Happy anniversary ❤️. You look so much healthier than you did 2 years ago. Life will always have stress, but you look so much more relaxed. Maybe try assigning tasks to a day, ie house repairs on Wednesday, rest on Thursday( read a book, fabric shop, check out charity shops, etc.) do what makes you happy. You’ve got this. Don’t over whelm you knees and wrists. Limit how much time you do each task. I think that life presents you with what you need as you need it. The stairs are hard, but probably keeping the arthritis from seizing up your knees. Getting ill is a major worry, but it’s not like you’re geriatric yet girl! You’re still in a learning curve. It will get easier. The future pension will help you move later. The time will fly by, so enjoy them. We all love you. Have a great anniversary
Aww, lovely, thank you so much! Your support has been amazing over the years.....and you give it so freely despite what you are dealing with yourself. You are a very special person.......with a very special and lovely family. Thank you. X
WOW! 176 videos later... Where did the time go!??! LOL I remember being so thrilled when you started your own channel. But really Vivi, I have to say that you have also been a very large part of our lives too. Hearty congratulations on your 2nd anniversary & may you have many more years of love & laughter... living without a wage. 😎🤗 Big hugs!
Here's the crazy thing.......it's actually 299 videos! (a lot of them aren't numbered).......it only seems like yesterday when this all started......I have been blown away over the last couple of years by all of you watching and commenting and giving such amazing support and encouragement......I feel ridiculously blessed. Thank you for being such a massive part of that. X :-)
I'm all for you Vivi. It's hard to find the right words...I watch your videos and see your kindness, your frustrations, your honesty and wish that all of us who care about you could be your sisters and help make your dreams come true. You are smart and capable, you will know what to do as you do now. I believe in you.
Have I been watching you that long? Congratulations are in order. Allow yourself to fathom how much you and your journey mean to virtual strangers all around the globe. Thanx, Vivi. Many thanks.
Gosh, thank you Joseph.....that's a rather big thought to get my head around! I have loved sharing and really love the interaction between us all. It has been a ball so far! :-)
I fully understand Vivi, being divorced single parent for 25+ years and now helping raise grandchildren on a very pinced dime. I also often wish I had a partner to share the decisions, work, fun, all of it. I get just enough, thank the Lord, to stay afloat. I sell a painting occasionally, that helps. I spent a bit of my savings recently for s vacation but now have to rebuild that account! Please know we understand and see you as a very smart, strong woman. You're thinking ahead, very good! Have a happy week!
Good on you for treating yourself to time off. Your paintings are lovely and I'm sure you will sell plenty more to replenish the savings fund. Thank you lovely. :-)
Continued blessings, sweet Vivi! Wherever you go whatever you do I feel certain you will bloom where you are planted. I love sharing a small part of my day with you!
Yay! Vivi 🎉💪 No thank you for your channel! Congratulations on the two years, it has been a total pleasure to watch you. I left England in the 80's for Canada, so home sick was always searching for stuff to watch that would show me the surroundings, and the people, I watch every show and wedding, sports whatever I can to feel apart still, well I stumbled upon your channel (as you know) and I instantly fell, you give me real, and more real, you show me the spirit of human I love, you keep my pride of the uk, your trip to London had me in tears of happiness and pride! You are a brave and strong lady, an example of a typical Brit., love, laughter, strong opinions, huge wit and heart! Keep going lady gardener, and I'll no we'll keep watching and supporting. Much love to you from Canada ❤
Oh thank you so much Denise - that means the world to me. :-) And when the garden stuff calms down a bit I have a number of 'trips' in London planned to share with you all. Thank you lovely. :-)
Loved “talking” with you this past half hour or so, it really does feel like we’ve been chatting. I love your story and really get you. It’s all about the mystery of life, no one knows what the future will bring. You are such an inspiration, so open and real. Thank you for sharing.
Vivi, your such a wonderful person in every way, no way should you be with out a partner who can cook and be there for you. I'm positive you will meet that person sooner rather than later. Very warming and honest video, you've done so amazingly well doing this for the past 2 years. If I had some Bubbly....I would toast to you. x
Congrats on two years. Time flies. Turning 65 and getting a pension made a big difference in my life. I was able to buy a small bungalow, 546 sq. ft., with a back garden with fruit trees. Of course it is way out in the boonies. I know what you mean about living alone. I sure could do with help doing yard work, gardening and house cleaning. ~ Jon in rural BC, Canada
I really appreciate how honestly you share your feelings. Not many people in my life share so openly. It makes me feel I'm not alone in my struggles. I do have a wonderful husband and am grateful for him. But none of us are without our faults. 😋 You inspire me to live a life that reflects me.
Oh that's beautiful Susan, thank you..........yes, we should all live a life that reflects who we are.......not what anyone else thinks or says we should be. Go you! :-)
I was laughing at the conclusion.....when you said you could see yourself giving your thoughts on month 390 or whatever you said. You are doing what I always dreamed of doing, and by that I mean living off the land. I always enjoyed reading books about this lifestyle, such as The Good Life by the Nearings, and the books about homesteads of the ones trying to make it. However, I never achieved that and ended up teaching most of my career. Vivi, keep going! You are an inspiration.
Thank you so much Carolyn......and huge respect to you for being a teacher! I have many friends who are teachers so I know what a hard job it can be......but also so very rewarding. We need you wonderful teachers! Thank you for all you do. :-)
Fabulous. What an amazing two years! I can't quite believe we've been along in this journey with you for two years. Extraordinary. Here's to the next year; and you know where to come for chilled bubbles. 😊
It's hard to believe it's two years......and it's so lovely that the folk who have come along on the journey with me have become friends......albeit at a distance for the most part.......but I do feel a genuine sense of warmth and friendship from folk. That's special. You two are just what I mean. :-)
I could totally watch you for another 20 Vivi! And I can so see you in the country with a cottage, garden and a Wolfie pup running around! London will always be there to visit and play in with friends but having a large network of reliable family and friends is a must when you are a single elder. I am watching my family do this now and it does start to boggle the mind. But enough of that, for now, CONGRATULATIONS on 24 months you wonderful woman, you are doing fabulous! 😘💜😘💚😘💙😘💛😘
Ohhhh, see now you have me wanting to make the move today just so I can have the Wolfie pup! Hahaha, thank you so much lovely, your comments and support over all this time have been wonderful! :-)
It is a stunning county. I love visiting my family there........they're all in N. Yorkshire and my sister lives on the edge of the park......gorgeous beaches up north too. :-)
Hi Vivi. Happy independent self sufficient day of year 2. Well done to you, very ballsy move and well done for sticking to it. I think you are an absolutely amazing woman.
Dear Viv, after many years service I was pushed to retirement at age 66. i was not ready. i loved the work I was doing at that point and I was not happy. That was two years ago and I cannot say where the time has gone. solace has been my garden. I need to make a few more changes and they will come in time. I am lucky to have good knees and back and hands.. But i raised my two kids alone and have been alone for a very long time. It is not easy. It does not get easier but the alternative was not an option. I am so glad for you that you have your garden, your apartment and your gifts for filming and conversation. congratulations on your two years independence! .wishing you much happiness on your future endeavours. I hope to see lots of garden videos this summer and regular updates on Rusty. In due time, When you do move north, there will be a place to call home. It may not be what you dream of, but it will be a space that with vision, you will turn into a wonderful, beautiful welcoming space. i hope you take us along for the journey. cheers!
Congrats and cheers to you! You're quite an inspiration! And I'll certainly be here for the next 15 years (LOL)! If you do move in the future.......I sure hope you take us along with you! I think I can speak for everyone else in saying that we'd all miss you to pieces if you stopped making videos. I look forward to your videos and get excited every time you post a new one. Anyway.....enough of my rambling on..........have a great week!
Cheers Vivi!!! ❤️ You are a role model for me when I feel discouraged. And I know what you'd say to that...you don't always feel it...but you are and that's all there is to that! 😀
HI Vivi, Congratulations on the second year ended. And a big, big, big hug!!!!!!!! You mastered those two years with flying colours. I'm there from the beginning, which I find wonderful. I found you when I was badly ill and had to lie in bed for several weeks. What do you do then? You surf through the internet and find Vivi! I also find it completely normal and absolutely honest that you stand by your feelings and emotions. Nowhere does the sun always shine. In these two years, such a large, strong community has built up that sometimes you don't even like to believe it. We communicate with each other, support ourselves and learn from each other. Dear Vivi, I am sure that you will continue your path, find ways to pay your bills and will also find a lot of joy and fun, relaxation and quiet time in the garden with distressing knees and wrists. A beer on your two-year-old. (This time I have one at home) Big hug and a thousand cuddles Claudia
Oh thank you so much Claudia.....and thank you so much for your kind and thoroughly engaging comments over the years, they are always much appreciated. :-)
Hi Vivi, Time flys OMG I can't believe it's been over 2 years if I count the time I watched you on Sean's channel. I have friends at work that are retiring or getting ready to retire and it's alittle discerning to think about how many years I have to go before I can even think about it for myself. You are a very strong and resourceful woman to do what you have done over the last 2 years and doing it all by yourself is amazing. It's hard doing it on my own and that's with a job. There is nothing wrong with having a pity party and a good cry to release frustration or anger as long as you come back from it in a better place and move forward. It's never bothered me to cry when I'm happy but I never wanted people to see me cry when I was upset or hurt but now that I've hit 50 seems like that's all I want to do some days. We love you Vivi and know we will always be here for support and to listen when you need to be heard. Till next time....much Love from across the pond.
