First Days of Winter on the Alaskan Homestead

[@albertarose1433]

As a former Alaskan (Anchoragite) who partially heated my home with wood, you may need another cord. We were balmy compared to what you’ll experience. Can we send you things? Or do you have an Amazon wish list? I’d buy you a sled for pulling the wood now that you’ll have snow for awhile! Unless of course you want the work out. Always important to do that for Alaskans. So you stay sane. Love your videos and you’re almost at 100k! Yay! That will help a lot I’m guessing. I hope you agree to do sponsorships for products you believe in. We’re in a different time than when your parents started. Really expensive now and even more so in Fairbanks. Maybe a quad company or a sled company! Lol! Keep up the good work.

[@moe9265]

That was really nice to make that offer. I hope he takes you up on it.

[@cam-bo11]

Amazon wishlist is a great idea, as is an affiliate link

[@GrannyS217]

He needs a fork too! I noticed a plastic one with tines missing!

[@robertgraves3215]

This is a good man right here. They ARE out there. Kudos.

[@susampson278]

whats a quad co?

[@mikewilcox384]

Video ideas: 1. A walk around all of your property. Show the views from the N,S,E,&W. 2. Discuss what your your spring plans are. IE A garden, a well, toilet/shower issues. 3. After reviewing of the comments about your cabin, discuss what you plan to do in the near and middle future. 4. What is a shopping trip like? How far, how expensive? 5. You plan for bear visits. Great job on the videos. You're going to make it through the winter. Decide not to quit and you won't.

[@amywert8088]

Agreed! And what about winterizing the car?

[@_Its_Ya_Boy]

Video idea- Give us a video of you picking out an actual defense weapon past a hammer, even a cheap and old double 12 gauge would be good for the time being, pawn shops would be good. More than that, maybe making candles and the like to save on generator fuel (you are just using that right?)

[@delonaszlavik1174]

When you get the money, a Front porch/ deck would look nice for your home. You are doing a fabulous job. Please be safe around bears and alert ..

[@ReRe-wd5sz]

Lovely!

[@oldladylinda]

He is an intelligent young man. He has lived this life in Alaska all his life. He will get things done in his own time. Let him make his own decisions.

[@Bushradical]

Nice job son!

[@janamunden1970]

He has good teachers ( you are your wife) he'll do great. He learned from you and Brooke

[@chancepaladin]

great inspiring channel :D

[@eliazarshaw2213]

I had heard you mention that your son has a channel on YT. So while browsing through, his channel was recommended and began watching. When he placed the bacon on the stove I figured he was your big boy.

[@backroadsusa6915]

@catmindy2187 well it's about his life from his perspective. And it is his Adventure. He's 18 years old what were you doing at 18 years old? Your comment comes off as you projecting your own faults. You might want to take a long hard look in the mirror and at your own life before you tear down somebody else. Nobody is tying you to a chair watching these videos...

[@DaisyJ73]

​@catmindy2187 do you watch to criticize? Of course the videos are about him. Is there something else you'd like to see? He did ask for suggestions. He's a young man trying to discover life. Did you have it figured out when you were 18? He's done more than a lot of kids his age I know.

[@clintonroushff7068]

As a dad, please stay safe. You are on an adventure... Thanks for bringing us along

[@TheConceptBoy]

The reason the stove piles smoke out into the cabin in the beginning is because there's a cold air table within your exhaust vent that is preventing smoke from rising up and out the house. Remember hot air goes up, cold air comes down. It's something they teach you in one of them pesky schools :P hehe. But anyways. If the gradient is high enough the cold air triumphs and pushes any heat or smoke that tries to rise up, acting like a cork in your vent. You gotta break through that cold air blockade first. Before lighting up the stove all the way, you can fire up a small bundle of newsprint or paper and hold it right up the ventilation port within the stove, in order to have it's hot air rise and push the cold air out of the way. then you can light up the whole stove.

[@amywert8088]

They don't teach that in any school I ever went to! I learned here on KZbin, I imagine his folks would have taught him.

[@albertogonzalez7631]

Florida education system teaches that but I’m always confused on what cold air their talking about lol it’s always hot here

[@russtgrower750]

Mostly agree but the main idea is to clear the roof with your high point. His 90 out the wall and up is his issue and will get much worse as it gets cold and windy. Straight up out the roof and at least 2 ft above the highest point will solve 99% of his problem. A vacuvent will cure the rest.

[@SueLewisBuffalo]

You post whatever you want, whenever you want. We'll be here. Love the cabin. ❤

[@kenhartman9981]

Hi my friend how are you doing today 😊❤

[@aletageer6911]

My thoughts exactly!

[@aletageer6911]

The simple things of life is so amazing! I get it! I have power but not running water. No indoor toilet…..hahaha. Ask those who have had their plumbing freeze up at minus 40. No thanks!

[@loda9510]

Video on how you put tin on the side and behind the wood stove so it doesn't catch the wall on fire! You could bales of straw around the base of the cabin to keep out the cold and keep the floor warmer.

[@UncaDave]

Great ideas!

