A Full Year Creating and Then Leaving an Off Grid Wilderness Homestead

From the first day of spring 2020 to the last day of winter 2021, I create a vegetable garden in the middle of a forest, build a root cellar, a screened in porch on my off grid log cabin and an off-grid workshop, and on the first day of spring 2021, I move out of my log cabin and start a new life creating a new wilderness homestead in a more remote location.
My Self Reliance: bit.ly/2G7ncW9
Shawn James Channel: bit.ly/2xzZHpB
T-SHIRTS: teespring.com/stores/my-self-...
Watch the playlists by clicking on these links:
Best of My Self Reliance: bit.ly/2OfW7ry
2020 Cabin Life: • 2020 Off Grid Cabin Life
Log Cabin and Off Grid Living: • Log Cabin & Off Grid L...
Cooking at the Cabin: • Cooking at the Cabin
Building a Log Cabin with Hand Tools: • Building a Log Cabin w...
Building an Off Grid Sauna: • Building an Off Grid S...
Bushcraft and Survival: • Bushcraft & Survival
My Tools, Clothing & Other Gear:
www.amazon.com/shop/myselfrel...
To see what I’m up to during the rest of the week;
Website: myselfreliance.com/
Facebook - / myselfreliance
Instagram - / myselfreliance
My Mailing Address:
51 King William Street
P.O. Box 30017
Huntsville, ON
P1H 0B5

[@MySelfReliance]

Thanks for watching! Every spring, I upload a long video recapping the highlights of the previous year, and this one is particularly reflective and emotional. Spring is a time of renewal, and this year, I shut the cabin door for the last time and move on to the next chapter in my life. I have mixed emotions.... I will upload part 2 on Sunday, the bushcraft and food aspect of wilderness homesteading that consumed much of my time over the last twelve months.

[@bcourd2421]

Wherever you go we will watch your show God bless you in all you do

[@1509Freeze]

I like to think that these last years were the apprenticeship. Doing things all over again is a lot of work, but I´d like to think things will be better. Surely your skills have improved, and if you get a good price for the old property, its basically a paid apprenticeship doing what you seemingly love. I would call that a win. on the bigger and better things!

[@amandar7719]

Sad to see you packing up the cabin. 🥲 But did we just get a glimpse of the new homestead cabin framework? 😃

[@MajorEasley]

Why did you leave if you don't mind me asking what happened???🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼

[@Ortegaanneco.2338]

God bless you Mr.Shawn,,always watching your video's from the Philippines.

[@JP-lb5bm]

Dear friend, you don’t walk alone, there are many who walk beside you. Stay strong, stay healthy, stay pure.

[@tWoforgamenot1]

ditto :)

[@Feeoryne]

Ditto 2 :-D

[@benjaminyoung3489]

Ditto....!!!!!!

[@ronniesmooth5539]

Except for the dog, it looks like he is walking alone to me, and I think he prefers it that way.

[@Feeoryne]

@@ronniesmooth5539 The dog's name is Cali and is a girl, she loves exploring with Shawn...

[@josephmartignetti8941]

Without exaggeration, I think I’m one of your first couple of thousand subscribers, and this is my first comment, I have spent the last hour or so reading these beautiful other subscribers comments. Totally heart touching, you see I’m a handicap man that has spent the last 20 or so years in a wheelchair, from a terrible accident, to tell you what you have done for me cannot be explained in just a simple comment, I have watched and rewatched your videos and sometimes I fallen asleep while watching, and that’s when the best part happens for me ,for a few minutes while I’m in another state of mind ( sleeping ) I have these beautiful dreams , that I’m out in the wilderness like you , building and creating just like you, , to the point that I can actually smell and feel the woods, logs and dirt its a feeling that brings me back before my accident, but I’m not looking for pity, or anyone to feel bad for me, I’m just stating the facts. So when you see how many People and subscribers you have , you need to think to urself wow people out there really like me , no my friend it’s the fact that you have touched people imagination, just like when I dream other people also dream, maybe not like me , but they dream too, so without taking up more space that I should, I want to end by saying a simple thank you........and may your God be behind you in every step you take ...

[@MySelfReliance]

Thank you Joseph. Your comment gave me an extra boost of energy this morning

[@samchapman7513]

Wow this touched me and reminded me how important the power of our imagination is; And even if that’s the only place where things are possible, sometimes that’s the only place they need to be 🧡 God bless you Joseph xx

[@karenthegoodkind]

Joseph, God bless you in all you stretch forth your hands to do. Amen.

[@robn8433]

Beautiful reply Joseph, very very touching, I wish you well in your future

[@user-yu3es6yl9e]

@@samchapman7513 1.

