⚠️ ⚠️ ⚠️ I live in Eagle River, Alaska and we just lost a lady in Eagle River. She was walking with her husband and two dogs on December 23, 2023. Her dog (off leash) fell into the river after the ice broke while drinking from an open spot and the lady (Amanda Richmond Rogers) jumped in to try and save him. She still hasn't been found. PLEASE be careful. Alaska is no joke. So much can kill you if you aren't careful. And beware of the moose. They are everywhere!
She is an accident waiting to happen, has been for a while and the dog will pay the price by either getting injured, killed or left alone if something happens to her.
I loved your video. I am considering this lifestyle while homeschooling my teenager. I do hope you reported the damp wood so they do not let that happen again. You were in a dangerous situation. Freeze to death ,or possibly get attacked by wild animals. The note could have waited because many psychos use that tactic to lure you out. I will say your positive energy is amazing. I am glad you have a dog with you. Amazing protectors and companions. Stay safe out there!
Okkkaaayy. The note is really nice but I've seen local cops say that if you see a paper on your windshield at night or if you hear rattling (like a bottle and tire), do not go outside. It might be used to lure you out. Sure it can be paranoia but I'd rather be paranoid and safe. I'd check it when I'm in a well-lit/populated place.
yeah i was worried about that too. I wouldn't spend any more time outside in the dark than i needed to. or what if they somehow messed with her car so that she'd have to go to them for help.. maybe i watch too many horror movies
EXCELLENT advice.Glad you told that. Always be prepared, even where you do park, so you can make a fast exit and not get blocked in. I had an encounter lately with a truck stopped in my lane in the country with a drop off on one side, a hill and bushes on the other and where there was a rise in the road I couldn't see over. I saw he had a walkie talkie, sort of hiding it. He motioned me by but I expected him to check if anybody was coming, but he looked angry. Then, he let me see he had an AR-15 held pointed down, in his left hand. That was showing it to me. He was either illegally hunting in the road, or threatening me. I bolted past him dealing with the blind rise in the road and got out of there. For all I know, if I had been in a different type vehicle I might have found out what his intentions were.........
Plus eating food in car with the door gerry rigged with a bungee cord while eating is inviting grizzly or rape. Bears do not hibernate as people think. Bears find a place to bed down and slow their metabolism down but they do awaken when hungry, or they hear something. I'm from AK and so many bear stories. They do not fear people, dogs, cars, or yurts. They can break into your car with or without you inside. Then people leaving notes on car so far out is strange (generous but do you trust strangers nowadays)? and someone waking you at 2 am to get you to move? Hopefully you didn't get out your car to move to front driver seat with them watching you! You're posting your whereabouts and people stalk Internet to find easy targets. You should've had wood hauled on your back pack for a 2 day or on a sled. You also didn't open the damper to let smoke out or get started with oxygen, it's why it wouldn't start. Also you can get sudden lung problems like bronchitis from smoke inhalation which requires an inhaler and humidifier to heal lungs. You turned lungs into jerky which makes them vulnerable to other viruses. Walking in woods in the evening to reach a destiny is never good practice, as sun can drop sooner than you think or with a storm brewing makes it darker sooner, and you would've been lost or snow storm that covered that trail. Your dog is a distraction from you being alert and the dog is too playful and jumping instead of being alert for your safety. You're stopping to film snow instead of focused on safety. You jeopardize your own health and safety to entertain others. The lack of venting when cooking causes humility build up which can fry your wiring too. Good luck and success in all you do! I'm not your momma but my nerves are so stressed and on edge now from watching this and it's my first time watching you. Take care.
The damper on the wood stove was closed… you’re creating a fire, which requires oxygen, and a spot to exhaust the smoke. On a wood stove there is typically an inlet, under the door, that you pull out to regulate oxygen intake… and a damper on the exhaust pipe to regulate the flow of exhaust (if you have both intake and exhaust wide open you’ll just burn up your wood extremely fast and blow the heat right out the exhaust). By regulating the damper, you build up heat in the wood stove and allow the smoke to escape. I hate to say it, but you have a lot to learn! Most of the problems you’re facing are self-inflicted. This platform is wonderful for gaining knowledge, use it to your advantage and learn how to use the things that keep you alive.
100%. Her lack of knowledge could get her killed especially in Alaska. I was also worried for her small doggie walks in those freezing temps. There are points when the dog even looks concerned, especially when they were in the back with the cold air from the diesel heater.
I have to wonder if the damper was closed on the wood stove. The damper has to be open to allow air intake into the stove to provide oxygen for a fire, and to exhaust the smoke through the flue in the chimney. Also Maria, it's always a good idea to carry bear spray with you. You got through it though. Well done.
Definitely looks closed in the vid and position of it doesn’t change. And hence all the smoke inside… woweee, seemingly self-inflicted torment, like most of her vids.
Please consider not wearing headphones while you're walking through the wilderness (or a city, especially as a single female) like that, _especially_ after you just found a note warning you about bear activity in the area 🙏 Also, be careful with notes left on your windshield like that... predators of the human variety will leave a note as bait, so they can get you out of your vehicle and distracted.
Packing through snow? Fabricate a sled. Use a tarp, use a tent, use a blanket even. Carry/DRAG more weight/stuff. Also pack like you are going to get stuck and have to SURVIVE being out in that weather. Cause you just might have too.
New sub - I lived in Fairbanks for 12 years, and when I saw you walking down that trail at night, I was quaking. Girl, you seem totally capable and smart, but Alaska is not trifling. That bad feeling you had as you walked back to your vehicle was 100% your gut instinct saying nope. I’ve encountered moose along those trails and we had guns, firing a shot scared them off but if we hadn’t had anything, who knows what could’ve happened. Please be overly cautious 🙏🏻💖 Your pupper is such a sweetie!
@@ladellg267 people don’t realize how quick a missed can kill you, and they’re complete jerks- always having a giant chip on their shoulders. Black bears will *typically* leave you alone, unless they’re starving or have cubs, but that is grizzly territory as well and they will stalk you, and kill you. My father in law once had a grizzly stalk him from the other side of a railing pile he was gold panning in. He slowly moved toward his vehicle where he’d left his rifle. The bear countered his moves and they went in sort of a circle with the bear closing the gap really quickly. Thank God dad was able to reach the jeep before the bear reached him. But he was really, really scared. He said that bear was intent upon attacking. We’ve many stories from living in Alaska for over 20 years. 8 in southeastern, and 12 in the interior. I love Alaska, but I learned to fear and respect it as always ready to end you.
It's dangerous but probably less dangerous than freezing all night... I used to walk a trail to my cabin in Alaska all the time at night and sometimes I ran into moose but it was normal.
Ouch being a frequent hiker myself it gives me anxiety to see the amount of recklessness in this video 😅. Glad you’re safe and I think you had more luck than you realized during this trip because there were many things that could led to a different/bad outcome, which thankfully didn’t.
That area is known for its bear 🐻 activity (both brown and black bears). Bear attacks in winter are rare (but not unheard of). Always hike with bear spray “in hand” - not in a pocket, not in a backpack. The bear will be on you before you could even think abt unzipping your pack. This time of year I’d be more worried abt moose. The reason for pets to be on leash is also so they don’t go off trail and wrestle up wildlife and get stomped by a moose, or have an angry bear chase them as they run straight back to you! Save your back and use a little sled to haul your supplies! Stay safe!
@@AK907BEARLuckily the Eagle River area doesn’t see -40 temps like the interior. It’s also been quite warm at 25-35 above during the daytime this week.
@laurenrogers2333 and nobody has ever been attacked there in February by an awake bear, asshats. You have a better chance of being shot by an armed moose. Get off here Alaskan Karens.
Anytime you dry camp in Alaska like that, you should always take a sled with wood and camping gear like a sleeping pad, sleeping bag, blankets, food and water. Even when they say it’s fully supplied with wood, don’t trust it. The second I saw you with just a small pack, I had a bad feeling about it. So sorry that happened but hey, it’s a learning experience. You guys are all good and that’s most important. ❤
"And that's why we carry a buddy heater." Yes it is, such a relief to see you taking more care and being a bit more prepared for difficulties at least than when you started in Alaska.
Make sure you still carry a co2 detector, those do not shut off with low oxygen like they claim it does. Seen them fail many times. Like those ice fishermen for example who nearly died because of one of those heaters that didn't shut off when it should've. Good thing one of them noticed they was getting sleepy and shouldn't be tired.
@jonarse luckily they didn't wake up hungry and have to make the short walk to the SUPER WALMART down the road. JEEEEZUS. People act like she was in Siberia, naked, fighting a mountain lion.
You literally walked past a sign saying “pets must be on leash” whilst the dog was running off leash ahead. That could be dangerous for the dog if he falls into frozen water or other wild animals nearby…
My husband and dog got charged by a moose recently. If our dog was on a leash, they both would have been seriously injured or dead. A local man just got killed by a moose a week before they got charged. My husband tried to hide in a ditch and the moose chased our dog who runs much faster than my husband. Thus saving my husband's life. When my husband got home, our dog was waiting on our porch like a good boy. This trail looks like it's going to a rental camping yurt. So the likelihood is there is noone else on the trail, if it's like the other rental cabin/yurt places I stay in here in Alaska. If it's a public trail that lots of people walk on, then yes, most definitely keep your dog leashed. Or if you have a dog that chases wildlife or doesn't have good recall. Those leash rules are made to respect the wildlife and other humans, because a lot of dogs will chase and bark. Maybe her dog does chase and bark, but from the videos I've seen, it seems like it listens really well to her. If it's safer to not have my dog on a leash and it's not bothering anyone, then I will take the leash off my dog. If other people are around or it's safer to have a leash on my dog, I will put it back on. Common sense saves lives.
@@xArtieboyx13 I have my dog on a leash or a shock collar when I am at places where there is a need for it. Like in town, at the beach or around other people. Many of us moved to Alaska so we don't have to have our dogs on a leash all the time. There are no leash laws in the area where I live. There are also no dog parks. If I go into city limits the law is a leash OR good recall. I currently have one dog, and most days there are 5 dogs at my house hanging out. That is rural Alaska lifestyle. If that trail in the video is a public use trail then she should probably have a leash or good recall. It looks like a trail to a rental yurt and if so, in my experience there will not be anyone on that trail. Like I said in my prior post, if my dog was on a leash when my husband was charged by a moose both my husband and dog would be dead. Our dog doesn't chase moose like some dogs do, because we trained him not to. Common sense. I'd rather have alive husband and dog then dead ones. Do you live somewhere where dogs always have to be on leashes?
Carrying all your gear. In the snow. In the dark. Bears. For two miles. Every time I watch Ria's videos, the father in me is concerned for her safety. Plus knowing myself, I would inevitably forget something in the truck and have to go back and get it. Maybe more than once.
My heart goes out to you for taking such good care of Blue. He is always first with you, as he should be. You are a good example for how all of us should take of our animals. They depend on us and we owe it to them to do our very very best . God Bless you and I pray for Blue to overcome the cancer and you to have the strength to help him fight. I love your videos, I will never be able to travel to far away places so thank you! Although I do have my horses who carry me on many adventures all be it close to home.
