Winter has Arrived | Filling up the Wood Shed

[@SimpleLivingAlaska]

The Toum (Lebanese garlic sauce) we made was absolutely out of this world! We totally recommend trying it. 😍 Our 2023 Alaska Calendar is available here for purchase here: www.createphotocalendars.com/Shop/simplelivingalaska Wishing everyone a warm and festive Holiday Season! 🍂🦃 ~ Eric & Arielle

[@alannagilmore8982]

Love you guys! Awesome job!

[@charles6631]

toum is specicaly and exclusivly eaten with chicken!

[@nadias5192]

Another enjoyable vlog of living off grid in Alaska wishing you both an enjoyable festive season. Thankyou for your time and efforts each week

[@pattibrown1809]

I'm totally gonna make that!! It looks AMAZING!👍🤤

[@leeannwilliams6775]

Garlic sauce is amazing on all veggies and meat. I used it also to marinate my meat and the bbq it sometimes. Mix with hummus for another kick to pita bread.

[@nanwanwon95]

I'm a Southeast Asian and I always watch videos from this channel. I get to experience winter lifestyle virtually and I've learned a lot. Even though I never once touched a snow, I feel like it's cold here lol

[@lindanicholas1705]

Nice to watch people getting ice and snow on them when we in the warmer parts of the earth, never see it let alone feel it all......

[@russellwatters5891]

Floridian, transplanted from Wisconsin. It takes a special kind of person to enjoy snow and cold, I turned out not to be one..lol

[@reeree6682]

I love snow. Maybe one day you'll take a trip to the mountains in your country? It's worth the effort, even if you don't like it. It's an experience, right?!

[@katieparker8560]

I wish I could seen u some I didn’t know it doesn’t snow where ur from 😢

[@kindnessmatters4068]

I LOVE winter! I was born in PA and half grew up in Ohio... snow is my favorite season!!

[@sagefool5786]

I love how you both do everything together when it comes to chores, from gardening to cooking to logging!

[@Helenemonblogdefille]

I didn’t think I would say that, but I found the new headlamps as amazing as the garlic paste 😂

[@northerngirlhobbies]

haha

[@megarusha]

Those headlights really made a massive difference!

[@lisabailes1065]

Go, Arielle, go!!! If it had been an eight hour competition you would have most definitely won!! 😂🎉😂

[@DaveMartin-co8et]

It was hilarious that Eric was trying to demonstrate that hand splitting firewood can be faster and Arielle thought he was competing with her. Her comments about Eric taking the "competition" too seriously and it not being fun looked like a classic case of the pot calling the kettle black. Thanks for being such a good sport about it Arielle. If Eric had done both the hand and hydraulic splitting it would be hard to know whether he was intentionally going slow on the machine splitter to make a point. Most people who have used both come to understand that hand splitting can be faster but machine splitting doesn't wear you out as fast and a machine will split knotty wood that is very tough to split with a maul. Thanks for the video !

[@kamaliancirranoush1916]

@@DaveMartin-co8etthe first time I used a splitter it was a revelation lol. The satisfaction of watching those knotty pieces split apart was surprising! I do still like to use the maul as it is faster once the rounds are split in half or so. Nothing better than chopping wood on a winter day in the company of the squirrels and chickadees!

[@cgoodwin5928]

Love the content of the daily tasks, but WOW....that drone footage is breathtaking!

[@shellybielawski1773]

Eric you’re amazing with all things that you tackle and figure it out and also with keeping up with maintaining everything. Great job!

[@wernerstruebing116]

Don’t forget Arielle, what a tough and hard working lady, a superb team. Wishing both of you a blessed Christmas and stay safe. Werner Strübing from Germany

[@heatherclayton-callaghan4270]

@@wernerstruebing116 Nobody is forgetting anyone. It is quite alright to praise one person without having to include anyone else. ; even when it's a couple. People are not that insecure that everyone needs a trophy for participating...this is the narrative of the WOKE society today's world. Please don't participate or encourage such a negative approach to human society.

[@WanderingBobAK]

@@heatherclayton-callaghan4270 Haha! You tell them how to think!

