Collecting References! Win Signed Books!
I am going to create a website for Cold Antler Farm and all it's offerings. I think the blog will remain exactly the same, but this site will link to it for folks, but this new site will be about me the author and speaker and also feature my graphic design work, (since it is a growing part of how I make a living). What I would like is to collect any recommendations from folks who have attended workshops, camps, received logos, basically spent time here on the farm or worked with me. You are also welcome to ad book and blog reviews, particularly if this website has helped you in any way realize your own dreams. If you do so I might use them on the site with your credit and permission. Basically, readers and clients are references to folks who do not know me.
This is indeed going to take some of your time and I don't want to appear ungrateful! So I will pick a random blog comment to win a Season Pass to Cold Antler Farm events or three signed books of mine (your choice!) if you can't attend events here at the farm. I thank you in advance for this early Yule Gift and hope you are ready to enjoy this season, full force!
posted by Jenna Woginrich at 11:01 AM
89 Comments:
A comment 'cause I wanna visit.
Hi Jenna, Would love to get one of your signed books.
Hi Jenna, Would love to win one of your books.
Here's my comment! Is the season pass only good for 2016?
I love CAF - I already got a book signed in person but sure as hell won't turn down another.
Jenna and Coldantler Farm have been an inspiration for many years. In some ways the farm has given me drive to continue my pursuits toward homesteading, plus provided a community of similar minded folk that helped sustain achieving my own homesteading dreams. I learned of CAF when I was still dreaming of owning chickens. Now I have the chickens, a rabbitry, sheep, and more, and just purchased acreage for my own homesteading efforts to thrive. In some ways Coldantler is responsible for all of it becoming possible. I look forward to the day I can visit the farm again to take in a workshop and fellowship with other homesteaders along with the CAF crew, but for now I remain inspired by the blog/vlogs and vicariously enjoy the wood stove through the long winter. Thank you Jenna.
Lara
Sundog Farm and Orchard
*not sure if this is what you’re looking for, but I mean every single word:-)
Jenna, your honest and transparent writing have helped me see that a dream, any dream, is a possibility. An often messy and frightening possibility, but achievable. And that the messy, sad, hard parts make it so much more than a dream but a beautiful, fulfilling life. It's worth it to stick with the life you love!
Well the first time I read the forward to one of Jenna's books I cried! I was so relieved that someone had put a name to my affliction - "Barnheart". I went to Jenna's book signing and I was smitten, love at first sight. Jenna has done so much to encourage me in my addiction - sometimes to my husband's dismay! Jenna has become more than a friend to us - she is part of our family. Always full of stories, jokes and a huge source of information as well as inspiration. I can flatly blame my chicken addiction, lamb habit and adventurous lifestyle - including bating and trapping hawks or galloping up a mountain on a MONDAY on Jenna Woginrich. Jenna doesn't know everything but she sure as hell will try to find out and then teach others.
To answer the above comment - this prize is good for a year from first usage!
Thank you all for these comments!
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Cold Antler Farm is a wonderful place. No, I've never been there - and I don't know if my schedule and Jenna's will ever mesh in such a way that I will be able to visit - but I feel like I know it. Vicariously, through Jenna's blogs and vlogs, I've experienced the drunken pigs, the unruly sheep, and the satisfying accomplishments that come from doing what she does. Thanks to the inspiration I've gotten from Jenna, I have real plans for a garden big enough for my family so I can stop buying produce at the grocery store and a chicken coop so I can have my own eggs. Even if I never get to the real place, I will forever be a reader of Cold Antler Farm. And I will forever be grateful to Jenna for sharing it all with us.
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I hope that great picture of the back of your truck with Friday makes it to the website header.
I hope that great picture of the back of your truck with Friday looking out makes it to the website header.
Should we email you the recommendation or post it here?
Lara, Rae, Patty W. and Kim have all expressed my sentiments exactly. From the moment I met Jenna through her very first book, Made From Scratch, and through her blog and subsequent books I have felt she is a soul mate in every way. She has inspired me encouraged me, made me laugh,cry and every emotion in between that goes into living this wonderful, independent life style that is as old as the beginning of time. I cannot say enough about how inspiring it is to see a young person living her dream, totally independent and living off the land and her animals - it's just so refreshing in these times. Jenna, once again, I thank you, I applaud you and keep doing what you are doing. I will forever be a fan and one day I promise I am going to get up there to meet you and your beautiful place in person! I wish you the best always....
Post it Here!
