The Dirt: Why We're Going BACK ON GRID

[@rwoods6132]

Having just built our retirement home 2 years ago, trying to do it with off grid power (generators) would not have been fun. Being on-grid does not mean you have to be wasteful. We still heat our house with firewood in the winter and we don’t have to turn on the air conditioning until deep into the summer since we can open our windows without the fear of someone breaking in. When planning the house, having power when the power goes out was a important decision. We chose a whole house generator for ease and low maintenance. We looked at wind and solar but the maintenance and start-up cost became prohibitive. If it is what fits your life then do it. You don’t owe us anything. All of us that watch you guys enjoy what you do and we learn from it. Keep up the great work!

[@Moormores]

Who cares if you are off grid or on grid. Get your home built and then decide rather or not to be off grid. I am just happy to see you guys building something. I am wishing you the best.

[@Akhi11eus]

Living a prepared life is also about having backup systems, and mixed systems are best. You're making the right choice.

[@rnupnorthbrrrsm6123]

Akhi11eus .....well said !!! Being prepared for either way is smart !

[@allisonebrussin5227]

I’m watching this video from the 14th floor of a high rise in SF. I’ve got no stones to throw here. I’ve always liked that you do what makes sense to you, regardless of cultural pressures.

[@WildWonderfulOffGrid]

Y'all made a totally sensiblie decision! Balance is one of the keys to happiness 😊

[@Off-Grid]

Yep, you do what's best for your situation.

[@cloverdoll1228]

I think it's very smart to go back on grid. One of the big lessons Preppers teach is to not only think about plan A but to think about plans B, C, D, and so on. Going back on grid is just another Plan if you will. Everyone watching is getting older, like it or not... having your house on grid is going to make that transition easier. Not every 80 yr old is capable of continually chopping wood for winter heat. Not every winter will be sunny to where you can generate a lot of solar power or mild to where you can safely trek down the side of the mountain for more generator fuel. I find it completely ridiculous to hear preppers tell people to prepare for the grid to go down and have other means in place but chastise those who are off-grid for utilizing on-grid capabilities. In essence you could just say you're preparing for retirement age or thinking ahead in case you ever need to sell... thinking about the kids either moving in or selling the property after you've passed (sorry morbid). I'm glad to see that the comments I've read are all supportive regardless of whether you're on or off grid. I watched you when you were on-grid, off-grid, and will continue to do so because you put out informative, interesting, and entertaining content both on & off grid. I'm just glad ya'll aren't planning a "Break Up with KZbin" video. #ForeverFollower

[@amberwilder8650]

I'm so sorry you felt the need to explain going back on the grid. Wohoo, you're going to have the grid and a/c again! Congratulations, I hope that day comes sooner rather than later!

[@rdtradecraft]

The reason I subscribed is that you folks are common-sense minimalists and off-grid practitioners, using off-grid tech when you can, but using the on-grid stuff where necessary or prudent. Well done. I'm sure the planet will be just fine.

[@EGezy71]

No reason at all to explain. I agree 100 percent with you guys! Keep building and doing your videos and we will all keep watching and learning from you both!

[@LittleMountainRanch]

Absolutely yes, to all of this. We lived off grid for 2 years, and while I learned a lot from the experience, in the end we decided to buy an on grid farm. Like you, we want off grid capability, but we're not extremists about it and have been able to find a good balance. It is sad that so many people feel discouraged because going off-grid, or being 100% self sufficient (which is unattainable for pretty much everyone) isn't within their grasp. Just getting started where you are with what you've got and building on that is good enough. Awesome video as always.

[@ewjorgy]

Hi guys, Never apologize for what you believe in. What you are doing is logical, sensible and when everything is said and done, completely your choice. Do what makes sense for you. Keep up the great work and kudos from California ❤️

[@delindasmith5993]

It take a lot of courage, hard work, and true grit to do what you two are doing. Keep bringing the inspiration.

