How I make a living - affording my country cottage life 

more important points I couldn’t fit into this video! ⬇️ I hope this gives you some insight on my journey building my career into what it is now. I have finally gotten to a place where I chose to diversify not because I need to, but want to in order to pursue my art and teaching interests. I am thankful that for about 5 months now I’ve had my online business grow to be successful, so that has been an enormous and life changing gift. A year ago, I made the firm decision to do whatever possible to be able to stay in the place I loved, and that conviction really forced me get creative. This isn’t advice or an example for comparison. We are all on our own unique journeys and have different types of support and strengths. But I hope that wherever you are, you find those people in your life, whether or not they are family, that can offer encouragement and feedback on your plans and decisions. I know of few things that have more value than an authentic human connection. Wishing you all the best. ❤️ PS: I have noticed that occasionally someone writes a comment criticizing people who have leant on family support during difficult times (or helped them relocate or start a new career), suggesting that their life is less impressive or not worth respecting because of it. I understand that not everyone has this privilege, and I hope that in the same way that I have great respect for the strength and perseverance of those who have had to face the trials of life alone, I hope you may show that same respect to others in the comments. Please consider the struggling adults, students and those who have found themselves unemployed during this time. They do not need to carry the extra burden of shame. I have watched friends laid off who have no choice but to move in with their families or asked for help in some way. Let’s offer each other support and understanding, as no one knows the life and trials someone else has faced.

Your mom is beautiful. Wish I had married her. Oh, I did. I am definitely the lucky one.

At 48 I became a yoga teacher! And now at 68 I am becoming a writer, and will be published in June!

It is NEVER embarrassing to rely on your family. Society NEEDS families!

As a mother, it is an honor to help whenever I am needed by my children. I am sure most parents feel this way. Never feel like a failure. Life is a journey.

My two girls are very self sufficient and successful in their careers. As a parent, I see my role as a “port in the storm”, whenever I’m needed. There is no guilt in seeking shelter from the storm ⛈. That is what families do for each other.

"No body, but nobody makes it out here alone." As a parent of an adult child I am honored when ever my child trusts me enough to ask for my help. Peace to your heart.

We need to normalise supporting and helping one another, until recently it was normal to live in multi-generational homes where EVERYONE contributed and if someone needed a bit of extra help then it was expected the household would come together and help. It’s a reciprocal relationship. There’s a line between being taken advantage of and being a soft place to fall for those you care about.

I’m 26 and moving back home with my parents in the fall until I’m a little more financially stable and healthy. I’ve felt so ashamed of this until I watched this video. I’m also a writer (and dream of a country life like you have!) so this video just gives me hope that maybe one day I truly can make a living off of that and live the lifestyle I dream of. Thank you so much for this. You have no idea how much of an inspiration this has been. ❤️

Friends who criticise your choices are not true friends. It is not embarrassing to admit you need help, it is wisdom and a form of strength. I reached out to my parents when I needed their help and I gave it back when they needed mine. It is what families do.

I am a 26 year old, currently unemployed and living at home. My grandma developed dementia last year and needs round the clock care. It's hard not being able to work and earn money and be independent but my grandma is worth it. I do have a blog on the side and maybe some day I'll earn a tiny amount with it but right now I am focusing on my grandma. Life has seasons.

There's definitely a shift happening. Many are tired of the homogenized, globalized world that has developed. Many want simplicity and a decentralized existence.

I just stumbled upon your channel today, and I been binge watching your videos. Your videos are highly inspiring, and calming. You are very creative, and inspirational. Thank you for sharing your story with the world. Keep up the great work you are doing, you are doing awesome with your videos!

People doesn't understand that life is not a competition. You have to be happy and that's all. Enjoying the small moments like you are doing is the best part! One day, I'll do the same. Greetings from Brazil!

An imperfect home made pie will always be more beautiful than a store bought pie. Happy birthday Luke.

I am so happy for you that you have a supportive family. My parents were always disappointed with the jobs I chose. I worked 20 years in book stores, 5 years with a cookware retailer, and am now in my 9th year at an organic grocery. What you are doing is wonderful. You are giving peace and pleasure to thousands of people.

I have never seen a patterned rolling pin before in my life. What an excellent idea.

