How Did We Get Here? Living Off Grid in the High Desert

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  • Опубліковано 15 лис 2024

КОМЕНТАРІ • 157

  • @dylancone7805
    @dylancone7805 2 роки тому +26

    My hat goes off to anyone that moves out to the high desert willingly. I headed to CA sight unseen for a job halfway between Death Valley and the Mojave and quickly realized I had bit off more than I could chew. Weeks of 120+ degree weather in the summer, unsafe drinking water, constant wind that would blow so hard it would knock out the power and shut down the highways. It was a 120 mile round-trip drive to the nearest Walmart if you needed anything (god forbid in an emergency). And like you mentioned, those drives didn't take you through the nicest parts of the city or through the nicest desert towns. There are some really sketchy places out that way. I lasted 10 months in the desert. It was too gnarly for me.
    You guys are doing it right by prepping a place you can come to for a stretch of time when the weather is cooperating. I don't think I could ever recommend someone move out there full time unless they had spent significant time there (in all seasons). I truly don't know if most people could handle living in that environment. I couldn't.

    • @jonathanbmBen-Menachem
      @jonathanbmBen-Menachem Рік тому

      What I like about both of you is your ability to evolve together and to gradually develop your property without heavy loans, working slowly but steadily with what you have. Amazing!

  • @posteroonie
    @posteroonie 2 роки тому +6

    That's the out-est outhouse I've ever seen! :)

  • @Metaphoreign
    @Metaphoreign 2 роки тому +3

    I have been living in the high desert for 4 years now -- and have learned that off-grid living is awesome if you have a well and septic, but without it, it is less sustainable because of the amount of energy it takes to haul water to remote sites, and I've noticed that many of the off grid people I know who don't have septic, end up having pretty unsanitary waste disposal practices.

    • @JaneH3675
      @JaneH3675 2 роки тому +1

      A well and septic to me is a must. As a kid we had an outhouse and a pitcher pump well. We survived.

  • @sneakersonfeet9045
    @sneakersonfeet9045 2 роки тому +21

    Love watching you guys grow together

  • @RV_Chef_Life
    @RV_Chef_Life Рік тому +1

    We’ve been full timing for 6 years and made our way down to Southern NM from the PNW and fell in love with it here. We just starting looking for remote land in NM with relaxed building codes to possibly build an earth ship. Glad I found your channel.

  • @BethS55
    @BethS55 2 роки тому +3

    I have enjoyed,watching you sweet young ones growing together! I'm a fan!

  • @JaneH3675
    @JaneH3675 2 роки тому

    Would like to add; I love the cabin 👍 and there's nothing like being self sufficient.

  • @llorylloyd
    @llorylloyd 2 роки тому +1

    You can tell what a sweet guy Nate is by the ways he gently lowers his trash in the bin versus tossing it. 😁

  • @ScottPDX
    @ScottPDX 2 роки тому +1

    7:59, serious eyeroll that appears to say, "Get your crap together!" Also, get one of those electrical bug zapper tennis racket looking things...so satisfying.

  • @alohatvn
    @alohatvn 2 роки тому +4

    Big like 👍. Great video 📹. You two make a great team. Look forward to seeing the house 🏠 you will be working on very soon.

  • @evelyndunn50
    @evelyndunn50 2 роки тому +9

    Thanks for sharing, Nate and Shannon you work so well together love the view from the new bathroom.

  • @4yellowwolf
    @4yellowwolf 2 роки тому +2

    Thanks for clarifying. It was a bit confusing. Every time I tuned in you guys were into something different and somehow it was supposed to tie into van life but not really. Now I get ! Good luck 🍀

  • @armaniartist6185
    @armaniartist6185 2 роки тому +6

    Fellow tiny-house-er here, and currently have an unintentional outhouse as well… ah, the “simple life”, yes…? 😉
    You two are wonderful and glad to see how things are progressing… but curious about that glass door for the bathroom…. 🤔 I guess it makes the outdoors a natural next step…? ☺️😊

  • @richardstoc
    @richardstoc 2 роки тому +3

    The emanate economic collapse caused by government mismanagement and high energy cost of travel it is a must to have a home base / homestead to call home, living a more stable life in one place plus all the projects will keep you busy until travel cost are more manageable.

  • @KindCreature1
    @KindCreature1 2 роки тому +1

    Wow, an out house with a view in the 21st century! The background music was fun today. Thank you. Mike in Oregon

  • @jet4415
    @jet4415 2 роки тому +2

    That fire photo was excellent.

