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Hi Liz and any other sufferers of fatigue etc. I've recently found The Optimal Health Clinic, London. They specialise in fatigue and related conditions - many of them have suffered themselves - and they have LOADS of free material available to try to reach everyone that needs it! Worth checking it out!
You could also have titled this episode "How to continue to be productive despite fatigue or health conditions." You rest but you DON'T quit! Very inspiring.
I unwind watching your video's, Liz! I have chronic fatigue from past burn out and I need to do pacing as well. I like this quote by Banksy: "If you get tired, learn to rest, not quit."
I noticed that I got really burned out a couple of weeks ago. I think there was a stretch where I didn't go into the garden for three days, and I usually go three to four times a day. I had to keep reminding myself that this is work and that all work must be countered with rest. Thank you for this lovely video, was fun to go on your morning routine with you!
Thank you so much for sharing this - particularly that you leave some jobs half done for the sake of your health. I find it so hard not to push myself through to finishing jobs, long after I should have gone inside. My number one adaptation for gardening as a Spoonie is my heavy duty trolley - the kind with proper tyres and fold-down sides for carrying large pots, or landscaping stone. I use it at all times, even when I'm just dead-heading, so that I never have to carry anything myself, but also so that, with the sides down and a cushion, I have a comfy seat to sit on at all times. As long as the tyres are nice a full, it practically bounces after me - very easy to pull. I'm in a similar situation with chronic conditions which limit my time on my feet (without fainting) and keeps me house-bound when I'm getting my regular treatments, bed-bound when I'm not (as in the past 10 months, because of Covid pressure on the hospitals). While not exactly homesteading, we built and moved into a new house 2 years ago, with a garden from which I am hoping to be able to contribute to our household by growing fruit and veg, and, eventually, chicken eggs. It is so hard, emotionally, to not be contributing to finances but the joy of cooking and eating food I have grown overshadows that, tenfold. Now I just need to work out how to plant for a continuous supply, rather than the feast-and-famine I've had so far - but that will have to wait till my treatments begin again, and I can count on some form of routine, again.
I was diagnosed with Fibromyalgia 18 yrs ago and now at the age of 59 I’m only just getting the message into my head about pacing myself. Lockdown showed me this as I was unable to go to work. My job is as a housekeeper. I have two clients with huge houses in which I cook, clean and launder. Plus some nannying. I then return home to do gardening, do my own housework and help my husband with rearing pheasants and partridges. I thought if I fought it and didn’t give in to it I would win and the Fibromyalgia would loose. The pain was horrendous. So for me lockdown showed how to listen to my body. I have reduced my housekeeping hours and also employed an assistant. It means I can enjoy my garden, third of an acre, and chickens much more and it’s so rewarding when you bring in the harvest and store. All the best to everyone. Thank you. 🙏🏻
I've had rheumatoid arthritis since I was a child, last few years it's gotten really bad and I've learnt how important rest is. It's hard not to get down about it as I'm still only young and people don't realize how much pain I'm in sometimes
I'm watching this while stuck in bed having a huge flare up from doing too much this last two weeks so it's quite relevant haha. I've had M.E , orthostatic and autonomic nervous system issues for 22 years, the last couple of years the most severe, so pacing and rest, as you mention, is basically the only way to get anything done. I can usually do 3-5 hours of 'activity' in 24 hours spilt into 30 min chunks with bed rest in between and make sure to do one physical task then one mental task as you said. It gives your body and brain time to rest in between. It does leave a lot of things half done though 😂 I'm sure people find many different ways to rest and relax but with the severity of my illnesses watching youtube or even writing text messages counts as 'activity' so one tip is if you find you don't feel rested or refreshed, look into what you're actually doing with that 'rest' time and if it's still draining your energy in some way. We spend so much time in front of screens, I don't think even healthy people realise how draining it is. We all need more time just switched off. A cuppa in the garden looking over the countryside is my favourite way to relax and winter always makes things a bit more difficult being stuck inside 24/7. I'm hoping to get a chair in my greenhouse once it's empty so I can enjoy it for a little longer at least :D
We have a chair in the vegetable garden just for this purpose. To take sit down, drink a cup of tea and enjoy the view. We even put a bamboo couch in the greenhouse for parts of the year.
I also am struggling to be productive, and it is encouraging to watch what you are doing on a daily basis. Something for me to strive to. Thank you and stay well!
I watch you (and Jess at Roots and refuge, Huw and Charles) to help me with burnout. You make me feel like it’s okay to not feel awesome all the time but that you can still be productive and successful. Thank you for sharing your tips, I think they’ll be helpful!
This is a great video Liz...I have never come across a gardening video that talks about burnout. Great tips...sometimes I go full force and don't stop to refocus or do other tasks between gardening...
I hear you very much as I struggle with these things plus cancer and other diseases have slowed me down. I sit down, rest, watch you tubers like yourself and I have learnt soooo much!! Then I am up and back at it till I need my next rest. Gardening is so good for the soul and our mood. Bless u x
My husband also reacts to loss of sunlight. We wouldn't make it without vitamin D3! Plus last winter we did add a full spectrum light as well and he could feel the difference in a very short time. Some evenings even admitting that he just needed to go sit under his light for awhile. For myself, I only have one strategy and that is to break everything down into small tasks that will in time equal a finished project. Every time I cross some small task off the list, it gives me the motivation to keep going.
Thank you, Liz- I really needed to see this today. I appreciate your candor and honesty with regards to the combination of autoimmune conditions and the seasonal transition. I’ve always struggled this time of year; having had far more time outside over this past spring and summer, I’m really feeling the change. Thanks for reminding me that it’s okay to feel this way and how essential self care truly is.
I thought you might like this poem by Robert Frost. My sorrow, when she’s here with me, Thinks these dark days of autumn rain Are beautiful as days can be; She loves the bare, the withered tree; She walks the sodden pasture lane. Her pleasure will not let me stay. She talks and I am fain to list: She’s glad the birds are gone away, She’s glad her simple worsted grey Is silver now with clinging mist. The desolate, deserted trees, The faded earth, the heavy sky, The beauties she so truly sees, She thinks I have no eye for these, And vexes me for reason why. Not yesterday I learned to know The love of bare November days Before the coming of the snow, But it were vain to tell her so, And they are better for her praise.
Thanks you Liz for your openness in sharing about your health issues and SAD. It’s so relevant to me. I was full of energy this summer and took on an allotment and went at it full blast. Now that the darker days have arrived I seem to have lost my mojo and lack energy. Thank you for the reminder to rest. My motto is to take it easy but do it. I love watching your videos and you’re homestead. I’m over the bridge in Somerset. Stay safe Liz - your an inspiration in this video
I truly enjoy seeing your routines there. It's so relaxing. A few years back, I found myself getting extremely tired just doing simple things. I was VERY low on B12 and Vitamin D--the doctor put me on supplements and that has helped tremendously.