[@dingc.velasco6038]

This episode writes the book on winter prep. So many folks will be getting up from their sofas after recalling one or two jobs Eric did in this vid that they forgot about.

[@WanderingBobAK]

Bahaha! Quilty!

[@Per_Ragnar]

Just have to appreciate the beautiful drone shots that played around 9 minutes into the video. Great work!

[@lbrown6859]

Y'all wear me out!! Anyone that has watched the 2 of you for any length of time knows that there is nothing lackadaisical about you!! Stay safe and I hope that you have a blessed Thanksgiving! ❤️

[@shellybielawski1773]

I can’t believe that y’all had the energy to make a great meal after doing all that work you did earlier God Bless y’all Love 💕 you!

[@smoczajama1]

The best, however, is the pork chop with cabbage and potatoes, in Polish, and pork scratchings for potatoes. Greetings from Poland.

[@brockshields9336]

Work Hard, Play Hard, Eat Hearty, to have the calories to do it all again!

[@celinedemaine7333]

If you two ever decided too make that extra property into a b&b , you’ll make so many bookings! Would definitely love too experience Alaska and learn from the both of you and I’m sure many here would agree. You guys are the best❤

[@susanhighfield8284]

Holy mily what a difference in the headlight! Beautiful scenic video guys. You never disappoint. The garlic whip bread looked amazing. I would so love being there for winter all prepared like you guys are. Snuggle in for good food and a fire.

[@seekhisface5139]

I been watching you two over 3years and I'm still in awe at how much you two love one another!!! It's so apparent when I watch you work, talk, laugh and share life's moments!!!! No relationship is perfect but damn if you two don't put that theory to shame!!! The way you share a meal to how you work at the tasks of making your videos. Please never compromise your values, and never stop being Eric and Ariel!!!! Your the best!!!!!

[@suzannesnow7485]

All I can say, Eric & Arielle, you are simply AMAZING! ❤❄️☃️⛄️

[@djnana1156]

Dido!!

[@sgrvtl7183]

💗💚💙

[@martha844]

I totally agree

[@pattin4015]

You two work so hard! Always getting things done while having good bonding time--what teamwork! Puts to shame some of us who expect life to be easy. You reap the benefits/satisfaction of having done all the work for yourselves. Have a good winter!

[@bobross5580]

You two are wonderful! I keep thinking how did you both get so lucky to find each other? You both seem so calibrated to each other and you seem pretty transparent as well. I am looking forward to seeing you get settled in the new place (Guessing that will happen) and look forward to all the bread breaking and sharing of recipes and canning secrets!!

[@candacemeifert-polk7383]

You two amaze me at everything you can do. You are perfect for an Alaskan life. Love these videos

[@PippiD]

I love all your videos!! Procrastinators is not word t I would think ever applied to you two. Hardworking, joyful, content, honest, kind, and innovative are few few that come to my mind! Stay safe and warm and know you are appreciated for the joy and information that you share with the world out here. Hi from Florida .

[@notthereyethomestead8413]

That is incredible how hard you two work and together to accomplish so much, then Arielle creates an awesome new meal while Eric is prepping everything that has a motor for winter!!! This absolutely amazes me each year that you show this!! Thank you for sharing your lives with all of us!!! Blessings in abundance!!

[@ladyryan902]

My gosh funny I laughed out loud at Ariel trying to force the splits😂 but that machine saves the back

[@hardenmama1800]

I love when you add the date, temperature and sunrise/sunset information on your videos. Lots of hard work in this one, as per usual. The homestead is looking beautiful in the blanket of snow - the color of the house is just lovely. Genius solution for the headlight!

[@sknap2728]

Love to c that info, too

[@jjallie18]

I so appreciate how you both prioritize safety, from wearing protective gear to weatherizing everything. Thanks for another great video and wishing you both a Happy Thanksgiving!💕

[@yarly3180]

The speed contest didn't look *that* safe to me, it increases the chance of accidents .

[@jjallie18]

They have much experience and they were careful in how they did the challenge but your concern shows how caring you are.

