Building a Timber Frame Wood Foundation for a Log Cabin in a Severe Thunderstorm | OFF GRID

I build timber pillars for my log cabin in the worst thunderstorm I have ever witnessed in the forest.
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[@richardthornhill4630]

A lot of patience demonstrated. Patience with the weather, patience moving the heavy timbers, patience with the amount of soil having to be moved, patience with Callie, and patience with self to persevere to finish. Good job.

[@robertwoods3479]

great job man

[@josephlareau5726]

patience with the insects

[@patriciabarnes7034]

Shawn, is a master teacher. I've learned so much from watching him.

[@VCthaGOATdunker]

@@forabuck380 He has said before that he does not look at himself that way.

[@VCthaGOATdunker]

@@forabuck380 Any grown man who has to have another man to call his "master" has some major issue to sort out in his life. And yes you literally see him as your master you've made that clear.

[@richardnhimbe5144]

This time Shawn you are building a magnificent cabin, just by the looks of the foundation. Love it. Watching you for more than two years now; from Zimbabwe, Africa.

[@trisho.8331]

@Richard Nhimbe. Tatende! Great to see a fellow Zimbabwean here. It’s pouring rain in SW USA today with all the lightening and thunderstorms I recall from my childhood. Homesick for the bush and my beloved homeland. 👌👍

[@evangelista3776]

@@trisho.8331 This guy is. In Canada, not US.

[@jimburge5298]

@@evangelista3776 I think Trish is saying she is in the US and it’s raining where she is.

[@rover5788]

@@jimburge5298 Yes and she's probably from Zimbabwe too. :)

[@anoopnathwani7536]

another fellow from continent of AFRICA awesome !!! lots of love from Nairobi Kenya 🇰🇪 mr Shawn and his family including the furry ms cali are just out of this world looking forward for the end product of his final cabin called #“CALI’S HOME CABIN” #CHC god bless them !!! 🙏

[@sinranbi]

The way Cali balanced herself on the log was absolutely brilliant....

[@trisho.8331]

Yes, like walking a tight rope but secure knowing Shawn was there to protect her and welcome her back into the canoe with his heartwarming smile. Got all choked up over that. The pure love and trust these two share makes me smile in every video, though this one was extra special.

[@jackiereeves9280]

The expression its a dogs life fits Cali to a t. Dont think its possible for a dog to be more happy. Wonder what she dreams about when she finally collapses for the day! Fantastic work as always on the new cabin. Its going to be huge compared to the last one. May God bless your comings and goings from this family home for years to come. Thanks for sharing

[@bobobrien8968]

Just when I think your videos can’t get any better…. Thank you for sharing your piece of heaven.

[@michaeljoseph2798]

Hardest working guy in the northern hemisphere. Getting ready to sell our house in the burbs and move out to the country with some land to play with. You better believe there will be a spot somewhere on my property that will be reserved for me building a livable structure that I'm sure will annoy my wife🙃. Thanks for your inspiration and sharing your talents with all of us Shawn!

[@ruththomas6361]

I live in a temperate rain forest, and a tourist asked me once if it rained much. Our course that day it was, as it had the day before, and the day before. . . . . I asked her in return, "Is it green?" And she looked around at forests and bushes and flowers and. . . . . green. As for me, I'll take the rain any day. I love the rain. I love green.

[@ericplatt5749]

I have such huge respect for you. In our world today you don't see very many self-sufficient men especially young men who are willing to bust ass pardon my language to achieve goals. You are out there alone working extremely hard to complete your projects no whining no bitching just head down pushing forward to complete what you set out to do. I wish you all the luck and good fortune you deserve. I've learned so much from watching you. Not just in the way of building and crafting but of heart and soul and dedication of man living the way he wants to and loves to. God bless and thank you!!!!