Oh thank you so much Anita! Ah, yes, I'm a firm believer in a good, occasional cry to get it all out........so long as there's more laughter than crying I reckon we're doing ok! ;-)
I would still be watching for twenty years, God willing! Congratulations on two years and I can see in you cute cottage with your beautiful garden, it would be lovely
Congratulations on your 24 months Vivi. Onward and upwards to moving forward to a new beginning. Learning to pace yourself. Your dreams will come true believe. (Pleased you liked the card, did it with my own fair hand, just for you)💖🐞🌹
I guessed you had made it yourself - it's so beautiful! I have it in the shed at the moment but am torn as I would like it at home too. ;-) I'm going to make a pin board for the shed so I can have somewhere to display my lovely cards. Thank you! :-)
Go Vivi! You are possibly the most determined, and hard working person I know. Well done on your 2 year anniversary, and here is to many more! I totally sympathise with the ‘self employed’ wage and no such thing as a sick day, I used to sew for a living, it is SO much hard work! Yorkshire is lovely, I lived around Huddersfield for years, and you get so much more land for your money there- it is where we are looking at when we eventually get our smallholding too. Take care, much love, Jaz x
Sewing has to be one of THE slowest ways to make a quid! Hahaha - good job I enjoy it.....and it's something I can fit around my knees and my food growing time! Thank you for you lovely, kind words.........I think I'm just plain old stubborn! ;-) Cheers to us both...doing our own thing, cocking a snook at the expected 'norm'.....and looking after our wee planet while we do it. Heaps of love to you all. :-)
Vivi, this video was absolutely fantastic. It's such a pleasure listening to you talk about reflections, visions, and fantasy dreams. Living alone does have it's down con things but then there are the up pro things. I, for the first time since college, which is 50 years ago, am finally truly living alone. The responsibility load has diminished tremendously. I too still have family responsibilities with a 92 year mother in law and a daughter that still needs a little help once in a while but it's wonderful to actually have a house to my self. Now for those that have lived decades on their own by them selves it's not a good feeling. My kids and grand kids are scattered from one end of the country to the other and this country is very big. One grand daughter is in Hawaii which is about 8,000 miles from where I live. When she graduates from college, I'll be traveling there to see her graduate. It will take 12 hours of flying on an airplane just to get there. I don't have 60 steps in my house but some day even the trek up the 16 steps to the bedroom will probably not be something I would want to navigate. My oldest daughter said I could come live with her when that time comes but sadly she lives in a desert area where gardens do not grow and yards are nothing but rocks, cactus, and palm trees that have to be watered every day. I love Nebraska where trees are thick with blossoms in the Spring, seeds sprout and grow right in the ground, and each season brings its beauty. I am about 20 years ahead of you. I'm into the retirement years and have a couple small sources of income that is enough to live on with in reason. I'm not an extravagant person and live meagerly. I'm not one for fancy food or drink and am quite happy just being at home watching the traffic drive by or in the garden watching the birds fly by. I don't fit the mold of my generation in this country. Like you, I like nature, quiet, and relationships. Have a great day contemplating the years ahead. Nebraska Dave
There is a great deal to be said for simple food and drink and the simple pleasures of the garden......especially the sitting and watching bit. Cheers lovely......may we both enjoy many more years of the simple and oh so good life. :-)
Congratulations Vivi! I've been watching almost since the beginning and really, really want to wish you well. Good health, great gardening. May the road rise up to meet you. Cheers from New Jersey.
Oh Charlene, I'm so sorry you have lost your partner.......gosh, what a transition you must be going through.........yes, you can do it.....and I'll be rooting for you! Sending hugs and masses of positive energy your way. X
Well done, You! I often wish I was in a better place, financially, to leave my job, and do something like what you're doing. I'm in a job I don't care for, but I can't stop working until I've reached a few financial goals. I like to say I'm inching my way out the door, lol. I think I can make the change in about 2 years, but that seems like an eternity from now, lol. I know I'll get there. In the mean time, thank you for putting yourself, your triumphs, and your setbacks out there for us to follow.
Oh you will get there Charissa, you will! You're already on your way.......just this final push. I'm so excited for you and wish you so much success when you make that big change! Good on you! :-)
As always, you’re a continued inspiration to me. I really don’t know how you do it. Completely amazing. That little cottage with a garden full of veggies sounds perfect! And I know you’ll get there. I just know it. Have a fabulous week, Vivi xxx
Congratulations on 24 months! I was working in my garden Sunday early evening and tripped and fractured my foot. Now I can’t put weight on it for at least 6 weeks. So I’m going to have to get someone to help me water my garden. I broke this same foot last August but back then it wasn’t as bad a break.
Oh no! Oh gosh I do hope you can get help with the garden (and at home!)......the wrong time of year for an injury missy! Next time you want to fracture something do it in the winter. ;-) Heal well and quickly lovely. :-)
Congrats on 2 years! It's good of you to think about future options. I can't imagine doing 60 steps with bad knees - good for you to persevere. I lived without a wage for several years and I don't need a lot of "things" to make me happy so I really enjoy your videos and philosophy of life. I live in the states and am old enough to collect social security. To have the confidence of that monthly payment feels good. I'm fortunate to live in the same small home for 32 years and I have a yard. I do have a veggie garden but not that I grow enough to feed myself for the entire year. But each year the maintenance gets a bit harder and I don't have someone to share the burden with either. At the same time I enjoy my independence and I will continue as long as I can. I don't have a great aunt that I help but this winter my mother broke her ankle and now she is having cataract surgery; it's been many trips (I have a car and it's only an hour drive) to help her. I can't do much in the gardens yet (we got 10+ inches of snow just days ago) but mom is healed and I'll be able to concentrate on my own tasks soon. I always "like" your videos and I'm now trying to comment more so it may improve your you tube income. Does it help if I like on your facebook posts too?
It's so good that you are there for your mum, great to know she is all mended now and you can get back to your garden......whenever the pesky snow decided to go! Take care lovely and carry on being the independent lass you are. :-)
Cheers to you Vivi, we love you and all you get up to. We are here cheering you on always, through good and bad, happy and sad you can count on us. xxxx
You seem so much happier in yourself Vivi congrats on making 2 years. I remember watching you from the early days when you first appeared on camera,with your ever so neat garden, making us all up our game lol. Who would have thought back then, that you would end up with your own videos and following. Quite a few trials from then to now, but you made it. Very happy for you.
I know.....it seems bonkers now looking back. I'm so happy with where I'm at now......and thank you for following me over here and continuing to support. :-)
Congratulations Vivi! What a blessing to have come across your channel. :) I raise my cup of tea to you and I promise to be here, to enjoy and share with each other whatever life throws our way. ;)
Cheers, Vivi! It is hard to believe it has been two years. I so look forward to your videos. I have left the nursing world to care for ailing parents and recover from my own ailments. You are my inspiration and I will continue with you! ❤️
Congrats and cheers Viv .Thank you for sharing your life and friendship with us all .I hope you do move up north as saltburn is only half hour from me and id love to come and say hi :-) sending hugs your way xx
Oooh, we'd be neighbours! I do reckon it will happen at some point....just not sure when. I'd love to have an allotment up there but am also excited about the prospect of having my own little patch of land..... :-)
Congratulations Vivi! My family are always there to listen to my middle age ramblings and I hope we are all here to listen to yours. I look forward to your reflections every month together with shed chats . You are an inspiration and here’s to many more years to come x
Dear Vivi, sometimes you can be maried for 25 years and explaining how to put the dishes in dish washer, watering flowers, feed the dog....with no sucsses.From work, cooking and cleaning, gardening, lots of work with parties at weekends, sleaping 5 hours per night......and every year your housband sing you sooo beutiful song for your birthday you end up in tears. Children grown up, left the building and mother deside she will stop working and finaly doing thinks she like. Thet was 8 years ago and I get no suport of my family. Realy hits me. I never ask my husband for money and belive me I had 2 yobs most of my life. Till 30 I was a singel mom of two and I fineshed 5 years wood tehnical school in 3 years, working night shifts, when I was 40. I learned how to cook when I was 11, when we muwed from the city to my grandma farm and my parents started to build big house in old Yugoslavia. As I can remember, I always have to work hard. I will get my pension in 10 years, but I think mybe 400 euros. My mom gets 480 for 40 years of working. But I started paying my life inshurans 25 years ago and next year I get quite big money from thet. It will be 25 years! And betwin I make an non profit inshurans for 10 years wich inclouded hart atack, parkinson, alshimer, cancer....it is 40 evros per moth but in 2023 I get another 4000 out, like money in the bank with some benefits. I realy work hard for 7 months a year and then I rest 5 but its a winter time. We realy cant find people to work in sommer season. In al this unemploimet s..t in the country. When I am ded tiret at work my boss always says, dont wory about Vesna, she has some spare cows hips and pigs knees in her frezzer, we can change them any time hahahaaaaa..we work together for 8 years but they are 25 years yunger then me, love them. I was never realy deprest, I never have hadikes, once a year I am so sad I have to cry, dont ask me wich bone is not painful in my body and my friends say thet is yust in my head, my mind. I am yust feeling so tired.But my mom always says, work keep you helth, muweing, muweing, chop, chop. If she can do it in her 80 I must do it to, fertik! Hapy gardening, we will have some snow in Sunday and on Monday minus 4, so we will start with gardening in Yuly hahaaaa..love from Slovenia.
