To clarify right from the start, we may fit the mold of a “quirky” family, but we don’t entirely conform to stereotypes. Yes, we embrace a unique lifestyle, but we’re not defined by it.
Two years ago, while enjoying ice cream, caring for my newborn daughter, and binge-watching episodes of Tiny House Revolution, I had a life-changing realization. After more than a year of diving into the concepts of minimalism, tiny living, and downsizing, we discovered that this lifestyle could offer substantial benefits for our son, who has various behavioral challenges. Reducing his sensory overload and simplifying his environment has made a remarkable difference in managing his anxiety and ADHD.
Over the next year, we undertook a massive decluttering project, which involved three significant sessions of selling, donating, and discarding items of all kinds—appliances, furniture, clothing, and more—before we felt ready to announce our move. In a mere four weeks, we quit our jobs, sold our 2,000-square-foot farmhouse complete with 15 acres, and purchased a 36-foot fifth-wheel camper. We connected with a family via Airbnb and parked on their land three states away. Our family has always embraced the “Go big or go home” mentality, but in this case, “big” and “home” took on a new meaning.
Now, two years later, I work at a second-chance high school in an urban area while my amazing partner thrives as a stay-at-home dad, “roadschooling” our 6-year-old son. We coined the term “roadschool” to better fit our lifestyle. Our 1.5-year-old daughter, Luna, is an adventurous spirit who climbs, rides bikes, and accompanies us on daily escapades, while our son engages in hands-on learning that highlights his strengths.
What once filled two children’s bedrooms and a playroom is now neatly organized in a bunkhouse at the back of our camper. Our kids had the opportunity to select which toys were essential, limiting their belongings to two fabric bins each, along with some books and dress-up clothes. The process of choosing what to keep was more challenging for us than for them.
Each family member has about 50 pieces of clothing, including shoes (yes, gasp!). I was finally able to part with the bin of clothes I hadn’t worn since before having children, and now I genuinely love every item in my wardrobe. This has been one of my favorite outcomes.
We transformed what once cluttered our kitchen into a streamlined setup: three pots, two pans, four plates, four glasses, four kids’ cups, four sets of silverware, and a few miscellaneous utensils. The joy of being able to clean our entire house, including sanitizing bathrooms and doing laundry, in just 45 minutes is unparalleled. It’s truly a magical life.
What used to take an entire weekend to clean can now be accomplished in under an hour, leaving us with more time to play, explore, and enjoy life. I’ve taken more naps in our hammock over the past two months than I have in my entire adult life. There are no excuses left like “I can’t. I have to clean,” or “Not today; I need to do yard work.” We choose what we want to do, and we can live fully. This lifestyle has granted us incredible freedom and joy.
Even on a single income, we have managed to pay off nearly all our debt and build a savings account. We are currently planning our dream trip out West this summer to explore national parks and major monuments—counting those hours as part of our roadschooling!
Tiny living has empowered us to prioritize what truly matters and to let go of what no longer serves us. “Yes, I would love to catch up over coffee with an old friend.” “No, I won’t be keeping Grandma’s outdated knickknacks.” It’s a chance to pursue our dreams and live with purpose, showing our children the power of sacrifice, determination, and kindness.
While tiny living isn’t for everyone, it’s undoubtedly the best choice we’ve ever made. I no longer sit in carpool lines or juggle multiple practices each week. Instead, we interact with local communities, serve those in need (even as we travel), and teach our kids to recognize and empathize with others. In a world where cruelty often prevails, we aim to raise children who feel empowered to thrive despite adversity. Living small shifts the focus from materialism to service and freedom—liberation from what once held us captive.
Our children participate in survival skills classes, make friends at the park, and even volunteer at a local restaurant that feeds the hungry. It’s a messy, joyful lifestyle with limited space for possessions but ample room for what truly matters, and we cherish that. So yes, perhaps we are those people.
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In summary, embracing a tiny lifestyle has transformed our family dynamic, allowing us to focus on what truly matters while cultivating an environment rich in love, learning, and adventure.