[@esholty3368]

Absolutely! I was about to type the same two suggestions. Please get something around that stove. And straw is a great cheap insulator. And if no wood shed, how about a tarp over the wood?

[@bengtthulin6026]

I'm going to suggest that you stack your firewood right next to your cabin. When the Alaskan deep snow hits you do not want to have to dig your firewood out of a snow drift some distance from your cabin. You should stack it up on the south side of your cabin where the sun will hit the firewood stack and help keep it from freezing together.

[@mikehunt4797]

Ya and actually go get his own wood.

[@ZippedUpKitz]

@@mikehunt4797he has a lot of his own wood… but it needs to dry out…. No shame in buying a cord or two… he's doing a great job for being an 18 year old,kid on his own!

[@bonniest.pierre2045]

3:54 ​@@ZippedUpKitz

[@ZippedUpKitz]

@@bonniest.pierre2045 ummmm…. Ok? Your point?????????

[@jimtoohey7242]

Wood pile next to house brings in mice/shrews. Trust me.

[@marvine7396]

Hi Mick! So glad to see you again! My thought for you, Electric Blanket! Ash Bucket for your stove is something I'm sure you have. Stay packed up with dry beans, rice, sugar, Self rising flour & oil. Please stay safe, world is at war. So glad Cabin's finished enough to live in. Praying for you.❤✝️

[@sarahko2014]

I don't think he has electricity...he's off-grid, right?

[@marvine7396]

@@sarahko2014 He has electric. He has 2 lamps that are plugged into outlets. Then in past video's he mentions if he runs out of firewood that he has electric. At least that's what I heard & saw.

[@sarahko2014]

@@marvine7396 Ahh..okay. I missed that I guess.^^ In that case, an electric blanket sounds great!👍

[@sodobson]

Just stay warm and eat well. Everything else will fall into place. keep up the good work young man. I hope my son does something like this and just “goes for it’’… when he’s 18. Proud of ya.

[@AShroudOfTruth]

For one still so young, you're doing a great job. Kudo's to Mom and Dad for raising such a good young man.

[@jessicawright3290]

Hey Mick! This may make you cringe but... I'm proud of you and what you're accomplishing! Maybe it's because I'm the mother of 3 sons that i have that parental proud feeling when watching what your doing. As for your stove...our little camp cabin did that smoke billowing thing on us last winter. Ours is set like yours, through the wall. We had a low pressure front and our stove pipe didn't completely clear our roof height. From what I read, that combo can cause the stove not to draw the smoke. So, we started leaving our door a little bit open when we build a fire and that little bit extra of air flow helped the stove to draw a better and not smoke us out. It only happened once, so i think it was the low pressure. If you'll notice outside that wood smoke is not really rising and is mostly falling towards the ground, that's a low pressure situation. There may be other ways to tell, but that's one that I know. A little flashing around your stove is a good idea. Maybe a piece of scrap from your metal roofing? Cheers from NC!

[@kenhartman9981]

Hi Jessica where are you from?

[@jessicawright3290]

@@kenhartman9981 North Carolina

[@kenhartman9981]

@@jessicawright3290 Nice place I live in Oklahoma City but I’m currently working here in Syria… So are you originally from North Carolina?

[@kenhartman9981]

@@jessicawright3290 Hi Jessica how are you doing today. I hope you’re having a blessed day?

[@kenhartman9981]

@@jessicawright3290 Hi my friend how are you doing today

[@TheSimpleAlaskans]

Glad to see you have something besides Ramen. Bacon and eggs are life! Video ideas: First real winter storm, and your thoughts about it. Water collection/storage. (how you do it) Calling your parents to keep them from worrying. (The mama in me just had to go there... sorry🤣) Shots of the Lights when they come out. Finding the drafts in the cabin (and what your solution is to fixing them) Finishing the ceiling. Where did you get the wood from, and what was the cost? (everyone likes a price comparison) We are rooting for you, and we are betting that you WILL make it through the winter! (just keep stock of that bacon)

[@sandrasherritt9708]

And get some beans and rice! Goes a long way in the nourishment department!😊

[@mygarden365]

and fresh tortillas

[@aperson2818]

Hey, I'm not anywhere close to being in Alaska, but we use wood for heating as well and I have a tip since you don't have a woodshed (yet). Tarps are your friend! Just put a tarp or two on your pile of wood and it won't be covered in snow (or water once it melts), and it'll lower the chances of the liquid to put out your fire. Great video, excited to see how you handle the winter months! :D

[@a.p.5429]

I use tarps too. 👍

[@SPQR-Z]

Your wood stove/fuel is the most important thing in your life right now. 2 chords probably isn’t enough. Agreed get that wood covered or you’ll be fighting it all winter. Best to get your wood supply cut/stacked in the spring and let it dry all summer. Next season maybe. Good luck

[@flowergurlwlr]

yes I was wondering why he did not cover his wood pile so young and soo much to learn

[@kathleenthom3668]

@@a.p.5429😊

[@DebbiePotter-xh7kv]

That was my first thought

[@EmilyAllan]

I'm a mom and admire your strength and determination to make it out on your own, and the strength of your mother to let you do it without interfering. You are both strong people. I am concerned that you don't have any insulating layer between your wood stove and your interior wall. Wood stoves can get hot enough to cause spontaneous combustion. Please make it a priority to protect yourself from that happening. Thank you for your videos! I really admire you and enjoy watching you grow as a person and be self sufficient.