@@bethanmiles5126 HE is a happy little fella, just like my dog. Reminds me so much of her. She nearly broke through my screen door when I was outside and the dog that charges at us as we walk by it's chain link yard, was on leash walking with it's owner. She thought it would come after me as usual, and had to save me. I had to get up and lean on the door to keep her from literally breaking the door frame to get out to me. We do have to carry protection just on walks because of dogs. A neighbor's dogs had me cornered against my chicken coop in the back yard,j lately, so I placed items all over so I could get to them fast. My dog is inside the house. They didn't bother me at all when she's with me. Then, they act well behaved and even friendly! She's, apparantl, and Alpha because ONE bark through the window would send the aggressive dog running home! So her dog would fight and she needs to be prepared to defend him, also. IT's dangerous out there.
Hi. I watched your channel today for the first time. I love your sense of adventure. I feel compelled to say something... please be armed. After years of camping in our local national forest, I thought my daughter and myself would be safe camping in there. But we weren't. A man showed up and set up camp a thousand feet from us and watched us through the scope on his rifle. Yes, he pointed a rifle at us. It was dark outside. My daughter (who was 10 at the time) saw what he was doing. We jumped in our car and hauled ass as fast as we could. No phone service for several miles, but finally I was able to call the sheriff. They went to check out the guy, but he was already gone...like 45 minutes and gone! I'll always believe he had evil on his mind. Now, I carry a pistol with me all the time. Be safe out there. There are so many demented evil people.
@MountainGyspy Holy shit! Your daughter has very good spatial awareness and sense to know that was a dangerous situation and also told you. Did you also see him do it? In the dark?? I can't even imagine how terrifying that was!
@aerynstormcrow I think you mean "educated" enough. She obviously wasn't aware and had not had that experience previously. Be kind instead of trying to make someone look bad just to be cruel or feel that you are "smart".
All I could think of with you walking that far in the dark in the woods, were bears. I lived on a logging island in Alaska in 1975 and no one would venture out after dark because the bears would come into the logging camp. I’m so glad you were safe.
Hi I admire you I wish I was you with my dogs but I'm wondering did you even fill up your gas tank or your diesel tank did you check all of your items and heaters and whatever you might have to keep you warm and safe before you thought of venturing out I always make sure I have a full tank of gas even while driving I do not let my tank go below half because you never know if you're going to get into a traffic jam and be stuck and then run out of gas and on top of that I don't know if I would want to venture out into the snow even though I did do it in my Jeep on freshly powdered snow and drove around for a while out in the wilderness by myself no one around if I broke down I would have been screwed I was very lucky but man do I wish I could be you right now in the wilderness I just love being out there free to do whatever I want free to see the beauty of the world and just free to go wherever I please but anyways good luck thanks smartly and be safe and have fun and live your life and thank you for sharing and by the way you and your dog are absolutely beautiful❤
My first inclination was to give you all sorts of advice. Primitive survival is something I've done a lot. But, then, I realized that I'm here sitting at home in front of my computer and you're out there having an adventure! I should be taking advice from you and I should get back out there! So, go have fun! Enjoy! Life is one big risk anyway and you are living it in a way that will allow you to go sliding into home plate with no regrets. Good for you and God speed!
Couldn’t agree more. I had a read through the comments and yes I agree you need to take precautions to keep safe. It’s your life and your living it to its fullest, the dogs LOVED, happy and living the dream along side mum. Be safe but never stop doing what makes you happy!
If you had the feeling, you were being watched on the walk back to your vehicle, chances are you were being watched! I hear hikers say this all the time. In most cases, it is a mountain lion. They say your hair stands up on your body & you know something is watching you. Thank God his angels helped you to safety!
Truth and experience teaches you to read your dogs reaction to certain animals. Mine that were much bigger would not go out if a cougar was in the area also would not go down certain trails if a bear was down there. Always have a dog you can read always.
That might be why but our woodstove smokes up our whole yurt like that too. We have tricks to help prevent it from being as smoky but there is a vent on the skylight, and she probably didn't know that. We have to open our vent every single time we open our woodstove door. And yes, we know how to use our damper.
@@leoross5777 Someone pointed out that the damper was closed originally but it was opened later in video. So apparently she did know how to open it. I'd say most people that have wood stoves wouldn't be able to start a fire and are your without smoking the whole place up because it's very different than any normal house. So people that say they know better actually no less than they think they do.
A sleeping bag rated for those temps and not "blankets" would have got you and your dog through the night. Also, would love to see you pack a firearm. You don't need one, until you need one. God bless, great and honest mechanics!
And more than a bungee to keep the door cracked and not easy access for evildoers. God forbid. I’m glad you have a dog with you for first alert system!
I didn't read through all 800+ comments. 😉 Hopefully someone already helped you with the stove. If not you should know that wood stoves can be temperamental, especially if pine (soft woods) are burned. When you get smoke coming back into the room, cabin, yurt, tent, whatever it usually is caused by a closed damper or blocked stove pipe. Spark arrestors are quick to clog with soot or creosote buildup. Take the spark arrestor off and make sure damper is open, then try again. Even wet wood will light if air is flowing. A cracked window can help initially to get the draft going up pipe. Clean arrestor then put back on while enjoying the warmth of the working stove. Good luck.
Could be lots of creosote in the chimney pipe, which causes smoke and terrible burning and can actually catch on fire. In the cold, with a long pipe, creosote buildup is more likely in the pipe.
A sled makes it easier. Thanks for showing where it is. Plan to kidnap my hubby for trip out there. Blue would have let you know if a bear was around. Look forward to the next adventure
I had second hand anxiety Watching you guys walk that freezing cold, long walk in the middle of the night. You are so brave! You’re such a good mamma to sweet Blue ❤❤
A more unprepared van lifer,I have never seen. 😮 I’m amazed that you and your dog weren’t overcome by the CO from the smoke. Yikes. So many mistakes, I don’t even know where to start.
I didn't think she did anything wrong and I live in an off grid yurt in Alaska. She just was met with some not unusual challenges and did a great job dealing with them.
@@SleepingTiger-vlog i was wondering, aren't those stoves built so that you have to open an air control flow hatch from the bottom of the stove (under the fire) and also from the chimney? I have lit up a lot of sauna stoves and fireplaces and they're all built like that in here, Finland. The smoke inside the yurt was probably a hint to open up the chimney hatch to let smoke out 😅
@@lamppuu1 I didn't think it was chimney damper since it didn't start smoking right away. It shows her working on the fire for awhile before it starts getting smoky. Our yurt used to have the side chimney like that, and it would smoke up our whole yurt super bad every time. We had to put newspaper up into the chimney first, to create a draw and help warm up the chimney. Cold chimney won't pull the smoke. This is not uncommon. We moved our woodstove to the center of the yurt because a straight up and down chimney works better, but we still get some smoke until the draw gets going. Trying to start wet wood can take several hours of effort and creates a ton of smoke. We still have to crack open the skylight every time we open the woodstove door. I don't think she knows that you can crack open the skylight to let out the smoke from the room. I've lived with only wood heat for most of my adult life in Alaska and I'm 52. I know how to work dampers. This predicament she's in used to happen to us more times than I can count. It's possible that she just didn't open the damper, but just as possible that it was wet wood, cold chimney, not enough kindling, and not knowing that she could crack the skylight to air out the room.
Hike in, wet firewood, hike out in the middle of the night, aggressive bear in the area, diesel heater not working..Girl, you are the bravest person I’ve ever seen! Please, you and Blue stay safe! ❤
I live in SOCAL and haven’t heard the crunch of snow in about 40 yrs! Love that sound. You are such a cool, adventuresome, strong, brave young woman!! Stay safe….looking forward to following your adventures!
Throughout this, I was so wishng I was there to help you. Im an old school prepper and survivalist and it hurt my heart watching you going through this. Please always be careful and always have backup on everything..... 2 is 1 and 1 is none......Ole military and survivalist motto. God Bless and Always Stay Safe.......
You are living my dream! Unfortunately, I am now 66 and disabled severely. But I am still camping! Granny Camping!! Anyway, stay strong, stay safe.Stay grounded, you're doing wonderful. Wonderful
Honey I'm 69 do it every day only place I live is my rv traveling and hiking broke my back neck both shoulders and elbows my right leg and left knee not all at once but had broke skull back and shoulder at once plus other injury, soft tissue but I still do it some days not so good but with God all things possible
The best thing out of everything that happened is that Po was still operational, the heater in Po was working, so thank God you weren't stranded with no heat at all. I am so thankful that you were able to make it to town and find someone that could fix it. One last thing to remember is that liquid carries electrical current, so any spilled liquid would carry current from one cable to another and cause shortages fried wiring/cables. The best part about all this is that you and Blue are safe and not stranded away from help. May God continue to Bless and Protect you always. And by the way, don't sell yourself short....................You are one heck of a COURAGEOUS, BRAVE, SMART, ADVENTUROUS, PERSEVERING, AND DETERMINED YOUNG LADY!!! You are probably one in 10 million that would have the courage to do what you are and have been doing!
Quick firestarter - toilet paper roll plus cotton balls and Vaseline, smear Vaseline on cotton balls stuff in roll and place in firewood light both ends and wala FIRE!
This episode is better than watching the Super Bowl. I admire your perseverance. I would be in an Air BnB so fast! I am always confident you will find a way and make the best decisions for you and Blue. Stay safe.
The thing about diesel heaters is that the fuel can turn to thick jell in the cold. Just when you need it most. Heat the diesel heater and fuel with the buddy heater and then try it again in an hour...
I was a trucker for 13 years, solo female, prayed just about every day. Made it safely through every difficulty. Of course praying doesn't mean you don't take personal responsibility. I was always as prepared as I knew how to be. Stay safe driver!
I’ve lived in Alaska almost my whole life. But I moved to Washington a few months ago and miss Alaska SOOOO MUCH, never wanted to leave. Love to see you enjoying Alaska. My heart is empty but this video made me feel full 💛
same, i moved to washington a few years back and got HOME SICK and moved back to alaska. but for very personal reasons i had to move back to washington so life would be easier for my family. still always wishing to go back to alaska, but life is easier here, just feels incomplete. hope you get to visit alaska again!@@Rachelle-r5h
If you really miss it, go back home🏡🗻. I moved to a new place, lasted 6 months, but I missed the beach and ocean every day. Haven't regretted coming back! Although the other place was Beautiful, I just didn't belong there.
@@amandamitchell8894 I can’t. As much as I want to, life is easier here than there 🥺I have family that would take care of my kids while both me and my spouse are working. In Alaska I wouldn’t have that. I’m glad you chose to move back to where you felt was right for you! ☺️
I feel so sorry for you and your little dog, so frustrating to have planned what seemed like such a wonderful adventure and trip to have so many problems pop up. I have to say, none of this van camping in the snow and freezing temps looks like one bit of fun to me. I love to watch those brave enough to venture out and do it, but my old bones just couldn't cut it. Be careful, get some bear spray and hope luck improves for you and Blue, she/he is so darling and sticks so close to you, which is so sweet.
You need to open a window or Crack door open a little to get the initial fire draft going . Also close the fireplace door tightly completely closed and just open fireplace vent a tiny bit at first until the flames get bigger and hotter to where you can hear the air being literally sucked in to fuel the oxygen starved fire. This will make it burn hotter faster, and thus, more wood will start burning, and fire will then get bigger at a faster pace. I remember the first time learning how to do this and how amazingly well it worked once you employ the right tweaks to create the optimal draft,flame ,vent adjustment ratio. It makes you feel like a powerful pro once you get it.
