Thank you! I can't think of a better way to start my new year off than watching and listening to you first thing today!! Total enjoyment Love ya Happy New Year 💓
I was in the same mindset as you regarding Azure Standard since we are just a 2 person household. But I recently saw a video by Carter at Grow and Preserve where she bought things from Azure and then priced them against Costco and such. She is also a 2 person household. She saved about $100 on what she would have bought anyway! It’s one of her most recent videos if you want to check it out. It was really helpful for me. 😊
Thank you Cassandra for sharing your journey with us. Your videos bring me great joy. Eventually I'll get up the nerve to start canning and fermenting!
❤Cassandra! I am tickled pink that you found my question worthy of a reply. I didn’t know how long into the future your dream would be. I, myself, have a future dream but “things” have to be done first. I am learning while I wait. Retirement is a good thing to be keeping in your future goals also. Stick with building your pension. You will be thankful you did. Also, my dad was in the Maine Army National Guard for 40 years of uninterrupted service. My mom would have to pray hard when he was called for an emergency. He also would be gone two weeks in the summer over my sister’s birthday as well as a weekend every month. When he approached 20 years my mom asked that he not sign up for another year. He promised that he wouldn’t. He signed up for 10 more after taking to us kids. Mom was livid. But he did another 10 beyond that. Daddy is gone now and his retirement from the military gives Momma more of an income than his civilian job. Also, because he put in 40 years of uninterrupted service, the Tricare for Life insurance still covers mom. Not so with 20 years. So I know that being a military wife is different. But because of what you do, your husband can do what he does. Thank you. ❤ Thank you for all you do.
I honesty love the fact that you homestead on a deck,and the bigger propety is still years away,there are almost no youtubers doing what you do and teaching us,some youtubers that i loved to see and still do,went to a big piece of land in no time,and as someone with a small backyard,you are someone i look up too,you convinced me to buy my first greenstalk this year,and i am looking into canning,i will be rooting for you that you will get your dream homestead.
I totally agree with you. I also live in a townhouse. I grow on my patio in grow bags and greenstalks. I am close to retirement, so I have no desire to buy land. The Greenstalks and grow bags are perfect for me. She is wonderful.
I respect the fact that you will be building your homestead slowly. So many young people jump in totally unprepared and fail. I have no doubt that you will be very successful when the time comes! You go girl!!!!!
I am so proud of what you do. I'm 77 years old and have preserved and canned all my life. You are so positive hopefully you can influence others . I have been at this so much longer and have my small homestead keep up your hopes it will come.
We’ve been married for 58 years this year and it’s been about 45 years that I have not worn a wedding ring. Sold my wedding rings back in the 70’s because I wasn’t wearing them and we needed the money for our young growing family but I have no grief over it as I’m more comfortable not wearing rings. I am exactly like you in that i have to have my dangling earrings on. I have purchased a lot of stoves (my thing) for prepping purposes and camping use and my husband will say "another stove?" and I’ll respond with "be glad I don’t like diamonds", lol!
You are the most encouraging UA-camr homesteader. You give grace and sincerity to those with doubts instead of showing off your knowledge. You are going to be a great mom. Your family and neighbors and us online neighbors are blessed.
Finding your channel has been a major blessing for my husband and I. Not only have I learned so many wonderful recipes from you, I have stopped wasting food. You put me on to those soup molds and now I'm able to feeze left overs and have them to pull out during the week when I just don't feel like cooking. Such a blessing! Thank you for all that you share with us. Happy New Year to you and your family. May it be filled with joy, laughter, great health, abundance and love.
Hello friend! Awww, I'm so happy to hear this. Food waste is something that can really add up to real money that is simply being thrown away. As prices continue to rise, it's an area of anyones budget to closely monitor. Muffin meals have been game changers for us and I am so happy that you are just as excited about that as I am. Happy New Year to you and your husband, sweet friend!
I’m 70 years old and will be downsizing to a town home. I am very encouraged in your ability to grow in a small space and preserve . I now have 3 green stalks and find I am able to grow many things and also have a indoor rise garden hydrophonics and can grow many things out of season
@@JanineMJoi it is a Rise brand hydrophonics I can grown up to 24 plants in it . I live in Florida we’re it is too hot to grow lettuce most of year so I grow most of my lettuce indoors and also some tomatoes and sweet peppers and now cucmbers
Thank you for always being so authentic. ❤ I want to tell you how much I enjoy observing your relationship with your parents. I lost my mom young and became alienated from my dad, so I live vicariously through you and it just warms my heart to see a father who is involved in his daughters life and so proud of you. Blessings to you and yours and praying for you on your fertility journey. Don’t give up hope. ❤
Truly the first field dressing of a deer was a learning experience, especially breaking the pelvic bone to get the organs removed. We laughed our butts off. Then we hung overnight in a garage, then quartered it and refrigerated it, so we could butcher it slowly. I no longer include the bones in my cuts. I felt like they added too much of a gamey flavor. But venison is so versatile, we love it. A grinder is very helpful to have.
Little mountain ranch uses an all American on glass. Having said that I don’t think the presto is just an “entry” level canner. There are basically two makers of canners and one of them has found itself as the aspirational one. Not sure if that happened because the canning /homestead community is guilty of the, if something costs a lot therefore it must be better mentality or if it’s just the “Made in America” that has allowed it to so tightly tethered to the homesteading community. What makes it better? That it costs a lot, it’s heavier, that it doesn’t have a rubber ring or that the most expensive one allows you to can a gazillion jars. IMO both canners produce the same end result. I have a presto canner that my grandma used in the 70’s which means it’s at least 50 years old. I mean if something can last that long is it really entry level. Comparison is the thief joy!
Ooh, you answered my question! I loved hearing that your dad had such a big role in how you developed your cooking style, it’s always fun when he shows up in your videos. Thanks for the jam tips, too. I’m absolutely going to have to start playing with some savory jams, since my husband loves growing hot peppers and I think he’d enjoy me finding some more ways to use them.
I love your channel. I canned some of your recipes (the cranberry sauce and the blueberry lemon sauce). Delish! I will pray for your future farm and for you to have healthy babies in your future.
Yasss hunty. These videos are giving. Seriously, thank you for giving and sharing of yourself and your approach to things. It's so inspiring. I am in the DMV area. Do you ever have meet and greets, sip and chats, walk and talks? I'd be happy to help organize something small. I love the idea of building a local homesteading / family nutritional care community.
Hi ! Loved this video and love love love your channel!!!❤️. I was born in Louisiana, moved to Baltimore and White Marsh , Maryland when I was 6 weeks old, and moved to Ohio when I was 12. I am now 70. I have a former 10 1/2 acre horse farm. Sadly, I no longer have animals or pets. I miss them, but I have physical limitations.This was my parents farm, so as long as I can cut the grass and deal with the leaves , I am staying here. I still get “teased” about my “Baltimorise” accent which I have never lost. I am trying to figure out how I can have a garden this year which I can handle. If I may suggest, when you finally get your homestead, don’t forget the limitations that come with aging. This way , you can enjoy your homestead forever!
I love that you are keeping the Ohio farm. I, too, am in Ohio and though the farming bug caught me, life happened and that had to be set aside. Still, I am fortunate to have a couple of raised beds and to decide what I can grow in them. I am in SW Ohio where the storms often skirt where I live, so a drought has become a reality for now. Thank you for sharing!
Hi Hon (as a former Baltimorean, I'm sure you'll appreciate that greeting). You brought up so many good points and yes, we absolutely want a home that we can age into. And, for that reason, we know that we neither need or want a big farm that we'd have to manage. Instead, we'd love to have a community where help can be found, that could accommodate maintaining a few raised beds, poultry and eggs as we age and the design feature of the home that we may need to remodel over the years. Blessings for a Happy New Year, sweet friend!
SAY IT AGAIN CAS!!! having the means of production to preserve fresh produce!!! AMEN!!! ❤ We over here are prepared for it to happen again. 💪 thank you for answering questions and always being on point with literally everything. God bless you 🙏 ❤️
Hi Sara! Always good to see you friend and yes, owning a canner, dehydrator, and knowing the skills of preservation gives you the means of production that so many kitchens don't have (thus becoming places of preparation as opposed to preparedness). So glad this resonates with you too :) Happy New Year to you and yours!
