Venison Poutine at the Off Grid Log Cabin, The Simple Life

#logcabin #cooking #forest
Simplifying life at the log cabin in the spring, I spend the week cutting down dead trees and ripping them into boards, fuelled by calorie rich meals of venison poutine for dinner and venison skillet breakfast.
To see what I’m up to during the rest of the week, please follow me on my other online channels;
Website: myselfreliance.com/
Facebook - / myselfreliance
Instagram - / myselfreliance
My Mailing Address:
P.O. Box 20042
Barrie, Ontario
L4M 6E9
Canada

[@johnrollins4879]

Really enjoying all the videos! I've been keeping up with the cabin build since the beginning and I'm looking forward to what's to come! I just want to encourage all other viewers to like, share and definitely subscribe! You won't be disappointed!

[@whollymary7406]

Hey John we seen this last video like a redundant commercial can you cut us some slack please?

[@MrNightworker5]

YES Very Nice....He is a very sympathetic person.....and he has a lot to know.....Bic respect

[@rajangupte9170]

I have seen all your episodes just lovely

[@patrickhays8867]

PATRICK HAYS HERE IN LEWISTON , IDAHO, I ANAN REALY ENJOY YOUR VIDEOS … LOOKS TO ME LIKE YOU HAVE A REAL NICE PLACE THERE .AND I THANK YOU FOR TAKEN THE TIME TO MAKE THEM ,,

[@Woodscribed]

its true

[@JacobNoelz]

I love that you took the time to edit the sound levels for the chainsaw. What a guy. Keep it up.

[@MySelfReliance]

Thanks for watching! I think the next few days may be warm enough to melt the snow and drive the frost out of the ground so I can get started on the outdoor kitchen. I can't wait, I'm excited about that project. It's another rainy day today so I think I'll film a few short Q&A videos instead of working on the cabin. If you have any questions that you want me to answer in an upcoming video, please post them under this comment so I don't miss them. Have a great weekend!

[@triestelondon]

How much does the need to produce "content" regularly, for us your viewers, add to your stress levels?

[@villipoto1640]

What type of concerns if any go through the head of a person as wise as yourself..what does Shawn James worry about the most in today's world.

[@michelezolezzi5114]

A. Belated happy birthday. B. Love this show. Enjoyed watching you in the cold weather (envious, in fact) while I sweltered in Western Australia. LOL.

[@michelezolezzi5114]

Oh, where do you bath/shower?

[@yellowboy1866]

Hi Shawn, you have overcome some very hard lessons, which i think you have managed very well, but you still seem unsure. I think you should pat yourself on the back and just get on with your projects. Also you seem to be apologizing for being successful and for using modern equipment in the build. You seem strong in character so i would suggest if you don't mind. Use any tools you want, don't need to explain. We each have to find our own way in this life and to learn our own lessons, your success shows us all that it is possible to win. I would just like to know what else you propose to build.

[@locksbog4270]

Shawn, you should be the gold standard for man kind in this era!!! Your very inspiring and promote a lot of self worth. I hope more people start watching this channel. 👍👍👍😃

[@skygerspacher6891]

One of my favorite moments, while watching Dick Proenneke, was when he picked up a gnarly chunk of firewood and said he was going to make a ladle to scoop out his homemade berry sauce onto his pancakes. Then, moments later he had a blasted lovely wooden ladle. I love that. The idea that you, by yourself, can cut down dead trees and then a short time later have a beautiful slab of wood you can put to use as stairs.....great stuff. I love that.

[@amessad]

Happy birthday my friend!... all the best to you and your family!... you are the reason I decided to change my life about six months ago... more specifically I decided to spend my money differently and get a small house in the woods instead of buying an expensive car.... always looking forward for more videos!... thank you.

[@TaraWoodruff2014]

Nice!!

[@aussiepete2180]

Hi shawn being a city dweller, your videos makes me wish i had the experiences ofgrowing up in the bush ,doesn't matter to me how long your video's, i always enjoy the scenery .

