How I Lift Logs on to the Cabin, Growing Potatoes in the Forest, Division of Labour

[@shineyrocks390]

When there's no help to be had. Improvise adapt and overcome. Work smarter not harder. You may not remember me and that's okay with me cause you have a ton of subs. 2-3 years ago I saw your video. I to was working/slaving away at a commercial roofing company in Colorado Springs CO. I literally was just existing, plumb dead inside, ready to give up! So I saw recommended videos and your was there. I watched it and absolutely fell head over heals in love with everything. I didn't know how what when or where, I just knew that this life I was living wasn't the life I wanted or needed. It was time for me to move on and truly live life and I did. I'm now in the Black Hills Mountains in South Dakota living on 5 acres. I built a small cabin and chicken coop first. Then came the garden and amending soil. My wife support system was put to the extreme test. My wife knows I'm crazy at times, she told me you've gone and lost your mind this time! No running water, no electricity, no Holiday Inn, no TV, you're insane! Then as time went on she slowly saw I wasn't joking and I needed my Mental health to improve and I did, I was happy, it changed me inside, my heart was full of Thanksgiving and appreciation for the first time I was a part of the biggest picture coming together and all working together in a symbiotic relationship with one another. I see it every day and night. I found out here in the country what I call the missing link. We weren't meant to live in mental hospitals called the City. Today I am finishing gathering logs for my barn I'm building, myself, by hand, a chainsaw, a hammer and nails. 18'x 36' pole barn for Nubian goats I plan on milking. A loft for hay storage and room for the chickens somewhere off to one side. Also I'm gonna build a sunken greenhouse or walapini as some call it. Growing season is short and growing anything up in the mountains is not easy, challenging is sometimes not a good expression for produce gardening up here. I enjoy it though and now everyday I wake up by God's grace and mercy thankful to be alive. Ready to take on each day as it presents itself to me. I couldn't have done any of this without God. He knew my heart best. I also most like would not have done this if I hadn't clicked on your video and watched it 200 times in amazement 😁 Be safe and from my own personal experience, take a break once in a while even while lifting those logs to the top thinking, if I can get one nail in and tacked on, I've got it, the rest is history. I know I do it and forget to eat something most days. I just get lost in my work and it's never enough daylight. Before I was away working, I couldn't wait to get home. Now I'm home I can't wait to get working.

[@annrhodes3544]

Congratulations!

[@LaLadybug2011]

Congratulations to you and your wife--living your best life. I hope she is enjoying it as much as you are. Best wishes to y'all.

[@diannevanalstine6835]

So happy to hear what you had to say today. Right on! In my youth I raised a family in a rural area and have no end of stories of every Tom, Dick and Harry AND his mother out in the forest “hunting” with loaded guns they didn’t know how to handle, chopping down trees, pitching tents, shooting, wounding and leaving wild life, using our stream to relieve themselves or bathe. Had to “hit the deck” and shove my toddler to the ground more than once to avoid these “hunter’s” crossfire. Oh and giving birth on the forest floor. And on and on. I love that you are out in the wilderness and I can’t believe you would want a migration into wilderness by hordes of ill prepared, would be forest dwellers. Thank God for laws and civilization and well educated, experienced, responsible and considerate homesteaders such as yourself. Long may you live and prosper….and keep on sharing your adventures with us. Thank you!

[@MadMulberry]

Shaun, I can attest to what you say. Our circumstances are completely different, but many of our experiences are similar. I work in a motorway service station. The work is mundane and not very well paid. The strange thing is, though, that I have never been more contented in my life. I used to work in information technology and was quite well paid. During the recession I was made redundant and given a nice settlement which I invested in starting a business. That nearly killed me. I was stressed to the max and suffered a nervous breakdown. Seven years ago I accepted my current job. Instead of feeling like a failure and washed up in a dead end job, I enjoy the interaction with customers, and often see people who have way more reason to be discontented with life, even suicidal, yet they manage to smile and be pleasant and it gives me perspective. I try to make at least one person I meet and interact with have a better day. Not only does it make their day better but it makes me happy. It turns out that it doesn't take much to make someone's day better. I also cycle to work, by choice. I've chosen a regular route that is quieter, more scenic and three times further than the direct route. This helps my wellbeing, both mental and physical. I also have taken up hand tool woodworking. I spend about 3 hours a day, on average, pursuing my hobby. It is very rewarding because I can express my creativity. The tools are quiet and soothing and the shavings often smell wonderful. Some days I might spend a full day, some days only half an hour, and some days no time at all in my workshop. I have a growing number of items around me, that I have made, that bring joy to others and that they appreciate when gifted to them. I have wonderful children who have given me wonderful grandchildren. I spend quality time with them whenever I can. Often the quality time with my grandson includes time in the workshop. He loves being in it hammering nails or drilling holes. My life feels close to perfect, and every day I feel grateful to be living it.