My husband and I are on the same page with the wedding rings hahaha. In fact, I've lost mine more times than I'd like to admit! This year for Christmas we finally bought each other a "safe band" type ring so neither of us ruin, lose or cut off our fingers due to wearing our real rings. And we're still more than happily married 20 years later ❤
Hi friend! I just did a quick look at your podcast! Goodness-I love your office set up (I'm listening to the episode about food security as I reply to comments). I once lost my set for several months and almost tossed it out in a clothes donation bag! After that I really knew that the grief of keeping up with this one piece of jewelry was going to drive me bonkers. Congrats on 20 years of marriage and Happy New Year to you and yours!
@@BecomingaFarmGirl awesome! Thanks for checking it out. We're still trying to get it going, but finding the time amongst all the things is so hard, as I'm sure you know! Love watching your channel, you're such a blessing to this community. God bless!
Happy New Year and Winter Break! I've learned so much and I think I found you right around Covid time. My goal is to can a project each day that remains of our break. I have a plan! :) Made apple pie from a batch I made 2 years ago and it was delish! When I can ahead it helps my teaching life when I come home exhausted to a hungry husband and me who needs a hearty, healthy meal that is ready to go. I call them MREs sometimes! Looking forward to your pantry chat next Saturday! Take care and I hope you have a great week.
I got you! I just canned the leftover ham and made bone broth from the ham bone. Delish. Too much to eat before it went “off” so now it’s safely preserved for the future. I hate food waste and the older I get, the more conscious I am of it. Times are tough, I love the security. Bright blessings to you and happy new year!
I love my All American 30 quart and my Presto 21 quart. But the build quality of my All American definitely outshines the Presto. Funny thing is I bought both used 😂. The Presto was $50 and I just had to buy new gaskets and a rack (the originally was missing). The All American was $150 and came with two racks. It's an older model from the '80s but still in great condition. The seller was the original owner who bought herself a smaller All American because she didn't need a large canner anymore. Do what you can with what you have and save for what you want 😉. Don't be afraid to look for those deals too.
When my food allergies forced me to change cooking styles, I was also forced to write things down so I could recreate the recipe for anything everyone enjoyed. There are some things I just dump in ingredients and know that the meal will turn out right. With baking, I follow a recipe but with sauces, I season by taste a lot of times.
I started wearing one of those silicon rings. I love it. My fingers are prone to swell when working with my hands, the silicon ring solved that problem. It also allows me to wear a ring in the garden, cleaning the house etc without being afraid of losing it or having to get it cleaned.
I found you this morning at about 5 a.m. while falling down the UA-cam rabbit hole and I am so happy! This old girl feels like she has found a kindred spirit. I have been trying to do all of the things that you are doing, but with limited success. Your videos are fun, informative and easy to follow. Thank you for being willing to share your life and knowledge with us. ❤
I love watching you. I live in the U.K. and even getting a garden or allotment is hard. I am in a block of flats/apartments and you’re the only realistic urban homesteader. Also don’t quote for UA-cam - it puts a lot of pressure on you to follow the algorithm rather than doing what you want.
I was watching you and looked at photo of my grandmother. She was cooking over a hundred n years ago. She adapted her recipes too. If she felt her chicken and dumplings didn’t look rich enough no problem she would ad a bit of turmeric to her broth. Thanks to I was gifted with green stalk for Christmas. thank you.
I loved your response on how you cook. You showed it is a lifetime adventure, lovingly shared with the important people in your life. There is no wrong way to be creative. Go with what you have and have fun.
With Jams and Jellies, I like to use them in deserts, such as cookies, cakes, milkshakes and Ice cream. It gives rice a unique breakfast touch with a little syrup and butter. Jams and Jellies are amazing on biscuits, and you can also use them on roasting or broiled meats or use them in marinades.
My mom used her Presto canner all the time for decades, she passed it on to me about 20 years ago and I have been using it every since. Never had a problem and as I am only 60 years old it will last through my lifetime.
A quick reference book would be amazing! I love watching you and you have inspired me to go on this journey too because I have thought about it a lot, but I lead a busy life with my job and you have shown me how simple it can be and all the ways I can be creative.
loved this video! love getting to know you a bit better. your channel is one of my favs! im always learning something from what feels like just hanging with a good friend
Happy New Year 🎉 I love this conversation you are having with us. You say things that remind me of myself. I've done the same thing between improvising ingredients I have with recipes from books that I love. I've had four children. I now have six grandchildren and I have been cooking since I can remember. My mother was never much on cooking My father a little bit more so same way making homemade raviolis rice pudding, sauces stuff like that. So thank you for your honesty and also for all the fantastic recipes that you have shared with us on your channel. God bless and here's 2024. ❤️🎉🎉🎉🙏
I have a glass top stove too with very little headroom between the stove top & microwave. Because of this I moved to using a commercial grade countertop burner and I use my pressure canner on that. It works perfectly on my kitchen island.
We are the SAME person. If we lived in the same place, we would defintely be friends. Love your content. The only HUGE difference between me and you is that you are married, I am not. Just know, you have a friend in California :)
Hi Kelly! Haha, don't you love it when you "meet" someone online and you're like, 'wait- you totally 'get' me'. A few years ago I went to San Diego (my first time to CA). Thanks for saying hello, new friend and Happy New Year!
Girl, I was born on a dairy farm and grew up in a very rural and poor area. I have continued to have a farm all my life. I lost my husband to cancer 10 years ago and it has become harder to hang on but my sons help me and I have taught them as best I could. As I enter my retirement years I now look forward to teaching my grandchildren. I would love to take you and your family on a tour of amish country here in Ohio, along with the bent and dent and bulk stores. It's about a 7 hour drive from me to DC. If you ever want a vacation that you'll never forget, let me know. I'd be most honored to be your hostess.
Hello friend! I'm so encouraged by your story and you are certainly a force to be reckoned with. Managing a farm after loosing a spouse presents considerable challenges. I too, would love to join you on a tour, if I ever make it to Ohio. I wish we had dent bulk stores in my area-what treasure and savings to have one close to you. Praying for you and yours and Happy New Year to you!
oh heck yeah..kids are a game changer. Hurry up with the kids though bc I was a late bloomer and almost missed the boat. When you want kids and you can't make any...that is a huge problem. Kids first, life ambitions later. That is my best advice. I thoroughly enjoyed this videa and I'm really glad that you decided to do it and also share your personal life with us. That is HUGE.
Hi Casandra, my apologies for not being active as much. But I have been recovering from 3 surgeries and a few health battles. However I pray that I will get back active here. Stay blessed and keep going if anyone can do this you can.🥰 Much love to you and your family.
Please don't feel pressured or hurried to find a farm. Select the area of your state where you would like to relocate. Research and network. You are good at that. If you see a piece of land speak to the owner if possible. Believe it or not people are sentimental and want to know their land will be taken care of. I am glad I did not give up my career and pension because I was able to retire early. My favorite thing you have thrifted was the KitchenAid attachments. What a score!! Shrimp and grits one of my favorite things and my Louisiana Dad make the best gumbo. You don't ever forget that wonderful taste. Enjoyed your video. Take care. Wishing you and your family a Blessed and Happy New Year 2024.
The only reason I have an All American 921, is because Amazon had it on sale for $179, in 2015. It’s great for full loads. I have a smaller electric Cary that I can use for up to 6 regular mouth pint jars. It can also be used as a pressure cooker, that will accommodate a large turkey carcass. I pressure cook my turkey stock, wash it out, then use it to pressure can the stock. $89, a few years ago. I’m set ❤
Hey Wendy! Always good to see you and WHOA--what an incredible sale on the All American, I would've pulled the trigger on that deal too! The best canner is the one that you can afford and that you regularly use. I love my Presto canners (I have two of them) and IF I can thrift one at a good price, yes-I'll get one, but if not, I'm very satisfied with what I already have. Happy New Year to you and yours!
Rifle paper has a meal planner and grocery list pad. I use it to keep track of ingredients I need or want to cook with, what’s ready to eat, and what I need to make. I also cook for my dogs and use some of my leftovers there
I learned that I have to very strategic about fresh produce to minimize waste but never have an issue with pantry or freezer items. Azure standard has been a blessing for me because I’m dairy free and gluten free which buying some specific foods in bulk is better priced. The number one for me is shelf stable soy milk, I’ve tried making at home and it’s not the same. It’s 30% less buying a case of soy milk vs my local grocery store.