[@texasnative4803]

I applaud your decision 👏- You’ll have the best of both options- grid power when you need it and solar when the grid goes down- Do what’s best for y’all 👍👍

[@gratituderanch9406]

Part of why I’ve watched you for a few years is your balance and reasonableness. Be prepared Do your homework Check your property rights Know your neighbors. Never stop learning. Feel like you all keep standing for these principals. I’m glad for you guys. Just also glad you’re moving forward and being wise. Awesome! Can’t wait to see more

[@MikeSessler]

I think you made the smart call. If power is right there, why not avail yourselves of it. I've been processing this same balance as I plan out my upcoming homestead. Once I added up the KW needed to run the house Plus an HVAC (also a necessity in Middle TN), the solar system becomes quite large and expensive. Grid + solar + generator is probably the best of all worlds. So glad I found you guys and that you're 12-18 months ahead of me. It's really helping shape my thought process. Appreciate you!

[@HollisNancysHomestead]

There ain’t no right or wrong way to homestead. Live your dream in a way that works for you. Y’all are doing great. Keep up the good work❤️👍

[@bianchiesperia1148]

I really love your channel precisely for what you said: you are very practical and real people, and are not afraid to detach yourself from the all-in extremist views about homesteading. I think this makes your videos that much more relatable and real. Thank you for the time you put into sharing all of this!!

[@codemonkey2k5]

I never could understand why people get so bent out of shape about using the resources that are available to you. The power is available, use it if it benefits you. Your you have solar so you won't be dependent on it nor will you spend much money for it since it's supplemental. I think your decision is a sound one.

[@davidcasper8923]

The greatest cost for grid power is getting the lines to where you're building. You already saved that cost. Great job. Keep doing it like YOU want to do it.

[@billpaullin6527]

I've been watching you guys for a while now and have enjoyed watching you all. I feel you need to do what's best for you. Keep doing what you do ,and thanks.

[@mr.rodriguez3908]

Live YOUR dream in YOUR way! Thank you for sharing and for allowing us to watch it become reality. Best wishes.

[@mzabs1871]

I didnt even watch this yet but I dont blame you whatever your reason right now. Just because you make a channel and wanted to be off grid, doesnt mean you cant change your mind or change your mind again. What you did even for a short time is absolutely amazing. And if you wanted an hvac system just to be cool and warm, not even worry about mold and mildew, no one is gonna blame you and if they say something, they are just trolls.

[@elizabethchetwood1916]

Amen!

[@sharshar6522]

You two are such hard workers. Just do what you need to do!

[@klchallender]

You guys have had a hard time of it for several months now, and you haven't given up. No one can ever fault you for going back on grid. There is a lot to say about having electricity. It's a great dream to live completely off grid, one I've dreamed about myself, but after seeing what all you guys have been through, I no longer want that lifestyle. You gotta do what you gotta do! We just moved to NC from Michigan, and gotta tell ya, I would not want to live in this state without electricity!!! Not that it matters, but I think you made a wise decision. You'll have the best of both worlds. Looking forward to seeing the build of the new house.. Keep up the good work. 😊

[@googiesfairyfarm4834]

I think “self-sufficiency” means making the most of the resources available to you. Looks to me like that’s what you guys are doing. Looking forward to seeing what works for you!

[@jerrycoon4504]

I'm sure a lot of people will hassle you about the "off grid" stuff but what you are doing makes perfect sense. I always thought your channel was more about preparedness and sustainability anyway. Rock on!

[@dulaneyp]

In the long distance backpacking world, we have a saying..."Hike your own hike". Similar to the kids "you be you". In essence, you are the only ones who have the right to decide how you want to live. What convenience (or inconvenience) you want to deal with. Never feel the need to explain yourself or justify your decisions to people who are not living your experience. Ya'll are doing great with this project, don't feed the trolls. We tried the off grid thing also, it didn't work for us either. No shame in trying. We learned and moved on. Better than sticking with something that made us miserable, simply to prove a point to a group of people we really didn't know. Do what makes you happy. Your fans will support your decisions. Your trolls will troll no matter what you do.

