It’s been 248 years since America gained full independence from Britain. Like many others, we always enjoy celebrating the 4th of July with family and friends. It’s on these days that we once again realize how fortunate we are to experience true freedom. Unfortunately, for many others around the world, this is not the case.

In this episode, we get a bit more personal, with Annette sharing how her parents lost their freedom in Cuba and years later gained it again when they moved to the USA. Their story has significantly impacted our lives and how we perceive and value freedom, even in the smallest things, such as being able to grow our own food.

But even though we are free to do many things, we sometimes take it all for granted or still feel “trapped.” Come join us as we share a few thoughts on ways to truly enjoy freedom, which you are in total control of.

We also love to hear from you! Ask us anything about this topic. And if you don’t mind, we will share and discuss it anonymously on this podcast with fellow listeners! Text your question or message to (310) 879-8441.

If you like this episode and know of someone who needs to hear it, help us get this message out to improve people’s personal lives and foster healthy relationships!

Resources:

1. Order Annette’s new book - Simple Country Living - From how to start a garden to garden-to-table recipes, tips, and family activities. You’ll reduce waste, save money, harness new skills, and be able to live the “simple country life” no matter where you live.
2. Subscribe to Azure Farm’s newsletter for weekly inspiration, tips, informative blogs, recipes, and more!
3. Visit our website - Azure Farm - for all things concerning farm, home, gardening, and the simple life.
4. Follow Annette on Instagram at Azure Farm for your daily inspiration.
5. Follow Jared on Instagram at Jared Thurmon.

Sign up for Jared's newsletter

to level up your health.

Here’s a few links to some things we’re passionate about:

Annette’s new book - Simple Country Living

https://www.amazon.com/Simple-Country-Living-Techniques-Recipes/dp/0760385408

For our Workshops and How-to series - LiveHomeGrown.com

Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/azure-farm/id1463340821

Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/4eieYkvDungVAwkcHewo89?si=j0_fZgcQSZq2e3lHAGFP0Q

Web - https://www.azurefarm.com and HappyFarmily.com

Follow along on IG or TikTok - @azurefarm

Is sunlight your new best friend or a hidden danger? After an experiment during a golf trip, Jared was even more convinced that sunshine may not be the enemy we all think it is…. In this episode, we dive deep into the wonderful role of sunlight in our health and well-being.

We share why proper sun exposure can be more beneficial than we’ve been led to believe, offering many benefits.

We’ll also discuss practical tips for maximizing the benefits of sunlight, such as avoiding sunscreen (yup, you read that right) and sunglasses at certain times to let your body produce essential hormones and vitamins naturally.

Whether you’re a sun worshipper or a shade seeker, this episode will shed light on the surprising advantages of getting some rays!

We also love to hear from you! Ask us anything about this topic. And if you don’t mind, we will share and discuss it anonymously on this podcast with fellow listeners! Text your question or message to (310) 879-8441.

If you like this episode and know of someone who needs to hear it, help us get this message out to improve people’s personal lives and foster healthy relationships!

Resources:

1. Sunlight - A vital book on the relationship of sunlight to human health by Dr Zain Kime
2. Order Annette’s new book - Simple Country Living - From how to start a garden to garden-to-table recipes, tips, and family activities. You’ll reduce waste, save money, harness new skills, and be able to live the “simple country life” no matter where you live.
3. Subscribe to Azure Farm’s newsletter for weekly inspiration, tips, informative blogs, recipes, and more!
4. Visit our website - Azure Farm - for all things concerning farm, home, gardening, and the simple life.
5. Follow Annette on Instagram at Azure Farm for your daily inspiration.
6. Follow Jared on Instagram at Jared Thurmon.
7. Sign up for Jared's newsletter to level up your health.

Here’s a few links to some things we’re passionate about:

Annette’s new book - Simple Country Living

https://www.amazon.com/Simple-Country-Living-Techniques-Recipes/dp/0760385408

For our Workshops and How-to series - LiveHomeGrown.com

Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/azure-farm/id1463340821

Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/4eieYkvDungVAwkcHewo89?si=j0_fZgcQSZq2e3lHAGFP0Q

Web - https://www.azurefarm.com and HappyFarmily.com

Follow along on IG or TikTok - @azurefarm

Last month, we talked about the secrets (or not) of being a supermom. This time, it’s the dad’s turn!

