The Truth About Living Off Grid: 5 Years In The Desert

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  • čas přidán 1. 07. 2024
  • We've now been living off the grid in Arizona for about 5 years. We take a look at what we've done to survive here including our successes, hardships, and lessons learned.
    Thank you for watching! Come back for new videos every week.
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Komentáře • 237

  • @ourselfreliantlife
    @ourselfreliantlife  Před rokem +43

    Celebrating 5 years off-grid!🎉 What's been your favorite project we've done?

    • @TJames-we2md
      @TJames-we2md Před rokem

      Do you guy's grow your own food or Walmart?

    • @LilmissJ111
      @LilmissJ111 Před rokem +5

      My favorite project you both have done is your journey together as you both grow and love each other! ❤❤. Everything else is just stuff to me!❤❤

    • @arnoldarvizu
      @arnoldarvizu Před rokem +2

      I really like how you generate your own power. I’ve always wanted to learn how but not sure how that would work since we’re on the local power grid.
      I also like how you gather so much rain water. Great job

    • @kar702
      @kar702 Před rokem +3

      Water catchment ❤️

    • @catzcradle
      @catzcradle Před rokem +2

      I started watching your channel when you were on the 17th course of the house. Everything since then has been eye opening, inspiring, and makes me feel anything is possible. Congratulations to both of you. Hoping to come out to my property in the McNeal area this fall to get to know my land.🙏 Equally scared as I am excited. Unfortunately I don't have RU4 zoning, but I am in RU2 and will do what I have to as minimally as possible 😉

  • @arnoldarvizu
    @arnoldarvizu Před rokem +19

    Jess and Jim, you guys have gone through so much and you have tackled it head on. Great job to both of you. I feel all your projects are my favorite because you put your heart and hard work into all of them. Amazing how much rain water you capture. Jess, glad you’re feeling better and Jim, you took the bull by the horns and stepped it up when your partner wasn’t feeling well. Glad you have Peter to help out. Hope your pups are doing good. Your earth-bag home is looking terrific. You’ve come a long ways. Keep up the good work you two. Blessings to all of you and your pups. Can’t wait for your new video.

  • @13MoonsOverMayhem
    @13MoonsOverMayhem Před rokem +3

    You also rebuilt your solar array and rescued a second dog.
    Congratulations on five years! I can’t wait to hear your new plans for the rest of the house.

  • @coyotech55
    @coyotech55 Před rokem +8

    You both can be proud that with all the ups and downs, you keep making real progress. Never surrender. Sometimes I take a progress inventory like this and remember how it was a year or two or three ago - what all I've gotten done in spite of the problems that have come up. It really does perk you up. Whether you go faster or slower than you originally expected, if you haven't quit and you're still working on it, you have a right to be proud of it all.

  • @KandMe1
    @KandMe1 Před rokem +5

    Great to hear what you said about the cave in tragedy causing the rethink and replan and sounds like it lead to a whole new approach and new build plan also. It is amazing how that situation can create an even better outcome in the end. Thanks for the post inspiring watching it all emeerge.

  • @loridyson569
    @loridyson569 Před rokem +3

    Thank you for filling us in on all the work that you have done on your place. We live up in North Eastern AZ on 10 acres. We understand how hard it is when one of you has health problems. I have had 2 heart attacks with 2 stents in 2 years & it has slowed me down & scares him. Keep up the good work & give a big thumbs up to your brother for helping out.

  • @brigettekillion7994
    @brigettekillion7994 Před rokem +5

    Great update! I know how building your own home/homestead can feel like you're not getting much done, but then when you go back to recap, you realize that you've done a ton of work. I love watching your videos and seeing the ebb and flow of energy around different projects. Very excited to see what you're working on in this next year. Wishing you lots of success, health and happiness!!

  • @MQ-cw9qx
    @MQ-cw9qx Před rokem +5

    It is absolutely amazing what you have accomplished. Especially through some of the harsh life events. Each of you lost a parent...that is so very hard. But you have persevered through good times and bad, good health and bad, also. My hat is off to you both. keep on keepin' on, kids. you are doing great.

  • @bondpaz
    @bondpaz Před rokem +5

    I can’t believe we have all been doing this for 5 years! It’s been totally worth it! I’ve loved every minute! So many great times to come. ❤❤❤ Yall are doing a great job!

