It feels like we moved from this:

(photo: not by me)

To this:

(photo: also, not by me)

Granted, we have indoor plumbing and a few other modern conveniences that the model above doesn’t – all of which we certainly pay for.  There are some similarities, though…our walls are both made of cardboard (mine just have wallpaper on them), they aren’t exactly “stable” in inclement weather, and…oh, the space issue.

Yesterday, I was thoroughly embarrassed when our neighbor wanted to come in and see my book collection (which included titles that were of interest to her).  Although we’ve been “moved in” for months now, many of the rooms look like a loaded closet just threw up in them.  And, unfortunately, if you weren’t here several months ago, you wouldn’t understand the improvement.

I’ve set up bookcases galore (we can’t hang heavy things, so hanging wall storage isn’t an option here), but despite that, there’s just not enough PLACES for things!  In the living room, we’ve maximized space and literally have no more wall space to add anything unless it was a pair of shoes…or, unless we didn’t want to open the front door.  At all.

I’m aware that there are some great “creative” storage pieces…like pontoon boat style seating (where the seat raises up for storage) and all of that neat stuff.  But, generally a cheap budget won’t really coincide with those things…unless it’s duct taping things under your couches.  (Hmm…the landlord did say no big nails, but he didn’t say anything about duct tape…)

So, I’m feeling discouraged.  After being in my neighbor’s home (who homeschools, has a business, and manages to keep a very tidy home), I’m feeling less than adequate.

My home almost looks like a small tribe of compulsive hoarders live here, but I promise that’s not the case.  We just moved from a bigger home with LOTS of room to a much smaller home that lacks a yard.  I’ve worked through my things and really only have 3 garbage bags worth of things to give away (small bags), and after that?  I use everything else pretty often.

(Shh…did you hear that?  The toddler wants me to come look at something.  Nevermind.  It was a booger.)

Welcome back!