[@coindude6799]

I’m a master carpenter who has built a few hundred nice homes but your sprit and patience is far more rewarding when you put everything you do from self taught experience to work. Puts you in a class all alone at the top

[@marluceluce2818]

Amei assistir os seus vídeos, parabéns

[@PussySnatcher]

True

[@Linda-9037]

I had a neighbor who played loud music..so one day I bought the biggest boom box I could find...I then put aimed right at him and ALL DAY LONG BLASTED LOUD classical music in his direction. I mean no let up...ALL DAY LONG.....He got the hint...I never heard loud music out of him again. That boom box was the best investment I ever made to protect my property value....I only use it now at Christmas time to play Christmas music. and my homestead is tranquil with only the sounds of birds singing, leaves rustling, waves hitting the beach and crackling fire.......THAT IS TOP NOTCH MUSIC TO THIS NATURE LOVERS EARS....the best kind...and ALL I want to hear.

[@nanarose3496]

Shawn, as a 72 widow who lost her husband 1 1/2 years ago, your videos have been a balm for my soul for so long. This one, however, has me in tears knowing what you invested in making this homestead for you and your family, only to have to walk away from it I must tell you though that your decision to have that dream of privacy, security and self reliance at such a great cost is admirable. I loved your quote at the end and know that bridge you built over the stream will lead to a new and better life for you, your wife and daughters. May the universe bless you in this new endeavor and heal what I know must be a bit of a hole in the soul for what you have left behind ❤️

[@dannyb.9721]

I lost my wife of 51 years, 3 months & 5 days, 2 years ago. I feel the same as you. So sorry for your loss. All the best going forward!

[@nanarose3496]

@@dannyb.9721 sorry for your loss as well

[@faasrumaar91]

Imagine Shawn asking 4 little help building the new cabin, having literally millions of people willing to help.... Anytime.... For free! This is how much u inspire good Sir

[@bichonbarron3075]

I am 63 with rheumatoid arthritis and can’t do much physically. If I lived even remotely near I would show up to cook and prepare meals and coffee for crew. His new homestead would go up literally over night.

[@faasrumaar91]

@@bichonbarron3075 the crew would certainly appreciate 👍

[@papajeff5486]

I live in Texas, I’m 65, Shawn, if you ask I’ll come with my RV, truck and tools, and stay as long as you need me. Texas

[@dawnajamison430]

I would cook the meals for every one.

[@faasrumaar91]

@@dawnajamison430 the army is gathering!! We got 2 cooks already...in need of a director of operation and someone good with logistics and were vood to go.... Poor Shawn!! reading these comments hell be like they're coming!!

[@jamesmartin6546]

Fascinating; I'm only 82 here in 2022, but I remember to a degree that my Maternal Grandfather loaded household goods, tools, and animals on a freight car in southern Illinois in 1911. Destination, homesteading near Athabasca, Alberta. According to what Mother has passed along, she was 6 when they moved and little sister was a couple years younger. They arrived in spring and lived in a platform based tent toward fall as Grandpa built a log house for them to live in. A sand pit under the house kept the veggies from freezing, of which they had plenty from Grandma's (the consumate gardner) along with meat from the surrounding forest, dairy from the 2 cows, and meat and eggs from the chickens. I've recorded (before they passed) tales from their adventure from both Mom and Aunt. Aunt said the were never hungry. As I watched you build your cabins I thought of Grandpa (who passed in 1947 when I was too young to grasp all the tales that were brought back) too many to tell here. I've inherited many of Grandpas tools and it's wonderful to use them on projects I've done over the past few years all the while thinking of him as he built their house, out buildings, and barn.. Although all the buildings are gone, there is evidence of the vegetable pit where a later owner of the property told me the house had been. How fortunate I was to be able to visit it some 4 years ago. Thanks for sharing your adventure with us. Jim M in Wisconsin

[@joaohidalgo2596]

Excellent carpenter, agronomist, forest cook, a rare person to see today. congratulations you are a lesson in life.

[@rejaneberclaz3331]

Bravissimo 🤩💪👏👏👏👏👏👏👏

[@nercialves8270]

Acho que vou ajudar ele na terra kkkkkk

[@RoopaDudleyPaintings]

No woman no cry.

[@sirjd5804]

I’ve always been the “turn the other cheek, and move on” type of person, but i would be telling a lie if i wouldn’t admit that sometimes certain people can be a huge disappointment. I know all too well the feeling of being pushed away from something you’ve spent time, and hard work building. I spent 15yrs on a beautiful piece of secluded property all to have a person buy a small piece of land behind mine, all to be granted legal right away through my place. It just reminded me that we’re all just guests here on this earth. There’s bigger, and better things ahead, you and your family will move on ahead towards these great big things. Good luck, and enjoy!

[@2dronetek2]

That would piss me off...... Bad enough to be right behind me, but to also be able to just stroll through whenever?? I would give them the side of the property and grow hedges and fence everything else off.

[@katesisco]

Also discovered even people who have no grudge against you will fall to greed and take your and your children's future and then spend decades dirtying you to make it appear they had cause.

[@EV-wp1fj]

@@2dronetek2 It's called an easement and it's a fairly common situation. Without it, there would be no roads, just a ton of landlocked parcels that nobody can live on.

