Hey! We hope you enjoyed this week's video! We're wondering, after watching this, could you be a tiny home dweller? Or do you love the space to spread out? Let us know! Until next time, Jack & Gabby xxx
I love boats. But I would not raise my kid in it. Bad sleep effects child's brain development. After this point, I would not even consider any other pros or cons. Narrowboats are great for a season.
@@thistinylife I love watching your boat life guys having baby joe and now he will be on the move it will be hard living in a small space . You are both doing a fab job stay cosy and warm it’s freezing here in Edinburgh today ❤️
@@thistinylife I downsized from a huge country house, after my husband died, 25 years ago, to a small basement flat, which has become my nest. Over the years, grown up children have stayed and the baby grandchildren. It’s amazing how many people you can put up on coat hangers. I do sympathise with your predicament, though. Good luck.
@@thistinylife When our kids got married we decided the house was to big,we now live in a 1 bed Cottage surrounded by woodlands . I love small because I don't see the point in heating rooms that are not being used,also there isn't much to clean in our tiny home which is a win win for us 😂. The garden is big enough to grow our vegetables and keep happy chickens. 😃
@lorraineowen7978 this sounds like such a beautiful life! Totally agree with the benefits of tiny living... We often see massive homes and wonder how on earth people keep on top of them! Do your chickens have names? X
I and my partner have lived aboard a 40 foot sailing boat for over 25 years. I don't feel that any of your challenges are insurmountable. Noise-try playing white noise to Jo in his sleeping area ,but, ultimately he will get used to the sounds around him, it's a stage. One that will pass. There is a reason for the saying 'shipshape and Bristol fashion'. You need a place for everything and everything in its place. Discipline is paramount. Use it then PUT IT AWAY. Immediately. Think ahead always-if you are going to need to wash up boil the water in advance. Fill the kettle and some pans before jo goes down to sleep. It's really not hard just takes planning. Procrastination is the thief of time. Concentrate on finishing the project you have started. If you open too many fronts at once you will get discouraged and overwhelmed. You can put money in the bank and it'll probably be there tomorrow but when the light goes down on the day it's over-never to be lived again. IMHO that's priceless. But having said all that this life may not be for you, a compromise too far. That's ok too.
Have been watching you guys forever and love your vlogs. We sold our house and moved onto a 72 ft 1908 motorised converted butty with a 3 year old. With the dream of being self-sufficient, and less materialistic. Its an amazing way to live. We went on and had another child, so 2 children onboard. (1 at school, 1 at home in the day)It's definitely challenging but rewarding. We were lucky that our 72ft had a family living onboard before, so 3 bedrooms and a huge living space. The outdoor space is as important as indoors. We found land, have chickens, and grow veg. We love it. I'm sure you'll work it out. Maybe a big dutch barge is the next boat... Our 2 are now 26 and 21yrs old. We have all the 72ft space back, and it seems luxurious the space😂Keep up the great vlogs.
Survive the first 2 years of your kiddos life, and things very gradually get easier. This is particularly true if you don't have a good sleeper. The key is to be kind to each other. You're both exhausted. You're both at your wits end. There is no spare capacity/energy. This will be the case regardless of where you live. There's no greener pastures. Absolutely impossible to survive it if nit picking and blame gaming takes hold. Love, respect, trust and kindness is what gets you through.
Hi guys if you put some water in a kettle b4 jo goes to sleep then you can use it to wash up when he sleeps and you won't have to put tje water on 😊 xx hope it helps xx
A thought provoking episode. My principal advice is never let this channel become an obligation that compels you to maintain a lifestyle. You have rewarded your viewers with an insight into your fascinating way of life but feel free to move on if the situation necessitates, I would miss viewing your life afloat but would understand and respect any big decision you make. A few domestic tweaks would make life much simpler, just imagine life with a gas hob in the galley powered by an LPG gas bottle or an extra 6ft of boat length or dropping off washing at a commercial laundry or even, even ( I dare not say it) 4 winter months ongrid in a marina… I know these would be compromises. The underlying problem I have sensed over the past 6 months is that you are living in a travel machine but your daily eco interests have sown ties ashore such as the allotment and the bee hive. My grandfatherly advise would be tough it out until March, then as the weather improves I hope you will rediscover your love of life on the towpath. I suggest reorientating your lives to your strengths. You are lifestyle explorers and you excel at documenting that journey. Your video production standards are exquisite, so it would be a shame if a large pile of laundry or bowl of unwashed crockery derailed the present journey. I wonder if you should drop the allotment and sell the beehive, then navigate the waterways next summer plotting a course that videos others doing low-carbon cultivation ashore plus some alternative family lifestyle festivals. There is a small issue of an extra 1000 amp hours of lithium battery to spin that propeller, where is that magic money tree when you need it?