  • @lanec5672
    @lanec5672 Před rokem +4

    Hi guys...
    Thanks for the re-cap video!
    I can appreciate Jessica's personal issues -- nobody likes working through pain. Such issues, following such devastating, demoralizing set-backs & personal loss would be enough to grind even the toughest of working gears to a temporary halt. What you're attempting to do isn't unlike what the earlier pioneers did, but with the added advantage of time, modern technology & information. The original pioneers didn't have the 'luxury' of being able to take a break & work through things -- they kept their noses to the grind stones & pushed on, because to them it was an absolute matter of life & death survival. You guys have remained busy with several different 'necessary' projects & I applaud you for your efforts!
    As you know, I've taken a bit of an issue with the order of your projects, wondering how it is you could afford to prioritize them in such a manner. To me, the most obvious priority would have been to complete & protect the outside of the existing dome asap, especially after watching/seeing what 'mother nature' did to what you had worked so hard to build upon for the 2nd dome. My opinion hasn't changed, but I would like to offer you my apology after hearing more about what you've been through in recent times. Like I've said before, if I was still living in Cochise County, I'd have insisted on lending you a hand -- my place was in good shape & I had the spare time. It would have been my pleasure (especially if you fed me dinner.. lol).
    As for what I think is your greatest achievement, that would have to be your rainwater harvest & storage. Absolutely brilliant, GDP.. absolutely brilliant.. that's how I know you've got all of this!
    Best wishes, as always... 🤠👍

  • @ericjohnson1008
    @ericjohnson1008 Před rokem +2

    The front door is awesome.

  • @alyciapeters5073
    @alyciapeters5073 Před rokem +4

    Really have enjoyed following your progress! I’m a fellow desert 🏜 dweller! Great job you two!

  • @northstarprepsteader
    @northstarprepsteader Před rokem +3

    Wow, 5 years! Congrats! It’s so important to look back on what you have accomplished when there are so many things left to do. You have done an amazing job!! 🎉

  • @shellywilder3719
    @shellywilder3719 Před rokem +1

    I’m excited for the renewed energy you have mustered. We get knocked back and we get up again. 😊😊

  • @robinbowman2464
    @robinbowman2464 Před rokem +1

    Jess your smile is so pleasant.

  • @sueyates3555
    @sueyates3555 Před rokem +2

    Congratulations on 5 years Jim and Jess. I love your creativity on your home it has turned out absolutely beautiful. Both of you work through good and bad times and you stick together and give each other support.❤ Thanks so much to your brother Peter for being there also for you both and you also there for him.❤️

  • @marchill861
    @marchill861 Před rokem +6

    Congratulations on 5 Years !!! It always amazes me how much just you two have done. The projects you’ve completed together are unbelievable. I’d love to see Jess finish her rock covering the dome, I know this will take quite some time. The protection it will give the dome will be remarkable not to mention Jess gets her art talent involved it will be a beautiful dome. You two have had so many setbacks through storms, passings of family ( human and animal ) and pain for Jess, but you come through and stand together. I am glad I’m a fan and will be forever, keep going , you are the friend and neighbors I’d love to have !!! Now Peter get a slap on the back and a great new addition.
    Just one question how are you going to feed the rocket mass heater ? Where are you getting the wood , old pallets maybe? Wish you had a large cattle ranch nearby you could harvest dry cow patties. My Granddad used dry cow patties to warm his barn during the winter. I used to go through the pasture and gather them, laying them in the sun to dry. Love the videos and you three byyyeee

  • @tworebelsoffgrid
    @tworebelsoffgrid Před rokem +1

    Wow, you two have done so much these last 5 years! I think you hit the mail on the head when you talked about resiliency…I have found that is the most valuable life skill and even more true for us homesteaders! Love that the rainwater tested so well…we never had a doubt :) You guys have been such an inspiration to us out here in Arizona 🫶 Hope you guys enjoy the rest of your weekend ☀️

  • @Golden_SnowFlake
    @Golden_SnowFlake Před rokem +1

    Bro helping out is the way.
    Glad to see yall helping one another, that's how life is meant to be lived.

  • @raincoast9010
    @raincoast9010 Před 2 měsíci

    Your water collection is amazing.

  • @annalinekennedy1027
    @annalinekennedy1027 Před rokem +2

    Thanks for the update on your progress. Looking forward to your next project. Stay safe and good luck from a cold windy and wet South Africa. This is a normal winter and we are so thankful for the rain.

  • @wayneh3021
    @wayneh3021 Před rokem

    Congratulations on 5yrs.. Keep your heads up.. You two got this 😊👍👍

  • @monaestewart3602
    @monaestewart3602 Před rokem +1

    Wow, you guys! What accomplishments. So happy for you. Looking forward to seeing what's next... *Love, Love, Love the Snow Top Dome♥️!* Amazing.