You are one of my favorite UA-camrs because your beauty just shines. I LOVE that you’re whole thing is that your doing homesteading in a small space and allowing the time to build your dreams. Keep going the way you are because you are an inspiration to those of us who aren’t able to buy the land to homestead yet either! I am always learning from you and your videos. Thank you for just sharing your small steps to the big goals ❤
I took my wedding band off when I begain working in a machine shop. Too many opportunities to rip off my finger. After that for some reason my finger got too big for it. At the same time, my wife's ring got too small for her finger so she is now wearing mine. The band that I wear from her is around my heart. It's been there for over 51 years.
Thank you for your experiences and advice. I am really trying to spend time-saving but eating at home. I love cooking to help me enjoy the spread of food. I have a small space also but knowing it's possible is awesome!
I have been married for 16 years, and I go through seasons with my rings. I work a lot of hands-on jobs that would be dangerous for me to wear my rings. So I prefer to keep them in a safe spot. And I enjoy them in my off time. Your rings are gorgeous, by the way! ❤ Honestly, my husband could have given me a ring pop, and I would have said yes! Lol
Hi Erin! Exactly-I prefer to keep my rings in a safe spot, and on the occasion that my husband has a special work event (like the Navy Ball) or we’re out of town, yes, it feels nice to catch of glimpse of them on my hand. But the other 99.9% of the time, it’s my “dress up” jewelry” 🥰 Congrats on 16 years of marriage! Have a Happy New Year!
I've lost my original wedding ring...and the 2 subsequent replacements. My weight went up and down and my fingers seemed to slim down first. Once we were arguing and I was being expressive with my hands and the ring flew off and blinked out of existence.
A farmer’s daughter here. Just so you know you make me proud of all your accomplishments. I’d say you have the skills, we don’t know everything we learn what are parents do, cattle, or chickens ect, and yes a little knowledge of alot of things. A wise person said if you’re not learning you could be dead.😃
I love your videos! I also agree with you about the wedding ring, I've been married for 37+ yrs. & I don't wear my rings for the same reason that they get on my way of household chores, specially cooking & gardening. 😊
Hello friend! Whew, so glad to hear this. I don't live a life where I need to wear anything expensive, and goodness, my hands are valuable tools always in motion :) Other than my simple routine (work, grocery store, thrifting) I'm at home or with my husband. Happy New Year!
Hi Cassandra! Only a few minutes in, but I wanted to say, how special your bond is with your dad. I get it. Your buddies. My dad and I were that way too. We didn’t cook together but we figured out everything in the garden together. We have a 1/4 acre but about the back 1/4 of that is garden, chickens and flowerbeds. Our joke was we could build anything with a staple gun, duct tape and chicken fencing lol. It’s can be very special, the bond between father and daughter. I cherished it till we lost him 4 years ago. But the memories live on. We were buddies and partners in crime. Now I’ll go back and watch the rest lol.
This is so beautiful to hear, especially from a fellow daddy's girl. One day I'll be in your place and even now I think about all the excellent memories I'll have, pictures, projects, skills, and stories to steward and pass along. You are right, a daddy-daughter relationship feels like he's your partner in crime. Thank you for sharing this sweet memory of your father, what a special man!
He was. And I often think his best quality was how hard he loved us. My parents took me and my 3 children in in 2007 from an abusive home life. He was 61 at the time and pledged to look after us. I had been running our own little garden centre but had to leave that. I took on housecleaning jobs and learned to budget fast. He was our rock. My 3 children still often reminisce about our time together. He was a loving male figure for my daughter. 2 peas in a pod lol. My sons are now 26 and 23 and both have become truckers because the example my dad gave. He was a trucker for life. They model they’re being a dad to his example. He was a humble man. Worked hard, saved hard and didn’t have a jealous bone in his body. He would be stunned at how we all remember him. Sorry to ramble on. It’s like we could be friends and talk for hours about life. I’m 52 so pretty close to the right age 😀 Take care, sweet girl
While watching this video, I had the ah-ha moment of exactly why I love your channel. It’s because homesteading is a mindset, not a location. I grew up rural and my grandparents each had small homesteads….truck patches (still have no idea why the gardens were called that 😂), chickens, a cow or two. After 34 years, my husband and I finally returned to 2.5 acres and are VERY slowly renovating our new country house and building a garden. We are blessed to be surrounded by two 100 acre properties owned by lovely neighbors. I feel like I’ve finally come home. I’m learning to can, grow, plan a more independent, quiet life. It was worth the wait. So keep building your dreams…your homestead is already active and growing. It’s a lifestyle, not a location.
That is just how I organize my refrigerator. For me I have a family of 4. Two growing boys about to reach Teenager and myself and Daddy. So my boys love stir fry and meats so my fridge just has vegetables and meats. And my kimchi, my mayo and some salad dressings and some milk. And that's about it. We used to stockpile too and it was a mess...we tossed away so much food, at least 50%. We live within 3 blocks of an Asian Grocery store. We could literally just go buy whatever we want within the HOUR. So I stopped stocking the fridge and we saved so much money. And everything is fresh. No leftovers in my family. No sweet and no junk food at all bc everybody gained too much weight during Quarantine. Every family has to have a plan for daily, weekly and long-term. So it really depends on what your family likes to eat. When I garden, my grocery bill will be even less...just buy some meat and we eat a lot of chicken and that's it.
Thanks for always being so genuine! I've been following you for a couple of years now and always so impressed with your attitude. Its inspiring! I'm in my mid 50's, now single and my girls are grown and living their own lives. I've always wanted a little hobby farm and to be honest was thinking that time may be gone, but I really like "the do with what you have" attitude you have and its got me looking around my townhouse thinking hmmm!! I do some food preservation through fermentation and freezing. I enjoy a small garden and planning on a Greenstalk or two!! I've just bought a canner. Never used one before but this will be the year! Been watching you and others and its time for me to learn. I like the small batch idea and think it would really work for me. I also thrift and buy out of season non food items and always bought my kids new coats/snowsuits etc (live in Ontario, Canada) at the end of the season for the following year. Its a great way to get quality items at a substantial discount. Went on a ramble here but I really enjoy your content and you have inspired me to think outside the box. Thank you! 😊
We are retired military, it’s been 11 years since we retired. We have owned 7 acres and now our final homestead of 25 acres. Our widowed moms have cottages on our property. Our three 20 something children live on this property for now too! You have time sister! I only started day dreaming 3years prior to that retirement. We grow our own meat, garden, and all the things (I have two!!! Dairy cows) the dream is worth it- the journey is so very worthwhile. We are still just one income. Prayers for the land market to get better by the time you are looking. ❤ prayers for your future family to grow is you hope.
I am an old lady now and at a very young age had a hand/wrist injury. I've had several surgeries and I'm not gonna have any more on it. The presto single layer canner I purchased so I can handle it. I LOVE IT. I have plenty canned. My husband loves helping me. He gets more excited than me. Especially since he knows he can have deer meat canned. Dad is the one that talked me into canning. Love your channel. Blessings to you and all of yours.❤
I so appreciate your sharing your experiences and all the energy it takes to make your UA-cam channel come to life and provide the excellent education, balance, and motivation that it DOES for me. You are making such a positive difference in my life and I'm sure many others as well.
Rings do not mean anything, so many people are programmed to believe that just because you wear a ring your marriage is going to last forever. Rings are material things, the love you have with your partner is much more than that. Rings are not to be shown off anyway, its a sign of ownership and whether you're in an obligation or not, no one owns anybody. hoped this helped for anyone that is focused on rings which is the wrong thing to focus on. Love your videos and that never even crossed my mind. I am so thankful I am not programmed anymore to the things that are not of importance anymore. Yes, for anyone who is wondering I am very happily obligated. :)
You are not alone, I am in Maryland as well. I work full time outside of the home and I have 3 kids. I can, dehydrate, garden, cook, meal prep, bake and all the rest. I grow what I can but it is work!