I just learned of Jenna and Cold Antler Farm a few months ago. I started reading Barnheart and can't even believe how much it reflected how I felt over the past 10+ years. I have always had a garden but moving out near the Amish I felt more than a "tug" to get further into farming. I talked for years about getting chickens and I finally dove in. Not I'm longing to expand. The feelings I have are mirrored in Jenna's book Barnheart. Of all the books I have read recently, this is one I couldn't put down. My favorite quote from the book, "Homesteading, and gardening in particular, is the best way I know to be rich without spending a dime." You move from gardener to preserving your harvest and enjoy all the fruits of your labor during the winter months. You are rich beyond belief!
I just finished One Woman Farm and it was just wonderful. I could see everything she was describing and how she was feeling as I was reading along. It was almost like I was living it with her.
I'm on to my next book soon....as soon as I decide which one I want to read! :)
I'm a long-time customer and even longer-time online follower of Cold Antler Farm. The first chickens ever on my thriving poultry farm came from one of Jenna's first-ever workshops, in fact. When you buy from Cold Antler, you're not just buying a product, you're buying into a community. The support and encouragement are priceless, to say nothing of the actual education, which is always a day well spent!
Of all the things I've purchased, my farm logo remains my all-time favorite. Jenna listened and captured what I wanted while giving it a unique and timeless look, the essence of Hamletgrove Pastured Poultry. Click on over and see for yourself at www.facebook.com/hamletgrove. Then click right back here and become part of this!
Fiddle Camp was just what I needed to get started with a new instrument. The new hobby is the perfect antidote to winter blues. The day was amazing and getting to tour and meet Jenna was a dream come true. Go there and experience the wonder you've been reading about! Well worth it!
I comment because I care
& I am glad your there
:)
Hey Jenna,
I have never been to your farm since its so far from me and I also live on a farm too and getting away is hard. That is why I love your blog/vlogs and utube videos!!! I love to come and visit and see all the going ons at your farm and whats new and whats the same. I love visiting this way and have to say its always been a joy in my day. I don't comment much but know that I always cheer for you and cry with you from afar.
Your heart is one of goodness and kindness and I hope you continue to inspire,create,farm and live the life that you know that is right for you.
I hope someday to meet you in person but until then reading what you share is plenty good enough.Keep the fires burning and stay warm.
I was gifted a deer yesterday and I am processing it today. Thats what I love about the country and farming life. Sometimes a fellow farmer in this case my hay guy thought I should have his first deer of the season...........what a blessing that was. I hope you get one or maybe someone will give you their extra one.Sending positive thoughts your way.
I would just love to have the books. What a wonderful giveaway!!!
Linda
Hi Jenna, I'm Jane! I'm 15 years old from Ontario, Canada. I finished reading Made From Scratch a couple of months ago and wow! It was a complete and utter life changer. I live in the suburbs but have wanted to be a farmer since I was little. The older I got, the more doubts I had. But after reading your book I'm confident I can do it. I feel like Made From Scratch had equipped me with tools and given me that final push to ditch the city and head out the those wide open spaces that have been calling my name for as long as I can remember. Thank you Jenna!
Shine on sweet sister ~ I have barnheart ~ and I love that you get us!!! xx
Shine on sweet sister ~ I have barn~heart and I love that you get us!!xxx
WHOOT! looking forward to seeing the website,you do fantastic work.
I really enjoy Jenna and her message. I've read her article in Mother Earth news (best magazine ever) and Chick Days. Avid watcher of YouTube. One thing I like about her is that she is around my age. I meet many other homesteaders who are more mature, and that's awesome, but it is also encouraging to see someone do it so young, without retirement or being raised in the lifestyle. She's the best. I'll probably never get to cold antler farm, but i appreciate the message and would sure enjoy reading any of her books. And hey, send me that turkey feather. I'll wear it in my hair and send you a pic!
Hey Jenna! I subscribe to your vlogs. They are very informative and inspirational. I love seeing others who, like me, have the dream of homesteading. I'm in the beginning of my homestead. We have land and water, but are still working on housing, septic and electricity.
I would be honored to have any book and turkey feather you choose. Our homestead is in Florida and, as we're still working on our dream, a trip to New York (as cool as that would be) is not possible for us.
Thank you for what you do.
Feel free to check out my vlog Chris Homesteader.
-Chris
P'S the Gone_Buggy is an old blog I had when my son was into bug collecting.
I first read Chick Days. It became my favorite easy reference source. I was them given Barnheart as a gift not knowing Jenna was the author of both at first. That book got me off my arse and made a huge leap of faith to sell a neighborhood home for a 11 acre VT farm. Since I have attended goats & soap seminar at Cold Antler and have commisioned a logo for my hobby farm. It seems like I'm a bit of a "groupie" but I just truly appreciate Jenna's tenacity and love of this type of life. Also, she's funny. Funny is good.