[@chasethecat3839]

@@katesisco sound sounds like a true narcissist

[@PrtPrtPrtGood]

I get confused over this whole issue. This had to happen at some point as more and more people are looking to get out of the city and there is only so much land. What else would you expect? It's unfortunate but it's a sign of the times and it had to be expected.

[@kerra3699]

One comment here stated “you don’t walk alone” and they couldn’t be more right. There have been many that have moved along your path to self reliance with you, by your side, pondered with you, worried for you, laughed with both you and Cali, and thrilled with your achievement. What you have achieved still exists, and even if it didn’t, all you have shown us will live on in our hearts. We are still with you, for as long as you want us to be.

[@paulineedwards9029]

So sad, so guinuine ,so sweet and so true.

[@mycelticstardust]

Beautifully said!

[@corinnerenshaw3621]

Amen to that one !

[@bobobrien8968]

So true.

[@nancystill6447]

the truth. Given time i will not say you will forget it but this move will lose its sharpness on how you basically were made to move. Bring your wife along for the excitement. We all want to see more of her!! “Life is too short to live alone”

[@simpleartofhealing286]

You are truly incredible! I've watched many of your videos this past year and I am truly heartbroken to see you leaving your home you created with such heart and hard work! I'll continue to watch you build your new one and it will be interesting to see if you build it similar or completely different. I'm addicted to watching you now and always amazed with your knowledge and energy! A true artist. You have all of our love and support. Excellent filming and editing. I love that you don't talk. It's so entertaining and relaxing to watch!! This is the new Hollywood and you truly are a star!!

[@MegaDeansy]

Your a far, far better man than me - I'd be ensuring my neighbour would remember me for the rest of his natural ............ and possibly beyond !

[@John-Adams-Can]

Even though you are a man's man, I bet you shed a few tears putting this one together. A heart felt good luck on your new adventures from my wife and I. You truly have helped us way more than you will ever know and deserve your dreams.

[@jmar665]

I shed a few tears watching this. I have never met another human being with your work ethic. There are bigger and better things for you and your family.

[@alycatpublishing1164]

Hear hear! Well said.

[@johnwasula5907]

Not boring at all Shawn. We love watching you build a homestead. Do what you need to do. So happy that Cali is healthy. Thank you for what you do.

[@ianrtilley]

Hi Shawn, I have watched all your videos since you became a KZbinr😊. You are unique in what you do, I am very sad that because of others the work that you have done and the home that you have built for yourself and your family will not be enjoyed to it’s fullness. What I can say is that with your skills, Bushcraft, Woodmanship and knowledge of your Native Country has kept thousands of us going especially during this difficult time..... hats of to you Shawn.. in my opinion no one else comes close to you in what you do. It a new beginning and we will all be with you as long as your Camera is Rolling 😊😊Bless you mate, all the Best from Ian England

[@johnkaimins9998]

My heart was aching watching the first part of this video. But, where one door closes, another one opens. Onward. Blessings.

[@devonseamoor]

Yes, there's heart ache, and yet, I've decided to always move in such a way, that I leave a beautiful place and enter another beautiful place. No grudges are on my tail, it would be a waste of life worth living. Onwards, blessed be.

[@Fookanelli]

Shawn, you have managed to turn a 24 hour day into 48 hours. One motivated guy, thank you for the memories. Onward, as always.

[@paulineedwards9029]

Agree

[@susanbaker1936]

Digging basement for new cabin

[@soulvaccination8679]

Like i have been saying for years.The History Channel needs to pick this up as a weekly show..Its that good.

[@graciegolden2290]

Sweet Jesus. Look what this guy does. Harvesting goodness every which way.

[@samisamsamisam]

We miss this place with new one will be even better 🙏 Sam from Kuwait

[@medtech1a]

I know that must be the hardest decision you’ve ever made. All that effort all that work and having neighbors that close.

[@allabored4443]

Ever?

[@MySelfReliance]

Near the top

[@FPVsean]

Not to mention having a public access road right by the cabin!! That would be so unsettling having that all of a sudden after being in the wilderness..

[@nelliefarr1540]

hope with spring in the air you are planting some fruit trees and a few beds on the new property to keep you going for the next year

[@young-soonkim6730]

@@FPVsean Canadian housing market is really hot right even in the cottage country. At present the mortgage interest rate is 1.9%. A lot of the people used to work at downtown Toronto are buying outside of the city because of the cost. But, they don't realize that they may have to commute to work everyday when Coronavirus Pandemic is over.

[@williamburdon6993]

9999 out of 10000 eole would never have attemted the first cabin , after the drama surrounding that after all that hard work , only a handful of people on the planet would have started over again. I salute you sir, you are one of the most determined people , the world has known. It is an absolute pleasure to watch you , make the place, you want to live in .

[@adavazquez3378]

God have bless this man many times, there's none like him.

[@jenniferm1605]

"There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens".... Well done Shawn.

[@no1treman]

AMEN to that. Whatever doesn't overcome you surely makes you stronger.