You guys are doing amazing. Please remember little Joe knows no different, he has never had another experience of life. Every parent in whatever sized home/boat/tent etc goes through these concerns. Little Joe is changing and so are you. Maybe try exposing Joe to noises gradually whilst he sleeps, so the other noises dont over ride. Winter always seems hardest, for every generation, soon itll be Spring and the outdoors will be part of our lives again. Our Minds do tend to over think things, but life can be so simple. Much love xx
As a dad of two I recognise a lot of this. Ours are now 12 and 11. And looking back we now talk a lot about ‘seasons’. And right now you’re in one. And before you know it you will be in another one. Just adjust and give yourselves permission to change. It will be good!
Great to hear you being so open and honest. This will be the worst Winter for you. Probably should invest in an all terrain type buggy. I Found ours invaluable. Long walks in Winter. A really cosy weather proof sleeping bag and folds up very compact. Much better for getting Joe off to sleep now he is bigger. Walk Tilly at the same time. You can lift it onto the front of the boat to leave him to sleep when you get back.
Living in small spaces be it on land or water requires discipline and organization and simplicity - less is more and as my grandfather always taught clean up at the end of each day and start the morning fresh and new - clean as you go - talk less and do more - have a place for everything and everything in its place - those of us who grew up in large families with small spaces (5 children in a tiny 2 bedroom house) survived and thrived - if you want this lifestyle then focus on doing it and if it’s time for a change then work towards that with a well written plan -
our 2300 sq ft farmhouse burned in 2022. Long story short,we rebuilt an 800 sq ft cottage. doing the math tells us we had to get rid of 2/3 of our possessions. Hard. But we are in a season (kids just left the nest) where it has worked wonderfully for us. A smaller space has freed up so much time to pursue our interests not maintenance. You are in a different season. My advice (for what its worth) is to be very clear what your priorities are-really dig deep so you have less of those "I didn't think about this" moments. A larger space likely means less family time as someone/someones is working to afford a larger (yet still small space) but less day to day frustration. In the end, its all a balance and most everyones balance is different. Last bit of advice: think outside the box- I think you do that already, but what options could be possible for this season (which will change faster than you think)......Good Luck!
A rechargeable white Noise machine might help smooth out the nap time needs. You have a lovely family and your dreams of living off grid are exciting and interesting. I don’t have any advice for the laundry. Our boat looks exactly the same when it’s laundry time.
Through CruisingTheCut many years ago,I started watching narrowboat channels. Many have come and gone, others have downsized their UA-cam precense. The amount of effort you put into sharing a story, filming, editing is amazing. You almost hit the 20K subscribers target, though I expected this channel to grow big time like David´s channel. I haven´t watched this video yet, though I can imagine that having a todler besides the limited for 2 - space, is a huge challenge. Watching from Mexico, living just in the jungle, having much outdoor space, I can´t imagine living on a narrowboat anymore. In my early 20´s I wanted to do exactly that, though never did. I will watch the video and wish you the very best of luck wit whatever desicion you make. A Dutch barn was already recommended, a wider boat that may meet the changed needs.
Babies are lovely, but tend to be quite stressful wherever you live! Chances are you would be facing the same or similar set of stressors anywhere else, unless you wanted to employ nannies, lol. And even those come with problems. But the good thing is the issues are temporary - for example Joe will probably get used to the noises, or will be out of nappies sooner than you think. It really does get easier, and most new parents get extremely tired at some point - at least with an off grid-lifestyle you have loads of time and most of all, freedom, which others don't have.