In many European cultures (and Asian too) it is quite normal to see parents help their grown children with whatever they can, they do it with love and pride, and children are grateful and will look after their parents if need be later down the line. I love this support and collaboration between generations ❤️

I'm mother to two adult daughters. I am proud of them and delighted to be their safety nets if and when they need a safe place to land. Parenting doesn't stop when your babies turn 18.

That pie lid was an exceptional work of art in itself ❤️

I look at the beauty and simplicity in your life and am grateful that there are talented creatives rejecting the modern city life and getting back to some basics. You are a role model for those of us still tied to the modern existence. Oh and your pie was an absolute work of art and love. Hello from Australia.

Anne of Green Gables would absolutely love you, such kindred spirits

One is not an island; instead, we are bridges --- extending to help, encourage growth, and offer goodness to others. Your channel is a beautiful expression of this. Thank you.

This is one of the most beautiful vlogs I’ve seen. I wouldn’t just call your angles “camera work” but cinematography. So beautiful! I love the thoughtful voiceover segments of you reflecting upon a theme while we watch you create something beautiful. And the juxtaposition of the reflection/action segments with you speaking directly to the camera - provides a delightful contrast that makes you “real” to us. You see, the reflection/action segments are so beautiful - pastoral, like a moving painting - that they are dreamlike. When you then speak to the camera, it’s fun to get the sense that you’re a real person...almost like the painting is coming to life. Great choice of music too. I love the pace of these videos. Just so lovely.

I’m touched by how much of your life you shared with us in this video. You’ve helped more people than you might realize!

I feel shamed that I get no emotional support around me when I need it. In my eyes you are blessed, not shamed.

Can I just that your voice is so very peaceful and soothing to hear, especially for people who deal with anxiety. Thanks for sharing these wonderful experiences with the world! :)

I am Irish and we never stop giving dig outs to our kids or family...money or resourses flows in all directions and comes back to us if given with an open heart...We all work hard but sometimes there are unforseen situations or circumstances that pitch us or our kids into crisis..its comforting to know you can rely on those we love to be there...as a life long giver a friend reminded me lately of how poor I am at allowing people to give a little back when i was very ill...I gratefully assisted help and it saved my life. My expressed gratitude for the assistance given brought me closer to those who helped and I learned the magic of giving is a reciprocal one...everyone benefits...so relax Payola...accept...and pay it forward when the time is right.

To all of you reading this : Please don't hesitate to extend a helping hand to those who need it.There are a lot of people out there who have no relatives or friends. Just give them " a fishing rod " instead of "a fish. "

You will not regret teaching art. After 25 years as a graphic artist for a company, they unexpectedly decided to lay me off. Needless to say that rocked my world greatly. It took a year to get my feet steady again and experience much heartache trying to continue in this field. However God had other plans. I heard a voice at the end of the year that said I needed to teach. I reached out to my church that had a fine arts school. They were excited about the possibility. I wanted to teach realistic art skills to teens to seniors. That was over two years ago. I cannot express the joy and peace that I have experienced seeing people learn to express themselves in many mediums. Not only do I see improvement but I also see hearts healed and peace come into their lives. And if I have encouraged someone to open themselves to apply art skills at home on their own then I have done my job and made a difference in this world. You are such a kind hearted and sensitive person. I am sure you will be successful in this decision and I wish you many blessings in your life as an art teacher. ❤️ Rachel Paulette Tawzer from Tennessee.

Your story about the almost-exploding pie reminds me of the time when I made dinner for the man who became my husband. I burned the rice. When I showed him, he said, “Thank you,” and he ate it. That was one of the many little incidents that showed me that we could live well together. We could make mistakes and help each other, and, also, when things got tough and one of might start to fray emotionally, we could be there for each other. In marriage (and if and when kids come along) making do and finding the happiness in that is often more needed than making beautiful or making perfect.I think that almost-exploding pies can be a blessing, when you can enjoy them together.

One of the most wonderful things in life is giving and receiving aid and comfort from family members - there is something timeless about it. We all need help at sooner or later.

In the US we are way too individualistic. We need help, we need other people and there is no shame in that! God bless!