A great video. I do love your energy and how you get excited over things. I know it is hard being a military spouse. My ex retired out of the military - we were together for 30 years. It really forced me to grow up alot esp when he went off to the Gulf War. We had 3 kids and I did not even drive, which made me get my driver's license. I pretty much would stay at home - was a stay-at-home mom to close to 15 years. One of my favorite places was a 3 acre mini farm were we had a garden, berries, chickens raised a couple of pigs for meat, a bull for meat, a pregnant cow, then we got stationed elsewhere. We had a wonderful neighbor who treated us just like family. The lady was a German lady who taught me about pruning, gave me tips on canning and freezing, etc. I got to the point that I was afraid to make friends due to the moves. We averaged a move every 2 years. I now live on 10 acres with chickens. The property belongs to a cousin. I invested into 2 greenstalks last year, which I love. I planted herbs into them. I am thinking I need a couple more - so much easier to maintain. This year, I have to rethink the fencing around the gardens. The deer discovered they could jump them. For years we grew potatoes in an open area with no problem, but these deers dicovered they like them as well. A couple of years ago, my cousin got a deer and we decided to can some. It was really good. We also made our own sausage and vension bologna.
The question about your dog Thor was my favorite part of the video and also do you style your hair yourself? And also can you make a video on homemade dog food and dog treats please? Have a Happy New Years to you and your family and your friends God-bless you all ❤🎉
Everyone has to do as they feel comfortable, but I've used the 15.5 All American canner on my glass top range -- it's not a big one, but not that small either. And thankfully, I've not had any problems. Small batch canning, yes.
I have a set of silicone rings that I wear when doing martial arts, so that I don't hurt others when sparring or grappling. It's kind of fun having different colors to choose from.
That’s such a smart idea and totally what we should have done in the first place. I’m so not into “fancy” jewelry of any kind. It was paid off at purchase but goodness, I’m just not a diamond gal😜 Happy New Year to you!
I love your slow-and-steady-wins-the-race approach to homesteading! We tend to want everything NOW! That's unrealistic and unhealthy. I could really see you doing a book or somehow compiling all your resources for a seasonal kitchen. You are so good at shopping seasonally and using or preserving what you buy and grow in creative ways seasonally. I really appreciate your help with that! Our culture has grown out of that traditional way of living in many ways.
Happy New Year! You inspire me Cassandra! I have a condo but am a farm girl at heart. Thank you for your wonderful information and inspiration! Thor is adorable!
You're such a wealth of information and inspiration, and you never fail to make me feel like things that have always felt so far out of reach/outside of my abilities ARE possible with time and effort. I love your personality and I'm wishing a prosperous 2024 for you! xx
I love what you do and are so happy you share your journey. I am a single 67-year old and thought similarly during COVID lockdown. I bought a small freezer and got to work. I've ripped out most of my lawn and planted natives, nothing edible for me but the birds and bees are happy and I know I am doing my part for farmers! No chemicals here, I bend and pick weeds as needed. I plan to start a couple of small raised beds in the next couple of months. I am in a 10a so we shall see what I can do with the veggies. We all need to think about sourcing our own food for lots of reasons.
Cassandra love your channel! You have inspired me to preserve in more ways than I even knew about! Wedding rings... Lol my hubs worked in concrete and when we got married he had a dress ring ( channel set diamonds) and he had a work ring cheap white gold that he wore daily. On Friday nights he would switch out and always made sure that he wore the dress ring to church.Meant the world that he loved our rings that much, he in return would let me take off my rings to garden paint and do work in the kitchen. So it's very common for couples to be more committed to the vows than a piece of jewelry! Glad you and the hubs "do you" 😉 Us farm girls take care of what we have on all levels! ❤
I love that you learning the skills that everyone used to know and sharing them with us. I decided some years ago that I would learn to make soap for myself. I felt like it was a lost art.
I’m the first woman on my mom’s side to stay at home and cook/preserve in 4 generations, great-great Gma Irene, and even after being married and homesteading for 20 years I’m still learning!! Thanks for your videos. ❤
We had a min-pin named Thor. His full name was Thor-nado. He was a whirl wind of activity and great hunter. Loved that dog so much. He lived to be 14 years old. Thanks for another great video. Happy 2024 to you and yours.
When I got married I specifically asked for a very simple, smooth gold band to serve as both engagement & wedding ring for that reason... the thought of food / dirt etc getting caught up in the crevices of a traditional wedding ring made me nauseous haha. I would lose my ring immediately if I had to remove it all the time to cook etc, since it's simple I can just wash it when I wash my hands and feel confident it's clean enough for handling food.
A Becoming A Farm Girl Guide. It would be all encompasing on where you started to present day. It doesn't have to be just a cookbook. You are so positive and encouraging. Thank you for this Video.
Ah, Cassandra… you are such a blessing and encouragement. Praying The Father’s continued peace and blessings over your life as you strive to live your life for Him.
I don’t wear my wedding ring very much either. Gardening, cooking, making bread from scratch all the time makes it impractical for me. Same reason I don’t polish my nails lol!
Happy New Year, Cassandra! I appreciate your energy and outlook. You inspire and uplift me, and I always come away with a helpful idea. Blessings to you and your loved ones in 2024!
I just found your channel this week. I love your friendly upbeat personality. I have been a homesteader for years raising our own veggies and meat. But I am expanding what I do. I used to freeze everything, but now I am entering into a season where I am canning and dehydrating. I love your tips.
I was in the same predicament ring wise and I just ran down to Walmart and bought the cheapest gold band they had- I think I paid $43 for it 😅. I could wear a ring, the good stuff was at home in the safe not getting trashed and everybody was happy lol.
I agree I love my presto canners. I too am now using a glass top. Maybe after i win the lotto and get a huge kitchen I may get one but for now i am successful with my 2 prestos.
Thank you Cassandra all your videos. I love cook and always has been. I have been cooking since the age of 10. So your difference dishes you make. Make me love it more. The butternut squash who would have thought and I didn't know you could eat the whole squash the skin and all. I love it! Thank you so much!
Your slow-cooker story for getting a homestead has been a massive encouragement to your fellow urban-farmers, like me! I so appreciate your excellent storytelling and am so invested in where God takes you on this lovely journey. I am also totally with you on the concept of community sufficiency, which I practiced recently by learning to pressure can alongside my sister-in-law. Keep up the good work Cassandra, you're doing good things! :)
I was so excited to dibs your channel. I am a farmgirl trapped in the suburbs. Your channel has reminded me of how I grew up and the things Momma and Granny taught me (they lived through the depression) and how much I love canning and gardening even though I have to work full-time. Thank you!
I am addicted to your Grape Nuts. This is quite the task living in Mexico on a sailboat and using a toaster oven to save trips to the stations to fill up the propane tanks that fuel the galley oven. Thank you.
Hi Friends! I enjoyed answering these questions and will share other topics in my annual goals video. January’s pantry chat will post next Saturday! 😊
Thank you!
I can't think of a better way to start my new year off than watching and listening to you first thing today!!
Total enjoyment
Love ya
Happy New Year 💓
I was in the same mindset as you regarding Azure Standard since we are just a 2 person household. But I recently saw a video by Carter at Grow and Preserve where she bought things from Azure and then priced them against Costco and such. She is also a 2 person household. She saved about $100 on what she would have bought anyway! It’s one of her most recent videos if you want to check it out. It was really helpful for me. 😊
@@auntrowdy
Thanks for this
It's really good to know!
We are elderly and we have been on the fence as well.
Thank you Cassandra for sharing your journey with us. Your videos bring me great joy. Eventually I'll get up the nerve to start canning and fermenting!
❤Cassandra! I am tickled pink that you found my question worthy of a reply. I didn’t know how long into the future your dream would be. I, myself, have a future dream but “things” have to be done first. I am learning while I wait.
Retirement is a good thing to be keeping in your future goals also. Stick with building your pension. You will be thankful you did. Also, my dad was in the Maine Army National Guard for 40 years of uninterrupted service. My mom would have to pray hard when he was called for an emergency. He also would be gone two weeks in the summer over my sister’s birthday as well as a weekend every month. When he approached 20 years my mom asked that he not sign up for another year. He promised that he wouldn’t. He signed up for 10 more after taking to us kids. Mom was livid. But he did another 10 beyond that. Daddy is gone now and his retirement from the military gives Momma more of an income than his civilian job. Also, because he put in 40 years of uninterrupted service, the Tricare for Life insurance still covers mom. Not so with 20 years. So I know that being a military wife is different. But because of what you do, your husband can do what he does. Thank you. ❤
Thank you for all you do.