You work so very hard lovely.....but you always seem happy and grateful for your lot. I admire that in you so much. I wish I was your neighbour.....I would come and help in the fields or the restaurant! :-)
Hi Vivi! Congratulations on this anniversary! Now that I think of it I have been watching you since the beginning! Here is to many more years to come! Hugs!
Hey now, there's nowt wrong with Yorkshire! :P Thirsk's a lovely place, great for getting to York and having a wander around. Congratulations on two years, it's a real achievement and you should definitely be proud of yourself for it. Here's to many more years - and many more videos! They always put a smile on my face no matter how rough a day it's been, so thank you :)
Oh thank you Jayne.....it makes me so happy to know that folk get a smile from the videos.......I certainly get a big smile from the comments. Hahaha, Yorkshire's alright I guess. ;-) Hahaha. It's a beautiful county. :-)
Congrats!! 🎉🍾 Two years! The time sure did fly! You have certainly been a success doing what we all wish we could. Just remember, with 24 months experience under your belt it can only get better and more efficient. Except the odd challenge Mother Nature tosses at you. 😂🤪 Keep the faith!!
Thank you so much lovely.......those challenges that get tossed at us are what keep us young in heart and mind! I'm so looking forward to the next two years. :-)
Congratulations on your accomplishment Viv! Outstanding 🍾🎉 New to your channel for just a short time. Your open, cheerful approach to life is inspiring. I wish you health & much continued joy. 💖
Vivi, you are so brave to give up work and do what you do, as much as I would so love to do what you have achieved I am just too scared to do it. You are such an inspiration to me, keep going and your dreams will come true xx
Oh, Vivi!! How flippin marvellous you reached two years!! CONGRATULATIONS. I don't know where the time has gone. I loved hearing your thoughts on the future. I am always ruminating over my prospects and was interesting hearing yours. Gosh! Who knows what the future holds. Keep up the great work, you're doing so well Simon & Scott ❤️🌞🌷🥂
Thank you so much lovelies! Yes, the time has flown....kinda scarily quickly! I'm looking forward to the next few years.....whichever path I end up going down. :-)
You should make time for the pub with friends. I’m amazed you have done so well with your experiment. Holy cow! 60 steps!!! No wonder your poor little knees hurt. The older you get, the more one thinks about “who is going to help me when I’m old?”
Awwww, thank you so much lovelies! I'll be planting my Coco Sophies this week and thinking of you......and appreciating all your lovely encouragement these last two years. Thank you. X :-)
Hi vivie what a great chat that was. But we felt upset for all you have been through Hope you get a lovely piece of land and a cottage Windmill. Water supply and solar panels. You deserve it all. Keep near your family too. Wish it could be this year for you. Take care of yourself vivie. Carol and Bob
Thank you for two years of inspiration. Please some one set up a beer-at-the-pub-fund for Vivi :-) I would be happy to find a way to pay a bit for following this channel.
Congratulations Vivi! You've given us all so much with these videos! I'm so thankful to have found you in the sea of you tube channels. I think I'm going to come to London and help you in your garden! :) Wouldn't that be so much fun? You make me proud! :)
Congratulations & Happy Anniversary!! Great job and thanks for all the great videos. BTW, are you participating in Edible Britain sponsored by Erica’s Little Welsh Garden? You should! The playlist of participants is a wonderful tool for us to find more gardeners and for you to find new subscribers!!
Quite exciting Vivi. My how time flies. Two years already. Congratulations and continue on. I can't wait to be able to retire. I have a few years but it will happen. Janice
Congratulations! I can't believe it's been 2 years. When we made the decision for a drastic move away from the city I doubted it would be the right decision... but one never looks back
Oh that is brilliant to hear! I'm so happy for you that you could make your move........I'll know when the time is right for me and I'm already starting to look forward to it. :-)
Happy Anniversary, Vivi! I am a new subscriber & have a great deal of catching up to do on your videos! Love what you are doing & thanks for letting us share your world! ❤ from Pennsylvania, USA , on the shore of Lake Erie!
LOL that's what I thought, long time ago..... But now I'm 4 working days away from retirement from my little job (66+ in the Netherlands).... Congrats on the 2 years of living without a wage !!! it is an accomplishment to give yourself credit for. We moved also out of town because of space and I'm living now in a little cottage with a big garden(s) and a no-gardening partner, but also with a studio (glasswork) in the garden....I can understand not liking to leave London but I find the English countryside also nice when walking a.o. the Dales Way and Coast to coast path in Yorkshire. That's also getting harder because of knees.
Oh your new set-up sounds just lovely.....especially the little studio. Happy retirement in a few days - I wish you many, many years of joy and fun! :-)
Congratulations! I am praying that God would grant ypu the physical and mental strength to continue to be an inspiration to others worldwide. I am living in Sandton close by Johannesburg in South Africa. God bless you.
No, Vivi! Thank you! Thanks for all the entertainment, information, inspiration and generally just being you. Brilliant to hear you reflecting on where you've come to and sounding so positive about the future. Above all, thanks for sharing your world with us.
You should be so proud of what you have accomplished in the last 2 years! I'm living the same kind of dream, although with a husband who cooks occasionally, and does all the laundry. I'm spoiled rotten and wouldn't trade it for anything! I look forward to seeing all that year 3 has in store for you.
At 50 I couldn't imagine being 65. I'm now 64 and looking forward to 65. Getting older sure beats the alternative. Thanks for another fun heart felt share.
Happy anniversary, Vivi!! Wow! Two years already! Where did the time go?? Good chat today and with you on all points. 😄 Thankyou for taking us along for the ride! Here's to more gardening and chatting...clink, clink! 😘🥂🍻
Cheers Veronica. I know, it's a bit of a shock to think how quickly these two years have gone! Not always an easy time but I wouldn't change a thing. Clink, clink lovely. :-)
Vivi, well done. It is amazing what you can do without when needs must. I would love to see a video on your sewing. I also love your videos on your trips into London. No nursing pension? You were brave to make this move then. Yours is my favourite channel of all the ones on allotmenteering as you are instructive, and diverse ( cooking, sewing, making ungents (lovely old-fashioned word)., people, trips out. Super interesting. Keep it up.
I'll get my nursing pension in about 15 years time! Hahaha......until then......I'll do whatever and do without whatever. ;-) Thank you so much for your lovely comment.......when the gardening stuff calms down a bit (mid June I reckon) I have some more London trips planned for you. :-)
It has been a hot watching and hearing you for the past couple of years. You have been such an inspiration and motivator to me as well. I am with you all the way to the end and will enjoy all the bits in the middle along the way. Keep your chin up always looking to the light! Great job!!
2 years good for you. I must say you look so relaxed this year these days. Retirement is slowly creeping closer for me. Some days that thought seems so strange. I've worked at home for a company here in the states for over 20 years. I don't think I can really imagine getting up every morning have a cup of water and and getting to work that quick anymore..Some friends have really never understood i actually work 6 to 8 hours mon thru fri at home. Had to to earn what i needed to earn to survive on. I enjoy all your videos. Please don't stop. And I hope and pray you find things you can make money at and enjoy.
One line of my family can be traced back to Yorkshire, eons ago. :) My husband and I are similarly trying to figure out how we'd like our future to play out...and where. We've lived in the same place for 25 years. We adopted our homesteading lifestyle 6 years ago so, when we bought our home, we didn't have chickens and gardens in mind. We're making it work, but it's a tight squeeze. We are trying to decide whether to buy an adjoining property (if we can get it...it lies dormant but the owner doesn't seem keen to sell) so that we have a bit more room.....or whether to chuck it all in and move to a farm. It's a tough decision because our home/property is paid for and we really don't like the idea of going into debt and starting over at our age. On the other hand, we live in a neighborhood where, well, neighbors are close...so we feel a bit pressed in. It's a tough time in life for decision making. Wherever you are, keep growing and chatting and I'll keep watching! Congratulations on your "cotton" anniversary! You've done great and we're all thrilled for you. You continue to teach us so much!