[@PaulKelly1]

Your life, your home, your family, your choice. Glad I'm not reading any judgmental comments from people who's business it isn't... I enjoy your channel, keep it up guys :)

[@silasbland4515]

Smart move ! My philosophy on prepping, self-sustained living and off-grid lifestyles can be summed in one word: Insulation. You are insulating from the effects of what happens in the world around you. It isn't 100% isolation or immunity from the world, but you insulate your home and family from whatever SHTF scenario might occur.

[@AZMarine513]

One thing I like about you guys, good mix of adventure and experimentation and common sense practically.

[@JANDK2004]

I think you’ve made the perfect decision. Part of living this lifestyle is using the resources available to you, and having a back up plan if those resources suddenly become unavailable. That’s exactly what you’re doing.

[@beverleysimmons7885]

The most enjoyable part of your channel for me is your common sense. No ego big enough to see what you need to do for the end goal. Thank you for your hard work and honesty.

[@bev_jacka2969]

There is no right way for everyone, and respect your decisions for yourselves and your home. Love watching you guys, and so glad you are back into getting the home going. Thx for sharing your videos.

[@Will7981]

Smart decision in my opinion. Enjoy cheap, reliable electricity when it is available and have off grid backup options for SHTF scenarios. That's how I view the issue.

[@mfrederickson1]

You should never have to explain your reasons for being practical - we certainly appreciate it, but you guys have shown over and over your practical and realistic. Your reasons are sound and to be honest, most people would do the same. Love your channel and love your honesty. You guys are awesome - and inspiring. Please just keep doing what you're doing. We'll keep watching.

[@pnwester2697]

You guys are doing well. Common sense in everything you do. HVAC with good air circulation makes sense. You still live a frugal life. I applaud!

[@sierge1]

Love it. Prepping with common sense. That is what makes your channel so good.

[@judya.shroads8245]

My 104 yr old friend said one is none, two is one and three is two. If any equipment or tool broke, he had the means to keep working, because he had extra. He was a farmer on top of a mountain. So having elec and solar and hopefully a/c plus a wood burner is a benefit to your lives. Live as you see fit. Looking forward to see your house. Subs will make your project go more quickly.

[@LizZorab]

You don't need to justify going back on grid and thank you for explaining your (very sensible and thought-through) decision. We have solar panels which provide electricity when there's enough light and the rest of the time we are on-grid. As you say it means we can ensure a continuous supply of power. As yet we don't have batteries for storing power in case of a power outage - they may come in time. I completely agree that when you are thinking about the last home you'll live in you need to future proof it as best you can for all eventualities. Love and peace, Liz

[@perpetuallearner5416]

Being off-grid with a transformer 150 feet from the house is like cutting down your trees with a sharp rock when there's an axe in the barn. Does the axe cost more than the rock? Yes. But are you ABLE to buy an axe? If so, BUY THE DAMNED AXE!

[@Guildbrookfarm]

😂👍🏻😎

[@lynnb7511]

You don't have to explain what you are doing or not doing! No one has the right to question you, I have followed you and Jamie for a long time as many of your tribe have I remember the heart break of having to get rid of your animals, and looking for your special place. I would love to be in the exact place you are! I love electricity, and hope we never have to be without it, but if that happens , you best be prepared. I can't wait to see the home ya'll are building finished, keep on doing what you do, Hugs

[@jazfarm5726]

Our place is a solar, grid tied, battery backed up system. We produce all of our own power but if we need more we draw from the grid. Go for it. You can have the best of both worlds. Screw the purists. You will love it when you have to run trough heaters for the critters. Guys, you can still have your solar as primary with the grid as a back up! We have a switch that senses when the grid goes down and it switches over to batteries and you won’t even know it happened. The grid is a source if we need more power, but we also sell back to them if we produce more than we use. They are, in essence, a back up or extra generator. The batteries are a back up. They only fire up if the grid is down. Our inverter also has a circuit that will auto start our generator should the batteries need extra juice should we experience a lot of sunless days. Look into it. We love it.