[@crazypeoplearoundtheworld304]

Can it

[@John-N797]

Shawn James You are the most determined, focused and hardworking man I have ever seen. You are proof that as humans we are capable of doing far greater things than we could ever imagine. We are also capable of weathering far greater calamities and difficulties than we usually imagine. We have seen you do it so it is possible.

[@juneribbons5196]

Hes doing just like the pioneers who settled this land. It was thier hard work that developed our country. Since it was done then, it can be done now. All it takes is study and hard work to do exactly what he is doing !!!

[@mariateresamaldonado6452]

Me encanta este hpmbre lo que hace, yo soy grande tengo 75 años, me recuerda a mi abuelo , cuando estaba vivo. Vivia solo cerca de casa, yo iva todos dias a mirar lo que hacia, trabajaba la madera, me ISO una muñeca de madera. Tambien cultivava su verdura, y se hacia la comida.saludos.🙋‍♀️🎆👍♥️

[@dimitrismarkos2466]

I have been watching your channel for 2 years and it is a psychotherapy for me .. Many times I have calmed down from a difficult day watching your wonderful way of life. I live in Athens (Greece) in a city of 6 million people and I am tired .. Watching the channel and your life for the last 2 years I have started to think that it is time to leave the city and change my life for good.. Thank you to help me to see and learn how to do that.. your videos was a good lesson for me.. Hope the best for you and your beautiful family.. ΑΔΡΑΞΕ ΤΗΝ ΗΜΕΡΑ !!

[@user-yy7oj8np8h]

I am Youssef from Libya. I officially declare my desire to buy the old Shaun Hut. I saw the construction of this hut from the very beginning, and it is important to us

[@johnnikula2701]

I’m with you brother. I have done the same and would love to share the James family estate with you.

[@georgewhitehouse8630]

You guys name a dog and reenact over years

[@user-yy7oj8np8h]

@@georgewhitehouse8630 What do you mean

[@MegaDeansy]

@@georgewhitehouse8630 wtf ????

[@christineingram55]

Shawn it still grieves me you had to leave your hard work and your beautiful home because of people.However I must admit I really do think where you are now is absolutely beautiful ,and very peaceful.At least if family visit there is always somewhere to stay..I know you have great plans for this new area and also that you work with the environment as well as the wildlife around you.I wished more people loved this beautiful world as you do.Had I have been a lot younger I would have loved to do this and live in peace and quiet.Just enjoying the gifts around us.But sadly I am elderly now.Not in spirit .My body is older than me lol!..I do envy you and your best friend when you post the next edition.It’s given me a lot of joy watching you as you have become one with nature..stay safe always and give your little friend a hug from me ..Love n Light 🥰

[@SuperTrb0]

I love how your pup is standing there like, “so I know your spreading gravel and all, but if you can just throw my toy, that’ll be great”.

[@womensarmycorpsveteran2904]

I was thinking the same thing. Just throw his toy now and then. Either that or do a whole video just with the dog!

[@SuzanneWho]

@@womensarmycorpsveteran2904 the dog needs another dog to play with!

[@58nunzi]

I'm a Carpenter, 63 years of life behind me. I just love these videos. And I'm still learning. Thanks for the priceless knowledge.

[@faithslanding5305]

Very emotional! I don't know why I am crying... watched you since the cabin being built .. bought your mugs and tee shirts ... you are an inspiration .... Looking forward to your new adventure ... please hurry and upload videos ...LOL. Thank you for all you have shared with us.

[@donnacole4227]

Faith. Im crying too more than once .We have become so attached to Shawn an Calli through his videos . So sad for him

[@RawChaka]

One thing I can say about Shawn James, is he keeps his hands in beautiful shape. For the amount of work he's done with them, you never see a lot of cuts and scratches. No cracked cuticles, no calluses and even while planting seeds in the dirt, his nails aren't dirty. You can tell when a person's nails are permanently stained with dirt, Shawn's aren't. I love watching his videos, it relaxes my nerves. And Cali is the sweetest and bravest lil girl!🐶💕 Good Luck on this new project, I'll definately be waiting for your future uploads! Stay safe!😊🙏🏾

[@michaelcann280]

Wow, So sad after so much work and passion , nothing but admiration for your unbelievable shear hard work and spirit to do it all over. Thank you Shawn James, for all you do for us in ways you may not know. Thank you

[@afishingmagician]

Been following all year. This man is the essence of peace and tranquility. Gos Bless you Shawn, wherever you journey takes you. And thank you for showing us all, the best of humanity.

[@Mark-id7fq]

(Mark) Shawn, the last few years watching your films has been a great thing to wake up to and enjoy our morning coffees, top quality film work! The amount of work you’ve done is unreal! We look forward to your new adventure.

[@oreilly1237878]

A truly great internet experience of a lesson in self reliance.One of the best sites on the entire internet.The beauty of nature in the raw.I take my hat off to this man.

