John Wells passed away. On a Wednesday in January 2024. He was an inspiration to many of us that now live out here. I never got to meet him, but always wanted to thank him. We followed his beautiful videos, and love his heart. It's very sad he is gone. He was something else. Rest in peace John. ❤
My wife and I have visited John Wells a number of times, and are happy to call him a friend. We love his dry humor, and his ability to design and fabricate practically anything. Also, his love and care for the local wildlife is uplifting. Thanks for featuring him.
Can't get more tenderfoot than Manhattan, I love this guy, no more fancy restaurants, no more sirens, parking restrictions, NYPD and snobs, just clean living. He sounds happy to me.
@@rosebell8929 Junk? Junk would be a bunch of materials put to no use. This man uses everything he has, he builds genius things out of this "junk" as you put it. Real junk is all that commercial overpriced consumer crap everyone in big cities like to buy because they don't know how to do anything. This guy is a genius and city wage slaves are the suckers. This guy has it all figured out.
kettlebelle1, Not only does he have what, ten guns, he’s self-sufficient. It’s the ones that think living off grid is easy and then go running back to a town so they can have a flush toilet and turn on a faucet. This guy is not only a simple genius, he’s hard working. He has to work every day in order to survive. He’s by no means a lefty. Lefties love free stuff, there is nothing free where he lives, not if he wants to keep on living.
I have always admired people who are like him. I think now in my mid 50’s I feel less like I want to be out of my home, And more that I like being alone. Yet I don’t know that I wouldn’t go “stir crazy “ without interaction....
People in big cities wash too much. I now only shower twice a week and my skin has stopped being dried out, flaky and itchy. every second day should suffice unless engaging in heavy exercise in a hot climate and of a certain ( puberty and young adult ) age. Also turn down the heat on the water and avoid heavily perfumed body washes!
In 2011 I got tired, I mean "tired", so I bought a one-way ticket to Costa Rica. I've been living here since then. I had a condo in Miami, mortgage was $1,253, it was 995 sq ft of living space and zero property. With a view of nothing. My total monthly cost of living was about $2,200. I now live in a house that's 700 sq ft. The property sits 4,000 sq meters or 43,000 sq ft. with a pool, fruit trees, a large gazebo-like space, which is larger than my house and has three bathrooms (one with a shower for the pool) and two bedrooms. I have a view of a volcano and the mountain range of Nicaragua. I forgot to mention my pool water is gravity feed from an underground spring and I'm also on a mountain. So, it cost me nothing to fill it and my pool water is cleaner than the municipal water I used to pay for in Miami. My rent is $150 a month 10 Mb internet is $40. Monthly water is $5 to $10. Energy bill between $15 and $20. Food about $100. Fuel for motorcycle about $40 to $100, depending on how many leisure rides I take. My cost of living is about $400 a month. I'm 39 years old. The biggest issue was the fear of "change".
@Dana Brockway You are so dumb, it is just sad that people can become as ignorant as you. My god. Use your brain. Right now you are just dragging society down with your stupidity.
I often tell folks in a somewhat joking way that I'm looking for a job as a hermit in a cave. Only thing is I'm not joking. You have a very rich life Mr Wells. Its people around my age (57) and older taking the plunge that inspire and motivate me. My hats off to you. I'll get there eventually.
And finding a cave is hard ? You are full of shit. If you really wanted to go you would have gone long time ago. Another "internet warrior" wishing he had guts to pursue his dreams.
Well, I'm reminded of the Robert Redford comment in 3 Days Of The Condor, where he observes that all the photographs on her (Faye Dunaway) walls are empty of people.
He seems very excited for the company. I think the down side to this kind of living is the isolation. Not due to loneliness, but for mental health. having other humans to talk to, bounce thoughts off of, and just reach out to is essential and an integral part of being human. There are a lot of clever ideas here, however, and definitely the paired down lifestyle is very appealing.
@Evan Hodge hahahaha yeah.. no. Born and raised in the country with a strong dislike for the city. I’m not talking about millions of people brushing against you constantly and jammed into subways here.
America needs a hard reset. All this stuff we are surrounded in but have no need of, yet basic needs are easily taken for granted. This dude is all set! I think he has real wealth and prosperity.
daniel madrid you're exactly right dude and this guy owns Forty Acres you're damn right he's wealthy how many of us on 40 acres of anything? I'm living on a fucking postage stamp-sized yard it's probably 1/16 of an acre and I paid way too much for it fuck that
it is exactly what i want myself though i do want to be able to power a lathe/milling machine. also self taught blacksmith, saddler and carpenter. i grew up jillarooing and sawmiling in australia
here in australia we have single phase which is 240 volt and 3 phase which is 415 though in 415 there are about half a dozen diferent amperages from 20 amp up to 50 amp. even in single phase there are 2 amperages being 10 and 15 amps respectively. for single phase all the difference is is heavier earthing and other wiring on the 15 amp circuit being heavier
Love it, love it! I moved out also. I lowered my cost to meet my means without worry. It really is the only way a person that is ill can continue. You have the dream. Work is what your slave mind craves. Breathing easy is what the soul craves.
I'd argue he's closer to a doctor than he is in NYC, as he knows his neighbors and its easier to go 120mph into Alpine than it is wait for an ambulance in NYC. Above a comment mentions the "fear of change", that's what you sir are suffering from, respectfully.
WEST TENNESSEE PREPPERS I'm with you! They work hard to keep us in debt and big pharma works hard to get us sick then dead. I absolutely want less stuff which means less work. I don't want to clean rooms that I barely use and, well, I'm just sick of it all. I want to do what you had the guts and common sense to do. I prep and that takes up the most room in my house. Kudos to you. I'm right behind you.
I watched this vid in early 2015 one of the many videos that helped me downsized my life not to the level he has but close saved so much money and enjoyed life more. I will be retiring later this year in 2020 at the age of 41. As I type this relaxing in Colombia south america the past 4 months I wish I could explain to people how well we have it in the U.S. the ability to save and retire so wealthy in other places.
I simply love this place, and I could live the rest of my days happily way out like this too, and never think twice about it or look back. In fact - this video has inspired me to sell my business / home and follow suit. After all, not getting any younger - and I absolutely despise the headache of city life nowadays. Thanks for sharing this video - I truly enjoyed watching!
sRm ++ Whatever you do in west Texas don't buy land from Billy Land. We know some people who sold everything in New Jersey and got to west Texas for 20 scres and could not locate their tract. They ended up homeless in a motel. The original developer was Sunset Ranches who are honest. If you tell them when you are coming, they will show you the land you bought. If you don't like the place, they will let you trade it in the first 12 months for land you do like. Some of these acreage subdivisions are old and the property markers faded. There is not much worse than owning land; you are there and can't figure out where your land is.
Appreciate the tip. I'm in Texas (Houston Area) and haven't yet decided where I'm headed to - still in the early stages of planning things out. I'm considering west Texas, New Mexico, Arizona or maybe even Utah. One thing is certain - I'm headed somewhere just as quick as the plan comes together. Again, I appreciate the info - enjoy your weekend. Cheers, @@restoretheearth2829
I'm not sure people realize how labor intensive living off grid is. There's no reason a person couldn't live in a somewhat populated area using the basic concepts of off grid living. Think about the personal emotional strength it would take to live by, yet not be a part of a consumable society. Hang clothes to dry, use solar lights at night, cook on an outdoor stove and oven. So many off grid things can be done right where we stand. Begin the journey where you currently are. Work on getting debt free. Learn skills like preserving foods and heating cheaply, growing food. Try camping for a week or so without modern conveniences to see what your flexibility level is. There's no need to start big. Check out things first because if you do not like intensive work, you won't make it.
+Lynn Dutt yep,,,,i agree,,,,,i notice it is either Families,,,or a One Person situation,,,,,What I think,,,is the physical work,,,,canbe 'annoying',,,,, it kind of overdone,,,imo,,, )off the Grid,,,, TURN OFF ALL ELECTRICITY IN YOUR HOUSE FOR A DAY!,,, U WILL FEEL REAL UNCOMFORTABLE,,,,,,,,U HAVE TO EASE INTO IT,,,,,AND,,,YOU DON'T HAVE TO BE 400 MILES AWAY FROM A PLACE TO BUY MILK,,THAT LOCO (IMO),,,,
Yes,,, I hear ya,,,, you DO get used to those things,,,,(if it gets Easier,,(like 2 years,,,,and there a better way,,it good).....If it does not get Easier,,,,,a person would either'accept' it,,and do their best,,,,,or;,,they would tire of it,,,Btw,,,,,if anyone has a septic tank,,,,if there any way to stop the ODOR besides the 'dig and pump' hassle,,,,,, it is been out of balace,,, pls. write any tips,,,,,
Lynn,,,, I Was doing that,,,, Not sure Exactly how much and what type,,,,,, Is it Just The Powdered Yeast for Bread,,,and,, Well there is Two Kinds of Yeast,, QUICK YEAST,,, AND REGULAR YEAST......How Much Should be Put in Monthly,,,, I appreciate it. ...
I used regular yeast and proofed it in warm water before I put it in the toilets. (activated it) If you're having problems right now, I would do this every other day until the yeast does it's job, then faithfully once a month.
I'm from NYC too & I've also lived upstate NY & living this lifestyle is so desirable to me. I was thinking Wyoming but Texas is another possibility too. This is an outstanding little Doc. I truly appreciate it & I have so much respect for the man. I wish I could be friends with him.
As a landlord who has had to clean up after tenants leave it never ceases to amaze me how much crap we have. IT's made me rethink my environment and what I really do not need to be happy. Less is more!