Gosh, yes, tough decision......but better to do when young/strong enough to make the most of it? I really am torn about leaving London.......but I also want to do it while I still have the strength left to make a new garden and do up an old property.........eeek, decisions, decisions........ Thank you. always, for being there. ;-)
@@WhatVivididnext You don't know how many times I hear you speak of being a bit weary or your knees killing you or you're overwhelmed with all that you have to do (in life, not just in the garden....Wouldn't it be nice if 'life' were a garden?!?! ;) ) ...and I think, "I wish I Were near Vivi....I would show up with my workiest work clothes, Muck boots, and the fugliest ponytail you've every seen and we'd get AT whatever needed doing!" My Dad used to say having an extra set of hands to help really amounted to about 4 sets.
Viva, congratulations! I think you reached a tremendous milestone in your journey of living without a wage and you've done it with faith, hope, joy and humour. All things I've seen in your videos over the past year and a half or so that I've checked in on you. All best wishes as you continue with your plans. When I heard you mention your knees I thought of myself. My knees are really starting to hurt again and makes it hard to get into the garden as much as I'd like and between bad weather and bad knees getting the garden in has taken me a long time this year though I started early. This year I have 2 smaller gardens for the first time. I really haven't been up to going to the garden at the community plot but I was so blessed today. When I got to the plot there was a young lady in the next door and she not only turned my soil but pulled out a huge rosemary bush (which I gifted to her) and helped me figure out what to plant where. She accomplished in a very short time what it would take me 4 or 5x longer to do. I sure hope the seeds we just planted are not too old to germinate and thrive. Anyway I've said a lot about me but I just wanted you to know I understand how you are feeling physically and I applaud you for accepting your physical state and not only that doing all the hard labour you are doing. I don't think it would be possible if you did not love to be out in the soil. I wish you well in your future endeavours including generating more income.
Oh she sounds like a really wonderful garden neighbour to have! You totally have my empathy for your knee situation......it can be so frustrating (never mind painful!)......but we find ways around it eh? I hope all your lovely seeds germinate well and you continue to build your new friendship with your neighbour. Rest well! :-)
Cheers right back at you Vivi! Carry on, sweet one...you can do it! And just to let you know.... 65 will be with you before you know it. Somehow I went from 50 to 63 without blinking! It's just crazy how time flies...and you don't even have to be having fun! So congrats on 2 yrs of freedom from the boss...onwards you go! Dale from Canada
You are doing great! Your reasoning is sound and you have your enthusiastic outlook to rely on. I missed the structure of going to work, etc when I left employment. We make the right decision at the time and might adjust that decision as needed. Where ever you live, you will make more friends and then provide a great weekend retreat for visiting friends that were left behind. Who knows there might be more opportunities for a self-sustaining lifestyle in a new location. Are you certain that your great aunt is not able to move to the same new area that you can move to where you will have your own land? You sound like a "pros and cons" kind of person and will know the right path for your future when the time is right. Yay Vivi!
Hahaha - no, there's no budging her and I totally understand that.....she has lived there for 60+ years so I wouldn't dream of asking her to move now. :-)
My husband and I are adjusting to our new home,we have been here a year,we moved because my husband needed a ground floor flat as he has balance problems.we live in sheltered council housing
Bless you Vivi you are an inspiration, I could never imagine myself in my 60's, but here I am 67 this year and don't feel any different! It's so weird! You are blooming marvelous my lovely and still just a babe! x
I have just found your channel and wanted to say congratulations! I am a year behind you, having made the move last July. In fact, I moved 300 miles to a cheaper area (from Scotland) to a place that needed a bit of renovation. I am now attempting to knock the garden into shape, so I can have my own produce. Likewise, I have physical limitations (and on my own too), but just pace myself. It certainly seems you have done the right thing, so keep on doing your best and I shall enjoy watching your vlogs.
Oh how fantastic! Good on you, I'm so excited for you. Things may take a bit longer but you'll get there....and it will be so worth it. I hope you have a fantastic season with your garden......I will be keeping my fingers crossed for you and thinking of you. :-)
Hmmm, there are a few scattered through the back 'catalogue' already......and, I suppose, all my videos reference it to some degree or other.... Saying that though maybe it's time I sat down and did another one purely about the subject when I'm not gardening or cooking for example. Thank you for sowing that seed in my mind. :-)
I love your ethos and your moral, positive attitude. You are truly an inspiration. I hope we all have a brilliant growing year and happy times with friends and veggies. X
Thanks for the video I am sure I have watched it before. Great makes one think and appreciate what we have rather than not have. Like you I wish I had started gardening seriously in my earlier years as I do not stop learning I enjoy it so much that I am not bothered with going on holiday I can't wait to be in my little paradise. Anything that takes me away from it is not appreciated but I have a sense of duty to attend to some demands. Can't imagine leaving my birds behind.
Happy anniversary ❤️. You look so much healthier than you did 2 years ago. Life will always have stress, but you look so much more relaxed. Maybe try assigning tasks to a day, ie house repairs on Wednesday, rest on Thursday( read a book, fabric shop, check out charity shops, etc.) do what makes you happy. You’ve got this. Don’t over whelm you knees and wrists. Limit how much time you do each task. I think that life presents you with what you need as you need it. The stairs are hard, but probably keeping the arthritis from seizing up your knees. Getting ill is a major worry, but it’s not like you’re geriatric yet girl! You’re still in a learning curve. It will get easier. The future pension will help you move later. The time will fly by, so enjoy them. We all love you. Have a great anniversary
Aww, lovely, thank you so much! Your support has been amazing over the years.....and you give it so freely despite what you are dealing with yourself. You are a very special person.......with a very special and lovely family. Thank you. X
WOW! 176 videos later...
Where did the time go!??! LOL I remember being so thrilled when you started your own channel.
But really Vivi, I have to say that you have also been a very large part of our lives too. Hearty congratulations on your 2nd anniversary & may you have many more years of love & laughter... living without a wage.
😎🤗 Big hugs!
Here's the crazy thing.......it's actually 299 videos! (a lot of them aren't numbered).......it only seems like yesterday when this all started......I have been blown away over the last couple of years by all of you watching and commenting and giving such amazing support and encouragement......I feel ridiculously blessed. Thank you for being such a massive part of that. X :-)
I'm all for you Vivi. It's hard to find the right words...I watch your videos and see your kindness, your frustrations, your honesty and wish that all of us who care about you could be your sisters and help make your dreams come true. You are smart and capable, you will know what to do as you do now. I believe in you.
Oh, lovely, thank you so much. :-)
Have I been watching you that long? Congratulations are in order. Allow yourself to fathom how much you and your journey mean to virtual strangers all around the globe. Thanx, Vivi. Many thanks.
Gosh, thank you Joseph.....that's a rather big thought to get my head around! I have loved sharing and really love the interaction between us all. It has been a ball so far! :-)
I fully understand Vivi, being divorced single parent for 25+ years and now helping raise grandchildren on a very pinced dime. I also often wish I had a partner to share the decisions, work, fun, all of it. I get just enough, thank the Lord, to stay afloat. I sell a painting occasionally, that helps. I spent a bit of my savings recently for s vacation but now have to rebuild that account!
Please know we understand and see you as a very smart, strong woman. You're thinking ahead, very good!
Have a happy week!
Good on you for treating yourself to time off. Your paintings are lovely and I'm sure you will sell plenty more to replenish the savings fund. Thank you lovely. :-)
Continued blessings, sweet Vivi! Wherever you go whatever you do I feel certain you will bloom where you are planted. I love sharing a small part of my day with you!
Oh thank you Christy.....what a lovely thought. :-)
Yay! Vivi 🎉💪
No thank you for your channel! Congratulations on the two years, it has been a total pleasure to watch you. I left England in the 80's for Canada, so home sick was always searching for stuff to watch that would show me the surroundings, and the people, I watch every show and wedding, sports whatever I can to feel apart still, well I stumbled upon your channel (as you know) and I instantly fell, you give me real, and more real, you show me the spirit of human I love, you keep my pride of the uk, your trip to London had me in tears of happiness and pride!
You are a brave and strong lady, an example of a typical Brit., love, laughter, strong opinions, huge wit and heart!
Keep going lady gardener, and I'll no we'll keep watching and supporting.
