Back to the Basics.

Meanwhile...back on the homestead things have been very well. You know, when you grow up with things such as power, plumbing, an abundant source of water, plenty of heat in the winter, etc. you really can't know what to expect when suddenly you are living off grid.


Well, speaking for myself - I can honestly say - I had only a little idea of what to expect. I knew only these things. Showers would be short. Using the restroom would be chilly. Sometimes being indoors might be chilly (though we haven't even touched down into our coldest months out here in Montana so stay posted on that.) And I HOPED the change of pace would be an eye opener. I hoped it would be a refreshing change of pace. A way to abruptly learn to really appreciate things that had so soon are taken for granted. I also hoped these changes would be a source of inspiration. A way to get Back to the Basics. 


So far, that's exactly what it has been. Though the past few weeks have been SO busy I think both of our heads are still wildly spinning out of control and I am SO anxious to have a day just to hang out and enjoy this new world. That day will come I am sure but not quite yet.


This week was an important one. The transition has been made. No more town. No more 30 minute hot showers every morning. The use of energy is now widely conserved. The priceless lessons of how to live outside of society are now underway. But all is good. Actually, quite wonderful. The stressors of "not knowing" are slowly diminishing and enjoyment of being in this new place is quickly taking hold. 


Both of us have always known we would love to learn to live completely off grid. Being independent, headstrong, and at times quite the "loners", we had always talked about Not Needing Anyone to exist in this world. You know you will miss certain things (though at the moment I can't say I miss ANYTHING about depending on people to live!) but you also know you are undertaking something that not many people can. That's a pretty cool &  what an opportunity in this day & age!


An endless supply of water is underway, I am now permitted to #1 indoors which is WONDERFUL! We have purchased 2 more batteries to add to the pack. The current batteries are doing the trick and keeping everything charged enough until morning, however their charge is dwindling so fast that it is alarming (and dramatically reduces the life expectancy of the batteries) so two more might just do the trick. 


Next week will be another busy one. A "front" porch area will be constructed & a larger propane tank which can be filled in bulk will hopefully be purchased. So far we are going through about 7 pounds of propane in 4 days - mind you I probably have it a LITTLE warmer in here then it actually needs to be but still not bad! But apparently propane is much more pricey when purchased in small quantities. Also, along with the front porch we will be using a heavy duty tarp of some sort to protect the slide out from acquiring large amounts of snow...any ideas welcome before that is underway. :) 


I awoke this morning to a beautiful frost filled valley. The sun comes up a little later in this nestled area. Everything is is so pure. So untouched. I am especially grateful to #1 inside on mornings like this. The views are so much more enjoyable through a window pane first thing upon rising. But the beauty I cannot quite express. It is also very good to know when & where the sun is hitting throughout the seasons in regards to future home sites!


As I type this I watch the sun slowly making it's way to where I sit. I have very limited cell & internet service here which I am inquiring on how to boost the signal a little bit. But for now it works! 


Haven't spotted any moose, bears, mountain lions, etc. passing by the windows yet but have noticed an enormous abundance of tracks, scat, and beds within 100 feet of MY bed in the mornings. Which prompted the purchase of a good spot light. I can hardly wait to see my neighbors now!  


We also discovered a fairly large beaver dam not far from the camper. I am excited to try to catch some good photos of them! Apparently they are nocturnal so I am hoping that if I wake up before the sun rises and prop myself on a rock with a good view I might be able to catch some action!


Time to get the day started - lots to do! Until next time -  from the mountains of Montana,


Take care!