Off-grid float cabin: retirement tiny dream home in BC wilderness

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  • Опубликовано: 28 авг 2024
  • Margy and Wayne Lutz were camping in Coastal British Columbia when they discovered their dream home: the float cabins of Powell Lake. They're not houseboats, but "float cabins", that is, they're permanently anchored to shore.
    Float cabins were first built on Powell Lake as inexpensive and portable homes for loggers and fishermen. Since then they've become regulated and the 200 float cabin owners here these days lease their water lots from the BC government for $500 per year.
    The Lutz's bought their retirement home in 2001 for 35,000 Canadian dollars (about $25,000 USD, at the time), what they considered worth the risk if their experiment in off-grid living didn't workout.
    A few years later they retired early from their school district jobs in Los Angeles, anxious to start living their dream, and moved into their small (420 square feet, plus a 200-square-foot sleeping loft) floating home. At the time it didn't have indoor plumbing so they hiked 4 flights of stairs up the granite cliff to an outhouse (they've since installed a composting toilet indoors).
    Today, the Lutzs live completely off-the-grid. There's no water heater (they boil it on the wood stove as a luxury) and no plumbing. They hand-pump water from the lake (for washing dishes, they remove most food first and use only biodegradable soap and the water is returned to the lake).
    There's no trash pickup. They compost nearly everything. For their energy uses, the Lutzs rely on solar, wind, and thermoelectric power. For heat, they rely on a wood stove (fueled mostly with driftwood) that has been rigged with an experimental thermoelectric system generating a trickle charge to their batteries.
    Their buoyant home doesn't make gardening easy, but Margy has found a way to provide much of the summertime produce. In addition to a hillside potato garden, she created a floating vegetable garden.
    More info on original story: faircompanies.c...
    The Lutzs' blog: powellriverbook...
    "Coastal British Columbia Stories" by Wayne Lutz: www.powellriver...
    On *faircompanies: faircompanies....

Комментарии • 1,6 тыс.

  • @kirstendirksen
    @kirstendirksen  12 лет назад +8

    Very perceptive. Margy filmed it for me. She did an amazing job of capturing so many different elements. And she was great about sending me video/photos they've taken over the past few years. I was particularly grateful for that shot of the swimming bear. After years of living in cities, this was far from my reality.

  • @josephthistle7026
    @josephthistle7026 5 лет назад +38

    I'm moving to Powell river next month everyone says they want to do this it's scary but I'm doing it 53yrs old it's time to make my life better

    • @drmargy
      @drmargy 5 лет назад +2

      We discovered Powell River when we were in our early 50s and moved here after we retired in our mid-50s. Are you thinking about living in town or elsewhere? Are you related to Margaret and Art? - Margy

    • @hollysellers5227
      @hollysellers5227 4 года назад

      Wow!! Lucky you!! Hope you love it!!

    • @jonminnella4157
      @jonminnella4157 4 года назад +1

      How did it work out

    • @josephthistle7026
      @josephthistle7026 4 года назад +2

      @@jonminnella4157 i ended up moving north Ontario ive never been happier thanks for asjung nature lajes rivers and ooen land cheap houses pricing

    • @annydobon8106
      @annydobon8106 3 года назад

      Wow. Can I come with? 🤭

  • @dianenicolelhertzler1622
    @dianenicolelhertzler1622 6 лет назад +1

    There are many days I think that I should move out from the busyness of East coast of the US. Time will tell. Just LOVE the calm and peace and natural setting.

    • @drmargy
      @drmargy 6 лет назад

      We moved from busy Southern California and have loved it here ever since. - Margy

  • @stanhunderwood3374
    @stanhunderwood3374 5 лет назад +1

    As a marina manager I have to mention that there are lots and lots of people living on their BOATS. Like so many retired folks you see in big motorhomes going down the highways, there are people living in boats of all sizes - mostly, sailboats. And the nice thing about a boat is, you're free to change your address at will, and move to another marina - or even a whole different country!

    • @drmargy
      @drmargy 5 лет назад

      If I didn't have a float cabin, a liveaboard in a marina would be a close second. We do have our boats to get around the lake and an ocean boat to explore the BC coast. For us, it's the best of all worlds. - Margy

  • @wilmaknickersfit
    @wilmaknickersfit 8 лет назад +77

    This is one of the most interesting homes and ways of living that I have come across. What a brilliant location and home.

    • @drmargy
      @drmargy 8 лет назад +9

      We thought so when we discovered it. We just knew it was for us. Now, fifteen years later we love it even more. - Margy

    • @drmargy
      @drmargy 5 лет назад +3

      @The Guru of Kang Our logs were repurposed from a logging company float. My guess is they have been in the water for over thirty years, maybe more. Cedar is the preferred wood because it's naturally buoyant and water resistant. The key is to keep a portion of the log above the waterline so it can dry out. One way is to minimize weight on the cabin structure. Even so, logs begin to submerge over time. To raise them back up, we use 55-gallon food grade plastic barrels filled with air tucked underneath. Ever few years we hire a diver to go down and top them off with air. Works well and theoretically can let the logs last forever. - Margy

    • @jamesburkjr2803
      @jamesburkjr2803 4 года назад

      You should check out Freedom Cove. That place is the most interesting living spot I've ever seen.