This is the best comment I've seen on here about the fire situation. But if the wood was wet/green it would have been extra hard. She might have failed regardless. We have to open the skylight vent every time we open our woodstove door. But we do have to keep the door slightly cracked and not all the way closed until the fire is burning hot, otherwise it goes out.
When Maria entered the yurt, the handle for the damper was turned down 6:45. When she was trying to start the fire 7:14 the handle was turned up. So maybe the damper was left open by the previous occupants and she closed it.
My yurt smokes up like that all the time even with the damper open. We have to open the skylight vent when starting the fire and use cardboard to get the flames big enough to start a draft up the chimney.
Keep damp wood on top of the stove, the warmth dries it out. But even damp lumber should be dry inside, if you know how to split and stack it. Not presuming, but have you had firecraft training?
It was probably a green tree that came down in the snow, and someone that didn't know better put it there. Let me presume. Your "Fire craft training" consist of watching outdoor boys on You Tube............ Nailed it didn't I?
@richardp6461 She couldn't keep the fire going. Is she mean enough to survive freezing cold without it? Let me guess, you're an RV park camper... Nailed it didn't I ? 😅😅
Glad to see you made it through that okay... But here's a little secret - almost every time you see a "bad bear in the area" sign, it usually REALLY MEANS that there's Sasquatch activity in the area. I have a few friends that work in different U.S. National Parks and that's the scuttlebutt that I get from them. These are people I've known for twenty years or more, so I don't discount what they tell me. Do you own a Personal Protection Device? If not, I'd heartily recommend that you look into obtaining a good sized revolver... .44 or bigger. They don't jam up like an automatic when you really need them. Of course NOBODY really wants to have to use one, but when there's no one around but you and the imminent threat, having one is better than not. Be safe on your future adventures... Cheers!
So much I could critique here. As a 2 time Iditarod finisher, & 43 years as an Alaskan. But hey we all make mistakes and things go wrong in cold weather at a higher rate. The colder it gets the more malfunction & things break. Being able to adapt and over come is critical. Outsiders are so obsessed with bears, like there is a bear behind every tree 😂Best of luck you have moxie!
Oh. My. Goodness. Every time I watch one of your videos, I think to myself that your parents must have nerves of steel!!! (I have children your age, and, nope, lol). But this one! Geesh, I had so much anxiety, and I think I passed out for a minute when you mentioned the bear 🥴 lol. And when you had to leave the door open while you slept!?! 😱 That was only slightly less terrifying to think about than your walking back to Poe through the frozen wilderness for 45 minutes in the dark! 🫣😬 I could never do what you do, and that’s part of the reason why I love your channel so much. I am very relieved you and Blue are okay 😊 Stay safe! ❤🙏🏻
I watch a few people that do vehicle living and mostly they have me wanting to shove a mattress in my Jeep and take off. Then you come along, keeping it real. Maybe I’ll just stay home! lol.
If you’re properly prepared and think ahead and think things all the way through, it’s not an issue (coming from an SUV lifer of over a year). She doesn’t always educate herself the way she should; I mean heck she says herself she can’t even cook at her age. She should have done FAR more research before heading to Alaska (as an Alaskan born and raised) like wildlife precautions, a block heater for her engine, how to start a fire in emergency situations (like with a ferro rod) and how to use/troubleshoot a wood stove. It’s incredible how far a small amount of knowledge will get you, and how far it can put you in the ground if you don’t have it.
As a woman seeing a note on my vehicle at night will most definitely wait until daylight 😭 trust issues on a thousand. Also, i gotta say you have a great attitude even with all that happening. Wish you an abundance of joy throughout your journey 🫶🏼
Been wondering, where is you sled? Snowshoes? Walking poles w/baskets. If it snows, post holing will drain your energy and can be dangerous! This is how life threatening adventures turn into search and rescue operations.
No matter what your vehicles is the most comfortable and am glad you made it safe through that darkness, you’re one positive lady, blue so lucky to have you
Knowledge and experience is key to survival in extreme conditions, fail to prepare prepare to fail. Enjoyed the vid all the same, gorgeous canine companion. Like n sub.
As an aviator when something goes wrong with the helicopter, it usually starts a chain reaction of other stuff going wrong. You did the right thing to remove yourself from the yurt situation and seek shelter in Poe. You were brave and got it done. Bravery is overcoming your fear and getting it done…it helps that God was protecting you. My pastor calls it a wall of fire protecting you. You are a great leader for Blue. Sorry for your bad luck but you overcame it. Looking forward to your next adventure!
glad that you and blue are safe the Yurt was not safe with all that smoke, happy that you managed to get the diesel heater fixed and hopefully the jackery soon
I think the consensus in all these comments is the following: 1. Do not walk or hike outside your camp at night. When hiking or exploring during the day, because that's the only time you will ever go outside your camp, leash your dog at all times unless you two are isolated from the wilderness. 2. License yourself, then purchase, train with, and carry a firearm at all times. 3. Keep all of your doors locked at all times unless you are standing within a couple of steps to your vehicle. This includes ventilation for your heater. Crack your windows or find another method for ventilation. Never crack open a door for this purpose.
Your learning life lessons and now realize Michigan winters don't hold a candle to Alaska's extremes. For future knowledge....You were surrounded with pine trees that all contain FAT WOOD and all have dead limbs that will burn anytime to start a fire. All ya have to do is push the lower branches of the tree aside and go in and get your good fire starter branches with the hatchet or just break them off. The Diesel heater intake is not your fault...they suck for under a vehicle. I fabricated my own that uses a 3 inch tube with dual K&N automotive air filters. Good Luck...God Bless ya both and keep ya safe.
I dont know Michigan can get pretty bad. Anchorage I hear is not too bad. I have also been told by soldiers who been to Fort Wainwright in near Fairbank, and Fort Drum in NY, that Fort Drum is actually comparable if not colder.
I was thinking the same thing as I was watching. Go outside and find some crispy spruce tree branches to use as kindling. I've dealt with this very situation hundreds of times in our yurt and it's rough. Especially with wet wood. It can take several hours to get the fire going.
iv never really had an issue with wet wood in the winter, snow doesnt make wood wet. its frozen, i think the issue here is you probably didn't open the damper on the wood stove which allows oxygen into the stove through the front, making the fire burn and the smoke exit through the top, usually crank open the damper until the fire is good and roaring with lots of coals and then you can leave it open just a crack while you sleep, it will make the wood burn for longer if the damper is only open a little bit.
I think she didn't check the damper on the flue, not the stove. Even with the woodstove doors open, the smoke was going back into the yurt rather than being sucked up into the chimney. Intake damper doesn't do much when the door is open, and an open door is more than enough to provide a strong draft. In a few shots (i.e. 6:44) you can see the flue damper handle, she only had to twist it.
I don't think it was the damper. It was opened later. Our woodstove does that in our yurt too. You got to get the flames hot enough to create a flow up the chimney, which is impossible with wet wood. We also have to open the vent on the skylight though to let the smoke out of the room and I don't think she knew about that.
I am surprised you didn't keep your dog on a leash close to you when going down during the night. He might had been attacked by a wolf or a bear. Scary stuff.
@@grapesoda24 We are very mindful of that. If they were tied up they would have a lot bigger chance of being killed. How could they get away?. We are a pack. When they bark I'm right out there with them to see what it is. Sometimes I roar and my dog thinks it's very impressive. 😆 Our dog diverted a moose that charged my husband and outran the moose so my husband could get home safely. Dog was waiting on the porch.
I cannot believe you crack your door open? How about a window? Raise your heater so the fumes go out the window! 😳 And I am shocked you didn’t have a sleeping bag with appropriate warmth!
I've burned a lot of wet/damp wood in my wood stove. It's not easy to get going or to keep going, but I have a couple tips. It looked like you had one larger piece of wood at an angle a bunch of tiny pieces around it the whole time. Unless you have dry wood that isn't gonna work. On the bottom I always put down two pieces of larger kindling parallel to each other that are high enough for me to insert paper or cardboard or fire starters between them. Then I lay down 3-4 more pieces of small kindling across those pieces, then 3-4 more on those the other way, etc., like cribbing. I try to make it with the two pieces on the bottom larger, then the next two layers small kindling, and the top 1-2 pieces the size of the one you had in there. I feed in the fire starter in the bottom and wood shavings like you had in the center. With the cribbing if one piece starts it spreads easily, and once it catches it will burn upward and start the larger pieces and you don't have to sit there feeding the fire larger and larger pieces. With damp wood you can't just put one big piece in there and keep putting in fire starters under it. The other thing, if the chimney is cold there's little draft. If you can light some paper or cardboard towards the back near the chimney it helps to warm it up and start the draft. Once your fire starter is going you should leave the door cracked and you should notice the air rushing through the door onto the fire/coals like someone blowing on it. If you just leave the door wide open there's little draft, and if you close the door on a fire barely going with wet wood there's usually not enough air and it will go out. Leave the door cracked until it takes off. Once you get a fire going, split a bunch of wood in various sizes and keep them on top of and around the stove to dry out, and cycle them around as they dry and you burn the pieces. I was also wondering if that chimney cap or chimney wasn't drafting because of creosote. Always a good idea at a place like that to check the smoke outside when you start the fire and make sure it's coming out good. If you tap the chimney pipe and hear what sounds like glass pieces falling that's creosote buildup, choking out the air flow. I think your problem with the fire was you didn't get a hot enough fire to warm up the chimney to create a draft, so the smoke wasn't being sucked up the chimney. With damp wood you also have to keep the fire stoked once it's burning. Soon as there is room for another piece you need to be on top of it or you'll be back goofing around getting it going again.
@@aerynstormcrow I didn't see a damper, and several people commented they didn't see one. Not all wood stoves have a damper. Some have a baffle system that doesn't need one. The shots she showed inside the stove looked like it was a newer type stove that may not have a damper. That's why I don't think that was the problem. Mine has an air control and damper on the front of the stove above the door, but my niece's stove doesn't have a damper at all.
But some stove pipes aren't installed correctly and restricted draw. It was.clear there was NO draw there. First thing I thought of is did a bird build a nest in that stove pipe or has it been cleaned ever? I only have a backboiler woodstove for heat and nothing else, the advice on how to build up under the log is spot on to get air flowing around the log
Blue looked so cute running ahead of her on the way. He kept running back to her like he was saying " mom, c'mon, hurry up I gotta get you there safe and sound Lol😂❤❤❤
I laughed out loud when you realized the diesel heater was broken and you can see in the background Blue humping the blanket 🤣 I love how our pets can be so blissfully unaware of serious situations because they trust us so much in taking care of them 💝
You actually were building the fire all wrong in the stove. I lived in the mountains for many years. A real hardcore mountain man showed me the trick! You have to make a log house of wood, inside the stove, with the entrance of the wood house facing you. It only requires 4 split pieces of good size wood (or 4 logs of limb wood). Pine is best because it ignites the easiest, but watch out for pops from the burning sap. Put 2 pieces of wood into the stove, side by side, spaced about 5 inches apart (about width of your fist). Take two more pieces and lay them cross-ways on top, creating a cross section. About 2" spacing between them. The fire starter goes in the center spacing (entrance) of the house and can be additionally fed by some kindling. Because of the containment created by the logs, the fire in the center will create a vacuum, drawing more air into the center of the house increasing the temperature of fire very fast which helps to dry and ignite the logs surrounding it (especially the cross sections on top). A few blows, some kindling if necessary, and the fire will get real real hot, enough to dry and ignite even some pretty damp or frozen wood. I've been able to start large whole log sizes of limb wood without splitting them with this method. I only used splitting to make wood small enough to put in the stove.
first video of yours that i've watched, and i appreciate your honesty and candidness for your experience with the yurt, along with everything else that happened. it must've been hard re-watching the footage, editing it, and posting it publicly.. but i appreciate your effort in showing the tough parts of truck camping. it's not all glamorous as it seems to be! hope you and blue continue staying safe.