I first read Chick Days. It became my favorite easy reference source. I was them given Barnheart as a gift not knowing Jenna was the author of both at first. That book got me off my arse and made a huge leap of faith to sell a neighborhood home for a 11 acre VT farm. Since I have attended goats & soap seminar at Cold Antler and have commisioned a logo for my hobby farm. It seems like I'm a bit of a "groupie" but I just truly appreciate Jenna's tenacity and love of this type of life. Also, she's funny. Funny is good.
Dear Jenna: I already have all of your books, and I absolutely love them! I would love to be able to see Cold Antler Farm, but I don't know that I could afford the trip. I have been following you ever since you lived in Sandpoint, Idaho (where I also used to live), and find your ventures super exciting! I hope and pray that you will be able to do well on CAF, and need nothing in return. With best wishes for you and all the critters - God Jul! Elaine.
We learned of Jenna and Cold Antler Farm through Jack Spirko and The Survival Podcast. We became instantly inspired by her blog posts. Living on suburban Long Island, NY we didn't think it would be possible to start living the homesteading lifestyle we wanted just yet. Not only have we recently installed a wood burning stove, (which is saving us HUNDREDS of dollars on heating oil in the winter) we also now have a flock of 6 laying hens! Rabbits or bees might be next years goal. We will be getting our second pig share this spring from CAF. It is by far the best pork we've ever had!. Antlerstock is a great time and highly recommended. We learned a lot and made some new friends.
Thanks, Jenna for all you do!
John and Andrea
Long Island, NY
Good. Idea.
I already own Chick Days and adore it! I love your writing style and your lifestyle even more! We are looking for property and would like to move within the next couple of years. Thanks for all you do!
Kim
Oh my gosh!!! I would love to win a signed copy of Made From Scratch the hardback!!! I finally own the paperback but it's the hardback that jumped off the shelf to me at the library and got me on my homesteading journey five years ago. And I just love the character the book has :)))
Before I read "Barnheart" I always thought the pining for a patch of land to grow food on was a pipe dream. Jenna has been my hero and able to completely and clearly communicate everything I was dreaming of. I read the book a few years ago and here we are having just bought three acres in the woods, finally able to plan. This is such a great beginning; Jenna and all the happenings at Cold Antler Farm are and have been a daily inspiration. We are about an hour or so away- hoping to get out to CAF some time soon! Thank you for being the embodiment of homestead hopes!
I very much enjoyed Chick Days! I read it before getting my first birds, it was great and inspiring. So much so that when my young teenage niece expressed interest in her own small flock, I ran out and got her her own copy of Chick Days! I now confidently raised from chicks a small flock of laying hens, and we raise 30 meat birds a year that we slaughter and process ourselves. The journey to being more self sufficient started with Made From Scratch for me, too. Thanks for sharing your world with us, I've learned so much right along with you, Jenna! Vonnie
Hi Jenna,
The first thing I would like to say is thank you for taking your precious time to spend on your vlog. It means a lot to me. I am a middle age Woman with a dream to have a nice piece of property to garden on. By watching your videos you have inspired me to follow the dream. By years end I am moving to Tennesse to start a new life. Unfortunately i won't be able to raise animals on my property but plan on using the land to grow many things. Maybe in the future to make some cash along the way. I so long to be my own BOSS and do what i love. I look forward to having your books in my ever growing library of self reliance so that I can pass the wealth of knowledge onto my grand babies. A feather would be a lovely gift as well. Thanks for being you and pls keep putting the videos out there.
Hope my comment before went out. New to this
I don't remember exactly when I first heard about Jenna and Cold Antler Farm, but I'm happy I did. I found a link on a website that showed me a list of her books and I think I ordered it. I was quickly hooked. Not only was there someone writing about a life I connected with but they were really living it. Jenna has shared the good, bad and the ugly of living on a farm, being self-employed and so much more. I've never gone to one of her workshops (bit of a distance, I live in Oregon, she's in New York) but I am pretty sure I'd not only learn a lot, but I'd make some good friends (that's just the way farm folks are). Her talent as a writer and graphic artist are pretty evident. Our local library ordered her books at my request, after they researched what people where saying about her books.
But there is so much more to Jenna. There is a determination that lies hidden, until she decides to do something. She doesn't just jump in blind, she finds out what she needs to do step-by-step, she prepares herself. She's learned how to ride, overcoming fears that would deter most people. She's built fences, delivered lambs, raised pigs for butcher, successfully raised and hunted with not one, but two hawks and so much more. She shares it all, from the happiness of success to the sadness of loss. She shares it to encourage others to not be afraid to start something new. She shares it so that we all know we're not weird for living a "farming" life, that there are others out there who feel like we do.