[@dougmann8570]

Impressive craftmanship that has grown into a new realm of a master. With the sheet-metal background you have grown to a master wood worker. I just started watching your channel a couple days ago with by chance catching an episode. Have been hooked ever since seeing the passion of an artist that loves to create in a craft with improvements every episode. You have to love what you do working with your hands crafting an art. You do not use the chainsaw except through necessity of time constraints for milling; battery drill, chainsaw, etc. not used much because your art useing your spirit, mind, soul and body connects, frees your soul while creating your masterpiece by hand for your partner in life. My observation as I see it. Your stress level from just making a living doing something you did not connect with has faded while making you stronger with every step, of the way, for your new connective walk of freedom and creative passion. God Bless you and yours.

[@131dyana]

We had to leave our home of 38 years because of unsafe neighbors who broke into our house when were gone. We moved, got a new alarm company and now we are here to stay. Better neighbors better place , and our new alarm cannot be turned off by some one else. It is connected to the cell phone tower. Our garden starts next month. Thank you for showing us how to grow a vegetable garden. I am certain you helped many people with their gardens. Our compost piles are really a good thing to have No more fertilizer needed at the store.

[@joyceb5864]

So bittersweet. It must hurt to leave such a beautiful homestead, but I know you will make the new one even more beautiful and productive. The one thing you left out of this video is the million times you threw Callie's toy!! Thank you so much for sharing your journey.

[@masterdftw4983]

Your old cabin is a masterpiece. Sad you have to leave it.

[@user-tp4bx2ep5e]

Какой он трудолюбивый. И все может. Класс!!!

[@the_katman2181]

Man, your dog has the best life. My two would absolutely love it there.

[@christrankle8276]

What I found astounding and refreshing is the type of tools you used. Old fashioned and not power. I am amazed at all the "off grid" videos I have watched and I've watched a ton and they all have these amazing power tools and fancy tools to use. It is contradictory to me. If you are trying to build economically and within a budget how to you afford the tons of money for these tools!!! Crazy! I truly loved watching you build this with simple tools that are more appropriate for the "off grid" lifestyle. Truly inspirational!

[@GirlSproket]

Imagine doing all of that work, then being driven off by some asshat neighbor. Hope everything works out better this time around.

[@vosotras1]

Hola te comento que soy de Argentina tengo 62 años y no entiendo nada del idioma ingles ( hoy mi hijo me explico como hacer para traducir ) y sigo a Shawn desde el primer dia y no entendía que pasaba que no trabajaba mas en la cabaña y porque empezó una nueva hasta que vi tu comentario . Que le paso que problema tuvo , cual vecino , porque tuvo que abandonar todo . Desde ya gracias saludos Roberto Hello, I will tell you that I am from Argentina I am 62 years old and I do not understand anything of the English language (today my son explained to me how to translate) and I have followed Shawn from the first day and I did not understand what happened that he did not work anymore in the cabin and why started a new one until I saw your comment. What happened to him, what problem did he have, what neighbor, because he had to abandon everything. Thanks in advance, greetings Roberto

[@GirlSproket]

@@vosotras1 To my knowledge, there is one neighbor who has consistently harassed Shawn ever since that person moved in, to the point where police had to be involved, and there is another one who is moving into the lot behind Shawn's. The person who is moving into the lot behind him has been granted permission to build a public-use road. That road (when built) will be practically next to his old cabin. Que yo sepa, hay un vecino que ha acosado constantemente a Shawn desde que esa persona se mudó, hasta el punto en que la policía tuvo que estar involucrada, y hay otro que se está mudando al estacionamiento detrás del de Shawn. La persona que se muda al lote detrás de él tiene permiso para construir una carretera de uso público. Ese camino (cuando esté construido) estará prácticamente al lado de su vieja cabaña. Utilicé Google Translate para transcribir mi texto al español, así que lamento si no se traduce bien.

[@chasethecat3839]

Its truly bothersome. Would like to do some old fashioned butt whooping to some certain folks on his behalf 😊

[@vosotras1]

​@@GirlSproket que lastima tener que abandonar esa cabaña , yo estoy asombrado con lo que el hizo . Esta comprobado que gente con tan mala onda hay en todo el mundo lo que no me imaginaba que hubiera en un lugar como ese . Te mando un gran abrazo y gracias por responderme What a shame to have to leave that cabin, I'm amazed at what he did. It is proven that people with such bad vibes are all over the world that I did not imagine there would be in a place like that. I send you a big hug and thank you for answering me

[@cherrydowns7745]

And encroaching civilization. Imagine a road suddenly appears right beside the Paradise you have built over the past year. Then imagine an a$$hole, jealous, moronic, simple minded neighbor deciding it would be great fun destroying the peace. I hope they got what they deserved. It's going to be wonderful watching you rebuild. It's going to be lots of work with some pleasure sprinkled in here and there. But isn't that always what life is about? I thoroughly enjoy your pleasure trips. And Cali is a beautiful dog in her prime. With all due respect, you are a good looking man Shawn James, and a sight for an old lady to enjoy watching, but when you are in the canoe will you please keep the camera pointed forward??!!!