[@mdholley74]

I was thinking the same thing about the flashing(?) near the stove.

[@sandrasherritt9708]

Several of us have been mentioning this for a while, but no response yet! And no insulation!

[@bear1245]

He definitely knows that. Don’t worry. He’s got amazing parents/mentors.

[@josephbrown-ut9ty]

My mom runs a wood stove here in Arkansas. When we put it in she put concrete board on the walls and then put metal on that to reflect the heat back out.

[@ldsphotodude49]

I've been on an Alaskan adventure with a group of Alaskan teenage scouts and I'm convinced a guy that's grown up in Alaska is capable of making it through an Alaskan winter. I have lots of confidence in Mick.

[@brittongodman7769]

Here are a couple of ideas you may want to consider. String an elevated line [ 60 inches up, or so ] from near the front door to where you park the car. Buy an extra cord of wood when you can afford it. [[ if it is available, buy hardwood, not softwood ]] Before the snow gets too deep, turn your car around so that it faces the road. When you have the $$, stock up on some extra food --- canned goods and some basics like rice, noodles, etc. Best of luck with the Winter weather changes; I'll be watching.

[@DebbiePotter-xh7kv]

My father was always after us in the winter ti be facing out lol

[@AzBob01]

Keep living the dream, Mick. Those of us who didn't have the courage to do it when we were young can at least enjoy seeing you doing it.

[@LikeMyCommentBitch]

courage?? lol his whole life has been built on this ....i mean his parents were on ALONE. what a goober

[@BlackFire69]

I don't see it as courage. He isn't alone. He has family and friends already there to help him if things don't work out. It's not like he moved somewhere, where he's never been and has no one.

[@janeevans4758]

Your doing great 👍 those who constantly have to pull critique upon someone must live a truly lonely sad life! Ignore them!!! I'd love to know what exactly they had achieved at 18! I rest my case...be happy and live your life,your way.😊 Oh and before i forget 😂 snow ... you have snowwww incredible, its still up in 25 + deg unseasonably agreed but we dont have snow until well jan/feb and its nothing more than a scattering at best,Christmas day last year was still 15deg. It would be lovely to have the seasons arrive as they used to when i was a child.

[@kenhartman9981]

Hi Janee where are you from?😊❤

[@phantp78]

A day in the life of living off grid is all I need for videos. It doesn’t have to be a big production just keep it real.

[@thomasmurray4407]

Hello Mick sometimes the reason that a wood stove will smoke when first started up is the column of cold air in the pipe that the smoke has to overcome to make it up and out to the sky. One way to overcome this is to use something like a piece of newspaper that you put into the smoke pipe and light it to preheat the pipe and help to establish the draft. Then you light the small pile of kindling or other starter material to get the fire going. I realize that you may not have a good supply of newspaper to use for this but a little bit of good dry bark should work almost as good. I have been a wood burner since 1979 when I bought my first wood stove. Have a great day. Tom down here in Canada in the Maritimes at the NB-NS border.

[@SwitchUpYt]

1. fix the roof video. 2. A walk around the local area, shopping, fishing etc. 3. Build a Swedish hottub using the stove for heat. 4. A much extended day in the life video (30-40 mins) 5. Do you have a pet? You need a pet. 6. A live W and A.

[@sgrvtl7183]

yes - roof

[@leethalwpn]

@@DL-ep5ukthat’s the first part. The second part is the answer

[@me-l-9910]

Pretty sure that's a typo for "Q" and A. Q and W are adjacent on the keyboard.

[@cherlandry]

@@DL-ep5ukprobably meant Q and A

[@johnmacdonald2657]

Get a video of you putting a fucking heat shield on that god damn stove before you burn your shit down! Seriously dude. That is a walking nightmare for me watching you use that stove against that wall with no heat shield. The fact that you haven't burned your place to the ground yet amazes me. Please. GET A GOD DAMN HEAT SHIELD ON THAT STOVE!!

[@ritaatkins9290]

You doing a very good job keep up the good work and be safe

[@Nemesis1776FAFO]

A good video would be build a woodshed for all that wood you’re gonna need could possibly include a covered deck area from your front door to the wood shed. Keep pushing on I know you can make it through the winter if you have a PO Box it would be nice to mention so people can send you items.

[@joyswenson7941]

I second the PO Box. The mom in me wants to send him food! 😆

[@theinfinitymachine9610]

I feel bad for him eating just ramen form earlier videos. Recent food looks more wholesome--but I'd second that so we can send him some blankets or something.

[@AsIronSharpensIron]

Mick, I LOVE your attitude and outlook. Don't worry what people think. It seems you know how to find happiness and contentment with where you are and what you have. Dave and Brooke did a great job instilling that in you. Many people go a lifetime never knowing that. It's refreshing to see that in people. It is one of lifes greatest blessings.