The older I get, the more attractive this sort of thing gets. 50% of the time I want to sell my (unfinished) cabin in New Mexico, but every time I get there, I enjoy the privacy (10 acres) and the fact that that other neighbors haven't done anything on their lots, providing even more privacy i.e. think-time etc. The way our political climate is 'warming up', being out in a place like this could provide the sanity we need.
Sounds like you're on the right track angelia. For some sane or insane reason I've long liked School buses. I have one on my property, which could be a 'guest' accommodation and have a school van that I use as a bedroom in another place. I admit, compared to the rest of society - which is glued to a screen 24/7 - I'm probably nuts. But there are lessons to be learned, that cannot be learned on a screen. For one, simplifying life may make you richer than gadgets ever can. But I'm getting carried away and better shut up. Tell me YOUR story, if you feel like it.
WOW, bless your heart for such an amazing creativity you have here. We all have so much to learn here. This is all about creating your freedom off the Grid and self control. Thank you so much John for sharing your story. I totally applaud you!
Under ground it's always cool 60 to 65 degrees...you can dig a trench 4 to 5 feet down and 30 to 40 feet long...put in some 8 inch PVC pipe to go out and back...plum one high to collect the hot air in your living quarters...and the other down low and hook a CPU fan to circulate (suck) the air...or what ever works for you...the air will return cool to cold...even in the desert...great job man...
@@shanniworld8310 The desert has a lot of clay in the dirt which has hardened into an adobe layer.. When the summer monsoon thunderstorms hit the water doesn't soak in, it collects on the surface and causes what is called sheet flooding, Here in the S. Arizona desert, I've seen water 3 inches deep everywhere for a mile around after a big thunderstorm. An underground room would fill very quickly...maybe too quickly to get out alive.
Joe Walters, I think it's feasible for 1-3 people to live in 150 square feet, provided that everyone is out of that space a vast majority of the time. It'd be difficult, to be sure, but I think it's doable.
The American dream is NOT suppose to kill you to pay for for what you have,... but rather reward you for what you are doing now! Regardless of what we have been taught, the American dream is FREEDOM!, and freedom alone, not government or bills to make someone else rich.
Merelle Main, you are correct. The American Dream is Freedom - Liberty - not intrusive Government or Taxes. I would say Freedom was really taken away - or people gave up their Freedom/Liberty and therefore ours - by letting the Government do what it has been doing since 9/11 - I would say it has been getting bad since the 70's when the oil imbargo hit and the Government placed a limit on how much Gas could cost.
And that's what TH-cam is for. We can learn almost anything on TH-cam. We just have to want to do it then put the work into it & get it done. I've always wanted to learn how to build homes & learn plumbing, electrical things, even if it's just basic. These are great skills to have in life. I'm such a Brooklyn boy but this kind of life style is so desirable to me but I have to learn the skills first before taken on this endeavor. Anyway, saludos.
Good on you brother; family & friend ties is the only thing that's kept me from making a move such as this. I will most likely continue living vicariously through folks like you. God Speed brother.
We did the exact same thing -- seven years ago! We moved into a 10' x 12' shed (with a sleeping loft). Also had an outdoor shower until last year! Used 3 - 120' hoses for a water heater, had chickens, pooped in an outhouse, etc. My son and I built our house over the summer and fall and finally dried it out in late November. I worked online from the shed during the day and worked into the night on the house. We are on a ridge over the Mississippi River in Wisconsin, so we have very high winds that shredded our camp several times (our workshop was in a tent). Good luck John Wells! I wish you all the best!
@@TeriLaFaye ouch i enjoy my 357 i can shoot it all day . But i have no desire to even buy a 44mag . I hear that gun you have will melt foam ear plugs .
INDEED. I could live alone, and not really have a problem with it. Oh sure, the occasional visitor would be nice, but overall being alone wouldn't bother me.
I liked how he said it right after talking about his internet connection.... you could be feet away from someone, yet be 1000 miles away from them at the same time in your own lonely internet world.
Yes, but what is he going to do when he gets a bit older and starts having health problems? one extended trip to the hospital and everything he owns is gone before he gets back. Out there if he has a medical problem like a heart attack, stroke, bad injury, he'll be dead before he could even get an ambulance or get to medical care
@@HobbyOrganist That might be his point. Death is the most natural conclusion to life. Maybe he's just accepted fate and is living his days as he wishes.
We gave up everything we knew, and created a Market Garden in a new area, off grid living in a caravan and living off the land, anyone with a dream should just 'go for it!' we hope our own channel inspires others x
I truly understand your entire thought process to live just simple and off of the grid. You are a remarkable man with a creative mind and not afraid to step outside of the box, so to speak! I'm tired of living in a suburb and long to return to the country, where I came from originally. You are amazing!!
@Jabroney It is, he still updates his website that's linked in the video description if you bothered to actually read or do a nugget of research Troll.
I've watched this video twice now.. I lived in the middle of nowhere in northern california for 20 years with dialup until satellite became a thing, what a ripoff that was! The deciding factor in moving was being over an hour from town it was poor health and the fact that half the neighbors sold their homes to pot growers. Even though I was on the back side of 40 acres the smell of weed permeated our home every fall. When we started seeing asian people hiking up into our property and above it packing in supplies and a couple of shootings happened where people were stealing crops we decided enough was enough. We sold the place to growers who came in and bulldozed flat areas all over the mountainside and put in 100 planters, which is the same thing all the other neighbors had in their yards (Google Earth tells all!) So I left the desert and headed to the east coast to NC and found a happy acre just outside of town and a beautiful 120 year old home in great shape that needed all new plumbing and gas lines repaired.. 12' ceilings and more room than we know what to do with.. But the best part is the 50Mb cable and 5 people streaming movies and doing whatever they want anytime they want. A/C runs us an extra $200 a month and I'm working on putting wood stove inserts into two of the fireplaces. We get 2+ inches of rain every month of the year. I don't have to water my garden after the first month. We don't have to heat the house until the end of November and we plant the garden in March. I spent the first half of my life as a city kid, spent the 2nd half as a hermit.. Now I'm ready to try a little of both. We lucked out and have 4 old growth pecan trees and a black walnut. I've planted peaches as my first trees thus far and I'm looking forward to getting apples, figs, and maybe some oranges if I'm lucky and a dozen others I can't even think of right now. I've planted a strawberry patch, several blueberries, and over 100 asparagus.. Everything is green.. property tax is dirt cheap.. an acre is more land than I know what to do with.. I could plant 200 fruit trees here and still have room for all the veggies I want to grow.. I've never mowed so much grass in my life! I'm 5 minutes from everything and the only things I can't do anymore is walk around my yard naked and shoot my gun. In fact there are a lot more freedoms here than we had back in communist california. And everything is cheaper. From milk to gas to.. well.. liquor isn't cheaper lol vehicle registration is amazing. I can do any engine swap I want and no one cares. No emissions testing! Building codes are lax in my county. They basically don't care unless I'm adding on or building a new building. Gas required a permit for inspection and all the guy did was look at the pressure guage and see that it held so many psi for 15 mins. I've talked to one of my neighbors twice in 2 years, the other one I haven't even met. It took a little while to get used to sirens and the occasional hot rodder drift racing at 3am lol I almost feel more isolated here in the city than I did back on the mountain. Although it is really nice being 2 minutes from the local grocery store, gas station, like 7 fast food joints including two kinds of bbq, like a 10 minute walk. We mostly work because we want to. $200 from each person holds down the fort and covers the basic food staples. Anything else we want we just get it. People post free firewood every week year round and then come winter everyone is scrambling to buy it and the wood guys never answer phones or return calls or texts.. I used to make a living off cutting firewood, but we had to drive up into the mountains and hunt for it. Here most of it is already cut up and ready to load! City folk are too soft apparently. Back on the mountain every time I took a trip to town I put $80+ in fuel in the truck. Here I fill up once every 2-3 weeks. On the hill I paid $130 a month for satellite internet. Here I pay $50 for 10 times as much with no data cap. When I left California 2 years ago diesel was $4.49 a gallon, about half way across the country diesel was $1.57, and it was $1.79 when I landed in NC and has been hovering around $2-$2.50 since. idk what else to say.. I could go on for hours about how hard it is to live in the middle of nowhere, and compare the benefits to living in town. I mean this guy went to some crazy extremes.. From Gotham city taxes to mad max hermit.. You don't have to go that far. Play around with zillow and look for all the homes over $100 and under $10,000. Not only will you find land EVERYWHERE cheap, but you can find TONS of fixer upper cabins in town with enough land for anyone to get started planting trees and building a garden. Give that home some love, maybe a new roof, lots of paint, a custom kitchen.. Counters can be covered in epoxy like some Jackson Pollock painting or flat tile, or mosaic.. You can cover ANYTHING with food grade epoxy so your artistic talent is your only hindrance. A few years of love can turn a $10,000 cabin into a $50,000 retreat that will sell in a heartbeat when you're ready to move on to the next project! Do that a couple times and you can have anything you want. The sky is the limit. Live within your means. ALWAYS save money every paycheck. And go be where you want to be.
This guy is the real deal. And notice he's alone. He MIGHT be alone because he wants to be, but more likely is there are so few females (in America especially) who will live in such a sane and sustainable way. Sure, there are countless females that will let a fella put himself into an early grave paying for a 2800 sq. ft. house in NY, but few will work along side a fella living in an authentic way such as this. That's why this guy is commendable, because he did it anyway.
its a parent - child, male - female relationship. she ie the child will if he the parent will. and if she doesnt he can always visit. this guy would have a woman if he wanted. he can get one in the closest town. probably better if they live separate.
isit1984yet just want one of those ladies, and I see one such poster on here. If diamonds lined the streets, people wouldn't want them. The rare lady who Would like this kind of thing would be the only kind he'd want to have around, and there are more than you think. Look in the classifieds of Mother Earth News - several sites with lots of such wonderful ladies. I know that he doesn't have one around by choice. Sad when idiots have no idea what his life is like want to talk trash about what they do not know.