[@kerrymetzger5432]

I’m already fighting back tears. I cannot fathom leaving that beautiful cabin, Shawn, but I understand your reasons for doing so. God bless you, your family and Cali in the upcoming year. Remember you have thousands of followers who wish you well and cannot wait to watch the creation of your new homestead. Stay safe.

[@MySelfReliance]

Thanks so much

[@trisho.8331]

@Kerry Metzger, also fighting back tears and concur with all you wrote. I was devastated for Shawn & family when he first explained the need to start over in a more remote area. Now I’m loving the new location and phenomenal progress he’s made in such a short time. Speaks volumes of his character. Shawn is a living legend and we’ll continue to support him thru thick and thin. God bless you and the James’ family. 🙏🏻❤️

[@ITSONLYMEWATCHING]

I thought I was the only one. All of a sudden I burst into tears. What a beautiful life. I'm jealous, but in a good way.

[@michaelortega5045]

Your video reminds me of my boyhood in the countryside in the Philippines . Nature has taught me to be creative , resilient , self-reliant and survivor . In the last quarter of a century of my life , l wish to be back in the countryside for it's therapeutic and healthful living . It's

[@bayoutown1990]

This is so heartbreaking to see all that hard work and beauty left behind. I sincerely hope that you are able to build what you hope will be your long-lasting home. We live on a 7-acre homestead in south Mississippi that we have built ourselves over 30 years. It was remote when we started. Now, we are surrounded by some really disconcerting people but we can't leave all that we've worked so hard for. We are in our 60s now and it would break our hearts to leave this place with so much invested - mostly our hard work. Your work is absolutely beautiful! Very inspiring!

[@ehi3398]

My God, Shawn, it's only 9:00 in the morning and after watching you, I feel like it's time for bed already. I got tired from watching you!! That was a lot of work, even for a year!

[@pizzamondo]

It's so sad to see you leaving after all this work and effort. That is putting the whole concept of self reliance to the test. If just one person or a minor municipal regulation can put you out of your dreams and goals it's just annoying to say the least. The only thing that could change my bitterness is to watch Cali rolling happily on the snow. Mission accomplished! I sincerely wish you the best in your new homestead. Cheers from Patagonia, Argentina.

[@sandyjuntunen4088]

It's sad that the act of one lousy person is allowed to ruin life for so many others. Even in the wilderness the politics of today encroach and overshadow the same people.

[@ericpl7227]

And yet, so many people still love their big government! I just don't get it!

[@sarak6083]

What happened

[@simrankashyap2839]

Wow love the Rustic look.the cabin ,trees, the food ur cooking,d green forest,the building of the log hut and the doggy adds a third dimension .love it.

[@kerra3699]

This is the third time I have tried to watch this vid. It’s not even my cabin but I am upset watching all your hard work knowing you will leave it behind. I’m so sorry Shawn, there are better days ahead for you and your family. 😰

[@B0redom13]

Been my favorite channel for almost 5 years now. Keep up the inspiring work

[@timrowe28]

Your a machine Sean, your workmanship and dedication is extra ordinary. I also love your Jurassic park garden , that's how veggies used to look decades and decades ago before the destruction of our food by corporate psychopaths .

[@southerncross86]

Are you really leaving that pristine nature and all your effots and great achievement? Oh man, you will miss the sound of the wind blowing between the trees, the smell of the woods. WISH YOU ALL THE BEST from the bottom of my heart.

[@xygrup]

I am amazed how peaceful and quite your world is while working on your beautiful cabin in the woods.

[@lynnbigner570]

Many, many, of us have had to start over. You are recording the process. Equal parts courage and hope are required. Very valuable videos. Thanks.

[@karenwornum6275]

So sad to leave your amazing home, but piece of mind, family and a peaceful life are important. I know you will create a beautiful new home

[@tonyfletcher2541]

Shawn, been watching since the beginning and so impressed with your work ethic and desire to share your learning experience. We have watched the highs, and the lows and can't wait to see how this next chapter goes. So sorry you had such a viper of a neighbor. I hope your new place is filled with many more great memories!

[@lesliehilesgardener6959]

This guys prepared for everygood work, tools r expensive he has given time and thoughts to the purpose preparedness wonderful

[@janwalker8716]

I have loved watching this grow, but onwards and upwards and your creation will be even more refined to your liking. I will enjoy watching the new homestead grow. We don’t have this type of freedom in Australia.

[@NetstaOz]

We do Jan, my mother who is 81 bought a house in Melbourne when she was 73, had it removed and located on a small farm near Ballarat, miles from anyone and very quiet, the land was empty, she had the house rebuilt, had dams and tanks and fences put in, started a sheep flock, built the sheds and garage herself (with some help) got solar, planted a large vegetable garden and fruit trees and is now completely off the grid. Yes, it can be done. It's not wilderness but for an 81 year old it's not far off it.

