off the grid

Risking it All – Living Off the Grid TV Series

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“American’s have become accustomed to what is considered essential for a good quality of life. Running water, electricity, central heat and air, a spacious home with a fully stocked pantry and at least two cars in the garage is considered ideal. So why would three families decide to turn their backs on modern conveniences to live off the grid?

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Off the Grid – Inside the Movement

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“I traveled around America meeting these extraordinary people and writing about their lives. Above all I wanted to find out WHY they live off the grid. This film includes interviews with some of the characters (including author Carolyn Chute) from my book – OFF THE GRID – INSIDE THE MOVEMENT FOR MORE SPACE, LESS GOVERNMENT, AND TRUE INDEPENDENCE IN MODERN AMERICA (Penguin, August 2010).”

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My Off-the-Grid Building Odyssey

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In building a sustainable house, at 7,500 feet, out of puddled adobe, strawbales, and earthbags, Kristina Orchard-Hays ’95 drew on the independent spirit and creative thinking skills she acquired at Bryn Mawr.
In building a sustainable house, at 7,500 feet, out of puddled adobe, strawbales, and earthbags, Kristina Orchard-Hays ’95 drew on the independent spirit and creative thinking skills she acquired at Bryn Mawr.

“In the wake of both personal and national tragedy, I decided it was time to follow Thoreau’s dictum and simplify. Clearly, my life of quiet desperation had to change. As I sifted through the complexities of my daily routine, I noticed a recurring problem—my struggles to house myself.

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