That lovely little place you showed us earlier with the beautiful views, a place to grow your veggies...Was this a natural place to move on to? The cooking you love, and the need of space...Love to follow you in the choices you make. The followers will come with you🥰
Very thought provoking and knowing how much you enjoy the life on the waterways have you considered upgrading to a wider beamed barge and maybe a little longer so you have that bit more space. Whatever you do I know you'll do what's right for you all
When I was young, I raised my babies in the kitchen (the noisiest room) so they would get used to noise. What was especially nice was that when we got to visit friends, the kids would fall asleep anywhere in any position. It never bothered them. I think that children raised in silence have more nightmares. They grow into adults that have trouble sleeping unless it's silent, which means they can't travel. My friend's son can't even sleep if there's a clock in the house 😢. 🤷🏼♀️ You've got to make it easier on you. ❤
Dear Jack and Gabby I have had the pleasure of watching your channel since day one. The two of you have handled life so well while over coming your many difficulties. Now you are approaching another door which is beginning to open. Remember that you have choices. You guys will once again figure it out. Mark Alberta, Canada
I have always wondered how you would fare when baby became a walker/ explorer/ jr. scientist/ tiny disaster locus. Boys need space to jump and climb and run. How will you manage? Looking forward to next episode.
Have you considered living in a marina….. with washing facilities, somewhere you can have a secure shed for dry wood storage etc? Or adding an insulated summer house to the allotment?
Hi guys I hope you’re well. I think you’ve done amazingly so far and have experienced an amazing chapter in your lives on the boat which you will cherish forever. I think having watched your channel from day 1 you may be at that point where it’s time for the next chapter. I really see you guys buying a small patch of agricultural land and building a tiny home on it. More space then you have now or at least more useable, space for Joe and Tilly to run, explore be free. And where you can grow your own veg etc and be as self sustainable as possible. It will still be “this tiny life” and your loyal followers will still tune in to support you. Good luck x ps .. for anyone not understanding your struggles they have not lived in your shoes. So do what works for you and makes your lives happier
I can only imagine life on the canal with a young baby could have its challenges during winter months ,not to mention living off-grid. Whatever you decide for your future plans will be the right choice for you all. ❤️😊
Reading through some of the comments, the advice is generally very good. As the sailing boat person said, you need discipline and forward planning - keep things 'ship-shape'! Also, play soothing music near Joe's cot so that it overrides other noises; children are resilient! They adapt.
Solution to your washing up issues...fill water up prior to baby going to bed and boil it to do washing up before going to bed ...sounds simple to me...I live in a small van most of the summer so literally 30 times smaller than your boat, wash sitting down, cook sitting down, etc etc...its all doable.
You guys like the slow relaxing organic lifestyle ! Boat life is very hard work.& that means planing everyday. Why not wash up and tidy around before joe goes down. You can both help while keeping an eye on joe in his little box as it is right next to to the sink area .. Joe doesn’t need holding 24/7 . And I lived in 1 room for 5 years with my son .. i kept things organised and I never tip toed around him, I had my tv or radio on, So he would sleep through anything lol. Maybe time to move to land maybe ?! Good luck either way .
As a mum who has raised 4 children I understand the demands a tiny person can bring. For little people they definitely have an incredible amount of stuff. Also the toddler stage is difficult wherever you live as they are into everything. While living in a house is convenient that comes these days with an increasing cost. Also they are only little for a short amount of time. I would suggest perhaps like Joe and Vick rent a house for a time before parting ways with your boat. It does get easier as they get older. As for noise with my youngest I didn’t tip toe around and with three older siblings noise was inevitable and he learned to sleep through anything and still does including his alarm.
I watch people in my street, converting their lofts, buying their electric cars etc etc., and they cart their kids of to nursery, enjoy your off grid life, just keep minimalist.