[@medaily57]

I did manage to find fulfillment outside of work and it made a world of difference in my work life, too. I started doing crochet. Mostly baby blankets at first, then scarves, later hats for the homeless and blankets for all my great nieces and nephews. My work stressed me out, crochet calmed me. I am retired now and I am still picking up the hook!

[@metpatpetet7685]

I've never been addicted to cigarettes, but I crochet "three packs a day". Otherwise, I begin to fidget and become very cranky. Crocheting and knitting have the advantage of being much healthier!

[@medaily57]

@@metpatpetet7685 it does make a world of difference! I worked the toll free line for the treasury department and some calls could be very stressful! My manager knew if I had a bad call, I was going to have to destress for a few minutes and crochet is how I managed to go into the next call with my customer service smile!

[@bkksw4731]

I love listening to what you think, how you did things, etc. A few years older than you, I often wish there was a way to package experience and give to people after that specific experience. Looks like you've found a good way.

[@marymcmanus]

I am now in a village with 800 people. I moved out of a very crowded state and moved into my camp in the woods. You have a great way of saying what I am thinking. Thanks for your insite. ❤️🐾.

[@Kathy_Is_Blessed]

Good morning Shawn! You and sweet Cali💛 have some heavy work ahead. Take care.

[@MarcvanExel]

What a treat to find uploads from you two days in a row. Totally agree with what you said. I'm currently at a crossroads as I just lost my 20 plus years' job. To be honest I'm happy it happend and I want to create a better balance for myself now that I have that opportunity. Easier said then done but I'll get there. Have a great week!

[@jayheinrich5207]

Good luck! Keep morals and trust in yourself. With that you will land on your feet with a smile and pride!

[@empress2500]

I believe in you. You will create the balance that you seek, afterall only you can do it. As shawn said we are all in this together, for better or worse

[@lorenenoe4472]

Marc, I went thru cancer and a stretch of trying to replace the satisfaction I enjoyed with my career. Little things take on importance after surgery & an extended coma. When performing a routine daily task, such as hygiene, I gave it my total attention and found joy in just being mindful in each moment. Whatever your limitations, celebrate the things you do have the ability to achieve…gratitude is a healing tool. My best to you going forward.

[@melodytenisch6232]

Have fun finding the balance; I've no doubt it will be a rewarding journey. Best of luck!👵😊🍀

[@marianfrances4959]

👍😎🇨🇦

[@Yongyong93]

Its been a stressful day for me today..but watching your video again,makes me want to live like you. Its so peaceful there..

[@alexpage7292]

In the time that I’ve been watching your channel I had to give up my job due to me having Ménière’s disease, I miss the achievements but I realise how much of my life I was spending working. I only see the same four walls now so thank goodness for your channel. It keeps me going. Thanks for sharing Shawn

[@jayheinrich5207]

Work to live, don’t live to work! Good luck Alex!

[@alexpage7292]

@@jayheinrich5207 Thank you Jay 👍🏻

[@JB-nk4qh]

These videos remind me of my childhood home. I understand the level of commitment and passion necessary to strive for self-reliance. Upkeep, though, never ends, and nature is a real mother at times. The beauty is unsurpassed! But remoteness, exhaustion, and uncertainty do take their toll. Now I have a small home in an urban setting, with some lawn and a garden. Arriving at a balanced lifestyle and outlook can work wonders. Having said that, thanks for sharing these videos! I can "smell" the fresh wood when you're cutting, chopping, or planing. Peace✌

[@trisho.8331]

I really enjoy listening to your stories as we learn even more about your amazing mindset. So gratifying! You are a deep thinker, hard worker, provider for your family while staying true to yourself and innate values. The assembly line cabinet making and many other life experiences are a testament to man’s ability to learn, grow, evolve and then teach others by example the true meaning of life. As ever, you inspire with your great heart, remaining true to yourself and your life’s calling. Much respect and gratitude for sharing your wisdom with us. You’re my hero and a living legend. I feel blessed to follow your channels vicariously. The joy and pleasure you bring to us viewers is incomparable.

[@jeffconnors6721]

You’re a bloody legend Shawn. You’ve taught me lots and inspire me!

[@phantomapprentice6749]

@MAKOBITE Why would someone hate him ? I really don't get that part? envy?

[@annrhodes3544]

@@phantomapprentice6749 Probably the sociopathic ex neighbors.

[@phantomapprentice6749]

@@annrhodes3544 Yeah I know about that part, don't know the motive behind that behavior. People really need to get a life

[@debshapiro6431]

I'm so glad that you didn't settle for working where everything was task even more than function. Look what you have done here! You're amazing. Stay safe 💕

[@anamulrahman543]

The last two videos, this one and the latest one bud, has been the most compelling, in terms sharing your life experiences, advice. It's been a long time since you talked about these ideas. More would be appreciated. Enjoyed it. Many thanks.

[@murrayandru7527]

"Never saddle a dead horse"...... rigging wisdom.... and a Great rule to follow !. These are things you learn in LIFE !! Mr James has learned well !! Kudos and Thanks for Sharing !