When Covid hit I was happy to pay for my 24yr old daughter to quickly fly back to New Zealand from Australia and she lived with us for 4 months.She had not been home for 5yrs.

YOU'RE PUERTO RICAN?! Omg this brings me so much joy! I relate to you so much but felt that in doing so, I was "betraying my heritage." I have so much family tell me that my interests and aesthetic makes me not "Puerto Rican" and it's so demeaning. It's good to know that someone like you both shares my ethnicity and is purely herself, with no borders around that. It is so awesome to see. Side note though, your mother is absolutely beautiful, and you and her eating cheese and coffee brings me such nostalgia. Blessings to you and your family

I'm starting law school this fall and it's just as scary, if not even more scary, than moving away for my bachelors education. Because my parents are immigrants working blue collar jobs, I often had to support myself through school. It's a lot sometimes but hopefully I'll be able to get through it and reach my dreams

“the moment you can start laughing at your mistakes in life, everything gets better” haha i do this all the time. also, it’s important to understand that mistakes are a part of the learning process and proof that you’re trying.

Thank you for sharing your story. My son is going through something similar. He is a musician and his world fell apart last April right as he was graduating from college. He lost his job, his band folded, and he had to move back to his hometown so we could help him. It has been hard for him.

What you said about reaching out to family for help and support as an adult really hit home. I had to do the same recently and it was more difficult than it should be to call my family. Thank you for being so relatable and comforting. My niece and I love your videos and have been watching them when we cook and paint. Keep being completely yourself

The west side of my country is burning for 3 days. We are so bad mood in Turkey. But watching your videos made me calm and peacefull. Keep spreading this good vibe all around sister. Wish you an amazing life.

That’s what FAMILY is all about. Parents helping their adult children, grown children caring for their elders, siblings stepping in where needed. We are all connected. Only in a monetary driven society do we spurn the old and criticize the young who stumble on hard times. Never be ashamed of your story.

Anyone else love the fact that she was just eating pie with a bunny in her lap? 🥰🥰🥰

Watching from NC USA! You are an inspiration. Keep going. I am a Filipino by blood line, 47 yrs old but if I need help from family & friends, I would do it. I believe that it shows my honesty & by doing that, I could regain my strength. We always observe close family ties & support each other . That’s a blessing! Above all, God is my strength & refuge.

I'm 27, living with my sister. At the beginning I wanna move out and live alone because I hate the feeling of depending on others but my saving was not enough for that, but rn I think it's better for me to depend on her sometimes. My online business is getting better, thank god

I was not gifted with an emotionally or financially supportive mother in this life so I love hearing stories about those whose parents help them achieve their dreams. I am excited for you to become an art teacher. What a lovely career path!

One of the main differences between Americans and Latins is relationship with our relatives, specially our parents. Asking your parents to help you overcome a difficult moment should not be a reason to feel ashamed. That's what family is for. There will come a time when you will be able to help them 😊

That's the most beautiful pie I have ever seen, bubbling and all. I'm sure your parents are proud of you and glad to have you near.

I’m Kathleen I’ve always loved penpals and so this is kind of that for me.I’m a retired social worker drug addiction counsellor,I worked front line for 18 years, I’m now living in a quiet senior building on the edge of a small city in Canada Eastren shores.I love your videos they bring me closer to the things I value and not many but a few people living quietly…….we could start up a group, well maybe we have of quiet living people.I have a car but only spend it’s energy once a week or maybe just a weee joy ride it’s one of my favorite things to do,drive.I love to drive.

I always get surprised at how the western world look at leaning on family for support when in need😢. One thing I appreciate of our African culture, and I mean born and raised in Africa, is the willingness to ask and extend help. In fact, it's always expected. Not to say it's a right, because it's always appreciated, by both the giver(surprise), and the receipt 🙏🏻. I totally appreciate this aspect of humanity in our culture 💖

I too have had to run to my family for support after some devastating circumstances. It did make me absolutely ashamed of myself to ask for help but in our time of need isn't that what families are for? Love and support? I would help them if they needed help because I love them.