I mean it was only 2 miles, investment in a better pack is probably more worth the money and storage space in the truck. Ideally one with a proper padded waist strap so the weight isn't all on the shoulders and back
I’m so glad you and blu are ok. I believe that old adage, what doesn’t kill you, makes you stronger. If we don’t make mistakes, we don’t learn. I too camp out in an old military Land Rover with my golden retriever. Looking toward to your next episode. 🇬🇧
OH MY GOSH GIRL!!!! When u headed back to ur Poe....IN THE DARK...with a KNIFE...I wanted to SCREAM...WHERE IS UR GUN...THERE R BEARS!!! THANK GOD U BOTH MADE IT SAFELY!! I did some HORRIBLY CRAZY THINGS when I was younger....it could have turned out SO BADLY...SO MANY TIMES....BUT FOR THE GRACE OF GOD I made it thru!!! U r TRULY PRECIOUS AND I AM SO THANKFUL TO GOD U R SAFE...BOTH OF U!!! THANK U FOR THE ADVENTURE!!
Her choice not to bring a 10mm pistol is lack of common sense in this realm. She had no clue as to the potential danger she could have faced. When in bear county, make sure you have at least a 10mm pistol.
@@rockaboatus588 I tell my kids to bring guns when they hike in Alaska, but I haven't carried once since I moved here in '75. Smarter to carry one, but bears out in February with that much snow if pretty unlikely. I do carry a seal bomb sometimes. There are bears, wolves, coyotes and moose all around my yurt and it just seems too awkward and even dangerous to carry a gun around all the time. I'm 52. I survived this long. If they get me well I've had a great life.
@sleepingtiger2096 Obviously, you can do as you wish, and I understand the point you've made. Fair enough. I would just caution you to remember these are wild animals and a series of good encounters hardly means they will always be that way.
You need to open the skylight for airflow with a yurt! My son lived in one in Mongolia for three years. He had a cat burgler come into the yurt via the skylight one night and it was a real cat! He said he was located in the middle of the Gobi Desert so he had no idea where a cat came from.
Just a little FYI I would not let my dog run wild. You don’t know what’s around the next tree the next corner if there’s a bear there a wolf, I wouldn’t want to see anything happen to your dog.
Just curious why her dog would be more safe if it was on a leash when the bear or wolf came? Seems to me it would be more safe without the leash as long as it has good recall which it appears it has. My husband got charged by a moose the other day and he ran off the side of the road and hid behind something. Fortunately the moose chased our dog who is much faster than my husband and our dog was sitting by our yurt when my husband got home after them. Moose was gone.
@@SleepingTiger-vlogjust people who don't know what they are talking about trying to be relevant by advising others in comment sections behind a keyboard and screen.
You are one brave lady adventuring out in the wilderness… Take care of yourself and Blue. He is one georgous puppy 🐶🐾🐾Safe Travels and stay strong ✝️🙏🏼🛐
Wow, Peg, maybe invite her for a lesb. love in the wilderness, in N Dakota. PEG! You gotta job yet? I got some friends North of Ye border that might be able to get you some work. You available? Manitoba. We gota job for ya hon!!! Can you dance?
Looks like her dog is a purebred Australian Shepherd. They are second in intelligence only to a border collie and that is an extremely close second. They are the BEST dogs ever and are double coated, so they do excellent in the cold and most hot climates. Aussies are beyond super loyal so she's got the best breed. My first video of hers to watch and I loved it. Things I loved...her fearlessness, her good decision to walk back with a lighter pack. Her instant decision to get her items repaired and watching the repairs as they were done so she learned valuable knowledge. Bonus... I loved her flexibility to situations and SHINY hair to boot. You go girl! p.s. I own 3 purebred Aussies too! I'm 64 years old and wish I could do what you are doing, but I wish you all the best! Come to NM in October for the Balloon fiesta in Albuquerque.
Another thing that can happen is if you run your heater on low all night , it may soot up inside. Doing this too many times will cause the heater to fail in starting up. You should turn it to high for 15 minutes to burn off the soot before shutting it off . Take care and be safe.
That's how people get killed. A series of three negative events occur, and each mishap in itself would not cause harm, but three close together can be catastrophic or fatal.
It looks like your Yurt Tent was not prep right at all. There is no excuse. I get my money back. We rented a cabin & all the wood was dry on a covered porch. And they had a dry room stock with fire wood. No smoke, it was a nice set-up.
Yes agree. That fire looked like the chimney was blocked or the damper was closed. Should be instructions on using it but should not get any smoke in the room regardless of the wood.
⚠️ ⚠️ ⚠️ I live in Eagle River, Alaska and we just lost a lady in Eagle River. She was walking with her husband and two dogs on December 23, 2023. Her dog (off leash) fell into the river after the ice broke while drinking from an open spot and the lady (Amanda Richmond Rogers) jumped in to try and save him. She still hasn't been found. PLEASE be careful. Alaska is no joke. So much can kill you if you aren't careful. And beware of the moose. They are everywhere!
Did the dog survive?
She is an accident waiting to happen, has been for a while and the dog will pay the price by either getting injured, killed or left alone if something happens to her.
I loved your video. I am considering this lifestyle while homeschooling my teenager. I do hope you reported the damp wood so they do not let that happen again. You were in a dangerous situation. Freeze to death ,or possibly get attacked by wild animals.
The note could have waited because many psychos use that tactic to lure you out.
I will say your positive energy is amazing. I am glad you have a dog with you. Amazing protectors and companions. Stay safe out there!
@@nunya2954 no.
Falling through lake ice... annoying. Falling through iced over river... death sentence.
So sad
Okkkaaayy. The note is really nice but I've seen local cops say that if you see a paper on your windshield at night or if you hear rattling (like a bottle and tire), do not go outside. It might be used to lure you out. Sure it can be paranoia but I'd rather be paranoid and safe. I'd check it when I'm in a well-lit/populated place.
yeah i was worried about that too. I wouldn't spend any more time outside in the dark than i needed to. or what if they somehow messed with her car so that she'd have to go to them for help.. maybe i watch too many horror movies
Nope, car notes immediately raises suspicion for me! Same with random flat tires in a parking lot. Somebody might be watching.
Especially in the Alaska. Not alot of women to go around.
EXCELLENT advice.Glad you told that. Always be prepared, even where you do park, so you can make a fast exit and not get blocked in. I had an encounter lately with a truck stopped in my lane in the country with a drop off on one side, a hill and bushes on the other and where there was a rise in the road I couldn't see over. I saw he had a walkie talkie, sort of hiding it. He motioned me by but I expected him to check if anybody was coming, but he looked angry. Then, he let me see he had an AR-15 held pointed down, in his left hand. That was showing it to me. He was either illegally hunting in the road, or threatening me. I bolted past him dealing with the blind rise in the road and got out of there. For all I know, if I had been in a different type vehicle I might have found out what his intentions were.........
@@anjou6497 you need to stop spreading your weakness and never go outside, clown.
You see more than one posting about an aggressive bear in the area and you're wandering around in noise canceling headphones is straight up suicidal.
Plus eating food in car with the door gerry rigged with a bungee cord while eating is inviting grizzly or rape. Bears do not hibernate as people think. Bears find a place to bed down and slow their metabolism down but they do awaken when hungry, or they hear something. I'm from AK and so many bear stories. They do not fear people, dogs, cars, or yurts. They can break into your car with or without you inside. Then people leaving notes on car so far out is strange (generous but do you trust strangers nowadays)? and someone waking you at 2 am to get you to move? Hopefully you didn't get out your car to move to front driver seat with them watching you! You're posting your whereabouts and people stalk Internet to find easy targets. You should've had wood hauled on your back pack for a 2 day or on a sled. You also didn't open the damper to let smoke out or get started with oxygen, it's why it wouldn't start. Also you can get sudden lung problems like bronchitis from smoke inhalation which requires an inhaler and humidifier to heal lungs. You turned lungs into jerky which makes them vulnerable to other viruses. Walking in woods in the evening to reach a destiny is never good practice, as sun can drop sooner than you think or with a storm brewing makes it darker sooner, and you would've been lost or snow storm that covered that trail. Your dog is a distraction from you being alert and the dog is too playful and jumping instead of being alert for your safety. You're stopping to film snow instead of focused on safety. You jeopardize your own health and safety to entertain others. The lack of venting when cooking causes humility build up which can fry your wiring too. Good luck and success in all you do! I'm not your momma but my nerves are so stressed and on edge now from watching this and it's my first time watching you. Take care.
Hardcore people don’t fear bears. But i just hope she’s not on her monthly cycle lol.
@@paulwoodford1984I'm sure she's unaware of this fact, it's just makes the situation worse.
@@paulwoodford1984you mean morons
@@cookiekirkland8689 It’s only believed to be true for polar bears but also let’s be real, the studies are not super strong.
The damper on the wood stove was closed… you’re creating a fire, which requires oxygen, and a spot to exhaust the smoke. On a wood stove there is typically an inlet, under the door, that you pull out to regulate oxygen intake… and a damper on the exhaust pipe to regulate the flow of exhaust (if you have both intake and exhaust wide open you’ll just burn up your wood extremely fast and blow the heat right out the exhaust). By regulating the damper, you build up heat in the wood stove and allow the smoke to escape.
I hate to say it, but you have a lot to learn! Most of the problems you’re facing are self-inflicted. This platform is wonderful for gaining knowledge, use it to your advantage and learn how to use the things that keep you alive.
That’s exactly what I realized to, right away
Carbon monoxide danger too
exactly
I always closed the damper to the fireplace so bats or birds wouldn’t fly in, during non use of the fireplace. Open it when starting a fire.
100%. Her lack of knowledge could get her killed especially in Alaska. I was also worried for her small doggie walks in those freezing temps. There are points when the dog even looks concerned, especially when they were in the back with the cold air from the diesel heater.
I have to wonder if the damper was closed on the wood stove. The damper has to be open to allow air intake into the stove to provide oxygen for a fire, and to exhaust the smoke through the flue in the chimney.
Also Maria, it's always a good idea to carry bear spray with you.
You got through it though. Well done.
bears are sleeping, numbnutts.
,,,,,,my thoughts exactly
Definitely looks closed in the vid and position of it doesn’t change. And hence all the smoke inside… woweee, seemingly self-inflicted torment, like most of her vids.
This was my thought as well. Damp wood wouldn't cause so much smoke inside and it would also explain why the fire didn't start.
Really you don't know how to use a wood stove?