[@heatherclayton-callaghan4270]

@MySelfReliance . I'm ever so happy you have virtually been made to build your family homestead here Shawn. Sharing this beautiful site with bubbling brooks and wind rushing thru the trees; this is THEE place to to live & share with your wife and girls. Not to mention the meandering River in the valley. It's your own special piece of paradise, hidden away from noise and bustle of people going nowhere. You are truly blessed, you reap what you sow.

[@michaellyons5208]

I appreciate that the end music was ALSO underwater. Nice touch.

[@167curly]

Congratulations on seeing your rain water catchment system working. There is something cozy being out of the weather on such days. Please keep out of Dad's way, Cali when he's hauling around those heavy timbers! That work must be way better than a gym membership.... lifting, hauling bending, pushing, digging, chopping etc, and of course, throwing an orange toy. Then the companionship of a paddle on the lake is always pleasant to relax too. You have an enviable life, Shawn.

[@MrCow579]

Nobody gonna notice how shawn changed the music when he put his camera under water? The amount of detail.. even in his video's. It's awesome!

[@annerodriguez4470]

I have never seen anyone work as hard as you. Take care

[@Al.W7263]

Beginning to think that's a Canuck retrieving boomerang you have there Shawn. Every time you throw it away it comes back with a dog. Thanks for the video.

[@annotten7413]

Such a underrated comment 😂

[@lea801]

That's funny😁

[@RatdogDRB]

There's that sweet girl ! Always at the ready with that bumper to "help" throughout the day. And her reward, riding in the canoe with dad. No happier dog alive.

[@craig5477]

Shawn’s work ethic inspires me to get up off my duff & get on with my projects. Watching the work & listening to the explanations for why it’s being done a certain way shows just how much thought & analysis has gone into his work. To be able to objectively visualize what’s needed to arrive at a desired conclusion is a remarkable talent. Couple that with a strong work ethic & remarkable things happen. Must be very rewarding.

[@mr.smitty1993]

I have a major problem. Shawn inspires me to do things, but then I just keep watching his videos instead of doing things. 😂

[@trisho.8331]

@@mr.smitty1993 haha, I’m so addicted to MSR, once I get the notification, I immediately set about getting my daily chores done then gleefully anticipate the reward for my meager efforts so I can watch Shawn’s videos after dinner. I watch at least 2 vids every night, even old ones, as they’re like a soothing balm for my soul.

[@michalsaridshwartz2015]

Me too

[@MarySmith-gu5nb]

Oh it was so dear to see sweet wet little Cali navigating the stream!

[@wendygreene9741]

I'm glad that you are being carefully supervised by your furry foreman Cali.😁

[@Dkapparel23]

Best show on KZbin hands down!! Can’t wait till he gets the cabin going full go!! Keep up the good work Shawn!!👏🏻👏🏻

[@patsygrace2561]

Could watch this scenery all day long. Realize it’s not conducive to getting your job done, but it’s so peaceful.

[@marianfrances4959]

This is an amazing build to watch, Shawn. I feel guilty sitting here, enjoying coffee, and not offering to help! You have given us all so much. Thank you for that. 👍😎🌱🌲⭐🏅🐾🌱🇨🇦💜✌💜💜💜

[@debweissler7808]

Leave it to a Golden to be fascinated by rain drops!

[@TheSurfskidude]

My favorite scenes are always of you and Calli hanging out. The canoe scene is one of my favorites! Two buds hanging out. Enjoy your times together.

[@thizizliz]

I dont know which I enjoy more; building or nature. They are both important parts of the whole thing really. You wouldn't be building if the beauty and gifts of nature didn't call you so strongly. Thank you for another great video.

[@davidnoelfranks1124]

I would like to know what Mr James has for Breakfast to give him those amounts of Energy......He is a living Advertisement for whatever it Is !

[@christinefox9075]

The storm, the beauty, the tranquility, hard work, the dedication will all pay off. And Callie is just icing on the cake. Thank you for another amazing video. Looking forward to the next one.

[@TheDuskwhales]

The ending of this video is truly spectacular!

[@earlenepeterson8065]

Thanks for letting us tag along on your journey. Calli is so patient. The wonder of the reward. Such joy!

