“Community is a sign that love is possible in a materialistic world
where people so often either ignore or fight each other. It is a sign
that we don't need a lot of money to be happy--in fact, the opposite.”
―
Jean Vanier
Recently, I moved from Denver. There, I lived in a few different places. At some point, occupied a small 3rd story apartment across the street from the Capitol Building. I had a wonderful view of the city and mountain peaks in the distance. A balcony extended from historic French doors. My other long term dwelling place was a Brownstone style 'condo' near City Park. In both places I paid 650 in rent a month, plus utilities. I lived the city life, so to speak. It was a change of pace for my mostly rural existence in life. Although it was somewhat exciting, I would often become homesick over the less populated places I have had the pleasure of occupying.
Hawaii is always heavy on my mind. The people and culture of the islands are rich with the pulp of community, unity. There, I feel embraced by the land and citizens. I feel ignited by the sounds and smells. Here, you can trade your papayas for avocados. You can share your lemons for some limes. Here, you will not go hungry. If you are willing to share when you have extra, you will always have what you need when you have not. The island taught me much about how life should be. I give thanks everyday for my experience and time there. It continues to guide and reinforce my current direction as a woman and a mother.
Another place I embrace is Yellow Springs, Ohio. This tiny village has influenced and nurtured my artistic endeavors from the age of 15. It's here that I first gained my identity and power as an artist and creator. Here, I was uplifted by the support of elders and fellow artists, made aware of my voice. This place demonstrated to me that there is value in artistic expression, that I had value. This village taught me the power of independent thinking, visualization, expression. I go here to reconnect and reaffirm during transitional periods of my life.
I am the mother of two daughters, ages 9 and 12. I balance working for myself as a painter/artist and mothering. My days are spent planning, researching, designing, painting, cooking, soothing, fire making, photographing, storytelling, grant writing, laughing, networking, finger-crossing, loving and praying. I earn a modest living, yet I get to spend much time with my family and friends. Making this room for community in my life is worth more than the money I could be earning by structuring my life around a 'regular job'. I don't want to sacrifice my happiness and time with my family for more money. I want to live well on the money I already make. Furthermore, for me, working for ones self is more challenging and satisfying than any other work.
One downside of this lifestyle choice is that by not buying into the '9-5' lifestyle one is to be ostracized by the majority, possibly labeled as lazy or jobless. There is a stigma attached to working for one's self in this America. Although most people who choose to work independently are highly intelligent, tenacious, driven, dedicated individuals with a knowledge of self to understand what will and won't work for them in life. This isn't to say that the structure of a 9-5 isn't well suited to some and that those individuals aren't just as driven and intelligent.
Through the places I have traveled and my experiences in each, I have had the great fortune of comprehending what kind of life I wish to live. Throughout the past few years I have been overwhelmed by the cost of living. Most of my income has been given to rent. I take on the occasional 'regular job' and still struggle financially. While paying someones mortgage, I have very little left to share with my family. I also have little creative control over my living space. A freedom to alter your surroundings as your creative expression dictates is important to me.
I decided what would work best for us is to live within our financial means, have the creative freedom we need (and mobility), and live closer to nature. Thus, our 26 ft Shasta Camper Trailer!
With much, much less rent to pay (basically just utilities and occasional repair, maintenance) we greet financial liberation. For us, this means extra curricular activities for the girls such as music and theater. More financial flexibility for emergencies. The ability to start a substantial savings for travel and enjoyment/enrichment in life. Yes, our space will be smaller than any apartment we have lived in thus far. However, we will be able to afford the types of finishes and amenities of a luxury condo. Our aim is to utilize all sustainable solutions available to us so that we can be as independent as possible from any unneeded financial burden.
Granted, the Shasta is a little rough around the edges. It will take time and patience, and a small budget to get her feeling like a real home. Thankfully, I have chosen Yellow Springs as a foundation for this transformation. Here, my vision has been embraced and encouraged. Each day, I am proud to be a part of this artistic, liberal community. I am able to trade my skills for some of the work I need done on our new home. A dear friend of mine found us a place to park for a while as we make needed renovations. Others have loaned and donated hoses, extension chords, dishes, heaters, paint, and other supplies. We are still staying at a friends home while the camper is being worked on. We are very much looking forward to settling in and placing the marks of home upon it. It is with love and community that this type of lifestyle is possible. I would like to encourage other families in my position to live in a similar way. For us, it is most rewarding! Here's to the simplicity and boldness of life in a caravan!
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| The floorplan |
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| Our special measuring cups! |
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| Special Dog |