[@swkohnle08]

I totally agree that we need hobbies or activities that allow us to be creative. My job is selling robotic systems to factories to help them automate their manufacturing. My entire career has been in technology and automation. My passion is woodworking with exclusively hand tools. One of the reasons I discovered your channel. I restore woodworking hand tools and my workshop is hand tools only. I have no power tools. I restored several hand planes, crosscut and rip saws and built a workshop from scratch with the tools I restored. Restoring hand tools teaches you how they work. My life is in tech but my passion is hand tools and woodworking without power tools using only my hands and brain to resolve challenges. I restore old and antique furniture, my shop is cold in winter, and hot in summer, but I love every minute I’m in there and away from technology. You have always had great content and I enjoy your videos.

[@feralphil1198]

couldnt have put your/mine view on the world of work better in words. well spoken Shawn. Greetings from Germany.

[@karrolstover6773]

Shawn love to watch you and listen to you, I am a man brought up hunting and fishing in the mountains of West Virginia, was taught those same values by my dad and grandad ,now I'm grandad and hopefully instilling those values in my children and grandchildren, be careful but keep on living the dream.

[@davidoliver2826]

Agreed. Loss of clear mental focus creates a major loss of drive and understood purpose. Somewhere in our day and or week we must find some fulfilling meaning in life . I find nature to be the best teacher for this focus and purpose. Thanks again for sharing your thoughts on this journey.

[@scottsemrau2859]

N.D.D. ......."Nature Deficit Disorder"........Never heard of it, but I think I get it when i'm away from my cabin too long! Thank you Dr. James for my diagnosis!

[@herrimag]

Ive always thought these things but never in such an organized well thought oot manner. Thanks for doing the leg work Shawn

[@jameskniskern2261]

One of the challenges of humans throughout history has been finding that "fulfilling" pursuit. There have been troves of books, videos, and even religions based upon that goal. Our fulfillment has been finding our satisfying activities that are meaningful, fulfilling, and make us feel useful. It isn't always easy, and many people don't recognize those activities when they are doing them. My younger self never would have guessed that I would become an orchardist, farmer, or avid gardener. Let alone building my own home, and all that entails. And finding rewards both financial and emotional from those activities. :)

[@melodytenisch6232]

Nice comment.👵😊👍

[@aframecorry1]

Your dedication to work ethics is an inspiration to me! Never start a job or project that you can't be proud of!! Thank you!

[@101life9]

"Living a meaningful life". Gotcha. You nailed it. Thank you.

[@bmunday]

!! talking about workplace methodology and industrialization techniques related to craftsmanship may be one of the most importaqnt conversations young folk in our era should be exploring and talking about!! Nicely Done Sir.

[@ArielleViking]

I always enjoy watching as well as listening to your reflections. A disconnect from nature has really been a big factor in all the troubles in the world. Awesome video as always Shawn. 💯❤👍

[@debshapiro6431]

Thanks Arielle. I knew someone would speak my thoughts and I'm finding a bit of community, like-minded people here. Shawn makes my day, on the regular 💕💫🍀🌱🦋🏞️

[@debshapiro6431]

Thanks Arielle. I knew someone would speak my thoughts and I'm finding a bit of community, like-minded people here. Shawn makes my day, on the regular 💕💫🍀🌱🦋🏞️

[@debshapiro6431]

Thanks Arielle. I knew someone would speak my thoughts and I'm finding a bit of community, like-minded people here. Shawn makes my day, on the regular 💕💫🍀🌱🦋🏞️

[@The_Crow_Flies]

well Just remember that when you were building the workshop you said you thought you had found your physical limit with that. Don't over do yourself.

[@bobobrien8968]

Never tire of listening to your words of wisdom.

[@gfl1957]

Ingenuity is a great thing and you have it working. I have learned to come up with "help" too building my cabin alone. I enjoy watching both channels.

[@douggibson9084]

I've seen Alaskan builder use a vertical log parallel to a bigger tree in the ground, both secured at the tree's base. At the top of the free log it has a strap and/or cable to secure the chain fall to. The free log all so has a cable secured in the same place as the chain fall. The cable goes back to the tree though a pulley and down to the tree's base. At the base of the tree has a boat type winch to raise and lower the top of the free log. The free log pivots at the base of the tree about 30° to reach all areas of the work site. Basically a 3th class lever. Great video 👍 Shawn, thanks.

[@jayheinrich5207]

Sounds like a pivoting crane🤔. There are many ways when using your brain and this one sounds simple yet effective! Take care!

[@douggibson9084]

Thanks Jay, I didn't know what it was called.

[@adwatson8908]

I agree with you Shawn, We are better persons when we get to see the end result of our work. I have always felt better about myself when I see the beginning idea or need, figure and problem solve the processes to accomplish the goal, and then receive the benefit of my work. I gain new ideas, develop more skills, and have the opportunity to innovate and share my experiences with others. I find I also appreciate the work of others more. Thanks for sharing your work. It inspires me.