[@jerrysims7900]

Love a good storm, thank you for recording it...

[@nanigoose]

I love thunderstorms but have had only ONE real storm this year in northern Illinois. Mother Nature is telling us something. The call of the Sandhill Cranes is lovely!

[@iseiyoulaitre]

Love the pooch

[@chrispercell6873]

The last couple minutes brought me a lot of peace and serenity, thank you for that. The build is coming right along. I think you’ll make it before winters chill starts to set in.

[@hellshade2]

i don't know if he can finish before it starts getting cold. he mainly only has his foundation set and he is in Canada. the cold comes earlier up north.he can see snow coming in late October...

[@chrispercell6873]

@@hellshade2 That’s true. I was thinking along a more southerly timeline where you could get into November before the snow sets in. If we say he’s got till October than yes the clock is ticking. If he stays motivated and focused on it he will make it.

[@hellshade2]

@@chrispercell6873 i don't think we see quite as many people as focused and motivated as Shawn is.

[@patriciabeyer7824]

The cabin build is coming along. 👍 Cali is looking good. I love the sound of thunder and rain.❤️ Be well. 👍🙏☝️🙌

[@timothyrhoads5634]

Shawn James I wish I was 30 years younger and could be there to help you. You are truly an amazing outstanding person . Your ability has no ending. I could learn so very much from you. Thank you for the videos because I look every day for them. 😊👍🏻🇺🇸🇨🇦

[@denisemeredith2436]

That storm was a storm and a half - I confess to letting out a little yelp when that lightning bolt hit. I am glad you are not being plagued by flies. Lovimg the nature and kayaking footage - I am always scanning for wildlife.

[@jackyoungblood8011]

The old property was great, this one is out of this world.

[@johntripp2028]

You know what I love seeing. Cali growing and maturing. She's no longer that crazy pup. But she is still ready to chase that dummy

[@andrewsims5324]

Love the Canadian weather

[@kingrafa3938]

Yes another video from My Self Reliance. I like a longer video from this channel just like this one, a 45 mins long 👍🇵🇭

[@MrLittlelud4]

The life of Riley . Great quote .

[@DaleBauer1]

It is truly amazing how much has already been accomplished by a single person in such a short time on the cabin build and the other structures on the new site. The amount of work ahead seems daunting but obviously if you are truly motivated there is no task too large. Thanks for taking the time to document and share. I am very excited to be able to watch your dream become a reality.

[@CoroaEntertainment]

He's had help. Watch the videos on the greenhouse build.

[@jeanblythe1595]

@@CoroaEntertainment That was only for a few days, on something he could not do himself, and when he does have help he more than pulls his own weight in the task. 99% of the time, he does things on his own.

[@ohiorivervalleyhomestead]

Shawn, my German Shepherd recently realized that Callie was in TV, when I watch your videos, Annie tries to have conversations with Callie. When Callie runs off screen, Annie will go looking for her friend.

[@laurafedora5385]

Aww ha ha I have a GSD as well, they are the best! 🐶 ♥️

[@malumoteki3021]

Foficeeeeee. 😍❤🐶

[@goldenrays522]

I love what you did with the background music when you went underwater. Premium editing skills.

[@nick.caffrey]

So very true!

[@MichaelJosephJr934]

Be careful with the upcoming heat this week Shawn. We need you! 💙🐶👨‍🔧

[@Kathiewinkle]

Thank you Shawn ! What a wonderful world you bring to us here on this KZbin channel

[@loishuckleby526]

For awhile I can enjoy your videos and forget about everything else thank you.🙂✌️

[@chieflt3671]

Great job living off the land this should be the way of everyone.

[@JimRodgers]

I've gotta admit: I'm jealous of Callie. She's living a dog's life in a Canadian wilderness, and she has a front row seat to watching you work. ;) Exciting to see your new cabin take shape.

[@neildonohoe1963]

Beautiful images, great camera work. Stunning. This could have been one of those natural history productions by the BBC but it's just one man's work.