Please consider not wearing headphones while you're walking through the wilderness (or a city, especially as a single female) like that, _especially_ after you just found a note warning you about bear activity in the area 🙏
Also, be careful with notes left on your windshield like that... predators of the human variety will leave a note as bait, so they can get you out of your vehicle and distracted.
she needs to travel with some pitbulls lol
Well it's been made clear with the damper issue that she's a little short of brain cells
@@grapesoda24and a Rouger and a shorty lol
Com certeza uns pits ou rotwaler@@grapesoda24
A bear isn't going to know she is wearing headphones. 2nd she was getting into her car so the "predator " could have grabbed her before.
Packing through snow?
Fabricate a sled.
Use a tarp, use a tent, use a blanket even.
Carry/DRAG more weight/stuff.
Also pack like you are going to get stuck and have to SURVIVE being out in that weather.
Cause you just might have too.
New sub - I lived in Fairbanks for 12 years, and when I saw you walking down that trail at night, I was quaking. Girl, you seem totally capable and smart, but Alaska is not trifling. That bad feeling you had as you walked back to your vehicle was 100% your gut instinct saying nope. I’ve encountered moose along those trails and we had guns, firing a shot scared them off but if we hadn’t had anything, who knows what could’ve happened. Please be overly cautious 🙏🏻💖
Your pupper is such a sweetie!
Yes that was concerning to just watch. Moose didn't occur to me but bears definitely especially with a dog at night.
@@ladellg267 people don’t realize how quick a missed can kill you, and they’re complete jerks- always having a giant chip on their shoulders. Black bears will *typically* leave you alone, unless they’re starving or have cubs, but that is grizzly territory as well and they will stalk you, and kill you. My father in law once had a grizzly stalk him from the other side of a railing pile he was gold panning in. He slowly moved toward his vehicle where he’d left his rifle. The bear countered his moves and they went in sort of a circle with the bear closing the gap really quickly. Thank God dad was able to reach the jeep before the bear reached him. But he was really, really scared. He said that bear was intent upon attacking. We’ve many stories from living in Alaska for over 20 years. 8 in southeastern, and 12 in the interior. I love Alaska, but I learned to fear and respect it as always ready to end you.
It's dangerous but probably less dangerous than freezing all night... I used to walk a trail to my cabin in Alaska all the time at night and sometimes I ran into moose but it was normal.
Ouch being a frequent hiker myself it gives me anxiety to see the amount of recklessness in this video 😅. Glad you’re safe and I think you had more luck than you realized during this trip because there were many things that could led to a different/bad outcome, which thankfully didn’t.
That area is known for its bear 🐻 activity (both brown and black bears). Bear attacks in winter are rare (but not unheard of). Always hike with bear spray “in hand” - not in a pocket, not in a backpack. The bear will be on you before you could even think abt unzipping your pack. This time of year I’d be more worried abt moose. The reason for pets to be on leash is also so they don’t go off trail and wrestle up wildlife and get stomped by a moose, or have an angry bear chase them as they run straight back to you! Save your back and use a little sled to haul your supplies! Stay safe!
No bears not after -40 and colder weather
Spray AND a candy bar.... so you can toss it far away and maybe buy yourself a few steps headstart ! 🙃😉😇
Name one time a winter bear attack occurred at the eagle river nature center, you numbnuts.
@@AK907BEARLuckily the Eagle River area doesn’t see -40 temps like the interior. It’s also been quite warm at 25-35 above during the daytime this week.
@laurenrogers2333 and nobody has ever been attacked there in February by an awake bear, asshats. You have a better chance of being shot by an armed moose. Get off here Alaskan Karens.
Anytime you dry camp in Alaska like that, you should always take a sled with wood and camping gear like a sleeping pad, sleeping bag, blankets, food and water. Even when they say it’s fully supplied with wood, don’t trust it. The second I saw you with just a small pack, I had a bad feeling about it. So sorry that happened but hey, it’s a learning experience. You guys are all good and that’s most important. ❤
A winter bear is VERY aggressive. Usually there's something wrong or something has happened to wake them and they're HUNGRY! You are very lucky.
"And that's why we carry a buddy heater." Yes it is, such a relief to see you taking more care and being a bit more prepared for difficulties at least than when you started in Alaska.
Make sure you still carry a co2 detector, those do not shut off with low oxygen like they claim it does. Seen them fail many times. Like those ice fishermen for example who nearly died because of one of those heaters that didn't shut off when it should've. Good thing one of them noticed they was getting sleepy and shouldn't be tired.
you think she's prepared? wow.
I was even scared for you. I'll keep you and Blue in prayer. .
Have a blessed, safe day.
She is within 10 miles of a Walmart Super Center. @@liamjohnson2474
Choice of footwear in those cold temperatures seems dangerous to say the least
Yurt, fail. Diesel heater, fail. Jackery, fail. Not being eaten by a bear, huge win.
Yeah, and a shark didn't attack her either.
@@bobjacksob the night was 100% gator free.
Hee hee hee 😂
Not knowing how to use a tent heater is stupidity, not a fail.
@jonarse luckily they didn't wake up hungry and have to make the short walk to the SUPER WALMART down the road. JEEEEZUS. People act like she was in Siberia, naked, fighting a mountain lion.
You literally walked past a sign saying “pets must be on leash” whilst the dog was running off leash ahead. That could be dangerous for the dog if he falls into frozen water or other wild animals nearby…
That's usually so dogs don't harass wildlife or other humans. If you have a well trained dog it should be fine.
@@SleepingTiger-vlogNo. it says to leash your animal. Do it. You pet is not an exception.
My husband and dog got charged by a moose recently. If our dog was on a leash, they both would have been seriously injured or dead. A local man just got killed by a moose a week before they got charged. My husband tried to hide in a ditch and the moose chased our dog who runs much faster than my husband. Thus saving my husband's life. When my husband got home, our dog was waiting on our porch like a good boy. This trail looks like it's going to a rental camping yurt. So the likelihood is there is noone else on the trail, if it's like the other rental cabin/yurt places I stay in here in Alaska. If it's a public trail that lots of people walk on, then yes, most definitely keep your dog leashed. Or if you have a dog that chases wildlife or doesn't have good recall. Those leash rules are made to respect the wildlife and other humans, because a lot of dogs will chase and bark. Maybe her dog does chase and bark, but from the videos I've seen, it seems like it listens really well to her. If it's safer to not have my dog on a leash and it's not bothering anyone, then I will take the leash off my dog. If other people are around or it's safer to have a leash on my dog, I will put it back on. Common sense saves lives.
You're the problem@SleepingTiger-vlog. Put the darn dog on a leash like the sign says. Period. You want him off leash, then take him to the dog park.
@@xArtieboyx13 I have my dog on a leash or a shock collar when I am at places where there is a need for it. Like in town, at the beach or around other people. Many of us moved to Alaska so we don't have to have our dogs on a leash all the time. There are no leash laws in the area where I live. There are also no dog parks. If I go into city limits the law is a leash OR good recall. I currently have one dog, and most days there are 5 dogs at my house hanging out. That is rural Alaska lifestyle. If that trail in the video is a public use trail then she should probably have a leash or good recall. It looks like a trail to a rental yurt and if so, in my experience there will not be anyone on that trail. Like I said in my prior post, if my dog was on a leash when my husband was charged by a moose both my husband and dog would be dead. Our dog doesn't chase moose like some dogs do, because we trained him not to. Common sense. I'd rather have alive husband and dog then dead ones. Do you live somewhere where dogs always have to be on leashes?
As soon as you said "a 2-mile hike to the yurt", I said "nope". 😆
Snow and bears??? Absolutely not...
🤣🤣🤣 I agree! 😂😂😂
Carrying all your gear. In the snow. In the dark. Bears. For two miles. Every time I watch Ria's videos, the father in me is concerned for her safety. Plus knowing myself, I would inevitably forget something in the truck and have to go back and get it. Maybe more than once.
Need a small sled to pull her gear and dog could help ! Rental should have provided it.
No Way - plus it's a Dry Cabin. That's a double No Way!!
My heart goes out to you for taking such good care of Blue. He is always first with you, as he should be. You are a good example for how all of us should take of our animals. They depend on us and we owe it to them to do our very very best . God Bless you and I pray for Blue to overcome the cancer and you to have the strength to help him fight. I love your videos, I will never be able to travel to far away places so thank you! Although I do have my horses who carry me on many adventures all be it close to home.
It almost seems like couple bf thing
It's so great to see the genuine, deep love that you have for Blue, always putting his needs first...and oh boy, he's always so happy..!!!
@@bethanmiles5126 HE is a happy little fella, just like my dog. Reminds me so much of her. She nearly broke through my screen door when I was outside and the dog that charges at us as we walk by it's chain link yard, was on leash walking with it's owner. She thought it would come after me as usual, and had to save me. I had to get up and lean on the door to keep her from literally breaking the door frame to get out to me. We do have to carry protection just on walks because of dogs. A neighbor's dogs had me cornered against my chicken coop in the back yard,j lately, so I placed items all over so I could get to them fast. My dog is inside the house. They didn't bother me at all when she's with me. Then, they act well behaved and even friendly! She's, apparantl, and Alpha because ONE bark through the window would send the aggressive dog running home! So her dog would fight and she needs to be prepared to defend him, also. IT's dangerous out there.
@@freedomspirit9521. Do u know if they make food for kitty cats?? Thank you!!
Wrong, she puts her dog in danger and doesn’t use the leash
Hi. I watched your channel today for the first time. I love your sense of adventure. I feel compelled to say something... please be armed. After years of camping in our local national forest, I thought my daughter and myself would be safe camping in there. But we weren't. A man showed up and set up camp a thousand feet from us and watched us through the scope on his rifle. Yes, he pointed a rifle at us. It was dark outside. My daughter (who was 10 at the time) saw what he was doing. We jumped in our car and hauled ass as fast as we could. No phone service for several miles, but finally I was able to call the sheriff. They went to check out the guy, but he was already gone...like 45 minutes and gone! I'll always believe he had evil on his mind.
Now, I carry a pistol with me all the time.
Be safe out there. There are so many demented evil people.
@MountainGyspy Holy shit! Your daughter has very good spatial awareness and sense to know that was a dangerous situation and also told you. Did you also see him do it? In the dark?? I can't even imagine how terrifying that was!
That's absolutely terrifying. I am so glad you and your daughter are alright.
I would have been shaking in my boots walking through the Alaskan wilderness in the middle of the night. Happy all is well now for you
Hopefully you would have been smart enough to open the damper on the wood stove before lighting it tho. 😂😂😂
@aerynstormcrow I think you mean "educated" enough. She obviously wasn't aware and had not had that experience previously. Be kind instead of trying to make someone look bad just to be cruel or feel that you are "smart".
Same
All I could think of with you walking that far in the dark in the woods, were bears. I lived on a logging island in Alaska in 1975 and no one would venture out after dark because the bears would come into the logging camp. I’m so glad you were safe.
Hi I admire you I wish I was you with my dogs but I'm wondering did you even fill up your gas tank or your diesel tank did you check all of your items and heaters and whatever you might have to keep you warm and safe before you thought of venturing out I always make sure I have a full tank of gas even while driving I do not let my tank go below half because you never know if you're going to get into a traffic jam and be stuck and then run out of gas and on top of that I don't know if I would want to venture out into the snow even though I did do it in my Jeep on freshly powdered snow and drove around for a while out in the wilderness by myself no one around if I broke down I would have been screwed I was very lucky but man do I wish I could be you right now in the wilderness I just love being out there free to do whatever I want free to see the beauty of the world and just free to go wherever I please but anyways good luck thanks smartly and be safe and have fun and live your life and thank you for sharing and by the way you and your dog are absolutely beautiful❤
They're in hibernation!
