Restoring the Small Cabin: From Fallen Tree to Livable Off-Grid Retreat

tree on cabin roof

Introduction: Restoring the Small Cabin When we first saw the small cabin, a tree had fallen across the roof and packrats had clearly moved in. It had been abandoned for years, but beneath the mess we could see good bones. This post documents the earliest stages of restoring our small off-grid cabin — from assessing … Read more

Gardening

Gardening I am so looking forward to getting out and do some gardening, it’s been a long winter with lots of cold and snow this year. On good thing is that we were able to get out on the snow machines and do some renovations on the small cabin. That will be my office this … Read more

Why Everyone Can Grow a Vegetable Garden (Even in Small Spaces)

Why Everyone Can Grow a Vegetable Garden Growing a vegetable garden doesn’t require acres of land, expensive equipment, or years of experience. Whether you live in an apartment, a suburban home, or on rural property, growing your own food is possible in more ways than most people realize. Vegetables can be grown in raised beds, … Read more

Finding Our Off-Grid Cabin: The Beginning of Our Cabin Project

This post documents the very beginning of our off-grid cabin journey — how we found the property, what we walked into, and why we decided to take it on. This project became the foundation for everything we now share about off-grid living. If you’re new here, you can explore the bigger picture in our guide … Read more

Off Grid Books And Resources

If you’ve felt the pull of living closer to nature, disconnecting from city systems, and building a more self-reliant life, you’re in good company. Off-grid living is more popular and possible than ever, but making the leap takes more than just determination. Reliable information and practical guides really make a difference. I’ve spent countless hours … Read more

Living Off-Grid in the United States

Off-grid homestead in the United States with solar power and garden

Off-grid living in the United States is growing fast—whether it’s in the desert Southwest, forested Appalachia, or open plains of the Midwest. It means disconnecting from public utilities and creating a lifestyle powered by independence, resilience, and smart sustainability. Going off-grid doesn’t mean going without. It’s about harnessing natural resources, mastering DIY systems, and designing … Read more

Off Grid Home Security Systems

Living off the grid brings a lot of freedom, but it also means handling your own security instead of depending on city services. Making sure your home and property are safe is really important when you’re far from neighbors, don’t have quick access to police, and sometimes can’t get a cell signal. Over the years, … Read more

Bear Proofing Chicken Coop

Raising backyard chickens in bear country definitely comes with its own set of challenges. Bears are smart, persistent, and incredibly strong. Basically, the last thing you want getting into your coop is a hungry bear. The trick to bear-proofing your chicken coop is working smarter, not harder, by using the right combination of tough materials, … Read more

Murphys Oil Soap

The Best Cleaner for Wood in Your Off-Grid Cabin Living off the grid means relying on products that are simple, natural, and effective. Every cleaner you bring into your home should serve multiple purposes, last a long time, and be safe for both your family and the environment. For those with wood surfaces—floors, walls, cabinets, … Read more

Micro-Hydro Turbines For Off-Grid Homes: A Complete Guide

Micro-Hydro Turbines for Off-Grid Homes: A Complete Guide If you live off-grid and have access to a stream, creek, or river, a micro-hydro turbine system can be one of the most reliable renewable energy solutions. Unlike solar or wind, which depend heavily on weather conditions, a micro-hydro turbine can generate a steady supply of electricity … Read more