[@johnlaccohee-joslin4477]

Hi Shawn, i agree that we need to put a lot more time enjoying what is around us, and more importantly why its around us,i.e. like you were saying about the difference in growing areas for food and the like between the growing area for trees and wild life, and just as important understanding wild life and its function in out lives. I have found so many people in my life have no clue as to where certain things come from. A good example is what happens when the power goes out and the problem it creats for so many people. I would say that fifty % of people would be unable to light a fire without a lighter or box of matches, let alone get the food to cook, but that comes down to a mind set, simple as it may seem its a subject that is never touched on in education, just as finding your way around, there are not too many who can point out the time of day by the sky, or directing like north south east and west from where they are, these are all things you learn by paying attention to nature, like where moss grows on a tree, where the sun goes down, or how high it gets during the course of the day. Having a few skills under your belt is a real bonus, the more the better, its good to be highly skilled in one of them but having knowledge about others really is something that i have found lacking in many peoples lives and not only as a fault of their own. I have some things that aid me in life that i learned from an early age that have stayed with me, like sharpening saws and blades that sound small untill you try and saw a bit of wood with a saw that has no set on the teeth and is blunt. There are plenty a things that i now wish i had spent more time giving some attention, but i think that could be said of all. This brings to mind a video on you tube of a guy who flew a few hundred miles to get a to man saw sharped, i dread to think of the cost, but he made a video about it! Sounds like the cabin is moving along at a steady pace, and should be something really nice when done all credit to you, as doing it on your own is no easy task, having sait that, i remember seeing an attachment to a chain saw that used the motor to drive a winch for moving heavy logs, incorperated into you lifting system would come in handy but i cannot recall just who made them. Anyhow, all the best as usual, i am sorry if you have sent messages that i have not see or answered but i cannot find out have to see where to find them on my pad , not that good with computers as i should be. Take care and good luck to you and your family and of course Cali John Australia.

[@lacarlotta6290]

Thank you for the inspiration, Shawn. Your spirit is such a gift…….

[@031568dennis]

I envy and admire your woodworking and forestry skills--you are a true workforce all by yourself. As a viewer, please remember that in using the hoist system described here, that when cable is strung tight between two points, a 1000lb. force applied in the middle span of that cable does not create a 1000lb. force on the cable terminal ends. The actual force is nearly 6000lbs. of force on the terminal ends. The greater the angle from the terminal ends to the applied force, the less the force there will be on the cable itself. Please use caution, take two minutes for safety sake and use all PPE.

[@pamelafeather6405]

as always, awed by your tenacity, talent and know how. My thanks for the window into your world.

[@kerra3699]

I can’t wait to see the upper cabin build start, walls and roof. I hope you get a fair amount done before the snow. I hope it’s a milder winter for you this year.

[@willierants5880]

I fully agree with you on division of labor. It's mind numbing. I had a similar job right out of high school. Worst job I ever had. I like to see things start to finish and I like control over my work.

[@colombepetite]

I believe you are spot on. I am from the Pacific Northwest, but to give my daughter a better life, I joined the military. I met my husband in NC and after we retired we got married. We are STILL in NC but I miss the PNW. I don’t like having neighbors 10 feet on either side of us but he won’t budge. I am looking in getting an RV so I can go out to national parks etc. He can wait here at home for me. 🥰

[@NorthernRetreat]

The calmness of nature feeds the soul.

[@mkllove]

Hi Shawn, seeing your cable lift system brought back memories of vectors and free body diagrams from my school days for classes in physics and engineering. To simplify it, allow the cables to droop to lowest point you'll require for the at top course of logs on walls. This will allow cables to lift the most weight within ratings safely. As you tighten the cables at tree to raise it higher and approach 90 degrees, you're greatly increasing the tensions a load places on that cable to roughly double... so a 100 lb load could/would break a 200 lb rated cable when applied at a perpendicular but if at 45 degrees relative to ground (90 degrees apart relative) it could barely handle up to 200 lb load maximum. Stay below 1/4 of cable or fittings rated loads in order to be safe. Your suggestion of adding a tripod inside walls is a great idea as well to avoid overloading the upper cable.

[@debshapiro6431]

Thanks for your expert advice. Stay safe Shawn 🙏

[@Fitzy222]

James, Shawn James. The new Bond 🤩

[@jd2055]

Hi Shawn truer words were never spoken. I worked in many trades including a production line in a machine shop I hated the thought of waking up to go to work. I always wanted to be a Park Ranger and eventually started working for BC parks. I was very lucky but I couldn't ask for a better job. I now loved going to work until I finally retired. Thanks you for sharing your thoughts I enjoy this channel as much as MSR.

[@wendellsullivan2341]

NDD Nature Deficit Disorder Could not agree more!!

[@rebeccamercer4160]

Good morning! Always enjoy your talks! God bless you and your family!

