When I became a solo homesteader one and a half years ago, I moved into my 9x12' (2.75x3.6m) shed and did not have much time to really plan things out because of my situation. I did not think I would still be in the shed, but I am quite comfortable in my tiny quarters.
I've improved things over the several months and have made my tiny abode about as comfortable as I possibly can.
However, there is a laundry list of things that I need to take care of which I simply cannot find the time, money, or motivation to tackle. These are super important issues to take care of, but I reached a level of comfort that really discourages putting forth any more effort into my living quarters.
My Biggest Procrastination: Insulation
When I moved into my shed, I had about two weeks to pack my belongings and exit my ex's RV. This left barely any time to set up anything. I did not get a chance to insulate, and its been a challenge keeping the shed warm and cool. At night, it gets down to about 50s F (10s C) which isn't bad, but there were nights where it got down to the 30s (0s C) because of my heater malfunctioning.
In the summer, its gotten up to 95F (35C) and at that point I just go to town to the library or cafe to cool down. So, its a problem.
But to insulate, I will have to purchase the insulation, move all of my stuff out, and install all of the insulation, then move all my stuff back in. It will be a pain and a mess!
My 2nd Biggest Procrastination: No Indoor Plumbing
This one took some getting used to, but I don't mind it so much these days. I have no indoor running water. Instead, I use a large jug with a tap and a basin underneath for indoor water, and I have a wash station outdoors that is connected by hose to my well.
For my bathroom, I use an outhouse. And for showers, I have an outdoor propane heated camping shower. For some reason, I cannot get the propane to ignite, so I have to fix that too, yet another procrastination, so its been cold showers for me! But they feel pretty good in the warm Arizona sunshine.
Why the Procrastination?
Well, I have put other priorities in front of these. My biggest priority is getting the garden going full strength. I have a very large garden that makes a ton of food, and that has been the center of my efforts. I also have a big reveal....
I am moving into a canvas tent!
The biggest reason I have not worked on my tiny house issues is because this winter, I am moving out of this space and "upgrading" to a very large canvas tent!
This has always been a dream of mine, to live in a canvas tent with a wood burning stove and do it like they did in the pioneer days. I am a pioneer at heart and am learning the old timer skills of living, all valuable skills in my opinion.
But I don't want to live in a square four walled tent, rather, I am getting a 20' (6.1m) BELL TENT! I have always wanted to live in a circular space, and I am making it happen this year!
For me, living in one of these is a dream come true. I will have a ton of space, and I plan to have the wood burning stove and propane heater for heat. In the summer, well I haven't quite figured out cooling, so if you have any ideas, let me know!
I also plan to have a sink plumbed in, a small fridge, and will continue to use an outhouse and also will build an enclosed shower station.
I could go on with more challenges and procrastinations, but this is enough for one day 😊
Thanks for reading!
Regina Cal, Maximum Off Grid
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