Much love to you from Canada ❤
Oh thank you so much Denise - that means the world to me. :-) And when the garden stuff calms down a bit I have a number of 'trips' in London planned to share with you all. Thank you lovely. :-)
Loved “talking” with you this past half hour or so, it really does feel like we’ve been chatting. I love your story and really get you. It’s all about the mystery of life, no one knows what the future will bring. You are such an inspiration, so open and real. Thank you for sharing.
Thank you so much Ita. :-)
Vivi, your such a wonderful person in every way, no way should you be with out a partner who can cook and be there for you. I'm positive you will meet that person sooner rather than later. Very warming and honest video, you've done so amazingly well doing this for the past 2 years. If I had some Bubbly....I would toast to you. x
Awwww, thank you so much......never mind the bubbly we can raise a cup of tea to each other. :-)
Congrats on two years. Time flies.
Turning 65 and getting a pension made a big difference in my life. I was able to buy a small bungalow, 546 sq. ft., with a back garden with fruit trees.
Of course it is way out in the boonies.
I know what you mean about living alone. I sure could do with help doing yard work, gardening and house cleaning.
~ Jon in rural BC, Canada
In the boonies - hahaha, I love that! That's all I want for myself too. If I was your neighbour I'd come and give you a hand. ;-)
I really appreciate how honestly you share your feelings. Not many people in my life share so openly. It makes me feel I'm not alone in my struggles. I do have a wonderful husband and am grateful for him. But none of us are without our faults. 😋 You inspire me to live a life that reflects me.
Oh that's beautiful Susan, thank you..........yes, we should all live a life that reflects who we are.......not what anyone else thinks or says we should be. Go you! :-)
I was laughing at the conclusion.....when you said you could see yourself giving your thoughts on month 390 or whatever you said. You are doing what I always dreamed of doing, and by that I mean living off the land. I always enjoyed reading books about this lifestyle, such as The Good Life by the Nearings, and the books about homesteads of the ones trying to make it. However, I never achieved that and ended up teaching most of my career. Vivi, keep going! You are an inspiration.
Thank you so much Carolyn......and huge respect to you for being a teacher! I have many friends who are teachers so I know what a hard job it can be......but also so very rewarding. We need you wonderful teachers! Thank you for all you do. :-)
Fabulous. What an amazing two years! I can't quite believe we've been along in this journey with you for two years. Extraordinary. Here's to the next year; and you know where to come for chilled bubbles. 😊
It's hard to believe it's two years......and it's so lovely that the folk who have come along on the journey with me have become friends......albeit at a distance for the most part.......but I do feel a genuine sense of warmth and friendship from folk. That's special. You two are just what I mean. :-)
@@WhatVivididnext 😁😊😁
This is sooooo cool Vivi, you should be absolutely proud of yourself!!!! 👍 ❤ 😍 🌷 😘 🌹 🌞
Oh thank you so much Sandra. :-)
I could totally watch you for another 20 Vivi! And I can so see you in the country with a cottage, garden and a Wolfie pup running around! London will always be there to visit and play in with friends but having a large network of reliable family and friends is a must when you are a single elder. I am watching my family do this now and it does start to boggle the mind. But enough of that, for now, CONGRATULATIONS on 24 months you wonderful woman, you are doing fabulous! 😘💜😘💚😘💙😘💛😘
Ohhhh, see now you have me wanting to make the move today just so I can have the Wolfie pup! Hahaha, thank you so much lovely, your comments and support over all this time have been wonderful! :-)
Two years Vivi! What an amazing achievement! Good for you & I look forward to seeing what the next couple of years bring 😊xx
Thank you so much. :-)
I'm from Yorkshire, it's beautiful. I wouldn't want to be anywhere else.
It is a stunning county. I love visiting my family there........they're all in N. Yorkshire and my sister lives on the edge of the park......gorgeous beaches up north too. :-)
Hi Vivi. Happy independent self sufficient day of year 2. Well done to you, very ballsy move and well done for sticking to it. I think you are an absolutely amazing woman.
Oh Tracy thank you so much! :-)
Dear Viv, after many years service I was pushed to retirement at age 66. i was not ready. i loved the work I was doing at that point and I was not happy. That was two years ago and I cannot say where the time has gone. solace has been my garden. I need to make a few more changes and they will come in time. I am lucky to have good knees and back and hands.. But i raised my two kids alone and have been alone for a very long time. It is not easy. It does not get easier but the alternative was not an option. I am so glad for you that you have your garden, your apartment and your gifts for filming and conversation. congratulations on your two years independence! .wishing you much happiness on your future endeavours. I hope to see lots of garden videos this summer and regular updates on Rusty. In due time, When you do move north, there will be a place to call home. It may not be what you dream of, but it will be a space that with vision, you will turn into a wonderful, beautiful welcoming space. i hope you take us along for the journey. cheers!
Awww, Carol thank you.....I'm sure, wherever I lay my hat I will call it home. Good on you lovely for getting on and getting it done on your own. :-)
well done enjoy what your doing i love your videos onward and no regrets xx
Thank you Viv. :-)
Congrats and cheers to you! You're quite an inspiration! And I'll certainly be here for the next 15 years (LOL)! If you do move in the future.......I sure hope you take us along with you! I think I can speak for everyone else in saying that we'd all miss you to pieces if you stopped making videos. I look forward to your videos and get excited every time you post a new one. Anyway.....enough of my rambling on..........have a great week!
Thank you so much Cara. Gosh, yes.....as and when I move I'll certainly be bringing you along with me. :-)
Cheers Vivi!!! ❤️ You are a role model for me when I feel discouraged. And I know what you'd say to that...you don't always feel it...but you are and that's all there is to that! 😀
Oh thank you Colleen.....I'm very happy to be here for you on rubbish days. :-)
HI Vivi,
Congratulations on the second year ended. And a big, big, big hug!!!!!!!!
You mastered those two years with flying colours.
I'm there from the beginning, which I find wonderful.
I found you when I was badly ill and had to lie in bed for several weeks. What do you do then? You surf through the internet and find Vivi!
I also find it completely normal and absolutely honest that you stand by your feelings and emotions. Nowhere does the sun always shine.
In these two years, such a large, strong community has built up that sometimes you don't even like to believe it.
We communicate with each other, support ourselves and learn from each other.
Dear Vivi, I am sure that you will continue your path, find ways to pay your bills and will also find a lot of joy and fun, relaxation and quiet time in the garden with distressing knees and wrists.
A beer on your two-year-old. (This time I have one at home)
Big hug and a thousand cuddles
Claudia
Oh thank you so much Claudia.....and thank you so much for your kind and thoroughly engaging comments over the years, they are always much appreciated. :-)
Hi Vivi, Time flys OMG I can't believe it's been over 2 years if I count the time I watched you on Sean's channel. I have friends at work that are retiring or getting ready to retire and it's alittle discerning to think about how many years I have to go before I can even think about it for myself. You are a very strong and resourceful woman to do what you have done over the last 2 years and doing it all by yourself is amazing. It's hard doing it on my own and that's with a job. There is nothing wrong with having a pity party and a good cry to release frustration or anger as long as you come back from it in a better place and move forward. It's never bothered me to cry when I'm happy but I never wanted people to see me cry when I was upset or hurt but now that I've hit 50 seems like that's all I want to do some days. We love you Vivi and know we will always be here for support and to listen when you need to be heard. Till next time....much Love from across the pond.
Oh thank you so much Anita! Ah, yes, I'm a firm believer in a good, occasional cry to get it all out........so long as there's more laughter than crying I reckon we're doing ok! ;-)
I would still be watching for twenty years, God willing! Congratulations on two years and I can see in you cute cottage with your beautiful garden, it would be lovely
Oh thank you lovely! :-)
Anyone else having a lovely time rewatching Vivi’s old vlogs?! 🙋🏼♀️ who would have thought 2 years turned into 6/7! Inspiring
Aww, thank you lovely! Gosh, no.....I had no idea I'd still be at it after7 years! 😄
Congratulations on your 24 months Vivi. Onward and upwards to moving forward to a new beginning. Learning to pace yourself. Your dreams will come true believe. (Pleased you liked the card, did it with my own fair hand, just for you)💖🐞🌹
I guessed you had made it yourself - it's so beautiful! I have it in the shed at the moment but am torn as I would like it at home too. ;-) I'm going to make a pin board for the shed so I can have somewhere to display my lovely cards. Thank you! :-)
Go Vivi!
You are possibly the most determined, and hard working person I know.
Well done on your 2 year anniversary, and here is to many more!
I totally sympathise with the ‘self employed’ wage and no such thing as a sick day, I used to sew for a living, it is SO much hard work!
Yorkshire is lovely, I lived around Huddersfield for years, and you get so much more land for your money there- it is where we are looking at when we eventually get our smallholding too.