I do feel it's possible to develop a kinship with someone you've never met face-to-face, but I feel connected to Jenna. I follow her life, which is so similar to mine, on social media, books and her blog, and smile, cry and cheer right along with all the other people who've found her. It's an inspiration to me (and so many other people) and I'm grateful to her for sharing her life. Thank you Jenna! From Ruth @ Hope, Joy & Faith.
I have been watching CAF on YouTube for about a year, maybe longer. I started with watching every video from the start and keep up with each new one.
What I appreciate is how Jenna doesn't push any of her views onto you, she just shares. Additionally, her instructional/educational videos are well thought out.
I love that she's stalked by turkey's... and am a huge fan of dogs.
I initially bonded to her over our shared love of huskies.
I am currently house hunting... and am excited to start a garden :)
This vlog is extremely funny, and we'll worth sticking around for.
- Patience H-B
Hi from Oregon! I would love to see your website where you will post workshops on your farm. That way I can plan a visit in advance. I thinking of keeping a few goats. I have loved your books and you have totally inspired me to become a homesteader. I read your first book in Kansas and a second one in Oregon. I want to come visit!
Hi from Oregon! I would love to see your website where you will post workshops on your farm. That way I can plan a visit in advance. I thinking of keeping a few goats. I have loved your books and you have totally inspired me to become a homesteader. I read your first book in Kansas and a second one in Oregon. I want to come visit!
Hi Jenna,
Not sure if you ever get tired of hearing this, but you were the one that gave me the push to follow my dreams. About a year ago, I picked up your book "One Woman Farm", and the rest is history!
My husband and I packed up our young children and moved from the city, bought a country house complete with an apple orchard, and I quit my job to start working from home. All this within a year!! We have so many great plans for this place, but it is scary at times. When I have any doubts, I think of you and realize that yes it can be done. Cheers to you Jenna - my next homemade hard cider chug is for you! :)
Louise
This is just a suggestion, not a review: I think you should register Cold Antler Farm on Yelp, so people can leave reviews whenever they like, and you can respond there if you want to. You can link to your Yelp reviews from the home page of your new site. I know that when I'm thinking about hiring a business that I don't know anything about, I rely on Yelp to tell me how others have fared. Registering is free, and I think it could be very useful for you.
Hi Jenna,
It's me, the Fallout Widow from Twitter. My husband and I desperately want to do what you have done and give our family a life where we have our own land with some chickens and goats and a real garden, not just the patio tomatoes that I grow in vain every year (pretty sure the neighbor snitches them, ugh). Because buying a farmstead just isn't in the cards for us right now, I have taken our dreams in a different direction, with the hopes of getting to that point some day. I've gone back to school full time, while working full time in the hopes of a better job that will make our little farm more than just a series of cut out pictures and bookmarked web pages. I have read your books cover to cover numerous times and have given them as gifts to friends that need to take a step back and see what they are missing. A website would be great for helping me get your message out. I'm pulling for ya, we're all in this together.
Andrea R in the Finger Lakes Wine Country
Hi from NC! I love my animals and an learning to homestead within my town limits as much as I can. Between growing a garden and canning what I grow or buy at the local farmer's market, I am learning like crazy. I am trying my hardest to get back to the "old days" when it comes food, etc.
Don't do this. Our business is there and people can post whatever they want and you have no control over it. They can post lies and you can't make yelp take them down. The site is horrible. At least with Google or yahoo you can fight the posts and have them removed.
This was probably suggested by one of the minions.
I understand why Yelp is useful, but since anyone can post anything there - it won't be helpful. It would be great if people had to actually be at your farm and use their real name for a review, I would do that service in a second, but Yelp is a place where anyone can say they were here and say any make believe thing about my HOME. I don't want my address and stranger's thoughts about my home.
I started reading Jenna's blog many, many years ago, when she was still in Vermont in the cabin. I love her spunk. We don't have anything in common, but I love her spirit and can-do attitude. If nothing else, she has the heart of a warrior, working hard, playing hard, falling down and getting right back up again. I'll probably never meet her in person, but she shines through in her blog, and her vlogs. Go Jenna!
I tried barnheart.com and it just leads me back to the blog. What am I doing wrong?