A couple of days ago when it was grey and cool, I really didn't feel like going to the plot! I went anyway and did smaller jobs, but the weather does affect your mood!
Liz, great insight! First thing I do is remember I’m not invincible! For years I believed I was! 😂 Also to a huge chunk of people I am dispensable! So I concentrate on minding myself for those who care about me. I try to practice balance, rest and boundaries. ‘When I can; I do, when I can’t; I don’t.’ (And without guilt.)It is how it is. 😄🤗 And meds.... just so no one thinks it’s easy! 🤷♀️
Thank you so much for sharing about your health struggles. You have given me great reassurance that I can garden successfully and I don't have to do everything in one go. God bless you.
I've spent more time outside than ever before this year so the loss of sunlight has really knocked me for six. I've had something important to do this week that doesn't even relate to gardening but i've been putting it off for too long. Its only today that I managed to pull my finger out and get it sorted. After that I harvested some of my french beans and carrots and made a big pot of soup with them and my potatoes plus some chicken, sausages, herbs and spices, etc. The family loved it. I found that helped.
Yoga with adriene. Right on you tube! I do it in the morning and it boosts my energy so much it's hard to believe. She even has beginner videos and yoga for gardeners! You won't believe the difference.
This is such an important message, thank you for talking about it! When I was recovering from pneumonia earlier in the year, working in the garden was a lifeline for my mental health but I had to acknowledge that my strength and stamina were lacking. Recognising when you need help and when you need rest is really important to be able to complete projects and carry on enjoying what you're doing. I also enjoy rotating my interests (I like to think of it as being a 'serial hobbyist') and that keeps things fresh and the motivation high. I hope that you are able to ride out your SAD well this coming winter. You have plenty there to distract you and help keep your spirits high. As you know, spending time outdoors does wonders for the soul.
I don't think you said it directly, but the biggest take-away for me was to allow what is to be what is. When we had wildfires, and their resulting smoke, I was frustrated with myself and my asthma. I fretted about not having the physical ability to do what needed to be done in my garden. Your calm, peaceful delivery of your tips helps me to remember that I don't have to do it all - and that's ok. I do what I can, when I can, and the rest I have to allow to go undone. Thank you for the gentle reminder. You're the best!
I also struggle with SAD and I know how hard it can be. Love your videos, I learn much from them, thank you for sharing them. I've never seen a triple yoked egg, very cool. Wish I had ducks but, yeah another job. I'm proud of your preserverance and dedication to be a caretaker of the land and animals. Important jobs. You're in my prayers to keep motivated all year round as well as having time for yourself
Thanks for sharing your day. Even though I do not suffer currently from any serious ailments unlike yourself, I do work full time and never have enough time to spend in the garden. I use the same system as you though, do a job or part of it, then have a break.
Thank you for sharing! Watching your channel, and other gardening channels on youtube, and of course working in my garden, has been a huge part of my recovery from a burn out this spring and summer. 🙏 So important to take time for a pause. Nice!
I have 2 interests, gardening and music. I have COPD, allergies, asthma and arthritis. I’m also on the spectrum. I got interested in how you garden because of disability. I thought I was going to have to give up gardening entirely. I watch Huw Richards and Charles Dowding too. I incorporate ideas from all three. I don’t do everything in one day. I schedule taking care of my dog everyday and myself. She’s small so walking doesn’t have to be far. I mow one day and maybe weed one part of my yard. The next day if necessary I water and pull a few weeds somewhere else. Very few things mature at the same time so I just wait. I prep on Tuesdays normally. I take Wednesday to assess my life and do something fun. Thursday’s are laundry days. Friday I clean my house and it’s only 1200 sq feet so it’s not that bad. Saturday I rest and spend time with my daughter and grandchildren. Sunday I give the dog a bath and groom her if needed. Sunday is my game day. I like Animal Crossing on the older wii. Every evening I practice piano except Saturday and Sunday. Before bed I journal. Every single day even if it’s a bit cloudy I go outside for at least 15 minutes. The sunshine keeps me sane. I eat a diet free of lactose and some animal proteins that cause allergies. I entirely stay away from processed foods. MSG, high fructose corn syrup and soy products give me headaches and more pain.
Thank you, Liz ! I appreciate your sincere and practical sharing ! I use Meditation to keep my mind calm and Tai Chi to keep my body healthy and full of energy.
I was topping up raised beds for winter and fibromyalgia stopped me in my track's for a few days with load's of work to be done but us humans with illnesses must keep going because it's so easy to get down. Keep going,keep fighting and our food garden's will keep us strong and healthy....
Good advice, Liz! I've divided my garden into zones and assigned days of the week for each. Of course, there are a lot of things that need tending daily, but as far as things on a "to do" list, it really helps keep me from being overwhelmed.
I struggle as well to stay motivated. With many health issues I can excuse myself from the daily grind. I am always thankful when I push through and get out to the garden
Got this quote from someone on UA-cam. When your tired, rest & reset. I say this to myself a lot. Been watching you for a while, but wandering when your chickens went. Sorry if you have said in a past video. I watch you while cooking, otherwise your restful voice makes me sleepy. You are so calming. Take care & rest. It's cold already. Regards from Northamptonshire.
Excellent video Liz I'm an active but arthritic 72 year old , I also suffer with sad and at times do more than I should I only have 4 large raised beds and two greenhouses , but with an almost 3 year old border collie who likes to run I'm lucky to live in Cornwall surrounded by fields and close to beaches . I find you so inspirational you constantly re energise me to carry on , so thank you , I eagerly await your next video
Very good, thanks! I find myself doing similar things. I have found that watching someone else like you do gardening it stirs some motivation in me and gets me off the couch.
I love watching your videos and have learned so much from them. I am partially sighted and have balance problems after complications following a brain tumour. Both eyesight problems and brain injury cause fatigue so it was great to hear you say you don’t have to finish a task and stop frequently for rests! As well as gardening I enjoy painting, sewing and crochetMy tip is stop before you are worn out as there is always just one more thing to do and do all the things you enjoy doing first, I have to do this as my vision is so poor after lunch. And there is nothing worse than looking forwards to something and then not being able to do it!
Thanks Liz It's great knowing I'm not the only one that has to learn to pace myself because my health has changed. From the person that can do it all to now a person that has to stop and take loads of breaks. Some days feeding is all that can get done.
Thank you for this. I sometimes feel overwhelmed by the weeds getting too much. I am learning in the garden. Still lots to learn on preserving. Between full time work and a flock of sheep and associated paperwork I don't get enough garden time. Wee breaks and changing jobs does help. Also just had to say I have a lot of nettles and it's so satisfying pulling up their long bright yellow roots!!
