• Journal

    Back to the Basics

    Electricity—The impact of this single word is profound in our technologically advanced society. We rely on this commodity every day. It becomes easy and almost unavoidable to take the privilege of electricity for granted. We use it all the time. We use it when we take a shower, turn on a light, or cook a meal. It is everywhere. The electricity in the valley comes from our own (small), hydro-powered powerhouse, and the backup diesel generators. Though we theoretically have a steady supply of power, we experience frequent power outages. I count this as a blessing. It is a reminder of how great a privilege electricity is.  The longer you…

  • Journal

    What Do You Do in the Winter?

    One of the most common questions people ask when they find out about my remote lifestyle is… What do you do in the winter?  This lifestyle does lend itself to a seasonal cycle of busy, action packed summers, and slower, dark winters. But we don’t hibernate. We still do normal things like everyone else. We still have to take care of our homes and family. Even more so with carrying wood to keep us warm and shoveling snow. Like everyone else we do our laundry, make things to eat, maintain relationships, and do all the things necessary to live. In this serene and peaceful valley, time does seem to move…