I love your books, blog posts, vlogs, animals, passion and errrrything. I need some new books please! :)
Just over 2yrs ago, I was working in a big city in a tiny cubical. I enjoyed the work (at least when I was given something to do), but I found myself daydreaming and feeling lost. I felt completely disconnected, and stuck in the rat race going nowhere.
One fateful day, in an attempt to kill some time, I wandered into a small book store and found "Made from Scratch" by Jenna Woginrich. On the back cover was a picture of a girl with a big brimmed hat, and a bio that was very much like my own. I bought the book, and started reading it while holding back tears. I soon couldn't stop crying, and curled up in bed, desperately trying to read through heavy fog. Jenna articulated something that I couldn't find the words to explain - I wanted a farm.
I got through Made from Scratch in a weekend, and searched online for more of Jenna's books. I ordered "Barnheart" and "Cold Antler Farm", and found her blog...this blog.
I had no idea she also taught classes, so I jumped at the opportunity to meet this marvelous author and farmer and signed up for a weekend workshop.
I drove 8 hours to attend, getting lost along the way, but when I finally drove up to Jenna's home, she was busy setting up a small table with her wares. I rolled down my car window and said I was here for the workshop, and Jenna said, "Well, you're a little early, but you're welcome to hang out for a bit before the others get here.". She asked for my name, and when I told her her eyes grew huge and and she very heartily shook my hand, saying "It's great to finally meet you!". I knew I had made a friend.
Since then, I've visited Jenna many times, sometimes helping out at her farm, sometimes staying in Washington County helping out at our friends' farm. My life is now indistinguishable from what it was just 2 short years ago. Taking Jenna's advise to pursue my dreams NOW, I quit my job and moved out of the big city. I started my own business. I learned about heirloom seeds, and built 2 raised beds in my small backyard. I built a cold frame to extend the growing season. I started learning herbalism and natural remedies. I started canning again and learning how to preserve my own food. I volunteered at an organic farm for a week. I learned archery. I researched hearty chicken breeds and heritage sheep. I traded in my flats and dresses for boots and old sweaters.
I'm poorer these days than I was just a short time ago, but much happier because I now have wonderful friends like Jenna in my life. Her beautiful writing, her generosity and kindness, and her unabashedly honest approach has made me believe that owning a farm of my own is indeed possible.
Jenna's a part of my family now, and if it wasn't for her, I'd still be lost in a grey cubical wishing for something more.
I have followed Jenna's blog from the beginning, read all of her books and subscribe to her YouTube channel. She is one of the most honest and funniest people I have ever encountered.
If it wasn't for Jenna sharing all of her adventures from Cold Antler Farm, I wouldn't be writing this from my recently purchased 2.49 acres. Yup, this chick had Barnheart, real bad and thanks to this young woman, I did something about it. Thank you, Jenna.
I am also the owner of a custom logo designed by Jenna and every time I look at it or show it to someone, my heart swells with pride.
Jenna, I adore your book "Made From Scratch". You helped me realize what I want from my life- you showed me what was missing. Thank you for that! Now I keep up with you online through your blog, Facebook, and YouTube. I've learned so much from you, even though I've never met you in person. You've touched my life in a special way, a way that I can't seem to describe. Just know that I am grateful for you and admire your work. Thank you for getting me on the right path!
I love your vlog, and blog post!!!
I love your youtube channel!!!!
I love your youtube channel!
I love your Youtube channel!
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What is "one of the minions"? Who are the minions? I think Yelp is very useful, but I certainly understand Jenna's hesitation, since her business is also her home address. Still, I don't think that my suggestion was so off-the-wall to spark finger-pointing and conspiracy theories. I can assure you that, as far as I know, I'm minion-free.
I love your videos and I'm making concrete beekeeping plans because you've inspired me:)
Hi Jenna from GA!
I've enjoyed your channel and blog for a while now.I read your "Made from Scratch" book. Although most of it I've done most of it over the years, it is a good read. Your humor is terrific.
There are so few opportunities for women to mentor other women on occupations that traditionally have been male roles, especially that of husbandry (I'm not talking marriage, but the car of farm animals). Reading your books, your blogs and watching your videos, while mostly very positive, do include some of the trials and tribulations of being a single woman homesteader. But at every opportunity, Jenna has shown us the stuff that women are made of, tenacity, and tenderness. Her love for her animals that give her food for the winter, the chickens that give her eggs, the ground that provides her with vegetables..show us the abundance of nature being able to provide just what we need. In this day and age, it's hard to fathom a home without a tv in every room, and the spontaneity of seeing something advertised and not just running to the store to get it. It's really helped me understand the difference between what I want and what I really need. Thanks Jenna!
