If there is anything that the recent recession taught us, it’s that many Americans are living beyond their means.
Whether it’s living in a house that’s too big, owning too many things that cost more in upkeep than makes financial sense, or carrying debt instead of building savings, it is difficult for many people to maintain the “American dream.”
That’s why Tammy Strobel chose to change the definition of the American Dream.
Tammy and her husband found themselves living beyond their means in a cluttered two bedroom apartment, constantly stressed over the burden of $30,000 in student debt loans, and stuck in jobs they didn’t find fulfilling. They decided something had to change, and the solution was to simplify their lives.
Since then, they have given away over 90% of their possessions and found the happiness their life was missing, all in a tiny house on wheels.
Although it’s not what most people think of when you say “RV,” their non-traditional home built on a trailer has given them the freedom and peace of mind that encompasses the new American Dream. Living small has allowed them to create a low-stress life, without giving up the traditional comforts and style that most people think of when they dream of “home.”
This tiny house in a peaceful setting has allowed owner Tammy Strobel to create a simpler, happier life.
Tammy and her husband commissioned Portland Alternative Dwellings to design and build their tiny home in 2010, and were living in it full time by 2011.
As you can see from her photos, the home is bright and airy, and seems far more spacious than you would expect in a tiny house. The cozy, lofted bedroom has ample natural light while the main first-floor living space combines comfort and functionality.
This cozy loft in a tiny home has a skylight to let in natural light and makes the space feel larger.
During the winter of 2014, Tammy and her husband had decided to winter in town in a rented cottage. Winters in cold climates can be difficult in tiny houses, something that anyone thinking about living in one full time should consider.
Another challenge may be zoning restrictions based on where you live.
Tammy has moved her tiny home many times, but she said it’s a challenge as each location brings new and often different rules about where she can and can’t park her tiny house on wheels.
Although living in their tiny house full time hasn’t been without challenges, it has allowed them to spend more time with family, and make decisions based on what is best for their family, not what is best for their checking accounts.
Built on a trailer, this tiny house can be moved from location to location, providing its owners with more freedom and at a fraction of the cost of a traditional home.
Their tiny home has given them the ability to make moves around the country that would have otherwise been impossible, and the experience has freed them from debt and led them to a happier lifestyle.
In April of 2015 they left their rented cottage and moved back into their tiny house full time,
I’m glad we moved into Yreka for the winter because the change was good for us at the time. However, being back in the tiny house feels good. We love our neighbors, the scenery, and the quiet. I’m grateful to be back home.
Photos courtesy of Tammy Strobel at RowdyKittens