[@sarameitner6770]

Thank you for sharing your thoughts and views on fulfillment. They touch a deep chord with me.

[@markpashia7067]

The experience you are describing is what was common in the USA in the sixties, but since then at least for those at the bottom was to work an eight hour job, then go to a part time job, and if you were lucky you got to sleep some. The the seventies got so bad with inflation it took two or three paychecks so the wife went to work as well. When I grew up one paycheck could support a family of eight. Today two paychecks barely cover a family of four for those lower on the ladder. Meanwhile those who do not even work or get a paycheck sit at the country club collecting on their "rent seeking" investments and taking all of the cream off the top. This has to change or revolution will happen. Let them eat cake is not the answer. This is class war and I do not mean between those who work for a living and those who own companies. They can see each other and work it out. The class war is between those who work for a living and those who feed off of the labor of others without working by using laws to rob the workers because they inherited great wealth and can afford lobbyists and tilt the playing field. If you level the playing field so that all have a real chance at success the whole group succeeds. Right now they have us fighting each other over the scraps and will take us back to serfdom is we let them. They broke the unions by sending all that work overseas and look how that turned out. Now we can look and the greatest purchasing power of the minimum wage was 1968 and has constantly dropped since then. All other wages scale up from the bottom. If you freeze the bottom you slow all of the wages from top to bottom. The best way for a society to grow a pie is to share the pie in a fair split. No one wants to work hard for less than a fair share of the gain. That is why when we moved from the family farm to industrial farming society got the benefit of economies of scale, but most got short changed by the socializing of losses. Back to the land means you get all the benefit of your labor but also all of the losses if you screw up. I like most welcome the chance of betting on myself, but watch out for the uneven playing field that could come knocking as the wealthy buy the law makers. Also must confess that I am too old and broken to do this myself but I am cheering for those who can including my children.

[@melodytenisch6232]

Well said Shawn! Nature-Deficit Disorder. Great video, great message. You are really in your element. Love it! My happiest times were in wilderness areas. Blessings to you and yours and kisses to Calli.👵😊🌲🌲🐕💕

[@markwlckens1817]

I expect you understand that if you stretch a cable horizontally taught between the trees, then apply a load to the middle of the cable, the load on the cable increases exponentially. If the cable was to fail, you not only have a danger of dropping the load, the cable is like a rubber band and can cause serious injury upon retraction. The best rig of a load, using cable, is a deep "v". Generally industry safety orders in California specify a safety factor of 5 and sometime 6 depending upon the operation and application. Please be safe my friend. MW, California Elevator Safety Engineer.

[@suziqbrown7073]

It's a good thing some people have the ability to stick to the grind for their family

[@heinstrydom864]

Well done, enjoy everyday and work while you could do it. Nothing beat it to look at something that you accomplish and be proud of it.

[@Flowergurl2000]

You could also grow potatoes above ground using leaves as mulch, with a good base of composted material too. You might over winter garlic too! Although that GEOgarden is gonna yield almost all you need , year round, and the rest you can can!!! I love this build, almost as much as Cali!!! 🌲

[@leavemealone7076]

I totally agree with you, I like to start a project and see it through to the end. I'd get bored doing one thing only all day long...guess that's why I went into business for myself. Stay safe, be careful, take it easy and keep warm and dry.

[@butwereallsombdyspecial]

💪 Shawn's been moving giant logs for many years now!

[@deborahmcsweeney1650]

So agree with the nature deficit disorder. And you won't fight for preserving what you don't know.

[@DR-sh7sm]

You always give good advice and your knowledge about life is the same way I would see life before I got sick but you are so right on everything that you say and sometimes it is good to be reminded of what life is about thanks you for your advice and your knowledge Shawn can’t wait to see your new cabin such a beautiful place that you have enjoy life and be happy

[@phefarilla4710]

My Dad and his brothers ranched, and us kids got to go with them. We learned to work the cattle, work in the fields, raise some of our own animals and to respect the land. We had a sawmill for the first part of my life, but ranching became our main income. I can't imagine my Dad without being able to teach us kids all that he knew and making every aspect of it fun.

[@dandaniels4558]