[@judestewart3955]

You won’t be short of water for a while! The cabin is slowly taking shape and love watching our progress.

[@judestewart3955]

Sorry, meant your progress

[@TheKnacklersWorkshop]

Hello Shawn, Fabulous progress, well done... I guess the big rains did ensure the backfilling did settle, so maybe a blessing in disguise. Have a good weekend. Paul,,

[@jacqulinejackson4822]

Nature so healing, coloring of sky wow, award winning

[@genefoust5569]

A another great video in the wilderness cabin building thanks a whole lot🦌⛈🛶

[@OralSurgeonRider]

I was stressed out!!! came to your channel and watch the whole video and relaxed me like a little kid without worries!!!! Thank you so much!!

[@janettelworth9398]

Oh how exciting Shawn. You're raising the log cabin walls. I know you will not disappoint us with it's coziness and large porch. I'd want a porch all the way around but that's just my dream. So excited to see what you do. Also, great nature shots! You're so talented. I love the perfect tree. A tree no one has ever touched, no branches missing or scars of any kind. I used to sketch them. Love watching everything you do. Have a good weekend too.

[@johnh7455]

Well I guess I know who wants a like from Shawn 😂

[@gabrielbock967]

I just love this 45 min video format.Gives me time to take a beer while watching you working....lol.Just love it.

[@MsSherryjh]

Love the way the "silent" film allows us to better understand the ecosystems.

[@patriciabarnes7034]

Aaa, my Friday fix... Hey Shawn and Cali 👋, I see its still raining there. Awfully hot and dry this end, after days of rain a week or so ago... Back to watch late. UK.

[@1957jmhiser1]

Very nice that you explain things, such as putting a space between the 4ft pillars to prevent rot.

[@bobbiemooser7417]

I could listen to the rushing streams 24 hours. The lush green forest of ferns, grasses and majestic trees produce a meditative calmness to my soul. Thankyou for sharing your paradise, Shawn. Your videos are truly amazing.

[@polyprinz]

It always brings a smile to my face when I see Callie, what a sweetheart!

[@jalpa9642]

I love how Cali is so agile and graceful walking along a downed log in the water and easily steps from the Log into the Canoe slowly as to not disrupt the Canoe Balance...! She's an Awesome pooch..! Also I like how you Shawn thinks things out...and explain why, mastering the Forest and building another Log Cabin.... that'll endure probably for ever.....? =)

[@hellshade2]

with the size of the timbers he is using and how he has prepared them it would not surprise me if that cabin is still there 200 year from now as long as there is someone there to care for it as well.

[@HappyGirl4666]

I can’t wait to see how beautiful this cabin is.

[@lcmmassa8571]

Yes, I agree Natural Law is Soverign and Always In Control! Thank you for the refreshing reminder of the rain.🍃

[@bobbynash282]

Im stuck this morning being sick. An l surely need this to pick me up. A extremely hard working man. Dont know how you find the time but thanks.

[@brendakilberg5727]

Good morning from British Columbia. What a view off your front porch for morning coffee! I'm envious of the rain! BC desperately needs some! Beautiful video as always..

[@dorafurness466]

Sound of the creek so relaxing.

[@hellshade2]

love the parts where he is just showing things like that and his choice of music with it makes it so much more relaxing

[@loocuss722]

Take only for what you need. Work for what you need. Appreciate the moment you're in, you'll never get it back.

[@terrikopke5026]

I tune in to watch Cali. Not a dog person, but she is the best. Love that she loves her toy so much .

[@lewiskemp5893]

My golden loved his sticks. When he was a puppy he dragged back a huge branch 4 times his size.