  • @dianenicolelhertzler1622
    @dianenicolelhertzler1622 6 лет назад +3

    Really love this float home and the simplicity of it. Just enough of modern conveniences but not over the top intrusive and unnecessary ones. I believe it probably enhances ones sense of calm and relaxation as opposed to the everyday life in 2018. Thank you for your post :-)

    • @drmargy
      @drmargy 6 лет назад

      You are so right. We do enjoy the few conveniences we have and the ability to stay in communication via cell phone and Internet (which we installed a year ago). Life is much calmer up the lake for sure. - Margy

  • @adamguymon7096
    @adamguymon7096 6 лет назад +1

    I loved this video. It was different because it wasn't just a Sales Pitch it really described what it is like living in a floating house. You described in detail the benefits to living in a floating house.

    • @drmargy
      @drmargy 6 лет назад

      Thank you. We really enjoy sharing what our life is like up the lake. - Margy

  • @MrPhillerup
    @MrPhillerup 6 лет назад +1

    I couldn't imagine a better home, and the placement is beautiful. Your gamble has certainly paid off big time, and with continued luck will pay additional dividends for the remainder of your lives. Thank you for sharing your lifestyle and dreams.

    • @drmargy
      @drmargy 6 лет назад

      Now we don't even consider it was a gamble. - Margy

  • @vanveen8472
    @vanveen8472 6 лет назад +7

    nice to see the different lifestyles, I grew up in Powell River, and while I love the place I finally moved away because of those long dreary wet winters, I admire these people for their stamina

    • @drmargy
      @drmargy 6 лет назад +3

      And we came here to experience the seasons. So far the winters haven't driven us away. - Margy

  • @pattifoote1714
    @pattifoote1714 6 лет назад +10

    I’ve watched this video about 3 times now. Whenever it pops up and I see it I enjoy their live again. Thank you for being here!😊💚☘️

    • @drmargy
      @drmargy 6 лет назад

      Thanks for taking the time to comment. - Margy

  • @DanceBetterThanMJDid
    @DanceBetterThanMJDid 11 лет назад +1

    This is really cool. I had a friend who had a float home, in of all places, at a sea harbor, in Santa Barbara, CA. He build an A frame cabin on a platform built on oil drums.... Hooked up to cable, and water/electricity, sewer in a spot, normally used for boats.... This was in the eighties, and he had been there for twenty years. In 1983, a huge winter storm damaged the breakwater, and the boats, and the pier. And, his float house. He never rebuilt...But, it was fun while it lasted!

  • @meekhinglim4829
    @meekhinglim4829 4 года назад +1

    I was involved in logging in Sarawak. During our log harvest we have to ask our workers to stay on the raft to keep eyes on the inventory and normally we would build a simple shelter on the log raft and when the logs were sold , the shelter will be transferred to another raft. I really like your concept of putting up a nice house ont he raft in the river. what an enjoyable life you have embraced by the peaceful & clean environment, indeed excellent for retirement !

    • @drmargy
      @drmargy 4 года назад

      We have lots of logs towed down from around our lake. They are transferred to the ocean for the second part of their journey to Vancouver mills and for sale as raw logs. Our cabin's float was once a work platform here on the lake. Our friend bought the used float, took it apart and put it back together with fresh cable and then built the cabin. I like knowing our float logs have a long history. - Margy

    • @meekhinglim4829
      @meekhinglim4829 4 года назад +2

      @@drmargy Keep enjoy doing thing you enjoy, I really feel envious of how constructed your floating house and put it in such a nice environment. Should I say it is just perfect for a retirement life or a get away from city life , if you are a city dweller

  • @Sassyscribe
    @Sassyscribe 11 лет назад +5

    Even though I've known you for years I still found the story fascinating and admire your vision and ability to live life close to nature, and close to each other.

  • @Stephen-ie7uq
    @Stephen-ie7uq 9 лет назад +212

    My life needs a reset. I'm miserable in Toronto. I think a remote cabin on the west coast is calling. Inspiring video, guys.

    • @drmargy
      @drmargy 9 лет назад +8

      Stephen Brennan Thanks for the comment. Once we saw our west coast float cabin that was it. We had to figure out how to live there full time. Actually, it wasn't easy, but well worth all the effort. - Margy

    • @drewsdrawers
      @drewsdrawers 9 лет назад +16

      I'm miserable in toronto too!

