancer fighter and a detox for your organs, blood and the whole body. It helps with joints pain also . I am 75 I take it everyday. All of the people where cured Doctor shocked after the 2 month gone. This is a blessing from the Lord.
Jen, it breaks my heart to see you looking so sad. Don't let anyone get you down and ALWAYS remember what a fantastic, wonderful, smart, funny, loving, caring , giving, hard working soul you are! At the end of the day, no matter how much money we have, where we live, or what we do - everyone just wants to be loved and accepted. Stay strong, gather the troops and although most of us have never met and likely never will, you have created the Stive Tribe and we are there with you always. We will be there to lift you up and support you whenever you need us to be. Don't ever forget that!
I moved from a farming community to Phoenix talk about a system shock, I went from knowing everyone to not knowing a soul. I have been here over 14years and only have 3 friends. I hate it.
Every time I see your barn on that little knoll, there’s one word that comes to mind…Storybook. Stiver’s Storybook Farm…every time I see that barn and your logo, that word pops into my mind. Your place is so beautiful. I hope I can find a mini version of your place in future… God bless…
I've never kept friends and family separate. If family is visiting we invite friends over also, our families love meeting our friends a vice versa. No need to choose one over the other.
I thought for sure one of Zach's favorite memories would have been when Jen and Zach had to move the composting toilet out of the house! ;) Thank you for being honest and so down to earth!
Love y'all, hugs and prayers. Sorry, your hurting or lonely, but I do get that. I only moved 600 miles, 3 states away 8/13/2020. On 8/23/2020, 10 days later my hubby of 48 yrs passed. Only know my daughter's hubby and my grandbaby. Older retired folks around me and they're nice but not social at all. Covid has stopped me from joining anything. Found a great church tho. Was baptized on the 19th. Blessings y'all, julie
Can I offer some encouragement? 7 years ago we moved from a city of almost half a million to a SMALL town of about 550. Small. Everyone knows everyone. And everyone knows everyone's business. It was an enormous shift for us. Like Jen, I put myself out there so hard to try to make friends and be involved but nothing felt natural. It probably wasn't until year 3 that I finally felt at home and true relationships began forming. That's the thing about friendships. They have to naturally form. In the in-between time, we focused on our family. But I do remember that first year being really, really tough. It will all work out. Don't give up yet!
Awe...this was kind of a sad one. I understand completely. Small towns can be hard. People who live in them can be loners, and dont take to change. Sounds like you need to be the welcoming committee for new neighbors moving to town! Maybe family move into the cottage? Just remember you have all of us with you always!
Excited to attend the chicken class and dinner next month. We moved to the area and had struggles too. We used to live just a few minutes from most of my family in IL. My husband took a job in Crater City and we moved down here. He ended up hating it and has changed course, starting his own businesses, which keeps him away a lot.I wanted more community connections and was struggling My turning point was volunteering at the food pantry. I am running into people and finally getting recognized. It seems like a silly thing to run into a person you know at the gas station or grocery store. That 5 minute conversation can make your day, feeling part of the community. I get it. Looking forward to processing some birds!
We moved a few times as our kids were growing up, twice clear across the country. It takes at least two years to get friends, it really does. Find a church, a homeschool group, a volunteer group. Last move I started my own homeschool group. Once a month we had about 8-10 moms and kids come over. We talked about homeschooling only, just shared and encouraged each other. We had people come to teach the kids something, once a mountain man came. Such fun! Friends change too as your kids grow up. People move away. Having friends is always a work in progress. ☺️
That's great that happen for you. I moved 11 years ago to a small town. I do have two good friends however one of the friends wasn't from here either. The people in this town are nice but I am still treated like an outsider. I go to church people are very friendly there but half the people are related and the other half has known that family for generations. Some places will never be accept you as a local. I'm not unhappy here and I have a good life. However if I had it to do over again I would of never move to this town.
Thanks you guys for sharing... I needed to be reminded again of what you are saying, I too have had so many major changes in the last decade, my husband passed away, I lost my farm, I’ve moved three times and met with some not so nice people. with many challenges and I still am hanging on to the past and the happiness that I had...but... in the last year I have really made more of an effort to make new memories and find new happiness! You can never go back...you are so lucky to have one another. I wish you the very best of every happiness always...&
I was proof reading when I accidentally sent my message but you got the jest of it. I do want to tell you that you guys have brought me so much comfort and joy in you sharing your lives and your family. You’ve been a real light in my life. God bless and keep you safe. ❤️
I waited 45 years to revisit the homestead where i grew up. Everything was changed, the only things remaining were the pear, mulberry, quince and fig trees. The well was boarded up, the pond no longer existed, the beautiful pepper tree centre to the terrace was gone. All the chicken sheds were dilapidated. The pine plantation did not even smell the same. 21 acres simply was not the way i remembered it at all. Sometimes i am glad i revisited and other times i wished i hadnt gone back so that my memories would have stayed intact.
When I am slogging through the mud, and the animals aren't cooperating, and things aren't coming together the way I want them to, and I don't have any help when I need it, I start to wonder if I made a mistake with this property. It would have been soooo much easier if we went with something smaller that already had a finished home on it, with fencing and maybe a barn or 2 on it. Where the plumbing was in, the electrical was finished, and all the insulation was covered. But, then, on those warm sunny days, when things are green and the birds are singing, I look around and I can't imagine living any where else.
I didn't find myself in this at all... I used to live with family around and I felt suffocated. Everyone had an opinion on what I should do with MY homestead and it drove me insane. I moved 200 miles away to get away from them and I've never been happier. I am making friends that are new to the area and that have similar ideas about what life should be like. And because we are all starting fresh, there is no one that thinks they can tell me what to do and how to do it.
I went through some of that and then my kids started moving their families to this little town, three states away. Oh and my new little town has a population of 1300, the entire county consists of 13,000. I'm not a super social person but have found if you do things for others it will build bonds. Do you have a farmers market? I'm helping to organize one for this spring and believe that will help forming more community...it's not for the money but mainly to meet people.
Love these videos guys. Remember, you may not be as close as the people who have deep roots there, BUT your children will go to school there and grow there. Their roots eill be there and one day they will be in good in a very nice area. Thats so worth it.💗
My husband and I are in our 70s and over the last 50 years we have moved numerous times. Each move, whether out of town, out of state or out of country, it took at least 18 months to feel settled and connected with new friends.
Correct Jen and Zac..You can never go back to what was.. Moving foward and holding on to family is the most important thing in this life..Your family, is, your happiness..God bless Ya'll..🌹
It takes times for a small community to except new comers. I know I was a outsider too. I live here alone in this community. I got very sick 1/26/22. I didn't eat for 16 days I believe I died and came back. Let me tell you I have never felt so much love from this community. I didn't even know I counted in this community. I always felt like a lone! Pray and ask God to bring the people that will be a mutual benefit to your family and theirs. Just give people time to adjust. We all have issues with change. Just keep being yourselves the right people will come. Lord bring the soul family that belongs here with us. Bless us with Harmony, support and love here. So all will be blessed. If their are people not for our highest and greatest good. God bless them wherever they go. We except only peace, love and Harmony in our family. Thank you Lord for these blessings!
People in small rural areas are bonded together by decades, if not a couple centuries, of the same families having each other’s back, sharing the same heartaches and horrible tragedies, particularly if it is not just small but also somewhat of a remote area. Newcomers can be polite and try to quietly fit in economically, religiously and politically, and will be accepted at arms length, but without the heartbreaking history, one will rarely have “tight” friendships. The multi-generational history is the bond.
That's how it is with all things. Nobody can ever go back to anything. The back part has changed and so have all of us. So back can't happen. We can run to the old home our parents or anywhere... for a visit. We are still loved and love them but everyone and everything has changed. 'Back' just can't happen. It's so tuff dealing with growing pains.
We are blessed and found our forever home, even with plumbing problems and had to get a new well pump and new toilet and roof leak. We love it here, going on two years. he and I both from large families and we both used to cook Sunday dinners for them. It went from crowded houses and lots of noise to none of them have time to come see us. That's OK, in the middle of nowhere, we have peace and quiet-he's busy trucking, I'm loving the hermit life. Things I can't do myself-he helps when he gets home. No drama!
As a child, we moved to a small town. My parents were never accepted. We were kids, but never seen as FROM there. Someone once told us "if your grandparents aren't buried here, you aren't from here". 50 years later, we are still referenced by where we came from.... Needless to say, we all left. As did those that came after us, and those that came after them. Maybe that's the lesson to me, as one who lives in a small town now. A really conscious decision to be welcoming to the new folks, and maybe they'll stay.
I love all your videos, keep up all the great work you do. I love it that you keep it REAL. Change can be hard but can also can be a good thing. Proud of you!
There are pros and cons to anything you do. Hind sight is 20/20, and while I feel we moved when we needed to, we were able to get this house for a good price. We didn't know they would push city boundaries to include our property. We didn't know that I would get sick with migraines and vertigo. We didn't know so much, and had I known then what I know now, I probably would have encouraged my husband to focus more on land than house, etc. Making friends can be difficult, and family is irreplaceable, no matter how difficult those relationships can be at times. I am extremely introverted, so it's very difficult to make close friends.