  • @SeattleFocusBlue
    @SeattleFocusBlue 2 роки тому +8

    So glad to hear how you ended up out there. Thank you for the explanation. Sounds awesome to have so many acres and all the freedom too to be off grid and talking about the ups and downs too.

  • @FloridaNativeMike
    @FloridaNativeMike 2 роки тому

    "Fewer dishes and tastiess"... What more is there???!!! 😁

  • @thizizliz
    @thizizliz 2 роки тому +3

    Utilizing income streams is brilliant! Good for you two. OK, the nature's head issue needs sorting out but you'll manage!

  • @nickbnash
    @nickbnash 2 роки тому +4

    I’m glad that you have avoided the fire so far. When I heard about it I thought of you two and hoped you were ok.

    • @dontworrybehappy5139
      @dontworrybehappy5139 2 роки тому +1

      Yeah, also as a Northern Californian who experienced the smoke from wildfires in the past decade, I would recommend you pick up a good air purifier and some comfortable N95 masks just in case you start to get the smoke from the fires at your place. The particles from these fires can be really bad for your health with prolonged exposure.

  • @bonniepwtf
    @bonniepwtf 2 роки тому +6

    Showing it as it is, the nitty gritty & all. I give you both so much credit, you've undertaken a lot with this & so many of your goals are far reaching. I have never experienced that in my own life so I am so glad to be watching this new adventure. Praying that the fires stay away from you.🙏❤

  • @sarahm4809
    @sarahm4809 2 роки тому +7

    Shannon is magnetic! She brings such a dynamic energy to the channel!

  • @James_71
    @James_71 2 роки тому +1

    Love the new nature bathroom, all your missing is a cup of coffee and a foot stool..lol

  • @vannerdherd
    @vannerdherd 2 роки тому +1

    Nate, keep working on that golf game, & go play on the PGA tour! LOL! Do y'all need poopouri??

  • @ChristinaColoradoan
    @ChristinaColoradoan 2 роки тому +1

    Great plan! Being flexible is the easiest way to carry on throughout the struggles 👍🌞🌞🌞🌞

  • @bitminerbob6731
    @bitminerbob6731 2 роки тому +2

    The loo with a view!! :)

  • @ohwhatisawtoday
    @ohwhatisawtoday 2 роки тому +2

    You guys rock! I love that idea of living out in the desert off grid. Thanks for sharing, waiting on the next video.

  • @lynnef3297
    @lynnef3297 2 роки тому +6

    Thanks for sharing the real deal of off grid living. I'm enjoying this part of your adventure and the tiny house build. Good luck to both of you, and remember all the things you are learning along the way will certainly be a benefit of this experience. 😄👍

  • @sjbock
    @sjbock 2 роки тому +1

    Very sweet video. About the outdoor toilet... you might want to put up some kind of privacy curtain or fence. One thing I learned when I had property in the hill country outside Austin on the Pedernales River is how far you can see out in the country and how many people we saw skinny dipping who thought they were in the middle of nowhere and all alone. Just because you can't see people doesn't mean they can't see you.

  • @FreeEnergy137
    @FreeEnergy137 2 роки тому +2

    You complement each other. All the best to you both!

  • @nevrstopdrivin
    @nevrstopdrivin 8 місяців тому

    Awesome. I’d love a place like that. What a challenge!! I’m retiring in 1 year and that’s exactly what I’m looking for.

  • @TXMEDRGR
    @TXMEDRGR 2 роки тому +1

    Traveling with a home base to return to would be the best. Good luck.

  • @77SonofGod77
    @77SonofGod77 2 роки тому

    Awesome POV!~
    Beautiful TEAMWORK 👍

  • @TickleBall
    @TickleBall 2 роки тому +3

    Great video, guys. Keep up the good work.

  • @wildmongoose7037
    @wildmongoose7037 2 роки тому +1

    Reminds me of when I made the move from Hawaii to Washington State,from the sun to the beautiful NW,that only lasted 5 years,I give you a year or less there. Still a great adventure.