[@glenjamindle]

You are the Bob Ross of the outdoors

[@jamesbockenstette4332]

Thank you for the posting. Cali's behavior demands my attention. She is very engaging and so charming. She can easily make you smile. I enjoy hearing your perspective.

[@newfanerelichuntersgr4906]

Watching your videos is like taking a tranquil break. The scenery is mesmerising, and the content is interesting. Thanks for sharing. God Bless, Greg

[@rowdybroomstick1216]

Thank you for talking about anxiety this is a general disorder in my life and appreciate the fact that it's recognized, I try to fish from my boat on weekends and get out in the sun and I feel it helps, I will try to get out and take that walk I think your right it helps to simplify as much as you can , thank you for this talk & video your content is very enjoyable, no response needed 👍

[@santii9305]

It was nice to see your self reflections at the beggining

[@dmtb1857]

Appreciated your words in the intro

[@robertocruzado3780]

Amar esmrimavera capitulation 55

[@RiverbendlongbowsOutdoors]

Don't feel guilty about soaking up some sunshine. I shut my phone off yesterday and just sat in a chair in the sun all day. It was great

[@brendajohnson6910]

Killer recipe my husband and son would love. Will try to replicate!! And don't worry about the length of your videos, you always provide a nugget of insight and knowledge I take away.

[@grahamball364]

Hi Shawn , just like to say thank you for letting us into your life off the grid ,it’s something that I hold dear to my Heart ,it’s making and having chill out time ,working for the health care group we all need timeout and seeing your videos are an excellent way to see wilderness,see you all the best Graham.

[@mvanvelsen]

Thanks for the videos, it is a weekly highlight in my subscription list. Take care and greetings from Amsterdam

[@davyjones232]

Love your cooking with the captions of ingredients .

[@samuelluria4744]

Love your Locker... ⚓🐙🍻🏝💰☠

[@PASTORJUANCORDOVA]

Wow . I have become addicted to your program. As a child in the Dominican Republic I m reliving my time in the country with my grandmother . Thanks . Psalm 19.

[@marjoriejohnson1832]

I am a 90 year old woman. I enjoy your videos.didnt live in log cabin but live the rest of it. It brings me great pleasure to watch them noticed a few wifely things like curtains under sink. Love it

[@erikjanssen6267]

Thanks for the video. I appreciated that you reduced the sound levels on the chainsaw. That was a smart little detail.

[@brianschroeder6106]

Happy birthday Shawn. Thank you for sharing this part of your life with us. You are an inspiration and Cali is just beautiful.

[@birdcanoe3084]

Yes more videos please!

[@noregrets7469]

I can honestly say that I haven’t come across one single video of yours that has disappointed or bored me . Thank you🙃

[@barbarahogan4796]

The water is so clear. Good advice for sure. 👍👍👍👍👍 That food looked good.👍👍👍👍👍

[@paulward4717]

Been watching since you first started the cabin. I have 3 years to retire, then this looks like the life for me. Your videos are inspirational!

[@willysweldfab]

Nothing in your methodical, relaxed, focused oriented nature could disappoint me. Keep sharing your wares and ways of the cabin life. I'll be buying a parcel of land and soon be living nearly the same way. Paul Charles Mpls, MN

[@myfamilymatters]

My husband and I truly appreciate the effort and long hours you spend, making your videos for us. We find that the atmosphere you create and the stories you tell are very therapeutic. Thank you so much.

[@blissbliss3531]

Love that happy Cali ~ what a face !!! Nature is my home.....I agree so much Shawn!

[@rudyo8409]

Thank's Shawn" Them meals you cooked up, sure did look tasty ! lol. You have a great week as well.

[@patdunne3277]

Hi Shawn your videos allways puts me in a good place. Thank you

[@tonybrodd2135]

Happy Birthday ! and many thanks from Sweden ! 🎂☕🍀🍏 I Love watching your Channel 👍 Thank you Shawn !!!