    • @tristanblock
      @tristanblock 9 лет назад +6

      Stephen Brennan me too guys... me too :(

    • @davidpedder9048
      @davidpedder9048 9 лет назад +3

      The west cost is indeed beautiful ( when it's not raining )

    • @drmargy
      @drmargy 9 лет назад +2

      +David Pedder We do have amazing summers with just enough rain to keep the forests from drying too bad. Being on the mainland it is drier than the outside coast of Vancouver Island. - Margy

  • @jonathanjoe1364
    @jonathanjoe1364 5 лет назад +1

    A fine cabin and lovely landscape. I think that garden is very creative. Cool video and potato patch.

    • @drmargy
      @drmargy 5 лет назад

      Thanks. We just had the side boards to the raised beds replaced in the garden. After 18 years and all the watering they were rotting through. - Margy

  • @mariansaldo1
    @mariansaldo1 5 лет назад +1

    What a beautiful area! Just stunning. Four flights of stairs to get to the little? No wonder you built the indoor toilet! Wonderful life.

    • @drmargy
      @drmargy 5 лет назад

      And now it is required for the water lease to continue. We tore the outhouse down last summer. - Margy

  • @judya.shroads8245
    @judya.shroads8245 4 года назад +4

    The perfect life in peace, harmony and beauty with nature.

  • @2wheeleddemon999
    @2wheeleddemon999 5 лет назад +6

    Such a beautiful life. My goal in life is to end up with a homestead like this one day.

    • @drmargy
      @drmargy 5 лет назад

      It's a little short of a homestead, but has a few of the qualities like a small garden. - Margy

  • @jamesguilford6807
    @jamesguilford6807 6 лет назад +1

    That's it, advertise this quite serene not overdeveloped area, all over the world, and make sure that it does not stay quite, serene and not overdeveloped for long !
    I would like to extend a special thank you to all the developers and real estate brokers whom have worked tirelessly to turn large parts of the Southern Appalachian region, that was once a very lightly developed region, that was home to peaceful, small, laid back mountain communities, into one of the fastest growing areas of the US, with dozens of small cities, all of which are determined to be the next Atlanta.
    Good going guys; let's make sure that no one in the future, except for maybe the most wealthy among us, has any other option than to live in a never ending concrete and steel jungle; that is freedom after all !

    • @drmargy
      @drmargy 6 лет назад

      The development on our lake has been regulated since 1998. There is a moratorium on any new cabins either on land or float cabins. Leases from the BC government also regulate what can happen within the existing leases. And as far as only wealthy people being able to afford life on our lake, that isn't true. We are all average people with average incomes. - Margy

  • @Bludaizee3
    @Bludaizee3 6 лет назад +3

    Oh man that looks like heaven on earth to me! I had the pleasure of living in a few different float houses years ago and it was some of the happiest times of my life.

    • @drmargy
      @drmargy 6 лет назад +1

      Glad you got to experience it first hand. It's a bit different than a land cabin. - Margy

  • @xBeauGaming
    @xBeauGaming 12 лет назад +7

    It was the audio that gave it away and you dont normally use a tripod. Excellent subject and I really liked the concept. Wonderful job!

    • @arturoskylar9334
      @arturoskylar9334 3 года назад

      i guess im asking randomly but does anybody know a trick to log back into an Instagram account?
      I somehow forgot my account password. I appreciate any tricks you can offer me

  • @TheMM1215
    @TheMM1215 5 лет назад +5

    I love it! I hope to one day retire to an off grid cabin just like this.
    I wish you had shown more of the interior.

  • @dcbeez5956
    @dcbeez5956 5 лет назад +2

    Marge and Wayne, I love your concept, certainly The Good Life" well done to you both. In Australia we don't have these kinds of beautiful and accessible settings where this concept would be as grand, and if we did knowing our government, we would not get a permit to enable us to accommodate such a set up. Tiny house concept in Australia is also twice as expensive+ and what exists is way below ingenuity and unattractive equal to poverty and or less than. God bless you both, so much work you have put into your forever home. Sublime in every way, thank you for the inspiration, encouragement in what can be possible and thank you for opening up and sharing your home for others to be inspired and the possiblities for them. A treasure to be considered.

    • @drmargy
      @drmargy 5 лет назад

      Australia has always been a place I would like to visit. Tiny homes are even starting to be popular just outside of our small town, mainly because a housing shortage. - Margy

  • @SageGypsy
    @SageGypsy 10 лет назад

    My family and I lived in a Float House at Thorne Bay Alaska in the early 60's. The outdoor basket ball court was the newest addition to the school yard at that time. Waving "Hello" to Mr and Mrs Watson, I'm glad I had you for my teachers!!!

  • @travis1816
    @travis1816 6 лет назад +6

    I love rewatching this video. You guys have such a wonderful life, simply amazing.

  • @michaelv2218
    @michaelv2218 6 лет назад +3

    This short film powerfully evokes contentment.