Okay that is nonsense. I am a woman and I am obsessed with these do it yourself videos, living off grid etc...It's my husband who wants no part of it! We wouldn't make it though anyway, not like this. I can't get him to mow the lawn let alone take care of all this even with me at his side which is how it should be. He just has no interest. He loves his creature comforts.
Inspirational??? Are you out of your mind? He's NOT living, he is just existing. No interaction with anything. He might as well blow his brains out. NO MAN IS AN ISLAND. Life is about interactions with people. This guy obviously has had some kind of a breakdown. But this ain't living and shouldn't be an inspiration for nobody. Geeze.
happiest ive ever been is when i lived out my car for a few weeks , its the only time ive felt free and no one could tell me what to do , id happily live there.
I live in an 18th floor apartment in the middle of a city and have peace, quiet, solitude, kinda hermit. Barely know, hear or see my neighbors. Just me and my plants. I'm happy and so grateful.
@C. Michael - C. Michael - Not true. I'm a nature lover and a city dweller. Needing to support himself or a family he would have to move to a town or city to find work. That's why beautiful towns around the world are abandoned, lack of work and opportunities, personal growth. One thing is "loneliness" and another "solitude."
The Problem Is City, County, State, Federal Codes, Laws, Etc, That Never End That Suck Up Everyone's Basic Life, Dreams Of True Freedom & Living In Peace!
I have a friend with a little desert land like this in Nevada that she would sell cheap. I have already homesteaded myself here in Washington state and love it. I have solar and composting toilets and have finished building a mortgage free log house. I grow organic foods and pretty much live off the land. This is the good life. I love to watch others that are doing it too. You are doing a great job showing what its like.
I am planning to make a life like this. I'm just not sure where? Do you have any suggestions? I was thinking Puerto Rico, Wyoming, Texas, maybe Washington State, Oregon perhaps?
I would suggest spending weeks or months during whatever is considered the worst season of the year in a place before buying land to homestead. So if you are interested in the Pacific Northwest, make sure that you are ok with the cold wet winter. If you are looking in the South East spend time outside in July and August when it's very hot and humid. You probably need to spend some time during both summer and winter if you are looking at semi desert areas. Eventually you will probably find the right place. Then you really need to do a lot of research about what you can grow and how to in the place you choose. Because it is very different from place to place
I love this guy's honesty, like "10 reasons not to use shipping containers". They are not the best starting point for many 'tiny home' projects. My buddy gets 20'ers delivered in Chicago for $3,200.00 as recently as 2019. He goes through brokers and local dealers, not close to the source.
I love this guy, what an outlook on life, the world needs more people like him, had I met him when I worked in midland/odessa I might just have kept that job but I couldn't stand it out there all I did was work and eat and sleep and living out there was expensive, everyone charges triple for rent and it just didn't make sense to pay for my place in odessa and my family's home in fort worth...but had I know this guy I would have stayed a little longer he seems like the type to lend you his wisdom
This is a great video, mini documentary... I relate to much of it. ~ lonely ~ is a mindset, I live isolated in the country, have limited contact with people. I am alone, but very rarely lonely. His conversational mentions about traffic and stoplights, certainly registers... bordering anxiety inducing. A key point, he mentions... is recognizing what we 'truly need' and to [be able to] live in minimalism, it is, can be so 'freeing', critical in our current world. Big city living has become ever a greater challenge, bordering unsustainable... (after 5 years) I can not imagine it.
I am watching this in 2020, wondering how much he has gotten done and wondering even more if he needs a friend to help him. I have a 26 foot Dodge Travco and I will help you out if you give me and my rig a place to home up.
If i can live off grid like that with at least a 40 to 50 min drive to town incase i need anything I'll be ok some people call it loneliness I call it peaceful lol
@@Jj-gi2uv people getting wise to the Missouri bliss ...filling up. #1 zip code for retired FBI CIA etc. Just sayin.. If we get fukked over by govt..greenhouses will quite possibly be the answer anyway. Look at the weather modification they are doing..flooding the Midwest right NOW. 2019
You don't have to do that extreme. I live 12 miles from town on a 10 acre plot of land with a small house and a big workshop. It's simple so taxes aren't too bad and as long as I'm gruff people avoid me so I can be lonely all I want. I love it. I do plan on adding a greenhouse with a fish tank. Homemade so it doesn't raise taxes much.
Sensible people understand that, Michael. I'm sure you've noticed in reading over the comments here that sensible people are few and far between in the comments here.
+Michael Shier so in America...... your income tax doesn't cover the schooling system???? So they tell you your property taxes covers things like that?? Is that about right?
matthew wood It varies from state to state. Where I live, property taxes and local income tax pays for the majority of the school budget. It's great if you live in an affluent area, but sucks if you're in a poor district. In the latter case, they can make up funding with federal and state grants, but those often fall short.
This man totally gets what being free is all about... totally. I agree with the sentiments stated here - where being rich does not equate to the amount of money or things you have. I'm presently stuck in a factory as far as work goes, but I turn 55 in a couple of months so I could split and start getting my pension early. Home is paid off.... taxes kinda low - but not this low - ha ha... I got to add another zero - but this video is so inspiring, it's got me even re-thinking my path in life. West Texas totally interests me. But... It think it would be bad to go in that direction, because [23.00] I got a bad feeling that within 10 years houses will be everywhere. But I really like what he's doing... Thanks for posting this video, it is very inspiring.............
The perceived need for huge living space and "material goods" is mostly smoke and mirrors. I certainly can appreciate this gentleman's perspective, though I think I would find Texas summer heat oppressive, it is a beautiful place. I spent some years on the Canadian prairies with some similar but cooler view. I now live in the Maritimes, retired and not off the grid though sometimes due to the lack of maintenance the power company seems not to care much. We keep a generator set and heat with wood so it doesn't matter very much, but we're low impact living. A garden gives us a lot of our food, some of it four legged. A wood lot and an elderly tractor keep wood in the shed. I gave up on chickens because the raccoons thought I was KFC so we buy eggs now. I am going to venture into solar electric because we have converted to mostly LED lighting and low current electronics. I would suggest maybe using one of the old fashioned wringer/washers for laundry because they are relatively low current and with a set of laundry tubs, very conserving of water. We have a water shortage most summers being on a ground water well, and I used that process till we got a tiny spin washer, but with a laundromat only a few miles away that often wins out for us.This was a very interesting video! Thanks!
+Frank Reeves Out there we enjoy coyotes, fox, raccoon, every four legged critter that wants the chickens and/or their eggs. Since everything else out there requires work the building of a covered chicken yard, (not coop) is a wise investment of time. The roof is required because all said animals can climb, and hawks fill the sky. If your time is YOURS, you can make the choices you want. I LIKE eggs. And chicken.John uses gas to cook most often, but just tree scraps and a stone rocket stove can cut that cost to zero. The heat that can be gotten from a rocket stove is incredible, especially considering how little fuel it uses. Literal twigs can make a pretty hot fire.(useful there because trees aren't abundant).
I might be an unconventional 19 year old, but this guy is living my dream. I'm sick of the world, the nasty people, the oppressive government and their high taxes that I've been paying since I started working at 16 so that politicians can get rich and lazy assholes can live on welfare. I have got to do what this guy is doing.
I doubt he has saved the money yet. But there is still some affordable land out west and in the South East. Plus even in other countries if he wants a better tax situation
+Gold Panda Those are more like it. I live in Denver. I can't say for the old folks being a problem.. The pot has a mixed opinion around here... Most are excited over the tax revenue it has brought in. Dispensaries are packed in the afternoons which is crazy. On the other hand, the state is getting tons of flack from surrounding states / non-supporting Counties, and because every Landlord has gotten a whiff of blood; the average rate for a 1Bd 1Ba, Studio is $800-$1,000/mo. It's Ludicrous.
Legend!!!!! Loving the phone booth and the swamp cooler.. also HAHAHAHAAHAHAAA love the stop light comment. 'I thought they were just christmas lights...you know, red,green and yellow!' hahahahaha love that!
I grew up in westTexas. You would have to go to this guy's place to really appreciate how remote Brewster County is. Make sure to map out the gas stations first,lol.
Experimental Fun This guy is fucking crazy. What if he needs an ambulance? What if he needs a doctor? What if he needs a policeman? We all need protection and help. How do you live like this fucking loser and not care? This fucking guy is a loon!
Why is he a loon? He doesn’t owe you? Lmao. What does he do if he needs a doctor?... What do you do? Before insurance, they came to you! For a tenth the cost! Get your own life you socialist! ... not ours!
David Lamotta what if he needs an ambulance?! That’s hilarious! I suppose he or someone else would call 911? The modern world has so many services and conveniences; you oughta try some civilization, dude.
My dad could do this but not me. West TX is so hot and dry and vaguely rains. Plus I like conveniences. I could deal with 10 acres of land near a small town. Each for their own...all about what makes one happy.😍
man you got a cool place, i live in N.C. USA, mountains, go out once a week to market, love living alone, don't need all the b.s and all the stuff that goes with it, simple is best for me.
There's literately nothing out there... I had a project out in Lubbock, TX for while. There's absolutely nothing in northwest Texas - it's arid and desolate. I'm fine with living off grid but I'd rather it be someplace like Alaska or whatever where you can at least hunt and fish.
@@altha-rf1et I'm fine with the cold. I can just dress up. The heat though? Can't get rid of it if you want to live and off grid primitive life. Even with this guy's little device I'm sure the house is like 85-90 degrees indoors.