I've been watching your videos for a while now. I was born and raised in two different metropolitan cities, and am still in NYC so I can be close to my family while I'm finishing my second degree. I'm back in school becoming a nutritionist, and have had the call and desire to learn about and in the future become a homesteader. Part of that learning has been your blog/vlog. You inspire me, both as a woman of the same age who also left behind a corporate job to pursue your dream life, but you're craftsy like me! I've learned about spinning wool, animal husbandry, and how you take care of the earth that feeds you. I continue to be in awe of how brave you are and the beautiful life you lead. I love your attitude and how hard you work, your passion. Sending some kudos over to you from the wretched big apple. Hopefully I can one day life a purer life, like you!
Dear Jenna,
I want to say that after watching various YouTube videos on homesteading, yours by far outweigh in educating me on what it takes to be a homesteader. You have helped me overcome some of my fears of raising meat chickens and rabbits to what it takes to handle daily chores on the worst wintery days. I absolutely love and look forward to your vlogs and ready your Barnheart blogs all the time. I am preparing myself to become a homesteader and will be doing so in the very near future. I live in NJ, and would absolutely love to take the 4+ hour trip to come meet you and learn from you. You have so much to offer which only perfected by your mistakes, which you gladly share and I am so grateful for that. I would be absolutely humbled by receiving any of your books and yes, I would love to have a turkey feather I can frame! You have not only inspired me to find that homesteader in me, but not to just dream about it -- to actually do it. Thank you Jenna for all you share and I would absolutely love the opportunity to come up to see you, learn from you and forever cherish the knowledge you have to offer. If I haven't said it befoe, THANK YOU!! :-) "Country Karen"
Ive been a reader since 2008 ever since I bought made from scratch and found your website in the back of the book. Ive followed your vlogs since the beginning, I follow you on facebook. I think what I like about you most is that your real. You dont shoe us the photoshopped freshly painted red barn and white picket fence far. You show us the blood soaked fox wrecked flooded shit stained farm and I love it! I dont love that you have really hard days I love that you are so stubborn and resilliant. It makes me realize that im not doing it wrong. I have dreams of making it to an indie day some day (if I ever stop having babies). Until then ive never met you but I love you and your farm! Keep being amazingly honest!
Hi Jenna!
I love One Woman Farm and am rereading it for the third time right now! I'm a little too far to visit, but I love your work and reading about everything on the Farm.
My name is Asia, I'm 17, I have eight sassy chickens, and I love your farming style.
A little while ago I read your article in Taproot magazine (the one about the goats and the invisible light) and let's just say I loved it. At the time I had recently discovered that farming/permaculture was exactly what I wanted for myself and finding your article made me feel like it was possible. Your article was a "visible light" for me.
Fast forward to now. I was surfing youtube to find some "visible light" and I stumbled across your videos. (I had no idea you were on youtube by the way) And long story short in one of your awesome vids I saw a barn that looked way to familiar. I remembered seeing it somewhere... I started flipping through my Taproot mag and low and behold there was you! Your barn! Your farm!
I found your videos only a few days ago and I'm totally hooked! Everything you post/write is super helpful and I always look forward to your postings. :)
- Asia
I can't remember what year it was that I came across the Cold Antler Farm blog, but I do remember it was related to an internet search about sheep, and went to a post about the Scottish Blackface ewes lambing, at least 5 years ago. Now I check in every day.
I started with reading Made from Scratch, and have been excited to get each book as it has come out, and with several like minded friends, I have also really enjoyed giving Jenna's books as gifts, especially as she will sign them for you if purchased from her local independent bookstore Battenkill Books - so supporting 2 small businesses at the same time.
I remember one friend crying when I handed her a housewarming gift - a copy of Barnheart, on the day she moved to her small farm - in it Jenna had copied a quote from an email my friend had sent me 3 years previously - along the lines of 'one day we will have our land, to plant a garden and get some chickens and sheep' it was very emotional - and all the more special as a personalized gift.
As other people have commented I like the reality of the blog, eg it's not all cute baby lambs - its also adult sheep, with thick winter fleece, who barge through electric fencing. Her summary video of the first year at Cold Antler, with all it's highs and lows has me getting emotional everytime.
Other commenters have mentioned this 'true to life' aspect already, so I'll mention something else. I really appreciate Jenna's great recommendations, and 'just go for it' encouragement. Due to this we now have 4 chickens, a Dulcimer which I learnt how to play through a webinar she posted for free, a large vegetable garden, homemade cold frames - and a new appreciation for kale! I have just joined my local traditional archery club.
I have followed her suggestions for other great blogs, like Jon Katz - Bedlam Farm, Tara & Tyler over at Going Slowly, Eli & Kim at R'Eisen Shine Farm.
