Be Free. No Mortgage. No Utilities.

Why my family chooses to live without running water, electricity, and other modern conveniences. Responding to viewer comments on our lifestyle.
Would you ever choose to live off grid?
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[@anncromarty2590]

Anyone who thinks you are lazy has never hauled water, pounded in fence posts, or planted a garden. Rock on.

[@user-nv1yh2fx4j]

Definitely

[@user-nv1yh2fx4j]

My Daddy in the 1970s owned his own business & built fence by hand with post hole diggers. Before all of us kids could go to town we would have to unload everything. Post hole diggers, buckets of staples, hammers , nails & buckets of creosote.

[@tarrabrazeau7605]

I would argue that the people who live in houses with full amenities and conveniences are the “lazy” ones! Homesteading is not easy! It is incredibly rewarding ❤️. Your kids are so lucky to be able to grow up learning all of those skills! Don’t listen to those people. It’s just jealousy!

[@bradlafferty]

T’heck with the name-callers. These folks rarely have a perspective beyond what they themselves have lived. You and your husband are incredibly creative and your drive and “work ethic” is for your family and not for an employer. What you are doing shows long-term thinking and structuring to adapt over time. Respect. Keep going. You are modern pioneers in post-modern society.

[@bmcdonald7303]

True. It’s not as easy as it looks to the outsiders. It’s hard work.

[@christinegiorgianna8128]

If I was 20 years younger I would probably be living off grid. After 40+ years of being enslaved to the system, it sounds like heaven!

[@Cheryl-wm1xd]

I'm wondering why you even argue with these idiots?

[@rachelcrossen8136]

That’s laughable that people talk about CPS to you. Your kids are way better off than most these days.

[@SuGilstrap]

People are ridiculous! Someone called child services on us because we had a baby at home. If you aren’t doing what they do they think it’s wrong! You are doing great and your kids will be way better off than most kids raised in the city on screens all day long! Well done!

[@ValerieLain]

I am 66 years old. Work corporate world 28 years. If I was younger I would do exactly what you are doing. Peace of mind is worth a million dollars. Take Care.❤

[@capecodder8655]

Also in my 60’s, they are so smart to know how to live independently!

[@ragdollpreppers2648]

Amen

[@tamaracross9]

I say if you want to do it don't let age stop you. Do bit by bit ,what you can handle when you can handle it. I'm 45 , I'm doing it with severe depression and anxiety. My neighbor helps me he's 55 and I watch a lot of people over 55 here on KZbin gardening and homesteading . I say all that to say don't count yourself out of something you want to do because of your age.

[@blessedbygod3430]

There are LOTS of people living off grid same as you all are doing. I applaud you all . I have family who are doing likewise and I am PROUD of them. 😊

[@christinecatrambone964]

How dare anybody question your parenting. You and your husband are amazing with Falcon….and from the way it sounds your older girls are responsible happy young adults. Shame on those nasty people. They are jealous. Your channel has given us so many great ideas….and we continue to learn from you😘

[@amydecker6207]

As the girls get to adulthood, i can envision each of them building tiny houses on your land and living With Family but still having their own private spaces.

[@user-nv1yh2fx4j]

Definitely not lazy at all.

[@susankearns9083]

Lol. I am not laughing at you. I am laughing at the one who would honestly think living off grid is not hard work. Have those people even had a garden? Just a garden?

[@user-nv1yh2fx4j]

@@susankearns9083 yes just a garden is alot of work.

[@CassieDavis613]

Raised off-grid. I turned out OK.

[@CentsibleLivingWithMoneyMom]

My father is 86 years young and, he can do all the things you are doing. I love how you are living life your way.

[@Shobyw]

It’s your life and you don’t need to explain why you choose this lifestyle. I love your lifestyle and envy it!

