Settling Into Your Space
Here are a few of the things I have discovered about living small:
#1 Make it simple
Have you ever analyzed how many steps it takes to make a bed? I have. In a small space you have the challenge of balancing beauty with function and that can be a challenge. When we first moved into Beulah Grace my bed was filled with pillows and fluff just like it had been in our loft.
Within 2 weeks extra pillows were gone. (We are down to 4 plus 2 small decorative). Within 2 more weeks blankets and the top sheet were also gone. Within 1 more week the extra topper which kept shifting was tossed.
Now I keep it simple. Fitted bottom sheet, top comforter and duvet which folds at the bottom. If I can get everyone off the bed (I am talking about the four cats that LOVE to lay in warm spots) I can make the bed in a matter of moments. Before, it could take me 15 minutes to get everything set straight while crawling around and over the bed numerous times.
This concept also applies to the kitchen. One pot meals have become a specialty. I spend a few moments thinking through the process so I can get the best use out of my equipment and use as few dishes as possible.
#2 Use Paper
Ok, some of you won't like this. Heck, I never thought I would like it. But truth be told, I am loving using paper plates and plastic silverware. Why? I no longer have a dishwasher. Using recycled plates works for us and makes my job a lot easier.
In order to cut down on wasted plates we also use wax paper liners often seen in delis or burger baskets. These little liners work for a million things. Use them to cover an item in the microwave or use them to make a sandwich, either way they provide just the instant help you need. They are also cheap at under .01 cent each.
In my old world I was a "dish-aholic." Today, other than my teapot and teacup, I use paper whenever possible.
#3 Less is More
Originally we thought we needed both a water kettle and a coffee pot on our crowded counter. Now we are down to just an electric kettle? Why? Brian discovered it was easier to simply brew his coffee in his cup using a stainless steel tea filter. Since I always have boiling water (for my incessant tea drinking) it works great. Today he let me pack away the coffee pot to the nether regions of an upper cupboard. We will hold onto it in case guests come but for now it's great to use the counter for cooking.
I have actually started a mental list of items that can be sold or donated from our coach. I simply do not need many of the necessities that were important in our stick and brick home. I don't use the ROKU. I don't use the French Press. I don't use the Extra Towels. As you travel you discover what's important and what is clearly just taking up space!
Here are a few things I would NEVER want to be without!
1. Big Fridge
We absolutely love our residential fridge. True, it draws a lot of power but I love having the space to store food.
2. Large Shower
Our shower rocks. It does double duty holding cat boxes and when needed acting as a home style shower. I am very grateful for the "real feel" of a glass shower.
3. Basement Space
Living in your RV full time means you are traveling with your home. Your basement compartments are basically your garage and every garage needs space to hold tools. The beauty of a "bus style" class a coach is the size of the compartments below your floor and for us, it's Brian's domain.
4. Real Toilet
I like a high quality porcelain throne. Thankfully I now have one!
5. Bedroom Door
We have a air driven pocket door between the bed/bath and the kitchen/living. Why is a door so exciting? Well, try living and working together full time with four cats in 380 square feet and you will know the beauty of a "little separation." Need I say more?