@@johnvictorengland7703 There's plenty of Hunting to be had in Far-West Texas (where John lives) this isn't even remotely close to Lubbock. And you're also wrong about there being nothing out there. The Town of Terlingua is ~15-20 min from his Property which has some amenities like a General Store, Alpine is a little over 1 hour north of him and has everything you need with about ~6000 Population. Is he remote, yes, but not AS remote as one can get deep in Alaska.
Wouldn't it be great to have the courage, ability and money to do this?!? At 61 years of age and suddenly having mobility problems after a healthy and active life ,, this is not an option for me anymore unfortunately. Nice to see others stepping happily away from the ratrace and going for this kind of lifestyle! Kudos to you all for trying a different way of living like this gentleman is doing! Thanks for this video! Peace to all....⚘💜⚘
"places aren't lonely only people are lonely" I felt that can be surrounded by society and still be alone and yet can be by yourself and content with your time
Love it! " There are no lonely places, just lonely people". Although I live in the green section of Texas, property taxes are low, building codes are almost non existent, I live of the grid- I use the same solar panels as this guy. I started in small town Texas, grew up in the big cities, but dropped out long before this guy. Simple rule: 10% of the population are sociopaths. Stay away from them and life becomes beautiful. I'm a biologist/ biochemist and live on a hill filled with life. One criticism? This guy doesn't know acreage/ sq mile sizes.
128 sq ft bedroom plus outdoor shower, toilet, workshop, travel trailer, greenhouse, etc. When you add it all up, it's a lot of space for one guy. Looks like he'll soon have his 2800 sq ft again.
look all you know- it- all contractors # 1 if your in U.S you have building codes as of 2003 IBC,== IF YOU DON'T USE A FOUNDATION you may get away with that==,EVEN by base use all lic contractors to build-ed a starter house 24x40 it total finish cost in material and labor about $32,000 in most states across america,[[ no land ]] and if you project manage the job,, THIS MORON SPEND $4,600 each metal box that== $ 18.400 buck ,then spend on decking and that steel support and metal roofing system over head had cost him at less $10,000 ,without even started on finishing the base of inside ,Kit-Bathroom-Heating-Air
This place is mystical. There is something about this area of Texas that will mystified you. I got two lots there, one is 40 acres and the other is 6.5 acres. I will soon be moving out there. I only pay $29 in taxes a year for the 6.5 acres and $96 a year for the 40 acres. If you want simplicity, inexpensive, tranquility, friendliest people on earth (when you get to see them), you should give this place a look. Of course not very body like simplicity. I love Terlingua Texas. Thanks for sharing this video. Viva Terligua !!!!!
Friendliest people on Earth my ass, I had my truck breakdown out there one time and people driving by and throwing beer cans among other shit at me, after I got a temporary fix in and made it to the nearest town I then had a gun put my face when I tried to ask for directions.
Watching this almost 6 years later during COVID-19, one would have to think he has no problems with social distancing and is the envy of everyone right now.
I am an engineer and I liked this video and always had ideas of doing things similar to this. But some modern technology really is decent and when I buy my retirement home I won't go quite as far as this guy did
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John Wells passed away. On a Wednesday in January 2024. He was an inspiration to many of us that now live out here. I never got to meet him, but always wanted to thank him. We followed his beautiful videos, and love his heart. It's very sad he is gone. He was something else. Rest in peace John. ❤
Dang. He was the one that got me on the off-grid journey.
My wife and I have visited John Wells a number of times, and are happy to call him a friend.
We love his dry humor, and his ability to design and fabricate practically anything.
Also, his love and care for the local wildlife is uplifting.
Thanks for featuring him.
How far is it how far is he from Sierra Blanca?
and yet, I'd bet, he still gets an occasional call on that pay phone "We've been trying to reach you regarding your vehicle's warranty."
Or home security!
Verizon uses CDMA and it's better in the rural areas, so they say.
why?
That is the most irritating phone call I get almost every day. I ever run into the person who voiced that call, the choking will commence.
@@charlescheshier7546 Starting January 1, 2020, Verizon will no longer allow any CDMA (3G and 4G Non-HD Voice) 'Like-for-Like' device changes.
Great idea to put a roof over your roof in Texas like this, especially with no trees for shade. Brilliant in fact.
Can't get more tenderfoot than Manhattan, I love this guy, no more fancy restaurants, no more sirens, parking restrictions, NYPD and snobs, just clean living. He sounds happy to me.
Clean? It's an accumulation of junk!
@@rosebell8929 Junk? Junk would be a bunch of materials put to no use. This man uses everything he has, he builds genius things out of this "junk" as you put it. Real junk is all that commercial overpriced consumer crap everyone in big cities like to buy because they don't know how to do anything. This guy is a genius and city wage slaves are the suckers. This guy has it all figured out.
@@maskedmolereviews5715 I agree with you, most of what we value and work for is overpriced junk.
@kettlebelle1 hes a gun guy and likes small .gov-- sounds like he's good to go.
kettlebelle1,
Not only does he have what, ten guns, he’s self-sufficient.
It’s the ones that think living off grid is easy and then go running back to a town so they can have a flush toilet and turn on a faucet.
This guy is not only a simple genius, he’s hard working. He has to work every day in order to survive. He’s by no means a lefty.
Lefties love free stuff, there is nothing free where he lives, not if he wants to keep on living.
He said "Places aren't lonely , only people are lonely." I like that, it is an attitude, and attitude is a choice.
That's not necessarily true - not true for everyone. There are people who are still lonely despite having a healthy attitude. Don't kid yourself.
Yeah all the people who are depressed out there are just choosing to be depressed. Such wise words Carol thanks.
And there are people living in crowded cities who are lonely
trextrextrex have too much fluoride today? Again; it’s the attitude not the place. Fucking simps
I have always admired people who are like him.
I think now in my mid 50’s
I feel less like I want to be out of my home, And more that I like being alone.
Yet I don’t know that I wouldn’t go “stir crazy “ without interaction....
"If there's no one to smell ya, do ya really stink?"
This man is wise
Damn, ya beat me to it.
: )
People in big cities wash too much. I now only shower twice a week and my skin has stopped being dried out, flaky and itchy. every second day should suffice unless engaging in heavy exercise in a hot climate and of a certain ( puberty and young adult ) age. Also turn down the heat on the water and avoid heavily perfumed body washes!
yes
There's still me, I have a nose
There's me to smell myself
"Places aren't lonely, only people are lonely." - You're never lonely if you have yourself.
You are never alone if you have Jesus with you!
@@pbodymathis amen!
@@pbodymathis wher my reply sheeeeeeeeh delete by UT or something flatearth101
That was pretty deep. Been studying with your brother?
@@pbodymathis amen
In 2011 I got tired, I mean "tired", so I bought a one-way ticket to Costa Rica. I've been living here since then.
I had a condo in Miami, mortgage was $1,253, it was 995 sq ft of living space and zero property. With a view of nothing. My total monthly cost of living was about $2,200.
I now live in a house that's 700 sq ft. The property sits 4,000 sq meters or 43,000 sq ft. with a pool, fruit trees, a large gazebo-like space, which is larger than my house and has three bathrooms (one with a shower for the pool) and two bedrooms. I have a view of a volcano and the mountain range of Nicaragua. I forgot to mention my pool water is gravity feed from an underground spring and I'm also on a mountain.
So, it cost me nothing to fill it and my pool water is cleaner than the municipal water I used to pay for in Miami.
My rent is $150 a month
10 Mb internet is $40.
Monthly water is $5 to $10.
Energy bill between $15 and $20.
Food about $100.
Fuel for motorcycle about $40 to $100, depending on how many leisure rides I take.
My cost of living is about $400 a month. I'm 39 years old. The biggest issue was the fear of "change".
Riiiiiight. I think he'll manage just fine.
Wow...amazing...having the courage to overcome fear in such a huge way... Inspiring..has me thinking ;-)
I hope you were wearing your tie-dye shirt and round glasses while responding. What do I know? I'm just "stupid uniformed".... Whatever that means.
That's absolutely awesome. I am ready to make that move, but leaving my grown kids and grandchildren would kill me. Congratulations.
@Dana Brockway You are so dumb, it is just sad that people can become as ignorant as you. My god. Use your brain. Right now you are just dragging society down with your stupidity.
I often tell folks in a somewhat joking way that I'm looking for a job as a hermit in a cave. Only thing is I'm not joking. You have a very rich life Mr Wells. Its people around my age (57) and older taking the plunge that inspire and motivate me. My hats off to you. I'll get there eventually.
And finding a cave is hard ?
You are full of shit. If you really wanted to go you would have gone long time ago. Another "internet warrior" wishing he had guts to pursue his dreams.
@@Redzo79 And you are another "Internet Bully" hiding in your Mother's basement.
"places aren't lonely only people are" so true
Very wise comment he made there.
Well, I'm reminded of the Robert Redford comment in 3 Days Of The Condor, where he observes that all the photographs on her (Faye Dunaway) walls are empty of people.
He seems very excited for the company. I think the down side to this kind of living is the isolation. Not due to loneliness, but for mental health. having other humans to talk to, bounce thoughts off of, and just reach out to is essential and an integral part of being human. There are a lot of clever ideas here, however, and definitely the paired down lifestyle is very appealing.
@Evan Hodge hahahaha yeah.. no. Born and raised in the country with a strong dislike for the city. I’m not talking about millions of people brushing against you constantly and jammed into subways here.
This guy is a wonderful person I've met him twice while on a hunting trip. Can't believe i ran across this video
Were you in west texas??
not all old dudes with beards are the same guy
Kind of they are 😆
"People are lonely, not places". That is so true that one might even feel lonely attending a party with eighty other guests.
TRUTH exactly
You might feel lonely if you get a serious injury and there's no one around to help......