  • @ic610
    @ic610 2 роки тому

    That's a great way to plan to for your future .😁❤️❤️🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏

  • @RonInAVan
    @RonInAVan 2 роки тому +2

    Nate you two are great!! You know my wife and I’m positive she would not want to live like that. That’s why when I want to do off grid living/camping I go solo...lol
    I really wish I could find some property like that for myself, I am looking.
    That outdoor toilet 🚽 brought back memories when I was 11 years old back in Omaha Arkansas. We had no electricity just oil lamps and my mom had to heat water on a wood burning stove for a bath and it was normal for the toilet to be outside. Yes that was back when life was simple. You guys enjoy every minute of it out there, I feel you two are the lucky ones!!

  • @thexxit
    @thexxit 2 роки тому +2

    I love Shannon! She is so beautiful and fun and bright.... I can wait to see what you two do to transform the land in a sustainable way. Also, what a gorgeous spot to use the bathroom 😂

  • @LostOnLandAgain
    @LostOnLandAgain 2 роки тому

    You guys are living the life. Shannon rocks. She's not afraid is she.

  • @CarrieMtn
    @CarrieMtn 2 роки тому

    We were in the manzano mountains this last week. I wondered if you were near there. It was pretty. Thanks for another nice video

  • @rickardenstedt
    @rickardenstedt 2 роки тому +1

    Aiming for one hundred thousand subs until Christmas! Regards Rickard from Sweden 🇸🇪

  • @PhantomLife
    @PhantomLife 2 роки тому

    That Desert looks a lot like the High Desert area between Victorville to Pearblossom near Palmdale; within North L.A. County.
    Instead of leaving the Vehicle hood open;
    • Set some standard mousetrap near the vehicle engines lid. using Peanut butter.
    • Also set some 'Peanut Butter Roller, Bucket traps'; search UA-cam to see those.
    • The Rodents go to the vehicles as a Safety hiding place from Other predators; usually during the night.

  • @jackbear4528
    @jackbear4528 2 роки тому

    Thanks for sharing 👍 I've been in both Albuquerque / Santa Fe and really like the area...

  • @ExploringJ
    @ExploringJ 2 роки тому

    When you visit Albuquerque go to boxing bear brewery on tramway. Get tacos delivered to the brewery then get ice cream right next door after. That's a nice part of Albuquerque! I live across the street lol. The Lowe's is on the same block lol

  • @pixeljedi8472
    @pixeljedi8472 2 роки тому

    Off grid living is one thing, but New Mexico is the 4th World… get out while you can! Took me a couple decades to get unstuck! Good luck!

  • @elsajohnson6663
    @elsajohnson6663 2 роки тому

    Oh guys we have a compost toilet (we have been living off grid for 25 years) and flies are a real problem no matter what you use unfortunately. We use shavings, which produces fewer flies than peat, the issue is needing the spray compost stuff to break down eveeything but its prohibitivey expensive. Really going to just need to clean it out frequently. Its a frustrating problem and I have to say after all these years would love to have a flush toilet!😫

  • @patsykluting-lucas3804
    @patsykluting-lucas3804 2 роки тому +1

    Love the new outdoor bathroom...

  • @grayeagleswolves
    @grayeagleswolves 2 роки тому +2

    Hi Nate and Shannon What a Great day in the Morning Living the dream doing your own thing in the Desert of SantaFe I've been to Taos back when I was a younger man and loved it the weather is just perfect the cost of living their isn't bad but it is a bit steep glad to see you getting the toilet squared away and the other daily chores done

    • @GetH0NEY
      @GetH0NEY 2 роки тому

      Unfortunately Taos is expensive as fk now.

  • @matthewbisland2740
    @matthewbisland2740 2 роки тому +4

    You know your alive when you poop outside!

  • @OldBlindDougArtist
    @OldBlindDougArtist 2 роки тому +1

    Love your video Nate, been watching for a long time. You are killing me with the music 🎶 if you are going to talk I can't hear you over the music.

  • @joharmon2148
    @joharmon2148 2 роки тому +1

    Get a luggable loo for the time being wouldn't get me out there in the dark hahaha

  • @davydoodledo
    @davydoodledo 2 роки тому +1

    Domestic life suits you both well. Sounds like a solid plan 👍

  • @lynnbosuego497
    @lynnbosuego497 2 роки тому

    I have been watching you Nate and I like what I see and more so now with Shannon beside you . You guys can do great things together because you are focused and you have to like what you do in order to do a great job and next to it is hard work. I can’t wait to see the next project. Take care of each other……

  • @billyhendoe4170
    @billyhendoe4170 2 роки тому

    Benny Hill music to the toilet change would have been :) .