[@maryblaylock6545]

@@NetstaOz Now there is a woman I'd like to meet. I am 71 and my kids and friends were a bit puzzled when last year I asked for tools for birthday, Mother's day and Christmas. One of the tools that I asked for was a jigsaw. I got a jigsaw puzzle. And It's a good puzzle! I am re-learning old skills and hope to gain new ones. Blessings on you and your family and friends and any livestock you might have wandering around the house and yard! Stay healthy too!

[@janwalker8716]

@@NetstaOz it’s far enough off it as he has no council restrictions and doesn’t need permission to take his own trees and build a log cabin.. I do realize we can grow our own veg, and have have our solar and live away from others for the quiet, but we can not do what he is doing here and that’s the freedom I was referring to. When he wants a tool shed or a food locker or sauna, he doesn’t have to wait for council do decide or have planning engineers every step of the way. That’s a massive financial cost we are always burdened with. The bureaucratic freedom is a major part.

[@NetstaOz]

@@maryblaylock6545 no you wouldn't, Mum'd just want to borrow your tools

[@warnerwells1425]

This is informative, and sad because of your neighbors. I am so very sorry for THEM. GOD bless you and your wife and girls.

[@toddritchie9137]

Kinda nostalgic, miss see you at the old place, you put a lot hard work, sweat, and yourself in that place.

[@amandamathews4516]

What you do, your patience, calmness your videos bring, the work you put into your videos. The editing! My god I could gush all day. It’s all a class of its own. You bring so much to so many people. Thank you.

[@andrewsims5324]

Love the old cabin but I have to say I'm looking forward to see you build the next one. 🙏

[@timothybowen2481]

Awesome documentary of this past year Shawn! You should be nominated for an Oscar for your efforts. Not kidding, and not just for your fine filming, editing, and overall body of work, but for the intense labor (literally, and mentally) you put into everything you do!

[@Flowergurl2000]

💯agree.

[@tylerglidden2922]

Watching that video made me feel alot of things. I was mad, sad, and amazed. But most of all it made me feel sick in my stomach. It was hard to watch that. I commend you on your resolve to live life the way you do.

[@christinamarie3598]

I hate that there was no other reason than persons who couldn't be human and destructive... honestly... where you landed...IS BEAUTIFUL ❤️. You are a very creative and determined man...hard working and thoughtful...you are only going to build on your knowledge and skills practiced on your previous property and take it to another level ❤️✌️🙏

[@alisondickinson]

You always leave something of yourself behind you when you leave a place, especially when you have built it with your own hands. I dread the day when we might have to make that decision. Blessings and peace as you move forward, Shawn.

[@krissmgvlogs]

Loved that old homestead 01:18:50. A bridge to new beginnings 01:19:48

[@sandydaviswhytelewis5387]

Ah...the Famous Alone in the Wilderness Spoon❣

[@user-ex2vr4de1g]

Вы - настоящий хозяин тайги: мужественный, спокойный, опрятный. Всё умеете делать самостоятельно. Как и Вы, мой папа умел так работать с деревом и землёй. Даже инструменты такие, как у Вас. Этому его обучили отец и дедушка, они из Белоруссии. Кто научил Вас работать. Передаёт ли Вы мастерство своим замечательным дочерям. Успехов Вам, мира и счастья.

[@user-yz3fr8yf3j]

У него предки из Украины , с первого ролика было понятно , поэтому все и умеет .

[@jeanettec6212]

I remember it all! Its bitter sweet! You have such a great mindset moving forward. I will miss the old homestead so much and wonder if you will keep it for guests. Im excited to see what changes you will make, when building your new home. I wonder if any of what you built will be away from the road thats going in, like the food shelter. I just pray you keep from injuries as you are one of the hardest working man Ive ever seen, and would be honored to meet you! Im a born again believer and by the blood of Jesus, my home is in heaven, i hope to meet you there and see what it is you build then too! Blessing always Shawn, and thank you for sharing all you do!

[@cynthia9144]

It is an emotional time when you really like the place that you custom design for yourself and you are familiar with the land and your surroundings... Sometimes progress for some people is suffocating for others...stripping away our privacy.... our quietness...our oneness with nature and with God almighty... and the past times we have shared with others... can only be accessed through our memories.... The beauty about Spring iit begins a new season a promise of life... Life is a journey a passage through time... We will be here every step of the way as you embark in your new adventures reaching those dreams and goals... Praying for you continually having good health, strength, protection, and safety....God's, many blessings to you, your wife, and Cali too...and your daughters and their lives...

[@barbarakujawa320]

So hard to leave what you build as a forever home. God speed sir. 🙏♥️

[@AmberMaureenPuanani]

Such a beautiful experience and such a craftsman’s - I love all your ideas -what an inspirational time building, planting, harvesting… surviving! Enjoy your profound journey.

[@kittymorse7402]

I used to use those tools of my Dad's when I was a young girl..brings back good memories. I am 82 now and can't do a lot any more. Enjoy watching you do what I can't any more.