I recently bought a small farm and found your channel. I’m just hooked. I hope you post all winter as I learn about my own little piece of paradise through your experiences.
Welcome aboard Francesca! Yes I will be posting videos all through the winter, some filmed the week that they are published, some that have already been filmed as food for thought for the year ahead.
My rule of thumb is: do a little and do it often. If I try to do it all at once I end up exhausted! Especially if I have to do a lot of physical work, like wheel barrowing wood chips or manure... It's the heavy work I find hard these days, I'm no spring chicken 😂
I'm watching this video as I'm taking a day off after wheel barrowing (literally) a ton of compost and wood chips. I tend to get carried away with hard work like that. Little and often is a good rule of thumb!
It may sound simple but stretching or yoga in the morning will help prepare your mind and body for the day. The more you stretch your muscles the less sore you will be after physical activity.
What a refreshing video to watch. So many gardeners on UA-cam are so high in energy and I'm not. I'd love to grow more and do more but I have my good days and bad days. My biggest struggle is keeping up with the watering. I don't have irrigation hoses connected to my beds so it's dragging around the long garden hose and hiking up and down the property to turn taps on and off, or else use a watering can. I have bought some big black 60l bins that I've put next to my garden beds, I fill them with water when I have more energy and use water from those bins with the watering can so I don't need to walk or carry around much on the tired days. 😊
Hello Yolanda, sorry it's taken me so long to reply to your comment - hopefully late is better than never! I find those high energy videos exhausting to watch, especially if they talk really quickly without pausing for breath. So with any luck, you'll enjoy my gentle amble through gardening, plants and life on the smallholding.
Thank you for sharing this, I imagine this helps a lot of people. I am new to life with arthritis and am equally euphoric about and afraid of starting to garden/homestead. It’s lovely to see what you can do if you’re passionate about something.
You have such good advice on how to pace yourself. I also have autoimmune disease and I tend to overdo it when I work outside. I go out there and the hours just slip by until I've done too much and I can't go out again for a few days. I like the idea of going in for a cup of tea and a short time to read. I've recently had some success with going outside before breakfast, then I get hungry after an hour or so and I have to go in and sit down for a while. Thanks for addressing this topic.
Great video, Liz! I found that loading up on vitamin D during the wintertime really helped me with my winter blues and listlessness during the colder, darker months.
There are some benefits I get from stretching. It's not yoga, my yoga is my gardening. But stretching, whether 1 minute or 10 minutes seems to pop joy out of several places.
I so admire the amount you do in your garden and with the animals you do have. Animals can't just be left like the garden can be, they need daily attention. I only have about 4 hours of energy each day as I have M.E (diagnosed 28 yrs ago) & New Zealand winters are bad enough for me, I'm sure I'd be a sitter for SAD if I lived in certain places in the northern hemisphere. Some tricks I have, when I feel myself getting low are watching funny movies or videos, or animal videos. They always seem to lift my spirits. Take care, sending best wishes from NZ.
Thank you for this honest video. I had to learn to slow down because of health issues, too. I find it hard to not always being able to do things in the garden. I am in the lucky podition to pay for help. Although it still bugs me not to be able to do it myself/ my way... I relax with good books and I love taking baths with nice smelling bath lotions. Your app sounds great, I would want to read all of the magazines.... Love, Gudrun
This is rather a helpful video for me as I have a garden and am responsible for all chores in the house and out. My husband is unable to help due to health problems and I find myself getting so burnt out that nothing gets done. I am going to take your advice and take some breaks between jobs and alternate between inside and outside jobs. Thank you for your help.
I am currently experimenting with setting up supper first thing. With spring here I can too easily get"lost" in doing stuff and then I'm too tired to cook and clean up. Not going well so far but habits take time to assess and tweak.
I understand how difficult SAD can be so I found this a really interesting video. Was great to hear someone else talk about how sometimes it can be harder to keep going. I used to rely on a blue light but since discovering gardening I've found it helps a lot. I can't imagine how you manage thought with the amount of work Byther Farm is... I just have a small urban garden :)
Hi John, it's a little larger than that, the whole site is 8/10ths of an acre and the veg garden with food forest is around half an acre. I'm not sure I manage it, I suspect that it manages me! 😉
Great video Liz and funny because I relax by watching you on UA-cam (and a few others too 😂😂) but I appreciate all the work you do and being so honest and open with us about your life. ☮️🇨🇦🥕🥬🌶🙏🍆
I think pacing is a good idea regardless of health. I'm quite a bit older than you and for that reason I need to pace. I do take on ridiculous projects. I was covering my shed roof the other day, then covering all of my veg garden. Today was meant to be a rest day but I ended up working on the back garden pulling down fencing which was on a slope above steps and only six inches. Looks good though.
Hello Liz, thanks for uploading this film. I enjoyed watching this as I have enjoyed watching other films which you've produced but this one particularly resonated with me. Working with plants and making compost has been a passion since my childhood. Unfortunately, another almost constant companion in life has been depression, a condition which I struggled to contend with effectively throughout my teenage years and into my twenties. Salvation came at the age of 28 when I found the magic combination for me - surrounding myself with the right people, yoga and gardening and it has allowed me to overcome my difficulties for many, many years. Things took a turn for the worst almost a year now Liz and I have really struggled through the last 12 months. My thougts have become more and more negative until, 10 days ago, I took an overdose of opioid painkillers, feeling that I would never again be able to feel contented. Forgive me for being so open, forward about this but I must reach out to people, especially people who share my passions and explain what situation I am in. I must feel postive, that I can thrive again and I must cultivate hope Liz. I would be so deeply touched to you and anyone else reading this if you would consider sparing me a thought as I determine myself to battle on and find the means to get through this hell which I have encountered. I must fight this. Thank you, Michael
Michael, I'm so pleased that you have felt strong enough to share your pain with us. Keep talking with friends, with your doctor and keep doing things that you know help - like gardening, even in rainy days. You are not alone.
I'm so glad that Liz has created a place that you feel comfortable posting this about yourself. Take one day at a time. One moment at a time. As you've done before, you'll get through this, even if you can't quite see it now.
Michael, Leaving a comment on a public forum like this takes true bravery. I’m so sorry you reached a place where you thought you had no hope, but I’m glad you are fighting your way back into the light. Please continue doing the things that help, like seeing your doctor, yoga, and gardening. I have found such a good network friends online, I hope that in addition to your in real life friends, you can find friends here that will encourage you as well. Keep posting, keep reaching out, keep living bravely!