There's nothing more lonely than a loveless marriage
@@cy8685 Seriously!
NYC: You walk down a street with millions of people around you, but nobody cares about eachother and everyone's sad and angry
America needs a hard reset. All this stuff we are surrounded in but have no need of, yet basic needs are easily taken for granted. This dude is all set! I think he has real wealth and prosperity.
daniel madrid you're exactly right dude and this guy owns Forty Acres you're damn right he's wealthy how many of us on 40 acres of anything? I'm living on a fucking postage stamp-sized yard it's probably 1/16 of an acre and I paid way too much for it fuck that
it is exactly what i want myself though i do want to be able to power a lathe/milling machine. also self taught blacksmith, saddler and carpenter. i grew up jillarooing and sawmiling in australia
Toni Smith if you need 2 phase you'll have to get a generator out there. 3 phase? A more serious generator)
here in australia we have single phase which is 240 volt and 3 phase which is 415 though in 415 there are about half a dozen diferent amperages from 20 amp up to 50 amp. even in single phase there are 2 amperages being 10 and 15 amps respectively. for single phase all the difference is is heavier earthing and other wiring on the 15 amp circuit being heavier
Move this comment to the top
This story never gets old. I've seen this video several times. I'm envious, as I pay my mortgage.
Texas is a whole another country. I live in Az it is cheap too along with NM. We don't have winters.
Me too!
cobainzlady I have an off grid spot in the Ca desert. Ever hear of Bobtown?
Go live in a fridge you have plenty.
@@bvisel4558 try AZ or New Mexico as CA will suck your money dry even if you're off grid (taxes and things you cant be self reliant on)
Love it, love it! I moved out also. I lowered my cost to meet my means without worry. It really is the only way a person that is ill can continue. You have the dream. Work is what your slave mind craves. Breathing easy is what the soul craves.
breathing easy is what the soul craves......beautiful,poetic and so very true,thank you for this nikki x
1967R
Wait, what? No HOA writing you a $250 a day citation for "not winding up your garden hose?" How do you know how to BEHAVE?
Winter White exactly I think it funny how Hoa never can get rid of the nuisance behavior but cite you for petty stuff.
He doesn't, it's pronounced "foy-ā".
lol
You can get in trouble for that? Wow I guess I'll stay out in the country
Oh,I heard that!!!Its called USA.
The richest man is not the one who has the most but the one who needs the least.
hes got more stuff now then when he lived in NY and when he has a rattlesnake bite him or has a heart attack hes toast!
I'd argue he's closer to a doctor than he is in NYC, as he knows his neighbors and its easier to go 120mph into Alpine than it is wait for an ambulance in NYC. Above a comment mentions the "fear of change", that's what you sir are suffering from, respectfully.
ll4m - thats good👍
WEST TENNESSEE PREPPERS I'm with you! They work hard to keep us in debt and big pharma works hard to get us sick then dead. I absolutely want less stuff which means less work. I don't want to clean rooms that I barely use and, well, I'm just sick of it all. I want to do what you had the guts and common sense to do. I prep and that takes up the most room in my house. Kudos to you. I'm right behind you.
lakelure4me yes, and the super rich have been telling that to the masses for thousands of years
I watched this vid in early 2015 one of the many videos that helped me downsized my life not to the level he has but close saved so much money and enjoyed life more. I will be retiring later this year in 2020 at the age of 41. As I type this relaxing in Colombia south america the past 4 months I wish I could explain to people how well we have it in the U.S. the ability to save and retire so wealthy in other places.
The fact that he has a land line and internet is freaking awesome!
I simply love this place, and I could live the rest of my days happily way out like this too, and never think twice about it or look back. In fact - this video has inspired me to sell my business / home and follow suit. After all, not getting any younger - and I absolutely despise the headache of city life nowadays. Thanks for sharing this video - I truly enjoyed watching!
@Robert Pearce Cheers,
You can find land out that way really cheap just need to understand what you're getting yourself into before you fully commit
sRm ++ Whatever you do in west Texas don't buy land from Billy Land. We know some people who sold everything in New Jersey and got to west Texas for 20 scres and could not locate their tract. They ended up homeless in a motel.
The original developer was Sunset Ranches who are honest. If you tell them when you are coming, they will show you the land you bought. If you don't like the place, they will let you trade it in the first 12 months for land you do like.
Some of these acreage subdivisions are old and the property markers faded. There is not much worse than owning land; you are there and can't figure out where your land is.
Appreciate the tip. I'm in Texas (Houston Area) and haven't yet decided where I'm headed to - still in the early stages of planning things out. I'm considering west Texas, New Mexico, Arizona or maybe even Utah. One thing is certain - I'm headed somewhere just as quick as the plan comes together. Again, I appreciate the info - enjoy your weekend. Cheers, @@restoretheearth2829
Keep us updated
I'm not sure people realize how labor intensive living off grid is. There's no reason a person couldn't live in a somewhat populated area using the basic concepts of off grid living. Think about the personal emotional strength it would take to live by, yet not be a part of a consumable society. Hang clothes to dry, use solar lights at night, cook on an outdoor stove and oven. So many off grid things can be done right where we stand. Begin the journey where you currently are. Work on getting debt free. Learn skills like preserving foods and heating cheaply, growing food. Try camping for a week or so without modern conveniences to see what your flexibility level is. There's no need to start big. Check out things first because if you do not like intensive work, you won't make it.
+Lynn Dutt yep,,,,i agree,,,,,i notice it is either Families,,,or a One Person situation,,,,,What I think,,,is the physical work,,,,canbe 'annoying',,,,, it kind of overdone,,,imo,,, )off the Grid,,,, TURN OFF ALL ELECTRICITY IN YOUR HOUSE FOR A DAY!,,, U WILL FEEL REAL UNCOMFORTABLE,,,,,,,,U HAVE TO EASE INTO IT,,,,,AND,,,YOU DON'T HAVE TO BE 400 MILES AWAY FROM A PLACE TO BUY MILK,,THAT LOCO (IMO),,,,
Yes,,, I hear ya,,,, you DO get used to those things,,,,(if it gets Easier,,(like 2 years,,,,and there a better way,,it good).....If it does not get Easier,,,,,a person would either'accept' it,,and do their best,,,,,or;,,they would tire of it,,,Btw,,,,,if anyone has a septic tank,,,,if there any way to stop the ODOR besides the 'dig and pump' hassle,,,,,, it is been out of balace,,, pls. write any tips,,,,,
Linda do you put yeast in the toilets once a month?
Lynn,,,, I Was doing that,,,, Not sure Exactly how much and what type,,,,,, Is it Just The Powdered Yeast for Bread,,,and,, Well there is Two Kinds of Yeast,, QUICK YEAST,,, AND REGULAR YEAST......How Much Should be Put in Monthly,,,, I appreciate it. ...
I used regular yeast and proofed it in warm water before I put it in the toilets. (activated it) If you're having problems right now, I would do this every other day until the yeast does it's job, then faithfully once a month.
I'm from NYC too & I've also lived upstate NY & living this lifestyle is so desirable to me. I was thinking Wyoming but Texas is another possibility too. This is an outstanding little Doc. I truly appreciate it & I have so much respect for the man. I wish I could be friends with him.
As a landlord who has had to clean up after tenants leave it never ceases to amaze me how much crap we have. IT's made me rethink my environment and what I really do not need to be happy. Less is more!
The older I get, the more attractive this sort of thing gets. 50% of the time I want to sell my (unfinished) cabin in New Mexico, but every time I get there, I enjoy the privacy (10 acres) and the fact that that other neighbors haven't done anything on their lots, providing even more privacy i.e. think-time etc. The way our political climate is 'warming up', being out in a place like this could provide the sanity we need.
Sounds like you're on the right track angelia. For some sane or insane reason I've long liked School buses. I have one on my property, which could be a 'guest' accommodation and have a school van that I use as a bedroom in another place. I admit, compared to the rest of society - which is glued to a screen 24/7 - I'm probably nuts. But there are lessons to be learned, that cannot be learned on a screen. For one, simplifying life may make you richer than gadgets ever can. But I'm getting carried away and better shut up. Tell me YOUR story, if you feel like it.
At the latest by the time we're ready to occupy that little pine box we'll have learned to do with very little ; ) Take care.
SubtleKnowledge whereabouts is it? (town, not exact address lol)
Horse Springs NM
SubtleKnowledge go for it ! We moved to west of Ireland we have all we need contentment is wealth?
I bet the night sky is amazing!
its like static on tv, so many stars.
DirtyBanditable You can see some strange things at night,,,,,and they are not stars,,,,,,,
funny since the static on the tv is actually from cosmic microwave background, the thing that made the stars and us.
I've been to his house, it's the same sky like where you live.
i travel out there star gazing with my telescope, Its so Amazing :)
WOW, bless your heart for such an amazing creativity you have here. We all have so much to learn here. This is all about creating your freedom off the Grid and self control. Thank you so much John for sharing your story. I totally applaud you!
Under ground it's always cool 60 to 65 degrees...you can dig a trench 4 to 5 feet down and 30 to 40 feet long...put in some 8 inch PVC pipe to go out and back...plum one high to collect the hot air in your living quarters...and the other down low and hook a CPU fan to circulate (suck) the air...or what ever works for you...the air will return cool to cold...even in the desert...great job man...
That is what I was thinking. My dog likes to dig a hole and crawl in it. why is he above ground?
in that area, you'd have to go a little deeper, but yes, it's doable.
@@shanniworld8310 The desert has a lot of clay in the dirt which has hardened into an adobe layer.. When the summer monsoon thunderstorms hit the water doesn't soak in, it collects on the surface and causes what is called sheet flooding, Here in the S. Arizona desert, I've seen water 3 inches deep everywhere for a mile around after a big thunderstorm. An underground room would fill very quickly...maybe too quickly to get out alive.