I am sitting here with tears in my eyes as I watch this. I know I shouldn't envy others but damn I want this life so much. I just spent two days really sick because of my reaction to the second COVID shot and while physically I feel better, I feel so guilty at the same time because I realized I was happier while sick and being taken care of by wife rather than working. I mean, hell, I work in a field that my degree is relevant in- not something most people my age can say that they do. I know I'm lucky to have a job and health insurance, but I want to reconnect with nature and live in a rural area. I'm so tired of my city. Anyway, I'm sorry for complaining on such a beautiful video. I just wish I lived a simpler life with my wife and my cat that wasn't so dominated by work.

The whole vibe of your videos made me vividly remember my childhood with my grandmother. We used to walk through patches of tall grass, finding good ones to braid later. I've lost that happy connection with my younger self, but now that the world is in a state were being healthy is far more important than being busy, I think I'll make the choice of doing less in favour of my health and sanity. Thank you. This made me really, really happy and quite emotional :)

At 72 y.o.a. and being unemployed for a year I have become a self-taught swimming pool designers the pay is not great but I have found a passion in desing pool and out door living for others

When I was eighteen I moved out of my parents' house and began working while putting myself through college. People in my generation pretend that problems younger people have don't exist just because we didn't have those problems. Getting help used to be shameful, but now it is (probably) essential, respectable and even responsible.

There's absolutely nothing wrong asking your parents for temporary assistance when life becomes too much to bear. You did the sensible thing at the time, and I'm sure they were more than happy to assist. You are a remarkable and endearing woman my dear Paula. Your artistic abilities and creations are a Godsend. I wish so much joy, peace, prosperity and blessings. Much love to you and your wonderful family always. 🙏🏻💖🙏🏻

I was 23 working as a paralegal in a private small law office. My boss was very toxic and I wanted to work as a ESL teacher. I had every intention of getting my masters in education but my intuition told me not to. Instead I applied to be an after school teacher and taught ESL to adults and spanish for kids. I loved what I did even thought my pay was cut 80%. It was through the people in that school that I met my boyfriend and even got promoted to program coordinator. There were months of employment uncertainty and I received financial support from my parents and I still thank God for meeting all of my needs during that time.

I am not a mother but the oldest sister. As an oldest grew up and experienced the most difficult life that a little girl could have been through, I've promised myself to finish school no matter what, get a job and help my younger siblings and mother to have a better life. I am thankful to God that He uses me to make a difference to my family's life and other people. ❤

Getting family support is absolutely WONDERFUL! Never be ashamed to ask parents for help because one day you will return the favor. As a mother, grandmother and daughter, I have developed a support system that works well for all 4 generations!❤️❤️❤️❤️

I don't think we should be embarrassed to ask for help, especially from our family. Every human being, at some point in life, can face a great obstacle and the very fact that he/she has the power to ask for help is a sign of power. You have to be strong to be vulnerable and honest in front of others. I appreciate you for what you do and I understand that you did not have an easy life. I'm glad to see that you do what you love and that you find beauty in simple things. Sending you love 💖

Wow, love your expressive voice-over and way that you film. Has a cinematic quality to it!

I was one of those people who felt it was embarrassing to ask parents for help after you've left, but I kicked my pride aside and did it after a job loss. He reminded me that he had to ask his mom for help in his 30s, so don't be ashamed.

At 60 I had to depend on asking my older brother and sister in law for help. Her words....never feel bad about asking, we're happy to help. Now that I'm in a position 2 yrs later to help my grown daughter and her family, I too am so happy I can help. It's like giving a gift, it's always more fun to give than receive.

This was touching for some reason. It's really tough out there when people don't have a job. Thank you for sharing and I hope everything stays okay. Love from India.

So sorry to hear that you suffered some trauma but so glad that you reached out to your family and are becoming the beautiful person you area. I really love watching them from my chaotic life in Melbourne, Australia 🇦🇺 They bring me peace and hope. Your pie (even without a vent) was a masterpiece!!

Your RU-vid channel brings so much peace!

My parents died when I was 29 and 30. I’ve had to take care of myself ever since. It was extremely hard at times. A lot of the time. I am 53 and proud that I am such a strong and independent person...I’ve pulled myself up out of financial and even emotional despair, by my own bootstraps, more times than I can count. However I don’t know how to ask for help let alone receive it. I truly remind myself of the song desperado. That’s me. I love my simple life and I’m an introvert and a loner... still, I wonder what it would be like to have my mom or my dad all these years. The only ones who were there for me. You are lucky to have people to lean on. We all should have that.