I live in the same town that you do. I'm 49, born and raised here. It made me really sad to hear that you tried to make friends but it just didn't happen. To be honest, it's not you at all. You have a lovely family. This town is backwards in general. Always has been. Set in its stubborn ways I guess you can say. I Pray hopefully down the road that changes for you guys and you make the friends that you deserve. Much Love and Prayers.
I remember this happening to me many years ago - regarding the actual house. We had big regrets for a while. Two years? As for friends - if your little town was familiar with your UA-cam videos it would fast track you to new friends. I have no doubt about that bc you are wonderful people and fun people. The only thing you are missing is a history in the town. You don’t have that but you have your videos and people will watch and feel like you are already a friend.
Oh yes. We moved 5 years ago and the rose colored glasses are fully off. It's rough, but change always is. I'm glad you posted this because we are not alone.
I would love to see a video of you twenty years from now, watching this video and commenting on it. Before long your home will become home… it took us probably 6-7 years before we felt “at home” again. But now I look back 22 years ago and think “man what a ride.”
I'm from a town like the one you moved to, population 2400. When "strangers" moved into the area, they were "strangers", the old folks would call the foreigners. You moved into a mindset, you moved into a way of life and you moved into a tight knit community that has known each other for decades. It's not that they are unwilling to be friends with you, it just takes time. You mentioned that you had attended multiple churches. Pick the one you like most and keep going. Take the preacher some brownies or cookies every so often. Volunteer for Anything that needs a volunteer. When your gardens start producing show up to church with a box of veggies that are free for anyone and ask the preacher to announce it from the pulpit. In the Spring show up to church with a bouquet of flowers that can sit on the alter and after church give it to one of the little old ladies or a nice family. (My aunt used to do that every Sunday) Keep showing up and showing up and it will happen. You prayed about this move, I know you did. God put you where you are for a reason.
So bribe them? I've lived in my hometown for 62 years now. And most all of my family has gone home to God now. Friends have moved away, or died. Found out some of my so called friends, weren't. People are just so stand offish now. I have tried to make new friends, but they just are so busy doing whatever anymore. They don't want to have real friends anymore. People think "friends" is Facebook or Twitter or whatever online thing their into. It's sad. And I'm talking about before all this madness of the last 2 years happened. I miss having friends come over, or us visiting them. Just having a close friend to talk to. So I know where your coming from Jen and Zak, I haven't moved. But I am living the same thing. But I know if I met you in person, I'd love to be your call me anytime friend. I know I'm old compared to you. But I know we'd have a blast.
Good advice Krickette! All we can do is be a beacon of light and people will be drawn to it. And even if they don't it doesn't matter, we have the Lord as our witness of our heart and our life. We were good neighbors and that is what matters. Miss Lori Tanner, I have felt what you say too, especially after my divorce. I pray that it changes for you and you find the friend you need and want.
I moved to where most are related to each other..anyone moved here..are outsiders..i am mostly friends with others that moved here..from with the state or from out of state.
Krickette. ..this is exactly the very best advice. I especially agree that they need to choose a church with God's help and go regularly and always smile and say hello . It does take time for people don't get discouraged . Give kindness ad trust God for the rest.
@@loritanner4478 No Lori, Gestures of Friendship, it IS what we are talking about here. I'm 55 years old, I've lived in my current town (population maybe 300) since 2011. My daughter married and moved away and I realized that other than my hubby and my farm animals I had no one around me to talk to. I also realized it was because I had failed to put myself out there and make friends. I've attended multiple local fire department fundraisers, went in did my 'duty' and left. I've attended 3 local churches but none of them on a consistent basis. Go in, sit at the back and leave before everyone else did. I am part of an online yard sale group that meets every Friday at the fairgrounds in the next city over so I started showing up on Fridays and talking to people. It wasn't long before I was invited to coffee with a group of them, then I was invited to a picnic with that same group, and it's grown from there. Now I know most of them by name, where their hubbys' work etc. Two of them have become good friends in the last few months. We have a girls day once a month, we get together with our hubby's and do motorcycle rides etc. None of this would have happened if I hadn't decided to put myself out there. I had to walk into that yard sale group and start the conversations myself. If You are lonely Lori, go make a friend. Don't let the current "crisis" stop you from having fun and enjoying life. My momma always told me that if you want to have a friend you need to be a friend and she was right.
Thats awesome you have a great supportive family. My husband and I have a very small couple people we can truly rely on (literally 2). We didnt more really far from our hometown, but one of the reasons we moved is because the neighborhoods we grew up in weren't great, & a lot of them are in and out of jail & doing drugs so we still dont have old friends... & weve had trouble making new ones. I hope to at least pass down those traits with my kids of having a close family, people you can rely on, etc. So at least my children & grandchildren can have that!
Growing towards the sun is like a beautiful flower opening up, but looking back every now and again you can see your roots. It just keeps you grounded. Enjoy your past and future!
I've been living here in Iowa for a good 14 years and still have not made any friendships .I'm not originally from here so it made it very difficult,but I have made some babies and they are my best friends now.
Wow, you hit on all my same topics! I moved 2 hours South of the old home, friends and family, then have struggled with a tiny town, finding a church, making friends from people that have lived here for generations. After years, I sort of withdrew and focused on my own happiness just as covid hit. Now two more years later, I’m trying to get my friends and family to visit. Make my place more beautiful and more welcoming as I’m still open to making friends if they fall out of the sky! Moving away from where you grew up and have friends and family will be a social shock for about a decade! In five years, I can count on one hand how many times I’ve had a friend or family at my house on a Friday! Saturday is the day and sometimes they stay all night and go home by Sunday noon. There is a lot of fun things to do here, and it’s a good tourist area. Crickets
I can so relate. Grew up in a very tight and huge family, always being in each other's lives. Left my home at 21 yrs to get married and live on a different continent. At this point, no real regrets, but I sure miss home
We just left our off grid property in middle TN and the universe brought us to KY. I found your family when I was trying to find KY homestead channels and I can't believe the similarities that are there as far as the whole journey...I miss so many things, too.. but I know there are a few key things that I do not miss..and that keeps me going forward with knowing we made the right decision to sell. We're in between ... After having woods were in a townhouse and it takes effort to not go nuts while we wait for everything to align to get approval for a new property here. But all the while, I can't tell you how much your channel has kept me inspired, hopeful and faithful in the future.My husband and I hope one day we can meet you because we keep saying how many things we laugh about due to it being crazy that you went through the same things we did! Thanks for being real and sharing so much .. it's been a major help to me during these couple of months.
We moved across the country into a small town in January 2020. 2 years later we are doing alright, but still miss alot. Our church has been a huge encouragement and accepted us well, even though "we ain't from around here". We are a few months from having the compound we have always wanted. My parents and Hubby's parents along with our adult siblings all on 12 acres together. Working on homesteading and creating a safe place to thrive together.
So many things have changed since y’all’s move. People just aren’t the same. I’m still in the same town and people have changed significantly. However we moved approximately 12 years ago and it’s still not the same here. We lived on family fruit orchard that had been in the family for 6 generations. The neighborhood just got too bad. I like where I’m at now but don’t love it the same. We could grow anything we wanted there but struggle with good soil here. Plus there’s subdivisions going up all around us and I hate that. I love the rural country life. However now I’m in no situation to move again. Just making the best of it. 😊
Oh, man, THIS! Family is always our number one. We moved back to my little hometown after many years away, and it's not the same. But I have family here and need to be here for them. It will never be the same, but we have family close for the first time in ages. It'll get better. Change is hard, even when it's for the better.
I wish we lived closer to yall...it would be an honor to be friends with yall. You're right, you can't go back...my sweet Daddy died almost 5 years ago and it's never been the same since he passed. Our families had our own little "compound", everybody living right beside each other, taking left overs to each other for supper, Sunday dinners at Granny Nez's house. I miss all of that. Makes me cry!
This is from 2 years ago. BUT this is so spot on! I grew up in a small town and moved to a smaller town about 1.5 hrs away about 8 years ago now. We have yet to make great friends. We have befriended our neighbors but other than that, nothing. It's heart breaking and can feel very isolating. If you have family willing to make the trip and have the room for them to stay, definitely embrace that! I wish our friends and family came to visit us more often. Now we are looking to move back "home"
I hope everything works out for y’all. We moved about 10 years ago and we still don’t have “friends” that we could call to come over. It’s hard to find those true friends when you have kids involved and you want good people around. I hope y’all can get your family back close to y’all again. 💕 God bless
I’ve wondered why your fam wasn’t there much! I’m so happy you’re sharing your small town experience, some things you just don’t know until you experience them!
What a sweet visit! We moved to a smaller town almost 8 years ago and our whole world has been turned upside down little by little ever since. We somehow still love where we are. The strange thing is that we don't get to live a snapshot life and no matter how much we loved a certain stretch there's just no going back. We try to appreciate the good memories and we try to make good new memories and hold it all loosely. Tomorrow's never a guarantee and we can't go back to yesterday so that just leaves today..