Hi Michael. I am so sorry to hear of your continued battles mate. It's extremely hard sometimes but what I want you to know is your never alone. Gardening has the power to heal my friend and we are all friends here. We are all here to pick each other up and lend a helping hand or a shoulder to cry on. You made a huge move in talking to someone and they say a problem shared is a problem halved. Just remember that You are a valued member of society even if it doesn't feel like it sometimes. I for one are more than happy to speak with you should you ever need an ear. But besides the internet find some actual people to talk to also. You can beat this by attacking it from multiple angles. Like you say to surround yourself in positivity and positive people. You have that right here. Take care, my friend
I get through winter by telling myself that even the dark and gloomy days are all wonders of Nature, I just try to look out the window and enjoy them for what they are; I certainly wouldn’t like a continuous hot and sunny climate all year round, I’ve lived in a place like that for two years and in the end I hated it and longed for the wind and rain of dear old Blighty!
Another great video Liz and one that I am sure will be helpful to many people. I have ME/CFS and I find that pacing helps but task-switching (which is what you seems to do) is even more effective for me. There are days that I may not be able to do too much at all and other days that I surprise myself but I know, as the winter progresses that it will become more of a struggle.
I power nap at least once through the day 40 min just so I can get through the day! I’m diabetic and yes the shorter days so affect me, I get headaches. Pilots on flights rotate taking power naps to get through jet lag. Have a lovely day!
4Oct20 2050 Greetings from Auckland, New Zealand. Your video title caught my eye. It is Sunday evening here and I am pooped after five hours yesterday putting up temporary fencing for five sheep! Plus a little light property maintenance today. I think of myself as tough. How mistaken.
Music helps me, especially if it's a big job, like working on the chicken run we just built. I use IHeart radio on my phone. Then I just keep it in my back pocket. But I agree, taking breaks is very important!
Just an observation. I watched some of your older videos and you seem to be getting younger. I think you are right to live your lifestyle as it has definitely made a difference to you
Hi Sherry, I'm sorry to read that you also have SAD to contend with, it's a pain in the proverbial isn't it? But, I'm also pleased to read that you have found a good way to keep on keeping on!
This time of year is hard on my daughter. Once the weather gets below 75 degrees her pain puts her in the bed for several days . Her condition comes from a car accident in 2008. Be Blessed everyone frances from Virginia Beach Virginia USA
Interesting, that's exactly how I do it. I don't schedule breaks or time them, but resting when I feel physically or mentally fatigue. I always have a vision of what I want to get done, it get's me going after a short while.
Thank you for the videos. They are all really informative. One query I have (as I notice you pulling up the nettles) - do you think it's possible to leave an area of garden to go wild for the wildlife and still grow vegetables?
I get a bit carried away doing gardening ( even working in it in pouring rain ) then i just call it a day & come indoors change into dry clothes & get a hot cup a tea..and then i leave gardening till next day ( when I can think straight & not drive myself mad about it )
We took all season to set up all the garden beds we planned for, now we have a little more time left, and all those grassy areas are looking mighty temping to set up as garden beds~ Next year it's all going to be set up already, so we'll direct sow wherever there are open spaces or too many of a single plant. The zucchini took over an entire garden bed, now it's getting colder and something will go in that spot. we have too much arugula, as we thought we could eat more of it than it would let us, and are saving seeds from it. There's at least one garden bed that needs to have a pathway through it, and lots of shaded areas that we need to figure out what can grow there besides catmint and garlic. Absolutely, if we dig a trench for a garden bed, we can wait a day or two while gathering organic materials to fill it in, so that we are no longer exhausted from digging by the time we need to fill it in and plant it, which needs good concentration from not being tired to do the last part well.
I can identify with all you say. I have a tiny garden and I've always been a Summer gardener, but I was determined to keep it going through the Winter this year, with more veg than I usually grow. I've had a partial success, in that I've sown and am planting up some brassicas to take me through the Winter months, but truth be told I just want to stay indoors now, where it's cosy and warm! I'm getting better at forgiving myself for not seeing things through because I have other hobbies which can be done indoors, and come the Spring I'll probably have some revamped furniture and a few more knitted cardigans to show for my efforts, so I won't feel I've been completely frittering my time away ;) I'm not sure how old you are Liz... I'm pushing 60 myself and still work as a nurse part-time. I have ADHD and Depression, but I know myself well by now, and fit my hobbies around my moods, the weather, my stamina, my workload etc, so I get things done. Pacing yourself is key at our time of life... do a bit, rest, repeat. Your joyous laugh when you let your ducks out... priceless :) Thank you for your videos xxx
Yes, I'm pushing 60 too. It's a great age to be. Still enough enthusiasm to learn new stuff, but with the wisdom to know that we can't achieve everything all the time. 😃
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Hi Liz and any other sufferers of fatigue etc. I've recently found The Optimal Health Clinic, London. They specialise in fatigue and related conditions - many of them have suffered themselves - and they have LOADS of free material available to try to reach everyone that needs it! Worth checking it out!
You could also have titled this episode "How to continue to be productive despite fatigue or health conditions." You rest but you DON'T quit! Very inspiring.
I unwind watching your video's, Liz! I have chronic fatigue from past burn out and I need to do pacing as well. I like this quote by Banksy: "If you get tired, learn to rest, not quit."
You might have SAD, but when you say 'Hello, this is Byther Farm', it always cheers up my day. Thank you so much for sharing x
I reward myself by watching calming UA-camrs 😉
Same!
I noticed that I got really burned out a couple of weeks ago. I think there was a stretch where I didn't go into the garden for three days, and I usually go three to four times a day. I had to keep reminding myself that this is work and that all work must be countered with rest. Thank you for this lovely video, was fun to go on your morning routine with you!
Thank you so much for sharing this - particularly that you leave some jobs half done for the sake of your health. I find it so hard not to push myself through to finishing jobs, long after I should have gone inside. My number one adaptation for gardening as a Spoonie is my heavy duty trolley - the kind with proper tyres and fold-down sides for carrying large pots, or landscaping stone. I use it at all times, even when I'm just dead-heading, so that I never have to carry anything myself, but also so that, with the sides down and a cushion, I have a comfy seat to sit on at all times. As long as the tyres are nice a full, it practically bounces after me - very easy to pull.
I'm in a similar situation with chronic conditions which limit my time on my feet (without fainting) and keeps me house-bound when I'm getting my regular treatments, bed-bound when I'm not (as in the past 10 months, because of Covid pressure on the hospitals). While not exactly homesteading, we built and moved into a new house 2 years ago, with a garden from which I am hoping to be able to contribute to our household by growing fruit and veg, and, eventually, chicken eggs. It is so hard, emotionally, to not be contributing to finances but the joy of cooking and eating food I have grown overshadows that, tenfold.