[@heatherclayton-callaghan4270]

Terri Kopke I find that astounding. That you are alive at a time when you can watch one of the greatest men of SELF RELIANCE at work and you tune in for a dog !!! I'm gob smacked !!! The Spirit, mind and body of this man stands shoulders above thousands in this world. He has the attributes of the early settlers of his nation and most westernised nations , and CHOOSES to embrace the challenges of planning, building, planting, etc etc with methods and tools we have cast off in the hundreds , and he shows the way of history is still accomplishable in this day and age !!! There are so many facets of this man and his journey that could be taught in our schools, that would equip our children to be far greater human beings than we have now. I've lived long enough to to know that men like Shawn a exceedingly rare. I hope you can look beyond your pet infatuation and see what is really going on here in these videos. I for one see the dog when the master throws a stick or its training hunting tool but I see this human and the nature he works in , up front and personal. His choice to work with , for, and in nature, to maintain the greatest balance for all is a remarkable attribute ; which he has obviously chosen to hone as he proceeds thru this phase of his life. Soooooooooo much and many learning from one man's journey !!! I stand in awe !!!!!

[@KMaC-wt9lr]

In this time when there are those who feel the need to leave this earth to find achievement and satisfaction - you sir have trumped them in spades! 👍

[@susanbarbar1557]

The amount of sheer pysical work you do,hauling logs,is amazing

[@emilyneal7888]

Hasn’t the rain been relentless? Wish we could share it with those who need it.

[@bluebird1239]

I wonder if a water pipeline across a country would work?

[@jmar665]

OMG. Are you physically and mentally strong. Amazing. A lesser man would of given up a long time ago.

[@iremun]

there maybe severe thunder storms but it's always beautiful up in the Canadian north , just relax have a beer and take it all in . CHEERS Shawn

[@ArtByHazel]

It’s good to see the beauty of nature and a man’s hard work coming to life.

[@robinmoore5181]

How can you thumbs down this guy and his Callie, so much amazement, so thank you Shawn. 🌸

[@johnlangevin708]

I love the incongruity of hand hued charred timber and the blueskin sheeting...

[@BreachBreachBreach]

This whole episode made my back hurt.

[@hellshade2]

i could not even think about doing this cabin building like shawn. my back has been killed from 32 years as an auto mechanic and degenerative disc disease. it hurts just to stand a lot of the time...

[@heatherclayton-callaghan4270]

@@hellshade2 I hear you. Been on pain meds for 20yrs with my back and sciatica!!!! I'm able to rest more now I've finished raising my departed son's son, his only child. Things we do by Gods grace , as we reap what we've sown. Lying flat on my right side is my only place of refuge from pain. Makes these gorgeous videos even more enthralling to immerse myself in.

[@hellshade2]

@@heatherclayton-callaghan4270 the back pain is bad but recently i have been getting bad sciatica in the right leg. the doctor sent me for an M.R.I. and told me i have bad spinal stenosis now from L5 through L3. going to try the epidurals one last time but the first two times did not help. if it does not help this time they are talking surgery and that is not an option for me just yet....

[@adbc8737]

I am amazed by what one human being is able to accomplish….. Take care Shawn James! 🌀❤️🌀

[@ulysses2162]

I know you have said that you don't see yourself as a teacher, but watching your videos really inspires me to do something more with my life. Your videos also calm me in a way nothing else does, it's hard to really describe. Thank you Shawn, and God bless you, your family, and not forgetting your beautiful doggo Cali. 🙂😊🥰 *Edit*: The new build is coming a long really nice. I look forward to seeing the finished result.

[@Gordonseries385]

Thank you for sharing. I swear I can smell the ozone here, the thunder sound awesome.

[@weirdmatter]

That is a peaceful spot, glad your making progress on the new cabin.

[@marjiebuckner2485]

Best pillar footing you could have made, great weight distribution.Should last forever especially In the type of sandy ground you have.

[@nancyroland6503]

I envy you! I’m 83 and have camped in places like you are going to live. Loved every trip we took. God bless you in all you work, and keep you safe.

[@haroldstange6658]

Sue here, it looks as if you have found paradise on earth you are so very lucky to have such a Beautiful place to call Home, Glad to see cali is looking well, God be with you!

