Who were they before? Off Grid with Doug and Stacy
Welcome to the world of Doug and Stacy, a dynamic duo who took the road less traveled and transformed their lives in the most remarkable way. Nestled in the heart of nature, in an 1800s-style log home they built with their own hands, Doug and Stacy have embarked on a journey that is nothing short of inspiring. Living off the grid and embracing the pioneer lifestyle in the 21st century, they’ve spent the last decade mastering the art of homesteading without the reliance on public utilities. Their life is a testament to the power of living closely with nature, preserving the old ways while innovating with a modern twist.
Like many of us, Doug and Stacy’s journey began in a place of familiarity – feeling the weight of stress, battling health issues due to toxic food, living in debt, and constantly feeling under the weather. The turning point came when they decided to take control of their destiny, selling everything they owned to purchase 11 acres of land with cash. This bold move was the first step toward growing their own food, achieving better health, and laying the foundation for a life of self-reliance and intentional living.
Through their adventures (and misadventures), Doug and Stacy have accumulated a wealth of knowledge and experience in all things homesteading and off-grid living. So, let’s follow their story!
Rediscovering the Dream: Leaving Suburbia Behind
Doug and Stacy’s story isn’t one of overnight success or instant gratification. It’s a tale of two people who dared to question the status quo and pursue a dream that many deemed unconventional. Before they became the beloved faces of “Off Grid with Doug and Stacy”, they were just like any other suburban couple, navigating the demands of modern life.
In the early days, Doug was entrenched in the corporate world, while Stacy dedicated her time to the healthcare industry. Their lives were a whirlwind of deadlines, commutes, and endless to-do lists. Yet, despite their outward success, they felt a growing sense of discontentment gnawing at their souls.
A Yearning for More: The Call of the Wild
Doug and Stacy’s journey into off-grid living didn’t happen overnight. It was a gradual awakening, fueled by a deepening awareness of the environmental impact of their previous lifestyle. They longed for something more meaningful, something that resonated with their values and connected them to the earth.
From City Lights to Country Nights: Embracing Off-Grid Living
In 2011, Doug and Stacy made the courageous decision to leave behind the comforts of suburban life in St. Louis, Missouri, and embrace off-grid living full-time. They traded the hustle and bustle of the city for the tranquility of the Missouri Ozarks, where they purchased a piece of land to call their own.
Building a Haven: From Log Cabin to Homestead
Their early days off the grid were anything but easy. From learning how to build their log cabin to establishing gardens and raising livestock, Doug and Stacy faced numerous challenges along the way. Yet, with determination and perseverance, they transformed their land into a self-sufficient haven that would sustain them for years to come.
In the quiet serenity of their homestead, Doug and Stacy’s everyday life unfolds in an harmonious rhythm, deeply rooted in the pioneer lifestyle they chose. With the gentle glow of oil lanterns illuminating their evenings and the comforting warmth of a wood cook stove filling their home, they navigate each day with simplicity and purpose. Eschewing modern conveniences such as solar or wind power, they embrace a self-reliant existence, tending to their diverse array of animals with care and devotion. From the gentle bleating of sheep to the clucking of chickens and the quacking of ducks, their homestead is alive with the sounds of farm life.
Went to a restaurant in Glenwood Canyon Colorado and sat in a random seat….
Stacy says, “Did you read that behind you?” pic.twitter.com/ZclD8Hisw5
— Doug and Stacy (@DougandStacy) June 9, 2024
In addition to their animal companions, Doug and Stacy are also avid beekeepers, tending to their hives and harvesting honey from the them. Doug’s mastery extends beyond the homestead as he effortlessly guides a horse and buggy through the surrounding countryside, embodying the timeless skills of a bygone era.
Their commitment to sustainability is evident in every aspect of their lifestyle, from their 3000-gallon rain catchment system that sustains their log cabin to their meticulously tended raised bed gardens and Back to Eden Garden, providing them with nourishment for fermenting and supporting their dedication to living a healthy, holistic lifestyle. Each day brings new challenges and joys, but through it all, Doug and Stacy find fulfillment in their connection to the land and each other, living out their pioneer dreams in the 21st century.
Sharing the Journey: Inspiring Others
As Doug and Stacy honed their skills and embraced their new way of life, they felt compelled to share their experiences with others. They launched their YouTube channel, “Off Grid with Doug and Stacy”, as a way to document their journey, and inspire others to pursue a simpler, more sustainable lifestyle.
With over three decades of expertise in health and nutrition, Stacy embodies the role of an holistic life coach, guiding individuals toward wellness and vitality. On the other hand, Doug’s journey as a self-taught carpenter and homesteader, coupled with his knack for shepherding, reflects his deep-rooted passion for craftsmanship and sustainable living.
Together, they share a common goal: empowering others to embrace self-reliance and sustainability. Their dynamic partnership extends beyond the confines of their homestead, as they travel across the US, gracing homesteading and prepper conferences with their insights and wisdom. Furthermore, they’re gearing up to launch educational classes right on their own homestead, providing hands-on learning experiences for those eager to embark on their own journey toward self-sufficiency.
The Road Less Traveled: Embracing Challenges with Resilience
Over the years, Doug and Stacy have encountered their fair share of setbacks and hardships. From harsh winters to unexpected setbacks, they’ve weathered each storm with resilience and a sense of humor. Their willingness to share both the triumphs and the tribulations of off-grid living has endeared them to audiences worldwide.
Living the Dream: Finding Fulfillment in Simplicity
Today, Doug and Stacy continue to live off the grid, tending to their homestead and sharing their wisdom with a global audience. Their story serves as a reminder that true fulfillment can be found not in material possessions or societal expectations, but in the simple joys of nature, community, and self-sufficiency.
In a world filled with noise and distractions, Doug and Stacy’s journey stands as a testament to the power of following your dreams, embracing change, and reconnecting with the natural world. As they often say, ‘The best time to start living your dream life is now’.
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