I just found your channel yesterday, and now I cannot stop watching your videos. Your words are full of wisdom and the visuals are stuuuuuuuunning. Thank you for being you! My favourite part was you eating pie on the counter with a bunny in your lap. Big hug all the way from Denmark, Scandinavia. Wish you all the best.

Family should always there to always lend support. Family is the foundation of our lives. I have been criticized by well meaning friends for providing assistance here and there as my children needed it. Today I can proudly say I have 3 grown children who are financially independent and are adulting well on their own.

From a father’s perspective, I want/need my children to ask for my help. It is part of my fulfillment as a father and dad. I believe this is my favorite video of yours thus far. You simply motivate me to take things slowly, enjoy the little things and appreciate the nature around me.

That has GOT to be the most BEAUTIFUL pie I have ever seen!! I was a Special Education Teacher for 14 years, until some health challenges came along, now I am a "stay at home Grandma." 😊 I am so inspired by your lovely, peaceful videos!

I was about to say, I hope Luke knows how blessed he is to have a woman like you in his life. But then you had that last clip at the end. I saw how he looked at you. I'm pretty certain he knows.

My parents are dead ( my father died 20 years ago, my mother 15 years ago), but I still miss them, because they were able to give me good ideas, when I thought there was no possibility, but at the same time they encouraged me to be independent. Love your videos. Greetings from Italy, Lake Maggiore

Happy Birthday, Luke! Thank you, once again, my friend for being such an encouraging, yet quiet, voice in a very loud and hectic world

I had to stop my workout to respond lol but there is absolutely NO shame in moving back home! I had to move back home and as my parents helped me when I was down and out I have now been able to help them as they are both in their 80s. I also been able to go back to school and make more money. When the time is right I'll be able to buy a house but I'm so grateful to be able to be there for them. Consider yourself blessed that you have parents to help you. ❤️

hey, how nice to hear your story. im from brazil and last year i left the big city for a very small village. i am 39 and going thru a moment of feeling so lost about what i want to do as a career. i was a teacher, and now i work as a website developer, ive been so many other things too like sales manager and flight attendant. i would love to live and make a living doing what something i love, but im at a loss. thanks for sharing, it was truly inspiring!

you're a Therapeutic, in the midst of this chaotic year.. Thank you so much. I am always waiting for your videos every week. You help someone's life out there I am one of them. Not physically but with your calming persona, your serenity, your simplicity, the outlook of life you have. You encouraged me to see life as it is .

I'm a teacher for many years, but I found that only teaching is not enough, I still have so many things I want to share with the wold, that's why I started my YT channel, even though it's far from the point of making money out of it, but at least YT is one of my way to express myself and I'm happy for it.

As a Latina, we stay home until we get married! It’s been a blessing living with my mom. We are besties and I’ve been able to save money. I’m also helping her pay off her house. I’m also a teacher! I teach ESL :) love your channel!! It’s so peaceful.

Never a shame to ask family for help. Who else can we turn to but the people who love us unconditionally and raised us to be who we are. I’m glad to hear that you did not hesitate to reach out.

I’m an adult who moved back home to live with her parents years ago. I got really sick at the time and needed to leave my job. Of course, I was devastated, but years later, I enjoy living with my parents. We get along well, help each other, and I think it’s better to be with family than to sit in an empty apartment eating dinner alone every day. I’ve had manyyyyy people tell me I’m wrong for this and call me a deadbeat (even tho I work). But... I don’t have a significant other and I don’t want to live alone. My family and I enjoy each other’s company. I don’t see what the problem is?

I did not have parents I could ask when I needed help-you can bet I help my sons...often. They work hard and I make sure they know they have a soft place when needed. I must say, that was the prettiest pie crust I have ever seen.

Thank you for sharing your journey. I am a survivor too. But I was only brave to embrace who I am in 2017. The moment I chose to do what makes feel happy and what allows me to share my gifts, freedom came into my heart and mind and I discovered true happiness in my 50s.