[@bendelliott]

The physical benefit of building timber pillars = Shawn amasses the strength of a timber pillar.

[@williammorris9270]

Shawn is doing his things and enjoying it, he’s letting us see his successes also thanks.

[@christineingram55]

It’s slowly starting to look like your new homes coming along.You have been held up so much with the rain this last few weeks.Hopefully it will get a bit better soon.And here I am hoping it rains soon just for cooler weather in the U.K. lol! I don’t like the heat at all and it’s been very hot for us lately.Oh my gosh you never cease to amaze me with your scenic video at the end ..When your own little Pocahontas sits in the front of your kayak and leads you on your adventure.She even did some scouting today too lol.Cali is such a great companion for you .You don’t realise how dense the trees are until you see them from above..It’s just so beautiful and I know you know and appreciate how Lucy you are to be able to be one with these surroundings .Love n Light to you both 🥰

[@HappyGirl4666]

What a visual poet.

[@trudyschaffer8016]

Another masterpiece. What is it about this guy that has us riveted on each shovel full of dirt, each nail he pounds.. I find it incredible that he has our attention at this level. This entire story is so dynamic. Can’t wait to see what he has planned for the next timber. 🌲

[@patriciamoody3137]

Outro music was beautiful, worthy of the scenery! Another fine video, Shawn.

[@sweetteame6814]

Beautiful, can you imagine the girls friends asking what dies your Mom and Dad do? My Dad Is Shawn James. Hold up the Shawn James . Now my kids ask me what I was watching I told them they had the same response. That man is a beast. All I can say is your Truly Blessed. Prayers to you and your family and Cali. Wish you could build us a cabin. How epic would that be. Keep cool up there in Canada in that heat wave. 🙏🏼♥️🥰🐾🐾🐾🐾

[@Trinity4me]

Shawn you’re one blessed dude, and your cinematic skills are becoming equally as impressive as your building skills. Hats off my friend. Thank you for another truly enlightening and enjoyable video. It brought peace to my soul.

[@johnh7455]

Is everyone on this trying to suck up to him or what

[@GRomanini1717]

Hope from now on you can make the cabin you always wished and deserve after all the situation you have passed through. Follow you since the beginning. Greetings from Brazil

[@blackholebrugmans-lambrech7672]

Besides the hard and great work you are achieving, in each video my happy moments are to see Cali bringing you her toy and you throwing it, maybe you are or not aware of that but she's starring in each video and she part of the adventure and seeing her growing getting older it's just amazing the bound between the two of you and that makes me happy for her too

[@MrGetzenwithit]

The shot of the end-grain of that wood soaking up the liquid was mesmerizing!

[@paulner3]

These carpentry kind of videos are my favorite. You have real skill!

[@rodneywroten2994]

ON time line 29:00 I had to stop video to go 25 miles to town to get meds. Could not wait to get back to finish it. I could watch his video all day. love his nature videos

[@greenlanternseven]

Sung to the melody of Barry Manilow ' s Coco Bana ...His name is Shawn James ; He's an outdoorsman; He will build himself a hut and never get into a rut ; He loves his dog; her name is Cali ; She will dive into the lake and Shawn will soon then bake a cake ; Using Bear grease ; That stuff is awesome; Used for so much different stuff ; Surely Shawn can't get enough ; Lol hee hee hee

[@FidoHouse]

Copa Cubana

[@greenlanternseven]

Correctumundo

[@markbarbdearman2157]

That was great!

[@larryscarr3897]

Been off grid myself for two years now, it's 100 times harder then I thought .. I'm 46 and so physically strong now, I can not believe how healthy this life style has made me, my wife and daughter..

[@daveyjoweaver6282]

Shawn and Cali in the canoe gliding along the surface of the waters in Paradise! This reminded me so much of Dick Proenneke when he said all he could hear was his paddle cutting through the water and distant water falls. Then the vision of you writing at his desk in Alaska. The legacy continues and my Kind Thanks to The James Family! DaveyJO in Pennsylvania