I feel the same way we have been in our town for almost seven years and I have yet to make a decent friend. Everyone is related to everyone so we are still the outsiders. Our closest friends and family are 3 hours away so it makes it really hard some days.
I've moved 2000 miles away from my family and dont regret it. My husband and I move with the idea of what's best for us and our children. It was a tough choice but the best choice. It's best not to reminisce on the past. Look to the future.
We moved six years ago from a heavily populated area to what we thought was a suburb that was much more quiet. Now six years later it is hustling bustling and you can hardly leave the neighborhood without traffic traffic. But we find other routes to get out of the neighborhood now to avoid the red lights in the lines but things are growing. When you’re in a big city people want to get out of it. We did get much more for our money then we could have in the city where we live. So things change and you do the best you can.
Hubby and I moved to a country setting 5 1/2 years ago and if it weren't for our large family visiting often it would probably be kinda lonesome. I'm glad we have cookouts and get-togethers as we always have. We're going on 60 now and appreciate family more and more.
Wow, speaking directly to me. We put our home of 28 years on the market this Thurs up north. We've never lived anywhere else but CT. It's going to be heartbreaking to leave family and friends, but we aren't real social people anyway. We usually see family a few times a year, friends about the same. We bought 25 acres down south a year and half ago and have been working on our infrastructure. We have already met so many Wonderful people we believe God has placed in our path. Although it will be bitter sweet to leave we are so excited and terrified at the same time. Thanks for sharing
This is very timely and your honesty resonated with me. I'm in a two year process of coming to grips with the big move off a mini farm, to a bigger city. I moved for a job transfer that has been really horrible. I had some really rough times and wanted to go back. I knew it wouldn't be the same, my heart was broken. At the same time I became an empty nester, after being a single mum. I have made a few really good friends, walking the dog around the neighbourhood helped. I think its like a grieving process that we have to work through, we grieve those things we lost. We have to acknowledge and accept the losses. I liked how you encouraged and gave good advise to your viewers, not just your story. Like you said make a list of the positives and how you can change the house, lifestyle or family circumstances to make you happier, help create new memories and the feeling like your finally home.
Someone said the same thing in one of my Facebook homesteading groups. I want to move to the country but I am a bit of a loner and it's just not that easy for me to make friends. I don't know.
I think with any big life decision there comes questions as to whether it was the right thing to do. I can tell you that this will pass and you will go back to being happy about your move.. I closed on my house March 29th which is a year ago today 2021. I just started having a lot of anxiety lately Lee and I'm not sure why but I love my house and I don't have a mortgage And there are things I want to do to make it more my own and my own style.. It's taken me a year to get curtains hung by my care giver can't give her because I'm disabled and the end she comes 7 days a week. I have no living family or close friends so so this is all on my on my own. And I was very content until recently but I will figure it out and so will you! God-bless you and your family. :)
I totally feel this. We moved to our little town 4 years ago and still don't have friends in town. It's a very tight community with no need for newcomers. I think this happens a lot to folks that move to small communities. I am so grateful for our online homesteading communities like the Stive Tribe. Hearing from other likeminded people really helps put things into perspective and lets you know that you're not alone. Ya'll are awesome! Thanks for sharing those venerable moments with us. You are not alone, luckily you don't live 1800 miles from family and are able to get that wonderful family connection. It will get easier, especially if you are spending more time with the people who really love you.
As a person who has always lived in a rural small town (northern MN under 400 ppl and the next town is 45 min away from my home) ..... I can see this. We are really closed off and I admit it. I think its a little fear? And just kinda not wanting ur home to change? Outside folks change things, a lot. Sometimes for the good..... but most often I hate to say it, NOT. You guys are so kind tho I cant imagine folks not opening up to you. Our area gets a lot of city cabin folks.... and our lifestyles just arent the same.... they just arent. I love ur honesty.... I think with this huge migration of city or larger town folk going to rural areas this is timely. Weve been here for ever.... give us time too.... its such a strange time for a lot of ppl i think those that moved and those of us they moved by too.
It broke my heart when you said you all had not made friends. Your family seems so precious, a friendship with you all would be a blessing. My family is in the process of moving back to my husband's hometown of Williamsburg Ky. I will be praying for our paths to cross, and a friendship to build. (I guess I should mention I'm not a stalker LOL just a God fearing wifey, and momma to five little miracles.) Keep your heads up and please keep sharing your journey you are helping and inspiring so many!
Thank you for your honesty! So many homestead channels and social media accounts show these amazing lives with these amazing things. Then someone like me is finally able to move (from Baltimore area) to my "retirement homestead" (I decided to rush and get here before retirement). I moved in October. And I could not be happier (unless my grown kids were able to move next door. That's the only thing that could make this more wonderful). I've never been happier, more peaceful, .... more full of faith (a new thing for me). But there is an element of... the "newness" and the excitement of the move has subsided. And I look around and wish I had this or that accomplished already (more garden space in... the half built chicken coop done... the half stained deck finished...and the "construction zone" look gone). So I totally get it! The fairytale newness is worn off. It's still totally a dream come true for me but it is different now. --- You know... I think that means that this is truly home now. -- I am so appreciative of videos like this. The reality that everyone else isn't living an "Instagram" picture perfect life and I don't have to try to be perfect either.
They say you can never go home again. You now understand what that means. I learned it the hard way too as we all must. Glad to see you are getting to the next step, as I have and looking to make your house a home, you home a community and your living a life worth fond memories. Good luck, be safe, when in doubt, love more, worry less and grow something.
You guys are wonderful and I love how you share your stories ..the good and bad. I want so much to have what you all have...we got sheisted into moving to SW Kansas last June by a broker out here...promised us and lied to us. We were in my husband's home state of East Tennessee...Knoxville. We just wanted to move northeast in the state...more country than city but couldn't find anything in our budget and were homeless after having our house sold out from under us so we had to make a decision and ended up out here. We both dislike it very much...mainly cause of the lies and not having what we needed here. Now we're trying so hard to get back out East...even been trying central South Kentucky cause the prices in Tenn are far out crazy. We have two offers right now on this place and still not found what you all have. We don't want acreage with a mobile...we want a Farmhouse and 10-15acres would be great. Cant find it. Now my husband found a place in central Georgia...really don't want to go that far south but its looking like a possibility as again we have no choice unless we stay here and thats a No. I enjoy watching and learning from you guys. Really was hoping to find something near your neck of the woods but its just not there I guess. Prayers and God's Blessings to you and your families.
Hello Jen and Zack. Glad for this video . We moved to our home on an acre July 9th, 2021. We had chickens and was so excited but the neighbors dog killed our chickens not once but twice so no chickens anymore. Cold winter has giving me seasonal depression. This video helps . My daughter got our mobilehome when we bought our homestead so I see my old place but yes it's different now. We went from the city to a small country town. Really only have one real friend here. Everyone has to travel atleast an hour to come see us. Depressing being so far from family. Nice to know I'm not the only one feeling this way. Take care.
Moving to a new place & finding your tribe is definitely hard. Especially with being a stay at home farm mom! Just know one day hopefully soon you will find your people. 💕 We’ve been at our new farm for almost 2 years now & I have found a lovely group (literally 2 fellow farming mamas) who share the same values as myself. I would suggest if you have a local town group to maybe post in that group. We also have a very small town (around 5k people) I joke around have more cows than neighbors. But, everyone knows who we are because I post from our farm page to our town page weather it be a silly story, or sharing some food or asking for help. Please don’t hesitate to put yourself out there. Someone is looking to befriend you.
Our last home was that way, the land and house were more than I ever thought we’d have but the community just did not work (annnd the weather was so humid I was avoiding going outside which is unhealthy) we were there 7 years and made a move here in 2019. I love every acre of it everyday, we are still slowly reaching into the community (once bitten twice shy) but we are really grateful that our welcome here has been entirely better. So I feel like I kinda know how your feeling with the new fitting in part and I will be praying that time and family will lead to many happy memories and maybe a few wonderful local friends too. ❤️ you put such love into each project.
We moved to WNC, 1/3 mi from SC stateline, almost 10 yrs ago. From East Haven CT. Thats wifes' birthplace, she would not want to go back. This is country living. I' m from Lancaster Co, PA. Grew up on 30 acre produce farm. 3 acres here in NC. 🗽
This is a hard time for so many young couples. The events of the past few years have caused many to feel isolated and to feel like everyone else is living their good life while you’re alone. Social media is great in some ways and I love our homestead community but there is nothing like actual “face” time. Hugs, laughter, friendships are sorely needed and hard to come by. Platitudes don’t help. I’m older and ok staying home and being alone a lot. But at your age, I would have been miserable. Farming in itself breeds isolation. Covid, moving, homeschooling, small town living all do also. You have a right Jenn to feel as you do. It’s very real what you’re going thru. Thousands upon thousands of other young couples, my kids included, are right there with you. Surround yourselves with family love. God bless you both. My saying is, things won’t always be like this. This Grannie’s heart feels your hurt and will ask the Lord for brighter days.
When I attended college, one of our daily reminders.was: "Keep on keeping on." Whether it's your daily time in God's Word, prayer, work, study, relationships, etc. Still my reminder. Thank you for filling a little corner of my heart while I'm going through some of the same life changes! Love and prayers to you.