[@Satellitegirl41]

It's rough for me to see you have to leave all that behind, so I can only imagine what it is like for you. So much to be proud of though. I like the hopeful music at the end.

[@annkoehler8017]

Oh my goodness, Shawn! I was so choked up watching the ending. Thank you for sharing part of your journey with us. Looking forward to watching you rebuild, and have a second start! May the world be full of more understanding people.

[@chasethecat3839]

It was so beautifully hand crafted. Lucky for the new owner. The House That Shawn Built

[@jayheinrich5207]

Thank you Shawn & happy Birthday tomorrow. You are in the best years to come!

[@jayheinrich5207]

That is on the first of April. I will not have internet access so that is why it is early. Dock, lifts, boats etc might be going in on my own cabin I built.... ice out 🤗!

[@haywoodjablome6645]

I'm just happy that you have peace now Shawn. Thanks again for sharing your journey with us. God Bless.

[@patriciajoubert426]

Shawn is an American Treasure, a real Master at what he does and should be celebrated as one. It was hard to see that he had to leave all the work that he had done, but as he is not negative nor a complainer, I don’t want to be one. I hope all goes well for him in his new space of wilderness land. I know he will give it his all as usual. What an amazing human being. He causes others to want to do their best.

[@Allan-hd1uh]

I believe he is a Canadian

[@frb821]

I was soo sad to see you having to leave what you built was beautiful and so functional. I hope that you are able to salvage some of the work to your new location. Wishing you all the best this coming year. I really enjoy your video's. Thank You!

[@margiechism]

| STORAGE | Homestead could be used as a pantry storage for sweet potatoes, and another food source such as grains...corn.

[@margiechism]

Drying herbs would be good use for Homestead...drying apples too!

[@bcourd2421]

We love you shawn and your program, God bless you with all your endavours, we will watch your videos wherever you go

[@courtneymartinello7725]

I have truly loved watching you build your home! Everything you built was amazing, your craftsmanship almost doesn’t exist anymore. I’m so sorry you had to leave all your work. If it means anything you taught so much to all of us. I hope you are able to bring the same effort/compassion/love to where ever you and!

[@nato6321]

You are the father of constructions in wood! Follow your fans delighted with your wit !! A great simple lifestyle that he leads, away from pollution and noise. Congratulations!!

[@bichonbarron3075]

Shawn, I hope you put the homestead up for sale. A lot of weekend warriors, hunters & fisherman would go nuts for this beautiful off grid place.

[@Larry-325]

Shawn this is an awesome video! Loved the old cabin and outdoor kitchen. It’s sad but your intention was to be more secluded and now that’s changed. I am just sorry you have to go through all this work again. But I have always been a firm believer that things happen for a reason. Your new homestead will be better than ever with what you have learned to this point. I love watching these buildings get built I am just sorry it’s at the expense of your hard work! Always love the videos 👍👍👍👍👍

[@juliebrothers6033]

Love seeing your sweet doggo peeping from behind the tree. That warmed my heart ☺️. Haven’t you done well Shawn. Very impressed. Just in time too ... by the looks of things going down in this world... All is well.. God speed.. 💁‍♀️💕🙏✝️🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸

[@Toddzilla3113]

Great Carl Bard quote. It's true inspiration, and fitting to your situation. I'm happy for you Sean. I hope the next stage in your life is fulfilling. Thank you for sharing.

[@devilschild]

Teachable moment that I passed on to a relative that's buying land. He watched your video on this and said he's grateful he did before he passed on a parcel that butts up to his.

[@rosep4016]

I was crying at the start, and dancing by the end. Looking forward to many great vids. God Bless.

[@user-st5cs3fq4y]

This guy is amazing. He is superman. He is like the cross of Bear Grills and Martha Stewart. Thank you Mr. Self Reliance. I am an instant fan and await the next episode. God bless you, your family, and all of your future endeavors. You rock!

[@yvonnediayon1730]

I watch you from the start until you left your homestead that you built . . . It's sad to see you leave where yiu put your hard work, determination, sacrifice, and all the efforts . . . But don't despair it is not the end of everything . . . It's just the beginning of a better (may be the best) and brand new start . . . God bless you Shawn and your family with Cali . . . May He continue to bless you, guide you and give you good health and more strength to built another new homestead . . . 🙏😔❤

[@lindas1496]

Your newer home will be just the way you like it. I am sorry that you had to experience that. You are blessed. I will enjoy seeing the new and improved homestead👍🇨🇦❤️✌️

[@rickp5679]

Great Ending. There is ALWAYS a bridge to the future. Keep on Keeping on.

[@sm00419]

Thumbnail loops so perfectly.

[@barry394139]

It actually annoys me the circumstances in which you have been placed but I have great admiration for how you have handled the issues you are facing. I hope that all goes well for the future build of the new cabin and I can imagine that you have even better plans for the new homestead!

[@AugustineKar]

Which video does he explain the neighbor situation? I need to catch up