I honesty love the fact that you homestead on a deck,and the bigger propety is still years away,there are almost no youtubers doing what you do and teaching us,some youtubers that i loved to see and still do,went to a big piece of land in no time,and as someone with a small backyard,you are someone i look up too,you convinced me to buy my first greenstalk this year,and i am looking into canning,i will be rooting for you that you will get your dream homestead.
I totally agree with you. I also live in a townhouse. I grow on my patio in grow bags and greenstalks. I am close to retirement, so I have no desire to buy land. The Greenstalks and grow bags are perfect for me. She is wonderful.
Even just answering questions, Cassandra, you are seriously the sweetest woman ever❤️
I respect the fact that you will be building your homestead slowly. So many young people jump in totally unprepared and fail. I have no doubt that you will be very successful when the time comes! You go girl!!!!!
I am so proud of what you do. I'm 77 years old and have preserved and canned all my life. You are so positive hopefully you can influence others . I have been at this so much longer and have my small homestead keep up your hopes it will come.
We’ve been married for 58 years this year and it’s been about 45 years that I have not worn a wedding ring. Sold my wedding rings back in the 70’s because I wasn’t wearing them and we needed the money for our young growing family but I have no grief over it as I’m more comfortable not wearing rings.
I am exactly like you in that i have to have my dangling earrings on. I have purchased a lot of stoves (my thing) for prepping purposes and camping use and my husband will say "another stove?" and I’ll respond with "be glad I don’t like diamonds", lol!
You are the most encouraging UA-camr homesteader. You give grace and sincerity to those with doubts instead of showing off your knowledge. You are going to be a great mom. Your family and neighbors and us online neighbors are blessed.
Finding your channel has been a major blessing for my husband and I. Not only have I learned so many wonderful recipes from you, I have stopped wasting food. You put me on to those soup molds and now I'm able to feeze left overs and have them to pull out during the week when I just don't feel like cooking. Such a blessing! Thank you for all that you share with us. Happy New Year to you and your family. May it be filled with joy, laughter, great health, abundance and love.
Hello friend! Awww, I'm so happy to hear this. Food waste is something that can really add up to real money that is simply being thrown away. As prices continue to rise, it's an area of anyones budget to closely monitor. Muffin meals have been game changers for us and I am so happy that you are just as excited about that as I am. Happy New Year to you and your husband, sweet friend!
I’m 70 years old and will be downsizing to a town home. I am very encouraged in your ability to grow in a small space and preserve . I now have 3 green stalks and find I am able to grow many things and also have a indoor rise garden hydrophonics and can grow many things out of season
Do tell us about the indoor garden!
@@JanineMJoi it is a Rise brand hydrophonics I can grown up to 24 plants in it . I live in Florida we’re it is too hot to grow lettuce most of year so I grow most of my lettuce indoors and also some tomatoes and sweet peppers and now cucmbers
@marilynearl6887 I'm in Virginia where it's too hot to grow as well. Used to be Phoenix, where I had a gorgeous garden. VA, no
@@JanineMJoiin VA too and the heat is so bad - we can’t even sit on the deck just too hot
Thank you for always being so authentic. ❤ I want to tell you how much I enjoy observing your relationship with your parents. I lost my mom young and became alienated from my dad, so I live vicariously through you and it just warms my heart to see a father who is involved in his daughters life and so proud of you. Blessings to you and yours and praying for you on your fertility journey. Don’t give up hope. ❤
Truly the first field dressing of a deer was a learning experience, especially breaking the pelvic bone to get the organs removed. We laughed our butts off. Then we hung overnight in a garage, then quartered it and refrigerated it, so we could butcher it slowly. I no longer include the bones in my cuts. I felt like they added too much of a gamey flavor. But venison is so versatile, we love it. A grinder is very helpful to have.
You have such a beautiful spirit in you! And wow the joy you have is amazing. Love you and your channel! Happy New Year! 🎆🎈
Happy new year!!
Little mountain ranch uses an all American on glass. Having said that I don’t think the presto is just an “entry” level canner. There are basically two makers of canners and one of them has found itself as the aspirational one. Not sure if that happened because the canning /homestead community is guilty of the, if something costs a lot therefore it must be better mentality or if it’s just the “Made in America” that has allowed it to so tightly tethered to the homesteading community.
What makes it better? That it costs a lot, it’s heavier, that it doesn’t have a rubber ring or that the most expensive one allows you to can a gazillion jars. IMO both canners produce the same end result. I have a presto canner that my grandma used in the 70’s which means it’s at least 50 years old. I mean if something can last that long is it really entry level.
Comparison is the thief joy!
I read some where that when using thrifted cookbooks consider the messiest pages as they likely are the best recipes.
😮that’s brilliant!
Oh I absolutely agree with this! :) So true when you phrase it that way!
Ooh, you answered my question! I loved hearing that your dad had such a big role in how you developed your cooking style, it’s always fun when he shows up in your videos. Thanks for the jam tips, too. I’m absolutely going to have to start playing with some savory jams, since my husband loves growing hot peppers and I think he’d enjoy me finding some more ways to use them.
Mom made refrigerator soup. Every Saturday, she cleaned out the fridge and let it simmer while she cleaned the kitchen.
I love your channel. I canned some of your recipes (the cranberry sauce and the blueberry lemon sauce). Delish! I will pray for your future farm and for you to have healthy babies in your future.
Yasss hunty. These videos are giving. Seriously, thank you for giving and sharing of yourself and your approach to things. It's so inspiring. I am in the DMV area. Do you ever have meet and greets, sip and chats, walk and talks? I'd be happy to help organize something small. I love the idea of building a local homesteading / family nutritional care community.
Hi ! Loved this video and love love love your channel!!!❤️. I was born in Louisiana, moved to Baltimore and White Marsh , Maryland when I was 6 weeks old, and moved to Ohio when I was 12. I am now 70. I have a former 10 1/2 acre horse farm. Sadly, I no longer have animals or pets. I miss them, but I have physical limitations.This was my parents farm, so as long as I can cut the grass and deal with the leaves , I am staying here. I still get “teased” about my “Baltimorise” accent which I have never lost. I am trying to figure out how I can have a garden this year which I can handle. If I may suggest, when you finally get your homestead, don’t forget the limitations that come with aging. This way , you can enjoy your homestead forever!
I love that you are keeping the Ohio farm. I, too, am in Ohio and though the farming bug caught me, life happened and that had to be set aside. Still, I am fortunate to have a couple of raised beds and to decide what I can grow in them. I am in SW Ohio where the storms often skirt where I live, so a drought has become a reality for now. Thank you for sharing!
Hi Hon (as a former Baltimorean, I'm sure you'll appreciate that greeting). You brought up so many good points and yes, we absolutely want a home that we can age into. And, for that reason, we know that we neither need or want a big farm that we'd have to manage. Instead, we'd love to have a community where help can be found, that could accommodate maintaining a few raised beds, poultry and eggs as we age and the design feature of the home that we may need to remodel over the years. Blessings for a Happy New Year, sweet friend!
SAY IT AGAIN CAS!!! having the means of production to preserve fresh produce!!! AMEN!!! ❤ We over here are prepared for it to happen again. 💪 thank you for answering questions and always being on point with literally everything. God bless you 🙏 ❤️
Hi Sara! Always good to see you friend and yes, owning a canner, dehydrator, and knowing the skills of preservation gives you the means of production that so many kitchens don't have (thus becoming places of preparation as opposed to preparedness). So glad this resonates with you too :) Happy New Year to you and yours!
My husband and I are on the same page with the wedding rings hahaha. In fact, I've lost mine more times than I'd like to admit! This year for Christmas we finally bought each other a "safe band" type ring so neither of us ruin, lose or cut off our fingers due to wearing our real rings. And we're still more than happily married 20 years later ❤
Hi friend! I just did a quick look at your podcast! Goodness-I love your office set up (I'm listening to the episode about food security as I reply to comments). I once lost my set for several months and almost tossed it out in a clothes donation bag! After that I really knew that the grief of keeping up with this one piece of jewelry was going to drive me bonkers. Congrats on 20 years of marriage and Happy New Year to you and yours!
We got tattoos on our ring fingers last year on our anniversary. After 16 years, it's become clear I can't do jewelry! Lol
@@BecomingaFarmGirl awesome! Thanks for checking it out. We're still trying to get it going, but finding the time amongst all the things is so hard, as I'm sure you know! Love watching your channel, you're such a blessing to this community. God bless!