We moved to a small town in April 2021 making new friends are hard for us also everyone lives her there whole life also so it’s hard to enter peoples circle of friends . I hope in time that we make friends and hope the same for y’all!!
When we moved out to our property we missed our social life a great deal and when things were hard I would have dreams (literally) of my old home and the back porch that held so many memories. We've made new memories but we are still not part of the closest community. It can be hard at times but fortunately we had my mother in law live with us for fourteen years and that was golden. Change brings challenges but through challenge we become stronger!!
"Every hardship we have, we make the best of it". I love that attitude! "Life isn't about what it hands you, it's about what you do with what it hands you". I can't remember who said that to me but it is so true and that's your way of thinking. Awesome.
I love the honesty and hard look at your lives you two are willing to do. AND your willingness to share that with us. We moved to a remote location 25 years ago. The neighbors were suspicious of us, we were isolated and we had three young children. However, over the years, newer people moved in and we became part of the established population. I now believe if any of us needed each other we would help rather than harm each other. When we first got here we weren't sure of that. Also, our three kids are now adults who thought they wanted to leave home and live in the city. That didn't last long. Two are back and one is on his way once he finishes law school. Our little homestead has now become a compound. We spent the last couple of years building outdoor community areas for gathering. I guess what I'm saying is it just takes time. You're the newbies right now but the locals will eventually warm to you when there are newer people. And then you can befriend old and new. And your own kids will eventually need their own places. Hopefully they will either come home or at least want a vacation home on the place. For us introverts, that's plenty! In the meantime, you guys have us, your virtual friends. And we love you and what you do.
Blessing's and a grateful heart! :) Maybe you'll meet some cool people when you get your shop "Grand Opening"! My only regret is not moving farther out with more acreage! Have 10, should have bought 40 ;)
My husband and I bought our 1st house, what we thought was going to he our forever home, but - you put it perfectly- "when the dust settled" there were a lot fo things that came to light. There were also alot of things I thought wouldnt bother me or that I could deal with- that does bother me... so weve decided to stay here about 5-6 years, & then to start looking for a new home. I also want more property to try to grow my cutflower business.
Hello from northern KY! Looking for land to call home. I've got family in Beattyville 💜 happy to find your channel and looking forward to learning from your adventures! Best to your family 🥰
We live in Northeast Tennessee. I'm originally from Southwest Virginia. [we saw yall at the Fair back in August :)] Even still being in the city we have mostly grown up in, it is still hard to belong. We live in a shed to home on my husband's family land. There are still times I don't feel like I belong even out here. His family is very much of that old Appalachian mindset of trust no one unless they are us. And that mindset is sooooooo prevalent around these here parts. Stick to your guns and the right people will be your community.
Y’all look so healthy and happy. Good looking couple. Love your honesty and transparency. You are both so intelligent and you articulate difficult topics with such ease and Grace. Thank you for being vulnerable to share your experiences that touches so many lives.
I moved from a city to a small town of 2, 000 I have no friends here but I have some family here I still travel 45 miles to go to the church I love and see my church family and have a great pastor love u guys
Love this! After coal mines shut down and we moved from SE KY to central we thought we were moving to a rural smaller town, nope... no one waves, no one likes our homestead, it's horrible. It took me 12 years to make friends back home then we had to move. Now we are moving back towards the mountains as soon as we can. We have actually looked in Barbourville and sE of Corbin but decided to not change jobs. I miss friends, we have no family in our state. In 16 plus years we have had visitors maybe 4-5x. Since we went to making our own food 100% of the time, prepping... it set us apart from others. We finally found a good church where we want to move, but they don't have any kids lol well just 1. I'm praying for a new homestead to come available and God to bring other families to the church. I lived 26 years with 3 sisters and my mom there almost daily, we had kids together. The last 16 years have been hard and I'd love to have that community or even that compound you'll had. I love my not so little family though and we have fun together. We have been blessed with lots and I know one day we can find friends if it's God's will. My heart goes out to you guys. Struggles are there but blessings are abundant
I was a city girl and I married a farmer. When we moved to the farm , I cried never having lived in the country. Fast forward 52 years later we are loving living in the country. We raised two children . Our daughter lives in Virginia and our son lives in Texas. We don’t have grandchildren. My husband just celebrated 81 years , and I celebrated 79 years. We enjoy watching your videos so much we love you all. God bless your family.
Small town living can be very difficult to break into. As an army brat that went to thirteen different schools across the country, I was always an outsider. You will carve your niche and locals will seek you out on their terms. Give them time. In the meantime, live your lives to the fullest on your terms. God sees us all.
Very true, you kind of have to stay busy living, then the folks start to mix when they feel like it, it does take awhile in a small town but you won’t be the new folks for long.
I SOOOO get the small town aspect. I'm from a small town in a different state, moved to Houston then moved to the small town life in a different area. It has been very hard. Relationships are already established, family lives around family and there is no room for the new for the deep relationships. You are always an outsider.
I was moved by our parents along with my 8 siblings (me being the oldest), to a town of 1000 pop when I was 13. Now decades later none of us live there. When we graduated everyone of us left asap. As you mentioned, everyone there was born there as well, they didn’t want outsiders and we’re not afraid or ashamed to say it. My brother and sister who were great basketball players were always benched when scouts were around. Maybe the reason my sister got her Doctor’s degree and my brother goes around the US telling his story to young people about not letting small minded people get in the way or your growth and happiness. I personally left and didn’t look back. Only reason I would go to that forsaken town, was to visit my parents. I Never spend a dime there, always took my mom out of that town for the day. If you stay make sure your kids are getting a fair shake at everything in school, talk with them. We found out much, much later the biggest bullies were the darn grownups even the teaching staff. All my siblings have stories, the kind that nightmares are made of. Not to scare you, but make sure you get a good open conversation with your kids and be alert. 😉
My husband, myself & our kids (and pets) just packed up and moved from Concord, NH to Texas. Like last month, right after our new baby was born. We have nobody here except his grandparents that live almost 2 hours away. We have 5 acres of land where we can have farm animals which was super important to us, but our neighbors on both sides are junk hoarders and have dogs/cats just running loose constantly on our property which I didn’t expect. We too are very nervous, and feeling like even though we love it here and like the weather better, this is all so scary and we feel totally alone. We are hoping to upgrade to a bigger lot in a different area in a few years but for now we are stuck here and need to make it the best we can. I’m glad I’m not the only one that feels a little helpless and like things need to change.
Thank you so much for sharing!! I am going through this since our move from Michigan to Tennessee. This helped me see that I need to soul search and recreate the life I want!!!
I became a widow and my life changed. As you said, the move was hard. Friends were scattered, new people were nice but didn’t needed a new friend. I moved into a patio home community thinking there would be lots of new friends. Everybody waves to you but nobody visits. Last week I lost one of my True friends to cancer. At 83, I have to wonder about these Golden Years. Lots of praying for an answer.
Janice, my namesake, all is well. Go out-of your way to make friends. There are probably ladies in your exact situation. I tell myself this same thing all the time. I need to make friends. I know it's easier said than done.
Most people today don’t have time for friends except so called friends that are users & take never give. At least people who are trustworthy.
I'm so sorry, Janice. I was widowed at 36, but remarried. I never gave birth & know that if I outlive my husband, I will be truly alone. Can you start asking neighbors if they want to come over Friday night for a board game? Yahtze? Cards? Something that 4 can play. Everyone is told to bring one snack, cracks & cheese, fruit, veggies, etc. You could offer beverages. Find out what they like. You could rotate game night each month, unless you want to entertain. I wish you the very best. Remember, everyone will want to talk about the old days & their kids. Maybe make a rule "Can't talk about anything older than 5 or 10 years." Good luck & know that we are here for you.
Yes, these golden years are not what I imagined either,but it seems the whole world is in chaos and uncertainty...we have to keep the faith and do our best to move forward...the best is yet to come...
Hugs and kisses headed your way 🎉
I moved from Cincinnati to a small rural Florida town 9 years ago. I remember sitting on my front porch one night and I thought, " I've moved to Mayberry". I have made one friend in 9 years.
50 years ago I remember laying on my Grandma's bed looking out the screen window at the stars shining in the night sky. I could hear crickets chirping, frogs croaking and I felt completely safe and loved. I 'go back to that happy place in my mind. Thank God for good memories!
Don't feel bad. We moved 7 months ago and have been VERY involved and have 0 friends. I think it's just the way Americans are now. Mike is still going to Bible studies etc. but I've given up trying. I don't have the energy to waste on people who don't want to have friendships. It's not you.
Wow, my sentiments exactly about not having the energy to waste of people who don't want to have friendships. I believe that friendship goes way beyond what I see now. It's sad. But I'd rather be alone than with falsity or nothing. By the way I watch your channel all the time. Be healthy, stay safe and many blessings, Morgan
I married into a small farming community. Ive made it home and am accepted but I’m never going to be a local even after almost 30years!!!
Or, they are waiting to see if the new ppl stay before they invest the time...i don't agree with that mentality but do see it as a means of self protection in tight knit communities.