[@terrafirma75]

You definitely don’t need to explain yourselves... stuff happens. I grew up in the coastal mountains because my father thought end of oil was coming in the mid-70’s. The world did not end. And every couple of years it’s something else that’s going to cause the apocalypse. When I started my homestead, I too thought I had to be 100% self sufficient and completely off-grid. My solar system was going to be about $60k (half that just for batteries!) long story made short, some issues came up with contractors and I ended up grid-tied. I still grow lots of our own food, we have wood heat as well as a propane boiler and we are slowly adding to our solar system incase something does happen. It’s like an insurance policy. But you also got to remember, you will age, someone may get injured, doing everything yourself isn’t always possible so it’s nice to have the options plus you have time to enjoy life and make your art when you are not doing the extremists way ✌🏻 keep up the great work! You are an inspiration to many

[@riversideacres8853]

I wanted to go off grid, but my son who is a lineman with an electric co-op saId it wasn't cost effective. He said the off grid system would last about 20 years and then it would have to be replaced and during that 20 years you would be trying to re-coup your capital outlay for the original syste, with no electric bills. He also said with the electric co-op he is with they have two families that are completely off grid and sell back the excess power generated, but their check is pennies each month. If I wanted as back up it would be fine. So, I pick and choose what I use the electric for i.e. no dryer, but I have one; cook on wood stove in winter, keeps skills intact for if power outages. I believe you can live in both worlds and enjoy the comforts each has to offer, for you and your family.

[@BelindaTN]

I agree Barb. That solar panel stuff is so expensive. And you have the expense of replacing all those batteries every few years. Batteries are not cheap. I find it cheaper to just be very frugal with the electricity from being on grid.

[@LorrayneHam]

I commend you both for making choices based on your needs and requirements! The humidity in the smokies can be brutal!!! This past summer spent 4 months in Franklin and the humidity and heat were a challenge. We just bought in South western VA and realized we just could not completely off grid. It was a fantasy but reality is exactly what you said, live as sustainably as possible as simply as possible but LIVE!!! Love all that you are doing!

[@JacindaH]

We bought an off grid place....it was an epic fail. Tons of solar...barely ran the small appliances and would not work for our tools. The water came from the creek. You could shower if it wasn't frozen...but heated it with a wood stove..which sucked in the summer. We are on the grid..now. I don't think people are completely honest about the sacrifices that come with being off grid..so God bless your honesty!!

[@AlternativeHomesteading]

I so appreciate your honesty and mentioning the humidity ruining personal belongings. Going on the grid with the knowledge of self sufficiency is the way to go having the best of both worlds. I recently moved to rural Kentucky from New Jersey and purchased 59 acres of land. When I moved here, it rained every day for 6 weeks. I was not able to unpack my belongings as a result and was even moved here in the rain. Most of my furniture is now covered in mold. My clothes have that moldy odor that is not easily removed with washing. I understand exactly what you achieved and also the need to be on grid to save what you worked so hard to acquire. Your honesty is a breath of fresh air and look forward to your videos. I also appreciate how psychically active and hard you work.. It is nice to have a partner to achieve the balance. Best of luck on the completion of your home. I have a lot of work ahead of me, preparing for winter. PS: I have a very hard time getting people to work here, provide quote and once here, actually complete the work.

[@theIAMofME]

As a southerner, I hope you will try this advice. I am not telling you it will correct something. But, it might. Borax (Mule Team) will help in the wash. You should be able to find it at your grocery store or Walmart. The next most valuable tool for smells like mold is Tea Tree Oil in the laundry. For a large load...at least 10 drops MORE depending on how much you have on hand. You may be able to save "some" things you have washing with these things. Hope it helps and sorry for your troubles moving south.