[@violetagira5128]

I am 35 and grew up off grid in Eastern Europe. My parents house only had electricity, that's all. No city water, no septic, no bathroom inside the house or water. We had a well in front of th house and an outside toilet far in the back. And that's how my sister and I grew up. Best childhood ever, we had so much freedom. During the summer we had an outside shower, during the winter time, mom was warming up water on the stove and we all took turns bathing in a small, plastic tub. I live in the United States right now and I see how difficult is for people to imagine this kind of lifestyle. We're having way too many amenities right now. My parents' house in Europe is not like it used to be in my childhood. They have water hooked up in the house now, bathroom inside (they still have the one outside also, but they barely use it anymore), internet, wifi, smart TVs etc. But I still remember the good old days with a smile on my face, and I would turn the time in a heartbeat if I could. I would trade all my amenities I have right now to experience my off grid lifestyle for at least 1 day . You guys are awesome for doing that. I admire you all. Keep doing what you're doing.

[@rachelcrossen8136]

My favorite thing about your life style is the family aspect. You aren’t slave to employers and your kids get to grow up with you every day. So so important. I really admire this.

[@baus7]

Yes to this!!!

[@imnguyen6658]

❤

[@juliemoore6957]

How dare people bring up CPS! Wow!

[@joculp-yq3qh]

Stupid people!

[@juliemoore6957]

I think you are very courageous. Raising your kids out in the fresh air and sunshine, hanging out with mom and dad, what's better than that?

[@joculp-yq3qh]

Precious Falcon❤❤❤❤

[@Bre19188]

People would be surprised how many people are actually living off grid. The only difference is that you're sharing your story publicly. Which I feel more need to hear that are in similar circumstances or could greatly benefit from a lifestyle change. Especially with the rise of inflation. Keep sharing your story it's truly so inspiring.

[@LeeLee-ne6cz]

We have lived twelve years with solar and wells a wood burning stove and gardens we also have milking goats, chickens with no debt we have sacrificed a lot to get here but it gives us a great deal of peace and you will NEVER be sorry for what you are doing and sacrificing to get there!!!!!

[@robintaylor1084]

Those with their snarky comments will be the 1st ones to go in a serious catastrophe or they'll be crying the loudest! There's a TON of people living off grid, they just may not make it known. You go girl and do what works for you!

[@rubytimbers397]

I admire how you live!! Times are getting hard and we need to go back to the old ways of living 👍🏽❤️

[@RN-mn3jn]

Debt free people will always evoke jealousy in those that follow the finance everything path🤷‍♀️ Let those… your age… that have paid off land, paid off shelter and have a monthly budget of $1,000🤔 raise their hands…..there won’t be many. I did like you…lived like no one else when I was younger…..all my friends had fancy clothes, cars, mortgages…. I had a few people even look down upon me… thought I was less than them. I didn’t care… I kept on doing me. And now… my health, happiness and net worth far exceeds those same people who were not nice. I absolutely don’t wish them any harm. You keep doing what you are doing. You are on the right path.

[@elainevega1092]

How I wish I could go back 30 years an even have a glimmer of your an your husband's concepts an abilities to create an love the life you want for yourselves.

[@ragdollpreppers2648]

Amen yes !! Same here 🙏

[@myeshiaunderwood9078]

You’re absolutely right, I know that I lack many skills that my parents and grandparents possessed. I’m learning so much from you and your family. Thanks for sharing your journey with us.

[@ayela562]

Yes! And it’s time for us to learn those skills because I think things are going to just continue getting more and more expensive. I’m 50 and I’m ready to learn and pass it on .

[@megb7491]

Love hearing about your little slice of heaven !

[@bessycorrales6405]

Love Snuffy’s photo bombs.

[@allthinghomewithlynn]

Your style might not necessarily be my style, but I can so appreciate what you’re doing and why you’re doing it. Kudos to you.❤

[@deborahhealey9275]

I applaud you for how you take care of your family

[@shirleysparks1148]

My dad's mother lived "off grid " before it had a name. My husband was raised "off grid" as well . Neither had running water in the home. They did have electricity. Their bathroom was an out house and they had a well no running water inside. And CPS sure didn't come in a threaten to take children . If that was the case, most of the town would have lost their kids. You just do what's best for your family and putting out great content!!✌️

[@seekingtheminimumlevel1830]

There will always be naysayers, probably because they're jealous of what you are achieving. Love watching your videos. Thank you for sharing.

