So, let me set the record straight before anyone jumps to conclusions about our family. Sure, we might fit the mold of those quirky parents with kids named things like “Wingspan” and “Banjo,” but trust me, we’re not that stereotypical.
A couple of years ago, while indulging in ice cream and nursing my newborn daughter, an idea struck me as I binge-watched Tiny House Revolution. After a year of diving deep into tiny living, minimalism, and downsizing, I realized this lifestyle could benefit our son, who faces multiple behavioral challenges. Less clutter and fewer distractions have significantly helped his sensory processing, anxiety, and ADHD.
The next year was a whirlwind of decluttering. We held three major sessions to sell, donate, and toss everything from furniture to clothes. Eventually, we were ready for a big life change. In just four weeks, we quit our jobs, sold our spacious farmhouse, and bought a 36-foot fifth-wheel camper. We even connected with a family through Airbnb and set up camp on their land three states away. We’ve always embraced the “go big or go home” mantra, but this time, “big” and “home” took on a whole new meaning.
Now, two years later, I teach at a second-chance high school in the inner city while my amazing husband thrives as a stay-at-home dad, “roadschooling” our six-year-old son. We decided to call it roadschooling instead of homeschooling because it just felt more us. Our rambunctious one-and-a-half-year-old, Lily, climbs everything, rides bikes, and joins us on our daily escapades, while our son utilizes his strengths for hands-on learning.
What used to fill two kids’ bedrooms and a playroom is now neatly organized in a small bunkhouse in our camper. The kids chose their favorite toys, each having two fabric bins of “stuff” along with their books and dress-up clothes. Surprisingly, they handled the selection process better than we did.
As for clothing, we each own around 50 pieces, including shoes (yes, gasp!). I finally ditched the tote of clothes I had been clinging to since before having kids and found joy in every item I kept! We’ve streamlined our kitchen essentials down to just three pots, two pans, four plates, and a handful of utensils. Honestly, you haven’t lived until you can clean your entire home—dishes, bathrooms, and all—in under 45 minutes. It’s quite the glamorous life.
Cleaning used to consume our weekends, only to be undone in seconds by our little ones. Now, it takes less than an hour, leaving us free to play, hike, and nap in the hammock without the guilt of chores hanging over us. The freedom to prioritize what we really love has been so liberating! Despite living on a single income, we’ve managed to pay off most of our debt and even save for our dream trip out West this summer, which will double as a roadschooling adventure.
This tiny lifestyle has allowed us to embrace what truly matters and say no to unnecessary clutter. “Yes, I’d love to meet up for coffee, old friend!” and “No, Mom, I really don’t need Grandma’s vintage knickknacks.” We’re living life with purpose, showing our kids the importance of kindness, sacrifice, and determination.
While tiny living isn’t for everyone, it’s the best decision we’ve made. We skip the chaotic carpool lanes and after-school practices, opting instead to engage with our community. We want our kids to recognize and empathize with those in need, especially in a world that seems increasingly driven by negativity. Living this way shifts the focus from materialism to service and freedom.
Our kids are learning survival skills, making friends at the park, and volunteering at a local restaurant that feeds those in need. It’s a beautiful, messy life with plenty of room for what truly matters, and we wouldn’t have it any other way. So, yeah, I guess we are those people after all.
For those looking into starting their own journey, consider checking out resources like Make a Mom for at-home insemination options, including their re-usable kits. If you’re curious about how it all works, take a look at this guide. And for couples embarking on their fertility journey, this resource is invaluable. For more information on IVF, Healthline offers great insights.
In summary, our transition to tiny living has transformed our family dynamic, allowing us to focus on experiences rather than possessions. It has brought freedom, joy, and a renewed sense of purpose to our lives.
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