That's exactly what I did shawn.graduated from.high school and went strait into a furniture factory and learned to build furniture frames and the moved into unpolished the furniture for 35 yrs and it and working out with weights that same 35 yrs to stay strong so lifting on furniture and stretching leather all day was easier. But the two things together was just to much on my joints and have gone through both knee replacements. Right shoulder replaced twice and still not right and left one needs replaced but waiting it out since the right one was successful either time. Carpel tunnel in both hands from all the repetitive grabbing and stretching of leather and fabric that whole time and of coarse arthritis everywhere through my body .back issues, neck issues and I upholstered at high speed because it was production based pay.the more I did the more I made. But had to be done to there high quality standards. It was a clean job but a very physical job. Lifting 200 lb frames that came full of all the supplies to build it . Up and down off and on the jig platform . And I'm 61 now and was physically disabled at 50 when all the replacements started . All I have are regrets that I didn't go to college and learn something like physical therapy to help dummies like me instead of being the dummy. So I'm pretty much stuck in a holding pattern not able to do much. It's very depressing knowing life is a slow roll towards end of life circumstances. I just watch you and other KZbin channels oh off grid homesteaders building there lives and live vicariously through you and them . I wish I could go back to 17 knowing all I know now and start all over again.there would be big changes in what I would do differently. But that's not possible so you filming your life makes it a bit easier to handle my failures in my life. I've never drank,smoked or done any illegal drugs only what was prescribed to me and never any trouble with the law. But now I've been diagnosed with chronic kidney disease which is hereditary .just another hurdle I've got to fight through . But I found other ways to screw my life up by buying things I didn't need with money I earned in a very hard way. Have filed bankruptcy twice still didn't learn. There's alot more to my downfalls but it would take another hour to type it out.so will end it here. Keep the great content coming Shawn it's very much appreciated . Stay safe and God bless you and Cali and family 🙏

[@gedreillyhomestead6926]

Many (many) years ago I had a college psychology tutor who explained why a lot of production workers bypass the job satisfaction element of life by getting well paid and able to fulfill the leisure part of life doing what they couldn't afford to do otherwise. While working they would be mentally planning their next leisure time, one guy constantly thought about chess moves (he was a chess master), others would plan their new workshop build/layout/project/vacation location etc. If I was younger (a lot) I would absolutely go down the path you have. Stay safe. 👍 😎

[@barbarabrown7960]

I did that. My left brain had to do endless data entry while my right brain did oil paintings. It made my job bearable.

[@kevola5739]

Cali looks very fulfilled!

[@darlamills6846]

Shawn...I don't think I've ever heard anyone talk like you do! Not a bad thing, just interesting and it feels like you did a lot of thinking! I really have stopped thinking and I just do. I guess that's kind of what you're talking about. I wish I had a brother like you. Good conversations!

[@markrtoffeeman]

Shawn Shawn Shawn. I often fear for your back seeing the work you put in....

[@ShawnJames1]

Wait until Friday’s video!

[@markrtoffeeman]

@@ShawnJames1 Shawn, you have no idea. Your uploads are literally the highlight of the week. I've stopped watching TV and prefer to watch real world stuff. Entertaining and educational. I was telling one of your countrymen during Skiing pre-pandemic what an amazing channel you've created. Keep it up. All the best as ever to Cali and the wife.

[@phantomapprentice6749]

Most important to keeping back safe is keeping hydrated

[@jayheinrich5207]

One thing you have to say about Shawn is he is intelligent and knows how to work alone smartly Although, accidents are just that and can happen! I have been building my place for 25 years in a much more modern fashion and I am amazed at how much one can safely get done when using my brain and he has much more capacity than I! My place might get done sometime due to medical yet I am still proud and pleased!

[@cjtymczak4687]

Shawn, just take it slow, you don’t want to be injured. Get help when you need it.

[@jonnaborosky8836]

I wondered how you had so much knowledge in building things. Both my dad and granddad built things...not professionally like you...but they HAD to build. Every day after work and on most weekends both were in their basement workshops building something. Neither ever built a house from scratch, but they both massively re-constructed or changed basically every feature of their homes. Then, in retirement, my dad bought a hobby farm. There, he built many sheds, barns, little buildings. He'd buy a new tractor and then build a garage for it. Then he figured he needed some other tractor for something else, and he's have to build a shed for it. In no time at all, he found another piece of equipment he had to have....etc. I watched and listened to all of it. I know how products and projects are supposed to turn out, but I don't know all the calculations and techniques to get it to be like it's supposed to be. I've never seen a contractor who work as fine as my dad's work. Not once...but I like to watch you build things because you know how and you know how to get all of it done right. I enjoy that very much. With the help and supervision of an elder master carpenter, my brother built a cabin in the woods, along with a separate chapel, separate guest cottage and a couple of storage sheds. I was always kinda jealous because I wanted a log cabin in the woods since I was a teenager. I asked my dad to buy me one instead of sending me to college at that time. He, very wisely, said no. Now, my brother has passed away and left me his cabin and all the rest he built, on about 12 acres of land. It's been hard for me to get the things I wanted and needed done right. For me, it's a struggle. Even if my dad had taught me as he built, I still couldn't do it now, as I'm disabled. I can hardly stand up long enough to do dishes....there's not much building in my future! But I really do enjoy watching you get to build just exactly what you want...the way you want it. It's encouraging...makes me think I might one day find a contractor who does work as well as my dad. Thanks for that.

[@juliekeys1880]

Look after yourself you work very hard.Love your videos 👍 keep save. Have time out with you lovely family.🤗

[@litotulabing8217]

You’re are the best simple but effective I have learned something from you.

[@melissahoffman4687]

Awww Cali and her squirrel friends are adorable! :)

[@phantomapprentice6749]

Truly motivational talk , I like that you are sharing more of your philosophy of life lately.

