About a year and a half ago, I embarked on a journey that would transform my life. I purchased a 10-acre piece of land in Northern California with the dream of living off-grid and creating a sustainable, self-sufficient homestead. For most of the time, I’ve been working on the property in the evenings and weekends, balancing my professional life and my passion for off-grid living. Though I’ve come a long way, I’m still in the process of developing and refining my homestead, but the experience has already been incredibly rewarding.
My home on the property is a yurt, which I power with 1000 watts of solar energy. The beauty of using solar power is that it allows me to stay connected to modern conveniences without relying on the grid. The solar panels provide enough electricity to run lights, charge devices, and power essential appliances. Solar energy has been one of the most satisfying aspects of living off-grid—it allows me to reduce my carbon footprint and embrace a more sustainable lifestyle. It also offers a sense of independence that feels empowering.
Another important feature of my homestead is the composting toilet. Instead of relying on traditional plumbing, the composting toilet allows me to process waste in a sustainable, eco-friendly way. It’s incredibly simple to use, and I feel good knowing that I’m not contributing to the waste and water usage associated with conventional systems. It’s a small but impactful change that has made a big difference in how I live day-to-day.
The weather in Northern California can get chilly, especially in the winter months, so I’ve set up two heating systems in the yurt. I use a woodstove, which I enjoy for its rustic charm and the warmth it provides. There’s something special about gathering firewood and starting a fire to warm up the space, and it also serves as a backup if my diesel heater ever fails. The diesel heater is another fantastic tool for keeping the yurt warm, providing reliable heat when needed. I love the versatility of having two different heating options, which ensures that I’m prepared for any situation.
In addition to living on this beautiful 10-acre property, I also run a business that is closely tied to my homestead. I build yurts for a living, and this property has served as the perfect place to test out new designs and refine my craft. Living in a yurt while simultaneously designing and building them has given me invaluable insights into what works and what doesn’t. I’ve learned a great deal about how to make the yurts more comfortable, efficient, and sustainable. The feedback I gain from my own living experience has helped me create better products for my customers, and I’m always excited to improve and innovate.
The land itself is stunning, with rolling hills, expansive views, and a variety of natural resources. The property is a perfect blend of solitude and opportunity—there’s plenty of room for me to expand my homestead, garden, and experiment with different ideas. I’ve started planting fruit trees, which I hope will flourish and provide fresh produce for years to come. One of the most exciting parts of living here is being able to create something from scratch. Each season brings new challenges and rewards as I tend to my land, improve my living space, and learn more about off-grid living.
Though the work is never-ending, it’s incredibly fulfilling. I love the process of building and improving things by hand, and I’ve gained a deep sense of satisfaction from being able to create my ideal living space from the ground up. I’ve learned a lot about problem-solving, sustainability, and the value of hard work. There’s a real sense of connection to the land when you’re living off-grid—you’re not just passing through, you’re becoming part of it.
Living off-grid has also given me a deeper appreciation for nature. Without the distractions of modern life, I have more time to enjoy the beauty of my surroundings. The property is quiet and peaceful, and I often spend my mornings watching the sunrise over the hills, listening to the birds, and taking in the fresh air. It’s a way of living that encourages mindfulness and presence, and it has helped me reconnect with what truly matters. Every day I feel grateful for the opportunity to live in such a beautiful and serene place.
Of course, off-grid living isn’t without its challenges. The isolation can sometimes be difficult, especially during the winter months when I’m cut off from town and the amenities I’m used to. There are always repairs to make, systems to maintain, and unexpected obstacles to overcome. But for every challenge, there’s a sense of accomplishment when I figure it out. I’ve learned to be resourceful and resilient, and those lessons have made me a stronger person.
Another part of off-grid life that I enjoy is the simplicity. There’s a certain freedom in not having to worry about utility bills, and I find that living with fewer possessions and distractions has given me a clearer sense of purpose. I’ve learned to appreciate the things I have and to live more intentionally. It’s amazing how much more fulfilling life can be when you focus on the essentials.
As I continue to build and grow my off-grid homestead, I look forward to seeing how it evolves over the years. The yurt, the solar power system, the composting toilet, and the heating systems are just the beginning. I plan to add more sustainable systems, like rainwater collection and additional gardening space, to make the property even more self-sufficient. There’s always something new to try, and that’s what keeps the journey exciting.
In many ways, living on this 10-acre homestead has been one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. It’s taught me invaluable life skills, given me a sense of purpose, and allowed me to embrace a lifestyle that aligns with my values. The process of creating a homestead from scratch is incredibly rewarding, and I’m excited to see where this journey will take me. Living off-grid in Northern California is a challenge, but it’s also one of the most fulfilling and joyful experiences of my life.