Love seeing jenn with her hair down, she is so pretty. I had long hair until last year and had to cut it because of cancer treatment, doing great, treatment is working and hair is growing out, cancer is a type that can be cured, Praise the Lord. Enjoy watching y'all.
Praying for u xo
@@kdown3660 Thank you!
Wear your hair down more often, beautiful 😍😍😍
She is very beautiful! I love her with her hair down too. I'm sorry you are going through cancer but Im glad treatment is working.
Go to Walmart in pet Dept. Pick up pH tape for fish tanks. Urine in a cup check your pH. Most people with cancer have low pH. Lemon water, greens veggies will bring pH up in 2 days. Cancer cannot grow with a normal pH at 7.4 to 7.6.
The Lord gave me this information years ago. This is the way he explained it. What happens to fish in fish tank if pH in water goes down. Fish die. Well, your body is mostly water if pH is low you die so keep pH
at 7.4 to 7.6 cancer cannot grow.
I have help people with stage 4 cancer some had treatment looking half dead. Some no treatment other than bringing pH up and keeping it there. Go back to Doctor after two months of normal pH and no signs of cancer. Go to You Tube for recipe for Golden Turmeric Milk. I love the taste it's very good. Turmeric is a cancer fighter and a detox for your organs, blood and the whole body.
It helps with joints pain also . I am 75 I take it everyday.
All of the people where cured Doctor shocked after the 2 month gone.
This is a blessing from the Lord.
Jen, it breaks my heart to see you looking so sad. Don't let anyone get you down and ALWAYS remember what a fantastic, wonderful, smart, funny, loving, caring , giving, hard working soul you are! At the end of the day, no matter how much money we have, where we live, or what we do - everyone just wants to be loved and accepted. Stay strong, gather the troops and although most of us have never met and likely never will, you have created the Stive Tribe and we are there with you always. We will be there to lift you up and support you whenever you need us to be. Don't ever forget that!
I moved from a farming community to Phoenix talk about a system shock, I went from knowing everyone to not knowing a soul. I have been here over 14years and only have 3 friends. I hate it.
Every time I see your barn on that little knoll, there’s one word that comes to mind…Storybook. Stiver’s Storybook Farm…every time I see that barn and your logo, that word pops into my mind. Your place is so beautiful. I hope I can find a mini version of your place in future… God bless…
I've never kept friends and family separate. If family is visiting we invite friends over also, our families love meeting our friends a vice versa. No need to choose one over the other.
100%
I thought that was odd too.
I thought for sure one of Zach's favorite memories would have been when Jen and Zach had to move the composting toilet out of the house! ;) Thank you for being honest and so down to earth!
Oh this just gave me the biggest belly laugh just recalling the memory of the video can’t imagine real life ❤️
Love y'all, hugs and prayers. Sorry, your hurting or lonely, but I do get that. I only moved 600 miles, 3 states away 8/13/2020. On 8/23/2020, 10 days later my hubby of 48 yrs passed. Only know my daughter's hubby and my grandbaby. Older retired folks around me and they're nice but not social at all. Covid has stopped me from joining anything.
Found a great church tho. Was baptized on the 19th.
Blessings y'all, julie
Can I offer some encouragement? 7 years ago we moved from a city of almost half a million to a SMALL town of about 550. Small. Everyone knows everyone. And everyone knows everyone's business. It was an enormous shift for us. Like Jen, I put myself out there so hard to try to make friends and be involved but nothing felt natural. It probably wasn't until year 3 that I finally felt at home and true relationships began forming. That's the thing about friendships. They have to naturally form. In the in-between time, we focused on our family. But I do remember that first year being really, really tough. It will all work out. Don't give up yet!
Awe...this was kind of a sad one. I understand completely. Small towns can be hard. People who live in them can be loners, and dont take to change. Sounds like you need to be the welcoming committee for new neighbors moving to town!
Maybe family move into the cottage?
Just remember you have all of us with you always!
Excited to attend the chicken class and dinner next month. We moved to the area and had struggles too. We used to live just a few minutes from most of my family in IL. My husband took a job in Crater City and we moved down here. He ended up hating it and has changed course, starting his own businesses, which keeps him away a lot.I wanted more community connections and was struggling My turning point was volunteering at the food pantry. I am running into people and finally getting recognized. It seems like a silly thing to run into a person you know at the gas station or grocery store. That 5 minute conversation can make your day, feeling part of the community. I get it.
Looking forward to processing some birds!
We moved a few times as our kids were growing up, twice clear across the country. It takes at least two years to get friends, it really does. Find a church, a homeschool group, a volunteer group. Last move I started my own homeschool group. Once a month we had about 8-10 moms and kids come over. We talked about homeschooling only, just shared and encouraged each other. We had people come to teach the kids something, once a mountain man came. Such fun! Friends change too as your kids grow up. People move away. Having friends is always a work in progress. ☺️
That's great that happen for you.
I moved 11 years ago to a small town. I do have two good friends however one of the friends wasn't from here either.
The people in this town are nice but I am still treated like an outsider. I go to church people are very friendly there but half the people are related and the other half has known that family for generations. Some places will never be accept you as a local.
I'm not unhappy here and I have a good life. However if I had it to do over again I would of never move to this town.
Thanks you guys for sharing... I needed to be reminded again of what you are saying, I too have had so many major changes in the last decade, my husband passed away, I lost my farm, I’ve moved three times and met with some not so nice people. with many challenges and I still am hanging on to the past and the happiness that I had...but... in the last year I have really made more of an effort to make new memories and find new happiness! You can never go back...you are so lucky to have one another. I wish you the very best of every happiness always...&
I was proof reading when I accidentally sent my message but you got the jest of it. I do want to tell you that you guys have brought me so much comfort and joy in you sharing your lives and your family. You’ve been a real light in my life. God bless and keep you safe. ❤️
I waited 45 years to revisit the homestead where i grew up. Everything was changed, the only things remaining were the pear, mulberry, quince and fig trees. The well was boarded up, the pond no longer existed, the beautiful pepper tree centre to the terrace was gone. All the chicken sheds were dilapidated. The pine plantation did not even smell the same. 21 acres simply was not the way i remembered it at all. Sometimes i am glad i revisited and other times i wished i hadnt gone back so that my memories would have stayed intact.
When I am slogging through the mud, and the animals aren't cooperating, and things aren't coming together the way I want them to, and I don't have any help when I need it, I start to wonder if I made a mistake with this property. It would have been soooo much easier if we went with something smaller that already had a finished home on it, with fencing and maybe a barn or 2 on it. Where the plumbing was in, the electrical was finished, and all the insulation was covered. But, then, on those warm sunny days, when things are green and the birds are singing, I look around and I can't imagine living any where else.
I didn't find myself in this at all... I used to live with family around and I felt suffocated. Everyone had an opinion on what I should do with MY homestead and it drove me insane. I moved 200 miles away to get away from them and I've never been happier. I am making friends that are new to the area and that have similar ideas about what life should be like. And because we are all starting fresh, there is no one that thinks they can tell me what to do and how to do it.
I went through some of that and then my kids started moving their families to this little town, three states away. Oh and my new little town has a population of 1300, the entire county consists of 13,000. I'm not a super social person but have found if you do things for others it will build bonds. Do you have a farmers market? I'm helping to organize one for this spring and believe that will help forming more community...it's not for the money but mainly to meet people.
Volunteering for things you care about, is a good way to find like minded people.
Love these videos guys. Remember, you may not be as close as the people who have deep roots there, BUT your children will go to school there and grow there. Their roots eill be there and one day they will be in good in a very nice area. Thats so worth it.💗
My husband and I are in our 70s and over the last 50 years we have moved numerous times. Each move, whether out of town, out of state or out of country, it took at least 18 months to feel settled and connected with new friends.
Correct Jen and Zac..You can never go back to what was.. Moving foward and holding on to family is the most important thing in this life..Your family, is, your happiness..God bless Ya'll..🌹
👍💯❤🙏
It takes times for a small community to except new comers. I know I was a outsider too. I live here alone in this community. I got very sick 1/26/22. I didn't eat for 16 days I believe I died and came back. Let me tell you I have never felt so much love from this community. I didn't even know I counted in this community. I always felt like a lone!
Pray and ask God to bring the people that will be a mutual benefit to your family and theirs. Just give people time to adjust. We all have issues with change. Just keep being yourselves the right people will come. Lord bring the soul family that belongs here with us. Bless us with Harmony, support and love here. So all will be blessed. If their are people not for our highest and greatest good. God bless them wherever they go. We except only peace, love and Harmony in our family. Thank you Lord for these blessings!
People in small rural areas are bonded together by decades, if not a couple centuries, of the same families having each other’s back, sharing the same heartaches and horrible tragedies, particularly if it is not just small but also somewhat of a remote area. Newcomers can be polite and try to quietly fit in economically, religiously and politically, and will be accepted at arms length, but without the heartbreaking history, one will rarely have “tight” friendships. The multi-generational history is the bond.
That's how it is with all things. Nobody can ever go back to anything. The back part has changed and so have all of us. So back can't happen. We can run to the old home our parents or anywhere... for a visit. We are still loved and love them but everyone and everything has changed. 'Back' just can't happen.