[@elizabethlink3993]

💚Wow, what a huge difference those new headlights make! It really must be such a great feeling being so well-prepared for winter! The Toum looks so yum 😋. I've seen that somewhere else recently and definitely want to try it. Happy Thanksgiving 🍁 💚

[@wakeupamerica2024]

@@yarly3180 If you think that looks unsafe you should just avoid homesteading at all costs and continue to live in the bubble wrapped world. Absolutely nothing they did looked unsafe

[@WanderingBobAK]

@@yarly3180 Haha! Arm Chair Quarterback. You tell 'em

[@BWillalldayerrday]

You both are amazing! My favorite part of the video was Eric’s musing, “We start where you always do: the tip.” I love that you find humor even in physically challenging work!

[@Q-BinTom]

There is something therapeutic about watching others chop and stack up firewood now that I live on the big island of Hawaii. Love the drone shots love your channel keep doing what you’re doing

[@wandagordon6453]

It’s been a long day here in the South, but I couldn’t go to bed without watching you guys! I’m fighting to stay awake when I hear “putting the headlight in the oven. “ 😂 I don’t think there’s anything y’all can’t do, make, or fix! The drone footage was awesome! Hope you guys have a wonderful and blessed Thanksgiving. God bless y’all. 😀❤️

[@alexiahitchings9344]

I love how it is warmer in Alaska then in Minnesota right now. Starting to plan an Alaska trip this winter!.

[@tersta1]

I think that was filmed on Oct 28. I'm looking at 18" of snowfall as of today on the south shore of Georgian Bay. It's been snowing for a week almost non-stop. Temp is sitting at 20 F in daylight. This is still "warm". I do agree that Alaska does seem to look rather balmy at times. Maybe the ocean brings in warm air for them, like it does for Europe. We're on the same latitude as Spain and they grow date palms and oranges there. Can't do that in Minnesota, can yah! LOL!

[@anna27446]

I’m in Minnesota and it’s COLD today! Lol

[@aubreyjackson9770]

I'm in Washington State and I have all the windows open it's 50 and sunny out!

[@deblarsen8528]

@@anna27446 Yup! I am in Minnesota too and it's 11° right now! THINK SPRING EVERYONE! 😄

[@DaveMartin-co8et]

@@deblarsen8528 I can't wait to go ICE FISHING and you're trying to jinx it ! Our lake near Virginia, MN has barely started to freeze! 😂😆😂

[@stanleygallman7800]

I'm such a big fan of the channel and from your very first year in Alaska I have been so amazed at how the two of you have adjusted and it's really for anyone not knowing your back story they might think that you have been native Alaskan your entire lives. So I'd just like to say thank you so very much for sharing and making this a really enjoyable experience over these last few years and also for coming across throughout with such consistency and of being good down to earth nature loving, hardworking, outdoors type of people who obviously love a simple but truly fulfilling life.

[@cameronmoffett181]

Spot on!

[@ignaciaforteza7731]

By golly, you are at it again!!! Hard working loving team. It’s a real pleasure to watch you and the artistic part of this video just great, fills my heart. Such a pleasure to be with you. Happy thanksgiving my dears ❤

[@drummerlovesbookworm9738]

You guys are so cheerful when you work. I hear the Seven Dwarves singing “Whistle While You Work” lol.

[@jeanneamato8278]

HUUUUUGE difference in headlights. The moose can see you and you can see the moose. Is there ANYTHING you can’t do? You are both amazing and have a fantastic thanksgiving and all your followers also.

[@ksandoval3130]

I love Eric’s can do spirit. It’s awesome to see someone able to fix and maintain so much equipment. I feel it’s almost a lost skill on the youth of today since so many high schools have taken wood shop and auto out of the curriculum options.

[@rachelhale304]

So beautiful. You guys live such an awsome life. Watching you guys is inspiring. The love and respect you two have for each other makes me feel like there is hope for us all out there. Thank you for sharing your lives with us!

[@loristephens3016]

Brings back many happy memories. We heated with wood for over 50 years. One year, my father got 1/2 a wooden bridge that the county was replacing. They even delivered it because we lived so close. The problem was, it was all in one piece. That was my summer job, turning it into firewood. The neighbors were shocked! I was a 15 year old girl using a 15 lb sledge hammer and steel wedges as well as a double headed axe! Now days it would be child abuse! I had so much FUN! Best summer job ever and we enjoyed a nice warm house all winter.

