We’re really grateful for so many different things. We are grateful for each other and for this wonderful homestead that just keeps getting better every day.
When I think of moving here in 2003, in February, when there was nothing but small trees, old logs and stumps with big woods all around and all we’ve accomplished it doesn’t seem possible: the log house, huge storage building, big gardens, berry patch, orchard, tons of fencing, fenced pig pastures or extra garden (whichever is needed), a training ring and adjacent barn, clearing two pastures, then the third huge one on the new forty acres we bought three years ago, plowing and planting many acres, buying haying equipment, and building the new barn.
Stocking up the pantry after nearly depleting it after our move here is beyond belief. We’re eating our own home-raised pork, chicken, eggs, milk, and beef along with some canned venison from last year as well as plenty of fruits and vegetables from our homestead.
The bread we bake is from flour we grind and after that bout with diverticulitis, I’m SO happy to be able to eat whole wheat bread again! It’s like a celebration, pulling a loaf out of the oven. We never take things for granted but appreciate every single day. — Jackie
All,
Thank you so much. We love you all as you’re all family to us. I hope as Christmas approaches you’ll all have blessings to remember. We are truly thankful for each one of you and all of our own gifts.
Of course we work hard. We know God helps us out but sure doesn’t expect us to sit on our bums and wait for Him to deliver all the goodies in life. Merry Christmas to you all and the very BEST NEW YEAR!
Wishing you and your family a very Merry “Christ”mas and a happy, healthily New Year.
I rank this year as one of my Best Ever and part of the reason was being at your Fall Seminar in September. What a wonderful experience for me! Seeing your pictures impress me with how much you two have done in just the three months since I was there, too…not to mention the fact of your 11 years of accomplishments. Facing the challenges you had would have broken other people, but not Jackie. Your wealth of knowledge and willingness to share is a rare treasure that we all benefit from. Thank you, thank you, for giving us this gift. Will and Jackie–a dynamic duo! The Best to you in 2015. And by the way, I still can’t make my bread look like yours!
Thanks to Jackie and Will for sharing knowledge, experiences, their positive outlook, and the inspiration to keep going. Blessings to you all – have a productive New Year.
Jackie and Will, You are surely blessed! You and your family have worked so hard to accomplish an enormous amount of things through these years. I salute you for your work ethic and for your willingness to share your knowledge with all of us who love you! A very Merry Christmas wish to you both and your family, and we hope that 2015 brings you more great joy. God bless you both! Wendy
Merry Christmas to you and your family! Thank you for helping us all with your advice throughout the year. Best wishes for 2015.
You, as well as many other homesteaders have found the true meaning of happiness. That is counting your blessings. We live a different/difficult life personally here. Most folks would have given up by now. Instead, we count our blessings!
Merry Christmas to one and all. Remember…….. It is not the amount of material gifts (most being frivolous) that you receive, but the meaning behind things. Also, remember the reason for the season. Bless each and every one of you.
Yes, you are so right to count your blessings at this time of year. We probably all need to be doing more of that. To strive to be self sufficient is a wonderful life journey with so much satisfaction to be gained. Even though most of us are not where you are on the trail, those of us following you can be proud of all they have accomplished.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Your column is such a joy….it’s like hearing from an old friend…..We are blessed by reading it…..The Lord bless you and we wish you a Merry Christmas and the best to you and yours in the New Year.
I too am blessed. You and Will have worked hard for all your blessings. There has been no sitting back on your laurels expecting things to come your way. I am always in awe at how much you accomplish. Have a good holiday.
You have accomplished so much. It is a testimony to “plodding along” with what you have, then seeing it in hindsight one day. Congratulations.
You are blessed with your homestead and we’re blessed that you share your knowledge with us. Have a very Merry Christmas and the happiest and healthiest of New Years!
You guys are truly blessed and I’ve been blessed since I started getting your posts and your books. Have a wonderful Christmas.
The bread looks wonderful. Have a hot slice with butter on it for me.
You are, indeed, blessed beyond measure. We, too, are blessed. Enjoy your post so much. Look for it every day. It is great to see what you have accomplished. Merry Christmas to the both of you.
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