Such nice things

So lately I've been browsing blogs, mostly homesteaders, homeschoolers, and others trying to live a self-sufficient life. They all have such beautiful things! Where do they get all of this stuff? Where does the money come from? Do they barter? I'll give you my salad bowl for your silk scarves? They all seem to have this great land, these great houses, great antiques, and great toys. Must be nice. Well I don't have much money and I don't have much to barter with. So for now, my kids can have rocks, sticks, flowers, and trees for their Waldorf toys.