Tiny houses have become all the rage. They are clever in that they make maximum use out of minimum space. They can be moved on wheels to most any location. They are cute and even inviting; but they are not for everybody. Seniors, and some younger people, have taken to living in motorhomes and travelling to any place where they can find work. This makes a lot of sense, given the overcrowding in our world; but I prefer to remain stationary. My houseplants alone are too large for a tiny house. Unless I could situate my garden on the roof, a tiny house would be of little use to me. I would also have the problem of where to store my gardening tools and numerous plant pots; so I would need to add a storage shed on one side, and a greenhouse for starting seeds on the other. Growing plants from seed requires space and light. It seems to me that living in a tiny house is only slightly better than camping, which is something I have never cared for.
The second huge problem with a tiny house is that cooking in them would be way too challenging. For someone who does not mind eating soup from a can, or warming pre-packaged dinners in a microwave, this kind of life would be acceptable; but for someone, like me, who makes every meal almost entirely from scratch, it simply would not do. A real cook comes with a boatload of necessary measuring implements and mixing bowls and pans for sautéing, simmering, frying, baking, and broiling. Dishes and numerous eating utensils are required for the serving of home cooked meals. And, don’t forget the pantry, which must also be well stocked. Finally, a kitchen must have ample counter space in order to create fabulous meals.
Another major problem with a tiny house, is that people who are claustrophobic do not tolerate small spaces well. Being confined in any way, causes me great anxiety. For example, my shoes must be large enough that I can wiggle my toes. Nightgowns, which tend to twist around my body while I am sleeping, are not a part of my wardrobe. Just like a cat, I need to know where my exits are and where I can most easily escape through them, should the need arise.
I am happy that tiny houses are appealing to some people. They provide an option for those facing homelessness. While I, myself, require only a modest, simple home, I recognize my need for ample space. I can write from anywhere; but I am more than just a writer. I am a gardener and a homemaker, which requires all that I have mentioned above, as well as a bathtub, which I could not live without. Beyond all of our personal preferences; however, we must realize that Earth is home to all of us and wherever we live and whatever style of house we choose, it is our responsibility to care for it.