Also some amazing documentaries, new music and books have come into my life - and been forwarded onto friends and family due to being mentioned here on the blog, including Greenhorns, Big Easy Express, Shovels and Rope, X Ambassadors. New podcasts too.
I was lucky enough to visit the farm and meet Jenna - before Indie Days existed, my husband and I were on our first road trip round VT, NH and her portion of NY a few years ago, and arrived just as she had received her first copy of the artwork for One Woman Farm for review. There's another thing - the books are not just a repeat of the same stuff, Chick Days is mainly color photography, One Woman Farm has wonderful illustrations, Cold Antler Farm - have you seen the trailer? Genius - can you name any other book you have purchased because you watched a mini film about it?
Finally I want to mention allowing comments on the blog - and not letting this dictate the content of the posts. On the one hand I appreciate it because, for example if Jenna posts a request to recommend fave homesteading books, or podcasts I find out all kinds of new things from other commenters. I also sometimes cringe at how cruel and bossy people can be when they are 'invisible' behind their computer or phone - if I had some of those directed at me I would want to crawl into a hole and hide, block all comments, perhaps be selective and only approve the positive ones to appear, or spend all day being angry and agitated justifying myself in replies to negativity. Instead, she handles it with responses where she feels appropriate, and moves onto the next thing.
Oh! I forgot to mention the great and relevant sponsors of the blog, and of course the amazing giveaways.
This is a great idea, Jenna, hope it brings lots of new people over to the new 'showcase' site, subscribing to your Youtube videos and reading the blog.
I've been watching your videos for a while now and I thoroughly enjoy them. I grew up on a small farm and have been trying to get back to it basically ever since I left. It's really inspiring to watch you living the dream. I currently live in town, and in the sorta area where I'm the weird neighbor growing tomatoes in buckets on my deck, researching chicken breeds (and torturing my poor coworkers talking about it all the time), and keeping sour dough starters hanging around. It's very nice sometimes to escape onto the internet and watch someone like you and know I'm not alone or crazy for dreaming about spending my days raising animals and gardening to feed myself. And that I'm not the only person who has the desire to make my own bread, cheese, canned goods and yarn (even though I'm the only one I've meet in real life so far). And thank you for being my proof to my husband, at times, that I am not the only crazy person who doesn't want to work in an office, or who doesn't care how much money I have, and who just wants a simpler life and to connect with real people about real things. Please keep being you and giving the rest of us hope that one day maybe we will get the life we are dreaming of too.
I've been watching your videos for a while now and I thoroughly enjoy them. I grew up on a small farm and have been trying to get back to it basically ever since I left. It's really inspiring to watch you living the dream. I currently live in town, and in the sorta area where I'm the weird neighbor growing tomatoes in buckets on my deck, researching chicken breeds (and torturing my poor coworkers talking about it all the time), and keeping sour dough starters hanging around. It's very nice sometimes to escape onto the internet and watch someone like you and know I'm not alone or crazy for dreaming about spending my days raising animals and gardening to feed myself. And that I'm not the only person who has the desire to make my own bread, cheese, canned goods and yarn (even though I'm the only one I've meet in real life so far). And thank you for being my proof to my husband, at times, that I am not the only crazy person who doesn't want to work in an office, or who doesn't care how much money I have, and who just wants a simpler life and to connect with real people about real things. Please keep being you and giving the rest of us hope that one day maybe we will get the life we are dreaming of too.
I was at the library one day and saw your book Barnheart. I checked it out and totally fell in love with it, you were describing me. I was excited to find out you had other books as well and I've read them all twice. I love reading your blog posts and watching your vlogs. I love how you inspire and encourage people to follow their dreams. You inspired me to start a small garden this past spring!
My comment is Unknown on Dec. 7 Sorry!
Hey Jenna,
I first became aware of you when I read Made From Scratch a few years ago. I enjoyed it, discovered your blog and a few months ago you made an amazing logo for my Etsy shop.
I'd recommend your design skills to anyone looking to create a visual image to go along with their business. Your prices are reasonable, your time frame is reasonable and your communication is excellent during the design process. Thank you!
Hi Jenna,
I found your blog after reading Made from Scratch, as many others have. I've been following your blog ever since. And I think that was about the time we got our first chickens. Now it's been many years of raising chickens for meat and eggs (250 this last season!), and we've added sheep this year as well. As you can see from everyone else's comments, we're rooting for you and can certainly relate. Thanks for writing, keeping this space fresh and honest - it really is an inspiration. I think the new audience you're pulling from the vlogs is great as well. Keep it up!
