So. I’ve started a YouTube channel.
Just saying that feels weird, and scary. I’ve always hated being filmed, so taking videos of myself and then posting them on the internet is the last thing I ever thought I’d do. But then I began to notice just how much I learn from and appreciate YouTube videos. I turn to home YouTubers for everything from cheesemaking to random skill-acquisition like cake decorating, cutting up a whole chicken, and instant pot usage to Scrivener and (of course) YouTube tutorials. My husband refers to Youtube for building and auto mechanics, and YouTube is my younger son’s go-to for arduino and computer programming tutorials.
And then I was like, hang on a sec. I know how to do (some) things and I love to talk to people and I don’t want to go anywhere. Maybe I should try YouTube?
It felt a little nuts — still does — but I plunged in, burying myself up to my eyeballs in iMovie and Snappa. I knocked out a few videos, learning how to use an iPhone for video (it has more than one camera!) and download video and make thumbnails as I went. It was surprising how quickly I grew accustomed to talking to a camera. Finally, I’m feel comfortable enough to share the videos.
Scratch that. I’m not comfortable at all. I’m so (embarrassingly) edgy and insecure and nervous that I have to give myself frequent pep talks. Get over yourself, Jennifer, I say. What’s the big deal? As long as you’re having fun, go for it.
So I am — going for it and having fun, all while trying to get over myself. (It’s complicated.)
What’s my end goal? I’m not sure. Mostly, I just want to talk about the random and/or obscure things that make me happy, like cheesemaking and cooking and Who Knows What All. Maybe, if I’m lucky, people will talk back and I’ll make friends and, in turn, learn things from them.
What I do know is that I’m no expert and my videos are far from perfect. But I’m okay with that — partly because I have to be (hello, zero-tech skills) and partly because Being Myself is the point. It’s all I really have to offer: Just me, sharing the things I love with whoever shows up. Could be super fun, or it could be tedious as hell.
We’ll see.
This same time, years previous: in progress, crispy baked hash browns, cheesy bacon toasts, to read, potatoes with roasted garlic vinaigrette.
12 Comments
Sarah DB
Very cool! I started watching the ricotta pancake video and got distracted when you showed the einkorn flour bag and I could see that the label looked so familiar–then when it got close enough to read I saw it was from the farm where I buy my bulk foods! Small world.
Becky R.
I’ve watched all of them, and enjoyed them a lot! Keep it up! Great stuff.
Hattie
Another reader who is not a cheese maker, but would love to see you baking something that is not
too complicated but would still be special. I’m thinking how many times I’ve made your orange/cranberry scones to great ovations from family and friends. Something like that. Thanks!
Liz Lockhart
Long time reader, based in UK. You’ve always been one of the homeschool/home bloggers I’d love a coffee and a cake with. Not in a crazy stalker way, in a ‘mum friend’ way I guess. It’s lovely to hear your voice, and the video was fab. (I watched the ricotta pancake one, I’m not good making cheese!)
GraceandGrit
Also about the syrup. Enjoyed watching your family go about the morning routine.
mommychef
you write like the nicest person and now you sound like the nicest one too! not going to lie, will probably never make cheese, but it was fun to watch!
Mary Beth
Oh I’m so excited! Long time reader, now excited to see your stories unfold on screen!
Kathy
How do you make your homemade syrup?
Jennifer Jo
That’s coming up soon!
Michelle McCarthy
I’ve followed you for prob 6 or more years now and always enjoy your posts. It was a surprise to hear your voice. I don’t know what I was expecting, but you seem so calm and real. Keep doing the videos – you are already good at it.
Jennifer Jo
This is so sweet — thank you!
Sue
You go girl! I look forward to seeing you on YouTube!