[@danielking2944]

Living without a mortgage is very liberating. We built our own house starting off grid,partly because the electric co-op didn’t want to invest in the infrastructure to run 1/2 mile of power to a temporary house like a mobile home. We hauled water for about eight years and finally had it working well. I had a 1000 gallon plastic tank on a two ton flatbed ‘63 GMC truck and 6000 gallons of storage with a well pump. We live in town now but could go back to the place in the country in a heartbeat. The problem is,after we got all the infrastructure in place,now my lonely mailbox a mile from the house now has eleven companions. Oh ,to be young again and live that rich life!!

[@amandamorris4033]

I would love to see details about groceries and cooking, off grid.

[@bakerfamilyadventures6540]

THIS! There are so many people that are afraid to live out their dreams. Modern conveniences have spoiled us and made most people afraid to live without those conveniences. I would much rather live a simple, debt free, self contained life than one that stresses me out because I have to work at a job that I don't like over 40 hours a week just to pay for those conveniences. My family and I are working towards a simple life. It may not be completely off grid, but it will be close to it.

[@janvan4424]

Great video! Your family is so blessed by this life youre living and how much time you get to spend together 💕

[@nanar.8088]

I believe there are more and more people choosing to do the same as you have. People can't keep affording the increased inflation in housing/rental cost. Smaller and simpler living cost less for sure.

[@ashleybosvik3031]

Your so right, better then being homeless.

[@ayela562]

And as our middle class disappears it’s the smart move. It lets us control our means of living without working ourselves to death.

[@Bre19188]

All of that.

[@hollyroecker9019]

It looks like Falcon got a kitten! So sweet! Thanks for another interesting video. :)

[@ragdollpreppers2648]

My dream is to live the way you guys do 🙏❤️

[@tracybrock1406]

Good on you! There are so many people drowning in debt for things they don't need... You are teaching kids value.

[@margaretvillalpando7722]

Great video! I was raised in Western NC during the 60's in a house with no running water or bathroom. We had to use an outdoor toilet and indoor "chamber pot" at night. We "drew" our water from a covered well with a bucket tied to a string that had a handle that you turned. We got water in the house and a bathroom when I was in 6th grade after my dad added 2 rooms and a bathroom to our house. That was around 1970. We did have electricity thankfully. We lived on a large farm that connected to my grandparents' farm. My brother and I had fun roaming around the land and playing with our 2 cousins that lived nearby. I have to admit I was happy to get running water and a bathroom. :)

[@joculp-yq3qh]

Look at that precious Falcon!! So sweet and growing so fast!

[@danielbast352]

Off grid at 57 and I love it.

[@Cindyscrossstitch]

Your family is hard working. I love your channel. You are so smart. There are some really unkind people out there, your children are loved and cared for. It really hurts to think someone would call CPS on you. 🌻👣

[@WhatDadIsUpTo]

I'm 75 and I live alone DEBT FREE. My bills: property tax ($26), vehicle insurance, telephone

[@neoanderson726]

definitely take care of your own children ; my friend owned a business and use to take her son into work with her a neighbor friend offered to take care of him for a fee of course so she did not have to take him with her . One day at work a customer who is a social worker came in and said she just came back from this neighbor's house to check in on her daycare and she saw my friend's son just sitting in a large cardboard box . My fiend immediately left work to go the woman's house the woman was surprised to see my friend and was trying not let her in teh house but my friend pushed her way in and she did indeed find her son just sitting in a marge cardboard box. Of all her sons he was the most difficult and she always blamed herself because of that one bad experience that he may not even remember . Only takes one bad experience

[@carolynzauss1631]

You guys are awesome doing this! More power to you and teaching your kids this way of self sufficiency. I love it. More people should do this. Fear is only not knowing how to do this. That’s why other people don’t understand you. They are afraid of themselves and lack ability to learn and change.

[@barbarahudson4727]

Snuffy is photobombing you! He made me laugh so hard! I'm so sorry for the hateful comments. I think people are just jealous of you. Bobbi in Virginia

[@michaellawson4473]

Everything you said is so true.