Take care, much love, Jaz x
Sewing has to be one of THE slowest ways to make a quid! Hahaha - good job I enjoy it.....and it's something I can fit around my knees and my food growing time! Thank you for you lovely, kind words.........I think I'm just plain old stubborn! ;-) Cheers to us both...doing our own thing, cocking a snook at the expected 'norm'.....and looking after our wee planet while we do it. Heaps of love to you all. :-)
Vivi, this video was absolutely fantastic. It's such a pleasure listening to you talk about reflections, visions, and fantasy dreams. Living alone does have it's down con things but then there are the up pro things. I, for the first time since college, which is 50 years ago, am finally truly living alone. The responsibility load has diminished tremendously. I too still have family responsibilities with a 92 year mother in law and a daughter that still needs a little help once in a while but it's wonderful to actually have a house to my self. Now for those that have lived decades on their own by them selves it's not a good feeling. My kids and grand kids are scattered from one end of the country to the other and this country is very big. One grand daughter is in Hawaii which is about 8,000 miles from where I live. When she graduates from college, I'll be traveling there to see her graduate. It will take 12 hours of flying on an airplane just to get there.
I don't have 60 steps in my house but some day even the trek up the 16 steps to the bedroom will probably not be something I would want to navigate. My oldest daughter said I could come live with her when that time comes but sadly she lives in a desert area where gardens do not grow and yards are nothing but rocks, cactus, and palm trees that have to be watered every day. I love Nebraska where trees are thick with blossoms in the Spring, seeds sprout and grow right in the ground, and each season brings its beauty.
I am about 20 years ahead of you. I'm into the retirement years and have a couple small sources of income that is enough to live on with in reason. I'm not an extravagant person and live meagerly. I'm not one for fancy food or drink and am quite happy just being at home watching the traffic drive by or in the garden watching the birds fly by. I don't fit the mold of my generation in this country. Like you, I like nature, quiet, and relationships.
Have a great day contemplating the years ahead.
Nebraska Dave
There is a great deal to be said for simple food and drink and the simple pleasures of the garden......especially the sitting and watching bit. Cheers lovely......may we both enjoy many more years of the simple and oh so good life. :-)
Congratulations Vivi! I've been watching almost since the beginning and really, really want to wish you well. Good health, great gardening. May the road rise up to meet you. Cheers from New Jersey.
Oh thank you Sofia......I love that road expression. X :-)
You are such an inspiration to me. I'm starting over this year and I watch you and know that I can do it myself. (New widow. )
Oh Charlene, I'm so sorry you have lost your partner.......gosh, what a transition you must be going through.........yes, you can do it.....and I'll be rooting for you! Sending hugs and masses of positive energy your way. X
Well done, You! I often wish I was in a better place, financially, to leave my job, and do something like what you're doing. I'm in a job I don't care for, but I can't stop working until I've reached a few financial goals. I like to say I'm inching my way out the door, lol. I think I can make the change in about 2 years, but that seems like an eternity from now, lol. I know I'll get there. In the mean time, thank you for putting yourself, your triumphs, and your setbacks out there for us to follow.
Oh you will get there Charissa, you will! You're already on your way.......just this final push. I'm so excited for you and wish you so much success when you make that big change! Good on you! :-)
As always, you’re a continued inspiration to me. I really don’t know how you do it. Completely amazing. That little cottage with a garden full of veggies sounds perfect! And I know you’ll get there. I just know it. Have a fabulous week, Vivi xxx
Thank you so much sweetie.......one day eh? I keep the dream in my mind and continue practicing for the day in my little place here. :-)
Congratulations on 24 months! I was working in my garden Sunday early evening and tripped and fractured my foot. Now I can’t put weight on it for at least 6 weeks. So I’m going to have to get someone to help me water my garden. I broke this same foot last August but back then it wasn’t as bad a break.
Get well soon!
Oh no! Oh gosh I do hope you can get help with the garden (and at home!)......the wrong time of year for an injury missy! Next time you want to fracture something do it in the winter. ;-) Heal well and quickly lovely. :-)
Congrats on 2 years! It's good of you to think about future options. I can't imagine doing 60 steps with bad knees - good for you to persevere. I lived without a wage for several years and I don't need a lot of "things" to make me happy so I really enjoy your videos and philosophy of life.
I live in the states and am old enough to collect social security. To have the confidence of that monthly payment feels good. I'm fortunate to live in the same small home for 32 years and I have a yard. I do have a veggie garden but not that I grow enough to feed myself for the entire year. But each year the maintenance gets a bit harder and I don't have someone to share the burden with either. At the same time I enjoy my independence and I will continue as long as I can. I don't have a great aunt that I help but this winter my mother broke her ankle and now she is having cataract surgery; it's been many trips (I have a car and it's only an hour drive) to help her. I can't do much in the gardens yet (we got 10+ inches of snow just days ago) but mom is healed and I'll be able to concentrate on my own tasks soon. I always "like" your videos and I'm now trying to comment more so it may improve your you tube income. Does it help if I like on your facebook posts too?
It's so good that you are there for your mum, great to know she is all mended now and you can get back to your garden......whenever the pesky snow decided to go! Take care lovely and carry on being the independent lass you are. :-)
Cheers to you Vivi, we love you and all you get up to. We are here cheering you on always, through good and bad, happy and sad you can count on us. xxxx
Thank you so much Michelle!.......and I hope you can see that I love my Christmas mug! :-)
You seem so much happier in yourself Vivi congrats on making 2 years. I remember watching you from the early days when you first appeared on camera,with your ever so neat garden, making us all up our game lol. Who would have thought back then, that you would end up with your own videos and following. Quite a few trials from then to now, but you made it. Very happy for you.
I know.....it seems bonkers now looking back. I'm so happy with where I'm at now......and thank you for following me over here and continuing to support. :-)
Congratulations!
So you are in my life that long?
Wow!
Hahahah - looks like. ;-) Thank you so much lovely. :-)
Congratulations Vivi! What a blessing to have come across your channel. :) I raise my cup of tea to you and I promise to be here, to enjoy and share with each other whatever life throws our way. ;)
Oh thank you! :-)
Cheers, Vivi! It is hard to believe it has been two years. I so look forward to your videos. I have left the nursing world to care for ailing parents and recover from my own ailments. You are my inspiration and I will continue with you! ❤️
Oh thank you Carola. I hope you are remembering to look after yourself too.......nurses are notoriously rubbish at caring for themselves! ;-)
Congrats and cheers Viv .Thank you for sharing your life and friendship with us all .I hope you do move up north as saltburn is only half hour from me and id love to come and say hi :-) sending hugs your way xx
Oooh, we'd be neighbours! I do reckon it will happen at some point....just not sure when. I'd love to have an allotment up there but am also excited about the prospect of having my own little patch of land..... :-)
@@WhatVivididnext When the time comes i will help u with whatever u need and bring tea and cake :) xx
Congratulations Vivi! My family are always there to listen to my middle age ramblings and I hope we are all here to listen to yours. I look forward to your reflections every month together with shed chats . You are an inspiration and here’s to many more years to come x
Awww, Kim, thank you......it's good to have folk to ramble to! :-)
Dear Vivi, sometimes you can be maried for 25 years and explaining how to put the dishes in dish washer, watering flowers, feed the dog....with no sucsses.From work, cooking and cleaning, gardening, lots of work with parties at weekends, sleaping 5 hours per night......and every year your housband sing you sooo beutiful song for your birthday you end up in tears. Children grown up, left the building and mother deside she will stop working and finaly doing thinks she like. Thet was 8 years ago and I get no suport of my family. Realy hits me. I never ask my husband for money and belive me I had 2 yobs most of my life. Till 30 I was a singel mom of two and I fineshed 5 years wood tehnical school in 3 years, working night shifts, when I was 40. I learned how to cook when I was 11, when we muwed from the city to my grandma farm and my parents started to build big house in old Yugoslavia. As I can remember, I always have to work hard. I will get my pension in 10 years, but I think mybe 400 euros. My mom gets 480 for 40 years of working. But I started paying my life inshurans 25 years ago and next year I get quite big money from thet. It will be 25 years! And betwin I make an non profit inshurans for 10 years wich inclouded hart atack, parkinson, alshimer, cancer....it is 40 evros per moth but in 2023 I get another 4000 out, like money in the bank with some benefits. I realy work hard for 7 months a year and then I rest 5 but its a winter time. We realy cant find people to work in sommer season. In al this unemploimet s..t in the country. When I am ded tiret at work my boss always says, dont wory about Vesna, she has some spare cows hips and pigs knees in her frezzer, we can change them any time hahahaaaaa..we work together for 8 years but they are 25 years yunger then me, love them. I was never realy deprest, I never have hadikes, once a year I am so sad I have to cry, dont ask me wich bone is not painful in my body and my friends say thet is yust in my head, my mind. I am yust feeling so tired.But my mom always says, work keep you helth, muweing, muweing, chop, chop. If she can do it in her 80 I must do it to, fertik! Hapy gardening, we will have some snow in Sunday and on Monday minus 4, so we will start with gardening in Yuly hahaaaa..love from Slovenia.