[@KraftyKathi]

I agree, while I do a lot of outdoor work at home, the fact that I haven't had leisure time hiking and camping has led to fighting depression.

[@toml2083]

I truly enjoyed your recent video about work life balance and we we all need satisfaction in life be it at work or at home in our personal lives. Really connected with your analysis, spot on! Thanks!...😄

[@ricktimmons458]

am so glad you did this. save your back.

[@lindapetersen1800]

Oh Oh Shawn and OUR CALI this is a pleasure to wake up to OUR CALI and YOU in the MORNING !!! Your talking about me Shawn I did work with the YOUTH GROUP at the Church and even though I was the Mom to my own children I needed something to support my working for FREE with the Church YOUTH GROUP I took a part time job to support my habit of YOUTH GROUP WORKER If they needed help in the church youth group I did it after work or doing work with the family THE BEST THING IN LIFE after HAVING MY BABIES AND they were big enough to take care of themselves !!!

[@jac5824]

Once again you've hit the nail on the head.

[@johndebolt5853]

Great video Shawn. Be well.

[@charlievegas4653]

You are a beautiful man. Your puppy is too cute. I have watched a lot of your videos. Thank you.

[@YvonneSebastian1980]

That blue Jay wants to be on camera.. lol.. nice seeing you two days in a row…☮️❤️

[@richardburguillos3118]

How does that saying go…. Work to live don’t live to work. I can’t wait to get back into nature. Thank you for sharing your bit of paradise in nature to help keep us connected in someway with the outdoors….

[@loragunning5394]

I grew from childhood into my late teens convinced my life would be devoted to caring for animals in need, given my love of animals and my love of nurturing sick/wounded animals. I decided at a very early age to become a veterinarian, and so began focusing all my studies into math and sciences, going to summer school and taking advanced placement classes. I am from a lower middle class family, so if college was going to happen for me, I'd have to earn myself a scholarship, as my parents could not fund me. My hard work payed off in the summer between my junior and senior year in high school, when I was awarded a "free-ride" 4 year scholarship from the University of California at Davis, School of Veterinary Sciences, one of the highest ranked vet schools in the USA. But something else happened to me that same summer. I came to the awareness that choosing a career, and hence a life course, at the age of 17, based on ideas born in early childhood, may not necessarily be a very good idea. I knew absolutely nothing about life in the "real world", having been sheltered by my parents and schools for the entirety of my life. And while I loved animals and caring for them, and rescuing them (when I could), and I loved math and science, I began to doubt myself in my chosen path. I just didn't feel like I had enough information to make a truly informed choice, a commitment that would set me on a path I may find it very difficult to backtrack from, if I ended up finding it not right for me. And in the end, I turned down the scholarship. I didn't think it would be right for me to accept it with the doubts I had about my commitment to this course for the future of my life, especially if the next candidate on the list had no doubts. My parents were horribly disappointed in me, to say the least. But I really felt it was important for me to just go out and live in the world for a while and see what happened, see where my evolving interests led me. With this in mind, I opted to graduate from high school early, mid term in January, as I had actually had enough credits to graduate at the end of my junior year. I was done with school...I wanted to start my life. And to make a long story as short as possible, my early adult life explorations led me into architecture, of all things. I'd always been creative and clever with my hands, which when combined with my heavy math and science background, made a perfect fit. I got a job as an architectural drafter when I was 22, with absolutely no experience or training, I learned the skills and basic knowledge base quickly, and was on my way. I *LOVED* my work, from day 1, and now I am 67 yrs old, still working, still loving my work, 45 yrs into what has been an extremely rewarding career. I've designed hundreds of houses (I work 99% in single family homes) which became homes for folks and families to live and make memories in, and the challenges of designing to each client's needs and building within their budget is an ever ongoing process I enjoy immensely. Which is all to say, no one has to work a 9-5 M-F job they hate just to fund their other interests or their weekend activities. The chance for each and every one of us to find work that funds both our bank account and our souls are there for us all. Someone told me decades ago "Find the place you want to live, then figure out how to stay there". No one has to be chained to a job they hate, although one may need to pare down one's expectations of gaining wealth while finding a way to do what one loves...

[@Gordonseries385]

I like to see more of giving back to nature. Meaning city's, urban areas where land and abandon buildings and land are brought back to their original state.

[@comedianmattrossey]

Shawn, I totally agree with what you're saying! One of the biggest things I miss here in Toronto is NATURE. When I lived in BC nature and wilderness were so easily accessible. Here in Toronto its a good drive as the GTA is continuing to grow and spread. Hopefully in the next few years we, (my wife and I), will be able to buy land and build our own home. And personally I would love to do what you're doing. My wife doesn't feel that way yet, but, she also is in another country, and grew up differently than many Canadians do. I think once she see's the amount of nature here in Canada, she may be more interested. Matt - Toronto

[@CC-xk6cp]

Hi again SHAWN Good to see you! Hoping you'll stay safe with the logs! No hernias allowed! Those can be nasty and bad timing anyway!! Hope all goes smoothly. You'll need a big potatoes area cause that's something you can count on then for winter and you use alot. Thx as always for sharing. See ya next time. Stay safe...