[@jenniferchapman9645]

Some of the comments oh my what is wrong with people. Your young and focused definitely doing the best for your family choosing a lifestyle that you want and enjoy you are realistic enough to know it's not going to be easy plenty of hard work but worthwhile I wish you all the very best x

[@chasingsimpledreams]

I could not agree more! What is wrong with people? If they don’t agree with her lifestyle they don’t have to watch.

[@chasingsimpledreams]

I am so sorry you have to deal with such hatred in the comments. Do NOT listen to those folks! I lived in a truck camper for several months. Doing life off grid is no joke. It’s not easy. U have to think of things much more, like u said. Plan for your energy use and water use. I love what you’re doing, I want to buy land eventually also.

[@chasingsimpledreams]

I am so sorry you have to deal with such hatred in the comments. Do NOT listen to those folks! I lived in a truck camper for several months. Doing life off grid is no joke. It’s not easy. U have to think of things much more, like u said. Plan for your energy use and water use. I love what you’re doing, I want to buy land eventually also.

[@teeadvocate]

Ugh,people can be so judgemental. Your goals are amazing,you'll get there.❤

[@user-rf1zf5jb9c]

I bought a piece of raw land one time and put a travel trailer on it. The county started taxing my trailer and raised my property taxes because of it being there. They said we lived in it and it was part of the land. I just thought I would disclose that it could happen. I mean, rather than being taxed on 10k, I was taxed on 22k. It is possible that your taxes could go up just from your trailer being there. I imagine that it depends on the county that you are in and their polices. That is just an experience that I had one time. I'm definitely not telling you that you are not living your best life by doing what you are doing because I believe that you are 100 percent doing the best thing. Otherwise, I would not listen to all those crazy people trying to scare you.

[@raisingwildflowers]

Ugh, that is awful! Dealing with property taxes is definitely a pain. We were very careful about where we bought, but also know rules can change at any time. We are hoping for the best (and also have our camper hidden for the most part … just in case 😉😂)

[@laurijohnson7754]

Not only that if other properties around you get developed or your area starts growing property taxes will go up as the property is worth more. Plus zoning can change.

[@ronaliveshere7422]

Anytime someone makes a non “ normal “ living / lifestyle choice people get upset. While I have little desire to be off grid for centuries people lived this way that’s how we got where we are today. It is so ridiculous. 😂 I like to learn , it’s good to get some of these skills. You never know what can happen in life. I lived without a phone and internet for years. I survived.. Was it convenient no , but eating was more important.

[@madelinem3216]

I wish I was as smart as you guys are when I was your age. Although I don't know you I am excited for you and look forward to your progress. Love your videos.

[@raisingwildflowers]

Thank you 😊

[@barbarawarren9645]

Snuffy loves you! Homesteading is very popular among young families now as it should be. But, it's not for everyone. 🥰 You are making the right choices. The animals have my heart too. 🐴

[@capecodder8655]

You are so smart to be living the way you do. You will be able to survive, that probably can’t be said for some of the naysayers. If I wasn’t in my 60’s, I would want to live this way. To me it is ideal to be independent!❤️

[@suzie5772]

You and your family are living a beautiful life. It’s the same here in 🇬🇧 the uk, if you want to live slightly differently to others you are made to feel uncomfortable. Stuff what people think, they have no right to judge. ❤

[@strictlyconservative8777]

Ignore them. You are smart, self-sufficient and I only wished I did what you have at your age. I am working towards this to pay cash up front. You just continue doing what you are doing! Love your channel!

[@carolsmith2699]

I agree 100% with everything you said. The ones that post negative comments are usually trolls or just do not understand or do not want to understand. I do believe more people will be living this way because of our current government and the world in general. If an EMP hits, you'll be fine. If our economy crashes, you'll be fine. Looking forward to more videos.