[@barbarabell1171]

Your doing great! Learning as you go! I can imagine it feels like folks are being critical of you when they are pointing out things that should be changed, or could be done better. Most folks are trying to be helpful. You know the old saying "...you dont know what you dont know". But through trial and error, you will learn. Its not just knowing what to do, or how to do it. Sadley, it all comes down to money. Without the finances you just do the best with what you have till the right resources become available. I am worried about the woodstove so close to the wall. See if any of your friends have access to some old coragated metal. Doesn't matter how it looks...we want you to be safe!!! Cheering you on from Northern Minnesota! Keep on toiling!!!!

[@peterivan22]

Just a suggestion, when you mentioned the roof isn't done, an easy temporary "cheap" fix would be putting a tarp or two over it for the winter, as it would keep leaks from getting in. Also, depending on how expensive it is, may want to consider putting a tarp or poly over the wood to keep snow off. I know the floor is insulated, however, as cold as it is going to get there, have you considered putting poly around the base of the cabin and down to the ground? Would block wind from blowing under the cabin, or you could also use pine boughs and then bank the cabin where there is enough snow - and that would be FREE! Awesome job so far! Keep up the amazing work! ✌️

[@ErnestTheObserver]

This reminds me of when we used to go to nearby woods and build "houses" to hang out when we were the kids, we were three best friends, 14 year old boys, sneaking away with a saw, an axe or a hammer with some nails cutting some small trees down and building a shed in the middle of woods. I am still amazed none of us got injured. Had the time out our lives though. These videos makes me feel like someone else managed to accomplish the dream we had as kids, building a house and living in the woods all by themselves.

[@aaaaarrrrrggggghhhh]

me and my friends did this too lol, it was an amazing way to grow up imo

[@cliffordwright342]

@@aaaaarrrrrggggghhhhI’m 73 and still building forts

[@CMoore8539]

@@cliffordwright342I used to build treehouses everywhere! My uncle was a carpenter and my cousins used to help me. So fun!!

[@amywert8088]

Yes! Treehouses! @@CMoore8539

[@trustme2674]

i envy you my boy, i really do. thank you for sharing your experiences and keep up the good work!

[@marciacoughlin2342]

Will you be adding tin/metal panels on wall around woodstove? I always see it, wood wall protection. You've accomplished so much, done so well, it's heartwarming to follow your journey. 😊

[@cathtf7957]

No, he has fire insurance.

[@bill8002]

yes yes you should protect your walls from extreme temps. Safer for you my friend and the cabin. You have done well show us more please.

[@Calif-]

Hello, I just found your subscription and I’ve subscribed. It’s very enjoyable, simple and I can tell you’re sincere and genuine. In these days it is wonderful to see someone struggling to beat the rat race and to get away from this stifling authority sucking the life out of people. At 67 and retired, I’m an old gal with a home in California and for several years now I’ve been learning off grid living. I enjoy it immensely but thankfully it’s been a slow journey helping me to mentally get behind these new changes that must occur, I often was overwhelmed. As we all know now society is spiraling down and is very undependable. A sled for yourself to cart wood and heavy objects is a great idea. Please consider since a woodstove is so vital to your warmth, invest in several feet of insulating cord and the glue for your woodstove door. I haven’t used the HVAC in several years depending solely in the winter on my woodstove. And when that special cording on your woodstove door begins decaying or the glue unhinges the cord, the smoke starts seeping from your stove. So I have plenty of new cord and glue in case that happens to me again. God bless you honey, be safe And looking forward to your next video.

[@DustyBottomBoysAK]

Good to see you're doing well, Mick. You got your stovepipe changed out, you found yourself some eggs and bacon, and some wood to chop. You have a good life, my friend. The stove randomly billowing out smoke is probably due to wind blowing down your chimney. Stay safe and enjoy! Looking forward to more. -Dusty

[@jimmyfiscus1977]

Hi Mick! Happy for you! Maybe get yourself a radio to kill the quiet? Or start writing a book and talk to the viewers as you do. Lots of great suggestions here from the viewers! You should try them all, for what I see shown in just the few of the last suggestions. God Bless Ya! You're doing Great! Definitely need tarp or make your own woodshed, tin behind stove, and some sort of air flow regulator to keep the smoke from choking you out. Most likely need 2 more cords of wood, if not more?

[@kenhartman9981]

Hi jimmy where are you from?

[@jimmyfiscus1977]

@@kenhartman9981 Pennsylvania kid, not really a kid anymore (58), just in spirit, living the life in southwest Florida, raising my 2 teenagers.

[@kenhartman9981]

@@jimmyfiscus1977 Okay that’s good to know. I live in Oklahoma City but I’m currently working here in Syria…..

[@kenhartman9981]

@@jimmyfiscus1977 How’s everything going over there?

[@kenhartman9981]

@@jimmyfiscus1977 Hi my friend how are you doing today

[@rachaelbuckmaster2459]

Those who are critical are usually the ones who would never jump to a challenge. You've got this!! Keep going

[@CScott-wh5yk]

He literally put the door on his house backwards, which will trap him inside in a blizzard. Criticism could save his life. ❤

[@sasquatchrosefarts]

How about the galvanized chimney panel on the wall? 😂😂😂😂😂😂😂 Poison. If his chimney deposits catch on fire, and they will, the galvanized plate will hit a flash point of around 600f. At which point he gets poisoned by zinc.

