Life in Harmony: Describing the Vibrant and Sustainable Environment of My Household
A Sustainable Home Environment
When I set out to buy a home, my top three requirements are simple: it must be clean, safe, and cozy. These principles guide the environment within my household, fostering a space that is not just a sanctuary but also a hub for sustainable living. My latest home is a testament to these ideals, with an open invitation displayed in the front window: COME IN PEACE OR NOT AT ALL. This unique sign symbolizes my commitment to creating a welcoming, albeit whimsical, space for visitors.
While the fa?ade of my front lot may be a bit rough around the edges—particularly with a touch of wildness added in the form of unruly weeds—I leave it to boast of a more captivating reveal. When guests step through the gate, they are greeted with a living canvas that reflects the essence of my creativity and personality. Not surprisingly, some find it baffling that my house is so clean, especially considering my enormous dogs. I derive a certain joy from transforming spaces with playfulness and imagination, from lighting up the area both inside and out with solar lights and color-changing bulbs, to the cozy ambiance created by my wood stove all winter.
My home is a place of nourishment and quality. The emphasis here is on home-cooked meals using locally sourced and preserved ingredients. My shelves of canned goods often catch the attention of visitors, as they reflect a commitment to wholesome, nutritious meals. In fact, some have even joked that they would eat anything that came out of my kitchen. For me, quality items are more important than quantity, and this is why most of my belongings are vintage, passed down from gifts, and imbued with a sense of history.
My kitchen isn't just about cooking; it's an extension of my commitment to sustainability. I not only cook but also grow a variety of berries, fruits, nuts, herbs, and medicinal plants. Roses, for instance, are a personal favorite and a medicinal powerhouse, helping to alleviate various ailments. With this as my guiding philosophy, I've managed to save thousands in medical bills for both people and pets, and my annual gardens continue to thrive. Even my garden serves as a resource for friends with less handiness when it comes to gardening.
Adapting to the Desert Climate
But my home is not just a testament to my commitment to a clean and comfortable living environment. It's also a reflection of my journey into a more sustainable lifestyle. My space under the six wheels—my camper—is a remarkable feat, blending the comforts of a traditional home with the unique challenges of desert living. It measures 29 feet long and around 8 feet wide, offering a cozy retreat but occasionally feeling a bit cramped. However, the compactness contributes to a more efficient use of resources and a closer connection with nature.
Living in the desert has its unique set of challenges, especially when it comes to the climate. The hot and dry conditions are tempered by an occasional monsoon season, which brings devastating floods and heavy rains. Just a week ago, I experienced some serious flooding, but my permaculture landscaping efforts have slowly been making a difference. My soil improvement efforts are part of a broader goal to establish an edible landscape, filled with plants that are both delicious and medicinal. Many of these plants are native to the desert and grow wild on my acreage, contributing significantly to my survival and comfort.
The climate is particularly hospitable for both myself and my dog, who suffer from arthritis. While the rain and humidity exacerbate their condition, these conditions are fleeting, lasting only for a couple of months each year. A herd of horses across the street is a charming sight, and over time, I've won their trust, earning their companionship during morning sunbaths on the old picnic table.
My journey from a traditional home to a desert camping life filled with horses and horses' companionship is one of adaptability and joy. Life, as they say, is as interesting as you let it become. And in this vibrant and sustainable environment, I find an endless source of creativity, satisfaction, and contentment.