Wendy admits that living off the grid has its difficulties. For example, the Johnston's power usually goes down a few times a year. However, Wendy reflects, "The funny thing is that these often turn out to be some of our best times as a family. The power outages have an unexpected way of bringing us closer together. We read books and play games by candlelight, or we. snuggle together and tell stories. Living off the grid entails sacrifices, and is certainly not for everyone. But for the thousands with rewards that can't be matched by the conveniences and luxuries of life on the grid. .