[@amysusanapplepie199]

OMG! What a difference. You both constantly amaze me with your ingenuity and hard work. Thank you for sharing your adventures. 😀

[@terrybarnhill6144]

I really enjoy watching KZbin kids work together it's beautiful I'm 74 years old I'm fairly new to your Channel and I'm very impressed I've watched you before and I have subscribed I just wanted to leave you this message how much I enjoy your adventures you're cooking all I can say now is God bless you kids and I say kids because I'm 73 years or 74 I don't know how old I am but God bless you

[@cindyparker9920]

Y’all really need to make a video about how y’all know so much about everything! Eric is a builder, electrician, plumber, car mechanic and more. Arielle knows everything about gardening, planting, canning, photography filming etc. y’all amaze me everyday. Where did y’all learn how to do all these things. What did y’all do before moving to Alaska??

[@oldpossum57]

Y’all gotta make a video bout « y’all », Cindy.

[@davidthornton8490]

Operating a engine powered wood spliter is the only way to go.Watching you prepare your winter wood brings back many good memories. My advice to you is to enjoy your good health and strong bodies they are a gift from God.

[@myboyzr2]

Yay! I’ve been waiting for a new video! Ty for making my day Arielle & Eric!

[@gregjsinclair]

Looks like your set to go, looking forward to some Ice Fishing .

[@Toti-b6q]

Lovely ❤ Happy Thanksgiving for you both🎉🎉

[@CarolynnMc01]

Eric cracked me up with his speedy log splitting. He was going gangbussters! If he can keep up that pace for very long, he's a real trooper. I loved my log splitter (much easier on my old body!). Have a great day! Love your videos.

[@francinerose5042]

Amazing to watch you two prepare everything for winter!💗

[@bruceg5729]

Looks like Eric's the winner because he has you!

[@mattshaw6259]

Its amazing how super mundane activities like this are gold because it was recorded in Alaska

[@earlshaner4441]

Good afternoon from Syracuse NY everyone thank you for sharing your adventures in life

[@frugaldeb]

I’m in central ny neat Clinton

[@steveviau7159]

Liverpool NY thanks for all the videos

[@sarah082177]

Praying for all of you in NY, 77 inches of snow!!?? Great Googly Moogly!!! Stay warm, check on your neighbors, and know that MANY are praying for you❤

[@earlshaner4441]

Hi my friends and thank you for the prayers

[@earlshaner4441]

Thank you everyone for sharing and caring we take care of the people around us

[@joeyhardin1288]

Thank You. Central Kentucky; Burley tobacco country. When the season would come to an end (usually after Thanksgiving) and the tobacco sold, my grandfather would take the whole family out to eat. It was to a Jerry's Restaurant and he would get a half fried chicken dinner. Thanks for the memories. God Bless and stay safe.

[@karenlemley8656]

I live in Canton Ohio and it sure is cold here. I don't like the cold. It's hard on my arthritis but I love watching y'all do all the things that you do in the snow. You both work so hard together and I love that you work together. You're an awesome couple. Eric, you are a great partner to Aerial... It's nice to have a husband like that. I'm 70 now and I miss having my wonderful and loving husband Lawson by my side. I was only 35 when he died and he was 46. What a wonderful husband he was and when I see you and Aerial doing so much together I really dream that it was me and Lawson doing it. I miss him so much... Even after 35 years. He was my heart and soul. God bless you both! I love y'all ❤️❤️🙏🙏

[@candih5636]

No one on this channel would ever say you are shrugging your winter prep!!! You two work so hard and do all your own repairs etc. We admire you!!! Keep up the amazing content.

[@missbehavin8673]

Wow, those new headlights made an enormous difference. Good job!

[@regalbowman3143]

I split my wood using a 15 inch used tire attached with 4 screws to my splitting log which is slightly larger in diameter than the tire opening, fill inside the tire with as many logs that fit and split away, peices do not fall on the ground.

[@garynoll700]

You definitely have got it down, as it really works.

[@panagiotakaragiannidou1708]

Είστε καταπληκτικοι,σας ακολουθώ από Deusland!!!