[@briankshaw8755]

Very well said. Life's too short. Keep up with your health. I share a 60 acre farm, few crops, big ponds, hard woods, cedar. Nothing like being in the woods. Be safe.

[@eddietafoya4105]

Right on brother! Glad you’re doing well. Getting closer to my dream all the time. Thank you for your message and inspiration.

[@susanbrown2909]

It’s good you mention mental health problems..many people look fine, on the outside ,but fight anxiety every day,along with stress. Being in a beautiful place certainly does help ..calm people down. It’s lovely sharing your time in the forest with you and your wife,and sweet Cali. My daughters dog called Cali,it always reminds me of your Cali,Too. She’s a yellow lab. But thanks Shawn ,keep up the good work.

[@chuckratcliff]

With someone who has experienced GAD order for the better part of my adult life, I want to tell you how much your videos have helped me. your reflections are as wondrous as the skilled cabin life. Thank you and your family for taking time to document and share.

[@villipoto1640]

You sir are a very brilliant person. You think of and bring to light a lot of issues that can bring a person down and impact society in a negative way without even realizing. Watching your videos for me anyway cause a lot of ah ha moments and you are spot on with fixes to make life a lot more enjoyable and inspire a much more positive outlook on life in general. When i first started watching it was to see what you built next. Now its more so about the reflections. The building/cooking and the beautiful Cali are bonuses. Dont mean to sound like a broken record but thank you Shawn very much for all that you do and for your vast knowledge.

[@MySelfReliance]

Chipper Jeroue Thank you!

[@janeheichel2014]

Don't know much about tools but am trying to learn since I'm by my self a lot of the things in my house I have to figure out but watching you makes me feel I could do just about anything. I'm getting back to cooking with cast iron your meal of frys looked yummy. Thanks for sharing your experiences

[@jopiejoy]

Your cabin has became rather full, maybe its time for a small barn?

[@edowlut2004]

None of your videos ever disappoint they are always interesting and it is lovely for about 30 minutes to be out in the woods with the beautiful scenery that you have

[@Pixxelshim]

The annual melt of a frozen lake is a glorious event, the promise of new adventures to come. Thanks for sharing.

[@berzerker17487]

I'm really enjoying the more frequent videos Shawn, thanks for taking the extra time to make them and for including all the beautiful scenery shots!

[@sharonkeller7397]

I hope you had a very Happy Birthday! I enjoyed all the beautiful Spring scenery in this one and the cute squirrel at the end! How could I not mention Cali!! She is just so cute, and I love to watch her! She is so expressive lol. :)

[@graciegolden2290]

In christ for me and so grateful for all you share regarding simple living off the land. So blessed you all are. Your Cali, once my Gracie. Grateful and thank you for offering recipes along the way.

[@winmang]

My serelf reliance at 87 is strengthened by watching you and Cali !

[@karengee7504]

The splashing noise in background is Cali nice. What no cookbook yet come on. Enjoy the videos that you both make and I have identical dog male. Keep these videos coming they are awesome.

[@jasonmccann4341]

Great stuff Shawn, you need a break from the grind. Good grub, good weather and good company. Who could ask for more.

[@donzie13]

The quiet life. Many of us could benefit from it. Find US maybe. In this busy and hectic world so many get lost. Nature is a way to find our core if that makes sense. Thank you for the videos. It helps me to center myself.

[@cstar6682]

Your reasoning resonates with me and I find myself making subtle changes like turning off the tv and lights and taking more walks and cooking from scratch. It is healthier, calmer and satisfying. Thank you!

[@renefauteux9521]

Hummm poutine Quebec best recipes 👍👍

[@madsquidman6570]

Thanks Shawn. I really find great satisfaction using hand tools for certain projects. They might be slower than power tools, but can be more precise (hand planes etc.) It does feel good to simplify. Having said that though I wouldn't cut my firewood by hand, horses for courses. AND....you always make me hungry man! Good work. Most Aussies probably have no idea what Poutine is, but now winter's approaching I think I'm going to make some (and then go for a hike!) Thanks again mate.