Yes ,the Rameys did that on homesteader rescue. It worked.
Cool info. Ty
I can't get enough of this stuff. Innovative minds are so inspiring! So glad I subscribed to your channel a few years ago. Thank you for what you do!
I totally agree! I can't get enough of Kirsten's videos! I've been dreaming of a tiny house for some time now.
100% agree :)
I think I would need 150 square feet of space to survive
Joe Walters, I think it's feasible for 1-3 people to live in 150 square feet, provided that everyone is out of that space a vast majority of the time. It'd be difficult, to be sure, but I think it's doable.
Love how this guy did it
The American dream is NOT suppose to kill you to pay for for what you have,... but rather reward you for what you are doing now!
Regardless of what we have been taught, the American dream is FREEDOM!, and freedom alone, not government or bills to make someone else rich.
The American dream has been a dream since about 1999.
Merelle Main. Right on right on!👍👌👏👏👏👏
you mean 1980
American dream is fast becoming a big joke!!!
Merelle Main, you are correct. The American Dream is Freedom - Liberty - not intrusive
Government or Taxes. I would say Freedom was really taken away - or people gave up
their Freedom/Liberty and therefore ours - by letting the Government do what it has been
doing since 9/11 - I would say it has been getting bad since the 70's when the oil
imbargo hit and the Government placed a limit on how much Gas could cost.
I started watching by accident and found myself watching it 3 times and can see his ideas in my mind. Thank you for sharing your ideas.
This man is a genius. Takes real talent and know-how to accomplish all of this on your own.
And that's what TH-cam is for. We can learn almost anything on TH-cam. We just have to want to do it then put the work into it & get it done. I've always wanted to learn how to build homes & learn plumbing, electrical things, even if it's just basic. These are great skills to have in life. I'm such a Brooklyn boy but this kind of life style is so desirable to me but I have to learn the skills first before taken on this endeavor. Anyway, saludos.
Good on you brother; family & friend ties is the only thing that's kept me from making a move such as this. I will most likely continue living vicariously through folks like you. God Speed brother.
We did the exact same thing -- seven years ago! We moved into a 10' x 12' shed (with a sleeping loft). Also had an outdoor shower until last year! Used 3 - 120' hoses for a water heater, had chickens, pooped in an outhouse, etc. My son and I built our house over the summer and fall and finally dried it out in late November. I worked online from the shed during the day and worked into the night on the house. We are on a ridge over the Mississippi River in Wisconsin, so we have very high winds that shredded our camp several times (our workshop was in a tent). Good luck John Wells! I wish you all the best!
Less is more. He is self-reliant, not homeless, seems happy, kudos to him.
TERI You look so gorgeous!
Did i see a video of you shooting a 500 smith and wesson?
@@joehart6406 lol probably more than one
@@TeriLaFaye ouch i enjoy my 357 i can shoot it all day . But i have no desire to even buy a 44mag . I hear that gun you have will melt foam ear plugs .
'The place is not lonely, only people are lonely.' Brilliant.
John, your comment on "lonely" was spot on. There is a difference between being alone and being lonely.
INDEED. I could live alone, and not really have a problem with it. Oh sure, the occasional visitor would be nice, but overall being alone wouldn't bother me.
I liked how he said it right after talking about his internet connection.... you could be feet away from someone, yet be 1000 miles away from them at the same time in your own lonely internet world.
@@LookMeInTheStraps same thing the opposite, you could be 1000 miles away but still talk to eachother like you're 1 foot away
The loneliest Iv'e ever been in my life I was surrounded by people.
This guy is super bad ass. Love his superior motivation and do it yourself life view.
Yes, but what is he going to do when he gets a bit older and starts having health problems? one extended trip to the hospital and everything he owns is gone before he gets back. Out there if he has a medical problem like a heart attack, stroke, bad injury, he'll be dead before he could even get an ambulance or get to medical care
@@HobbyOrganist That might be his point. Death is the most natural conclusion to life. Maybe he's just accepted fate and is living his days as he wishes.
We gave up everything we knew, and created a Market Garden in a new area, off grid living in a caravan and living off the land, anyone with a dream should just 'go for it!' we hope our own channel inspires others x
I truly understand your entire thought process to live just simple and off of the grid. You are a remarkable man with a creative mind and not afraid to step outside of the box, so to speak! I'm tired of living in a suburb and long to return to the country, where I came from originally. You are amazing!!
Wow sounds like a love story in the making
@Jabroney It is, he still updates his website that's linked in the video description if you bothered to actually read or do a nugget of research Troll.
I've watched this video twice now.. I lived in the middle of nowhere in northern california for 20 years with dialup until satellite became a thing, what a ripoff that was! The deciding factor in moving was being over an hour from town it was poor health and the fact that half the neighbors sold their homes to pot growers. Even though I was on the back side of 40 acres the smell of weed permeated our home every fall. When we started seeing asian people hiking up into our property and above it packing in supplies and a couple of shootings happened where people were stealing crops we decided enough was enough. We sold the place to growers who came in and bulldozed flat areas all over the mountainside and put in 100 planters, which is the same thing all the other neighbors had in their yards (Google Earth tells all!)
So I left the desert and headed to the east coast to NC and found a happy acre just outside of town and a beautiful 120 year old home in great shape that needed all new plumbing and gas lines repaired.. 12' ceilings and more room than we know what to do with.. But the best part is the 50Mb cable and 5 people streaming movies and doing whatever they want anytime they want. A/C runs us an extra $200 a month and I'm working on putting wood stove inserts into two of the fireplaces. We get 2+ inches of rain every month of the year. I don't have to water my garden after the first month. We don't have to heat the house until the end of November and we plant the garden in March.
I spent the first half of my life as a city kid, spent the 2nd half as a hermit.. Now I'm ready to try a little of both. We lucked out and have 4 old growth pecan trees and a black walnut. I've planted peaches as my first trees thus far and I'm looking forward to getting apples, figs, and maybe some oranges if I'm lucky and a dozen others I can't even think of right now. I've planted a strawberry patch, several blueberries, and over 100 asparagus..
Everything is green.. property tax is dirt cheap.. an acre is more land than I know what to do with.. I could plant 200 fruit trees here and still have room for all the veggies I want to grow.. I've never mowed so much grass in my life! I'm 5 minutes from everything and the only things I can't do anymore is walk around my yard naked and shoot my gun. In fact there are a lot more freedoms here than we had back in communist california. And everything is cheaper. From milk to gas to.. well.. liquor isn't cheaper lol vehicle registration is amazing. I can do any engine swap I want and no one cares. No emissions testing! Building codes are lax in my county. They basically don't care unless I'm adding on or building a new building. Gas required a permit for inspection and all the guy did was look at the pressure guage and see that it held so many psi for 15 mins.
I've talked to one of my neighbors twice in 2 years, the other one I haven't even met. It took a little while to get used to sirens and the occasional hot rodder drift racing at 3am lol I almost feel more isolated here in the city than I did back on the mountain. Although it is really nice being 2 minutes from the local grocery store, gas station, like 7 fast food joints including two kinds of bbq, like a 10 minute walk.
We mostly work because we want to. $200 from each person holds down the fort and covers the basic food staples. Anything else we want we just get it. People post free firewood every week year round and then come winter everyone is scrambling to buy it and the wood guys never answer phones or return calls or texts.. I used to make a living off cutting firewood, but we had to drive up into the mountains and hunt for it. Here most of it is already cut up and ready to load! City folk are too soft apparently.
Back on the mountain every time I took a trip to town I put $80+ in fuel in the truck. Here I fill up once every 2-3 weeks. On the hill I paid $130 a month for satellite internet. Here I pay $50 for 10 times as much with no data cap. When I left California 2 years ago diesel was $4.49 a gallon, about half way across the country diesel was $1.57, and it was $1.79 when I landed in NC and has been hovering around $2-$2.50 since.
idk what else to say.. I could go on for hours about how hard it is to live in the middle of nowhere, and compare the benefits to living in town. I mean this guy went to some crazy extremes.. From Gotham city taxes to mad max hermit.. You don't have to go that far. Play around with zillow and look for all the homes over $100 and under $10,000. Not only will you find land EVERYWHERE cheap, but you can find TONS of fixer upper cabins in town with enough land for anyone to get started planting trees and building a garden. Give that home some love, maybe a new roof, lots of paint, a custom kitchen.. Counters can be covered in epoxy like some Jackson Pollock painting or flat tile, or mosaic.. You can cover ANYTHING with food grade epoxy so your artistic talent is your only hindrance. A few years of love can turn a $10,000 cabin into a $50,000 retreat that will sell in a heartbeat when you're ready to move on to the next project! Do that a couple times and you can have anything you want.
The sky is the limit. Live within your means. ALWAYS save money every paycheck. And go be where you want to be.
Thanks Big Dan!
Yep. Californians are the redheaded stepchildren of the west coast.
Buckleberry Ferry what a doucher
This is the best comment I have ever seen on a TH-cam video and worth the price of admission. You made my day. Thanks.
None of it was easy, and compared to living just outside a small city, I've learned that none of it was cheap.
This guy is the real deal. And notice he's alone. He MIGHT be alone because he wants to be, but more likely is there are so few females (in America especially) who will live in such a sane and sustainable way. Sure, there are countless females that will let a fella put himself into an early grave paying for a 2800 sq. ft. house in NY, but few will work along side a fella living in an authentic way such as this. That's why this guy is commendable, because he did it anyway.
isit1984yet Everything you said was pure CHURCH.
its a parent - child, male - female relationship.
she ie the child will if he the parent will. and if she doesnt he can always visit.
this guy would have a woman if he wanted. he can get one in the closest town. probably better if they live separate.
isit1984yet just want one of those ladies, and I see one such poster on here. If diamonds lined the streets, people wouldn't want them. The rare lady who Would like this kind of thing would be the only kind he'd want to have around, and there are more than you think. Look in the classifieds of Mother Earth News - several sites with lots of such wonderful ladies. I know that he doesn't have one around by choice. Sad when idiots have no idea what his life is like want to talk trash about what they do not know.