[@StanosMarios2579]

Πραγματικά θα συμφωνήσω! Ζούνε σ ένα υπέροχο περιβάλλον και το μόνο που κάνουν είναι να δημιουργούν!!

[@mitchellmcpherson8489]

I had to pause and enjoy the smile as Ariel was conceding speed to the maul and as a consequence Eric would have to split the rest, being as the maul is more efficient, so this is a true LOL 😆.

[@yvonnepoe9926]

No one could ever say you to were lazy, hardest working couple I have ever seen.You are amazing.

[@CresswellTim]

"Oh the weather outside is frightful, but the fire is so delightful, and since we've no place to go, let it snow let it snow, let it snow." Dean Martin.

[@morarumarianaaura972]

🥰🥰🥰 sending love and appreciation from Germany

[@_Elijah_1979]

Living out in the woods, especially in Alaska is serious business 💯

[@advertisercommerce6990]

WOW! Those new headlights really are spectacular! Really light up the way!

[@antoinettemarie-stautertri4010]

Always feels good when projects like getting ready for season changes is done! Awesome headlights!

[@mjgbabydragonlet]

I love how much you are able to get done, and how well you communicate. I am having some serious light envy...Not sure how Virginia would feel about lights that bright. You both work so hard to build the life you have chosen. I really look forward to your videos. I truly appreciate the drone footage. Alaska is so beautiful.

[@lindapetersen1800]

Keep on working Kids it is hard work but great for you !!! It will keep you warm now then burning the wood in the winter time !!!

[@andy123605]

I'm sure there were no vampires around the cabin after that dinner! Cheers, and good luck this winter!

[@annstewart1983]

So happy for you guys, Eric you are a Jack-of-all trades. You two work so hard, but that’s also rewarding when you see the fruits of your labor. Just thinking how nice it would be if you guys had a sauna to warm up in. I wish for you both all the best in life, because you deserve it. God bless until next time.

[@dianamajchrzak5855]

Love the photography! ❤️

[@marianchristmas4638]

A ma zing! Fixing generators, trucks, you-name-it, Eric can do it! You show us all the hard work it takes to live off grid! Both of you have energy and knowledge to make everything awesome! Can’t wait to see your new adventures!

[@exploringoutdoors]

haha yes new video! Been waiting for this. Your videos always calms me during a hard day or week. Love relaxin' and watching them. Great channel!

[@jocelynvincent3609]

I have never see two people work so hard, and seem to enjoy each day, you make most of your own food, have chickens, go fishing, and so much more, but have your freedom. I am watching from Canada, and like watching your videos. Thanks for sharing your beautiful life with us. Much love ❤to you both ❤

[@Only1sticks]

Awesome work!!!! Now you can settle in and enjoy winter ❄️

[@scottburbridge3170]

my relatives have had the wood splitters for the past 40 years; lifesavers. when Eric is old, he will only be using the machine. what you made in the kitchen looks wonderful. the headlights modification is interesting.

[@danielga1097]

Amazing how you do all by yourselves! you are the ones that would survive an apocalypsis! I admire that. And despite the difficulties and trials of that life that you have chosen you get the reward of being your own bosses.

[@billierenshaw3302]

Wow ..what a difference..in the lights ….is there anything Eric can’t do ….soooo efficient….love you both …good TEAM 🥰🥰

[@anajoaquina]

Olá Eric e Ariel, chegou o inverno pra vcs, dias de muita luta, trabalho, neve são heróis .Amo os vídeos como sempre de parabéns desta seguidora vovó do Rio de Janeiro, Brasil. Abraços quentinhos

[@NuocMamDaily]

Thanks for another entertaining, informative video. You two rock !!! Eric, could I get the recipe for the baked headlight dish? That looked YUMMY 😂 !!!!

[@rickthelian2215]

Great splitting, those lights are awesome 😊

[@gailrothermund9209]

Wow! Love the new headlights! I drive a lot at night and these would be so helpful.. stay safe and warm guys! Take care! ❄️

[@ЕВГЕНИЙРОДИОНОВ-м4ч]

Удачи вам,вы молодцы.

[@curtishelfrich1943]

Slow and steady wins the race.