    • @drmargy
      @drmargy 6 лет назад +1

      That is the truth. - Margy

  • @lorianns3475
    @lorianns3475 10 лет назад

    I can't even imagine how it would be to wake up every day with that view. Lucky people.

  • @ceeceety2320
    @ceeceety2320 5 лет назад +1

    Margie Lutz I hope this comment finds you both in good health and still enjoying what I consider to be a dream home. Wow! What I wouldn't give to live like this! We are still 10 yrs. from retirement and have had plans to live tiny for some years now. This is Tammie Miller commenting. I'm trying to convince my husband Tim that we could easily live off of what we would get from early retirement. I've never wanted fancy living conditions, just comfort and nature would suit me beautifully. I will say that I'm a bit tired of the winters here in the mid-west of the US and would prefer to live in temps. close to 75 degrees Fahrenheit, however, I'm pretty sure if I had the kind of beauty that you have where you are, I would manage just fine in winter! Haha! Very envious and happy for both of you to be living such a wonderful life! Peace, love, and light to you.

    • @drmargy
      @drmargy 5 лет назад

      It really works best when both parties really want to live tiny and possibly off the grid. We did retire early, about five years from getting full retirement, but we both had good pensions so it was possible. Our lifestyle isn't as cheap as it looks. Maintenance is very important and that is an ongoing cost. Plus there are the boats, vehicles in town and living costs. But it is worth it for us. We will stay here as long as we are in good health. - Margy

    • @ceeceety2320
      @ceeceety2320 5 лет назад +1

      ​@@drmargy Thank you for replying. Glad you are still enjoying where you are. We both want the same things, absolutely. We don't have children and Tim is a union carpenter so we have a good retirement when the time comes. We are definitely looking to downsize and live an easier lifestyle though. Wishing you good health for many years to come!

  • @AFRICASIAEURO1
    @AFRICASIAEURO1 6 лет назад +9

    I must say this is a lifestyle to be admired. I envy you guys. Good luck to you both.

  •  5 лет назад +4

    This is so awesome. I wish I had the money to do this. I imagine its a peaceful life.

    • @drmargy
      @drmargy 5 лет назад

      When we got our cabin it was inexpensive. Because there's been a moratorium on new ones since 1998 they have gone up in value. - Margy

  • @130June
    @130June 12 лет назад

    This is ingenious. With overpopulation of countries all over the world, a seascape of floating homes might be the future for many of us and less destructive to our wonderful planet.

  • @michaelclarke6402
    @michaelclarke6402 11 лет назад

    Grew up just up the hill in Wildwood and played on the lake all the time. If you have never been to paradise, it is right up the lake. I think we used to roll boulders over those cliffs above your house. People persons will never know the true beauty that exists there. Now I live in a desert and feel homesick on a daily basis. Lakes, ocean, mountains, unreal forests....Like I said, paradise exists and it is all around Margy and Waynes place.

  • @Wayne-fe1ed
    @Wayne-fe1ed 6 лет назад +4

    What an amazing and beautiful way of living. I'm incredibly envious.

  • @talibeauty5254
    @talibeauty5254 5 лет назад +5

    WOW, what a beautiful place to live!
    Thank you for sharing. 😊

    • @drmargy
      @drmargy 5 лет назад +1

      We love the view and how it changes during the seasons. - Margy

    • @clintivy8037
      @clintivy8037 5 лет назад

      Tali Beauty how are you today

  • @williamwilberforce7042
    @williamwilberforce7042 6 лет назад +1

    My wife and I stayed in a floating off-grid, boat-access only, lake cabin on the Oregon Coast. I can certainly see the appeal. We loved it.

    • @drmargy
      @drmargy 6 лет назад

      For people interested in this lifestyle I always recommend trying it out before buying. - Margy

  • @davidterry4152
    @davidterry4152 4 года назад +1

    You have made things as simple as possible. Good for you and yours. I love the lifestyle. Don't listen to the negativity of some comments . Do like you want to and enjoy.

    • @drmargy
      @drmargy 4 года назад

      This lifestyle isn't for everyone. I don't mind negative comments that are honestly given. Trolls I just ignore. Thank you for your positive response. Hope this difficult time finds you safe and well. - Margy

  • @waferlane2548
    @waferlane2548 5 лет назад +5

    I really like what you guys have done out there on the lake...

