This has been a long time coming. Our off-grid project has been in the works for quite a while — and while the path here looks a little different than we first imagined, it’s one we’re proud to finally start walking.
When I was still working, the plan was to move faster — with a bit more income to fuel the build. But life had other ideas, and since going out on disability, we’ve had to adjust our goals and timeline. That said, we can still make this dream work.
This isn’t going to be a big-budget, million-dollar homestead with a 100K solar array and brand-new everything. That’s not our world — and it doesn’t need to be. We live within our means and plan to build something sustainable, simple, and meaningful for our retirement years.
🏚️ The First Project: Converting the Mini Barn
Our first big step is converting our little mini barn (shed) into a secure, weatherproof space. It’ll serve as my base of operations — a place to store tools, get out of the rain, and start assembling the heart of our off-grid power system.
Inside, I’ll be setting up the solar and wind controllers, tied into a 3,000W inverter to start. It’s a modest setup, but it’ll give us power for tools, lighting, and communication gear.
For internet access, we’re adding a Starlink Mini, since there’s virtually no cellular coverage on the property. A cell booster will follow soon to improve connectivity when we’re working on-site.
🌲 Cleaning, Harvesting, and Prepping the Land
Before we can start building anything permanent, the forest needs some attention. Several storms have brought down trees, and there are quite a few dead standing ones that need to come down safely.
We’ll harvest what we can for firewood and clear space near the front of the property to organize yard gear before the snow arrives — which, being mid-October, isn’t far off now.
Unfortunately, our apple and pear trees didn’t survive the last few seasons. We planted them three years ago hoping they’d be producing by now, but the deer had other plans. Lesson learned — next time, fencing and protection will be part of the plan.
🌿 The Vision: Trails, Gardens, and Energy Systems
Over time, we want to create a network of trails stretching across all 13.8 acres — connecting different zones for growing food, processing greywater, and simply enjoying the forest.
Some areas will be for herbal gardens, others for small off-grid experiments and places to reflect — blending practicality with a bit of mystic adventure.
This winter will be about marking the trails, mapping zones, and identifying future sites for a greenhouse and pond. There’s a natural spring at the top of the property, which could become a clean water source and small-scale hydro opportunity down the road.
Navigating local codes and permits will be part of the adventure. Thankfully, our property sits in a section of the township with no minimum square footage requirements for dwellings — giving us freedom to build sustainably and creatively.
I’ve gathered the bylaws for alternative energy, livestock, and off-grid housing, and we’ll share everything we learn along the way.
📹 What’s Next: The Off-Grid Series
This marks the beginning of our new Off-Grid Living Series on
YouTube (@TimeToXplore) and Instagram (@t2_xplore). Still undecided on how often the socials will get updated.
We’ll be documenting every step — from wiring the inverter and setting up solar panels, to cutting trails and designing our greenhouse. The goal isn’t perfection; it’s persistence.
This project isn’t about escaping society — it’s about living intentionally within our means, finding peace in progress, and sharing the real-world challenges of building something that lasts.
So here we go.
One shed, one inverter, one trail at a time.