Being a dad is like stepping into the ultimate superhero role. Your kids see you as the one who can fix anything and knows everything. While the roles of men and women have been evolving, allowing men to play a bigger part in raising their kids, being a super dad involves much more than just showing up.

Join us for a fun and insightful chat as Jared shares his experiences as a dad to our wonderful girl, Ava. This episode is not just about stories, but also about practical tips that you can apply in your own fatherhood journey.

Whether you're a new dad, a seasoned pro, or somewhere in between, this episode offers valuable insights to help you embrace your role as a superhero in your children's eyes.

We also love to hear from you! Ask us anything about this topic. And if you don’t mind, we will share and discuss it anonymously on this podcast with fellow listeners! Text your question or message to (310) 879-8441.

If you like this episode and know of someone who needs to hear it, help us get this message out to improve people’s personal lives and foster healthy relationships!

Resources:

1. Order Annette’s new book - Simple Country Living - From how to start a garden to garden-to-table recipes, tips, and family activities. You’ll reduce waste, save money, harness new skills, and be able to live the “simple country life” no matter where you live.
2. Subscribe to Azure Farm’s newsletter for weekly inspiration, tips, informative blogs, recipes, and more!
3. Visit our website - Azure Farm - for all things concerning farm, home, gardening, and the simple life.
4. Follow Annette on Instagram at Azure Farm for your daily inspiration.
5. Follow Jared on Instagram at Jared Thurmon.

Sign up for Jared's newsletter

to level up your health.

Here’s a few links to some things we’re passionate about:

Annette’s new book - Simple Country Living

https://www.amazon.com/Simple-Country-Living-Techniques-Recipes/dp/0760385408

For our Workshops and How-to series - LiveHomeGrown.com

Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/azure-farm/id1463340821

Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/4eieYkvDungVAwkcHewo89?si=j0_fZgcQSZq2e3lHAGFP0Q

Web - https://www.azurefarm.com and HappyFarmily.com

Follow along on IG or TikTok - @azurefarm

Filled with delicious food, family time, and fun activities like hiking, Saturdays, aka Sabbaths, were the norm in both our families. Today, we continue this tradition with our daughter, emphasizing the importance of disconnecting from our hectic lives. The joy, peace, and strength we gain from observing the Sabbath prepare us to face the upcoming week with renewed vigor.

In this episode, we delve into how the Sabbath has enriched our lives and the scientifically proven benefits of treating the Sabbath as a weekly vacation. Rigorous studies show that regular downtime significantly reduces stress, lowers cortisol levels, and improves mood, among other health benefits. All the more reason to rest, don't you think?!

There’s also a fascinating connection between Sabbath and longevity, as evident in Loma Linda, California, a Blue Zone where residents live significantly longer and happier lives.

Come join us as we share tips on how to maximize the Sabbath's benefits to have a true day of rest and reflection, enriching our lives and potentially extending them.

We also love to hear from you! Ask us anything about this topic. And if you don’t mind, we will share and discuss it anonymously on this podcast with fellow listeners! Text your question or message to (310) 879-8441.

If you like this episode and know of someone who needs to hear it, help us get this message out to improve people’s personal lives and foster healthy relationships!

Resources:

1. Order Annette’s new book - Simple Country Living - From how to start a garden to garden-to-table recipes, tips, and family activities. You’ll reduce waste, save money, harness new skills, and be able to live the “simple country life” no matter where you live.
2. Subscribe to Azure Farm’s newsletter for weekly inspiration, tips, informative blogs, recipes, and more!
3. Visit our website - Azure Farm - for all things concerning farm, home, gardening, and the simple life.
4. Follow Annette on Instagram at Azure Farm for your daily inspiration.
5. Follow Jared on Instagram at Jared Thurmon.

Sign up for Jared's newsletter

to level up your health.

Here’s a few links to some things we’re passionate about:

Annette’s new book - Simple Country Living

https://www.amazon.com/Simple-Country-Living-Techniques-Recipes/dp/0760385408

For our Workshops and How-to series - LiveHomeGrown.com

Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/azure-farm/id1463340821

Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/4eieYkvDungVAwkcHewo89?si=j0_fZgcQSZq2e3lHAGFP0Q

Web - https://www.azurefarm.com and HappyFarmily.com

Follow along on IG or TikTok - @azurefarm

It’s "Blooming Science!" In this episode, we dive into the fascinating world of flowers and their remarkable ability to enhance our well-being and emotions. Whether you're a flower enthusiast or just curious about how nature can improve your day-to-day life, you're in the right place.