[@MitchellsInAlaska]

Preparing for winter in Alaska is always a big chore. It looks like you two thought of everything. Those headlights are awesome

[@SimpleLivingAlaska]

Hope you folks are doing well!

[@MitchellsInAlaska]

@@SimpleLivingAlaska we doing well. Thank you

[@teedub1990]

Having never lived in winter, it's surprising how much work goes into protecting your stuff against it.

[@hannahthehomesteader]

SO much work. Anything that has any moisture can freeze - from the ground to your pipes to your engine. I had 2 hard weeks of work to prep my wood pile, my engines, my livestock, irrigation systems, etc. Then, every day, you're keeping the fire going, keeping livestock water from freezing, and staying ahead of the weather so you don't get stuck at home with no supplies in a bad storm. But, for me, this is the life!!

[@cindyparker9920]

I wish we had seasons in Texas. Love all your videos and watch some of them multiple times. I sure will miss all the garden and canning videos next year.

[@stevenpage8847]

I must’ve missed that. Why no garden?

[@ruthiemay423]

@@stevenpage8847 They're moving...

[@carolwalton2277]

I must have missed that too. Why are they moving?

[@jeanjearman2025]

Arielle is at her best when in her chef environment creating unique and flavorful dishes.

[@kathleensalada1944]

We love these videos!

[@lindacox8156]

WoW - the hard work you 2 do all the time!! I am so impressed by ALL the knowledge and skills you both have in soooo many areas! You really are very self sufficient! With every video I am amazed! On this video it was watching Eric change out the headlights on the truck - what a difference it makes!!

[@debrabournes9267]

Great job guys

[@burninghair]

I was pretty wide-eyed on the beastly attack Eric did on those 4 logs, lol. He put all his might in those swings! Great footage views Eric! And that Toum looked so creamy and yummy Arielle!

[@mattsara2802]

😂 looks like Eric will be splitting by hand 😆

[@bobuncle6962]

As a person who splits wood both ways, you are limited by the slow machine. However by the end of the day, I think that I will stay with the splitter. I can move the next day!

[@Salutaris13074]

The difference however is that Ariel could go all day splitting wood that way - Eric however would not be able to maintain that pace with the axe all day so ultimately, in the long run the splitter would have won hands down in performance.

[@faithrada]

There's nothing more satisfying than a woodshed FULL of stacked, split wood. 😆

[@gcarmichael]

Well done - as always.

[@diannegriffith5444]

I have binged your videos for two weeks. They are absolutely captivating. Thank You for sharing some of your life and your process for getting things done.

[@PaullaWells]

Great job, y'all! I was just thinking about the winter prep y'all needed to do the other day so it does my heart good to see you get it all done. Love the new headlights! That is way better and much safer!

[@dorethastephens5083]

Eric you did a great job with installing the headlights and working on the wood and the cars you're very talented and smart you and your wife

[@Agustin-jo8mv]

I'm so excited for next season, and the new cabin. haha

[@brolohalflemming7042]

Watching the wood chopping reminded me of staying on my grandfather's farm as a kid. If you're not tired, why don't you go chop some wood? Many years later, I still find chopping wood with a good maul strangely relaxing, and satisfying. Perhaps not as satisfying as relaxing in front of a good fire, with some of that toum though. I love garlic bread, so going to have to try making that.

[@amyh1045]

That River footage was amazing! I bet it feels good to have the winter prep done.

[@toddswenson9137]

A GARLIC TIME BOMB !!! great job on the firewood too.

[@williej3831]

You two are truly amazing!! Is there anything you can’t do? I love watching the rivers freeze. Great video as always.

[@jameskim62]

Wow with headlight bulb Mod. Very NICE !!!!!!!

[@dlaitch]

Watching the teamwork Arielle & Eric display in prepping & filling the wood shed is heart warming That spirit extends into everything that they do. Taking the time to plan, get materials needed and do necessary maintenance activities will pay dividends over the coming months. Totally baffled about the new headlight system on the older Tundra though in respect to the complicated install and parts required. How new is this system ? Always a pleasure watching your adventures. Winter has surely arrived where you are. Brrrr. 👍👍👍.

[@jeanniewright2554]

WOWZERS!! Those are some powerful lights!!!

[@ryanchapman7904]

Love your videos ❤