It's so tuff dealing with growing pains.
We are blessed and found our forever home, even with plumbing problems and had to get a new well pump and new toilet and roof leak. We love it here, going on two years. he and I both from large families and we both used to cook Sunday dinners for them. It went from crowded houses and lots of noise to none of them have time to come see us. That's OK, in the middle of nowhere, we have peace and quiet-he's busy trucking, I'm loving the hermit life. Things I can't do myself-he helps when he gets home. No drama!
As a child, we moved to a small town. My parents were never accepted. We were kids, but never seen as FROM there. Someone once told us "if your grandparents aren't buried here, you aren't from here". 50 years later, we are still referenced by where we came from....
Needless to say, we all left. As did those that came after us, and those that came after them.
Maybe that's the lesson to me, as one who lives in a small town now. A really conscious decision to be welcoming to the new folks, and maybe they'll stay.
I love all your videos, keep up all the great work you do. I love it that you keep it REAL. Change can be hard but can also can be a good thing. Proud of you!
There are pros and cons to anything you do. Hind sight is 20/20, and while I feel we moved when we needed to, we were able to get this house for a good price. We didn't know they would push city boundaries to include our property. We didn't know that I would get sick with migraines and vertigo. We didn't know so much, and had I known then what I know now, I probably would have encouraged my husband to focus more on land than house, etc.
Making friends can be difficult, and family is irreplaceable, no matter how difficult those relationships can be at times. I am extremely introverted, so it's very difficult to make close friends.
I live in the same town that you do. I'm 49, born and raised here. It made me really sad to hear that you tried to make friends but it just didn't happen. To be honest, it's not you at all. You have a lovely family. This town is backwards in general. Always has been. Set in its stubborn ways I guess you can say. I Pray hopefully down the road that changes for you guys and you make the friends that you deserve. Much Love and Prayers.
Boy did this hit home!..l❤
I remember this happening to me many years ago - regarding the actual house. We had big regrets for a while. Two years? As for friends - if your little town was familiar with your UA-cam videos it would fast track you to new friends. I have no doubt about that bc you are wonderful people and fun people. The only thing you are missing is a history in the town. You don’t have that but you have your videos and people will watch and feel like you are already a friend.
Friends come and go but family are the ones that have your back.
Oh yes. We moved 5 years ago and the rose colored glasses are fully off. It's rough, but change always is. I'm glad you posted this because we are not alone.
I would love to see a video of you twenty years from now, watching this video and commenting on it. Before long your home will become home… it took us probably 6-7 years before we felt “at home” again. But now I look back 22 years ago and think “man what a ride.”
I'm from a town like the one you moved to, population 2400. When "strangers" moved into the area, they were "strangers", the old folks would call the foreigners. You moved into a mindset, you moved into a way of life and you moved into a tight knit community that has known each other for decades. It's not that they are unwilling to be friends with you, it just takes time. You mentioned that you had attended multiple churches. Pick the one you like most and keep going. Take the preacher some brownies or cookies every so often. Volunteer for Anything that needs a volunteer. When your gardens start producing show up to church with a box of veggies that are free for anyone and ask the preacher to announce it from the pulpit. In the Spring show up to church with a bouquet of flowers that can sit on the alter and after church give it to one of the little old ladies or a nice family. (My aunt used to do that every Sunday) Keep showing up and showing up and it will happen. You prayed about this move, I know you did. God put you where you are for a reason.
So bribe them? I've lived in my hometown for 62 years now. And most all of my family has gone home to God now. Friends have moved away, or died. Found out some of my so called friends, weren't. People are just so stand offish now. I have tried to make new friends, but they just are so busy doing whatever anymore. They don't want to have real friends anymore. People think "friends" is Facebook or Twitter or whatever online thing their into. It's sad. And I'm talking about before all this madness of the last 2 years happened. I miss having friends come over, or us visiting them. Just having a close friend to talk to. So I know where your coming from Jen and Zak, I haven't moved. But I am living the same thing. But I know if I met you in person, I'd love to be your call me anytime friend. I know I'm old compared to you. But I know we'd have a blast.
Good advice Krickette! All we can do is be a beacon of light and people will be drawn to it. And even if they don't it doesn't matter, we have the Lord as our witness of our heart and our life. We were good neighbors and that is what matters.
Miss Lori Tanner, I have felt what you say too, especially after my divorce. I pray that it changes for you and you find the friend you need and want.
I moved to where most are related to each other..anyone moved here..are outsiders..i am mostly friends with others that moved here..from with the state or from out of state.
Krickette. ..this is exactly the very best advice. I especially agree that they need to choose a church with God's help and go regularly and always smile and say hello . It does take time for people don't get discouraged . Give kindness ad trust God for the rest.
@@loritanner4478 No Lori, Gestures of Friendship, it IS what we are talking about here. I'm 55 years old, I've lived in my current town (population maybe 300) since 2011. My daughter married and moved away and I realized that other than my hubby and my farm animals I had no one around me to talk to. I also realized it was because I had failed to put myself out there and make friends. I've attended multiple local fire department fundraisers, went in did my 'duty' and left. I've attended 3 local churches but none of them on a consistent basis. Go in, sit at the back and leave before everyone else did. I am part of an online yard sale group that meets every Friday at the fairgrounds in the next city over so I started showing up on Fridays and talking to people. It wasn't long before I was invited to coffee with a group of them, then I was invited to a picnic with that same group, and it's grown from there. Now I know most of them by name, where their hubbys' work etc. Two of them have become good friends in the last few months. We have a girls day once a month, we get together with our hubby's and do motorcycle rides etc. None of this would have happened if I hadn't decided to put myself out there. I had to walk into that yard sale group and start the conversations myself. If You are lonely Lori, go make a friend. Don't let the current "crisis" stop you from having fun and enjoying life. My momma always told me that if you want to have a friend you need to be a friend and she was right.
Thats awesome you have a great supportive family. My husband and I have a very small couple people we can truly rely on (literally 2). We didnt more really far from our hometown, but one of the reasons we moved is because the neighborhoods we grew up in weren't great, & a lot of them are in and out of jail & doing drugs so we still dont have old friends... & weve had trouble making new ones. I hope to at least pass down those traits with my kids of having a close family, people you can rely on, etc. So at least my children & grandchildren can have that!
Growing towards the sun is like a beautiful flower opening up, but looking back every now and again you can see your roots. It just keeps you grounded. Enjoy your past and future!
I've been living here in Iowa for a good 14 years and still have not made any friendships .I'm not originally from here so it made it very difficult,but I have made some babies and they are my best friends now.
Wow, you hit on all my same topics! I moved 2 hours South of the old home, friends and family, then have struggled with a tiny town, finding a church, making friends from people that have lived here for generations. After years, I sort of withdrew and focused on my own happiness just as covid hit. Now two more years later, I’m trying to get my friends and family to visit. Make my place more beautiful and more welcoming as I’m still open to making friends if they fall out of the sky! Moving away from where you grew up and have friends and family will be a social shock for about a decade! In five years, I can count on one hand how many times I’ve had a friend or family at my house on a Friday! Saturday is the day and sometimes they stay all night and go home by Sunday noon. There is a lot of fun things to do here, and it’s a good tourist area. Crickets
I can so relate. Grew up in a very tight and huge family, always being in each other's lives.
Left my home at 21 yrs to get married and live on a different continent.
At this point, no real regrets, but I sure miss home
We just left our off grid property in middle TN and the universe brought us to KY. I found your family when I was trying to find KY homestead channels and I can't believe the similarities that are there as far as the whole journey...I miss so many things, too.. but I know there are a few key things that I do not miss..and that keeps me going forward with knowing we made the right decision to sell. We're in between ... After having woods were in a townhouse and it takes effort to not go nuts while we wait for everything to align to get approval for a new property here. But all the while, I can't tell you how much your channel has kept me inspired, hopeful and faithful in the future.My husband and I hope one day we can meet you because we keep saying how many things we laugh about due to it being crazy that you went through the same things we did! Thanks for being real and sharing so much .. it's been a major help to me during these couple of months.
We moved across the country into a small town in January 2020. 2 years later we are doing alright, but still miss alot. Our church has been a huge encouragement and accepted us well, even though "we ain't from around here". We are a few months from having the compound we have always wanted. My parents and Hubby's parents along with our adult siblings all on 12 acres together. Working on homesteading and creating a safe place to thrive together.
So many things have changed since y’all’s move. People just aren’t the same. I’m still in the same town and people have changed significantly. However we moved approximately 12 years ago and it’s still not the same here. We lived on family fruit orchard that had been in the family for 6 generations. The neighborhood just got too bad. I like where I’m at now but don’t love it the same. We could grow anything we wanted there but struggle with good soil here. Plus there’s subdivisions going up all around us and I hate that. I love the rural country life. However now I’m in no situation to move again. Just making the best of it. 😊
Oh ok
Oh, man, THIS! Family is always our number one. We moved back to my little hometown after many years away, and it's not the same. But I have family here and need to be here for them. It will never be the same, but we have family close for the first time in ages. It'll get better. Change is hard, even when it's for the better.