Imagine walking into a room and feeling an instant lift in your spirits just because of a beautiful bouquet—there’s actual science behind that magical moment, friend. From boosting your mood to sparking creativity, flowers have a powerful impact on our lives.

Whether it’s the bouquet that made your day, the garden that brings you peace, or the office plant that keeps you inspired, flowers and their different colors play a unique role.

So, join us as we share how adding a little bit of floral magic to your surroundings can transform your mood and well-being!

We also love to hear from you! Ask us anything about this topic. And if you don’t mind, we will share and discuss it anonymously on this podcast with fellow listeners! Text your question or message to (310) 879-8441.

If you like this episode and know of someone who needs to hear it, help us get this message out to improve people’s personal lives and foster healthy relationships!

Resources:

1. Order Annette’s new book - Simple Country Living - From how to start a garden to garden-to-table recipes, tips, and family activities. You’ll reduce waste, save money, harness new skills, and be able to live the “simple country life” no matter where you live.
2. Learn how to grow and care for beautiful flowers with these informative blogs.
3. Subscribe to Azure Farm’s newsletter for weekly inspiration, tips, informative blogs, recipes, and more!
4. Visit our website - Azure Farm - for all things concerning farm, home, gardening, and the simple life.
5. Follow Annette on Instagram at Azure Farm for your daily inspiration.
6. Follow Jared on Instagram at Jared Thurmon.

Sign up for Jared's newsletter

to level up your health.

Here’s a few links to some things we’re passionate about:

Annette’s new book - Simple Country Living

https://www.amazon.com/Simple-Country-Living-Techniques-Recipes/dp/0760385408

For our Workshops and How-to series - LiveHomeGrown.com

Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/azure-farm/id1463340821

Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/4eieYkvDungVAwkcHewo89?si=j0_fZgcQSZq2e3lHAGFP0Q

Web - https://www.azurefarm.com and HappyFarmily.com

Follow along on IG or TikTok - @azurefarm

Have you ever tasted something as delicious as a strawberry milkshake made with real, freshly plucked, juicy, in-season strawberries?? Well, let us tell you, friend, it is SO GOOD.

After a visit to a strawberry farm, Jared and Ava decided to turn fresh strawberries into the best milkshakes we've ever tasted! This experience once again reminded us of the profound difference in taste and quality when enjoying in-season produce.

Moving to the countryside transformed our lifestyle and diet, inspiring us to grow our own veggies and embrace local, seasonal foods. Seasonal eating means enjoying fruits and vegetables at their peak nutritional value and flavor, harvested just as nature intended.

In this episode, we explore the numerous benefits of eating seasonally, from fresher and more nutritious food to cost savings, environmental advantages, and supporting local farmers. Learn practical tips on how to source local produce, even if you live in the city, and discover ways to preserve your favorite seasonal fruits and veggies to enjoy all year round.

Join us as we delve into the joys and benefits of eating with the seasons and get inspired to make delicious, nutritious choices that align with nature's rhythm!

We also love to hear from you! Ask us anything about this topic. And if you don’t mind, we will share and discuss it anonymously on this podcast with fellow listeners! Text your question or message to (310) 879-8441.

If you like this episode and know of someone who needs to hear it, help us get this message out to improve people’s personal lives and foster healthy relationships!

Resources:

1. Order Annette’s new book - Simple Country Living - From how to start a garden to garden-to-table recipes, tips, and family activities. You’ll reduce waste, save money, harness new skills, and be able to live the “simple country life” no matter where you live.
2. Seasonal produce lists for all 12 months of the year.
3. Subscribe to Azure Farm’s newsletter for weekly inspiration, tips, informative blogs, recipes, and more!
4. Visit our website - Azure Farm - for all things concerning farm, home, gardening, and the simple life.
5. Follow Annette on Instagram at Azure Farm for your daily inspiration.
6. Follow Jared on Instagram at Jared Thurmon.

Sign up for Jared's newsletter

to level up your health.

Here’s a few links to some things we’re passionate about:

Annette’s new book - Simple Country Living

https://www.amazon.com/Simple-Country-Living-Techniques-Recipes/dp/0760385408

For our Workshops and How-to series - LiveHomeGrown.com

Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/azure-farm/id1463340821

Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/4eieYkvDungVAwkcHewo89?si=j0_fZgcQSZq2e3lHAGFP0Q

Web - https://www.azurefarm.com and HappyFarmily.com

Follow along on IG or TikTok - @azurefarm

85% of Americans struggle with self-doubt, the feeling that they don't feel enough about some aspect of their lives or themselves. Are you part of this 85%? Do you have an inner critical voice that holds you back or makes you believe you are not good enough? We sure do!