The bears are probably hibernating. They do occasionally come out of their dens but the spring months are the most dangerous for bear attacks
Food in her bag too! Its a party!
My concern would be the moose. They are all over up by the Nature Center.
My first inclination was to give you all sorts of advice. Primitive survival is something I've done a lot. But, then, I realized that I'm here sitting at home in front of my computer and you're out there having an adventure! I should be taking advice from you and I should get back out there! So, go have fun! Enjoy! Life is one big risk anyway and you are living it in a way that will allow you to go sliding into home plate with no regrets. Good for you and God speed!
I really like that comment ^^ May peace be with you
Thank you for this comment. The rest of them were driving my loony! ha
Couldn’t agree more. I had a read through the comments and yes I agree you need to take precautions to keep safe. It’s your life and your living it to its fullest, the dogs LOVED, happy and living the dream along side mum. Be safe but never stop doing what makes you happy!
If you had the feeling, you were being watched on the walk back to your vehicle, chances are you were being watched! I hear hikers say this all the time. In most cases, it is a mountain lion. They say your hair stands up on your body & you know something is watching you. Thank God his angels helped you to safety!
When something doesn’t feel right is time to get tf out
Truth and experience teaches you to read your dogs reaction to certain animals. Mine that were much bigger would not go out if a cougar was in the area also would not go down certain trails if a bear was down there. Always have a dog you can read always.
The damper is closed.. that’s terrible you didn’t figure that out. It’s why it’s so smoky in there.
This. Can’t believe she doesn’t know this. 🙄
That might be why but our woodstove smokes up our whole yurt like that too. We have tricks to help prevent it from being as smoky but there is a vent on the skylight, and she probably didn't know that. We have to open our vent every single time we open our woodstove door. And yes, we know how to use our damper.
@@SleepingTiger-vlog this comedummy doesn't know a lot apparently
@@leoross5777 Someone pointed out that the damper was closed originally but it was opened later in video. So apparently she did know how to open it. I'd say most people that have wood stoves wouldn't be able to start a fire and are your without smoking the whole place up because it's very different than any normal house. So people that say they know better actually no less than they think they do.
i literally get so terrified and anxious watching your videos please be more safe 😭
So do I. I literally hold my breath and drink heavily.🤪😩
If you're watching a video, that means she got to safety and uploaded it. Don't waste your nerve cells 😉
A sleeping bag rated for those temps and not "blankets" would have got you and your dog through the night.
Also, would love to see you pack a firearm. You don't need one, until you need one.
God bless, great and honest mechanics!
And more than a bungee to keep the door cracked and not easy access for evildoers. God forbid. I’m glad you have a dog with you for first alert system!
Yep
I didn't read through all 800+ comments. 😉 Hopefully someone already helped you with the stove. If not you should know that wood stoves can be temperamental, especially if pine (soft woods) are burned. When you get smoke coming back into the room, cabin, yurt, tent, whatever it usually is caused by a closed damper or blocked stove pipe. Spark arrestors are quick to clog with soot or creosote buildup. Take the spark arrestor off and make sure damper is open, then try again. Even wet wood will light if air is flowing. A cracked window can help initially to get the draft going up pipe. Clean arrestor then put back on while enjoying the warmth of the working stove. Good luck.
She didn't even attempt to look at the stove. She just kept lighting the wood.
Could be lots of creosote in the chimney pipe, which causes smoke and terrible burning and can actually catch on fire. In the cold, with a long pipe, creosote buildup is more likely in the pipe.
Don't know why campgrounds and campsites always only Supply Greenwood which don't burn that's why I always bring my own
What's a spark arrestor?
A spark arrestor normally is a wire mesh or a cap at the top of the stovepipe that catches the largest sparks. Small sparks normally pass through.
Had a dog just like that. Best dog I ever had. Too smart for her own good.
You can totally drag stuff in the snow on a snow saucer or (maybe even a dish pan) which could save your back if you have problems.
i was thinking the same
A sled makes it easier. Thanks for showing where it is. Plan to kidnap my hubby for trip out there. Blue would have let you know if a bear was around. Look forward to the next adventure
@@kipholder8577 Me too. Pulling a sled or paulk would have been better.
I was thinking of those tire trax people have to get unstuck .they are like sleds
Do you have to use the word "totally" like a dumbass?
Girl I cannot believe you walked back to Po 😭 AT NIGHT. I would’ve just cracked the door open for a bit. Youre brave
Yes but she had NO HEAT!
I had second hand anxiety
Watching you guys walk that freezing cold, long walk in the middle of the night. You are so brave! You’re such a good mamma to sweet Blue ❤❤
I get it. She had no choice.
Should have bud heater at cabin
That was a scary night walk but Bubby didn't seem too worried ❤ Love his cute face and energy. At least he got his 10k steps in.
“Pawsitive” energy
@maketodaypretty1505 stupid. you make people barf.
Always be cautious and carry protection and your first instinct and intuition are usually correct
But she won’t
@@KaliKali-hv9bt She's got guts walking in the wilderness in the dark for 2 miles I'll give her that !
@@SirManflyI’d call it stupidity! From an Alaskan woman.
Paranoia is NOT an instinct- it's mental illness!!!
@@judiartman1134exactly
A more unprepared van lifer,I have never seen. 😮 I’m amazed that you and your dog weren’t overcome by the CO from the smoke. Yikes. So many mistakes, I don’t even know where to start.
I didn't think she did anything wrong and I live in an off grid yurt in Alaska. She just was met with some not unusual challenges and did a great job dealing with them.
@@SleepingTiger-vlog i was wondering, aren't those stoves built so that you have to open an air control flow hatch from the bottom of the stove (under the fire) and also from the chimney? I have lit up a lot of sauna stoves and fireplaces and they're all built like that in here, Finland. The smoke inside the yurt was probably a hint to open up the chimney hatch to let smoke out 😅
@@lamppuu1 I didn't think it was chimney damper since it didn't start smoking right away. It shows her working on the fire for awhile before it starts getting smoky. Our yurt used to have the side chimney like that, and it would smoke up our whole yurt super bad every time. We had to put newspaper up into the chimney first, to create a draw and help warm up the chimney. Cold chimney won't pull the smoke. This is not uncommon. We moved our woodstove to the center of the yurt because a straight up and down chimney works better, but we still get some smoke until the draw gets going. Trying to start wet wood can take several hours of effort and creates a ton of smoke. We still have to crack open the skylight every time we open the woodstove door. I don't think she knows that you can crack open the skylight to let out the smoke from the room. I've lived with only wood heat for most of my adult life in Alaska and I'm 52. I know how to work dampers. This predicament she's in used to happen to us more times than I can count. It's possible that she just didn't open the damper, but just as possible that it was wet wood, cold chimney, not enough kindling, and not knowing that she could crack the skylight to air out the room.
You put yourself and your dog in a very dangerous situation going out at night on a trail.😮
Probably better than freezing all night.
@@SleepingTiger-vlog Well dah genious!
i don’t understand stupid comments like these . her and her dog made it back safely OBVIOUSLY
@@horselover-vt7nponly stupid comment was yours, bless your heart! 😂
@@horselover-vt7npbecause they are Muppets. This is exactly when you should bring a dog with you.
Hike in, wet firewood, hike out in the middle of the night, aggressive bear in the area, diesel heater not working..Girl, you are the bravest person I’ve ever seen! Please, you and Blue stay safe! ❤
I live in SOCAL and haven’t heard the crunch of snow in about 40 yrs! Love that sound. You are such a cool, adventuresome, strong, brave young woman!! Stay safe….looking forward to following your adventures!
Throughout this, I was so wishng I was there to help you. Im an old school prepper and survivalist and it hurt my heart watching you going through this. Please always be careful and always have backup on everything..... 2 is 1 and 1 is none......Ole military and survivalist motto. God Bless and Always Stay Safe.......
thats nice of you ole timer I JUST KEPT WAITING FOR A BEAR TO JUMP OUT ON THE SILLY COW
@@biffa1234100😂😂😂😂
That is so nice!
Carry a freakin weapon!!!! Shotgun minimum. Do you have any idea about how big and dangerous animals are in Alaska.....
@@user-bd5md5cm2j a .45 can stop a moose or bear if you place your shot right, or just unload your whole mag. Shotgun isn’t necessary.
You are living my dream! Unfortunately, I am now 66 and disabled severely.
But I am still camping! Granny Camping!! Anyway, stay strong, stay safe.Stay grounded, you're doing wonderful.
Wonderful
Honey I'm 69 do it every day only place I live is my rv traveling and hiking broke my back neck both shoulders and elbows my right leg and left knee not all at once but had broke skull back and shoulder at once plus other injury, soft tissue but I still do it some days not so good but with God all things possible
Please don’t let your dog run loose. Walking that at night was very dangerous. Be safe.
The best thing out of everything that happened is that Po was still operational, the heater in Po was working, so thank God you weren't stranded with no heat at all. I am so thankful that you were able to make it to town and find someone that could fix it. One last thing to remember is that liquid carries electrical current, so any spilled liquid would carry current from one cable to another and cause shortages fried wiring/cables. The best part about all this is that you and Blue are safe and not stranded away from help. May God continue to Bless and Protect you always. And by the way, don't sell yourself short....................You are one heck of a COURAGEOUS, BRAVE, SMART, ADVENTUROUS, PERSEVERING, AND DETERMINED YOUNG LADY!!! You are probably one in 10 million that would have the courage to do what you are and have been doing!
Oh Maria I love watching you and Blue. I just lost my little buddy, he was 17. Sending love ❤ 🐕🐶
Quick firestarter - toilet paper roll plus cotton balls and Vaseline, smear Vaseline on cotton balls stuff in roll and place in firewood light both ends and wala FIRE!
This episode is better than watching the Super Bowl. I admire your perseverance. I would be in an Air BnB so fast! I am always confident you will find a way and make the best decisions for you and Blue. Stay safe.
Wait what?? She gave up after an hour or so 😂😂😂 worst hiker ever, injured and whining
💯💯💯💯💯yes any day
The thing about diesel heaters is that the fuel can turn to thick jell in the cold. Just when you need it most. Heat the diesel heater and fuel with the buddy heater and then try it again in an hour...
That's what I was wondering. I wouldn't want a diesel anything in an Alaskan winter.
I drive 100,000 miles a year… I say a prayer ever day I start out. It works!
I'm a Christian. God doesn't intervene all the time even if you pray. You have to be aware, take every precaution!
Keep yourself safe! No one else will.
I was a trucker for 13 years, solo female, prayed just about every day. Made it safely through every difficulty. Of course praying doesn't mean you don't take personal responsibility. I was always as prepared as I knew how to be. Stay safe driver!