[@AlternativeHomesteading]

theIAMofME I love your ideas. Botox is amazing. I will try the tee tree in the wash. Thank you for the suggestions.

[@kevz2474]

It's ok to recognize you need help. Living on grid is fine. You're still isolated and away from a lot of the madness in the world. So you still win.

[@marjoriecarlson8125]

Thank you so much for sharing your decision making with us. Doing what's right for you and your family and your values is what is most important. I really appreciate the transparency and careful consideration you've shared with us. Personally I'm a single urban millennial, working full time, and trying to develop simple sustainable living in my context. While "proper" homesteading isn't a goal of mine, I so appreciate you and all the other homesteaders on KZbin who share the ups and downs of homesteading. You have been a source of education and inspiration for me and this video has reminded me that there isn't a way of living the "right" way. Being an urban "homesteader" often gives me this feeling of imposter syndrome, like I don't belong in this community because I love my job and while I would like a couple acres and chickens eventually, I don't ever want to be fully self sufficient. I appreciate community and I love supporting my community by purchasing their meat and milk and produce more than I would love raising and processing those things myself. So again, thank you ♥️

[@ironmikehallowween]

I was born in Southwestern Virginia, very deep in the holler. We had an outhouse, and no indoor plumbing. We had a stream for water that we eventually ran into a sink with a pipe and a drain pipe going back out. We had a kitchen wood stove for cooking and another wood stove for heat. No air conditioning or any such thing. We used oil lamps, of which I still have, for light sometimes, but even we had electric, when it worked that is! Many folks in that region, at that time, lived in a similar fashion. We hunted, fished, raised animals, and mostly lived off our land out of sheer necessity. We lived a life that people glamorize now. They certainly didn’t find our way of life glamorous then. When we could afford improvements, we made them. I love the memories created by that way of life, but I cannot imagine my children living that way. I am glad I lived it however, and try to show my children how to make it if they lose power, or the world turns sideways, and such. For some strange reason, people think living off grid is new. People think off grid is glamorous and exciting. Unfortunately, none of that is the case. You are mostly very hot, or very cold, and a little hungry. It’s good to understand the old ways in case you are forced to live under those conditions again, but hopefully, it’s only temporary, cause a hot shower is a very good thing! So, hook up to power for Pete’s sake, and continue to reach for a comfortable self sustaining lifestyle.

[@DeepSouthHomestead]

This is exactly why we are keeping our home even though we are building an off grid cabin.

[@christinaoklaohio7926]

I don’t care if on grid or off you guys rock I have learned a lot from you and I will stay and keep learning........what works for you works for me, to see you guys move forward. ❤️

[@sadier39]

You are right! It is your home and you can do whatever you want! Can't wait to see your dream home

[@patyarriaga3685]

Stay true to yourselves no one else matters! Do what makes you happy and the family happy!

[@AndyFletcherX31]

Going back on grid makes sense for you. Keeping the solar & generator as backup seems like a good choice too as I suspect you will get a lot of outages where you are. You did the off-grid thing for a while, got the damp tee shirt and everything else too :) I came to your channel as an off grid channel but will be staying around after you get connected up too :) Looking forward to your house build.

[@debbiecrouch709]

Oh my goodness I am so sad that people are worried if you have power or not. I have learned so much from you folks. Just keep doing what’s best for you

[@dwaynekendall]

Makes total sense, grid right there so use it. But keep your focus in the sustainable living that brought you there. I will definitely be watching how you pull it all together. Thanks for sharing.

[@larryfromlincolncountywa3989]

Well said, folks!! Its unfortunate that many urbanites confuse homesteading with survivalism. They are not mutually exclusive, but they are also not the same concepts. Thanks for the reminder that we can, indeed, live with a foot in both worlds. Smart, effective and efficient!