  • @olebloom1641
    @olebloom1641 2 роки тому +4

    Outdoor outhouse. :)

    • @TXMEDRGR
      @TXMEDRGR 2 роки тому +1

      That's what I was thinking too.

  • @joeshmooo5327
    @joeshmooo5327 2 роки тому

    Boy Nate Shannon is a keeper!!!

  • @dbentley2195
    @dbentley2195 2 роки тому +1

    Good luck guys enjoyed the video can't wait for the next one ❤️👍

  • @cousinjeb7116
    @cousinjeb7116 2 роки тому +1

    Handwashing laundry in the tub sounds like a good idea if it's useless as a tub? And then water the cucumbers with it afterward?

  • @Chrisb8s
    @Chrisb8s 2 роки тому +4

    Nate I am glad that you are happy with Shannon’s decisions.

  • @NoProGoPronto
    @NoProGoPronto 2 роки тому

    I strongly suggest you guys watch “Tyler and Todd” UA-cam channel. They are living off grid in Canada and can offer some amazing ideas. They even have the dome home you mentioned.

  • @yoshuareece8785
    @yoshuareece8785 2 роки тому

    I live in Albuquerque. Have a few acres near Belen. Thinking tiny adobe house daydreams.

  • @rainkinggw
    @rainkinggw 2 роки тому

    I had to listen to Santa Fe by Samantha Crain after this one

  • @vincentsoliday123
    @vincentsoliday123 2 роки тому

    Outstanding!

  • @Frenchcrop
    @Frenchcrop 2 роки тому

    Nice to see you are both making the best of it - interesting to see the adaptations that it brings too. Onwards and upwards!

  • @b4804514
    @b4804514 2 роки тому +1

    Guys I suggest you get an air purifier and some masks good for smoke filtration. Smoke particles are very bad for your lungs so be careful.

  • @pmatt8686
    @pmatt8686 2 роки тому

    Great video. I live in a place similar to that in NC but only on a half acre. Would be great to have views and less humidity

  • @Detroitblue
    @Detroitblue 2 роки тому

    Element Life popped up in my feed and so I thought is the Element Van Life? Then I clicked and was like WTF happened? Living off grid now? Then I saw the whole situation and thought... Why? But then figured that if you can live in a Honda Element for a few year and then again in another micro camper then a barren desert is a logical step for you.

  • @scable-eq7bp
    @scable-eq7bp 2 роки тому

    Maybe in the future install a on demand hot water heater system. Also purchase a couple of more water storage tanks and then have water delivered or look around for a water wagon you can pull behind the truck.....

  • @antoinetteblack3300
    @antoinetteblack3300 2 роки тому +2

    Ya'll just sweet !

  • @TheDawnofVanlife
    @TheDawnofVanlife 2 роки тому

    Love the view from your outhouse 🤣🤣

  • @karencooper6634
    @karencooper6634 2 роки тому

    sure is nice to see Shannon and get to know her better....thanks for the share of why you are there.....very interesting and such an opportunity.I hope you get a chance to see the Earthship in Taos.

  • @calvinmarshall1610
    @calvinmarshall1610 2 роки тому

    Cool video looking forward to seeing your next episode thanks for the update be safe 😁😁

  • @zizlog_sound
    @zizlog_sound 2 роки тому

    I would definitely bring my handyman skills up to speed if I was you. Fixing a broken handle of a composting toilet I regard basic skills.

  • @kathykukura279
    @kathykukura279 2 роки тому

    I really enjoyed this video. Thank you for filling us in on your move.

  • @leonardli3667
    @leonardli3667 2 роки тому

    Ice update and thank you for sharing your adventures. Stay safe! 😊

  • @jeffreywhitaker5154
    @jeffreywhitaker5154 2 роки тому +2

    Damn, they look like they struggling right now.

  • @georgek1954
    @georgek1954 2 роки тому

    ..love this, thanks for sharing!! the personal insight is heartwarming

  • @donnyt857
    @donnyt857 2 роки тому

    Get fly tape. They make a clear double sided sticky pad to stick to windows to catch flys.

  • @dlhoskin
    @dlhoskin 2 роки тому

    Thank you for sharing the new video.

  • @DeerheartStudioArts
    @DeerheartStudioArts 2 роки тому

    yay! Nate & Shannon!

  • @dontworrybehappy5139
    @dontworrybehappy5139 2 роки тому

    Hopefully it doesn't rain before you get the new toilet working! 🤣💧🚽 🧻 🤞
    Thanks for fun video. I really enjoy following your adventures.

