Challenges of Living Off the Grid in Sweden

Episode one hundred and thirty two, in which we're struggling in the cold.

This is a vlog about our struggles and joys of living off the grid in the forests of Jämtland, Sweden.

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Take care,
Tova, Mathias and Ivar

[joanies]

While I can't speak for others, I do not get tired of any topic about your lifestyle. I am constantly amazed by your perseverance, creativity, and constant pursuit of knowledge on how to build, repair, and maintain your homestead. Many people go into this lifestyle without a full understanding of what will be required... you are just keeping it real.

I have to say when the shots of your cabin appeared, it made me smile! Hopefully, next year, it will be move in ready... and if not yet, you'll be that much closer still.

I really enjoy watching your son growing up. He expresses his joy so easily, he's very well mannered, smart as a whip, inquisitive, playful... and just plain cute!

Sending light and love, and wishes for the most benevolent outcome to your family in this harsh winter. ✨️💖✨️

[chickadee-]

What a fine son you have. It is a pleasure watching him grow. Greetings from the southern Appalachians of the USA.

[jamieloom]

It is a pleasure to watch Ivar having a wonderful time sliding in his snow cave, learning to ski and riding his bike. While you are concerned with surviving the very cold winter, he's having an excellent childhood thanks to you both.

[organicgal]

That miniature was so lovely ❤. That was a special gift that you will treasure. Try to keep warm 😊

[britzel]

Your lil guy is such a great helper, so precious with his whittle snow shovel❤
Wow, that minature is amazing 👏

[driftwud]

what a very good child. so obvious he was very well brought up. How time flies! its already 3 years since I started following Talasbuan.

[ginettenielsen]

Thank you for sharing your lives so honestly. I noticed on your faces some sort of sorrow. I hope you are alright. You have given your online community so much to think about. So many issues around homesteading. I am in awe of how bloody hard you both work every day to stick to your commitment of homesteading. I see your successes and your missteps, not failures, but definitely challenges that come from learning as you go. I appreciate your ability to bounce back, to follow your dreams and that you are giving Ivar an incredible childhood. He's a delightful little boy, with the freedom to play and learn along side of his parents. What a gift you are giving him. Whatever is troubling you, I hope that it is fixable. Sincerely, Gin from Canada.

[tbarton]

Duvet, feather quilt, My mother's family came from Norway and Sweden. Landed in Minnesota.
I have a very old feather blanket that my mother gave me. I don't use it because the silk like outer covering has rips in the seem so feathers are getting out. I need to fix it but don't want to ruin it with a needle. It's so beautiful.

I love the miniature. Wish i was that talented. Whoever sent that to you truly knows your setup. So sweet of them.

[ewaeg]

Stor respekt till er som år efter år orkar leva som ni lär - finns många som "låtsaslever" det ni gör på riktigt! Och att få följa Ivars uppväxt med frihet och närhet till både natur, djur och sin familj är det man önskar alla barn. Tack för att vi får följa ert liv 🥰!

[trudyschaffer]

It is an honor to be a Patreon on this channel. It oddly gives me a more committed view into your world. If anyone comments they are “bored” with the constant conversation about the importance of temperature, it just shows they are not paying attention- for they clearly not taking note of the temperature, and to to the critical nature it plays in your live does. You continue to fascinate me, and for that I am grateful.

[irmibullinger]

I never get tired of watching Ivar play in the snow. But I hold my breath when he is near the creek shoveling snow!

[heart]

Ivar growing so fast, im watching him since his birth vlog and now he is running around and a little helper, God bless him with good health always, likewise to Mom and Dad.

[earthangel]

Ivar stole the show this time around. His magical world view is the pathway to the pure joy only experienced by living In the NOW . Such a blessing to let go of all things adult and follow his lead.

That miniature is a true gift ftom the heart and a beautiful work of art.

You both work so hard Mathias and Tova . Your dedication to living life in harmony with Nature is as inspirational as it is mind blowing.

I loved seeing your future cabin home on the hill. It is a beacon of hope for a more comfortable future for your beautiful family.

Where I live, the snowpack is at only 60% of normal. We have been in a freeze thaw pattern for months. I haven't needed to use my woodstove since January because the temperature outside is not subfreezing. My big woodstove makes my living area too warm otherwise and zaps the humidity from my air. I end up needing a humidifier or I'll get a bloody nose and lots of static electricity.
Spring is coming!

[justoneacre]

I never get tired about you discussing the weather. Every5hing you do is so practical and interesting. I live in the south-west of Western Australia and the temperature yesterday was 40C and today it was 38C. We both live in extreme climates.

[viriato]

The sound of the snow crunching under foot confirms that it's well below freezing!

[karenhantsche]

Ivar is so grown up looking! He listens so well.

[susannokovic]

It is so nice when you put the words on the screen to see what Ivar is saying! He is such a beautiful smart boy! He is also going to be kind, just like his parents!

[meriena]

- It's real warm today. It's -4.
- I am sweating.
😂😅 That was funny.
I am sending you warm hugs and wishes from the Balkans, sweetest family. I was so happy to see the update and you well and smiling. Praying for you ❤

[nancylagoyda]

I cannot even imagine how hard you have to work in the winter months! Even though it is hard work it is a beautiful peaceful life. I admire you for all your efforts! ❤

[karinbreidel]

Can't say I would choose to live in such a harsh climate despite the incredible beauty of it all. The sound of your little river is possibly the most beautiful soothing sound ever, murmuring and gurgling, just lovely. I'm rather glad, though, that where I live, (Austria) the sounds of the first birdsongs are beginning to be heard, the first signs of spring 🫠🫠🤗🤗 Look after yourselves, lovely family, you do look a bit tired 💖 and yes, your project would be much easier with a community, maybe the right people will cross your path?