I wish we lived closer to yall...it would be an honor to be friends with yall. You're right, you can't go back...my sweet Daddy died almost 5 years ago and it's never been the same since he passed. Our families had our own little "compound", everybody living right beside each other, taking left overs to each other for supper, Sunday dinners at Granny Nez's house. I miss all of that. Makes me cry!
This is from 2 years ago. BUT this is so spot on! I grew up in a small town and moved to a smaller town about 1.5 hrs away about 8 years ago now. We have yet to make great friends. We have befriended our neighbors but other than that, nothing. It's heart breaking and can feel very isolating. If you have family willing to make the trip and have the room for them to stay, definitely embrace that! I wish our friends and family came to visit us more often. Now we are looking to move back "home"
I hope everything works out for y’all. We moved about 10 years ago and we still don’t have “friends” that we could call to come over. It’s hard to find those true friends when you have kids involved and you want good people around. I hope y’all can get your family back close to y’all again. 💕 God bless
Definitely beautiful country where you are. I think you made the right decision even with the issues.
I’ve wondered why your fam wasn’t there much! I’m so happy you’re sharing your small town experience, some things you just don’t know until you experience them!
What a sweet visit! We moved to a smaller town almost 8 years ago and our whole world has been turned upside down little by little ever since. We somehow still love where we are. The strange thing is that we don't get to live a snapshot life and no matter how much we loved a certain stretch there's just no going back. We try to appreciate the good memories and we try to make good new memories and hold it all loosely. Tomorrow's never a guarantee and we can't go back to yesterday so that just leaves today..
Your blessed with a nice home. I'm living in my van and having a blast. It's my HAPPY PLACE.
Aww, you guys have your youtube family
We are here for you.
Our town of 3000+ is very nice but a portion is very clicky too. Yes family is more important!!💙 Feel for you.
I feel the same way we have been in our town for almost seven years and I have yet to make a decent friend. Everyone is related to everyone so we are still the outsiders. Our closest friends and family are 3 hours away so it makes it really hard some days.
I've moved 2000 miles away from my family and dont regret it. My husband and I move with the idea of what's best for us and our children. It was a tough choice but the best choice. It's best not to reminisce on the past. Look to the future.
We moved six years ago from a heavily populated area to what we thought was a suburb that was much more quiet. Now six years later it is hustling bustling and you can hardly leave the neighborhood without traffic traffic. But we find other routes to get out of the neighborhood now to avoid the red lights in the lines but things are growing. When you’re in a big city people want to get out of it. We did get much more for our money then we could have in the city where we live. So things change and you do the best you can.
Hubby and I moved to a country setting 5 1/2 years ago and if it weren't for our large family visiting often it would probably be kinda lonesome. I'm glad we have cookouts and get-togethers as we always have. We're going on 60 now and appreciate family more and more.
Wow, speaking directly to me. We put our home of 28 years on the market this Thurs up north. We've never lived anywhere else but CT. It's going to be heartbreaking to leave family and friends, but we aren't real social people anyway. We usually see family a few times a year, friends about the same. We bought 25 acres down south a year and half ago and have been working on our infrastructure. We have already met so many Wonderful people we believe God has placed in our path. Although it will be bitter sweet to leave we are so excited and terrified at the same time. Thanks for sharing
This is very timely and your honesty resonated with me. I'm in a two year process of coming to grips with the big move off a mini farm, to a bigger city. I moved for a job transfer that has been really horrible. I had some really rough times and wanted to go back. I knew it wouldn't be the same, my heart was broken. At the same time I became an empty nester, after being a single mum. I have made a few really good friends, walking the dog around the neighbourhood helped. I think its like a grieving process that we have to work through, we grieve those things we lost. We have to acknowledge and accept the losses. I liked how you encouraged and gave good advise to your viewers, not just your story. Like you said make a list of the positives and how you can change the house, lifestyle or family circumstances to make you happier, help create new memories and the feeling like your finally home.
Someone said the same thing in one of my Facebook homesteading groups. I want to move to the country but I am a bit of a loner and it's just not that easy for me to make friends. I don't know.
I think with any big life decision there comes questions as to whether it was the right thing to do. I can tell you that this will pass and you will go back to being happy about your move.. I closed on my house March 29th which is a year ago today 2021. I just started having a lot of anxiety lately Lee and I'm not sure why but I love my house and I don't have a mortgage And there are things I want to do to make it more my own and my own style.. It's taken me a year to get curtains hung by my care giver can't give her because I'm disabled and the end she comes 7 days a week. I have no living family or close friends so so this is all on my on my own. And I was very content until recently but I will figure it out and so will you! God-bless you and your family. :)
I totally feel this. We moved to our little town 4 years ago and still don't have friends in town. It's a very tight community with no need for newcomers. I think this happens a lot to folks that move to small communities. I am so grateful for our online homesteading communities like the Stive Tribe. Hearing from other likeminded people really helps put things into perspective and lets you know that you're not alone. Ya'll are awesome! Thanks for sharing those venerable moments with us. You are not alone, luckily you don't live 1800 miles from family and are able to get that wonderful family connection. It will get easier, especially if you are spending more time with the people who really love you.
As a person who has always lived in a rural small town (northern MN under 400 ppl and the next town is 45 min away from my home) ..... I can see this. We are really closed off and I admit it. I think its a little fear? And just kinda not wanting ur home to change? Outside folks change things, a lot. Sometimes for the good..... but most often I hate to say it, NOT. You guys are so kind tho I cant imagine folks not opening up to you. Our area gets a lot of city cabin folks.... and our lifestyles just arent the same.... they just arent. I love ur honesty.... I think with this huge migration of city or larger town folk going to rural areas this is timely. Weve been here for ever.... give us time too.... its such a strange time for a lot of ppl i think those that moved and those of us they moved by too.
It took seven years for us to become accepted into a community in Wyoming. Be patient it will happen. God bless you and yours.
I get it. I moved to the country and still have only met 1 neighbor.
It broke my heart when you said you all had not made friends. Your family seems so precious, a friendship with you all would be a blessing. My family is in the process of moving back to my husband's hometown of Williamsburg Ky. I will be praying for our paths to cross, and a friendship to build. (I guess I should mention I'm not a stalker LOL just a God fearing wifey, and momma to five little miracles.) Keep your heads up and please keep sharing your journey you are helping and inspiring so many!
Looks like you will be 30 min. away, maybe set up a meet and greet.
Thank you for your honesty! So many homestead channels and social media accounts show these amazing lives with these amazing things. Then someone like me is finally able to move (from Baltimore area) to my "retirement homestead" (I decided to rush and get here before retirement). I moved in October. And I could not be happier (unless my grown kids were able to move next door. That's the only thing that could make this more wonderful). I've never been happier, more peaceful, .... more full of faith (a new thing for me). But there is an element of... the "newness" and the excitement of the move has subsided. And I look around and wish I had this or that accomplished already (more garden space in... the half built chicken coop done... the half stained deck finished...and the "construction zone" look gone). So I totally get it! The fairytale newness is worn off. It's still totally a dream come true for me but it is different now. --- You know... I think that means that this is truly home now. -- I am so appreciative of videos like this. The reality that everyone else isn't living an "Instagram" picture perfect life and I don't have to try to be perfect either.
They say you can never go home again. You now understand what that means. I learned it the hard way too as we all must. Glad to see you are getting to the next step, as I have and looking to make your house a home, you home a community and your living a life worth fond memories. Good luck, be safe, when in doubt, love more, worry less and grow something.
You guys are wonderful and I love how you share your stories ..the good and bad. I want so much to have what you all have...we got sheisted into moving to SW Kansas last June by a broker out here...promised us and lied to us. We were in my husband's home state of East Tennessee...Knoxville. We just wanted to move northeast in the state...more country than city but couldn't find anything in our budget and were homeless after having our house sold out from under us so we had to make a decision and ended up out here. We both dislike it very much...mainly cause of the lies and not having what we needed here. Now we're trying so hard to get back out East...even been trying central South Kentucky cause the prices in Tenn are far out crazy. We have two offers right now on this place and still not found what you all have. We don't want acreage with a mobile...we want a Farmhouse and 10-15acres would be great. Cant find it. Now my husband found a place in central Georgia...really don't want to go that far south but its looking like a possibility as again we have no choice unless we stay here and thats a No. I enjoy watching and learning from you guys. Really was hoping to find something near your neck of the woods but its just not there I guess. Prayers and God's Blessings to you and your families.
Hello Jen and Zack. Glad for this video . We moved to our home on an acre July 9th, 2021. We had chickens and was so excited but the neighbors dog killed our chickens not once but twice so no chickens anymore. Cold winter has giving me seasonal depression. This video helps . My daughter got our mobilehome when we bought our homestead so I see my old place but yes it's different now. We went from the city to a small country town. Really only have one real friend here. Everyone has to travel atleast an hour to come see us. Depressing being so far from family. Nice to know I'm not the only one feeling this way. Take care.