  • @bypinkerton892
    @bypinkerton892 2 роки тому

    Yep... That's a Throne with a View.....
    Be sure to check for Snakes before Sitting....
    I wish you both well with all your Plans....
    It's much better to make Plans then Not....
    Good Luck....

  • @i.g.9708
    @i.g.9708 2 роки тому

    Basil and lavender will help keep flies away.. 👍

  • @cbeaucrawford
    @cbeaucrawford 2 роки тому

    Next time you are in Albuquerque explore Uptown (Louisiana Blvd). It's a nice shopping area all around the Apple Store. There are 3 malls and box stores plus lots of restaurants.

  • @predator6707
    @predator6707 2 роки тому

    Awesome videos like it always is you’re always so entertaining even if you’re talking about toilets still very entertaining thanks for making your videos I enjoy watching them and I’ll see you in the next thanks again you folks are awesome

  • @warrendelay
    @warrendelay 2 роки тому +1

    Good stuff,, Great video. Thank you!!!

  • @jill4310
    @jill4310 2 роки тому

    I love the cabin! And I’d love to hear about the house in town you’re working on!

  • @leann4925
    @leann4925 2 роки тому

    Hi! Nate and Shannon, Just loved this as you have a really nice place. So much potential sitting right before you as you have the land to do it on. I remember using an out house as a kid in our travels and like your concept. You have fixed up the inside of the cabbin really nice. Looking forward to your visions of the place. Hugs to Both and thanks.

  • @stanleybest8833
    @stanleybest8833 2 роки тому

    Laundry? I live right next to two laundromats but laundry is done in a covered pickle bucket with a stick. Never cold water.

  • @markreynolds3850
    @markreynolds3850 2 роки тому

    Thanks for sharing this video, interesting video.

  • @jrsmac5081
    @jrsmac5081 2 роки тому

    I’ve been watching your videos for several months.
    I don’t like unsolicited advice from others, but here is my unsolicited advice.
    Cut your loses, and leave.
    But then I saw your explanation of why you moved out there, and I have an opinion of; “Cut your loses and get out of there!”
    Do you really like living out there?
    Will people really want to vacation there?
    But, this is my unsolicited opinion, and your life is yours, not anyone else’s.
    I do hope it works out for you, as you continue.
    And I will probably watch, to see how you do.
    But seriously, do you think someone would want to vacation out there?
    If this is your dream, then may God Guide you to Success!

  • @StephenAldaco
    @StephenAldaco 2 роки тому

    Your girlfriend is a trooper dude 👍 this is a good look into off grid life for sure

  • @MeTheJedi
    @MeTheJedi 2 роки тому

    cute wee video 😁. My hubby is trying to build a geodesic dome...seconds time's the charm 🤞 Hehehe

  • @djr5526
    @djr5526 2 роки тому

    Actually I have an outdoor umm toilet like that. It's just what you have to do sometimes.

  • @wcemichael
    @wcemichael 2 роки тому

    I envy you guys.... I could live like this but my ex-wife could never live like this, even though she comes from the poor country of Laos. Did you ever think of looking for an engine powered washing machine??? You guys ever think of an outhouse??? Obviously you can't use it everyday, but.............. it does dose give your a plan B

  • @laurajphillips
    @laurajphillips 2 роки тому

    Best of luck!

  • @susana6917
    @susana6917 2 роки тому +1

    Wishing y'all the very best! Love your videos! Curious what your thoughts are to protect the property and buildings from those dastardly wind blown fires out there? Fire retardant exterior paint? Extra rain barrels? Cutting a fire swath around property parameter? (Have heard that sometimes there is financial help for that). Fingers crossed it never comes to pass. Care about your safety and investments... 🤗🌺

  • @EJLily686
    @EJLily686 2 роки тому +1

    Shannon, did you keep the Florida property? I think you planned to use that as a rental property.

    • @ElementLife
      @ElementLife  2 роки тому +3

      Yep she did. It's rented out at the moment.

  • @TimmyCramer
    @TimmyCramer 2 роки тому +1

    I love having 2 toilets in my home. I clean them myself with pride. Too many spoiled people in America.

  • @jonathanjacques7250
    @jonathanjacques7250 2 роки тому +3

    Where's the nearest Hospital? One bad accident and your screwed.

    • @lesleyhughes3174
      @lesleyhughes3174 2 роки тому +1

      Have you made that same comment to the thousands of other people who live remotely??