Happy New Year and Winter Break! I've learned so much and I think I found you right around Covid time. My goal is to can a project each day that remains of our break. I have a plan! :) Made apple pie from a batch I made 2 years ago and it was delish! When I can ahead it helps my teaching life when I come home exhausted to a hungry husband and me who needs a hearty, healthy meal that is ready to go. I call them MREs sometimes! Looking forward to your pantry chat next Saturday! Take care and I hope you have a great week.
I got you! I just canned the leftover ham and made bone broth from the ham bone. Delish. Too much to eat before it went “off” so now it’s safely preserved for the future. I hate food waste and the older I get, the more conscious I am of it. Times are tough, I love the security. Bright blessings to you and happy new year!
I just love you so much, Cassandra. Thank you so much for sharing YOU n all your goodness.
Xoxoxo
I love my All American 30 quart and my Presto 21 quart. But the build quality of my All American definitely outshines the Presto.
Funny thing is I bought both used 😂. The Presto was $50 and I just had to buy new gaskets and a rack (the originally was missing).
The All American was $150 and came with two racks. It's an older model from the '80s but still in great condition. The seller was the original owner who bought herself a smaller All American because she didn't need a large canner anymore.
Do what you can with what you have and save for what you want 😉. Don't be afraid to look for those deals too.
When my food allergies forced me to change cooking styles, I was also forced to write things down so I could recreate the recipe for anything everyone enjoyed. There are some things I just dump in ingredients and know that the meal will turn out right. With baking, I follow a recipe but with sauces, I season by taste a lot of times.
I started wearing one of those silicon rings. I love it. My fingers are prone to swell when working with my hands, the silicon ring solved that problem. It also allows me to wear a ring in the garden, cleaning the house etc without being afraid of losing it or having to get it cleaned.
You and I are of the same mind! I have seen those silicon rings. Thanks for bringing that back to my remembrance! Happy New Year to you! 🎉🥳
I found you this morning at about 5 a.m. while falling down the UA-cam rabbit hole and I am so happy! This old girl feels like she has found a kindred spirit. I have been trying to do all of the things that you are doing, but with limited success. Your videos are fun, informative and easy to follow. Thank you for being willing to share your life and knowledge with us. ❤
Sistah you been my inspiration to continue farming, and now my pumpkins and watermelons are beatiful ❤❤❤❤
I’m happy to hear I’ve play some part in pursuing your farm dream. I’m so proud of YOU for taking action. Happy New Year to you and yours!
I love watching you. I live in the U.K. and even getting a garden or allotment is hard. I am in a block of flats/apartments and you’re the only realistic urban homesteader.
Also don’t quote for UA-cam - it puts a lot of pressure on you to follow the algorithm rather than doing what you want.
I was watching you and looked at photo of my grandmother. She was cooking over a hundred n years ago. She adapted her recipes too. If she felt her chicken and dumplings didn’t look rich enough no problem she would ad a bit of turmeric to her broth. Thanks to I was gifted with green stalk for Christmas. thank you.
I loved your response on how you cook. You showed it is a lifetime adventure, lovingly shared with the important people in your life. There is no wrong way to be creative. Go with what you have and have fun.
With Jams and Jellies, I like to use them in deserts, such as cookies, cakes, milkshakes and Ice cream. It gives rice a unique breakfast touch with a little syrup and butter. Jams and Jellies are amazing on biscuits, and you can also use them on roasting or broiled meats or use them in marinades.
Love your pantry chats! I also like to thrift! Its like a treasure hunt!
My mom used her Presto canner all the time for decades, she passed it on to me about 20 years ago and I have been using it every since. Never had a problem and as I am only 60 years old it will last through my lifetime.
Let’s give Cassandra a like for doing her dream her way ❤
Cassandra, you are a gift from God. Happy 2024!
As as you, sweet friend! Happy New Year to you and yours as well!
Your dog is so precious i just loved his face while you were holding him ❤
Thor is such a mama's poor! He's my "perpetual baby" and loves being held and rocked. Thanks for showing him some love! Happy New Year, sweet friend!
You are so inspirational🥰
Aww, honey I’m humbled you feel so and I’m certain you are too! Happy New Year!
A quick reference book would be amazing! I love watching you and you have inspired me to go on this journey too because I have thought about it a lot, but I lead a busy life with my job and you have shown me how simple it can be and all the ways I can be creative.
loved this video! love getting to know you a bit better. your channel is one of my favs! im always learning something from what feels like just hanging with a good friend
Happy New Year 🎉 I love this conversation you are having with us. You say things that remind me of myself. I've done the same thing between improvising ingredients I have with recipes from books that I love. I've had four children. I now have six grandchildren and I have been cooking since I can remember. My mother was never much on cooking My father a little bit more so same way making homemade raviolis rice pudding, sauces stuff like that. So thank you for your honesty and also for all the fantastic recipes that you have shared with us on your channel. God bless and here's 2024. ❤️🎉🎉🎉🙏
I thrifted a cast iron stove top griddle today for $12 with 20% off. Made my day a bit better.
I have a glass top stove too with very little headroom between the stove top & microwave. Because of this I moved to using a commercial grade countertop burner and I use my pressure canner on that. It works perfectly on my kitchen island.
We are the SAME person. If we lived in the same place, we would defintely be friends. Love your content. The only HUGE difference between me and you is that you are married, I am not. Just know, you have a friend in California :)
Hi Kelly! Haha, don't you love it when you "meet" someone online and you're like, 'wait- you totally 'get' me'. A few years ago I went to San Diego (my first time to CA). Thanks for saying hello, new friend and Happy New Year!
Girl, I was born on a dairy farm and grew up in a very rural and poor area. I have continued to have a farm all my life. I lost my husband to cancer 10 years ago and it has become harder to hang on but my sons help me and I have taught them as best I could. As I enter my retirement years I now look forward to teaching my grandchildren. I would love to take you and your family on a tour of amish country here in Ohio, along with the bent and dent and bulk stores. It's about a 7 hour drive from me to DC. If you ever want a vacation that you'll never forget, let me know. I'd be most honored to be your hostess.
Hello friend! I'm so encouraged by your story and you are certainly a force to be reckoned with. Managing a farm after loosing a spouse presents considerable challenges. I too, would love to join you on a tour, if I ever make it to Ohio. I wish we had dent bulk stores in my area-what treasure and savings to have one close to you. Praying for you and yours and Happy New Year to you!
oh heck yeah..kids are a game changer. Hurry up with the kids though bc I was a late bloomer and almost missed the boat. When you want kids and you can't make any...that is a huge problem. Kids first, life ambitions later. That is my best advice. I thoroughly enjoyed this videa and I'm really glad that you decided to do it and also share your personal life with us. That is HUGE.
Hi Casandra, my apologies for not being active as much. But I have been recovering from 3 surgeries and a few health battles. However I pray that I will get back active here. Stay blessed and keep going if anyone can do this you can.🥰 Much love to you and your family.
Please don't feel pressured or hurried to find a farm. Select the area of your state where you would like to relocate. Research and network. You are good at that. If you see a piece of land speak to the owner if possible. Believe it or not people are sentimental and want to know their land will be taken care of. I am glad I did not give up my career and pension because I was able to retire early. My favorite thing you have thrifted was the KitchenAid attachments. What a score!!
Shrimp and grits one of my favorite things and my Louisiana Dad make the best gumbo. You don't ever forget that wonderful taste. Enjoyed your video. Take care. Wishing you and your family a Blessed and Happy New Year 2024.
The only reason I have an All American 921, is because Amazon had it on sale for $179, in 2015. It’s great for full loads. I have a smaller electric Cary that I can use for up to 6 regular mouth pint jars. It can also be used as a pressure cooker, that will accommodate a large turkey carcass. I pressure cook my turkey stock, wash it out, then use it to pressure can the stock. $89, a few years ago. I’m set ❤
Hey Wendy! Always good to see you and WHOA--what an incredible sale on the All American, I would've pulled the trigger on that deal too! The best canner is the one that you can afford and that you regularly use. I love my Presto canners (I have two of them) and IF I can thrift one at a good price, yes-I'll get one, but if not, I'm very satisfied with what I already have. Happy New Year to you and yours!
Yes indeed heritage skills!! We are the few still keeping it up.
