In the Forest with my Wife and Dog | Off Grid Log Cabin in the Wilderness

A full week of off grid living in a log cabin in the Canadian wilderness, complete with a snowstorm, cast iron cooking, sauna bathing and ice fishing with my wife, D, and Cali the Golden Retriever.
Thanks for watching! New videos every FRIDAY. Please subscribe.
My Other Channel: Shawn James bit.ly/2xzZHpB
T-SHIRTS: teespring.com/...
Watch the playlists by clicking on these links:
Building an Off Grid Sauna: bit.ly/2IjvJsQ
Building a Log Cabin with Hand Tools: bit.ly/2MeEoOs
Building an Outdoor Forest Kitchen: bit.ly/2AFQJ99
Best of My Self Reliance: bit.ly/2OfW7ry
To see what I’m up to during the rest of the week, please follow me on my other online channels;
Website: myselfreliance....
Facebook - / myselfreliance
Instagram - / myselfreliance
My Mailing Address:
51 King William Street
P.O. Box 30017
Huntsville, ON
P1H 0B5
My Tools, Clothing & Other Gear:
www.amazon.com...
Cabelas: bit.ly/2AEp48v

[@101bergerboy]

Just came to a realization that I`d prefer to watch your videos (and a few other youtubers) instead of netflix/movies. So thank you for your time and peacefulness.

[@MySelfReliance]

Thank you

[@karencox6742]

I just started watching youtube. I came across your site by accident. I love what I am watching here, especially Cali playing in the snow. She is a good looking dog.

[@101bergerboy]

@@karencox6742 Yes these videos are very helpful, not only for the knowledge and wisdom, but for the meditative part. With everything that has been going on in my life, i look forward to be able to zone out during these moments while watching the vids. I started to do Video Blogs on my channel while i start to do counseling and get proper help.

[@immortalfae13]

Amen to that! Actually canceled Netflix!!!

[@timothyroberts1889]

I agree, "dear meat for dinner" is another one i like very much

[@jusDau]

Seriously, that dog is the happiest dog on the planet.

[@neillcampbell9737]

She Sure Is a Joy to watch

[@Pretzeliminator]

Indeed.

[@britinmadrid]

If she got the bone from the stew, then yes.

[@eduardoalvarez4405]

I don't think so, animals are happy just to exist so many dogs are happy

[@imadogman2]

Typical Golden Retriever... :-)

[@jyotiradityadeka2905]

Accidentally discovered this channel, Best accident of my life

[@denniswhite166]

How wonderful it is that your wife, your life mate has joined you. I pray for you and your marriage during this adjustment time and forever more. Also for your daughters who have just started out on their own. I've noticed you seem to smile more often now too. God Bless Shawn. See you next week.

[@briankleinkopf8557]

YUP Life is good! ^5s

[@ModernMountainLiving]

Amen

[@elliotazus6258]

Yes God bless

[@shauna5466]

Does that snowmobile always start when it is so cold? I know Canada has block heaters for cars. Do you keep it plugged in?

[@shauna5466]

@Warner Wells I was curious to see what mrs. James does also during the day or any woman with her man living off the grid & when he was on his fishing trip? She could be cutting up and freezing the meat he shoots. Cooking, reading, crafts who knows. We know she's not kicked back watching TV. ...lol

[@adelacoburn1396]

Cali is hilarious when it comes to snow, she's such a happy dog.

[@adelacoburn1396]

@Jim C. Yes indeed, I had a goldie, best dog EVER !

[@discoveryourworld1646]

Every human's dream who want peace and a relaxing life

[@strawman3059]

Especially now!

[@discoveryourworld1646]

@@strawman3059 indeed

[@denisedarrell6828]

She is so adorable, she's acting like a puppy. I'm glad you have D and Cali with you.

[@genefoust5569]

She is a good dog it is one of the best friends that a person could I have

[@liddybird3608]

She's wonderful!

[@HELIXGHOST]

Fact

[@peterstark9484]

In fact, dogs are where god goes on holiday...

[@CabinDweller]

Dogs are the best! I have a limit with time being around people but dogs, nope.