[@Tsiri09]

Living in an off-grid cabin looks so peaceful. Thank you so much for taking us all along from the beginning- we all know now that to get to that point, it's a LOT of hard physical work.

[@raffaellavitiello1762]

Another wonderful video, we do not mind how long it is , we need our fix every week. haha, thank you, love watching that enreal Dog of yours, love her so much, Take care all of you

[@RedWolf17]

Exceptional videography Shawn. The final shot is heavenly. Looking forward to your outdoor kitchen.🍀🌿🐾

[@ajvasta]

Everything you do always seems to come out so perfect. I would love to see a blooper reel to show that sometimes things don't always go as planned.

[@rosaliekiff1132]

I love all your cooking videos, I am starting to cook like you, its so more relaxing. Keep up all you do. I really like your videos keep them coming. I enjoy what ever you film, the good the bad and the agly . Thanks so much. God Bless and keep you safe .....

[@hopeepoh6638]

I love your videos. After my dad died last year I thought I lost all his knowledge, but watching you makes me remember, and continue learning (I'm a woman in my early thirties, much like your daughters). I prefer the chats at the end, though. It takes me time to wind down from the anxieties of life and understand your perspective and watching you work quietly lets me get to that point. Just my personal perspective, though, I'll watch it regardless. Thank you for giving my dad back to me.

[@MySelfReliance]

That's very nice to hear. :). Except for one thing - I'm only 48 and my daughters are late teens. 😀

[@hopeepoh6638]

I didn't mean to infer you were older :) just that my dad was your age when I was in my late teens, and though I was too cosmo to care at that point, now I look back and value every little lesson. Teach your daughters well because we'll remember forever.

[@thingsretiredpeopledo3060]

My husband and I discovered your channel last fall - watched the time-lapse cabin-build and we were hooked! We love your videos and look forward to each and every one of them. I grew up in Haliburton township but was relocated to Toronto so I'm living the cabin life vicariously through you, lol! Keep up the good work, Shawn! Oh and Happy Birthday - all the best!

[@Mahalalel3]

I like the idea of having and using a chain saw mill. I don't know what kind of oil you use for frying other than the butter but just in case you don't know any supermarket oils like canola, corn & soybean will put one on track for clogged arteries. Saturated fats like tallow, lard & coconut are good for the body, and virgin olive oil for eating without allot of heat. We were told, actually brainwashed into thinking saturated fats were bad for us and polyunsaturated oils was the way to go. My Grandparents and great Grandparents did just fine on saturated fats. I buy pork belly and render it for the lard for cooking and have a nice treat that keeps hunger away. The older I get the following statement becomes more relevant: Everything "they" ever told me is a Lie.

[@snowiejames]

I find your thoughts and your ability to express your ideas to be thought provoking. We could all benefit from making time for reflection, to step back and to appreciate life a little more. You are positively inspirational.

[@arose4955]

awesome looking meals, I would eat them! I cook for a living simple is so easy and your a simple man. Me and my hubby have been married 35 years. Simple makes everything good.

[@kevinmack7167]

I think you should do more videos than once a week because I like watching your videos and I think you are amazing at what you do and I never get notifications when you have posted a video.

[@kirkw1740]

Great video as always Shawn! Cali's been a great addition I've got to say. And happy belated birthday! Hope it was a good one.

[@Sh1zn3t]

You are such an inspiration. This is how I want to live my life. I love your videos, Shawn, and I'll keep watching them everytime you post them! Thank you for this!

[@ivi122]

Your cabin I can’t say this enough it is so amazing, so cozy, so rustic, and watching you cook is super relaxing

[@mandihernandez5883]

One day I just want to surround myself with nature....

