We built everything from the ground up. A water system, a composting toilet, chicken coops, and a way to cook meals over a fire. It was hard. It was raw. It was real. The kids called it “Camp Forever.”
We faced a tough winter—frozen pipes, unexpected arguments, and doubt. But spring brought wildflowers, a greenhouse built from scavenged windows, and a stronger sense of purpose.
We weren’t trying to disappear—we just wanted to live differently. On our terms.
Then, unexpectedly, a man in a black SUV pulled into our driveway. He said he was with a documentary crew, filming stories about people redefining the American dream. We were skeptical, but after some thought—and the kids’ excitement—we agreed.
They filmed everything, even the hard parts. When the documentary aired, it was called Back to the Dirt. And to our surprise, people responded. Emails came in from all over the world—not asking how to copy us, but thanking us for proving life could be lived differently.
We eventually wrote a book. Not a guide to going off-grid, but a story about trusting your instincts, and finding courage in change. The response was overwhelming—not because the book was perfect, but because it was honest.
Soon, we built a small guest cabin. People began booking stays—some for a weekend, others for much longer. They planted things, sat in silence, and rediscovered themselves in the stillness. One guest called it “The Reboot Cabin.” The name stuck.
And then, life reminded us how fragile it can be. Our youngest, Noah, got sick. It was serious, and we had to return to city hospitals, bright lights, and waiting rooms. He recovered, thankfully—but it taught us balance.
We installed better systems. Internet for doctor visits. Trips into town for homeschooling groups. We realized that choosing a different life doesn’t mean cutting off from the world. It just means choosing what matters most.
We don’t claim to have it all figured out. But what we do know is this: The best changes often come from quiet questions. From wondering if life could look different—and having the courage to find out.
So if you’re feeling stuck, tired, or like life’s gotten too loud… maybe it’s time to listen to that little whisper that says, “What if?”
Because sometimes, the smallest ideas can grow into something that feels like home.