[@beccasbythebay]

My husband lived off grid for 20 years before I met him. It was rough here in texas well water & rain water only outdoor showers & outdoor cooking. We wanted a place where we could have a small homestead with 1-3 acres. It was hard to find with our budget. I was lucky enough to find a place in town with a large yard & small home. I have health issues & need to be near doctors & I had my 20 something year old adult kids I was helping to finish school etc. We found balance in having backyard chickens & fruit trees & a large garden. He does lawn services I have a shop on Etsy & we sell extra veggies & fruit & young trees from town. We get to enjoy a lot of things here. We talk about the trade offs to living further outside of town & keep coming back to we made the best decision for us & found balance where we are in town. If something is not working we are flexible to change it up to be more productive or more efficient. Love watching ya'll you both are very sensible.

[@debbieperry2120]

It is no joke living with high heat and high humidity. I am sure your choices are for the best things needed for your family. Just keep on sharing this wonderful journey. Blessings to you!

[@donnabrown1518]

I have lived off grid and I have lived on grid and I can tell you that living on grid is so much easier most of the time. I think you have a great plan they say you should have three sources of anything. Power, food, and water, it appears that you now have power covered!

[@joetrudeau9033]

No explanation needed! At least you have a good reliable back up in place!

[@sovereigns1grace]

You do what you gotta do! 100% get your perspective. You need your house built. If that means on grid for now ... So be it. You will always have the option to go off grid when you're ready. The future may bring other HVAC options. You never know, right? Love you guys. ❤

[@richeastmain4031]

When I saw the power available to you a few videos ago I thought that your system and on-grid combined is the way to go. You have plenty of solar to offset most of your usage plus an awesome backup system. It makes sense.

[@user-rq8lo2bd2s]

Finally!! Sensibility coupled with sustainability!! I am impressed with your direction and example. Thank you for leading the way for many of us!

[@donnamoore1490]

Don't let anybody shame you. You live your way. I live in florida and my father in law no matter how freaking hot it got left the house open all day. Then closed at night and ran the ac. It kept things from getting molding. And it was good

[@wolffortenberry33]

Thank you for being so open and honest! I really enjoy your videos :) Very sensible, logical, and down to earth. You guys are awesome!!

[@whoobonhooaglo]

Proud of you guys!! Thank you for always opening up and sharing a part of your lives~

[@BrilliantLove2]

You do what you need to do to get things done, no judgements, I think it’s so cool that you have options! You have taught us so much, still do 😊💜

[@SHADOW-xw6lq]

Very wise. I do find it "funny" that some off grid KZbin channels will have their wives cooking on wood and hand washing their clothes, but the husbands sure have a lot of power tools and tractors! You're setting up for the best of both worlds. Love your channel.

[@jaredcolahan759]

Finally ! You are the first I hear that admit there is a middle ground even though most live it . I agree it all boils down to the most economical method for your situation. very good. BTW love the vids.

[@runningrabbit07]

I've seen what humidity can do to a house with no HVAC in central Virginia. You made the right choice! Thanks for your time and knowledge. I've been following you guys for almost a year now and I've definitely learned a thing or two.

[@whitehouseonthehill]

Totally makes sense... you guys are doing a great job on the new place!

[@lgbenauer7075]

You know, you are doing an amazing job living your dreams. Your video this time sounded like you were trying to apologize or convince yourselves. You don't need to apologize! You are incredible and hard working with common sense. Rare indeed in a world full of people who feel everything should be given to them. Love you guys.