[@randyhawthorne7730]

This man's skill set is truly remarkable. No power tools in the buildings he does and all by himself. You are man's man sir.

[@CatHugs]

You're on the big screen tv from this moment forward. Your tv shows I mean videos are that fabulous, SERIOUSLY ❤️🙌🏻

[@kanamichelle7404]

I must be emotional today. The sight of that beautiful dog frisking and running in the snow actually made me tear up. Beautiful wife, loyal dog, good food, warmth, solitude. What more does a man need? You are the luckiest of all men.

[@joaquin10328]

you have right Kana.

[@fredgrove4220]

I would say, his wife is the luckiest of women, he does everything for her, i have never seen her do anything in that cabin, just play with the dog.

[@oldscout80]

@@fredgrove4220 They can't show the real good stuff!

[@stevestadel9400]

Agreed!

[@KM-bu8ec]

I think so, too. He is a very, very blessed man. ❤❤❤

[@daves.5301]

I always stop by the channel to see the progress on your cabin/camp. I end up staying for the peaceful bliss only nature can provide. Thanks for sharing this peace and serenity with us.

[@mountainmanandtheflatlande7739]

The new character on my favorite television show is a refreshing change. It's a family show now. Keep em coming

[@HBGarageyoutube]

2 good things about Friday...The Weekend and Self Reliance

[@mikew6840]

Cali - my favourite KZbin dog by far. Her tail never stops wagging and she is always playful and inquisitive. What a gem.

[@limlfc1892]

I was about to go out but then I realised it's Friday Night 🤣

[@limlfc1892]

@S T of course we go out and enjoy other things in life but before that there other priorities one of them is to watch Shawn's video 🤣

[@faulltw]

I know you must love having your wife out there to share your love of the out doors. She is a trooper!

[@deemoe4394]

WTF is there to dislike about this man and his pixels? I find so much comfort in watching the contemporary “Last Man on Earth”... Shawn is my Chief and Calley is my spirit animal. Your presentation of the great Canadian forest and being one with it, is absolutely captivating. Thank you so much for sharing your videos.

[@james-r]

You have to appreciate the amount of camera positions and editing that’s gone into making these videos

[@misty2782]

Thought the same thing. Amazing amount of work. Beautifully done!

[@CabinDweller]

It’s a lot of work for sure!

[@nissi_x]

Indeed.

[@niko.hylkema8626]

Maybe you could think ,there is a cameracrew involved...

[@jasonyuschak4223]

@@niko.hylkema8626 No there is not. He sets up the cameras

[@Rogdog692002]

As a Canadian expat, who has lived outside Canada for 15 years, your videos make me so homesick it positively hurts.

[@Judy.LoveandLightAlways]

The great thing about these video's is that you feel like your actually there experiencing everything. Like a really good book, you feel like your there. Just Amazing These video's. Thank you from Australia xx

[@trishaharrison3692]

We are so lucky to have you in our lives. Thank you for another piece of paradise. The footage of you and Cali on the ice was spectacular. She must find it hard going with dad or staying home with mom.😍

[@marieharrison150]

I just love that your wife is with you. I really enjoy watching more. Cali was having such a good time

[@kepps7507]

I enjoy watching this KZbin channel more than watching any show on tv! I truly love watching Cali,and now your beautiful wife is a wonderful addition to your channel.

[@Saurles]

Cali is one of the most precious creations ever! The world is a better place for me because of her and your generosity. Thank you

[@cherrymccall4806]

Love that Cali girl. She is so happy playing and enjoying her dog life with her family. Awesome video!

[@RatdogDRB]

This is how a man is at peace and healing inside. God's preparation for the next phase of life. Blessings to you and your family (the furry member also).

[@ltj18taylor73]

Awesome!! I have watched you from the beginning, building the cabin from scratch. Much love to you, your wife,. and Cali.. Absolute respect and admiration!!!!

[@Dzidekification]

Oh my, Fonde in the cabin like the Swiss dish is intended to do- to warm-up ! I got my glass of wine , feet up and My Self Reliance, here we go. Cheers to happy weekend !