Moving to a new place & finding your tribe is definitely hard. Especially with being a stay at home farm mom! Just know one day hopefully soon you will find your people. 💕 We’ve been at our new farm for almost 2 years now & I have found a lovely group (literally 2 fellow farming mamas) who share the same values as myself. I would suggest if you have a local town group to maybe post in that group. We also have a very small town (around 5k people) I joke around have more cows than neighbors. But, everyone knows who we are because I post from our farm page to our town page weather it be a silly story, or sharing some food or asking for help. Please don’t hesitate to put yourself out there. Someone is looking to befriend you.
Our last home was that way, the land and house were more than I ever thought we’d have but the community just did not work (annnd the weather was so humid I was avoiding going outside which is unhealthy) we were there 7 years and made a move here in 2019. I love every acre of it everyday, we are still slowly reaching into the community (once bitten twice shy) but we are really grateful that our welcome here has been entirely better. So I feel like I kinda know how your feeling with the new fitting in part and I will be praying that time and family will lead to many happy memories and maybe a few wonderful local friends too. ❤️ you put such love into each project.
We moved to WNC, 1/3 mi from SC stateline, almost 10 yrs ago. From East Haven CT. Thats wifes' birthplace, she would not want to go back. This is country living. I' m from Lancaster Co, PA.
Grew up on 30 acre produce farm. 3 acres here in NC. 🗽
This is a hard time for so many young couples. The events of the past few years have caused many to feel isolated and to feel like everyone else is living their good life while you’re alone. Social media is great in some ways and I love our homestead community but there is nothing like actual “face” time. Hugs, laughter, friendships are sorely needed and hard to come by. Platitudes don’t help. I’m older and ok staying home and being alone a lot. But at your age, I would have been miserable. Farming in itself breeds isolation. Covid, moving, homeschooling, small town living all do also. You have a right Jenn to feel as you do. It’s very real what you’re going thru. Thousands upon thousands of other young couples, my kids included, are right there with you. Surround yourselves with family love. God bless you both. My saying is, things won’t always be like this. This Grannie’s heart feels your hurt and will ask the Lord for brighter days.
When I attended college, one of our daily reminders.was: "Keep on keeping on." Whether it's your daily time in God's Word, prayer, work, study, relationships, etc. Still my reminder. Thank you for filling a little corner of my heart while I'm going through some of the same life changes! Love and prayers to you.
I was in my town of 3-400 for 13 years when a couple of ladies came by with a “welcome basket”.
We moved to a small town in April 2021 making new friends are hard for us also everyone lives her there whole life also so it’s hard to enter peoples circle of friends . I hope in time that we make friends and hope the same for y’all!!
When we moved out to our property we missed our social life a great deal and when things were hard I would have dreams (literally) of my old home and the back porch that held so many memories. We've made new memories but we are still not part of the closest community. It can be hard at times but fortunately we had my mother in law live with us for fourteen years and that was golden. Change brings challenges but through challenge we become stronger!!
"Every hardship we have, we make the best of it". I love that attitude! "Life isn't about what it hands you, it's about what you do with what it hands you". I can't remember who said that to me but it is so true and that's your way of thinking. Awesome.
I love y’all! Just down to earth, good country people! Keep on keeping on! Y’all have made so much progress!
I love the honesty and hard look at your lives you two are willing to do. AND your willingness to share that with us. We moved to a remote location 25 years ago. The neighbors were suspicious of us, we were isolated and we had three young children. However, over the years, newer people moved in and we became part of the established population. I now believe if any of us needed each other we would help rather than harm each other. When we first got here we weren't sure of that. Also, our three kids are now adults who thought they wanted to leave home and live in the city. That didn't last long. Two are back and one is on his way once he finishes law school. Our little homestead has now become a compound. We spent the last couple of years building outdoor community areas for gathering. I guess what I'm saying is it just takes time. You're the newbies right now but the locals will eventually warm to you when there are newer people. And then you can befriend old and new. And your own kids will eventually need their own places. Hopefully they will either come home or at least want a vacation home on the place. For us introverts, that's plenty! In the meantime, you guys have us, your virtual friends. And we love you and what you do.
Being around family is good for the soul your mental health is the most important thing
As the old saying goes. " make the best out of the present situation your in." For my family and I we understand. God Bless Ya'll
Blessing's and a grateful heart! :) Maybe you'll meet some cool people when you get your shop "Grand Opening"! My only regret is not moving farther out with more acreage! Have 10, should have bought 40 ;)
My husband and I bought our 1st house, what we thought was going to he our forever home, but - you put it perfectly- "when the dust settled" there were a lot fo things that came to light. There were also alot of things I thought wouldnt bother me or that I could deal with- that does bother me... so weve decided to stay here about 5-6 years, & then to start looking for a new home. I also want more property to try to grow my cutflower business.
I have gone through this exact same thing with our move 2 years ago. This was timely and I thank you. Peace, love, light, and blessings to y’all!
Hello from northern KY! Looking for land to call home. I've got family in Beattyville 💜 happy to find your channel and looking forward to learning from your adventures! Best to your family 🥰
We live in Northeast Tennessee. I'm originally from Southwest Virginia. [we saw yall at the Fair back in August :)] Even still being in the city we have mostly grown up in, it is still hard to belong. We live in a shed to home on my husband's family land. There are still times I don't feel like I belong even out here. His family is very much of that old Appalachian mindset of trust no one unless they are us. And that mindset is sooooooo prevalent around these here parts. Stick to your guns and the right people will be your community.
Y’all look so healthy and happy. Good looking couple. Love your honesty and transparency. You are both so intelligent and you articulate difficult topics with such ease and Grace. Thank you for being vulnerable to share your experiences that touches so many lives.
I moved from a city to a small town of 2, 000 I have no friends here but I have some family here I still travel 45 miles to go to the church I love and see my church family and have a great pastor love u guys
Love this! After coal mines shut down and we moved from SE KY to central we thought we were moving to a rural smaller town, nope... no one waves, no one likes our homestead, it's horrible. It took me 12 years to make friends back home then we had to move. Now we are moving back towards the mountains as soon as we can. We have actually looked in Barbourville and sE of Corbin but decided to not change jobs. I miss friends, we have no family in our state. In 16 plus years we have had visitors maybe 4-5x. Since we went to making our own food 100% of the time, prepping... it set us apart from others. We finally found a good church where we want to move, but they don't have any kids lol well just 1. I'm praying for a new homestead to come available and God to bring other families to the church. I lived 26 years with 3 sisters and my mom there almost daily, we had kids together. The last 16 years have been hard and I'd love to have that community or even that compound you'll had. I love my not so little family though and we have fun together. We have been blessed with lots and I know one day we can find friends if it's God's will. My heart goes out to you guys. Struggles are there but blessings are abundant
I was a city girl and I married a farmer. When we moved to the farm , I cried never having lived in the country. Fast forward 52 years later we are loving living in the country. We raised two children . Our daughter lives in Virginia and our son lives in Texas. We don’t have grandchildren. My husband just celebrated 81 years , and I celebrated 79 years. We enjoy watching your videos so much we love you all. God bless your family.
Small town living can be very difficult to break into. As an army brat that went to thirteen different schools across the country, I was always an outsider. You will carve your niche and locals will seek you out on their terms. Give them time. In the meantime, live your lives to the fullest on your terms. God sees us all.
Very true, you kind of have to stay busy living, then the folks start to mix when they feel like it, it does take awhile in a small town but you won’t be the new folks for long.
I SOOOO get the small town aspect. I'm from a small town in a different state, moved to Houston then moved to the small town life in a different area. It has been very hard. Relationships are already established, family lives around family and there is no room for the new for the deep relationships. You are always an outsider.
I was moved by our parents along with my 8 siblings (me being the oldest), to a town of 1000 pop when I was 13.
Now decades later none of us live there. When we graduated everyone of us left asap.
As you mentioned, everyone there was born there as well, they didn’t want outsiders and we’re not afraid or ashamed to say it.
My brother and sister who were great basketball players were always benched when scouts were around.
Maybe the reason my sister got her Doctor’s degree and my brother goes around the US telling his story to young people about not letting small minded people get in the way or your growth and happiness.
I personally left and didn’t look back.
Only reason I would go to that forsaken town, was to visit my parents. I Never spend a dime there, always took my mom out of that town for the day.
If you stay make sure your kids are getting a fair shake at everything in school, talk with them.
We found out much, much later the biggest bullies were the darn grownups even the teaching staff.
All my siblings have stories, the kind that nightmares are made of.
Not to scare you, but make sure you get a good open conversation with your kids and be alert. 😉
My husband, myself & our kids (and pets) just packed up and moved from Concord, NH to Texas. Like last month, right after our new baby was born. We have nobody here except his grandparents that live almost 2 hours away. We have 5 acres of land where we can have farm animals which was super important to us, but our neighbors on both sides are junk hoarders and have dogs/cats just running loose constantly on our property which I didn’t expect. We too are very nervous, and feeling like even though we love it here and like the weather better, this is all so scary and we feel totally alone. We are hoping to upgrade to a bigger lot in a different area in a few years but for now we are stuck here and need to make it the best we can. I’m glad I’m not the only one that feels a little helpless and like things need to change.
Thank you so much for sharing!! I am going through this since our move from Michigan to Tennessee. This helped me see that I need to soul search and recreate the life I want!!!
Love you guys! Your honesty is amazingly refreshing. Such a blessing.