[@sammiewatson6957]

I love your channel, whether your on grid or off, that has no bearing on why I watch y'all =) as long as your happy that's all that matters

[@kimbermoss]

You two are just awesome! I hope you two take a moment and just appreciate each other for the tenacity to make your dreams come to realization. Not everyone can just go build their own house! And the fact that you both research and experiment and are willing to TRY! Many people talk about ideas but never see them to fruition. Here you are ‘dirt deep’ into it. Grid or no, you do what’s best for you! My hats off to you! 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼

[@TeamBinBerlin]

Both my wife and I love the off grid aspects and watching other people who are able to peruse it. What this video suggests is common sense. You are creating a house that can do both. You are conveying your intent to be both on-grid and off-grid which is great. That's smart if it is available ... Honesty is wonderful and we respect that as I think others in the channel will do. You told the channel upfront instead of waiting several month as some other channels have done. ( which I unsubscribed from ) ... With all that said, you two are a great inspiration to my wife and I and keep us focused on the day that we too will be able to leave the apartment and drive to a place in the country to call our home. Keep it up!

[@essemsween818]

Now that you've lived in your area through an entire year by which I mean a full Winter (even though it's 2) and Summers you have had the chance to feel the effects of what those Seasons feel like. You shouldn't have to make excuses for ANY decisions that you make. Having grid capability will make your girls a whole lot happier, no doubt about that one. Lol. Jeremy will be able to work at his computer for as long as he likes whenever he likes, not just when he has enough battery life because you've had 10 cloudy days in a row plus a freak Snow storm that stopped you from getting out to buy generator juice. Just because you CAN connect to the grid doesn't stop you from utilising the Solar you put in, nor does it mean you're suddenly going to be sat in front of the TV 24/7. It does mean that once you get your gardens into full production you can store your harvest safely, and can be comfortable canning quarts of tomatoes and dehydrating peppers at 22:00 instead of being worn out to the point of collapse from fighting the humidity of high summer while you tended to and picked that crop. You're going to half kill yourselves building this house, you make it as comfortable and as efficient as you want bearing in mind you intend to live here forever. If other people don't like it? Sod 'em, they don't have to live in it.

[@Guildbrookfarm]

It’s been two years. This is our third winter. Time flies!

[@essemsween818]

@@Guildbrookfarm ... When you're having fun? MUAHAHA Thinking back to the frozen pipes and the no water sagas then the mammoth tree felling project? Still firewood for the next 5 years ain't nothin' to sneeze at. So much of the horror stages of building a house, much like building a life or a marriage are lift, haul, put down, rinse & repeat. Pure torture and torment at the time. You need the break of at least a decade before you can laugh about the hard times, but you're laughing with your feet up in front of the hearth in the beautiful cabin that you struggled through daily, rinsing & repeating. I fully believe you'll get there because you never, ever give up.💕

[@craigleemehan]

I am enjoying and learning from your adventure. You are trying things out and seeing what works and what doesn't. I don't know anyone who would move from an upper middle class neighborhood and live in a trailer in the middle of no where. Please keep the videos coming.

[@nancysadewater964]

Thank you for the explanation even though it was not needed. Living in the trailer that was already set up on the property is a different thing than building your home to retire in. I hope you use the best options available to you and your family.

[@robertschroeder1978]

Thank you for being real and transparent. I believe in balance and having electric utility available if needed is prudent and using wisdom. Have enjoyed watching your progress on the home build. Blessings to you all, Rob S. (Rockford MI)

[@monicaortez272]

I am sorry off grid would not work. You guys are still superhero's in my book!!! Love you, don't let the haters get you down. You guys really are an inspiration!!!

[@Guildbrookfarm]

It does work, but we don’t HAVE to so... 🤷🏻‍♂️

[@glenncountry]

Yes go back on grid. The positive side is you also have off grid capabilities if the need arisis.

[@Guildbrookfarm]

Exactly. 👍🏻

[@laineybugger]

Guildbrook Farm - Off Grid Living that’s perfect compromise

[@brow276]

Your practical way of assessing what you need to do is breathtaking. Extremism isn’t for everyone.

[@julialovullo8619]

J B love how you put that

[@LittleMountainLife]

Reconnecting to the grid just makes a lot of sense in your situation. Thanks for sharing.

