When I write about ‘getting started’, I am, for the most part, writing to those who already dream and think about having their own off-the-grid place. Maybe. Someday.

There are, of course, many more who dream of having an off-grid cabin already built for them or even an on-the-grid cabin/cottage/small home that is sufficiently removed from the hustle and bustle of deep-city living. Perhaps just moving to a smaller, slower, quiet community like Qualicum Beach or Osoyoos is what they have in mind? Getting out of the city does not have to mean a remote, isolated island where the wolves and the cougars still roam.

But that does sound kinda neat, don’t you think?

Essentially, I am writing for the audience that already appreciates the concept of a cabin, modern, comfortable and connected or maybe one that is just simple, basic and ‘out there’. I am addressing those who feel the city is just getting a bit too intense for them or, perhaps, is no longer as appreciated as it once was. They are seeking a bit more quiet, a bit less stress, someplace a bit more in keeping with their own aging/slowing pace.

It started out that way for me. I was just tired of it all. I just wanted to live more simply. Work less. Spend less. Worry less. Of course, getting here wasn’t simple at all but the goal was to end up living more simply and I think we succeeded to a degree. I may not work any less (I do, actually) but I sure do worry less. And we spend at a fraction of the rate that we once did.

We tend to see our own way of life out here as connected, comfortable, simple, modest and gorgeous with just a dash of challenge and hardship to keep it interesting. And, you know what? I prefer that to full-on comfort.

Many, however, prefer their well-established routines, comfort zones and urban at-hand conveniences. They worked hard for them and they want ’em. And they like where they are. They don’t need to do this ‘hardscrabble’ thing. I understand. Honest. For those who have such a different agenda, I say ‘vivé la difference!’ It is what makes us all interesting.

But I have to say (and you knew there was a ‘but’) that sometimes one needs to step outside the cul de sac to see what else there is. That’s all.

And, as it turned out, when we stepped out we liked what we saw.

The purpose of this blog: Just to state that there was an ‘irritation factor with the cul de sac’ that came first. I needed to move on. That might be an essential part. I don’t know.