You work so very hard lovely.....but you always seem happy and grateful for your lot. I admire that in you so much. I wish I was your neighbour.....I would come and help in the fields or the restaurant! :-)
Congratulations for the two years and that there are many more 😀👏🎉
Ohbthank you Teresa - I hope so too! :-)
Hi Vivi! Congratulations on this anniversary! Now that I think of it I have been watching you since the beginning! Here is to many more years to come! Hugs!
Thank you, Alda, so much for coming along on the journey with me. :-)
Hey now, there's nowt wrong with Yorkshire! :P Thirsk's a lovely place, great for getting to York and having a wander around. Congratulations on two years, it's a real achievement and you should definitely be proud of yourself for it. Here's to many more years - and many more videos! They always put a smile on my face no matter how rough a day it's been, so thank you :)
Oh thank you Jayne.....it makes me so happy to know that folk get a smile from the videos.......I certainly get a big smile from the comments. Hahaha, Yorkshire's alright I guess. ;-) Hahaha. It's a beautiful county. :-)
Congratulations. Thank you for being real, thank you for the teaching mentoring and hope you give.
Oh gosh John, thank you so much. :-)
That is so fantastic how things have worked out for you! Absolutely brilliant!
Thank you so much. :-)
Well done Vivi...brilliant...
Thank you lovely. :-)
Congratulations! You are so brave to take the leap, and to carry on no matter what! You're my hero.
Oh gosh Jean, thank you so much. :-)
Congrats!! 🎉🍾 Two years! The time sure did fly! You have certainly been a success doing what we all wish we could. Just remember, with 24 months experience under your belt it can only get better and more efficient. Except the odd challenge Mother Nature tosses at you. 😂🤪 Keep the faith!!
Thank you so much lovely.......those challenges that get tossed at us are what keep us young in heart and mind! I'm so looking forward to the next two years. :-)
Congratulations on your accomplishment Viv! Outstanding 🍾🎉 New to your channel for just a short time. Your open, cheerful approach to life is inspiring. I wish you health & much continued joy. 💖
Oh thank you so much! :-)
Vivi, you are so brave to give up work and do what you do, as much as I would so love to do what you have achieved I am just too scared to do it. You are such an inspiration to me, keep going and your dreams will come true xx
Awwww, thank you so much Anita......and, hey, never say never. ;-)
Vivvi keep going and THANK YOU FOR EVERY THING YOU HAVE SHARED ,WE LOVE yOUxxx
Thank you so much Pat......I'm so grateful for everyone's comments of support and encouragement.......I really do 'feel the love'. :-)
Well done Vivi! Looking forward to many, many more years together! :) Hugs and Love!
Ooooh, I hope so! Thank you lovely. :-)
Oh, Vivi!! How flippin marvellous you reached two years!! CONGRATULATIONS.
I don't know where the time has gone. I loved hearing your thoughts on the future. I am always ruminating over my prospects and was interesting hearing yours. Gosh! Who knows what the future holds.
Keep up the great work, you're doing so well
Simon & Scott
❤️🌞🌷🥂
Thank you so much lovelies! Yes, the time has flown....kinda scarily quickly! I'm looking forward to the next few years.....whichever path I end up going down. :-)
You should make time for the pub with friends. I’m amazed you have done so well with your experiment. Holy cow! 60 steps!!!
No wonder your poor little knees hurt. The older you get, the more one thinks about “who is going to help me when I’m old?”
Hahaha, yes, 60......I try NOT to count them each and every time. ;-)
You go girl. So inspiring watching your videos. :)
Thank you so much Eleonor. :-)
Well done Vivi. You are an inspiration!
Awwww, thank you so much lovelies! I'll be planting my Coco Sophies this week and thinking of you......and appreciating all your lovely encouragement these last two years. Thank you. X :-)
Hi vivie what a great chat that was. But we felt upset for all you have been through Hope you get a lovely piece of land and a cottage Windmill. Water supply and solar panels. You deserve it all. Keep near your family too. Wish it could be this year for you. Take care of yourself vivie. Carol and Bob
Awww, thank you both so much. I'm pretty sure the cottage will happen......one day.... :-)
Thank you for two years of inspiration.
Please some one set up a beer-at-the-pub-fund for Vivi :-) I would be happy to find a way to pay a bit for following this channel.
Vivi does have PayPal and her details are in the video description. Hope this helps! All the best, Tom
Thank you so much Tom. :-)
Hahaha - thank you Inger! ;-)
Congratulations Vivi! You've given us all so much with these videos! I'm so thankful to have found you in the sea of you tube channels. I think I'm going to come to London and help you in your garden! :) Wouldn't that be so much fun? You make me proud! :)
Oooh, that would be lovely! Thank you Wendy. :-)
Congratulations & Happy Anniversary!! Great job and thanks for all the great videos. BTW, are you participating in Edible Britain sponsored by Erica’s Little Welsh Garden? You should! The playlist of participants is a wonderful tool for us to find more gardeners and for you to find new subscribers!!
I most certainly am participating - mine will be out this evening. Thank you so much. :-)
Loved this vid Vivi ... can't believe it's 2 years 😲 ... so positive and upbeat .. AND you're going to continue... so happy for you 😍🥕
Awww, thank you so much Tracy! Here's to another couple of years! :-)
Wonderful update Vivi thank you for sharing and making these video's
Thank you lovely. :-)
Quite exciting Vivi. My how time flies. Two years already. Congratulations and continue on. I can't wait to be able to retire. I have a few years but it will happen. Janice
Hurrah for retirement......bring it on....and the pension! ;-)
Congratulations! I can't believe it's been 2 years. When we made the decision for a drastic move away from the city I doubted it would be the right decision... but one never looks back
Oh that is brilliant to hear! I'm so happy for you that you could make your move........I'll know when the time is right for me and I'm already starting to look forward to it. :-)
Well done Vivi....lovely inspiring video.x
Thank you so much lovely......one of these days we'll bump into each other on the sea front and get to have a cup of tea and a jolly good natter! ;-)
Happy Anniversary, Vivi! I am a new subscriber & have a great deal of catching up to do on your videos! Love what you are doing & thanks for letting us share your world! ❤ from Pennsylvania, USA , on the shore of Lake Erie!
Oh thank you Gerri....and a big warm welcome to you! :-)
Happy Anniversary, Vivi! Good job. Have fun following your dreams.
Thank you Lena. :-)
LOL that's what I thought, long time ago..... But now I'm 4 working days away from retirement from my little job (66+ in the Netherlands)....
Congrats on the 2 years of living without a wage !!! it is an accomplishment to give yourself credit for.
We moved also out of town because of space and I'm living now in a little cottage with a big garden(s) and a no-gardening partner, but also with a studio (glasswork) in the garden....I can understand not liking to leave London but I find the English countryside also nice when walking a.o. the Dales Way and Coast to coast path in Yorkshire. That's also getting harder because of knees.
Oh your new set-up sounds just lovely.....especially the little studio. Happy retirement in a few days - I wish you many, many years of joy and fun! :-)
Congratulations! I am praying that God would grant ypu the physical and mental strength to continue to be an inspiration to others worldwide. I am living in Sandton close by Johannesburg in South Africa. God bless you.
Thank you so much Neels. I hope you are enjoying a beautiful autumn. :-)
Congrats Vivi, 24 months....yay! :)
Thank you. :-)
Great chat Vivi. Congratulations. 😁🍻🌱 Keep doing what you do....I know what I mean...I hope you do. Take care.
Aww, yes, thank you Jill. :-)
Yay! Congrats!!!!
Thanks Tom. :-)
No, Vivi! Thank you! Thanks for all the entertainment, information, inspiration and generally just being you. Brilliant to hear you reflecting on where you've come to and sounding so positive about the future. Above all, thanks for sharing your world with us.
You should be so proud of what you have accomplished in the last 2 years! I'm living the same kind of dream, although with a husband who cooks occasionally, and does all the laundry. I'm spoiled rotten and wouldn't trade it for anything! I look forward to seeing all that year 3 has in store for you.
Ooooh, can I borrow him sometime for a spot of cooking? ;-) Good on you lovely and thank you. :-)
Wow that's a great accomplishment 🤗🤗💃💃👍👍
Hahaha, kinda bonkers - I'm loving it. Thank you Candi. :-)
At 50 I couldn't imagine being 65. I'm now 64 and looking forward to 65. Getting older sure beats the alternative. Thanks for another fun heart felt share.
It sure does! Cheers to that! :-)
Happy anniversary, Vivi!! Wow! Two years already! Where did the time go?? Good chat today and with you on all points. 😄 Thankyou for taking us along for the ride! Here's to more gardening and chatting...clink, clink! 😘🥂🍻
Cheers Veronica. I know, it's a bit of a shock to think how quickly these two years have gone! Not always an easy time but I wouldn't change a thing. Clink, clink lovely. :-)
Vivi, well done. It is amazing what you can do without when needs must.