[@davidgoodwin6191]

I really do feel like I have a pointless life when I watch your videos bro. Over here in the uk we are so limited to what we are able to do. Don't get me wrong my friend, I really do try to make the best of what I have, and also for my son. But you guys really do have it sussed out. Hats off to you mate, your videos are truly precious and beautiful. And your dog is to die for. Have never in my life seen such a beautiful and happy loved dog. Your skills in construction are a true blessing, and you have not wasted them. So you deserve the absolute best in life. Loads of love David and family 👍🙏👌

[@garydrew548]

I’ve lived in London England all my life the system has me well in trapped work bills concrete everywhere I get out to the countryside every opportunity i can to escape so it brings me so much happiness to see a fellow human being livening the life I can only dream of....🇬🇧

[@azteka6103]

I'm living in UK aswell, as an immigrant, i must admit i got sick of it, not much of a life.

[@user-hx1nr9ru1p]

@@azteka6103 The UK has a lot to offer. Having lived all over, it definitely is what you make of it: if you find a place suited to you it matches nearly anywhere else in the world. Though of course not everyone has the opportunity or resources to move around like that in the first place.

[@ronalrocco4922]

Just, Do It! Get out of the City while you can. You are in charge of your own destiny. That's the point.

[@dolycha5323]

I think this was one of my favorite videos. Cali is crazy thrilled and you smiled several times in this one.

[@zariballard]

Cali steals the show every time! I love that you both love her so much. She's a happy dog.

[@38below39]

You sure go through a lot of work . to keep us youtube followers entertained / thanks Shawn

[@SWC44]

Neil lee pop a Wheelie , DITTO, THERE SUPER, IF ONLY SMELL A VISION!!!!!!YEA!

[@katiea.584]

Loving the winter wonderland, fishing, solar..but most of all Cali and her joy in the adventure with dad. Thanks again for another episode of your life Shawn and family. 👍🏼🇨🇦☮

[@duskbloom]

Your dog lives life with the kind of spirit we should all live life with. Give that dog extra pats from me

[@jewels7832]

It's wonderful seeing your wife there with you. Cali's snow face was to cute! Love your videos & as always thanks for sharing! 😊🐾

[@marianfrances4959]

Welcome, Mrs. James! Love that belt for the sled, Shawn. Cali leaping for snow and digging for water brings joy. Excellent music. Tks !! 😊

[@arvindarabi1694]

I wish you had more dogs I wish I’d see more dogs as happy as Cali in this world The first thing I subscribed you for is Cali Keep him happy

[@jaditelady173mary4]

I love that dog too. He seems to get a lot of attention.

[@veronicajean3612]

Cali makes me believe Golden Retrievers still got it. memories of my favorite dog I ever owned come flooding back, It was 40 years ago. I never got another one. Boy what a dog. He would come to my school and find me in any class I was in. I still miss him. Cali seems on par. Perhaps I will have another. Love the channel

[@realreallynow]

I’ve followed your videos for some time now. I love the great content and showing how to live with the land. Just wanted to take a moment to say thank you.

[@realreallynow]

I’d love to learn more. I look forward to seeing more videos

[@theguardian5090]

What more could a man ask for, beautiful wife and a loyal dog. Some people figure out life a lot sooner than others !

[@jmgarza1288]

Hey shawn, glad to see you guys thriving in the middle of that serious winter there in Canada! Respect all the way from down south Texas!

[@Ingens_Scherz]

Wonderful. I feel so much peace when I watch the latest episode in this elegant and unique diary, it's become a quiet go-to place in my mundane, busy life.

[@earlshannon1048]

Your show has help me more then you can know! I've lost 2 of my fur babies in 4 months. Watching you and your wife with Cali warms my heart!!! Thank you 3 for sharing your life, your a blessing!!

[@ashleighjaimaosborne3966]

Earl Shannon sorry for your losses. It’s never easy to say goodbye to them. Be well 🇨🇦

[@SharpPear]

Sorry to hear about your furbabies. Do take care .🤗

[@stevestadel9400]

So sorry!