Now I just need to work out how to plant for a continuous supply, rather than the feast-and-famine I've had so far - but that will have to wait till my treatments begin again, and I can count on some form of routine, again.
I was diagnosed with Fibromyalgia 18 yrs ago and now at the age of 59 I’m only just getting the message into my head about pacing myself. Lockdown showed me this as I was unable to go to work. My job is as a housekeeper. I have two clients with huge houses in which I cook, clean and launder. Plus some nannying. I then return home to do gardening, do my own housework and help my husband with rearing pheasants and partridges. I thought if I fought it and didn’t give in to it I would win and the Fibromyalgia would loose. The pain was horrendous. So for me lockdown showed how to listen to my body. I have reduced my housekeeping hours and also employed an assistant. It means I can enjoy my garden, third of an acre, and chickens much more and it’s so rewarding when you bring in the harvest and store. All the best to everyone. Thank you. 🙏🏻
I've had rheumatoid arthritis since I was a child, last few years it's gotten really bad and I've learnt how important rest is. It's hard not to get down about it as I'm still only young and people don't realize how much pain I'm in sometimes
💖💜💖
I'm watching this while stuck in bed having a huge flare up from doing too much this last two weeks so it's quite relevant haha. I've had M.E , orthostatic and autonomic nervous system issues for 22 years, the last couple of years the most severe, so pacing and rest, as you mention, is basically the only way to get anything done. I can usually do 3-5 hours of 'activity' in 24 hours spilt into 30 min chunks with bed rest in between and make sure to do one physical task then one mental task as you said. It gives your body and brain time to rest in between. It does leave a lot of things half done though 😂
I'm sure people find many different ways to rest and relax but with the severity of my illnesses watching youtube or even writing text messages counts as 'activity' so one tip is if you find you don't feel rested or refreshed, look into what you're actually doing with that 'rest' time and if it's still draining your energy in some way. We spend so much time in front of screens, I don't think even healthy people realise how draining it is. We all need more time just switched off.
A cuppa in the garden looking over the countryside is my favourite way to relax and winter always makes things a bit more difficult being stuck inside 24/7. I'm hoping to get a chair in my greenhouse once it's empty so I can enjoy it for a little longer at least :D
We have a chair in the vegetable garden just for this purpose. To take sit down, drink a cup of tea and enjoy the view. We even put a bamboo couch in the greenhouse for parts of the year.
I also am struggling to be productive, and it is encouraging to watch what you are doing on a daily basis. Something for me to strive to. Thank you and stay well!
I watch you (and Jess at Roots and refuge, Huw and Charles) to help me with burnout. You make me feel like it’s okay to not feel awesome all the time but that you can still be productive and successful. Thank you for sharing your tips, I think they’ll be helpful!
This is a great video Liz...I have never come across a gardening video that talks about burnout. Great tips...sometimes I go full force and don't stop to refocus or do other tasks between gardening...
I hear you very much as I struggle with these things plus cancer and other diseases have slowed me down. I sit down, rest, watch you tubers like yourself and I have learnt soooo much!! Then I am up and back at it till I need my next rest. Gardening is so good for the soul and our mood. Bless u x
My husband also reacts to loss of sunlight. We wouldn't make it without vitamin D3! Plus last winter we did add a full spectrum light as well and he could feel the difference in a very short time. Some evenings even admitting that he just needed to go sit under his light for awhile. For myself, I only have one strategy and that is to break everything down into small tasks that will in time equal a finished project. Every time I cross some small task off the list, it gives me the motivation to keep going.
Thank you, Liz- I really needed to see this today. I appreciate your candor and honesty with regards to the combination of autoimmune conditions and the seasonal transition. I’ve always struggled this time of year; having had far more time outside over this past spring and summer, I’m really feeling the change. Thanks for reminding me that it’s okay to feel this way and how essential self care truly is.
I thought you might like this poem by Robert Frost.
My sorrow, when she’s here with me,
Thinks these dark days of autumn rain
Are beautiful as days can be;
She loves the bare, the withered tree;
She walks the sodden pasture lane.
Her pleasure will not let me stay.
She talks and I am fain to list:
She’s glad the birds are gone away,
She’s glad her simple worsted grey
Is silver now with clinging mist.
The desolate, deserted trees,
The faded earth, the heavy sky,
The beauties she so truly sees,
She thinks I have no eye for these,
And vexes me for reason why.
Not yesterday I learned to know
The love of bare November days
Before the coming of the snow,
But it were vain to tell her so,
And they are better for her praise.
❤
Thanks you Liz for your openness in sharing about your health issues and SAD. It’s so relevant to me. I was full of energy this summer and took on an allotment and went at it full blast. Now that the darker days have arrived I seem to have lost my mojo and lack energy. Thank you for the reminder to rest. My motto is to take it easy but do it. I love watching your videos and you’re homestead. I’m over the bridge in Somerset. Stay safe Liz - your an inspiration in this video
Your homestead is so incredible and you have the most soothing presence! So glad I found this channel!
I truly enjoy seeing your routines there. It's so relaxing.
A few years back, I found myself getting extremely tired just doing simple things. I was VERY low on B12 and Vitamin D--the doctor put me on supplements and that has helped tremendously.
A couple of days ago when it was grey and cool, I really didn't feel like going to the plot! I went anyway and did smaller jobs, but the weather does affect your mood!
Liz, great insight!
First thing I do is remember I’m not invincible! For years I believed I was! 😂
Also to a huge chunk of people I am dispensable!
So I concentrate on minding myself for those who care about me.
I try to practice balance, rest and boundaries. ‘When I can; I do, when I can’t; I don’t.’ (And without guilt.)It is how it is. 😄🤗
And meds.... just so no one thinks it’s easy! 🤷♀️
Thank you so much for sharing about your health struggles. You have given me great reassurance that I can garden successfully and I don't have to do everything in one go. God bless you.
Thank you so much for sharing this! I have chronic Lyme and I appreciate hearing how others handle fatigue and get things done!
I've spent more time outside than ever before this year so the loss of sunlight has really knocked me for six. I've had something important to do this week that doesn't even relate to gardening but i've been putting it off for too long. Its only today that I managed to pull my finger out and get it sorted.
After that I harvested some of my french beans and carrots and made a big pot of soup with them and my potatoes plus some chicken, sausages, herbs and spices, etc. The family loved it. I found that helped.
Yoga with adriene. Right on you tube! I do it in the morning and it boosts my energy so much it's hard to believe. She even has beginner videos and yoga for gardeners! You won't believe the difference.
