abby « Robin Writes

Okay, we’re not exactly lining up ducks, but we DID outline the new house: in our current back yard, just because we can.

It’s 24 by 32 feet, which comes to 768 square feet, which is the smallest house we’ve ever lived in. One house in Texas came close, 900, including the garage, but that was two adults, three kids, and a large dog. This one will be two adults, a small dog—and possibly a medium-sized one, along with a cat. And the cat will be thrilled, since he’ll be able to go outside! Finally!

So, bedroom, office, bathroom, kitchen, and living room. Oh, and the gun cabinet . . .

We’re cracking ourselves up here, going “through the walls” instead of doors—we haven’t marked all those. The main purpose here is to see the size, especially room size, in case we need to make adjustments.

I won’t lie, it’s pretty exciting. But the neighbors are probably wondering . . .

We’ve narrowed down our search for land to 9 Missouri counties—17 properties. Of course, we aren’t quite ready to buy, and these could certainly change, but in just a couple months we’ll start driving around and checking things out.

We’re going to plan on 35 acres; this seems to meet our budget and we really have to stop saying, “Or whatever size we end up with.” Mostly wooded is the main criteria, some open/pasture is fine, and of course, a flat section for building. Live water is preferred, but probably not on a major waterway—tubing is popular in the areas we’re looking at, but that means people . . .

I printed off some graph paper and drew a rough sketch of the compound:

24’ X 30’ cabin with a driveway/parking area leading to the side

4 8’ X 8’ outbuildings: pump house, supplies, general storage, and fuel

12’ X 12’ platform for tent

Outhouse/outdoor shower

16’ X 24’ garden

There is also room for fruit trees/vines, and a small stall/stable/enclosure for a cow. No chickens! I’m still terrified of them—but we’ll have a hive as well. We can trade for eggs. And bacon. J

Now, in case you’re wondering about the tent and outhouse, the plan is to move out there WHILE we’re building the house. And, of course, we need something to live in, and somewhere to um, go, so there’s that. And, later, our friends can come out and camp—instant campground!

Of course, that’s if you know the location and the secret password . . .