[@LL-wu8zt]

I would never call you lazy. You do you. I enjoy seeing all the different things you can do. It's a difficult time and you will get where you want to be when you can. You are doing fine.😊

[@comicmikesilverageadams8360]

I'm proud of you all, great environment for your kids. Don't read the negative stuff, they are just jealous. Keep your house money making 5 percent or more in safe investments.

[@alicianneboyle2443]

Great topic thank you for sharing. My hubby and have been talking about living off grid and 99% positive about this. All the things that you already have laid down on how to live off grid its absolutely amazing. I love collecting rain water and showering in it we use a car battery for our pump and my hubby made a large hoola hoop shower and i added curtains such a great idea its totally refreshing shower lol so if anyone ever said to you that you can't live off grid my opinion they can just go piss off!!!

[@debbielauck3131]

What a wonderful life you’re creating for your family! I’d love to see some of the meals you’re are making. I remember the great plant based food you prepared in the past and always admired how you came up with such healthy, tasty looking food.

[@carolwoodward6141]

You are doing great!

[@briannamartin2227]

This inspires me that we can do this too! It seems so daunting and scary to live off grid when we are so accustomed to the grid but we really want to break away from all these world systems. Thank you for your content! ❤

[@amandaathome9757]

Hi Katie I’m Amanda from England 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 I’ve followed you from the start and you’re an extremely smart and kind lady I’m also vegan I don’t like American the government is make by the people sick with harmful food dyes we banned many years ago and mass poor farming of animals. Sending you all love ❤❤❤❤❤

[@raisingwildflowers]

Thank you!! ❤️

[@yadymoncayo294]

Well said!!

[@BethLane-hx1bw]

Keep doing what you are doing, use the wisdom you have gained over the years! You are great parents to your kids…….Blessings for a bright future😊

[@albertward7716]

Nice video!

[@lindc1070]

Ultimately it is about what is comfortable to you taking into consideration your financial situation and lifestyle choices. I would never consider doing this even if I was financially strapped( which I am not) because I would prefer to just improve my financial situation by doing side hustles, starting a biz or getting a better job . However I respect that different folks may prefer options. So good luck to you.

[@maryroberts2118]

Is You Tube revenue your only earned income source right now? It's fantastic that your monthly expenses are so low, but you still have to cover them. I'm a bit new to your channel (and really like it) so you may have answered this already. And OMG the Snuffy cuteness!

[@raisingwildflowers]

KZbin is a main source of income, but not our only source of income. We are also working on building other income streams on the property. But it’s a process 😊

[@sallyapplegate4591]

I think you’re doing wonderfully!!!! Keep it up!!!! 😊

[@janvas7690]

It’s your business how or where you live! Each to their own!

[@georgerunhomestead299]

Id build a shelter over that camper to protect it from rain/snow. Also you'd be able to sit outside in shade and protect some possessions from weather like picnic table grill plus more rain catchment. That being said the point of life is to build while you're young so things are easier when you get old. You build raised beds now so you can garden when you get old and can't get down on ground or bend over. You haul water now so you can save for a well so you don't have to haul water when you're old. Do the things while you're young so things are easier when you're old.

[@jayneanderson8057]

you guys are doing great,,,,dont worry about the nay sayers. Love the clip of your baby and the kitten,, so precious.,,,,, and lets not forget scruffy! Love your channel

[@shellyb8943]

Bravo to you but I don't think you have to defend yourself to anyone. I think you are very smart and have thought things out and just want to spend more quality time with your family. Keep doing YOU. Thanks for the video and I can't wait for the water video.

[@baus7]

Love this! I feel like we're knocking on the door of multi-generational homes again because so many have ill-prepared, and it's just so hard on a lot of folks right now.

[@madison9582]

I am not an off grid person. I have had a some experience with both. I have to have a flush toilet.

[@marieparks5674]

Good for you. Do what you want and need to do. Your kids are going to grow up with life skills by your homeschooling, not taught the toxic stuff they are getting in public schools.