  • @mamaddoesdinner4977
    @mamaddoesdinner4977 7 лет назад +8

    What a lovely video. Thank you so much for giving us a window into your extra-ordinary life. So very interesting! We are retiring in 4 years and looking into alternative living spaces. You've given me some wonderful ideas 😊

    • @drmargy
      @drmargy 7 лет назад

      When we got close to retiring we looked a lots of options, but we just happened to find floating cabins and they looked really unique. We took a chance and it has worked out really well for us. - Margy

  • @brucekrueger7982
    @brucekrueger7982 5 лет назад +1

    I get it I live almost off grid in the northwest , no TV no internet my back yard is like nat geo TV watching the the daily activity of the wildlife, best thing I ever did

    • @drmargy
      @drmargy 5 лет назад

      It's a beautiful area for sure. - Margy

  • @oohar
    @oohar 4 года назад +2

    Love the rustic ness of tall of this, video included. Boss level these guys

    • @drmargy
      @drmargy 4 года назад

      We have neighbours who are very musical. You can hear them play their instruments and sing on warm summer evenings. - Margy

  • @gRosh08
    @gRosh08 8 лет назад +24

    I'm glad you both managed to upload this for all to see! Thanks!

    • @drmargy
      @drmargy 8 лет назад +3

      +gRosh08 You are welcome. Kirsten was great putting my videos together into a professional presentation. - Margy

    • @gRosh08
      @gRosh08 8 лет назад

      Nicely done.

  • @jerrysmith7166
    @jerrysmith7166 6 лет назад +9

    Stunning beauty, I’d love to live in an area like that

  • @dl7423
    @dl7423 5 лет назад +2

    lady has a great channel - so much to watch and so unique are the dwellings - and this couple is adorable and living the dream that most of us will not allow ourselves to pursue - go after what you want with no regrets - we have a plan for our unique retirement and only time stands in our way

    • @drmargy
      @drmargy 5 лет назад +1

      Kirsten was so kind to create this video from my raw footage and post it on her incredible site. I am so appreciative. We worked hard to have enough retirement funds to do something like this. Made all of the effort well worth it. - Margy

    • @dl7423
      @dl7423 5 лет назад +2

      @@drmargy thank you - we and undoubtedly many others commend both of you - no regrets and peace of mind and helping others is the pinnacle of living

  • @vincentmackay9336
    @vincentmackay9336 5 лет назад +1

    Wow how neat! I would love to give this a try seem like it would entail some work but low to "NO" stress. I think I could live here and be very happy and at peace.Very nice Margy and Wayne you have a very nice home in nature, very beautiful.

    • @drmargy
      @drmargy 5 лет назад

      Thanks. You are right, it does take some work to maintain but doing a little bit at a time makes it more than than a chore. - Margy

  • @TheMrJoeMac
    @TheMrJoeMac 6 лет назад +4

    I'm jealous, what a beautiful and peaceful place to live. can I come stay a summer with you all.. lol. thanks for sharing their story Kirsten.

    • @drmargy
      @drmargy 6 лет назад

      It's kind of funny. We get more visitors here up the lake than we did when we lived in the big city. Especially in summer when more people come to their cabins and use their boats to enjoy the water. - Margy

  • @GypsyGardener2
    @GypsyGardener2 9 лет назад +3

    Good to see this video again ! hope you are both well ! I am planning on a tiny house boat when I retire soon !you inspired me . Thanks

    • @drmargy
      @drmargy 9 лет назад

      +GypsyGardener2 We are doing well. The summer was great, I'm a bit sad to see it go, but we really needed the rain. We have four houseboats on the lake, one small and three large, but none are being used as liveaboards. - Margy

  • @Monstah7
    @Monstah7 11 лет назад

    Awesome!!! this idea has rattled around in my mind for a number of years now.. these folks are living the dream in the most spectacular scenery on the planet.. sooooooooo envious..

  • @sludgegulper
    @sludgegulper 10 лет назад

    I am so envious. What a fantastic location. We live 4,500 ft up in the sierra Nevada (spain) fully off grid, with wonderful views but I would swop tomorrow for your floating dream. Well done.

  • @bobhennis3585
    @bobhennis3585 6 лет назад +16

    margy im glad for you. my friend has 30 acres in colorado an has been going to court for 3 yrs to keep his cabin. right now he uses a generator and an outhouse but the city is working overtime writing new zoning laws to stop him. so sad in america

    • @drmargy
      @drmargy 6 лет назад +3

      Where we live zoning law in rural areas are different than the city laws, but we still have some that have to be complied with. Fortunately being on the grid isn't one of them. - Margy

  • @davidpedder9048
    @davidpedder9048 9 лет назад +3

    Nice to see you guys are living the life and enjoying it.
    Good luck to the both of you.

  • @carboncubss
    @carboncubss 6 лет назад +2

    Margy and Wayne are living my dream, unfortunately not my wife's dream. I am so envious, yet so happy for them both as they seem to truly love living there...as would I.

    • @drmargy
      @drmargy 6 лет назад +1

      That does make it tough. You might try renting a place for a vacation to see if it is something your wife might enjoy. Or find an option that combines the better parts of town life and country life. - Margy

  • @katejackson524
    @katejackson524 4 года назад +1

    Thank you Kirsten. Yet another feast of living to enjoy.