This is such an important message, thank you for talking about it! When I was recovering from pneumonia earlier in the year, working in the garden was a lifeline for my mental health but I had to acknowledge that my strength and stamina were lacking. Recognising when you need help and when you need rest is really important to be able to complete projects and carry on enjoying what you're doing. I also enjoy rotating my interests (I like to think of it as being a 'serial hobbyist') and that keeps things fresh and the motivation high. I hope that you are able to ride out your SAD well this coming winter. You have plenty there to distract you and help keep your spirits high. As you know, spending time outdoors does wonders for the soul.
Absolutely, even on the coolest of days I try to spend a little time outside appreciating the patterns of nature or the sounds of the wildlife.
I don't think you said it directly, but the biggest take-away for me was to allow what is to be what is. When we had wildfires, and their resulting smoke, I was frustrated with myself and my asthma. I fretted about not having the physical ability to do what needed to be done in my garden. Your calm, peaceful delivery of your tips helps me to remember that I don't have to do it all - and that's ok. I do what I can, when I can, and the rest I have to allow to go undone. Thank you for the gentle reminder. You're the best!
This was a great video, a great reminder to take time for yourself to refuel so you don't get burnt out. Thank you from Canada.
Glad you enjoyed it!
I also struggle with SAD and I know how hard it can be. Love your videos, I learn much from them, thank you for sharing them. I've never seen a triple yoked egg, very cool. Wish I had ducks but, yeah another job. I'm proud of your preserverance and dedication to be a caretaker of the land and animals. Important jobs. You're in my prayers to keep motivated all year round as well as having time for yourself
Thanks for sharing your day. Even though I do not suffer currently from any serious ailments unlike yourself, I do work full time and never have enough time to spend in the garden. I use the same system as you though, do a job or part of it, then have a break.
Thank you for sharing! Watching your channel, and other gardening channels on youtube, and of course working in my garden, has been a huge part of my recovery from a burn out this spring and summer. 🙏
So important to take time for a pause. Nice!
Wow I’ve never seen a triple egg yolk before! 😊
I have 2 interests, gardening and music. I have COPD, allergies, asthma and arthritis. I’m also on the spectrum. I got interested in how you garden because of disability. I thought I was going to have to give up gardening entirely. I watch Huw Richards and Charles Dowding too. I incorporate ideas from all three. I don’t do everything in one day. I schedule taking care of my dog everyday and myself. She’s small so walking doesn’t have to be far. I mow one day and maybe weed one part of my yard. The next day if necessary I water and pull a few weeds somewhere else. Very few things mature at the same time so I just wait. I prep on Tuesdays normally. I take Wednesday to assess my life and do something fun. Thursday’s are laundry days. Friday I clean my house and it’s only 1200 sq feet so it’s not that bad. Saturday I rest and spend time with my daughter and grandchildren. Sunday I give the dog a bath and groom her if needed. Sunday is my game day. I like Animal Crossing on the older wii. Every evening I practice piano except Saturday and Sunday. Before bed I journal. Every single day even if it’s a bit cloudy I go outside for at least 15 minutes. The sunshine keeps me sane. I eat a diet free of lactose and some animal proteins that cause allergies. I entirely stay away from processed foods. MSG, high fructose corn syrup and soy products give me headaches and more pain.
Thank you, Liz ! I appreciate your sincere and practical sharing !
I use Meditation to keep my mind calm and Tai Chi to keep my body healthy and full of energy.
I was topping up raised beds for winter and fibromyalgia stopped me in my track's for a few days with load's of work to be done but us humans with illnesses must keep going because it's so easy to get down. Keep going,keep fighting and our food garden's will keep us strong and healthy....
Good advice, Liz! I've divided my garden into zones and assigned days of the week for each. Of course, there are a lot of things that need tending daily, but as far as things on a "to do" list, it really helps keep me from being overwhelmed.
Hi Debra, that's a really good idea (I may have to 'borrow' that one!).
I struggle as well to stay motivated. With many health issues I can excuse myself from the daily grind.
I am always thankful when I push through and get out to the garden
Got this quote from someone on UA-cam. When your tired, rest & reset. I say this to myself a lot. Been watching you for a while, but wandering when your chickens went. Sorry if you have said in a past video. I watch you while cooking, otherwise your restful voice makes me sleepy. You are so calming. Take care & rest. It's cold already. Regards from Northamptonshire.
I can totally relate. This is an important message.
Thank you!
Excellent video Liz I'm an active but arthritic 72 year old , I also suffer with sad and at times do more than I should I only have 4 large raised beds and two greenhouses , but with an almost 3 year old border collie who likes to run I'm lucky to live in Cornwall surrounded by fields and close to beaches . I find you so inspirational you constantly re energise me to carry on , so thank you , I eagerly await your next video
Very good, thanks! I find myself doing similar things. I have found that watching someone else like you do gardening it stirs some motivation in me and gets me off the couch.
I love watching your videos and have learned so much from them. I am partially sighted and have balance problems after complications following a brain tumour. Both eyesight problems and brain injury cause fatigue so it was great to hear you say you don’t have to finish a task and stop frequently for rests! As well as gardening I enjoy painting, sewing and crochetMy tip is stop before you are worn out as there is always just one more thing to do and do all the things you enjoy doing first, I have to do this as my vision is so poor after lunch. And there is nothing worse than looking forwards to something and then not being able to do it!
❤
This was a great video Liz - a timely reminder of the benefits of pacing oneself. 😉
Thanks Liz It's great knowing I'm not the only one that has to learn to pace myself because my health has changed. From the person that can do it all to now a person that has to stop and take loads of breaks. Some days feeding is all that can get done.
Thank you for this video 💛💛💛 it's so so validating
Thank you for this. I sometimes feel overwhelmed by the weeds getting too much. I am learning in the garden. Still lots to learn on preserving. Between full time work and a flock of sheep and associated paperwork I don't get enough garden time. Wee breaks and changing jobs does help. Also just had to say I have a lot of nettles and it's so satisfying pulling up their long bright yellow roots!!
I recently bought a small farm and found your channel. I’m just hooked. I hope you post all winter as I learn about my own little piece of paradise through your experiences.
Welcome aboard Francesca! Yes I will be posting videos all through the winter, some filmed the week that they are published, some that have already been filmed as food for thought for the year ahead.
My rule of thumb is: do a little and do it often. If I try to do it all at once I end up exhausted! Especially if I have to do a lot of physical work, like wheel barrowing wood chips or manure... It's the heavy work I find hard these days, I'm no spring chicken 😂
I'm watching this video as I'm taking a day off after wheel barrowing (literally) a ton of compost and wood chips. I tend to get carried away with hard work like that. Little and often is a good rule of thumb!
It may sound simple but stretching or yoga in the morning will help prepare your mind and body for the day. The more you stretch your muscles the less sore you will be after physical activity.