Careful, dont let google see your comment...you will be the next james damour!!
Okay that is nonsense. I am a woman and I am obsessed with these do it yourself videos, living off grid etc...It's my husband who wants no part of it! We wouldn't make it though anyway, not like this. I can't get him to mow the lawn let alone take care of all this even with me at his side which is how it should be. He just has no interest. He loves his creature comforts.
Used to live with my dad on a farm, 14 miles from nearest town, near Ft. Stockton. Actually been over to Alpine (cool town). Miss that farm.
This guy is very inspirational he gives you much to think about LIFE
@Jabroney lmfao damn!
Inspirational??? Are you out of your mind? He's NOT living, he is just existing. No interaction with anything. He might as well blow his brains out. NO MAN IS AN ISLAND. Life is about interactions with people. This guy obviously has had some kind of a breakdown. But this ain't living and shouldn't be an inspiration for nobody. Geeze.
happiest ive ever been is when i lived out my car for a few weeks , its the only time ive felt free and no one could tell me what to do , id happily live there.
This man has checked out of society and that’s the way he wants it. Quite innovative also.
Saidakine and checked IN to LIVING? Nice! Would be great for vacations too if you just need a break from the world systems.
Big middle finger.
@@markn3936 lol right i think this guys awsome i love his way and ideas he is cool
Probably one of the most satisfying video I've seen in a long time.
You could be in the middle of a city of millions, and still be lonely.
Likewise live in Tampa not the first friend here to go fishing, camping, hunting with
the tessellater the denser the lonelier
Yep a city can be even more lonely because of it's artificial nature.
I live in an 18th floor apartment in the middle of a city and have peace, quiet, solitude, kinda hermit. Barely know, hear or see my neighbors. Just me and my plants. I'm happy and so grateful.
@C. Michael - C. Michael - Not true. I'm a nature lover and a city dweller. Needing to support himself or a family he would have to move to a town or city to find work. That's why beautiful towns around the world are abandoned, lack of work and opportunities, personal growth. One thing is "loneliness" and another "solitude."
He can keep the desert! Give me a house like that up in the woods somewhere and I'd be golden!
Same here. Same house that he has but in the woods.
I know a couple mountain lakes in Colorado where I could live like that AND go trout fishing. Winters would be tough though.
The Problem Is City, County, State, Federal Codes, Laws, Etc, That Never End That Suck Up Everyone's Basic Life, Dreams Of True Freedom & Living In Peace!
I will take the city over the rural areas. They bore me and frankly stress me out living in the countryside.
I like the desert
I have a friend with a little desert land like this in Nevada that she would sell cheap. I have already homesteaded myself here in Washington state and love it. I have solar and composting toilets and have finished building a mortgage free log house. I grow organic foods and pretty much live off the land. This is the good life. I love to watch others that are doing it too. You are doing a great job showing what its like.
I am planning to make a life like this. I'm just not sure where? Do you have any suggestions? I was thinking Puerto Rico, Wyoming, Texas, maybe Washington State, Oregon perhaps?
I would suggest spending weeks or months during whatever is considered the worst season of the year in a place before buying land to homestead.
So if you are interested in the Pacific Northwest, make sure that you are ok with the cold wet winter. If you are looking in the South East spend time outside in July and August when it's very hot and humid. You probably need to spend some time during both summer and winter if you are looking at semi desert areas. Eventually you will probably find the right place. Then you really need to do a lot of research about what you can grow and how to in the place you choose. Because it is very different from place to place
Please do an update on this interesting guy. Loved to see what he has done with the place in the last 5 years.
places aren't lonely, only the people.. that is a true phrase.
Looks like I'm not the only one who LOVES this video. ✔
I could have watched an hour on this. What a cool guy!
yeah me too, takes cahones i will say that .
I love this guy's honesty, like "10 reasons not to use shipping containers". They are not the best starting point for many 'tiny home' projects. My buddy gets 20'ers delivered in Chicago for $3,200.00 as recently as 2019. He goes through brokers and local dealers, not close to the source.
Good set up! Over 15 years off grid in a hand built cabin and love the life.
solarcabin awesome! You tossin some sal out there?
Any advice for starting out?
I love this guy, what an outlook on life, the world needs more people like him, had I met him when I worked in midland/odessa I might just have kept that job but I couldn't stand it out there all I did was work and eat and sleep and living out there was expensive, everyone charges triple for rent and it just didn't make sense to pay for my place in odessa and my family's home in fort worth...but had I know this guy I would have stayed a little longer he seems like the type to lend you his wisdom
kudos to this guy for following his dream.. Mine would be a little greener and more social... less alone. Each to their own. Kudos.
a few nut and fruit trees,some chickens and vegie patches,perhaps?
@@markgillies1834 He is working on it. Did you see the greenhouse (startup)?
This is a great video, mini documentary... I relate to much of it. ~ lonely ~ is a mindset, I live isolated in the country, have limited contact with people. I am alone, but very rarely lonely. His conversational mentions about traffic and stoplights, certainly registers... bordering anxiety inducing. A key point, he mentions... is recognizing what we 'truly need' and to [be able to] live in minimalism, it is, can be so 'freeing', critical in our current world. Big city living has become ever a greater challenge, bordering unsustainable... (after 5 years) I can not imagine it.
I am watching this in 2020, wondering how much he has gotten done and wondering even more if he needs a friend to help him. I have a 26 foot Dodge Travco and I will help you out if you give me and my rig a place to home up.
If i can live off grid like that with at least a 40 to 50 min drive to town incase i need anything I'll be ok some people call it loneliness I call it peaceful lol
@@Jj-gi2uv people getting wise to the Missouri bliss ...filling up. #1 zip code for retired FBI CIA etc. Just sayin..
If we get fukked over by govt..greenhouses will quite possibly be the answer anyway. Look at the weather modification they are doing..flooding the Midwest right NOW. 2019
@@Jj-gi2uv Maybe he doesn't want or need to farm. He seems pretty happy where he's at.
@@Jj-gi2uv if hes lived there 12 years as of now (2019) it's liveable.
You don't have to do that extreme. I live 12 miles from town on a 10 acre plot of land with a small house and a big workshop. It's simple so taxes aren't too bad and as long as I'm gruff people avoid me so I can be lonely all I want. I love it. I do plan on adding a greenhouse with a fish tank.
Homemade so it doesn't raise taxes much.
@Jabroney The desert is beautiful. Food can be grown
OMG over $13k in property tax in NY! Love the interview. Not for me but love seeing someone living the way they want. Thanks
Edward Jones I pay 3.5k in prop tax, but my kid goes to the public schools and the city spends it wisely. Good police, good developments, etc.
Sensible people understand that, Michael. I'm sure you've noticed in reading over the comments here that sensible people are few and far between in the comments here.
+Michael Shier so in America...... your income tax doesn't cover the schooling system???? So they tell you your property taxes covers things like that?? Is that about right?
matthew wood It varies from state to state. Where I live, property taxes and local income tax pays for the majority of the school budget. It's great if you live in an affluent area, but sucks if you're in a poor district. In the latter case, they can make up funding with federal and state grants, but those often fall short.
This man totally gets what being free is all about... totally.
I agree with the sentiments stated here - where being rich does not equate to the amount of money or things you have.
I'm presently stuck in a factory as far as work goes, but I turn 55 in a couple of months so I could split and start getting my pension early.
Home is paid off.... taxes kinda low - but not this low - ha ha... I got to add another zero - but this video is so inspiring, it's got me even re-thinking my path in life.
West Texas totally interests me.
But... It think it would be bad to go in that direction, because [23.00] I got a bad feeling that within 10 years houses will be everywhere.
But I really like what he's doing...
Thanks for posting this video, it is very inspiring.............
The perceived need for huge living space and "material goods" is mostly smoke and mirrors. I certainly can appreciate this gentleman's perspective, though I think I would find Texas summer heat oppressive, it is a beautiful place. I spent some years on the Canadian prairies with some similar but cooler view. I now live in the Maritimes, retired and not off the grid though sometimes due to the lack of maintenance the power company seems not to care much. We keep a generator set and heat with wood so it doesn't matter very much, but we're low impact living. A garden gives us a lot of our food, some of it four legged. A wood lot and an elderly tractor keep wood in the shed. I gave up on chickens because the raccoons thought I was KFC so we buy eggs now. I am going to venture into solar electric because we have converted to mostly LED lighting and low current electronics. I would suggest maybe using one of the old fashioned wringer/washers for laundry because they are relatively low current and with a set of laundry tubs, very conserving of water. We have a water shortage most summers being on a ground water well, and I used that process till we got a tiny spin washer, but with a laundromat only a few miles away that often wins out for us.This was a very interesting video! Thanks!
+Frank Reeves
Out there we enjoy coyotes, fox, raccoon, every four legged critter that wants the chickens and/or their eggs. Since everything else out there requires work the building of a covered chicken yard, (not coop) is a wise investment of time. The roof is required because all said animals can climb, and hawks fill the sky. If your time is YOURS, you can make the choices you want. I LIKE eggs. And chicken.John uses gas to cook most often, but just tree scraps and a stone rocket stove can cut that cost to zero. The heat that can be gotten from a rocket stove is incredible, especially considering how little fuel it uses. Literal twigs can make a pretty hot fire.(useful there because trees aren't abundant).