    • @drmargy
      @drmargy 4 года назад +1

      She does excellent work doesn't she. - Margy

    • @kirstendirksen
      @kirstendirksen  4 года назад +1

      Thank you both.

    • @drmargy
      @drmargy 4 года назад

      @@kirstendirksen The thanks all go to you. - Margy

  • @THE1THEONLYBODACIOUS
    @THE1THEONLYBODACIOUS 6 лет назад +3

    I HAVE SEEN POSTED AND DREAMED OF THIS VERY FLOATING CABIN FOR 5 YEARS.

  • @kneeltomemotherfuckers666
    @kneeltomemotherfuckers666 5 лет назад +3

    Beautiful Place! Congrats! and very well Hola! from El Paso Tx. USA

  • @LoriFoster
    @LoriFoster 5 лет назад +2

    My wife wrote many books in our A class RV in a RV park. During the week she wrote and weekends we played around at the park and in town good times.

    • @drmargy
      @drmargy 5 лет назад

      We just too our first RV trip in a Class C to Arizona in January-February. There'll be a book about that too in the future. - Margy

  • @magickcastle
    @magickcastle 5 лет назад +1

    so good, living the natural dream. Quiet stillness, the way life is supposed to be! Working everyday for your sustenance, truly impressive!

    • @drmargy
      @drmargy 5 лет назад

      Thank you. - Margy

  • @debrawolf8458
    @debrawolf8458 8 лет назад +6

    I am 56 and I want to build my own tiny boat home. Living on the water would be amazing.

    • @drmargy
      @drmargy 8 лет назад +1

      +Debra Wolf We bought our cabin when I was 52 and moved there for 6 months of the year when I retired early at 55, and then full time three years later when we became Canadian permanent residents. It's never to late for sure. - Margy

    • @debrawolf8458
      @debrawolf8458 8 лет назад +2

      +Margy Lutz I am retired as well. I looked at a storage shed at a home improvement store for $3200.00. It already has a loft and windows. I'm thinking I could put the shed together with a set of pontoons.

    • @drmargy
      @drmargy 8 лет назад +1

      +Debra Wolf The important thing is to not put too much weight on the floats. A small set of pontoons can be tippy, so be careful that the height of the shed won't make it unsafe in a strong wind or moving on the water if there are waves. Will you keep it moored in a marina?

    • @debrawolf8458
      @debrawolf8458 8 лет назад +1

      +Margy Lutz I'm hoping to find a place I can keep my truck parked.

  • @babytaz4u21963
    @babytaz4u21963 6 лет назад +3

    Your so lucky. I would love to live like you. Beautiful.

  • @ranmarelg
    @ranmarelg 7 лет назад +1

    Just awesome! I first read your book about the cabin a few years ago, and later he second book. I was over-joyed in finding your youtube completely by accident. Wow, great for you guys.

    • @drmargy
      @drmargy 7 лет назад +1

      Glad you enjoyed the book. There are now thirteen in the Coastal BC Stories series written by my husband Wayne Lutz. All are available online in print and ebook formats at most booksellers. - Margy

  • @daro2262
    @daro2262 4 года назад +1

    What a nice & relaxing way to live no hype like city life😊☺😊☺

    • @drmargy
      @drmargy 4 года назад

      We came from the big city and find this much more to our liking. - Margy

  • @MichaelOZimmermannJCDECS
    @MichaelOZimmermannJCDECS 6 лет назад +3

    What a way to live with nature! Love it! Thanks for sharing!

  • @gsolo9515
    @gsolo9515 5 лет назад +3

    how lucky you are...very happy for you guys...

  • @zelphx
    @zelphx 7 лет назад

    I retired early, as well. Still managed to get my STRS retirement... and have NEVER looked back!
    I still keep my credential active, for the occasional money-making opportunity.
    Your life seems like a dream to me.

  • @ITsupportian
    @ITsupportian 10 лет назад

    reminds me me of vacation with my grandma in no grid in the philippines every summber... most cherish moments of my childhood.

  • @kd1s
    @kd1s 10 лет назад +4

    That is a totally awesome place. I'd need a net feed though. I suppose I could engineer a system to get net service to the place with a couple of antenna; one up on that cliff the other in civilization. Pretty easy to sling data that way using just plain old 802.11 networking.
    But I do love that the place is completely self sufficient. And on the water. One of the best times of my life was back in the 1980's - went up to a little house on an island in the middle of a lake in New Hampshire. Had a dock and all - we spent time chasing guppies and me, I mastered the art of sleeping on the dock.

  • @merlachner
    @merlachner 10 лет назад +5

    This is my favorite tiny home. I would love to live there

  • @alu7200
    @alu7200 10 лет назад

    one of the best location and home you have got Margy....you know its a dream come true for live in such an awesome place in the middle of whole mother nature. i would wish to come to your place on my vacation...