I would love to see a video on your sewing. I also love your videos on your trips into London.
No nursing pension? You were brave to make this move then.
Yours is my favourite channel of all the ones on allotmenteering as you are instructive, and diverse ( cooking, sewing, making ungents (lovely old-fashioned word)., people, trips out.
Super interesting. Keep it up.
I'll get my nursing pension in about 15 years time! Hahaha......until then......I'll do whatever and do without whatever. ;-) Thank you so much for your lovely comment.......when the gardening stuff calms down a bit (mid June I reckon) I have some more London trips planned for you. :-)
Thanks for the video congratulation on your achievement. 65 Vivi I can see it some of us do not get old you know, we just mature.
Hahahaha - absolutely! Cheers lovely. :-)
It has been a hot watching and hearing you for the past couple of years. You have been such an inspiration and motivator to me as well. I am with you all the way to the end and will enjoy all the bits in the middle along the way. Keep your chin up always looking to the light! Great job!!
Thank you so much Angie. :-)
2 years good for you. I must say you look so relaxed this year these days. Retirement is slowly creeping closer for me. Some days that thought seems so strange. I've worked at home for a company here in the states for over 20 years. I don't think I can really imagine getting up every morning have a cup of water and and getting to work that quick anymore..Some friends have really never understood i actually work 6 to 8 hours mon thru fri at home. Had to to earn what i needed to earn to survive on.
I enjoy all your videos. Please don't stop. And I hope and pray you find things you can make money at and enjoy.
Thank you so much Patricia.......oh, when that retirement comes enjoy every second of it.......no more alarm clocks!! ;-)
@@WhatVivididnext Thank you so much Vivi made my day and I will.
One line of my family can be traced back to Yorkshire, eons ago. :) My husband and I are similarly trying to figure out how we'd like our future to play out...and where. We've lived in the same place for 25 years. We adopted our homesteading lifestyle 6 years ago so, when we bought our home, we didn't have chickens and gardens in mind. We're making it work, but it's a tight squeeze. We are trying to decide whether to buy an adjoining property (if we can get it...it lies dormant but the owner doesn't seem keen to sell) so that we have a bit more room.....or whether to chuck it all in and move to a farm. It's a tough decision because our home/property is paid for and we really don't like the idea of going into debt and starting over at our age. On the other hand, we live in a neighborhood where, well, neighbors are close...so we feel a bit pressed in. It's a tough time in life for decision making. Wherever you are, keep growing and chatting and I'll keep watching! Congratulations on your "cotton" anniversary! You've done great and we're all thrilled for you. You continue to teach us so much!
Gosh, yes, tough decision......but better to do when young/strong enough to make the most of it? I really am torn about leaving London.......but I also want to do it while I still have the strength left to make a new garden and do up an old property.........eeek, decisions, decisions........ Thank you. always, for being there. ;-)
@@WhatVivididnext You don't know how many times I hear you speak of being a bit weary or your knees killing you or you're overwhelmed with all that you have to do (in life, not just in the garden....Wouldn't it be nice if 'life' were a garden?!?! ;) ) ...and I think, "I wish I Were near Vivi....I would show up with my workiest work clothes, Muck boots, and the fugliest ponytail you've every seen and we'd get AT whatever needed doing!" My Dad used to say having an extra set of hands to help really amounted to about 4 sets.
Viva, congratulations! I think you reached a tremendous milestone in your journey of living without a wage and you've done it with faith, hope, joy and humour. All things I've seen in your videos over the past year and a half or so that I've checked in on you. All best wishes as you continue with your plans. When I heard you mention your knees I thought of myself. My knees are really starting to hurt again and makes it hard to get into the garden as much as I'd like and between bad weather and bad knees getting the garden in has taken me a long time this year though I started early. This year I have 2 smaller gardens for the first time. I really haven't been up to going to the garden at the community plot but I was so blessed today. When I got to the plot there was a young lady in the next door and she not only turned my soil but pulled out a huge rosemary bush (which I gifted to her) and helped me figure out what to plant where. She accomplished in a very short time what it would take me 4 or 5x longer to do. I sure hope the seeds we just planted are not too old to germinate and thrive. Anyway I've said a lot about me but I just wanted you to know I understand how you are feeling physically and I applaud you for accepting your physical state and not only that doing all the hard labour you are doing. I don't think it would be possible if you did not love to be out in the soil. I wish you well in your future endeavours including generating more income.
Oh she sounds like a really wonderful garden neighbour to have! You totally have my empathy for your knee situation......it can be so frustrating (never mind painful!)......but we find ways around it eh? I hope all your lovely seeds germinate well and you continue to build your new friendship with your neighbour. Rest well! :-)
Arrr well done Vivi. Your doing so well and your looking so well on it. I sincerely hope that you continue to enjoy your life to. 🥂
Awww, thank you lovely. ;-)
Congratulations Vivi 💕⭐️🎉🍾 regards Maria and Grant
Oh thank you both. :-)
Cheers right back at you Vivi! Carry on, sweet one...you can do it!
And just to let you know.... 65 will be with you before you know it. Somehow I went from 50 to 63 without blinking! It's just crazy how time flies...and you don't even have to be having fun!
So congrats on 2 yrs of freedom from the boss...onwards you go!
Dale from Canada
Thank you so much lovely......going by the last few years I reckon I will experience the birthdays without blinking too! ;-)
You are doing great! Your reasoning is sound and you have your enthusiastic outlook to rely on. I missed the structure of going to work, etc when I left employment. We make the right decision at the time and might adjust that decision as needed. Where ever you live, you will make more friends and then provide a great weekend retreat for visiting friends that were left behind. Who knows there might be more opportunities for a self-sustaining lifestyle in a new location. Are you certain that your great aunt is not able to move to the same new area that you can move to where you will have your own land? You sound like a "pros and cons" kind of person and will know the right path for your future when the time is right. Yay Vivi!
Hahaha - no, there's no budging her and I totally understand that.....she has lived there for 60+ years so I wouldn't dream of asking her to move now. :-)
My husband and I are adjusting to our new home,we have been here a year,we moved because my husband needed a ground floor flat as he has balance problems.we live in sheltered council housing
Happy new home to you both. :-)
Bless you Vivi you are an inspiration, I could never imagine myself in my 60's, but here I am 67 this year and don't feel any different! It's so weird! You are blooming marvelous my lovely and still just a babe! x
Aww, thank you lovely! Here's to being babes into our 90's!!! :-)
Congratulations Vivi!
Thank you. :-)
I have just found your channel and wanted to say congratulations! I am a year behind you, having made the move last July. In fact, I moved 300 miles to a cheaper area (from Scotland) to a place that needed a bit of renovation. I am now attempting to knock the garden into shape, so I can have my own produce. Likewise, I have physical limitations (and on my own too), but just pace myself. It certainly seems you have done the right thing, so keep on doing your best and I shall enjoy watching your vlogs.
Oh how fantastic! Good on you, I'm so excited for you. Things may take a bit longer but you'll get there....and it will be so worth it. I hope you have a fantastic season with your garden......I will be keeping my fingers crossed for you and thinking of you. :-)
Vivvi you are AMAZING XXXXXXX
Thank you sweet, kind you! :-)
This is just a suggestion but would you do any videos on living 'frugally' and how you do this and your thoughts on consumerism etc ? X
Hmmm, there are a few scattered through the back 'catalogue' already......and, I suppose, all my videos reference it to some degree or other.... Saying that though maybe it's time I sat down and did another one purely about the subject when I'm not gardening or cooking for example. Thank you for sowing that seed in my mind. :-)
I love your ethos and your moral, positive attitude. You are truly an inspiration. I hope we all have a brilliant growing year and happy times with friends and veggies. X
Oh Sharon, thank you so much. :-)
Thanks for the video I am sure I have watched it before. Great makes one think and appreciate what we have rather than not have. Like you I wish I had started gardening seriously in my earlier years as I do not stop learning I enjoy it so much that I am not bothered with going on holiday I can't wait to be in my little paradise. Anything that takes me away from it is not appreciated but I have a sense of duty to attend to some demands. Can't imagine leaving my birds behind.
Ah, yes, life and duty sometimes get in the way.......I fantasize about being able to be in the garden every single day! ;-)
love your rambles great fun keep going Vivvi lolxx
Thank you Pat......while I've a breath I'll keep going. ;-)
I live in Derbyshire and I love Yorkshire and visit there quite often so if you do go there I will come and make you a cup of tea xx
Ooooh, that would be lovely! So long as it's peppermint tea and not Yorkshire tea. ;-)
I worked in a bank early on and I hated most of the 18 months, I need to be outside.
Ahhhh, there's nothing quite like being outside. I hope you get more time out there these days. :-)