I’ve lived in Alaska almost my whole life. But I moved to Washington a few months ago and miss Alaska SOOOO MUCH, never wanted to leave. Love to see you enjoying Alaska. My heart is empty but this video made me feel full 💛
Many areas in Washington mimic Alaska my guess is that you miss your friends
definitely not. nothing here compares to alaska. @@jamesmcdonough2726
same, i moved to washington a few years back and got HOME SICK and moved back to alaska. but for very personal reasons i had to move back to washington so life would be easier for my family. still always wishing to go back to alaska, but life is easier here, just feels incomplete. hope you get to visit alaska again!@@Rachelle-r5h
If you really miss it, go back home🏡🗻. I moved to a new place, lasted 6 months, but I missed the beach and ocean every day. Haven't regretted coming back! Although the other place was Beautiful, I just didn't belong there.
@@amandamitchell8894 I can’t. As much as I want to, life is easier here than there 🥺I have family that would take care of my kids while both me and my spouse are working. In Alaska I wouldn’t have that. I’m glad you chose to move back to where you felt was right for you! ☺️
You hit the nail on the head Ria. It can always be worse. Glad you and Blue made it back safely.
I feel so sorry for you and your little dog, so frustrating to have planned what seemed like such a wonderful adventure and trip to have so many problems pop up. I have to say, none of this van camping in the snow and freezing temps looks like one bit of fun to me. I love to watch those brave enough to venture out and do it, but my old bones just couldn't cut it. Be careful, get some bear spray and hope luck improves for you and Blue, she/he is so darling and sticks so close to you, which is so sweet.
I love how pup comes running back to you every time you say something and put the camera in him
You need to open a window or Crack door open a little to get the initial fire draft going . Also close the fireplace door tightly completely closed and just open fireplace vent a tiny bit at first until the flames get bigger and hotter to where you can hear the air being literally sucked in to fuel the oxygen starved fire. This will make it burn hotter faster, and thus, more wood will start burning, and fire will then get bigger at a faster pace. I remember the first time learning how to do this and how amazingly well it worked once you employ the right tweaks to create the optimal draft,flame ,vent adjustment ratio. It makes you feel like a powerful pro once you get it.
You need to open a window or crack the door to get a fire started? You are a baffoon.
Was the damper open? Closed?
@@occamsrazor7939 It looks like she opened it.
This is the best comment I've seen on here about the fire situation. But if the wood was wet/green it would have been extra hard. She might have failed regardless. We have to open the skylight vent every time we open our woodstove door. But we do have to keep the door slightly cracked and not all the way closed until the fire is burning hot, otherwise it goes out.
Please keep safe with Bobby. I was so worried for you both when you were walking back to your car in the dark.
Her dogs name is, Blue. 😊
Scary walking in the Alaskan wilderness at night. Glad you and blue are safe.
When Maria entered the yurt, the handle for the damper was turned down 6:45. When she was trying to start the fire 7:14 the handle was turned up. So maybe the damper was left open by the previous occupants and she closed it.
My yurt smokes up like that all the time even with the damper open. We have to open the skylight vent when starting the fire and use cardboard to get the flames big enough to start a draft up the chimney.
There are sleeping bags rated for 40 below temps, and they are lightweight. Perfect for situations like yours.
Keep damp wood on top of the stove, the warmth dries it out.
But even damp lumber should be dry inside, if you know how to split and stack it. Not presuming, but have you had firecraft training?
The people who owned the hurt gave her wet wood.
the thing is they stock wet woods the owners responsibility for the renter
It was probably a green tree that came down in the snow, and someone that didn't know better put it there. Let me presume. Your "Fire craft training" consist of watching outdoor boys on You Tube............ Nailed it didn't I?
@richardp6461 She couldn't keep the fire going. Is she mean enough to survive freezing cold without it? Let me guess, you're an RV park camper... Nailed it didn't I ? 😅😅
@@pattihart8751 Nailed nothing. 😅😅
Glad to see you made it through that okay...
But here's a little secret - almost every time you see a "bad bear in the area" sign, it usually REALLY MEANS that there's Sasquatch activity in the area.
I have a few friends that work in different U.S. National Parks and that's the scuttlebutt that I get from them.
These are people I've known for twenty years or more, so I don't discount what they tell me.
Do you own a Personal Protection Device? If not, I'd heartily recommend that you look into obtaining a good sized revolver... .44 or bigger.
They don't jam up like an automatic when you really need them.
Of course NOBODY really wants to have to use one, but when there's no one around but you and the imminent threat, having one is better than not.
Be safe on your future adventures...
Cheers!
She certainly needs something!
That's was the "feeling that she'd never felt before", like she "was being watched."
So much I could critique here. As a 2 time Iditarod finisher, & 43 years as an Alaskan. But hey we all make mistakes and things go wrong in cold weather at a higher rate. The colder it gets the more malfunction & things break. Being able to adapt and over come is critical. Outsiders are so obsessed with bears, like there is a bear behind every tree 😂Best of luck you have moxie!
Oh. My. Goodness. Every time I watch one of your videos, I think to myself that your parents must have nerves of steel!!! (I have children your age, and, nope, lol). But this one! Geesh, I had so much anxiety, and I think I passed out for a minute when you mentioned the bear 🥴 lol.
And when you had to leave the door open while you slept!?! 😱 That was only slightly less terrifying to think about than your walking back to Poe through the frozen wilderness for 45 minutes in the dark! 🫣😬
I could never do what you do, and that’s part of the reason why I love your channel so much. I am very relieved you and Blue are okay 😊 Stay safe! ❤🙏🏻
Hopefully you have a carbon monoxide detector in your truck whenever you use the Buddy Heater?
@@tychosnova2896I hope her parents have a life insurance policy on her.
I watch a few people that do vehicle living and mostly they have me wanting to shove a mattress in my Jeep and take off. Then you come along, keeping it real. Maybe I’ll just stay home! lol.
For real though!!!😅
If you’re properly prepared and think ahead and think things all the way through, it’s not an issue (coming from an SUV lifer of over a year). She doesn’t always educate herself the way she should; I mean heck she says herself she can’t even cook at her age. She should have done FAR more research before heading to Alaska (as an Alaskan born and raised) like wildlife precautions, a block heater for her engine, how to start a fire in emergency situations (like with a ferro rod) and how to use/troubleshoot a wood stove. It’s incredible how far a small amount of knowledge will get you, and how far it can put you in the ground if you don’t have it.
😂😂😂
As a woman seeing a note on my vehicle at night will most definitely wait until daylight 😭 trust issues on a thousand. Also, i gotta say you have a great attitude even with all that happening. Wish you an abundance of joy throughout your journey 🫶🏼
Been wondering, where is you sled? Snowshoes? Walking poles w/baskets. If it snows, post holing will drain your energy and can be dangerous! This is how life threatening adventures turn into search and rescue operations.
Yep, endangering the lives of those sent out to do the rescuing too. Very irresponsible!
No matter what your vehicles is the most comfortable and am glad you made it safe through that darkness, you’re one positive lady, blue so lucky to have you
Sort of held my breathe when you walked back to car at night 😮❤ glad you made it back safe!
My goodness what an adventure!
Glad you both made it.
Blu is the cutest ever! 😍
Knowledge and experience is key to survival in extreme conditions, fail to prepare prepare to fail. Enjoyed the vid all the same, gorgeous canine companion. Like n sub.
I think she did great.
Blue is priceless. Looks ready for any adventure. Lol. So cute.
As an aviator when something goes wrong with the helicopter, it usually starts a chain reaction of other stuff going wrong. You did the right thing to remove yourself from the yurt situation and seek shelter in Poe. You were brave and got it done. Bravery is overcoming your fear and getting it done…it helps that God was protecting you. My pastor calls it a wall of fire protecting you. You are a great leader for Blue. Sorry for your bad luck but you overcame it. Looking forward to your next adventure!
So she didn't ball up and die in the snow, so she's brave? Shut up, Karen.
glad that you and blue are safe the Yurt was not safe with all that smoke, happy that you managed to get the diesel heater fixed and hopefully the jackery soon
I think the consensus in all these comments is the following:
1. Do not walk or hike outside your camp at night. When hiking or exploring during the day, because that's the only time you will ever go outside your camp, leash your dog at all times unless you two are isolated from the wilderness.
2. License yourself, then purchase, train with, and carry a firearm at all times.
3. Keep all of your doors locked at all times unless you are standing within a couple of steps to your vehicle. This includes ventilation for your heater. Crack your windows or find another method for ventilation. Never crack open a door for this purpose.
Your learning life lessons and now realize Michigan winters don't hold a candle to Alaska's extremes. For future knowledge....You were surrounded with pine trees that all contain FAT WOOD and all have dead limbs that will burn anytime to start a fire. All ya have to do is push the lower branches of the tree aside and go in and get your good fire starter branches with the hatchet or just break them off. The Diesel heater intake is not your fault...they suck for under a vehicle. I fabricated my own that uses a 3 inch tube with dual K&N automotive air filters. Good Luck...God Bless ya both and keep ya safe.
I dont know Michigan can get pretty bad. Anchorage I hear is not too bad. I have also been told by soldiers who been to Fort Wainwright in near Fairbank, and Fort Drum in NY, that Fort Drum is actually comparable if not colder.
she's literally 6 miles from Walmart. shut up.
It was not a problem with wet wood the gal doesn't know the damper on the woodstove had to be open .
@@peterloichtl4512 The damper was open. My yurt has the same problem. Need to open the skylight vent every time we make a fire.
I was thinking the same thing as I was watching. Go outside and find some crispy spruce tree branches to use as kindling. I've dealt with this very situation hundreds of times in our yurt and it's rough. Especially with wet wood. It can take several hours to get the fire going.
iv never really had an issue with wet wood in the winter, snow doesnt make wood wet. its frozen, i think the issue here is you probably didn't open the damper on the wood stove which allows oxygen into the stove through the front, making the fire burn and the smoke exit through the top, usually crank open the damper until the fire is good and roaring with lots of coals and then you can leave it open just a crack while you sleep, it will make the wood burn for longer if the damper is only open a little bit.
I was thinking she didn’t open the damper cause there was smoke in the cabin your right
I think she didn't check the damper on the flue, not the stove. Even with the woodstove doors open, the smoke was going back into the yurt rather than being sucked up into the chimney. Intake damper doesn't do much when the door is open, and an open door is more than enough to provide a strong draft. In a few shots (i.e. 6:44) you can see the flue damper handle, she only had to twist it.
Fire damper. Open it.
Maria, leashes only work if you HOLD them. Please take better care of Blue, especially in the middle of the woods at night. He deserves better. ❤
The ones renting the yurt should have had note / instructions about the damper. You made the right decision - too cold to tough it out.
I don't think it was the damper. It was opened later. Our woodstove does that in our yurt too. You got to get the flames hot enough to create a flow up the chimney, which is impossible with wet wood. We also have to open the vent on the skylight though to let the smoke out of the room and I don't think she knew about that.
I am surprised you didn't keep your dog on a leash close to you when going down during the night. He might had been attacked by a wolf or a bear. Scary stuff.
We have wolves, bears, coyotes etc around our yurt and our dogs are not on leashes unless we go to town.
@@SleepingTiger-vlogPlease don't let them get eaten
@@grapesoda24 We are very mindful of that. If they were tied up they would have a lot bigger chance of being killed. How could they get away?. We are a pack. When they bark I'm right out there with them to see what it is. Sometimes I roar and my dog thinks it's very impressive. 😆 Our dog diverted a moose that charged my husband and outran the moose so my husband could get home safely. Dog was waiting on the porch.