  • @scottlavoie5405
    @scottlavoie5405 4 года назад +1

    Beautiful place!! I plan on doing the same thing very soon I pray, pinching and saving for a long time now!!

    • @drmargy
      @drmargy 4 года назад

      We had to wait until we were close to retirement, wish we'd worked something out sooner. - Margy

  • @janjbowman
    @janjbowman 6 лет назад +10

    Your float cabin is amazing.

    • @drmargy
      @drmargy 6 лет назад

      Thank. We keep trying to improve it to make it a better place to live. - Margy

  • @cindy2252
    @cindy2252 10 лет назад +7

    A stunningly beautiful environment...

  • @ronaleesyme1346
    @ronaleesyme1346 3 года назад +1

    Hi Margy ...great to see you both in video and your cabin! Love it!

    • @drmargy
      @drmargy 3 года назад

      Thanks. It is a very special place for us. - Margy

  • @MrMarkAMartin
    @MrMarkAMartin 4 года назад +1

    I stumbled across this after reading Wayne's book "Up the Lake" - amazing to have good visuals closely match my imagination after reading the book.

  • @drmargy
    @drmargy 9 лет назад +7

    AL eng - We do stay at the cabin in the winter. We have the wood stove for heat and the lake does not freeze because it is so deep and because of the near sea level elevation the temperature is somewhat moderated. Our hillside patch doesn't get any bear activity, but the little critters love to eat the tender leaves. - Margy

    • @cybertrav
      @cybertrav 5 лет назад

      I live in Florida and I am jealous of your peaceful lifestyle. God Bless!

  • @GENECARP
    @GENECARP 5 лет назад +3

    Well done Margy....

  • @lynnescaddan8919
    @lynnescaddan8919 3 года назад +1

    Wow to live of grid,these people are able bodied. Being mobility impaired I couldn't live that way, it looks fantastic tho. What a great way of living

    • @drmargy
      @drmargy 3 года назад

      It would be challenge. We retired early so we could enjoy it for the longest possible time. - Margy

  • @jsbhmm8232
    @jsbhmm8232 5 лет назад +1

    You are so lucky that you both share the same dream. My spouse isn't as enthralled with the idea of off-grid living as I am. Sigh.

    • @drmargy
      @drmargy 5 лет назад

      It makes a huge difference to agree on a lifestyle like this. We have always been outdoors kinds of people.

    • @time2go265
      @time2go265 5 лет назад

      time for a divorce life is to short to be told what you can or cant do. fuck em

  • @Lucasryan
    @Lucasryan 12 лет назад +3

    Absolutely amazing and such an inspiration to me. Your home is beautiful! The last bit where you were talking about being able to truly appreciate nature combined with those spectacular images really moved me... Thank you:)

  • @janiznick
    @janiznick 6 лет назад +3

    This is amazing, I love people like this.

  • @huskypilot6305
    @huskypilot6305 5 лет назад +1

    Margy I can’t believe you have replied to so many comments, given that you have no internet. I love your home and your lifestyle, hope you both enjoy many happy years on the lake. PS. No reply required, your wonderful 😀❤️

    • @drmargy
      @drmargy 5 лет назад

      This video was made seven years ago. In the beginning, I wrote comments when we were in town. For the last three years we've had satellite Internet through Xplornet. We have limited data but it's plenty for our needs. It also gives us a better cell phone connection now that there is wifi calling on our iphones. That's a huge safety feature. - Margy

  • @TinkerTom
    @TinkerTom 6 лет назад +1

    That's quite the house. I think the thermo-electric generator attached to the stove adds a wonderful flair

    • @drmargy
      @drmargy 6 лет назад +1

      Unfortunately it has not survived the test of time. It's a great concept but this model was too "cutting edge" to really last. I think fluctuating temperatures on the side of the stove overheated one or more modules and it quit operating after about two years of service.

    • @TinkerTom
      @TinkerTom 6 лет назад +1

      Bummer. Still though, quite inspiring seeing this experimental generator in use; even if they don't work out in the long term, sharing this teaches everybody something

  • @007kidronnie
    @007kidronnie 5 лет назад +3

    this place is really nice . i wish i was living their .

  • @j.t.6700
    @j.t.6700 6 лет назад +3

    WOW
    Outstanding option to the rat race!
    Thanks for sharing the details with us all.
    Just really nice.
    How's the fishing??
    Great I'm sure.

  • @meadydoheny
    @meadydoheny 12 лет назад

    solar panels (800-1,000 watt range) to pump and heat water and charge appliances, animals and gardens with a roof rain water collection system....composting waste in place of a costly, maintenance-requiring septic system...etc. these videos give me the inspiration to realize i can live debt free and with VERY few bills if i so chose

  • @judyhobday5334
    @judyhobday5334 9 лет назад

    This is the kind of life I would have liked if I had a companion (husband) to live it with. My late husband and I had a few acres of trees far from neighbors, but had all the comforts and jobs to go to and often we talked of getting further out after retirement.