Rifle paper has a meal planner and grocery list pad. I use it to keep track of ingredients I need or want to cook with, what’s ready to eat, and what I need to make. I also cook for my dogs and use some of my leftovers there
Heyy Cass❤Happy New Year! Thanks for the chat🎉You are such an inspiration!
You crack me up. You're so organized I could take lessons from you.
I learned that I have to very strategic about fresh produce to minimize waste but never have an issue with pantry or freezer items. Azure standard has been a blessing for me because I’m dairy free and gluten free which buying some specific foods in bulk is better priced. The number one for me is shelf stable soy milk, I’ve tried making at home and it’s not the same. It’s 30% less buying a case of soy milk vs my local grocery store.
My creative quiche just came out of the oven, so now i get to spend an hour with you. What a great way to start a year.
You are one of my favorite UA-camrs because your beauty just shines. I LOVE that you’re whole thing is that your doing homesteading in a small space and allowing the time to build your dreams. Keep going the way you are because you are an inspiration to those of us who aren’t able to buy the land to homestead yet either! I am always learning from you and your videos. Thank you for just sharing your small steps to the big goals ❤
I took my wedding band off when I begain working in a machine shop. Too many opportunities to rip off my finger. After that for some reason my finger got too big for it. At the same time, my wife's ring got too small for her finger so she is now wearing mine. The band that I wear from her is around my heart. It's been there for over 51 years.
🥰. That’s so sweet. Bright blessings to you both. Happy New Year!
@@firequeen2194 🤗 Thank you and the same to you as well.
Thank you for your experiences and advice. I am really trying to spend time-saving but eating at home. I love cooking to help me enjoy the spread of food. I have a small space also but knowing it's possible is awesome!
I also like that you are a family of two. We are empty nesters. It can be a challenge to make the downsized recipe change!
I have been married for 16 years, and I go through seasons with my rings. I work a lot of hands-on jobs that would be dangerous for me to wear my rings. So I prefer to keep them in a safe spot. And I enjoy them in my off time. Your rings are gorgeous, by the way! ❤
Honestly, my husband could have given me a ring pop, and I would have said yes! Lol
Hi Erin! Exactly-I prefer to keep my rings in a safe spot, and on the occasion that my husband has a special work event (like the Navy Ball) or we’re out of town, yes, it feels nice to catch of glimpse of them on my hand. But the other 99.9% of the time, it’s my “dress up” jewelry” 🥰 Congrats on 16 years of marriage! Have a Happy New Year!
I bought myself a thin gold band I wear now unless going out. Married 23 years 😊
I've lost my original wedding ring...and the 2 subsequent replacements. My weight went up and down and my fingers seemed to slim down first. Once we were arguing and I was being expressive with my hands and the ring flew off and blinked out of existence.
Thank you Cassandra! And Happy New Year to you and your family! 🎉😊🎉😊
A farmer’s daughter here. Just so you know you make me proud of all your accomplishments. I’d say you have the skills, we don’t know everything we learn what are parents do, cattle, or chickens ect, and yes a little knowledge of alot of things. A wise person said if you’re not learning you could be dead.😃
You are so well-spoken and inspirational! Thanks for sharing this insight into the way things work best for you.
So glad I stumbled upon your channel! Great information & inspiration!!!
I love your videos! I also agree with you about the wedding ring, I've been married for 37+ yrs. & I don't wear my rings for the same reason that they get on my way of household chores, specially cooking & gardening. 😊
Hello friend! Whew, so glad to hear this. I don't live a life where I need to wear anything expensive, and goodness, my hands are valuable tools always in motion :) Other than my simple routine (work, grocery store, thrifting) I'm at home or with my husband. Happy New Year!
Hi Cassandra! Only a few minutes in, but I wanted to say, how special your bond is with your dad. I get it. Your buddies. My dad and I were that way too. We didn’t cook together but we figured out everything in the garden together. We have a 1/4 acre but about the back 1/4 of that is garden, chickens and flowerbeds. Our joke was we could build anything with a staple gun, duct tape and chicken fencing lol. It’s can be very special, the bond between father and daughter. I cherished it till we lost him 4 years ago. But the memories live on. We were buddies and partners in crime. Now I’ll go back and watch the rest lol.
This is so beautiful to hear, especially from a fellow daddy's girl. One day I'll be in your place and even now I think about all the excellent memories I'll have, pictures, projects, skills, and stories to steward and pass along. You are right, a daddy-daughter relationship feels like he's your partner in crime. Thank you for sharing this sweet memory of your father, what a special man!
He was. And I often think his best quality was how hard he loved us. My parents took me and my 3 children in in 2007 from an abusive home life. He was 61 at the time and pledged to look after us. I had been running our own little garden centre but had to leave that. I took on housecleaning jobs and learned to budget fast. He was our rock. My 3 children still often reminisce about our time together. He was a loving male figure for my daughter. 2 peas in a pod lol. My sons are now 26 and 23 and both have become truckers because the example my dad gave. He was a trucker for life. They model they’re being a dad to his example. He was a humble man. Worked hard, saved hard and didn’t have a jealous bone in his body. He would be stunned at how we all remember him. Sorry to ramble on. It’s like we could be friends and talk for hours about life. I’m 52 so pretty close to the right age 😀 Take care, sweet girl
While watching this video, I had the ah-ha moment of exactly why I love your channel. It’s because homesteading is a mindset, not a location. I grew up rural and my grandparents each had small homesteads….truck patches (still have no idea why the gardens were called that 😂), chickens, a cow or two. After 34 years, my husband and I finally returned to 2.5 acres and are VERY slowly renovating our new country house and building a garden. We are blessed to be surrounded by two 100 acre properties owned by lovely neighbors. I feel like I’ve finally come home. I’m learning to can, grow, plan a more independent, quiet life. It was worth the wait. So keep building your dreams…your homestead is already active and growing. It’s a lifestyle, not a location.
That is just how I organize my refrigerator. For me I have a family of 4. Two growing boys about to reach Teenager and myself and Daddy. So my boys love stir fry and meats so my fridge just has vegetables and meats. And my kimchi, my mayo and some salad dressings and some milk. And that's about it. We used to stockpile too and it was a mess...we tossed away so much food, at least 50%. We live within 3 blocks of an Asian Grocery store. We could literally just go buy whatever we want within the HOUR. So I stopped stocking the fridge and we saved so much money. And everything is fresh. No leftovers in my family. No sweet and no junk food at all bc everybody gained too much weight during Quarantine. Every family has to have a plan for daily, weekly and long-term. So it really depends on what your family likes to eat. When I garden, my grocery bill will be even less...just buy some meat and we eat a lot of chicken and that's it.
Thanks for always being so genuine! I've been following you for a couple of years now and always so impressed with your attitude. Its inspiring! I'm in my mid 50's, now single and my girls are grown and living their own lives. I've always wanted a little hobby farm and to be honest was thinking that time may be gone, but I really like "the do with what you have" attitude you have and its got me looking around my townhouse thinking hmmm!!
I do some food preservation through fermentation and freezing. I enjoy a small garden and planning on a Greenstalk or two!!
I've just bought a canner. Never used one before but this will be the year! Been watching you and others and its time for me to learn. I like the small batch idea and think it would really work for me. I also thrift and buy out of season non food items and always bought my kids new coats/snowsuits etc (live in Ontario, Canada) at the end of the season for the following year. Its a great way to get quality items at a substantial discount.
Went on a ramble here but I really enjoy your content and you have inspired me to think outside the box. Thank you! 😊
We are retired military, it’s been 11 years since we retired. We have owned 7 acres and now our final homestead of 25 acres. Our widowed moms have cottages on our property. Our three 20 something children live on this property for now too! You have time sister! I only started day dreaming 3years prior to that retirement. We grow our own meat, garden, and all the things (I have two!!! Dairy cows) the dream is worth it- the journey is so very worthwhile. We are still just one income. Prayers for the land market to get better by the time you are looking. ❤ prayers for your future family to grow is you hope.
I am an old lady now and at a very young age had a hand/wrist injury. I've had several surgeries and I'm not gonna have any more on it. The presto single layer canner I purchased so I can handle it. I LOVE IT. I have plenty canned. My husband loves helping me. He gets more excited than me. Especially since he knows he can have deer meat canned. Dad is the one that talked me into canning. Love your channel. Blessings to you and all of yours.❤
I so appreciate your sharing your experiences and all the energy it takes to make your UA-cam channel come to life and provide the excellent education, balance, and motivation that it DOES for me. You are making such a positive difference in my life and I'm sure many others as well.