In this podcast episode, we journey into the depths of self-criticism, a challenge that impacts the lives of so many, including us. We'll explore how self-doubt and anxiety can cast a shadow over our mental and physical well-being.

We share our personal stories of wrestling with our inner critics and how, through vulnerability and introspection, we discovered the toxic nature of this self-doubt and the pivotal step of unmasking its origins to reclaim control over our lives.

Together, we'll uncover practical strategies for liberation—embracing intentional living, fostering gratitude, and cultivating forgiveness. These tools have been game-changers in our journey of silencing the inner critic and finding a path to fulfillment and joy.

We also love to hear from you! Ask us anything about this topic. And if you don’t mind, we will share and discuss it anonymously on this podcast with fellow listeners! Text your question or message to (310) 879-8441.

If you like this episode and know of someone who needs to hear it, help us get this message out to improve people’s personal lives and foster healthy relationships!

Resources:

1. Order Annette’s new book - Simple Country Living - From how to start a garden to garden-to-table recipes, tips, and family activities. You’ll reduce waste, save money, harness new skills, and be able to live the “simple country life” no matter where you live.
2. Subscribe to Azure Farm’s newsletter for weekly inspiration, tips, informative blogs, recipes, and more!
3. Visit our website - Azure Farm - for all things concerning farm, home, gardening, and the simple life.
4. Follow Annette on Instagram at Azure Farm for your daily inspiration.
5. Follow Jared on Instagram at Jared Thurmon.

Sign up for Jared's newsletter

to level up your health.

Here’s a few links to some things we’re passionate about:

Annette’s new book - Simple Country Living

https://www.amazon.com/Simple-Country-Living-Techniques-Recipes/dp/0760385408

For our Workshops and How-to series - LiveHomeGrown.com

Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/azure-farm/id1463340821

Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/4eieYkvDungVAwkcHewo89?si=j0_fZgcQSZq2e3lHAGFP0Q

Web - https://www.azurefarm.com and HappyFarmily.com

Follow along on IG or TikTok - @azurefarm

Let’s talk about the myth of the Supermom. You know, that idea of a mother who effortlessly manages to juggle work, family, and home with perfection, never showing a hint of stress or fatigue. But let's be real, can any of us truly answer yes to all those criteria?

The truth is, there's no such thing as a superhero mother. No Supermom. Sure, we might see glimpses of this ideal in movies, fairy tales, or on social media, but it's just that—a fleeting image, not reality.

So, what does it take to be a "Supermom" in the real world? Join us in this episode as we share our thoughts on being the best mom you can be and busting the myth of being a supermom.

We also love to hear from you! Ask us anything about this topic. And if you don’t mind, we will share and discuss it anonymously on this podcast with fellow listeners! Text your question or message to (310) 879-8441.

If you like this episode and know of someone who needs to hear it, help us get this message out to improve people’s personal lives and foster healthy relationships!

Resources:

1. Article by Jared - The Book of Immortal Fame
2. Order Annette’s new book - Simple Country Living - From how to start a garden to garden-to-table recipes, tips, and family activities. You’ll reduce waste, save money, harness new skills, and be able to live the “simple country life” no matter where you live.
3. Subscribe to Azure Farm’s newsletter for weekly inspiration, tips, informative blogs, recipes, and more!
4. Visit our website - Azure Farm - for all things concerning farm, home, gardening, and the simple life.
5. Follow Annette on Instagram at Azure Farm for your daily inspiration.
6. Follow Jared on Instagram at Jared Thurmon.
7. Sign up for Jared's newsletter to level up your health.

Here’s a few links to some things we’re passionate about:

Annette’s new book - Simple Country Living

https://www.amazon.com/Simple-Country-Living-Techniques-Recipes/dp/0760385408

For our Workshops and How-to series - LiveHomeGrown.com

Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/azure-farm/id1463340821

Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/4eieYkvDungVAwkcHewo89?si=j0_fZgcQSZq2e3lHAGFP0Q

Web - https://www.azurefarm.com and HappyFarmily.com

Follow along on IG or TikTok - @azurefarm