I cannot believe you crack your door open? How about a window? Raise your heater so the fumes go out the window! 😳 And I am shocked you didn’t have a sleeping bag
with appropriate warmth!
Glad to see you dressed your dog for the cold& snow!
Loose lead is big NO NO..
You are awesome…so glad you and your doggy made it through a rough time…and are moving “onward and upward”.😊👍
Woman in yoga pants out in the Alaskan wilderness thinking about Narnia. What could possibly go wrong ?
I've burned a lot of wet/damp wood in my wood stove. It's not easy to get going or to keep going, but I have a couple tips. It looked like you had one larger piece of wood at an angle a bunch of tiny pieces around it the whole time. Unless you have dry wood that isn't gonna work. On the bottom I always put down two pieces of larger kindling parallel to each other that are high enough for me to insert paper or cardboard or fire starters between them. Then I lay down 3-4 more pieces of small kindling across those pieces, then 3-4 more on those the other way, etc., like cribbing. I try to make it with the two pieces on the bottom larger, then the next two layers small kindling, and the top 1-2 pieces the size of the one you had in there. I feed in the fire starter in the bottom and wood shavings like you had in the center. With the cribbing if one piece starts it spreads easily, and once it catches it will burn upward and start the larger pieces and you don't have to sit there feeding the fire larger and larger pieces. With damp wood you can't just put one big piece in there and keep putting in fire starters under it.
The other thing, if the chimney is cold there's little draft. If you can light some paper or cardboard towards the back near the chimney it helps to warm it up and start the draft. Once your fire starter is going you should leave the door cracked and you should notice the air rushing through the door onto the fire/coals like someone blowing on it. If you just leave the door wide open there's little draft, and if you close the door on a fire barely going with wet wood there's usually not enough air and it will go out. Leave the door cracked until it takes off.
Once you get a fire going, split a bunch of wood in various sizes and keep them on top of and around the stove to dry out, and cycle them around as they dry and you burn the pieces. I was also wondering if that chimney cap or chimney wasn't drafting because of creosote. Always a good idea at a place like that to check the smoke outside when you start the fire and make sure it's coming out good. If you tap the chimney pipe and hear what sounds like glass pieces falling that's creosote buildup, choking out the air flow. I think your problem with the fire was you didn't get a hot enough fire to warm up the chimney to create a draft, so the smoke wasn't being sucked up the chimney.
With damp wood you also have to keep the fire stoked once it's burning. Soon as there is room for another piece you need to be on top of it or you'll be back goofing around getting it going again.
Sure…but all she had to do was open the damper….
@@aerynstormcrow I didn't see a damper, and several people commented they didn't see one. Not all wood stoves have a damper. Some have a baffle system that doesn't need one. The shots she showed inside the stove looked like it was a newer type stove that may not have a damper. That's why I don't think that was the problem. Mine has an air control and damper on the front of the stove above the door, but my niece's stove doesn't have a damper at all.
But some stove pipes aren't installed correctly and restricted draw. It was.clear there was NO draw there. First thing I thought of is did a bird build a nest in that stove pipe or has it been cleaned ever? I only have a backboiler woodstove for heat and nothing else, the advice on how to build up under the log is spot on to get air flowing around the log
When all else fails...lighter fluid! 🤣🤣🤣
I'm so happy you and Blue are okay and safe! SO thankful you kept the buddy heater as a back up!
Blue looked so cute running ahead of her on the way. He kept running back to her like he was saying " mom, c'mon, hurry up I gotta get you there safe and sound Lol😂❤❤❤
I laughed out loud when you realized the diesel heater was broken and you can see in the background Blue humping the blanket 🤣 I love how our pets can be so blissfully unaware of serious situations because they trust us so much in taking care of them 💝
Also I love the way you put your dogs needs above your own 🐶🐾🐾❤️
Someone once told me, bad luck comes with many challenges but once you get through them the end results is as beautiful. -A Place I used to work.
Seen on the tombstone of a pilot.......
So Now Millennials call ignoring Very basic survival skill and lack of knowledge “Bad Luck” or Blame it on “Murphy”😂😂😂…
You actually were building the fire all wrong in the stove. I lived in the mountains for many years. A real hardcore mountain man showed me the trick! You have to make a log house of wood, inside the stove, with the entrance of the wood house facing you. It only requires 4 split pieces of good size wood (or 4 logs of limb wood). Pine is best because it ignites the easiest, but watch out for pops from the burning sap. Put 2 pieces of wood into the stove, side by side, spaced about 5 inches apart (about width of your fist). Take two more pieces and lay them cross-ways on top, creating a cross section. About 2" spacing between them. The fire starter goes in the center spacing (entrance) of the house and can be additionally fed by some kindling. Because of the containment created by the logs, the fire in the center will create a vacuum, drawing more air into the center of the house increasing the temperature of fire very fast which helps to dry and ignite the logs surrounding it (especially the cross sections on top). A few blows, some kindling if necessary, and the fire will get real real hot, enough to dry and ignite even some pretty damp or frozen wood.
I've been able to start large whole log sizes of limb wood without splitting them with this method. I only used splitting to make wood small enough to put in the stove.
first video of yours that i've watched, and i appreciate your honesty and candidness for your experience with the yurt, along with everything else that happened. it must've been hard re-watching the footage, editing it, and posting it publicly.. but i appreciate your effort in showing the tough parts of truck camping. it's not all glamorous as it seems to be! hope you and blue continue staying safe.
Next time you have a snowy trek in the snow with gear, get a cheap sled to haul gear. You made the right choice going back to Poe.
Yes, agree. Sometimes you have to make the hard choice to stay alive and safe.
I mean it was only 2 miles, investment in a better pack is probably more worth the money and storage space in the truck. Ideally one with a proper padded waist strap so the weight isn't all on the shoulders and back
Thank God you both made it back safe. Thank God! I notice I find myself praying for you both very often.❤
Hey Maria! Is it possible to send you something from Amazon?
I’m so glad you and blu are ok. I believe that old adage, what doesn’t kill you, makes you stronger. If we don’t make mistakes, we don’t learn. I too camp out in an old military Land Rover with my golden retriever. Looking toward to your next episode. 🇬🇧
The yurt was not safe period. A bear could go through it no problem
Your dogs expression upon leaving truck tells me he knew something bad was around the corner.
OH MY GOSH GIRL!!!! When u headed back to ur Poe....IN THE DARK...with a KNIFE...I wanted to SCREAM...WHERE IS UR GUN...THERE R BEARS!!! THANK GOD U BOTH MADE IT SAFELY!! I did some HORRIBLY CRAZY THINGS when I was younger....it could have turned out SO BADLY...SO MANY TIMES....BUT FOR THE GRACE OF GOD I made it thru!!! U r TRULY PRECIOUS AND I AM SO THANKFUL TO GOD U R SAFE...BOTH OF U!!! THANK U FOR THE ADVENTURE!!
Her choice not to bring a 10mm pistol is lack of common sense in this realm. She had no clue as to the potential danger she could have faced. When in bear county, make sure you have at least a 10mm pistol.
@@rockaboatus588Agreed! She reckless as F
@@rockaboatus588 I tell my kids to bring guns when they hike in Alaska, but I haven't carried once since I moved here in '75. Smarter to carry one, but bears out in February with that much snow if pretty unlikely. I do carry a seal bomb sometimes. There are bears, wolves, coyotes and moose all around my yurt and it just seems too awkward and even dangerous to carry a gun around all the time. I'm 52. I survived this long. If they get me well I've had a great life.
@sleepingtiger2096 Obviously, you can do as you wish, and I understand the point you've made. Fair enough. I would just caution you to remember these are wild animals and a series of good encounters hardly means they will always be that way.
@@rockaboatus588 Most definitely. My husband got charged by a moose this week. :)
You need to open the skylight for airflow with a yurt! My son lived in one in Mongolia for three years. He had a cat burgler come into the yurt via the skylight one night and it was a real cat! He said he was located in the middle of the Gobi Desert so he had no idea where a cat came from.
Yes! We have to open the skylight vent in our yurt too. That's funny about the cat burglar!
Just a little FYI I would not let my dog run wild. You don’t know what’s around the next tree the next corner if there’s a bear there a wolf, I wouldn’t want to see anything happen to your dog.
Just curious why her dog would be more safe if it was on a leash when the bear or wolf came? Seems to me it would be more safe without the leash as long as it has good recall which it appears it has. My husband got charged by a moose the other day and he ran off the side of the road and hid behind something. Fortunately the moose chased our dog who is much faster than my husband and our dog was sitting by our yurt when my husband got home after them. Moose was gone.
@@SleepingTiger-vlogI like your reply
@@SleepingTiger-vlogjust people who don't know what they are talking about trying to be relevant by advising others in comment sections behind a keyboard and screen.
You are one brave lady adventuring out in the wilderness… Take care of yourself and Blue. He is one georgous puppy 🐶🐾🐾Safe Travels and stay strong ✝️🙏🏼🛐
Wow, Peg, maybe invite her for a lesb. love in the wilderness, in N Dakota. PEG! You gotta job yet? I got some friends North of Ye border that might be able to get you some work. You available? Manitoba. We gota job for ya hon!!! Can you dance?
Looks like her dog is a purebred Australian Shepherd. They are second in intelligence only to a border collie and that is an extremely close second. They are the BEST dogs ever and are double coated, so they do excellent in the cold and most hot climates. Aussies are beyond super loyal so she's got the best breed. My first video of hers to watch and I loved it. Things I loved...her fearlessness, her good decision to walk back with a lighter pack. Her instant decision to get her items repaired and watching the repairs as they were done so she learned valuable knowledge. Bonus... I loved her flexibility to situations and SHINY hair to boot. You go girl! p.s. I own 3 purebred Aussies too! I'm 64 years old and wish I could do what you are doing, but I wish you all the best! Come to NM in October for the Balloon fiesta in Albuquerque.
I love Australian Shepherds, but they are not 2nd in intelligence to the border collie.
Have you ever read the story of "Bobbie the Wonder dog" of Silverton Oregon. Walked over 3,000 miles back home in 1923. This story will stay with you.
Loved my Aussie. They are sheep dogs and stick to you like glue, not running off. Also very agile and a healthy breed
Your courage and desire to do great things is admirable!! I wish you everything good!! Blessings!!
🙏s for you and blue. I hope you get to warmer climate soon!
Another thing that can happen is if you run your heater on low all night , it may soot up inside. Doing this too many times will cause the heater to fail in starting up. You should turn it to high for 15 minutes to burn off the soot before shutting it off . Take care and be safe.
Your optimistic sarcasm is awesome and it's the main reason I watch this wonderful content. Love it.
That's how people get killed. A series of three negative events occur, and each mishap in itself would not cause harm, but three close together can be catastrophic or fatal.
I wish I could give this comment more likes!!!
It looks like your Yurt Tent was not prep right at all. There is no excuse. I get my money back. We rented a cabin & all the wood was dry on a covered porch. And they had a dry room stock with fire wood. No smoke, it was a nice set-up.
totally agree money back or a free stay being winter there has to be dry wood ,it actually could have been a life and death situation .
Yes agree. That fire looked like the chimney was blocked or the damper was closed. Should be instructions on using it but should not get any smoke in the room regardless of the wood.
@@lightplane damper was closed
ok Karen
The damper was my guess, too.