[@angelsarver8307]

Thank you for saying what most of us are thinking. I grew up in the city and now live in the PA mountains. I've learned to grow most of my own food, can those foods, etc. I am excited to start to expand my prepper panty. However, I have no desire to live without electricity. It's nice to know I have a reasonable place I can turn to learn new skills without being told I'm not committed enough.

[@AJJohnson_86]

No such thing as committed enough. Whatever you choose to do is what you choose to do. Your only commitment should be to you amd your families health and safety. Period.

[@simplylivingprepared]

Love your honesty. You do you - there are so many different versions of what living a sustainable life really means. There is no one definition that fits all. That's why I follow your channel - you're both REAL.

[@farminggranny8269]

Good for you! We will keep watching.

[@mxer7277]

That's what it's all about. Being prepared. If our power goes out and I'm not home, my wife goes downstairs and flips on the inverter, and presto, the lights come back on. People don't realize how much trouble humidity can cause. Stay safe. Peace.

[@lifeinthecountrysidehome]

I think you are making a great choice because you will have two great systems to work with and in the meanwhile, you can upgrade your solar system if you feel the need. Good luck with the building of your new home.

[@marklownox]

It’s your decision to make. Do what’s best for your family. You don’t owe anyone an explanation! Good luck with your build. I enjoy your videos.

[@Souixno]

Jeremy and Jaime💜HUGS💜 After 3 years of renovating and having "temporary power, we are estatic to receive our electrical inspection certificate that allows us to live in our home. We have started moving and hopefully will be in our home full time by December 1st. I wish you all the best and minimal setbacks. Hiring contractors is a pain, getting them to actually show up is a miracle. Be blessed, love you💜

[@essemsween818]

Congratulations Kitty. You're going to have a LOT to be Thankful for this Thanksgiving. Good Luck on the move and Best Wishes for the first of what I hope will be many, many Happy Christmases in your new home, from Sharon in Nottingham (the one in the UK)

[@jstaffordii]

The hybrid system you are planning is your best option for your location with utility available but at risk during weather events.

[@candidethirtythree4324]

We live most of the year in a swamp in Louisiana and we had a natural gas generator that we just had to flip a switch when the electricity went out and with frequent hurricanes, that was more often than we would like but you are so right about back up.

[@melaniemcintosh162]

Hey I just wanted to say that y'all are a huge inspiration to me, so please ignore the negative comments. You guys are great and have taught me many things. Thank you and please keep the videos coming.

[@MrBubbahunt9]

I appreciate your time in making this video..but I hate that you have to explain in detail everything you choose to do and still seem to get crap in the comments....thanks for the post..

[@1gr8lpta]

I say, you do you and I’ll do me. And the heck with the finger pointers. People get a grip. They never said it’s this way or nothing. People grow. People learn. Why sweat it over these petty criticisms. This is a great channel. There are plenty of others on you tube. Learn or go somewhere else and peck.

[@jeanlee1911]

What ever helps you achieve what you need. thank you. I watch yall to learn new skills. I live in an overpriced tiny apartment in a medium city in California, single mom , bad credit(...) and 3 kids. someday i would love to live on a few acres and a small trailer ( my 2 youngest are going to college next year and my oldest has Autism and will be with me for a long time. thank you for telling it like it is and showing us that to reality of homesteading is what ever you need it to be and to do what you can. all i want is some chickens and a garden for canning and a safe place for when the power goes out i can cook and live. xoxoxox from California..

[@annie-k5213]

Good for you! doing what you need to do. I live in humid area too and I totally get it. I love watching you guys, and one of those reasons is for your logic and common sense.

[@sparky619841]

The best of both worlds with your power. Great idea!

[@dawnstraughen755]

You have to work for what's best for you and your family. We are working towards self sufficiency but trying to still be comfortable. Good for you.