How I make a living - affording my country cottage life

In this video I wanted to share a little about how I make a living in the countryside.
Many in my town work in the forest service, as contractors, tourism, teachers, and in labor intensive jobs. There are also a growing number of remote workers, especially after last year. I enjoy observing the different types of lifestyles and careers in this area, and am glad to share a little bit about my own 🤍

I’m so happy to share that my book - The Cottage Fairy Companion - is now available for pre-order!

Only business related e-mails please, I see all my YouTube comments so feel free to ask your questions there and I will answer if I am able 🙏

(Get a month free with my referral code)

This is a bit of my story, not advice on how to build a career. Each set of circumstances is unique, but I like to believe that within reasonable boundaries, options are rarely quite as limited as we may think (if we think long-term). I built my work life by diversifying and working many jobs that were not ideal so that I could save for the future. I am so grateful that I got the opportunity to have my work noticed online to help support my offline career. Best wishes to you.

[TheCottageFairy]

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.

[barthmerrill]

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

[marthachabinsky]

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

[rebekahjoytaylor]

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

[KKinda]

"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.

[Marant]

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.

[cynthiapate]

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.

[mabittencourt]

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!

[AshleyRobjohns]

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

[bellamia]

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.

[naturewithmarusa]

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 ❤️

[annishilcock]

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.

[joshfrench]

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

[Elizabeth-wrmn]

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.

[iamweebie]

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.

[ljbertini]

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. ❤️

[SpiritDwellSacred]

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.

[nons]

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

[jt]

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.

[ChefEarthenware]

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