Hi Jenna!!!!
I read your book "One Woman Farm" two years ago when I first started dreaming of homesteading, and was hooked immediately! Since then I have watched your vlogs, read your blogs, and read your other books. I am proud to say that I am just a short time away from finally moving to my very own homestead! You have inspired me to go after my dream of self-sustainability and plan to continue to follow you as I make my transition. Thank you again for all the inspiration, advise and reassurance that I can do this!
Hi Jenna, I recently found your channel and your blog, as I'm working on become a homesteader myself. Your videos are inspirational and they keep me optimistic as I try to make this dream a reality. You keep things lighthearted while giving viable information for those of us following this path. Thank you so much for your contribution on what you have to say and contribute. I know I'll definitely continue to be a avid follower.
Hi Jenna, I discovered your book "One Woman Farm" at our local library. I thoroughly enjoyed reading it! I then found your Youtube channel and blog. We bought our little farm a little over a year ago and love getting inspired by your experiences!
I have been reading Jenna's blog since 2011, and have watched all her youtube videos. She has inspired me to not give up on my dreams, even though they are not the same as hers. One cat and one dog are enough for me to handle, animal wise. Yet, I still would love a farm, no matter how big or small. Her writing is by far some of the best I have ever read. For that reason, I supported her to branch out and write a novel. She has a way to turn a phrase that envelopes the readers into her world, and compels you to follow along. Jenna is full of imagination, hard work, sensible logic, and magically never boring. Her writing is what kept me coming back to read her blog everyday. Her photo bombing turkeys, horse and cart rides down a country road, and other inventive vlogs are more entertaining then most modern movies. Jenna's talent is treasure to all that know her through her creative outlets.
https://jacquidenomme.wordpress.com/2013/10/29/how-i-spent-my-fall-vacation-part-4-pigs-up-close-and-personal/
Jenna, 38 lines down from the start of this blog post I go into quite a bit of detail about my 'Indie Days' visit a few years ago. Feel free to quote me if you find anything useful in my writings. Was pretty fun to re-read this. Took me back to a wonderful few days!
Jacqui
Oh my gosh! A chance to win 3 of your books! That would be fabulous! I started reading your blog after finding your book, Made from Scratch, at the library. I read all that our local library had. I don't have a farm, but I live in the country on an old farm and enjoy reading about your ideas on self-sustainability. My husband and I have three huge gardens that feed us all winter (as well as many friends, family members and strangers!) I go to your blog on days at work when I have time during lunch and want a little inspiration. I always get super inspired! BJo
Oh my gosh! A chance to win 3 of your books - that would be fabulous! I found Made From Scratch at the library and read all that I could find of your work! I started reading your blog posts and recommended it to my daughter-in-law who homesteads in Oregon. I don't own a farm, but I do live in the country and grown all my own vegetables and harvest most of the fruit we eat. I often turn to your blog at work during my lunch break just to get re-inspired! Thank you for sharing your life!
I purchased a logo for my cottage industry and etsy page. Jenna's designs were professional and thoughtful, she made changes for me very quickly, and I like them so much I ended up buying two different designs. I am a book buyer for a large library system in the pacific northwest and have bought, and rebought due to demand, all of Jenna's books for our library system. I recommend her books often to people with the farm dream and also to people who just want a couple of city chickens.
Hey Jenna, I haven't been to any events, although I'd love to, but it'd be a long drive from South Florida. Before I moved on to my 5 acres some of the books I kept on my nightstand were yours. Your writing awesome, and somehow, you manage to write about the intangible awesomeness that is chasing the homesteading dream. I had a lot of books with detailed information regarding specific animals, plants, processes, etc. but there are few books that give inspiration to actually pursue what the reference books teach. The blog and vlog really add dimension, depth and grit. I know you get a lot of shit being a public figure, but thank you for sharing your craft with the rest of us.
Just curious, Saw your daily video about just do itdont be scared of the risks. dont wait around for the right time. how many acres is cold antler farm? Weve been looking for places but we don't know what size we should be looking for to have a similar set up as yours with various types of animals. thanks, cari
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We, at Hatton's Feathered Nest, love your blog! We moved out into the country, and in a effort to be more self sustaining, started a farm in 2014. We currently have 18 chickens, 5 goats, 3 cats and 3 dogs. We did have 2 turkeys, but we slaughtered them both for Thanksgiving. Our big ole' tom Butterball tipped the scales at 40 pounds! Your advice on here is invaluable. Keep up the good work! We look forward to more of your videos, information and insight.
Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!!!
Stephanie Hatton
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