[@chickenleg440]

@@CScott-wh5yk he also used an interior door which has no insulation, instead of an exterior door. the pipe on his wood stove also appears to be the wrong way which is dangerous and is probably the cause of all of the smoke billowing. a smoke detector could save his life if smoke billows and floods the cabin while he sleeps. he also needs a shelter for his wood, or it'll get wet from snow and will take days to dry out and become usable. if it's cold outside, you don't have time to waste days on drying wood because wood is your heat source. criticism will save his life, if he takes the criticism seriously. edit: he did mention he has to replace the door, but that should be his top priority. edit 2: having the wood stove that close to a wood wall with no hearth or barrier or anything of the sort is a major fire hazard. It's even more concerning because it's close to the door so if a fire does happen, his only exit is blocked (besides the windows).

[@user-vi5vd3ty9d]

@@CScott-wh5yk😂😂😂😂

[@LizzyL2024]

Or maybe they are mature adults trying to offer constructive criticism to help him.

[@SouthernBelle732]

You need a dog! Best companion ever and they keep you safe, warm and laughing! Love your videos and seeing the progress and sense of humor…keep up the good work and enjoy each day!

[@suelatendresse6905]

He's already eating Ramen himself. Isn't dog food expensive?

[@carolann6072]

Ignore the nay-sayers! Those of us that appreciate what you are doing are very happy to know you are alive and well and warm and fed! Just seeing those mountains is reward enough for me. Thank you Mick!

[@artful1967]

most of us are not nay sayers we are genuinely worried about him. Some of that construction was VERY dubious and snow gets very heavy

[@gamermanzeake]

@@artful1967 The folks in the comment section bashing the "critiques" and "nay-sayers" are a part of the problem. He has maybe a six inch pitch on his roof from top to bottom across ten feet or so. If he gets that supposed twelve feet of snow, and that roof collapses, he's a dead man. The door and stove both deserve criticism as well. It is perfectly fine, understandable and even reasonable to want to live outside of government overreach and do things on your own. That is my own way as well. However, there is still always a right and wrong in every situation. Building correctly as opposed to incorrectly could save his life.

[@vetaharris9386]

@carolann6072 you say nay-sayers, I say concerned and more than likely more experienced individuals! And as a mother I can guarantee I along with many are very happy to know he is alive, well and warm and fed. What I see is a LOT of people sharing very important details of things he needs to fix and work on, so he will continue to STAY alive, well and warm and fed!

[@kermit8173]

@@gamermanzeake That is very concerning. It is irking to see someone shirk off good advice throughout every step of the process and then say its "because I want to learn on my own". I guess he will be learning if his roof collapses on him.

[@bear1245]

Some pretty patronising comments.

[@JeriStults]

Really enjoyed your video Mic. Hope you stay warm and safe

[@andytrottier2778]

I wish when I was your age I had the nards to do what you are doing. Congratulations on your achievements!! A couple of suggestions for your stove. A damper in the pipe would help you to control the fire. Second some tin, brick or stone would protect the paneling behind it. Don’t forget a smoke detector. Best of luck. Enjoy the videos

[@caronitaclark4058]

You have the perfect voice to be a narrator. And the scenery is beautiful.

[@jacktaylor1030]

Hope that's enough firer wood Mick. Keep the videos coming so you have enough money to live on. Please be careful when going on Outdoor adventures by yourself, I didn't realize how many people disappear in Alaska, with no trace of what happened to them. I watched a YT video on the Alaska Triangle, and was shocked by the numbers of people who disappear each year. Getting eaten by a big bear or whatever happens to all of the missing folks, scares the heck out of me. Brookie, & Bushy would be heartbroken if you were to come up missing, so please devise a great safety network whenever you go out in the Wilderness. A video of you walking the property lines showing the Awesome winter views would be terrific, those distant mountains are just stunning to look at.. Make longer videos, you will get better, do some hobby wood carving or whatever you enjoy doing and share that with us viewers, we all want to learn who you are young fellow. Keep up the Great work Mick!!!!!!

[@captaincrustyradio]

Great channel! The KZbin algorithm sent me here as I like self-sufficiency. I love the style of your narration on the videos! I'm an old dinosaur (almost 65), I enjoy seeing young folks with guts and a dream. My son, 31, and his wife 26, saved up, bought 14 acres, lived in a tent off-grid, then an RV off-grid for 19 months, while working full-time jobs. It pays off. Never let anyone discourage you. You are doing a great job living your best life. By 25 years old, my son knew what he didn't want to do. Yes! The faster you learn what you don't want in life, the happier you will be. Salute to you Mick, your videos will help others to wake up and live their dream. Best regards to you sir, Crusty Kirk

[@drcrocodile1]

Video ideas! *Building a woodshed. *Building an outhouse. *How are you getting your water? *What's the plan for extreme cold? *Food procurement (town run?) *Building an insulating layer around your woodstove (it's dangerously close to the wall)

[@EmilyAllan]

I said the same thing about the wood stove. I'm worried about it!