[@fynbo1007]

Thank you for sharing your words with us, thanks for sharing your story. God bless you and your family

[@bobarnall3913]

It is just amazing to me how much I can relax during your videos. Thanks

[@edsummers6869]

Nice to see winter turning into spring....the beauty doesn't change, it's just different. Always look forward to a new adventure. Stay safe and in great health. Love your family, Cali!!

[@willk5413]

That made me hungry lol

[@tommygunz8692]

Another well put together video....love watching that Alaskan saw mill work...dog being good as usual....that meal you cooked looked unbelievable...made me hungry....happy belated b-day...take a break and chill....T.Gunz

[@johncconnolly1]

Shawn, I have not commented yet, but I have been religiously watching your videos since the beginning. I am clearly a city boy (St. Louis, MO), and probably won't change that, but that said, I am completely taken with and impressed by your work ethic, your skills, your outlook on life, which includes simplicity, gratitude, and taking time to live in the moment. Those things transcend anything else, meaning that a guy up in Ontario can certainly inspire a guy down in St. Louis. Kudos to you (and your wife and Cali), and know that you have an avid subscriber here, and will continue to be.

[@bobchauncey63]

A simpler life is much needed in today's lifestyle. Thanks Shawn for your insight. You have a multitude of talents and you put them to good use buddy.

[@mandihernandez5883]

Your dog is cuteness!! Cabin is beautiful💛

[@PutyoraJanos]

Everytime after i watch your videos, i'm jealous and hungry! :) Cheers from Hungary! ;)

[@johnfleming68]

Not only are you a great cabin builder and Carpenter you're also a good chef I'm watching you make those delicious meals really makes my mouth water thank you Shawn God bless

[@ericlinsell6941]

Fantastic scenery, and dog, love all your videos, and would love to have your cabin, thank you for allowing me into your life style, much appreciated.

[@buddyvibe9043]

bears are out now, wolves are around im sure, keep an eye on Callie.. she is a great friend and companion

[@joanneforrest1830]

Loved the video, the cabin is looking wonderful. Is there any chance you would be able to include in one of your upcoming videos a “pan round” shot of the whole cabin inside. We do get to see small parts but you have added so much more internally recently it would be great to see it all together. Thanks in advance.

[@carleantodd3138]

It's good to know you like to take a minute and soak up some sun and nature, you work hard and do a fantastic job at it. I love it when you don't finish a project in one video because I look forward to next up and coming in the future. Beautiful wife and dog, if anyone was to live off grid then you're a perfect family. Sending love to you all from FL USA ( born in England) 😎😎

[@darreldugan1917]

Shawn, your videos of whatever content are never a waste of time! I’ve enjoyed every one of them and I’m sure many will agree! I appreciate that you let us in on a part of this life, whether it’s big or small my friend! Thank you so much. Keep it real and roll film!

[@PhillyFan344]

Really appreciate you lowering the volume for chainsaw! Awesome video once again

[@peabennett6939]

Good job on balancing the chainsaw volume!

[@donkarstedt1637]

Just like I have the ability to turn down the volume so do you!!! Now I have to turn it up the to have the full effect, along with the candle I burn that smells presently of burning 2 stroke oil. ✌

[@jackofallspades1246]

A great way to start my day. Enjoy your down time as much as you can. I often have to make myself sit down and relax while I'm out in the bush. There's always more to do and it'll be there waiting for you when you're ready.

[@thomasarussellsr]

The poutine looked absolutely delicious 😋. Love the transformation of oiling wood. Protects the wood from drying too quickly and looms beautiful to boot. Another great video, thanks for sharing.

[@dougLinker]

You make milling that Ash look quick and easy -my experience is not the same and dream of a day I can do that with a big pine haha -nice to see you made a new friend at the end too :)

[@July4.1776]

Doug Outside - more Doug videos please!

[@bushcraftnorthof6012]

Another great one! That poutine looked awesome. Maybe I'll try grouse or ptarmigan poutine! Keep them coming. Helps me get through doing dishes. Take care.

