The Campfire Trail: October 18 - DIY Homestead

October 18, 2022

Day 382 of the Adventure

Last night was the first dip into sub-freezing temps and it was accompanied by gusty wind. The good news in all that was the cabin did not seem affected at all by the wind, and the newly installed wood stove kept us plenty warm. Both were good signs. Perhaps the better part of that news is that even though we do have alternative heat available, the wood heat adds nothing to the energy bills other than the cost of chainsaw gas. We even used the stove to make breakfast this morning. Nothing too complicated, stove top oatmeal. To me, all of that is more victory in the move towards self-sufficiency.

Self-Sufficiency to us is really nothing more than reducing our reliance on other sources. Things such as food, fuel, transportation, entertainment and honestly, just about anything else that pulls on one's hard-earned income. Many of the measures we've taken are things anyone can do. Aside from moving out into the middle of the woods, which not everyone would be interested in that much I suppose. We've downsized our home. Downsized much of the things we used to call necessities. We've come to appreciate more of a minimalistic life. Not necessarily one of stark existence. Just one of fewer responsibilities involving the caring for "Stuff" and more of keeping life simple to enjoy the things we do consider important. The peace and quiet that seems to go hand in hand with a "Self-Sufficient" life is intoxicating when compared to the fast-paced life we had grown accustomed to. Spinning plates and trying to keep them from all crashing to the ground is something I am very content to leave in the past. A plate of biscuits and gravy along with a cup of hot coffee in a cozy cabin while looking out the window at a blustery Fall morning is........ Well, It's enough!.................

Carry On

Adventure Quote: “Live the Life of Your Dreams: Be brave enough to live the life of your dreams according to your vision and purpose instead of the expectations and opinions of others.” ― Roy T. Bennett

Base Camp Coffee of the Day: Lost up the Creek (Sumatra)

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