[@johneisnor]

I as well, should be 3 feet from the wall, at least that is what my inspector told me about mine

[@RayBristow]

I agree with the comments concerning the wood stove clearances to the wall and other combustibles. A simple sheet of metal with wood block stand offs would help. I live high in the West Virginia mountains. This will be my third winter.

[@stephaniecossette7491]

so nice to see your video and note your impressive progress. Keep up the good work and stay warm.. Thanks for what you do.

[@microwavefish]

Hey I'm watching from Ireland and it's scarily warm for this time of year (20 Celsius / 68 Fahrenheit which we usually only get in the summer months) but I'd say I prefer it to what you're getting out there. Glad to see you're enjoying it though, your videos are very relaxing to watch, keep up the good work :)

[@ruanvanderwesthuizen9940]

What a cool kid! Props to you bro! Not giving into the 9 to 5 mindset. You will have 1 million subs soon.

[@hildegardschumacher6302]

Ein Hund als lieben Freund würde ich als wichtig erachten

[@suezaple4950]

Hey Mick Lots of work ahead of you before winter really sets in But I am sure you will do just fine your determined, smart and have grown up around this kind of thing living with your parents who have been constructing cabins for some time. You know what has to be done and i am sure you'll get it done. Cant wait for the next video . Ontario Canada.

[@askavettech2057]

Great Job Mick!!!! your busting your butt, and it's paying off!!!! So proud of ya!!!!!

[@kenhartman9981]

Hi my friend how are you doing today ❤

[@charlesyoung3893]

You are doing great. I have faith in you. You got this.

[@kenhartman9981]

Hi charles where are you from?

[@macintoshimann9892]

I’m really looking forward to watching you this winter. I’m considering doing something similar myself. Was badly injured years ago in a car accident and it’s taken me 4 years but I’ve been learning to use my body again. Getting a second chance at life has left me really wanting a life just like this but I wanna make sure the winter won’t be too much for me😅. Ur channel is absolutely perfect for someone like me this is my new favorite show lol

[@rebelgirl7289]

Hey Mick, your cabin is looking cozy and you have some good protein for keeping you strong. Maybe you could make a little pantry of shelves for canned meat, veggies, fruit, flour, sugar, salt, freeze dried eggs, milk for cooking, and baking. Maybe even a big bag of potatoes. Keep them dark and they last. Make sure you have plenty of back ups. Take heed of advice regarding safety, please, or this will be all for nothing. Years ago up in White Cloud, MI, my dad had a shed right next to his place where he stored a few cords of wood. He had a little cupboard door that he could feed his wood into his living room from the shed and into a cardboard box. Saved steps. Reflectix on windows at night and a blanket over your door might help, too.

[@cherylt8590]

Way to go,and things are looking pretty cozy inside the cabin, keep up the good work,and the first snow❄❄ always looks so pretty and welcoming, but burr eventually lol,😉stay safe and take care Mick👍😊...

[@kenhartman9981]

Hi chery where are you from?

[@thunderusnight]

I think most people in your situation wouldn't make it through the winter. But I also think you're far more resilient and determined than most are, and if you have even half the knowledge or skill in the outdoors as your father, your survival is almost a guaranteed thing. I absolutely cannot wait to see the next video, I want a cabin like yours some day. Until then I'll just live vicariously through these amazing videos.

[@johnmacdonald2657]

And if he has trouble, it appears at 2:11 that he's just 75 feet or so from what appears to be a pretty major asphalt road.... the road by which his firewood is "delivered." Not exactly the off-grid Alaska I was thinking. LOL.

[@ep1cg4m3r69]

@@johnmacdonald2657lol I noticed that as well. its still cool to have a little homestead in alaska. but it’s definitely a well established area.

[@johnmacdonald2657]

@@ep1cg4m3r69 There are a lot of other folks who are doing this a bit more ... shall we say ... legit? and I'll follow them. This all looks a bit staged and amateur to me. (Kid's also gonna burn his whole place down if he doesn't get a heat shield on that stove! And I worry that shallow-pitch shed roof is going to collapse under the first real snow). I'm not totally on my "homestead" yet, but my acreage in Montana, at elevation 6,880 is up a five-mile two-track road. No utilities for miles. Small solar system keeps the lights on, a wood stove (with wood we cut, not have delivered) is the sole source of heat. I just can't take this very seriously.

[@house-of-angst]

His mom has incredible skills, too!

[@Old-Dog-Max]

​@@johnmacdonald2657power lines along that blacktop road too. Hardly wilderness

[@oldladylinda]

Don't apologize for anything Mick. You do what you do. And don't pay too much attention to what other people are saying about it. Its February 2024. By the end of the year I predict you will be prepared to spend the winter on your own in your own place. Keep on keeping on.

[@ConsistentImprovement]

I am pulling for you to make it through the winter. I look forward to your videos. However, as someone who has insulated and worked on keeping a house warm in one of the coldest and snowest midwest states, I worry about your warmth.❤

[@benbarnett-t1x]

Dudes living the dream! Stay safe man, and have fun.

