Hello all

My name is Aaron. I live in the woods, in southeastern Ohio, with my three kiddos. We are working toward becoming self sufficient, and much less dependant on the "normal" needs of modern life. We put out a large garden, every spring, and harvest every fall. We have almost 2k watts of solar power, and heat our home with wood. We are not primitive. We just choose to live a simpler life.

On the homestead we have some modern devices. Of course, we have internet, outside electricity, and a landline phone. Also, I am a licensed ham radio operator. (General class) I have a small woodworking shop, that I am hoping to make into some sort of a business. With the kiddos in school, and me working the homestead, we are always busy.

Why? I've been a pipefitter for about fourteen years. Over that time, I have been in the bottom of acid tanks, inside of boilers, and on top of the tallest smokestack that almost any coal burning power plant has to offer. I've worked out of town, and out of state, for months at a time. I realized that I was working so hard for a family that I was never able to see. I missed a few important moments, while my older two were young. I decided that I wouldn't miss any, with my youngest.

It was a little difficult, at first. Of course, the income being reduced, was an adjustment that had to be made. We had to live within our means. But after a few months, we settled into a rhythm of peace through necessity. Life was easier! Its been a long road, and I'm sure there will be more bumps to deal with. Follow along, if you will, to see that you too can have an easier life.