I have only very recently discovered your channel….and what a beautiful, peaceful, channel it is! You are indeed an artist!! Thank you 🌺 I am from the south shore of Nova Scotia, CDA…on the Atlantic. Originating from the Pacific shores of CDA, I moved out here with my three very young children after my husband died….and when family refused to help….with a dream for a slower way of life. My career as a Registered Nurse has been able to afford us a modest home that I’m slowly and lovingly renovating…and, situated on a cove, a property that will feed our bellies and our soul! When life gets hectic, your channel and my wee piece of paradise remind me to breathe in peace and comfort. Thank you.

Families are there to support you. There is no shame in it. My angel mother paid for my master degree university fees. I am so grateful to her. She is my angel

I would reevaluate those friends who pointed out that in their opinion it’s embarrassing to ask for help. Parents are always there for you. Someday you will be there for them.

Watching your video brings me such peace. Listening to your journey, gives me hope. I have such admiration for yiu. I love your little black bunny! ❤️ Your voice is very soothing, and you are just a pleasure to watch. Blessings to you for the rest of your life journey young lady. 🙏

Your videos are so peaceful…I’m going through a lot of health challenges right now…currently sitting in a hospital room, but for 8 minutes, you helped me feel I was somewhere else that was beautiful. Thank you 🙏🏼

I am Bulgarian and it's neither uncommon, nor embarrassing in my culture for children to get help from their parents or even live with them forever. People move for school or marriage, of course, but they are not pressured to... Well, we are pressured to get married, but not to move out :D I moved 3 hours away from my parents after high school and even though I had access to incredible opportunities for personal and academic growth, traveled the world, and met wonderful people (including my husband), I've always been a little bit sad that my parents were no longer direct witnesses of my growth.

There is NO such thing as a "self-made" person. We all need help, to be needed, to give, and to receive. Fairy, I'm glad you were able to hack a life that works best for you -- it's inspiring to me at 41, as I don't have it figured out. I do know, however, as someone very much alone, how wonderful it is (or would be) to have support. For anyone reading, look to your loved ones with appreciation and gratitude! XOXO

Dear Paola, I found your channel a month ago and I cant' stop watching. I've told everyone about you I send a link to all my friends and my daughter Whitney she loves you! She just came over for Father's day to give gifts to her dad. But surprised me with 3 of your beautiful flower pictures i was so happy and grateful! Since I've been watching you I have been making something new everyday and make my husband watch he doesn't mind! Thank you again for just being you! Your amazing beautiful and the most precious soul ever! Bless you in all you do! Keep on keeping on. You bring so much joy to the world! God bless P.S. we'll be ordering more stuff. Love Tabitha

Wow. I just love randomly finding your reflective presentations and listening while Im working in my kitchen. Im glad you've made a path for yourself that means so much and offers so much. Your videos are just so edifying and inspiring. Take good care and be well.

The pie looked amazing! My parents helped each of their five children and all of their grandchildren - all at different times, different amounts and in different ways. My dad told me: “once you have kids, you are no longer working for yourselves”. It’s what good humans do. PS beautiful story!

In Austria now itˋs 6.30 am and Thursday. Every single week, when my family is still sleeping, First I watch your Video, and the day starts brighter. ( sorry my englisch isnˋt the best! ) Best wishes from the Tyrolean Alps!

I'm trying to buy my own land. It's a nightmare. Either scams or it's too expensive. You really have quite the touch. Keep it up. My kids Have to rely on me for now. No biggie. We all lift together.

Not sure why this video popped up in my feed....but glad it did. This is such a breath of fresh air from all the so called " Off Grid " Living channels that just promote only fans accounts. Thank you for being such a nice, calming and inspiring place to spend my evening.

Probably the best filming, editing and dialogue I have seen on RU-vid. The beauty and serenity of a Fairy Tale Princess is just the best addition. :)

Bonjour tout le monde! I am 43 voiceover artist, audiobook narrator .I used to be a school teacher for 15 years and I took the leap last September to be fully self-employed as a voiceover actress.

I love hearing your voice and your videos! I feel like home. It’s very peaceful. Thank You for sharing your gifts and insights!

Watching this video is so soothing and relaxing. The music. The voice. The setting and decor. The soft colours. The pacing. Everything.

I have been so flustered with my hectic life lately... this was just the break that I needed 💗