i try to do as much as i can for myself i have a flcok of 5 chickens and a decent size garden but it is very discourageing not to be able to do more with out a house and property of our own but with the troubleing economy and the devasting high unemployment rate in michigan it is kinda scareing even thinking about a mortage because the chance of wakeing up and not haveing a job tomorrow the idea of the credit im trying to build will go down the drain we are think of moveing to wyoming but... idk everything is kinda limbo right now anyone got some advice on how they got started

We are in a similar situation as you.  We live in CA and rent, not even feasible for us to buy a house.  We plan on moving in a year or so to Alabama.  We've been in the house we're renting now for 7 years.  I would LOVE to do a huge garden but am hesitant because of the cost and because I know it won't stay with us.  I've been hesitant to do a lot of things because we rent this place.  My Mom has a great saying that I've been trying to adopt more and more, "Bloom where you're planted".  Make the best of wherever or whatever your circumstances, sounds to me like you've been doing a great job with what resources you have.  I know planning a big move is scary, you are right in that you never know what is going to happen.  We are somewhat hesitant too, but we know that we don't want to continue living in CA (for a variety of reasons) and know that we just have to plan the best we can and be responsible with the choices we make regarding our move. 

 All I can say is to pray about it, research heavily, really be honest about the financial resources you have and what you can do with them and if it all looks like it'll work then go for it!!