I might be an unconventional 19 year old, but this guy is living my dream. I'm sick of the world, the nasty people, the oppressive government and their high taxes that I've been paying since I started working at 16 so that politicians can get rich and lazy assholes can live on welfare. I have got to do what this guy is doing.
So your 21 now did you do it? How is it going.
I doubt he has saved the money yet. But there is still some affordable land out west and in the South East. Plus even in other countries if he wants a better tax situation
electric, he's got internet, that's all that matters. sign me up.
uh, WATER?
That means google is still monitoring him.........
Internet is how the government and corporations control you. You really want to be free? Cut the cord and block the wireless.
@Zoot Cat Yes ... yes he does
Won't even last a day.
17:48- "If you have a big city and everyone is just pooping in thier front lawns,it could be a problem"
SanFran: Hold My Beer.
Beer went warm and smells like peee ? You though I was going drink it. ?
Us thout you was gon lerns Ingliszh.
epic!!
holy shit, 500 bucks for some land you can build anything on and still within dSL connection range! sign me up!
Garlicjr Made texas is nice. So glad i was born here!
Toby Holland Except for all that rain you're getting now :V Godspeed Houston.
That and pot has destroyed the housing market in Colorado.
+Gold Panda Those are more like it. I live in Denver. I can't say for the old folks being a problem.. The pot has a mixed opinion around here... Most are excited over the tax revenue it has brought in. Dispensaries are packed in the afternoons which is crazy. On the other hand, the state is getting tons of flack from surrounding states / non-supporting Counties, and because every Landlord has gotten a whiff of blood; the average rate for a 1Bd 1Ba, Studio is $800-$1,000/mo. It's Ludicrous.
+Garlicjr Made Go to ebay,you can buy your 10 acre west Texas "ranch"for $100 down.Easy payment plan!
Honest, interesting and fascinating.
I like that he openly talked about the hard things, too.
Thanks for the video.
Legend!!!!! Loving the phone booth and the swamp cooler..
also HAHAHAHAAHAHAAA love the stop light comment. 'I thought they were just christmas lights...you know, red,green and yellow!' hahahahaha love that!
I grew up in westTexas. You would have to go to this guy's place to really appreciate how remote Brewster County is. Make sure to map out the gas stations first,lol.
This guy is awesome, great place!
Experimental Fun This guy is fucking crazy. What if he needs an ambulance? What if he needs a doctor? What if he needs a policeman? We all need protection and help. How do you live like this fucking loser and not care? This fucking guy is a loon!
Why is he a loon? He doesn’t owe you? Lmao.
What does he do if he needs a doctor?...
What do you do?
Before insurance, they came to you! For a tenth the cost!
Get your own life you socialist! ... not ours!
David Lamotta what if he needs an ambulance?! That’s hilarious! I suppose he or someone else would call 911? The modern world has so many services and conveniences; you oughta try some civilization, dude.
fishhuntadventure I do. That's why I'm worried about him and those who follow his ideas.
David Lamotta we wouldn’t have a USA without “using his ideas” and btw they didn’t have ambulances then, or a phone to ride in on
John is quite the character. His place hasn't changed a whole lot since this was filmed! Great documentary of life in the last American frontier.
I love the Bike-O-Worsher. I didn't know that people have been building those for years. Awesome video, Kirsten! I love all of them!
Something tells me that when he found out a camera crew was coming out he hid the weed plants.
If he did that, he's got common sense, right?
Lol
🤣...Now did U have to say that...that's exactly why he's where he is...Pharma is legally much worst & life expectancy is a hell of a lot shorter!
If you smoke weed, and no one sees you smoking weed, are you really smoking weed?
@@lambdabear8494 glowing eyes & feeling high could mean, "you're in love"!😃i.e., if U didn't walk up & touch me, "IT WASN'T ME"!😜...
No building codes...I LOVE IT.
When I see people like this guy, I continue to have a hope in America's future.
My dad could do this but not me. West TX is so hot and dry and vaguely rains. Plus I like conveniences. I could deal with 10 acres of land near a small town.
Each for their own...all about what makes one happy.😍
I freaking love this guy! He needs his own channel.
man you got a cool place, i live in N.C. USA, mountains, go out once a week to market, love living alone, don't need all the b.s and all the stuff that goes with it, simple is best for me.
Buddy Phelps hi from paper town north Carolina (Canton)
Buddy Phelps
Buddy Phelps buddy pilkington. bud erskin
I met John on Stickam almost 10 years ago..... coolest guy!
Crazy how much we work to pay for “stuff”... Also, $13K for 100 acres is awesome!
There's literately nothing out there... I had a project out in Lubbock, TX for while. There's absolutely nothing in northwest Texas - it's arid and desolate. I'm fine with living off grid but I'd rather it be someplace like Alaska or whatever where you can at least hunt and fish.
@@johnvictorengland7703 Too cold up there could use that creek behind his tanks and make a fish pond and raise some fish
@@altha-rf1et I'm fine with the cold. I can just dress up. The heat though? Can't get rid of it if you want to live and off grid primitive life. Even with this guy's little device I'm sure the house is like 85-90 degrees indoors.
@@johnvictorengland7703 There's plenty of Hunting to be had in Far-West Texas (where John lives) this isn't even remotely close to Lubbock. And you're also wrong about there being nothing out there. The Town of Terlingua is ~15-20 min from his Property which has some amenities like a General Store, Alpine is a little over 1 hour north of him and has everything you need with about ~6000 Population. Is he remote, yes, but not AS remote as one can get deep in Alaska.
@@bookcadenb4584 You completely missed my point.
Yes, getting debt free is good. I sold a second property abroad to get debt free and although I am not in the middle of Texas it is a similar feeling.
If I had the start up money, I’d do this with no hesitation!
Same here
Wouldn't it be great to have the courage, ability and money to do this?!? At 61 years of age and suddenly having mobility problems after a healthy and active life ,, this is not an option for me anymore unfortunately. Nice to see others stepping happily away from the ratrace and going for this kind of lifestyle! Kudos to you all for trying a different way of living like this gentleman is doing! Thanks for this video! Peace to all....⚘💜⚘
Eat animals products. No sugar. Body naturally losses weight
Don't give up
I used to be a plumber and something I never understood is why people call a water heater a hot water heater. Why would you heat hot water?
Dude...
thats why youre a plumber
We've always called it a hot water tank
"places aren't lonely only people are lonely" I felt that can be surrounded by society and still be alone and yet can be by yourself and content with your time
This is the strangest twist to Sinatra's lyrics, "If I can make it there, I'll make it anywhere. It's up to you, New York, New York!”
Perseus Wong lmfao, best comment on the internet! Peace ✌
Lol😁😁😂😃
Love it! " There are no lonely places, just lonely people". Although I live in the green section of Texas, property taxes are low, building codes are almost non existent, I live of the grid- I use the same solar panels as this guy. I started in small town Texas, grew up in the big cities, but dropped out long before this guy. Simple rule: 10% of the population are sociopaths. Stay away from them and life becomes beautiful. I'm a biologist/ biochemist and live on a hill filled with life. One criticism? This guy doesn't know acreage/ sq mile sizes.
128 sq ft bedroom plus outdoor shower, toilet, workshop, travel trailer, greenhouse, etc. When you add it all up, it's a lot of space for one guy. Looks like he'll soon have his 2800 sq ft again.
maybe
I really respect this guy. I also live off grid, in a van down by the river.
That dude is living the dream :)
look all you know- it- all contractors # 1 if your in U.S you have building codes as of 2003 IBC,== IF YOU DON'T USE A FOUNDATION you may get away with that==,EVEN by base use all lic contractors to build-ed a starter house 24x40 it total finish cost in material and labor about $32,000 in most states across america,[[ no land ]] and if you project manage the job,, THIS MORON SPEND $4,600 each metal box that== $ 18.400 buck ,then spend on decking and that steel support and metal roofing system over head had cost him at less $10,000 ,without even started on finishing the base of inside ,Kit-Bathroom-Heating-Air
$3400 each which he admitted was way too much.
think he said 4,600 each
re read it
It aint my dream to live in a shack in the middle of nowhere, dude.
This place is mystical. There is something about this area of Texas that will mystified you. I got two lots there, one is 40 acres and the other is 6.5 acres. I will soon be moving out there. I only pay $29 in taxes a year for the 6.5 acres and $96 a year for the 40 acres. If you want simplicity, inexpensive, tranquility, friendliest people on earth (when you get to see them), you should give this place a look. Of course not very body like simplicity. I love Terlingua Texas. Thanks for sharing this video. Viva Terligua !!!!!
Friendliest people on Earth my ass, I had my truck breakdown out there one time and people driving by and throwing beer cans among other shit at me, after I got a temporary fix in and made it to the nearest town I then had a gun put my face when I tried to ask for directions.
Watching this almost 6 years later during COVID-19, one would have to think he has no problems with social distancing and is the envy of everyone right now.
But than that ice storm hit Texas and I kinda worry how he got through that
"places arent lonely, only people are lonely"....thats actually a mindblowing insight. I would LOVE it out there
I worked with john in NYC for a couple of years, he can build anything!
I still need to visit, maybe this fall!
can he build me a girlfriend?
If there's no one to smell you, do you really stink?
+Tim Scrivener Yes!
Tim Scrivener lol literally reading that as he was saying that .
Tim Scrivener yes, yes you do
he's got a point i'll tell you that much
Tim Scrivener tree in the forest bud haha
"when there is no one to smell you do you really stink?" *backs away* xD
I am an engineer and I liked this video and always had ideas of doing things similar to this. But some modern technology really is decent and when I buy my retirement home I won't go quite as far as this guy did