[@williamroland8924]

Shawn. New to this . I from Minnesota as a child. Moved with mom and dad in1963. I do not know about what you did in business but I am amazed. about your woodworking knowledge to be able to build what you did from scratch. I have worked as a carpenter but my forty is antique furniture repair and restoration. I was an apprentice. Kudos to you sir for your knowledge and ability.

[@williamroland8924]

@@SharpPear you must be demented.

[@debfulton5876]

I absolutely love watching you and your wife playing with and loving all over Cali! 🐾❤️

[@justlistening7953]

100 times better than anything I could have watched on TV. Thank you, sir. 👍🏻🇺🇸🇨🇦🦮

[@מתןהאריטר]

There's 3 thing that someone cant stop looking. Fire burning. flowing water. And a person during physical work. Your channel fits good !

[@mzmz7039]

you forgotthe dog

[@Kathy_Is_Blessed]

Wowww!! I bet this was Cali’s best fishing ‘trip’ ever!!! 🤣🤗🥰☃️🥰 All the food looked so delicious all through this video. Loved it! ♥️🌿

[@dontbeadrone]

Shawn, you are extremely blessed. Of the nearly quarter million people who have viewed this video, I'm sure a lion's share would love to trade places with you, even if only for a day. I know I would.

[@stevestadel9400]

Me too!

[@LindaCasey]

You know, our grandparents are surely smiling at all us 'yungin's' wanting to get back to the simple life. While yearning for modern conveniences and ease of living for themselves, all they ever wanted was to give their own kids/grandkids the things they never had. 💜

[@ltoa4014]

This looks great but this man works all day long.

[@joshrhoades7034]

Love that dog! She thinks everything’s a game, so full of life! Great personality!

[@CountryCampers]

-27F Wow Shawn that's mighty cold. Glad you have plenty of wood.

[@jacklyndlask-hickman734]

I love to watch the joy your dog has playing in the snow!

[@skygerspacher6891]

lots of things to love about this one. Love that dog. Love the warm ambiance of your cabin home. Love the idea of fresh fish for dinner and the snow is beautiful. The colors of the lovely evening blue snow and the deep orange lights from your home is especially tasty.

[@cazpk6840]

I saw a dog today and thought of Cali cos they looked so alike :)

[@alterego3525]

Few things bring a deep sense of comfort like walking home through the snowy woods and seeing wood smoke rising from the chimney. Home and heat are near. Excellent video.

[@SparksofOhio]

A boy and his dog, life doesn’t get any better than that! 👍✌️😎

[@susanfrenz6653]

Thank you so much for sharing this life you lead. Your Cali has taken my heart..... may she live on and on.....

[@tyronesart]

Looks like your really starting to get established , I guess all the pieces to the puzzle are coming together ☺️ favorite channel 👍

[@staceyramos7810]

I’m already addicted to your videos

[@Marty3750]

Cali symbolizes everything I want to be as a human being. Loving, loyal, adventurous, etc.

[@kelperdude]

I watch your videos to see your happy dog. :)

[@supriya-c1h]

Kind of peace in life everybody wants. The beauty of nature, snow ❄️

[@Dr.Gunsmith]

The smells coming out of that cabin must be having all the wildlife mouth’s watering 😂 nice looking meals.

[@EpicAdventures1978]

Shawn James, I'm so proud and happy for you. I've been following you since you started. I must say I am extremely impressed. Also I'm so happy that you and your wife are finally together, she seems like a sweetheart. It's a great thing to be together. I admire your hard work. Some day I pray to do the same. It's been hard for me for the last two and a half years, going through a divorce. I'm so tired of this way of life, slaving for another. I would love to be more self sufficient in life. Love you and continue to put out great videos.

[@krasje28]

404 folks dislike this, i'm honestly shocked. Whats to dislike on this, i can't think of anything. The camera positioning , the slow motion shots , the dog well everything is so gorgeous.

[@marlenecardinahl9346]

Ya me too- shocked

[@mlr4524]

Probably the dead bear....not a fan myself.

[@stuartstone6359]

There is a selection of the outdoors/bushcraft watchers that don't like the amsr and ninspeaking videos, maybe it's that?