    • @drmargy
      @drmargy 9 лет назад

      judy hobday I must admit that it makes it a lot easier to have a partner to share this life with. I hate to think about doing it on my own, but where we live it would still be possible. - Margy

  • @macman30331
    @macman30331 10 лет назад +3

    this takes 'living on the lake' to a whole new level

  • @robertjohnston1731
    @robertjohnston1731 5 лет назад +3

    Wonderful retirement living. Very envious!

  • @josejr.canillas7704
    @josejr.canillas7704 4 года назад +1

    Nice video, nice Off grid float cabin, retirement tiny dream home. I love it. I enjoy watching.

    • @drmargy
      @drmargy 4 года назад

      I took the raw footage, but all of the video credit goes to Kirsten who compiled it in such a compelling manner. - Margy

  • @jordanbrandt7061
    @jordanbrandt7061 6 лет назад +1

    You guys are awesome, what a cool place you have! I wish more people could understand that having more is not better, you have a small space but its an amazing place. I've been to Powell lake when I was a kid, a very beautiful place. When I get older this is my dream is to be off the grid and in nature. I'm impressed that you only need 2 6V batteries to power your house, you must be very efficient to only need that much power.

    • @drmargy
      @drmargy 6 лет назад

      That isn't the case now. We have two separate sets of batteries that we can alternate between, using one while the other charges. In each location there are eight 6V batteries connected in series and then in parallel to make a 12V. The system did start with just two 6V batteries and one small panel, but that lasted for only a few months. Since that beginning we've been able to grow the system as our power needs have increased.

  • @jamesmcallister5494
    @jamesmcallister5494 5 лет назад +3

    You should keep the saw sharp,,It will run cooler and last much longer,plus you will get more done in a lot quicker time,

    • @drmargy
      @drmargy 5 лет назад

      Thanks for the help. We have learned a lot since this video was made. - Margy

  • @bethbartlett5692
    @bethbartlett5692 5 лет назад +16

    4 flights of stairs - to the Out House! No wonder they remodeled!

    • @61dingbat
      @61dingbat 5 лет назад +3

      By the time you get to the top you've already shit yourself!

    • @charlotteskiftun753
      @charlotteskiftun753 4 года назад

      Good exercise.....

  • @keithstrader8248
    @keithstrader8248 4 года назад +2

    Love the floating gardens and sheds, Add about 5 more solar panels, converter, and sets of batteries and I'm in.😉👍

    • @drmargy
      @drmargy 4 года назад

      That type of system would work on land. For a float cabin, weight management is extremely important. We have two separate systems. On the cabin deck there are 8 deep cycle batteries and in the adjacent converted boat there are 8 additional batteries. We alternate between the two systems so one can recharge while the other is in operation. - Margy

  • @sjenkins88
    @sjenkins88 11 лет назад

    I could totally live there. Watching the four seasons go by without a mortgage and little to no energy/utility bills - what more could you possibly ask for? Ms. Lutz has the right idea - watching nature using their sliding glass doors as a framed "window on the world". And what an amazingly beautiful world it is there in BC!!

  • @polygamous1
    @polygamous1 6 лет назад +3

    Brilliant best wishes to you both have a long n happy lives n thanks for posting

  • @eire3261
    @eire3261 6 лет назад +3

    Beautiful way to live, dat would be my dream to live somewhere like dat.

  • @phillipsmom6252
    @phillipsmom6252 10 лет назад

    Really cute. I love people like this. Thinking outside the box. That's what makes the world go round..........

  • @lonerglide
    @lonerglide 11 лет назад

    Just had to thank god for letting people like u live in such beautiful nature, I cant even begin to imagine what its like to be there yr round, thX for sharing,, great video!

  • @markanddanielsmom
    @markanddanielsmom 9 лет назад +9

    Thank you for sharing simple and rewarding life style best wishes to you just beautiful ;)

  • @YoutubeBlocksMyComments
    @YoutubeBlocksMyComments 5 лет назад +22

    "And give it about 6 rotations"
    *Rotates it 14 times*

    • @drmargy
      @drmargy 5 лет назад +3

      As I explained to Changing Man and Drunken Hamster below, it takes six handle turns to make one drum rotation. You can read more about it in the replies to their comments. - Margy

  • @meadydoheny
    @meadydoheny 12 лет назад

    you guys are awesome. i'm 25 years old and work on an oil rig. i wanna save up for an off-grid setup, paid in full up front. mortgages and electricity bills are a thing of the past for like-minded people

  • @elwelch3
    @elwelch3 11 лет назад

    What a beautiful way of life. The floating garden, potatoes high up on the hill, and the separate writing room are just wonderful. You both have satisfying occupations, and plenty of wildlife to experience. In a transitionary period myself, you've given me lots to think about. Thank you.