Great tip! Thank you for sharing this one 😃
Both my husband & I ( both 73 yrs.) have taken to yoga & have REALLY seen the difference! ❤
It's particularly good to do yoga with a small daylight lamp at the top of the mat during winter!
I use Tai Chi for same purpose. Thanks 😊
Yes, completely agree. Yoga is incredible for so many aspects of life.
What a refreshing video to watch. So many gardeners on UA-cam are so high in energy and I'm not. I'd love to grow more and do more but I have my good days and bad days. My biggest struggle is keeping up with the watering. I don't have irrigation hoses connected to my beds so it's dragging around the long garden hose and hiking up and down the property to turn taps on and off, or else use a watering can. I have bought some big black 60l bins that I've put next to my garden beds, I fill them with water when I have more energy and use water from those bins with the watering can so I don't need to walk or carry around much on the tired days. 😊
Hello Yolanda, sorry it's taken me so long to reply to your comment - hopefully late is better than never! I find those high energy videos exhausting to watch, especially if they talk really quickly without pausing for breath. So with any luck, you'll enjoy my gentle amble through gardening, plants and life on the smallholding.
Thank you for sharing this, I imagine this helps a lot of people. I am new to life with arthritis and am equally euphoric about and afraid of starting to garden/homestead. It’s lovely to see what you can do if you’re passionate about something.
And it’s the first time I am seeing the ducks, they are adorable!
I believe pacing one's self is of the greatest benefit.
You have such good advice on how to pace yourself. I also have autoimmune disease and I tend to overdo it when I work outside. I go out there and the hours just slip by until I've done too much and I can't go out again for a few days. I like the idea of going in for a cup of tea and a short time to read. I've recently had some success with going outside before breakfast, then I get hungry after an hour or so and I have to go in and sit down for a while. Thanks for addressing this topic.
Great video, Liz! I found that loading up on vitamin D during the wintertime really helped me with my winter blues and listlessness during the colder, darker months.
Probably the most pleasant You Tuber. Always charming, always pleasant... Thanks Liz.
There are some benefits I get from stretching. It's not yoga, my yoga is my gardening. But stretching, whether 1 minute or 10 minutes seems to pop joy out of several places.
I so admire the amount you do in your garden and with the animals you do have. Animals can't just be left like the garden can be, they need daily attention. I only have about 4 hours of energy each day as I have M.E (diagnosed 28 yrs ago) & New Zealand winters are bad enough for me, I'm sure I'd be a sitter for SAD if I lived in certain places in the northern hemisphere. Some tricks I have, when I feel myself getting low are watching funny movies or videos, or animal videos. They always seem to lift my spirits. Take care, sending best wishes from NZ.
lovely enjoyable video
Thank you for this honest video.
I had to learn to slow down because of health issues, too. I find it hard to not always being able to do things in the garden.
I am in the lucky podition to pay for help. Although it still bugs me not to be able to do it myself/ my way...
I relax with good books and I love taking baths with nice smelling bath lotions.
Your app sounds great, I would want to read all of the magazines....
Love, Gudrun
Readly! Thanks Liz... love it!!! 👍🏻
This is rather a helpful video for me as I have a garden and am responsible for all chores in the house and out. My husband is unable to help due to health problems and I find myself getting so burnt out that nothing gets done. I am going to take your advice and take some breaks between jobs and alternate between inside and outside jobs. Thank you for your help.
I am currently experimenting with setting up supper first thing. With spring here I can too easily get"lost" in doing stuff and then I'm too tired to cook and clean up. Not going well so far but habits take time to assess and tweak.
I understand how difficult SAD can be so I found this a really interesting video. Was great to hear someone else talk about how sometimes it can be harder to keep going. I used to rely on a blue light but since discovering gardening I've found it helps a lot.
I can't imagine how you manage thought with the amount of work Byther Farm is... I just have a small urban garden :)
I can do the garden or I can do housework - that applies all year round. All I can say is that the garden is much tidier than the house!
liz how you manage a third of an acre is amazing , brilliant , thanks
Hi John, it's a little larger than that, the whole site is 8/10ths of an acre and the veg garden with food forest is around half an acre. I'm not sure I manage it, I suspect that it manages me! 😉
Great video Liz and funny because I relax by watching you on UA-cam (and a few others too 😂😂) but I appreciate all the work you do and being so honest and open with us about your life. ☮️🇨🇦🥕🥬🌶🙏🍆
Thank you for this Liz! It's RA for me . I just have to make myself quit sometimes and be ok with everything the way it is.
I think pacing is a good idea regardless of health. I'm quite a bit older than you and for that reason I need to pace. I do take on ridiculous projects. I was covering my shed roof the other day, then covering all of my veg garden. Today was meant to be a rest day but I ended up working on the back garden pulling down fencing which was on a slope above steps and only six inches. Looks good though.
I do as much I can during the day.. But after 7 or 8 pm I I do crochet.. It helps me a lot.
Hello Liz, thanks for uploading this film. I enjoyed watching this as I have enjoyed watching other films which you've produced but this one particularly resonated with me.
Working with plants and making compost has been a passion since my childhood. Unfortunately, another almost constant companion in life has been depression, a condition which I struggled to contend with effectively throughout my teenage years and into my twenties. Salvation came at the age of 28 when I found the magic combination for me - surrounding myself with the right people, yoga and gardening and it has allowed me to overcome my difficulties for many, many years.
Things took a turn for the worst almost a year now Liz and I have really struggled through the last 12 months. My thougts have become more and more negative until, 10 days ago, I took an overdose of opioid painkillers, feeling that I would never again be able to feel contented.
Forgive me for being so open, forward about this but I must reach out to people, especially people who share my passions and explain what situation I am in. I must feel postive, that I can thrive again and I must cultivate hope Liz.
I would be so deeply touched to you and anyone else reading this if you would consider sparing me a thought as I determine myself to battle on and find the means to get through this hell which I have encountered. I must fight this. Thank you,
Michael
Michael, I'm so pleased that you have felt strong enough to share your pain with us. Keep talking with friends, with your doctor and keep doing things that you know help - like gardening, even in rainy days. You are not alone.
I'm so glad that Liz has created a place that you feel comfortable posting this about yourself.
Take one day at a time. One moment at a time. As you've done before, you'll get through this, even if you can't quite see it now.
Michael,
Leaving a comment on a public forum like this takes true bravery. I’m so sorry you reached a place where you thought you had no hope, but I’m glad you are fighting your way back into the light. Please continue doing the things that help, like seeing your doctor, yoga, and gardening. I have found such a good network friends online, I hope that in addition to your in real life friends, you can find friends here that will encourage you as well. Keep posting, keep reaching out, keep living bravely!