  • @latainethomas3595
    @latainethomas3595 Před rokem +1

    So glad she is feeling better enjoy each video

  • @elsalopez6868
    @elsalopez6868 Před rokem +2

    Congratulations on your proyect so far.Nothing comes in easy,we need to push it in order to make things happen.Everything is getting better and better so keep up the good work because you guys inspire many of us.

  • @rosaolbera8768
    @rosaolbera8768 Před rokem

    You both have done so much work outthere and I am very happy to be part of your channel Rosa olbera from Texas

  • @jescojake
    @jescojake Před rokem

    Wow...a lot done in 5 years!! Thanks for all the videos showing what you are doing with your land and house build.

  • @KellieEverts-ss8uz
    @KellieEverts-ss8uz Před 2 měsíci

    I love her nature nurture touches

  • @theadventuresofbrockinthai4325

    Hey Jess and Jim and Peter, good to look back from time to time. I think it can motivate you.

  • @NicoleHoltActress
    @NicoleHoltActress Před rokem

    I love your little trough with the branch in it. Perfect place for the birds.

  • @davidsears5576
    @davidsears5576 Před rokem

    Enjoy watching you guys hope Jess feels better soon and gets full recovery

  • @sueantoine3855
    @sueantoine3855 Před rokem

    Everything takes time. I love your shingles. What an awesome idea. They are beautiful.

  • @Tony-mq5yo
    @Tony-mq5yo Před 10 měsíci

    The lady is amazing. I love her very much and wish best of luck

  • @lovegodlovefreedom2535

    Very hardworking folks with great artistic flair!!! You are inspirational for sure!😄❤️🙏🏽💯👍🏾

  • @brennagarten317
    @brennagarten317 Před rokem

    thank you for the recapitulation of the last 5 yrs!! I really enjoyed hearing the excitement in your voices re: the future! My favorite was definitely the cistern and gabion that surrounds it.

  • @hombredeacero3131
    @hombredeacero3131 Před rokem

    Congratulations on your anniversary. Looking forward to all your new plans much continued success to you all

  • @suecerri2686
    @suecerri2686 Před rokem

    The shingles are gorgeous and one of my favorite things. I love the rocket mass heater and of course the electrical work.

  • @cadcad4974
    @cadcad4974 Před rokem

    Excellent video of the past five years from the beginning to the present! Peace🙏

  • @Kalle1995
    @Kalle1995 Před rokem +1

    Thx for the update .. LOOOVE UUUU ❤

  • @kathleenmead9259
    @kathleenmead9259 Před rokem

    Excellent job you two! Love and peace!

  • @floriebrown2089
    @floriebrown2089 Před rokem +2

    Fantastic project I went away for a while because I had covid, it took me a long time to get over it but as soon as I could I join you both and did some catching up, I absolutely love what you are both doing, I like the life very much, the hard work and the way you both pick your selves up and carry on. It was so sad to learn that Jessica was ploughing on although she was in pain great admiration to you dear. As for Jim I called him the mole he is always digging what a great fellow you are Jim a fantastic husband to Jessica love you both and happy brother Peter came back. Thanks for the video.

  • @robertevans6481
    @robertevans6481 Před rokem

    Jess i pray that you get relief from your pain.

  • @sallys2423
    @sallys2423 Před rokem +3

    Wow, you've made SO much progress on your homestead! I was particularly fascinated by the rocket mass heater.
    Q: Is it possible to gather wood for the heater in the desert? Inquiring minds are curious!

  • @victoriafisher6934
    @victoriafisher6934 Před rokem

    This is a lot of work you've put before you like in olden days ! Not too many will do this! !!

  • @AnaGRodriguez-jm4vc
    @AnaGRodriguez-jm4vc Před 2 měsíci

    ❤ im so glad that I found you guys again oh my gosh I've been searching

  • @tarwingrill4531
    @tarwingrill4531 Před 25 dny

    I like the art work on the door!

  • @KellieEverts-ss8uz
    @KellieEverts-ss8uz Před 2 měsíci

    What a beautiful tree!