[@Hucfinn-zz8dl]

I really love to watch your video's without the talking while your working ! Gives the rest of us a chance to hear & enjoy the sounds of the forest !

[@bushcraftdan6969]

never boring or Dissapointment I have learned so much from watching the cabin build since day one and looking forward to more thanks again Mr Sean James and Happy Birthday,

[@fredbarkow108]

Happy birthday Shawn

[@SurvivalLilly]

really nice saw mill adapter you have there! cool video as always

[@robertocruzado3780]

Oration de la noche

[@robertocruzado3780]

Oracion de las night

[@robertocruzado3780]

Amar Es primavera

[@nickpalma2782]

Great idea to start the video with your monologue,your channel is so much deeper than some casual viewers may realize. Thanks as always.

[@jphanks]

I so look forward to your Fridays! Thank you for taking the time to share not just the cabin but your family and view of what a simple life can be.

[@PaladinPierce]

Your killing me with my own OCD... Please get the chinking done on the cabin for the love of it all! lol Stay strong and safe to all of you there.

[@suzisaintjames]

Randolph Mitchell, it's still cold for him to gather the clay, moss and other materials he needs. 👍 sending lots of love 💜 to y'all from sunny 🌞 Arizona 🌵, 95/71f today.

[@ieldepiel]

Nice one again shawn, and what a professiolism to shut the audio when the chainsaw comes in action!

[@roaringlion4898]

ieldepiel Agreed, that kind of thought makes these videos better than all the others out there. Cheers from NZ

[@howardfortyfive9676]

WHAT?!? I LOVE the scream of a wound out saw. Ya know Shawn it's possible to take blissfully quiet extremes too far ya know.

[@wandaarganbright4056]

No, it's not.

[@igitahimsa5871]

@@wandaarganbright4056 The detailed thoughtfulness that shows by editing the chainsaw volume is one of the many attributes that makes this channel so peaceful for me. That and watching a quiet, happy man carry on his excellent work in a knowledgeable and focussed way. Something about loud motors running just shatters the whole vibe for me, but not the way Shawn does it in his videos. I used to live in a beautiful place, where all one could hear was the wind in the trees and the birds. Then for awhile every single weekend some weekend warrior would get out running a chainsaw on, and on, and on. Ruined it totally. So now I really appreciate the lack of that disruptive noise..

[@Frankincensedjb123]

@@howardfortyfive9676 agreed

[@wendy1730]

Not a single video you put out is disappointing Shawn. It was wonderful as usual!

[@daleshepherd7737]

I never think of your talks as rambling...I enjoy it while also learning things.

[@rowdybroomstick1216]

I've got to go to work, I'll be back later and finish watching, not sure if you monitor your stats but wanted you know.

[@Sailor376also]

Using a chainsaw mill. I am whizbang at hand sharpening my chainsaw, after a few thousand sharpenings,, it just kinda happens. But there are different ways to sharpen. As with a crosscut hand saw, the teeth are sharpened in a knife like to cut across the grain,, and a ripsaw has chisel like teeth to ,,again,, they cut across the grain. Chainsaw teeth are primarily sharpened for crosscut, that leading point acts like a knife. To sharpen for a mill,, no normal chain is really good for ripping (saw dust and no chips) but a tooth that is squared up to the chain direction works better. Square tooth and shorter raker,,, useless for crosscuts,,, works better for rips. Oregon and others also sell a rip chain. I think the more important modern machine you use routinely, is the cast iron of your stove. And,, absolutely understandable. Use what is good and best. I own too much stuff,,, kinda like a 100 pound anchor for a 9 foot row boat.

[@MrKongsMom]

Thank you for the reminder to slow down and simplify. Such an important reminder.

[@seansysig]

Well said, the quiet lowers anxiety & stress. We walk into the woods and sit for an hour very still and listen to leaves rustling from the wind, rabbits, woodcock, grouse, and deer.