Rings do not mean anything, so many people are programmed to believe that just because you wear a ring your marriage is going to last forever. Rings are material things, the love you have with your partner is much more than that. Rings are not to be shown off anyway, its a sign of ownership and whether you're in an obligation or not, no one owns anybody. hoped this helped for anyone that is focused on rings which is the wrong thing to focus on. Love your videos and that never even crossed my mind. I am so thankful I am not programmed anymore to the things that are not of importance anymore. Yes, for anyone who is wondering I am very happily obligated. :)
A little judgmental don’t you think. My husband doesn’t own me but I honor him by wearing my rings away from the hose.
You are not alone, I am in Maryland as well. I work full time outside of the home and I have 3 kids. I can, dehydrate, garden, cook, meal prep, bake and all the rest. I grow what I can but it is work!
A great video. I do love your energy and how you get excited over things.
I know it is hard being a military spouse. My ex retired out of the military - we were together for 30 years. It really forced me to grow up alot esp when he went off to the Gulf War. We had 3 kids and I did not even drive, which made me get my driver's license. I pretty much would stay at home - was a stay-at-home mom to close to 15 years. One of my favorite places was a 3 acre mini farm were we had a garden, berries, chickens raised a couple of pigs for meat, a bull for meat, a pregnant cow, then we got stationed elsewhere. We had a wonderful neighbor who treated us just like family. The lady was a German lady who taught me about pruning, gave me tips on canning and freezing, etc. I got to the point that I was afraid to make friends due to the moves. We averaged a move every 2 years.
I now live on 10 acres with chickens. The property belongs to a cousin. I invested into 2 greenstalks last year, which I love. I planted herbs into them. I am thinking I need a couple more - so much easier to maintain. This year, I have to rethink the fencing around the gardens. The deer discovered they could jump them. For years we grew potatoes in an open area with no problem, but these deers dicovered they like them as well.
A couple of years ago, my cousin got a deer and we decided to can some. It was really good. We also made our own sausage and vension bologna.
You are an amazing individual and have a great channel. Happy New Year!
The question about your dog Thor was my favorite part of the video and also do you style your hair yourself? And also can you make a video on homemade dog food and dog treats please? Have a Happy New Years to you and your family and your friends God-bless you all ❤🎉
Everyone has to do as they feel comfortable, but I've used the 15.5 All American canner on my glass top range -- it's not a big one, but not that small either. And thankfully, I've not had any problems. Small batch canning, yes.
I bought a $25 ring on Amazon that I wear daily instead of my wedding ring and I don’t worry about it it gets lost, dirty etc.
I have a set of silicone rings that I wear when doing martial arts, so that I don't hurt others when sparring or grappling. It's kind of fun having different colors to choose from.
That’s such a smart idea and totally what we should have done in the first place. I’m so not into “fancy” jewelry of any kind. It was paid off at purchase but goodness, I’m just not a diamond gal😜 Happy New Year to you!
I love your slow-and-steady-wins-the-race approach to homesteading! We tend to want everything NOW! That's unrealistic and unhealthy.
I could really see you doing a book or somehow compiling all your resources for a seasonal kitchen. You are so good at shopping seasonally and using or preserving what you buy and grow in creative ways seasonally. I really appreciate your help with that! Our culture has grown out of that traditional way of living in many ways.
Happy New Year! You inspire me Cassandra! I have a condo but am a farm girl at heart. Thank you for your wonderful information and inspiration! Thor is adorable!
You're such a wealth of information and inspiration, and you never fail to make me feel like things that have always felt so far out of reach/outside of my abilities ARE possible with time and effort. I love your personality and I'm wishing a prosperous 2024 for you! xx
I love what you do and are so happy you share your journey. I am a single 67-year old and thought similarly during COVID lockdown. I bought a small freezer and got to work. I've ripped out most of my lawn and planted natives, nothing edible for me but the birds and bees are happy and I know I am doing my part for farmers! No chemicals here, I bend and pick weeds as needed. I plan to start a couple of small raised beds in the next couple of months. I am in a 10a so we shall see what I can do with the veggies. We all need to think about sourcing our own food for lots of reasons.
Cassandra love your channel! You have inspired me to preserve in more ways than I even knew about!
Wedding rings... Lol my hubs worked in concrete and when we got married he had a dress ring ( channel set diamonds) and he had a work ring cheap white gold that he wore daily. On Friday nights he would switch out and always made sure that he wore the dress ring to church.Meant the world that he loved our rings that much, he in return would let me take off my rings to garden paint and do work in the kitchen. So it's very common for couples to be more committed to the vows than a piece of jewelry! Glad you and the hubs "do you" 😉 Us farm girls take care of what we have on all levels! ❤
I love that you learning the skills that everyone used to know and sharing them with us. I decided some years ago that I would learn to make soap for myself. I felt like it was a lost art.
I’m the first woman on my mom’s side to stay at home and cook/preserve in 4 generations, great-great Gma Irene, and even after being married and homesteading for 20 years I’m still learning!! Thanks for your videos. ❤
Happy New Year, Cassandra! You are such an inspiration.
We had a min-pin named Thor. His full name was Thor-nado. He was a whirl wind of activity and great hunter. Loved that dog so much. He lived to be 14 years old. Thanks for another great video. Happy 2024 to you and yours.
When I got married I specifically asked for a very simple, smooth gold band to serve as both engagement & wedding ring for that reason... the thought of food / dirt etc getting caught up in the crevices of a traditional wedding ring made me nauseous haha. I would lose my ring immediately if I had to remove it all the time to cook etc, since it's simple I can just wash it when I wash my hands and feel confident it's clean enough for handling food.
A Becoming A Farm Girl Guide. It would be all encompasing on where you started to present day. It doesn't have to be just a cookbook. You are so positive and encouraging. Thank you for this Video.
It would also include the monthly grocery guide. If in ebook, then have links to print.
@@lovealwaysmom I agree! An ebook would be just the ticket. Printable charts would be nice.
Ah, Cassandra… you are such a blessing and encouragement. Praying The Father’s continued peace and blessings over your life as you strive to live your life for Him.
I don’t wear my wedding ring very much either. Gardening, cooking, making bread from scratch all the time makes it impractical for me. Same reason I don’t polish my nails lol!
Happy New Year, Cassandra! I appreciate your energy and outlook. You inspire and uplift me, and I always come away with a helpful idea. Blessings to you and your loved ones in 2024!
Hello sweet friend! I am so happy to hear this:) And yes, Happy New Year to you and yours as well!
🇦🇺Jam’s are great as a meat glaze in the oven or bbq or a base for sauces or in a sweet and sour.
I just found your channel this week. I love your friendly upbeat personality. I have been a homesteader for years raising our own veggies and meat. But I am expanding what I do. I used to freeze everything, but now I am entering into a season where I am canning and dehydrating. I love your tips.
I was in the same predicament ring wise and I just ran down to Walmart and bought the cheapest gold band they had- I think I paid $43 for it 😅. I could wear a ring, the good stuff was at home in the safe not getting trashed and everybody was happy lol.
Amen sister, you said it best!
I agree I love my presto canners. I too am now using a glass top. Maybe after i win the lotto and get a huge kitchen I may get one but for now i am successful with my 2 prestos.
Thank you Cassandra all your videos. I love cook and always has been. I have been cooking since the age of 10. So your difference dishes you make. Make me love it more. The butternut squash who would have thought and I didn't know you could eat the whole squash the skin and all. I love it! Thank you so much!
Your slow-cooker story for getting a homestead has been a massive encouragement to your fellow urban-farmers, like me! I so appreciate your excellent storytelling and am so invested in where God takes you on this lovely journey. I am also totally with you on the concept of community sufficiency, which I practiced recently by learning to pressure can alongside my sister-in-law. Keep up the good work Cassandra, you're doing good things! :)
I was so excited to dibs your channel. I am a farmgirl trapped in the suburbs. Your channel has reminded me of how I grew up and the things Momma and Granny taught me (they lived through the depression) and how much I love canning and gardening even though I have to work full-time. Thank you!
I am addicted to your Grape Nuts. This is quite the task living in Mexico on a sailboat and using a toaster oven to save trips to the stations to fill up the propane tanks that fuel the galley oven. Thank you.