  • @joshuanicholsjr5327
    @joshuanicholsjr5327 Před rokem

    I have watched you guys from the start and have prayed for you and your success great job keep up the good work god bless

  • @joshuanicholsjr5327
    @joshuanicholsjr5327 Před rokem

    again that hand-cut colored metal you put up is called gingerbread and it was a cute idea it gives the eye something to look at and does give that facia a festive look great idea, god bless

  • @markbutterfield2189
    @markbutterfield2189 Před rokem

    so happy to see you guys in good spirits

  • @elizabethblane201
    @elizabethblane201 Před rokem

    Good for you. Onward and upward.

  • @judylee1860
    @judylee1860 Před rokem +2

    I love the artistic touches and the entry. The support systems (water, power, HVAC, etc) are amazing. Fun to watch happen

  • @charlenemarion5678
    @charlenemarion5678 Před rokem

    Congratulations and just wow you have accomplished so much in this last year!!

  • @kennethwikert2841
    @kennethwikert2841 Před 29 dny

    Great video! God bless.

  • @dyannejohnson6184
    @dyannejohnson6184 Před rokem

    Enjoy your openness

  • @Christenhelm
    @Christenhelm Před rokem +2

    Thank you all for posting this! We are newbies on the precipice of starting our homestead in Cochise county this winter and you’ve given such helpful ideas on timeline & your videos seem to always pop up when I’m looking for ideas. 😊

  • @deanmartin9358
    @deanmartin9358 Před 8 dny

    awesome well done

  • @ruthkent7190
    @ruthkent7190 Před rokem +1

    Evaluating accomplishments is so valuable, identifying next potential moves in life's adventure. Self care , rest is key enjoying the process...Brave, courageous, faithfulness, quiet contemplation, living is art. Thank you for sharing.

  • @barbarakarman8427
    @barbarakarman8427 Před rokem +1

    Great update on all that you have been going through and doing

  • @darienneflint9354
    @darienneflint9354 Před rokem

    Loved watching all the revisits in this video. Great seeing how your projects completed with ups n downs ... but achieving ... motto pick yourself up and move forward.

  • @feliciaobryan6156
    @feliciaobryan6156 Před rokem

    There are too many for me to pick just one. Love y'all so much.

  • @CharlotteBugYouTubeVideosMore

    Love family and so excited that you are able to share your world with family.

  • @georgeramirez5225
    @georgeramirez5225 Před 7 měsíci +1

    I enjoyed what you guys gone through for5years, I would like to know what guys do before Arizona.

  • @roberthill9011
    @roberthill9011 Před 10 měsíci

    You 2 are so inspirational to many don't forget that trolley inspiring. Love and light little one's 😊X

  • @dianaspy6733
    @dianaspy6733 Před rokem

    Always a joy to see your updates! ❤🎉😂

  • @carolmingus2754
    @carolmingus2754 Před rokem

    So proud of you guys and can't wait to see what you are going to do next!

  • @contentment164
    @contentment164 Před rokem

    A nice look back! Great work, folks.

  • @heath156
    @heath156 Před rokem

    Love you guys! Happiness, health n hugs❤.

  • @wadeprior5203
    @wadeprior5203 Před rokem +2

    Hey good morning or good afternoon you guys hope you guys are having a great day hope the animals are doing fine. Have a great day and have fun out there just be careful

  • @kevinh.w.crabbe8748
    @kevinh.w.crabbe8748 Před rokem

    Happy belated anniversary you two beautiful people. We sure love what you done throughout your years out there. May God keep on blessing use your years

  • @janina8559
    @janina8559 Před rokem +1

    I can honestly say I never thought the 2 of you would make it. Though it takes weirdo’s to actually make it you 2 complimented each other. Wow you 2 did it! I love you guys ❤️❤️❤️!

  • @danclark4998
    @danclark4998 Před rokem

    Wow guys!!! Lots of Awesome stuff done! We’re looking forward to starting our homestead too…closing on our land at the end of the month…hopefully see you around town!
    Thanks for your time and effort making these videos!!!

  • @virgoessence1233
    @virgoessence1233 Před rokem +2

    Congratulations 🎊!!!! All episodes are very interesting, informative and fun. I’ve learned PATIENCE watching your journey. What’s been the most challenging project for you guys??

  • @jdcjr50
    @jdcjr50 Před rokem

    Thank you so much for sharing your inspiring work! The entry and doorway really rocks, pun intended.

  • @marctorr5551
    @marctorr5551 Před 2 měsíci

    I love what you two have accomplished. I only have one idea to share with you. Look up Yellow horn trees, they thrive in deserts as they require very little water and produce nuts similar in taste to Mcadamea and rich in healthy oil with excellent health properties. They really have to be planted by seed but can start producing in three years and are as tall as a man in 7 years. Look them up.