[@Caddava]

Hi Mick, love the videos. one suggestion. get a pair of leather welding gloves to help you tend the fire. The ones iv used allowed me to reach in and move the wood while it's on fire if needed. works great for the quick reposition of the wood.

[@cokofleischer]

I would love to see a video of you speedrunning to get done all of the stuff you have been putting off. Or a mini tour of how you have your cabin set up and other things you would like to have in it.

[@loudiemer5194]

You have a great you - tube presence. Your honesty is refreshing. Just be you. Some people like to harrass, thats just who they are. Ignore. You have to do yourself to learn. You are doing great. I think people will be interested in most things you do, even the mondane. Shopping trips. Improvements. Work. Questions and answers. Good luck.

[@fredricabrown9003]

Nice to see you are enjoying your new lifestyle....! Stay warm if you can....look forward to seeing you again....😎

[@kenhartman9981]

Hi my friend how are you doing today ❤😊

[@kenhartman9981]

Where are you from?

[@brandon_burbach]

Love watching you chop the wood... tell us more about how you are going to stack it and make it accessible in the snow. :)

[@this_epic_name]

A video just walking through and around the cabin (I know it's not much) and offering commentary on what went wrong, what went right so far, and things you've got planned would be great. Honestly, things that might seem mundane or boring to you can be cool for the rest of us. :)

[@Fyve]

Very close to 100K! Hope the winter doesn't get too cold. Keep on toilin'!

[@mike.the.estimator704]

Man, you have come a long way from a wooded lot to a building! The one thing I still can't get over is you can see daylight coming into your cabin from the door at the 1:40 mark! Next time you are in town, pick up some sticky weather stripping to install around your door stops! But otherwise, it looks great, I am envious and good luck!

[@juliemoeser6145]

Love watching just what a young man can get done out in the wild!!!

[@shawnseaward6190]

Buy and i. nstall a stove pipe damper if you haven’t already, it’ll help with regulating your fire and save wood use. Get 2 more cord of wood.

[@annduke5573]

Just to good to know you're doing ok! There's no one else to please but yourself. You had good role models in your parents.

[@elizabethmckenzie6977]

Hi. I am a 76 year old women with a very adventurous spirit and I really enjoy your videos. I heated with a wood stove for almost 40 years. Here is a tip for your smoky stove. Heat up the pipes before you light your fire. A few pieces of cardboard works great. I love the sound that it makes as it rushes up the pipes. Another tip the hard to split pieces split better in really cold weather.

[@brendabown2579]

I admire your positive attitude and determination for success with your property and cabin. Your breakfast meal also looks delicious! I'm guessing that the majority of those who are being critical have never been in the exact position you are right now, both from your financial to current solitary existence on your own property. It appears you are doing great and that you do not sit idly, wondering what to do next! I'm sure there will be things you build or plan that you find may need updated or tweaked, but that's all part of living life and learning on a new homestead at any age. I know you are in many prayers for your safety and guidance, including mine, and I look forward to following you into the winter. See you next time!

[@kenhartman9981]

Hi Brenda where are you from?😊

[@kenhartman9981]

@@brendabown2579 Nice place I live in Oklahoma City but I’m currently working here in Syria…. Are you originally from there?

[@kenhartman9981]

@@brendabown2579 Yes I’m a Brigadier General in the US Army… What about you?

[@kenhartman9981]

@@brendabown2579 What’s your occupation?

[@kenhartman9981]

@@brendabown2579 Oh I see. can we talk somewhere else because here is a public place

[@Charlotte-mf5mp]

I enjoy watching your journey, I am rooting for you. I know your going to do just fine. Keep enjoying the process and freedom.

[@kenhartman9981]

Hi charlotte where are you from ❤😊

[@suseyq4559]

Hey, I’m proud of you just like most of us watching. I’m 70 and wished I would have been more adventurous at your age. (I was later in life) So, crazy cool that you have your own place and making it on your own! P.S. I can almost smell the wood/bacon burning as your stove burns away! Congratulations!

[@SFNativeGal]

Congratulations. You’ve made a home for yourself and you’re getting by, day by day. And you’re sharing your world with all of us. Honestly, I think we could enjoy an update every few days. You’re a remarkable young man. Share your thoughts and dreams with us. My grandson went out on his own at 18 and decided to be homeless to find himself. So! You are my young hero venturing out to live with the abundance you find in Alaska. Stay warm. Cover your wood and please eat just a bit more.🙏🙏🙏

[@kenhartman9981]

Hi Gal where are you from?😊❤

[@09FLTRMM77]

MM77 Approved 👍🏼👍🏼……………………………………………….Youngin, I really admire you! If I knew then ( when I was young) what I know now, I’d be right up there with you! I’ve actually planned in my head what I’d have done and how I’d have done it. It’s too late for me, but I wish only the best for you and I’ll be praying that you make it and thrive, that your cup will be OVER FLOWING!

[@bluegrassoutdoors]

You’re living the good life young man. I believe in time you will become more and more accustomed with how much wood you need, food storage, income, etc. It seems many people are supporting you and are willing to help out. You get a lot of comments fast. I would recommend communicating with your supporters if you are able and I believe you will get a lot of help, if wanted. Many of us want to see a young man or woman have success in their good and honest endeavors. Take care and God bless.