Michael, sending positive thoughts... 🤩 Hope you get a chance to spend some time in the garden this week. 🙌
Hi Michael. I am so sorry to hear of your continued battles mate. It's extremely hard sometimes but what I want you to know is your never alone. Gardening has the power to heal my friend and we are all friends here. We are all here to pick each other up and lend a helping hand or a shoulder to cry on. You made a huge move in talking to someone and they say a problem shared is a problem halved. Just remember that You are a valued member of society even if it doesn't feel like it sometimes. I for one are more than happy to speak with you should you ever need an ear. But besides the internet find some actual people to talk to also. You can beat this by attacking it from multiple angles. Like you say to surround yourself in positivity and positive people. You have that right here. Take care, my friend
Brilliant video! Thank you so much for sharing these very useful tips! Looking forward to reading your book when it comes out!
I get through winter by telling myself that even the dark and gloomy days are all wonders of Nature, I just try to look out the window and enjoy them for what they are; I certainly wouldn’t like a continuous hot and sunny climate all year round, I’ve lived in a place like that for two years and in the end I hated it and longed for the wind and rain of dear old Blighty!
I loved watching the Ducks. I also struggle with not coming to a grinding halt. 🙏🏻 this is a real issue for me. Thank you
Oh wow that magazine app sounds awesome!!!
Another great video Liz and one that I am sure will be helpful to many people. I have ME/CFS and I find that pacing helps but task-switching (which is what you seems to do) is even more effective for me. There are days that I may not be able to do too much at all and other days that I surprise myself but I know, as the winter progresses that it will become more of a struggle.
Amazes me how even the most positive people seem to receive
Negative reviews . Sad reflection on our society..
Hi Tony, they have still visited the channel and spent a moment or two watching, we can't please them all, all of the time. 😃
I power nap at least once through the day 40 min just so I can get through the day! I’m diabetic and yes the shorter days so affect me, I get headaches. Pilots on flights rotate taking power naps to get through jet lag. Have a lovely day!
I have Fibromyalgia and I’m disabled. I give myself a task per day. You need a garden seat, a portable one so you can rest. That helped me a deal.
4Oct20 2050 Greetings from Auckland, New Zealand. Your video title caught my eye. It is Sunday evening here and I am pooped after five hours yesterday putting up temporary fencing for five sheep! Plus a little light property maintenance today. I think of myself as tough. How mistaken.
Thank you . Huge insight.
Thank you for the advice & the encouragement.
Music helps me, especially if it's a big job, like working on the chicken run we just built. I use IHeart radio on my phone. Then I just keep it in my back pocket. But I agree, taking breaks is very important!
Just an observation. I watched some of your older videos and you seem to be getting younger. I think you are right to live your lifestyle as it has definitely made a difference to you
Liz, I'm near 70, and I do my jobs outside the same way...taking breaks. That way I can keep going! I also suffer from SAD.
Hi Sherry, I'm sorry to read that you also have SAD to contend with, it's a pain in the proverbial isn't it? But, I'm also pleased to read that you have found a good way to keep on keeping on!
This time of year is hard on my daughter. Once the weather gets below 75 degrees her pain puts her in the bed for several days . Her condition comes from a car accident in 2008. Be Blessed everyone frances from Virginia Beach Virginia USA
Interesting, that's exactly how I do it. I don't schedule breaks or time them, but resting when I feel physically or mentally fatigue.
I always have a vision of what I want to get done, it get's me going after a short while.
I would love to see a cooking video of what you do with your produce Liz such as the squashes and beans if possible in the future 🙏 👌
Great video again Liz! 👍🏼
Thank you for the videos. They are all really informative. One query I have (as I notice you pulling up the nettles) - do you think it's possible to leave an area of garden to go wild for the wildlife and still grow vegetables?
Yes I do! We leave great swathes of the garden to grow wild (about 1/4 of our garden is wild at any one time).
@@LizZorab That's good to know. I'll leave my wild patch too. Thank you.
Lessons I learned the hard way - if I'm having a day where my body feels good... that doesn't mean I should do ALL the jobs on that day!
Oh that's a really hard learnt lesson and I still don't get it right!
Allow myself to experiment, get things wrong and enjoy the successes. Listen to music or a good audio fiction book whilst working in the garden.
Another great video Liz. Thanks for your honesty and useful tips. Take care and keep safe.
You are awsome
I get a bit carried away doing gardening ( even working in it in pouring rain ) then i just call it a day & come indoors change into dry clothes & get a hot cup a tea..and then i leave gardening till next day ( when I can think straight & not drive myself mad about it )
Such important ideas 😃
Glad you like them!
We took all season to set up all the garden beds we planned for, now we have a little more time left, and all those grassy areas are looking mighty temping to set up as garden beds~ Next year it's all going to be set up already, so we'll direct sow wherever there are open spaces or too many of a single plant. The zucchini took over an entire garden bed, now it's getting colder and something will go in that spot. we have too much arugula, as we thought we could eat more of it than it would let us, and are saving seeds from it. There's at least one garden bed that needs to have a pathway through it, and lots of shaded areas that we need to figure out what can grow there besides catmint and garlic. Absolutely, if we dig a trench for a garden bed, we can wait a day or two while gathering organic materials to fill it in, so that we are no longer exhausted from digging by the time we need to fill it in and plant it, which needs good concentration from not being tired to do the last part well.
Awesome update my friend
Thanks 👍
Good and important video!!! On the days to come then we want something to do outside...
Thanks for keeping it real.
Love seeing your daily routine
I can identify with all you say.
I have a tiny garden and I've always been a Summer gardener, but I was determined to keep it going through the Winter this year, with more veg than I usually grow.
I've had a partial success, in that I've sown and am planting up some brassicas to take me through the Winter months, but truth be told I just want to stay indoors now, where it's cosy and warm!
I'm getting better at forgiving myself for not seeing things through because I have other hobbies which can be done indoors, and come the Spring I'll probably have some revamped furniture and a few more knitted cardigans to show for my efforts, so I won't feel I've been completely frittering my time away ;)
I'm not sure how old you are Liz... I'm pushing 60 myself and still work as a nurse part-time. I have ADHD and Depression, but I know myself well by now, and fit my hobbies around my moods, the weather, my stamina, my workload etc, so I get things done.
Pacing yourself is key at our time of life... do a bit, rest, repeat.
Your joyous laugh when you let your ducks out... priceless :)
Thank you for your videos xxx
Yes, I'm pushing 60 too. It's a great age to be. Still enough enthusiasm to learn new stuff, but with the wisdom to know that we can't achieve everything all the time. 😃
@@LizZorab For sure. I'm loving my age more than I thought I would... anything I do or say now is always "legend" to people under 30.
We can't lose ;)