[@krasje28]

@@stuartstone6359 Could be, but if someone is such person simply skip or don't watch it.

[@stuartstone6359]

@@krasje28 if say the same thing but sadly there are way to many people who need to show how much they don't like something before leaving it. On the plus side of things the algorithm doesn't disfingush between thumbs up and down it counts them both as an interaction and has the same affect

[@omgbygollywow]

This guy should be in the commercial as the "Most Interesting Man in the World".

[@knickerbockers2010]

for me every day there looks the same :), working and eating and thats it but somehow it seems that he has an inner piece and thats what counts

[@Bunefoo401]

Amen

[@psleep4255]

Amen!❤️🙌🏻❄️

[@jenifogg8980]

If all dogs could be as happy & respected as much as this one - the world would be a better place -- sheer unadulterated bliss - thanks for this great video

[@ryanblair8066]

Sean, this is probably my favorite youtube video of all time. I love the snow and wide open country.

[@yadabotbingo]

Say, wouldn't "My Self Reliance" calendars be great? Hardest part would be selecting which pics, there are so many magnificent images to parse through. A photo journal book series in the future perhaps.

[@Toytonia]

😊👍

[@crude4u1948]

He could do a calendar of just Cali and I would definitely buy one but I agree. It would be difficult, especially with all of the amazing drone footage that’s been shot. Maybe he could post an album on hi Facebook page and let the viewers vote on the their top 352 photos? Oh wait, you mean a monthly calendar. Lol.

[@davemi00]

A great idea, they would be a hit. with Cali the calendar dog 🐕

[@krasje28]

@@aletageer3633 hell yeah! if i see the food i say to my wife :" Look, that looks so delicious, and she reply's knock yourself out" ;)

[@ginnylorenz5265]

I sure would any calendar he put up for sale. It would be gloriously beautiful!!!!!

[@silvercat2466]

Finally it’s Friday!!! Love to see your happy life !

[@robinharris4247]

If more people lived like this the world would be a happier place, less stress, more self satisfaction, better health. Just watching your videos brings me peace. You have a beautiful home and it looks like a beautiful wife

[@robinharris4247]

THat was supposed to be life but your wife seems pretty awesome as well.

[@Woodrow1188]

You have been blessed with an amazing & wonderful dog

[@richevanscpa]

Cali is my emotional support pet! She makes every day a day of happiness!

[@DG-nv3nn]

Me to!

[@CabinDweller]

She’s adorable!!

[@msamelienp]

Cali is the cutest dog I've ever seen. I LOVE watching her every move and her facial expressions. LOL. Your videos are marvelous!

[@godalwayswins2408]

Is what Cali did rolling around the snow called a "dry" bath? :) She's such a happy beautiful dog.

[@jeanetteschulthe1andOnly]

she is always downwind of the snow dust.

[@ModernMountainLiving]

Dry Cleaning?

[@Ghostiification]

Nah, she just wants to make some snow angels! :D

[@dlsdyer9071]

Cali is a crack-up trying to catch the snow and being a "helper" digging the fishing hole. Made me smile!

[@memoore68]

I've been watching your videos for some time now and I enjoy them so much. I have cancer and I am quite sick a lot of the times I'm in so much pain so much so at times I feel I'm going crazy. Your videos are the first thing I run to to calm me! I have a lot of sleepless night because of the pain and I find myself dozing off because I'm so relaxed from your videos first off you're living my dream and even though I'm sleeping I can still hear the things you're doing in your video and I find it very soothing. And your dog is just super cute. I wanted to say thank you for your videos you have saved my sanity and helped me many sleepless nights!🌹❤

[@susang.7542]

I'll be praying for you Melissa!💜

[@kaynelsonhemphill3564]

And I will be praying for you.

[@carolmiller848]

Praying for you Melissa.🙏🏻❤️

[@royale4101]

This dog is the happiest dog ever. LOL

[@imstevebarry]

This was one of my favorite videos so far. Watching thias with my wife and dog, we all just smiled and laughed while watching how Callie was just having the best time out in the snow. Thank you for all you are doing.