[@jfdrie]

A short video , but I absolutely loved it!!!! Looking forward to your next one. You need to cook yourself a big pot of Barley Soup during cold weather. It would feed you for a week and it’s so nutritious. I was wondering, are you planning to build an Outhouse in the near future? What kind of precautions are you taking so that no Bear could ever get into your cabin? Are there Grizzly bears in your area? Always stay safe. Keep up the great work. We love you.

[@flightevolution8132]

These videos are great, I wish you much success - you deserve it.

[@francismarion1786]

It is absolutely beautiful there! So proud of you man. You're living the best life!

[@SandieCastaneda]

Thanks for sharing Mick! Enjoying your progress 👍🏽

[@kenhartman9981]

Hi Sandie where are you from 😊❤

[@marciaolson4878]

I’m hoping you just have a great winter and am very happy you’re doing so well. No criticisms here. Love your vids and I only wish you the best, you’re doing great! God bless Mick!❤❤

[@kenhartman9981]

Hello marcia where are you from?

[@TumbelinaNZL]

I dunno, something so pleasant about this short video, of an update, shots of what you’re up to and where you’re at, it’s just as easy to watch as the longer format. It’s all part of the story, and you are a wonderful story teller.

[@birdlady5632]

Build an easy wood shed. Or tarp to cover from the snow. But your ideas are great too. Enjoying hearing from you each time.

[@akoffgrid676]

I live remote off grid near Talkeetna and love it. Im alot older than you but have been here for 7 years and have decided to live out my lifes dream. Still building and learning homesteading every day. Keep up videos as more people need to be able to see the rewards and challenges of this lifestyle.

[@lukaknezevic691]

You can always do a life in a day asmr video, for I find them very calming, and just an absolute vibe

[@carolhub8080]

Well done, Mick! God bless, stay safe and keep up the good work.

[@kenhartman9981]

Hello Carol where are you from?

[@XxAtmosphericaxX]

I’d love to come up and visit your homestead Mick! I’d bring a cooler full of food and some fixings for yeah! Hopefully by next summer I can make my way up to Alaska! Currently in NWT of Canada! Basically feels like your my neighbour!!

[@ablelock]

Nice job MICKEY you’re doing a great job out there and you’re making it on your own. I am proud of you and I believe you’re making your parents. Very proud. 😊

[@janicerummel6306]

Thanks for the update Mick! So proud of you for living your dream! Stay safe and of course warm…thanks for sharing!

[@birdsongvalley]

You can always fill some video time with chopping wood with that beautiful snowy background! So relaxing

[@Em-mr6wu]

It was a good video. If you're anything like me, people saying you won't make it (through the winter) kinda ensures that you will make it. And you obviously can be really proud of what you've done so far. Amazing!

[@LostCaper]

I love having all kinds of time to get my tasks done. You enjoy each task when you have lots of time.

[@jeanniepalmer9012]

You have such a rich, soothing speaking voice, I could hear you narrating movies (where narration is used - or voice-over). Looks like you've settled right in. Thanks for sharing!

[@kenhartman9981]

Hi Jeannie where are you from?

[@SirRobinDeSway]

I have nothing but words of praise for this guy.

[@beckyleheny8636]

So proud of you! You are doing more than many of us here watching, and that includes me. I absolutely admire you and wish all the best and God Bless

[@kenhartman9981]

Hi Becky where are you from ❤😊

[@TheMissBeki]

Doin great :) Thanks so much for an update, I was wondering what life was like for you there at the moment. Let us know if you get a PO box or a wish list. I for one would love to knit you up a sweater. Take it easy. x

[@gtrwiouwthgeguwg]

i love these videos. this is what i look forward to very week

[@violetsdr]

Ther's a difference between being critical vs. offering constructive criticism. You seem to be getting both. Know the difference, consider the constructive criticism which tends to be helpful suggestions, and ignore those being critical (the naysayers). Keep on living your dream--learning and growing as you move forward.. God is with you.

[@MatAK49]

I remember my 1st winter here in Alaska on the Kenai Peninsula after I built my small place in '04. I'm still here! As for suggestions, I listened to them but pretty much learned as I go, especially when I figured out ways to keep the heat inside and the cold outside. Thanks for sharing your journey with us.

[@AndtherewasJoy13]

Living your adult life on your own terms, Mickey, way to go! Your parents are very wise about living in the manner in which you have chosen....ask many questions of them. Best to you, young man.

[@Alaskahuntr]

You are a true inspiration! So enjoy watching your content. Can't wait for new videos.

[@jljohnson9438]

I must tell you that I very much look forward to your videos. It's nice to see someone following through with their dreams and enjoying the fruits of your labors.

[@crazydoxylady7169]

you are so mature and brave.....can't wait for the next video! Living vicariously through your adventures! Nancy from Ohio....

[@kenhartman9981]

Hi my friend how are you doing today ❤😊

[@DaisyJ73]

Glad to see you're eating something other than Ramen. Thank you for the update. It's always great to see what you're up to. God bless.