[@tracieschrock9519]

there are tons of people living in different ways...choosing to live in vehicles and tiny homes..it definitely is cheaper to live with just what you personally need...i personally have been getting rid of bunches of stuff...LOL downsized my kitchen, i had wayyy to much, i could have supplied 3 kitchens...LOL my clothes are now down to 3 baskets ..1 summer 1 winter and 1 undergarments/pj's..LOL

[@dawnwaters2015]

Wonderful for you! There is nothing like living in the rhythm of nature. I envy you. I'm older now but always wanted to live off grid.

[@ayela562]

Hi Snuffy 😍

[@blueamenaa749]

You re living a perfect life, close to the Lord. God bless you all.❤❤❤❤

[@lindaorozco4595]

I hope all your plans get going ASAP. Best wishes to you and your family

[@sambalina8856]

You are a rational thinking human being, who has been successful in building your financial independence while raising good little people AND living your dream that is wholesome and not dependent on government funds.. you are terrific! Thank you for sharing your family’s journey, I’m so pleased for you that your KZbin channel is taking off.. cheers from Australia 💐

[@SHERRILOWE-wz4lg]

I like the way you think ❤ TFS

[@catherineosborn7114]

I don't live the same way you and your family do, but I think you are amazing and such an inspiration!! I love your videos!

[@madammim694]

we are never really living free in NC, property tax is sky high and if you don't pay or don't pay on time, you get fined or they'll take your property. We bought cheap and fixed up too but the county jacks up the values and the tax rates go up yearly.

[@ShansBackyardGarden]

I wish I was thinking this way when I was your age! Y'all are so dang smart to do this!!! ❤

[@jennugent3957]

Regardless of if on grid or off grid, if you live small your bills are cheaper. Really like watching your channel. I worry about anyone that lives on the edge financially, but you're making the absolute most of what you have. ❤

[@nt6719]

I'm glad you're doing what you're doing. It sounds like you're cash flowing what you're doing which is awesome if you are. Even if you don't plan to connect to utilities you may want to have the ability to or be able to add the ability to. The skills that you're building are important. It's good to have a family property. I wish we did.

[@bmcdonald7303]

I think you’re smart. Keep going

[@bunnobear]

I just love your attitude, we have lived way below our means, meaning I could stay home to raise our children. We have not increased our spending with my husbands wage. Now we are at the stage we can get our wants but we still live very efficiently, smaller house, smaller car, cook from scratch, all makes for a minimal lifestyle that we love but we do not go without :) I hope my boys can have the same attitude as you, they have all started retirement planning early so compound interest can do it's thing.

[@jessicabarone6729]

Great video! You are all very talented. I love seeing everything you accomplish on your stunning piece of property. Keep us updated on all your interesting projects!

[@neoanderson726]

I am amazed there are people who are not living now because they are hoping to get everything they really want to do when they retire . No guarantee they will get to retire, or if they will be alive , or healthy enough when they retire . My brother died in his late 50's never got to enjoy all the money he paid into his retirement sooooo

[@rickyanderson6805]

Consider a Berm home 3 sides underground

[@barbhopell1649]

I enjoy so very much to hear about your journey. Learn so much from you!

[@tracieschrock9519]

you're doing just fine by your kids..keep it up

[@simplyfromscratchrecipes]

If I could physically handle having a homestead, I would so be doing it right now. Absolutely keep going with your goals at your age, you will be so glad that you did! I can look back now and wish I would've had a clearer idea of the things I really wanted, like property, a large garden, to be away from people, lol, so I could have made it happen. We are still hoping to have the property, but the housing market is terrible and we are not giving up our low interest rate. You guys are doing great and no way are you lazy!! I think people are so conditioned to see things just one way that they cannot understand that not everyone fits into that mold they want to put everyone in, nor do they want to be.

[@myday2704]

You are far from lazy. You work hard constantly with all your various projects. Your kids would be happier and healthier than most American kids with your lifestyle. Your family is thriving and you have a cool horse!

[@solarcabin]

20+ years off grid and you don't have to go without modern conveniences to live off grid. You just use alternative systems like solar and wind power and septic tanks, rain water collection or a well. No reason to be uncomfortable living off grid. I have most modern appliances, indoor plumbing, internet and phone and run a business online. I just don't have house payments and utility bills.