Nestled in the serene Kentucky hills, we’ve created a little slice of paradise that we lovingly call our “Away Home.” This off-grid retreat is a true testament to our ability to embrace simplicity and self-sufficiency while enjoying the beauty of nature. What began as a simple shed has now become a fully functional and comfortable getaway, thanks to my husband’s hard work and ingenuity. The process of transforming this humble structure into our dream retreat has been incredibly fulfilling, and we’re thrilled to share our journey with you.
The foundation of our “Away Home” started with a modest shed, which we purchased and turned into the perfect base for our off-grid lifestyle. One of the highlights of the space is the fantastic covered side porch that my husband built. This porch has become the heart of our home, where we spend most of our time. It serves as both our living and cooking area, where we gather with family and friends and enjoy meals together. I set up tables here for both dining and meal prep, and it’s also where I do most of our cooking using our Blackstone griddle. Cooking outdoors has been an absolute joy, especially with the beautiful view and fresh air surrounding us.
Living off the grid has required us to get creative, but we’ve made it work beautifully. Since we are far removed from the conveniences of urban living, we’ve set up some unique solutions to ensure that we can maintain comfort without relying on traditional utilities. One of the key elements of our off-grid setup is the use of barrels to bring in our water. While it may seem like a hassle, it’s become second nature, and it provides us with the water we need to live comfortably. We also have an instant hot water system hooked up to a boat battery, which powers our shower, ensuring we never have to go without a hot shower, even in the wilderness.
In addition to the water setup, we also use a generator for electricity, which has proven to be very reliable for our needs. Whether it’s for lighting, charging our devices, or powering small appliances, the generator has been a crucial part of our off-grid lifestyle. It allows us to stay connected to the essentials while still living in harmony with nature. Although we’re not completely disconnected from the modern world, we’ve made sure that our setup is sustainable, efficient, and tailored to our unique needs.
The beauty of this off-grid life is that it has forced us to slow down and truly appreciate the simple things. With no electricity bill to worry about and no modern distractions, we’ve found a sense of peace and fulfillment that can only be found in nature. The Kentucky hills provide a beautiful backdrop, and we’ve come to appreciate the quiet and calm that comes with living in a more intentional way. It’s a lifestyle that’s grounded in sustainability, creativity, and a deep connection to the land around us.
This off-grid setup has proven to be more than just a way of life—it’s become a way to reconnect with each other and with the world. The process of building and adapting our space has not only brought us closer as a couple, but it has also given us a greater appreciation for self-reliance and simplicity. It’s not always easy, but every challenge has made us stronger and more resourceful.
We’re incredibly grateful for the opportunity to share our off-grid adventure with you. Our “Away Home” is a testament to the power of creativity and resilience. Whether it’s through building the porch, setting up the water system, or adapting to life without modern conveniences, we’ve made it work. This journey has taught us to embrace the things that matter most: family, sustainability, and a life full of gratitude for the world around us. Thanks for letting us share our story, and we hope it inspires others to explore the possibilities of off-grid living in their own way.