[@irisviolet2439]

YESTARDAY i wanted to felicit you congratulate you for the abundance of your GREEN HOUSE....good job...GOD blees you in all the way posibile cause you are a good grat man

[@Dr.Gunsmith]

Potatoes are a great food source and not too hard to manage and grow. Great for hard times.

[@Smalfry47]

I look at the task of fall cleaning my living room and thought….. way too much work at age 75, turn on youtube and see Shawn moving huge logs by himself….. living room clean is over half done, dern you Shawn! Lol.

[@garyhand6480]

Be glad when you get started!

[@Legendary-lp5dg]

I enjoy watching your vlog because i love nature.

[@urothe7696]

I love my job, having fun with family and in free time I am soaring in a glider above all trouble. So even in an urban area it is possible to reach fulfillment.

[@lorraineeagle4009]

I must say I like that you are posting on this channel more.Although I wonder if this one might be harder to edit. But I really enjoy you explaining what, why and how you do what you do. This cabin is much bigger than anything I've seen you do. I figured you would have your daughter or some of your friends to help with the bigger logs. But how ever you do it Please be careful. Say Hi to your beautiful wife and give Cali a good rub. God Bless

[@catherinejohnson1671]

It's funny.. I'm stuck indoors a lot due to a debilitating back condition.. your videos bring me some happiness.. i lived in a woods in the uk.. i miss it.. i loved your Alaska travels.. i thought of a Song by Dark dark dark called Daydreaming.. x

[@anthonyjames6179]

Right on Shawn. We live and work and look back and think What is the purpose?

[@mariapottery]

I understand what are you saying, all my life I did, or try to make jobs on my own. I like the challenge to do everything from the beginning to the end. Depend on myself, my knowledge and my strength. I can say I did very well, not really financially, I’m not rich, but I’m very happy. I’m proud of myself how I did it.

[@johnnaylor4348]

Shawn I spent 12 years just out of high school working at a factory every day day in day out the same old repetitive life draining stuff. Put in my resignation notice and went into welding and loved it to death. I jumped out of bed eager to get to work and complained to my boss at the end of the day when he demanded I go home. The thing I got out of my experience was photoes of things I created and bragging rights. But my favorite job was being an electrician but not having the satisfaction of having something to show for it. By the way I had a heart attack while slinging temp lights on a 12 foot ladder / Triple bypass and then 4 more heart attacks. So now all I have is KZbin and a keyboard.

[@marthaadams8326]

Dear John, My path is similar. I do have a small farm with chickens and a very small garden. I have to hire some help to even begin to keep up. I believe that God has it and there is something for me to do until I go HOME to be with HIM.

[@johnnaylor4348]

@@marthaadams8326 God already has you snuggled under his wing! When he comes ...Spread your wings with him!

[@LaLadybug2011]

John, after reading your comment to Martha, I believe you have a book in you. Have you ever thought about writing one? God definitely has a plan for you yet! Your being alive sounds like a miracle. 😊

[@marygordon3032]

Thanks Shawn for such a great inspiration to us, you’re very much appreciated! 🤩🤩🤩👏👏👏👍👍👍💯💯💯😎😎😎

[@greywolfwalking6359]

Build on the basic" old school" technology..( work smarter, not harder )... you got this! You tha boss!

[@jean-marievennin8405]

Hello Shawn, may i suggest you, if the steel-wire around the tree stay for a long time, you insert some wood in 2x2 all around the tree and the wire to save it of die because the wire will cut the tree-squin .(sorry i have not the good words). I think you know that fact that if the squin of a tree is cut all around, the tree will die. Bon courage and stay safe.

[@genefoust5569]

Good morning Tuesday October 5th 6:30 a.m. NC🌲🐕

[@thetruthpost9693]

☆☆☆ Your best video message to date. Spot on. NDD is a problem. ☆☆☆

[@stephenriley9084]

Shawn, You can move the biggest of weights if you have enough pulleys in the right place. You forego speed for patient progress. A lot of setting up and a little progress. Take your time, set a realistic pace, stay patient and stay safe. No working in the slippery rain with big timbers for example. Just been told off by the council for an untidy allotment!😩. Shielding and not much zip has got me in bother. Will probably have to hire help to catch up. Not the idea really. But, I can't ignore this limitation, so I'll make a change to sort things out. If you get my drift. Cheers! Stephen. Oh! By the way 36th wedding anniversary ❤ today 🥰😍🥰. The doves are cooing. It's raining so hard the rain looks like spaghetti. No catch up gardening today. Bye for now.

[@LearnandLive97]

Very realistic 👌 A Mentor too us all!!! The truth is the Truth !!

[@jerrykurban7538]

Hi. Shawn,wish you all the best