  • @tonysajkowski3534
    @tonysajkowski3534 Před rokem

    This answers many questions I was wondering the storage container then the 5th. wheel camper trailer lots of work and more work great progress for you love the updated post.

  • @jbgood7694
    @jbgood7694 Před 3 měsíci

    Your homestead is so cool. Thanks for sharing your progress, troubles and how you overcame them. You definitely have a purpose. I'm looking forward to seeing more videos on your progress.

  • @albertdehn8381
    @albertdehn8381 Před rokem

    Thanks for sharing 👍😀

  • @deborahparnell8862
    @deborahparnell8862 Před rokem

    Soooooo proud of y'all!!! ty..xoxo 🥰✌🤟👍🖐🤪

  • @robinbowman2464
    @robinbowman2464 Před rokem

    Best hubby shingle maker ever...😊

  • @madmex2k
    @madmex2k Před rokem +1

    I like the Dome. It has a unique style to it and promises to be a great place to live when you are ready to move in. Also, I am looking forward to the Root Cellar Revival, or Root Cellar 2.0. Its hard with only 2 people, I wish you had more opportunities to bring in outside help to jumpstart that digout from the collapse. Not sure what tractor access you might have, but it would definitly be a boon for future progress. Keep Digging!

  • @supercasualtarot4861
    @supercasualtarot4861 Před rokem

    You both handled those tragedies with strength and resilience. I am very impressed with your courage to endure.

  • @Golden_SnowFlake
    @Golden_SnowFlake Před rokem

    Build a 2x4 crane to help remove those sandbags, would make the whole adventure substantially easier.

  • @makarovkid9696
    @makarovkid9696 Před rokem

    Beautiful work guys

  • @ChristiMeshell
    @ChristiMeshell Před rokem

    It was a blessing the root cellar caved at the moment it did. Imagine if you had been in there when it broke - that could have been truly tragic. You were spared and were able to fortify. Y’all are so inspiring! 🙏🏼

  • @williamhuntington1397

    You guys are incredible! Thanks for inspiring us!!

  • @johnlindsey8286
    @johnlindsey8286 Před rokem

    I had similar pain issues and discovered a sinus infection and began using a navage device that flushed out the sinus cavity w/a special salt rinse product. Then a medicated mouth wash. The infection lessened in a short time.

  • @charlenehuff19
    @charlenehuff19 Před rokem

    You guys are awesome.

  • @elainedegoede6276
    @elainedegoede6276 Před rokem

    So glad you up and running on all "cilinders" again. Cannot wait to see the next build. God bless you all💕🙏

  • @nicholasgardiner9601
    @nicholasgardiner9601 Před rokem

    Always remember and never forget, the plotters, the planners, the schemers, the artists, the dreamers, the designers the doers,the builders, the contractors, the dynamic duo, Jess and Jim, filled tamped barb wired, placed and cobbed each and every earthbag of their Dome home. A miracle of love, resilience, dedication and determination.
    🎆❤🤗🎉🎉🎉

  • @eleanorerosanova7538
    @eleanorerosanova7538 Před rokem

    Congratulations!!🎉

  • @HalsPals
    @HalsPals Před rokem

    You have family and unity. That is big, especially when one doesn't have it.

  • @kimmer5969
    @kimmer5969 Před rokem

    I'm happy to be watching your video again.

  • @BR1967FE
    @BR1967FE Před rokem

    Awesome, 5yrs wow, time Flys 🙂

  • @eleanorchapple8772
    @eleanorchapple8772 Před rokem +1

    Congratulations on five immensity interesting years. You live a fascinating lifestyle with challenges that most men and particularly women would find extremely difficult. The way the world is shaping up for humanity I think you will be the wise ones in years to come.

  • @SemiRetiredBob
    @SemiRetiredBob Před rokem

    Finally catching a new video, been watching your older videos as one of my preps for moving to west texas. Thanks for all you do!

  • @Viholio
    @Viholio Před rokem

    Love you guys! Love what you're doing! Love watching your triumphs, despite any set backs! And as Jim said, it's how you handle and react to tragedies and set backs that determines whether you make it or not!

  • @user-go7qg4pw5v
    @user-go7qg4pw5v Před rokem

    Awesome 👍🏼

  • @davec9244
    @davec9244 Před rokem

    Rome was not built in a day. Good job and it looks good thanks to Jess. ALL stay safe

  • @beachlife9419
    @beachlife9419 Před rokem

    Looks amazing guys