[@danielvachon7994]

After serving as a Paramedic in Nova Scotia for nearly 3 decades, I was recently diagnosed with PTSD and now off work to heal and recover. Your channel has been therapeutic since I started watching last year. I selfishly wish you had a daily episode. I am living my dream through you vicariously. I worked in Parry Sound yrs ago and used to travel to Huntsville, Bracebridge and around Lake Rosseau, so I am familiar with the beautiful country there. Please keep up the great adventure. Can you put up a link to that solar pack we see you toting around? I am looking for something similar. Thanks. Cheers!

[@MySelfReliance]

I have two. The larger one is a Goal Zero Yeti 3000 and the small one is made by Jackery

[@CabinDweller]

Wow that's awesome about his videos helping you!! My best friend is from Parry Sound, small world! Good luck in your recovery.

[@LadyPurple911]

My 28-year-old son has PTSD and is truly suffering. You are right, this would be nice for him to watch. I'll mention it to him.

[@donnasloane9031]

This is such a fantasy for most of us...Thank you for the dream.

[@nancisailormoy9135]

Love watching Cali chase the snow that you throw. Always brings a smile

[@BrianthatiscalledBrian]

There aren't enough Fridays in a week. Thanks, Shawn, D, and Cali. 👍🙂

[@tatoogames5144]

Sua forma de viver é sensacional , doog lindo Family linda , parabéns.

[@matthewbeaumont6587]

I think your wife needs her own cooking segment :) Keep living the good life . Thank you for sharing . :)

[@matthewbeaumont6587]

@@richardparker1699 did you not actually see her in this video ?

[@DianneC8287]

Shawn, I got so tickled on your last couple of videos! First, the one where you whistled at your wife! What a sweetheart thing to do to your wife. Second, you wife telling Cali, “Momma don’t throw all that far,” as she let it rip throwing Cali’s fetch toy (to Cali’s glee) like a miles distance in the wood effortlessly! I thought, ‘Well what’s momma’s throw like on a bad day then!” Surprised and laugh out loud 😲🤗 You have a sweet wife.

[@laceyhouse5546]

I am in awe of your work ethic

[@Luiz27Gustavo]

like directly from Brazil, I really like your channel, congratulations on the quality of the videos

[@luizasantos8130]

🇺🇸🇧🇷🙋‍♀️

[@theresalero7039]

That's beautiful weather when you're snug safe and warm! I love your lifestyle. I got my canvas wood tote like yours today, I love it. You are a gifted videographer, thanks for sharing this beautiful video.

[@beckytyler4434]

I just loved this. But that dog though! She makes this whole video! Just beautiful!

[@sharonsalvatore9478]

Hi Shawn! What a fabulous dinner- made me so hungry. I got to get my My Self Reliance fix early today, YAY! God Bless🙏

[@rysaj1]

Calie sure knows how to enjoy life.

[@Niles442]

Cali steals the show from both of you! What a great performer she is!

[@Uglehytten]

This has to be one of the most beautiful winter videos I have ever seen Shawn. The fishing trip with Cali was absolutely brilliant. Well done good Sir. Thumbs up and cheers from Denmark.

[@nancywagoner8330]

The moments you will remember the rest of your life...love this

[@edaker4684]

Cali is such a happy pupper! 😁

[@juanitavirts7656]

So good to see you out and about again....it is just so amazing how things are going so well. Have a blessed day

[@scotta71]

I was wearing my cabin life hoodie out shopping the other day. The guy in front of me in the checkout line commented on it and it turns out he's a subscriber too. We had a really nice chat about your channel and our favourite episodes.

[@MySelfReliance]

Scott A ha, that’s awesome

[@0623kaboom]

@@MySelfReliance the minions are uniting now lol youre getting known ... good job lol in that note ... get some bananas in a video or two ;)

[@MLZ1957]

Iv watched most of his videos and cant get enough. That dog is so smart and just loves being out there! What a life.

[@drakegray6011]

I just started freaking out about no Friday video and then this popped up, perfect 👌

[@hanorabrennan8846]

Get help for that addiction! Lol

[@drakegray6011]

I am! Good ol Shawn James vids help 😂✌️