As someone who had 4 children all one after the other I definitely know the overwhelming feelings - you feel you can't do more than you already do, but the answer to that is you have to concentrate on the priorities & agree with yourself that other things can wait. Those dishes in the morning are a big irritation, but that's just life - you hate them, but after a few minutes of cleanup they are done ! Maybe award yourselves some paper plates & concentrating on one-pan meals might relieve the dishes issue - and did you realize a fabulous sandwich can be just as nutritious as that 3 pans fancy recipe ? A lot of what we put ourselves thru is because of our own preconceived ideas of what 'normal' should be ! We are all trying to get things 'right' & that is a daily battle for everybody - chin up - you are doing a lovely job. I hope you make the right decisions for your life - if your need to become landlubbers now while you have a family, that's 'ok' - everybody understands why ! Thank you for sharing your life battles with us - wishing you the very best !
While this may not help your situation Gabby I want to also say that you are a lucky woman - you have a husband who actually helps - in the 'old' days men rarely took much notice of what their wives or mothers were going thru - it was all "women's work" and they simply ignored them - my husband was only half-way to modernity so I was often just stuck with it all myself, so please appreciate your husband - it could be so much worse & Jack - hang in there - this is all merely one phase of life, and thank you from an old bird for being one of the good guys !!!
My plan is to move out of my 1 bedroom flat into a tiny home on wheels at some point. I would like to achieve that next year, but we will see. There's a lot of steps involved in getting to that point. I am at a different life point to you, I am almost 50 and relish the thought of downsizing and changing my pace of life to be more intentional. You've gotta do what works for you and your little family. And life always changes. Embrace the change if that's what you need to do x
Yes definitely so much easier with just the two of you... And always harder through the winter when you're stuck inside more and space seems crowded. Stay strong guys, I know you'll make the right decision. Xx
aww, I would love to be off grid and have the freedom of a continual cruiser, however I love my 'stuff' . I love to cook, to grow my own, to preserve the gluts, my lovely huge fridge freezer, my washing machine, and other home comforts, and to keep my bees, so its bricks for me. Wherever your life takes you, I hope you don't mind us peeking in every so often, like friends do, because that is how I think of you.
You are the first person who has said how I feel. I would love boat life but I too actually love my stuff. We are made to feel ashamed of that in this world of minimalism and decluttering, I am grateful for space 😊 .
This is such a lovely comment Erica! We sound similar to you so balance between both worlds with the boat and allotment etc. I think a lot of people who choose to live off grid love the ability of being more self sufficient 🙂 one day we aim to have a small holding, but for now he boat gives us the best of both without owing lots of money to a bank. Thank you for watching, we love reading the comments here and really take it as a massive compliment that you see us as friends. It's such a lovely thing to say xxx
As in previous comments, i agee try to get through this winter. Children adapt to their surroundings, they know no difference.The boiling of the water previous to Joe going to bed is a good one, especially to clean the washing up before going to bed thus feeling better in the morning. These are all you decisions of course. If choosing to move into a brick built home the expenses will rocket puting pressure in your lives and children pick up on feelings. You're free at present toa certain repect. Good luck in whatever your life choses are. Take care stay warm🤗
One of the worse things you can do with a baby is give him quite, bustle around he will get used to it. However i would make sure i had a guard on that stove.
Great video Guy's glad you are all feeling better. Life is to short you are Young, enjoy yourselfWhy you can time goes so quickly.😊 you will have some Beautiful times on the canal and Wonderful memories to look back on. Keep safe and warm 🙏
I really enjoyed the video. I Love how honest you both about liveing on a narrowboat. And saying about the up and down. The way you live is lovely and i am sure you will both work it out. Have a lovely week all four of you. 🧑🎄☃️🎄
Maybe when you tire of towpath life you would prefer a smallholding with a patch of land and you could have chickens, sell some of your produce as well as your honey and a book of recipes of the food you make….Just a thought? We have a 50 ft narrowboat but are not liveaboards. We love to spend a few days at a time on board but I’m happy to get back to our house inbetween. Hey there is another outlet, you could air B and B your narrowboat to visitors?
One day this will be the grand plan! We're quite debt opposed however and don't like the idea of having a giant mortgage hanging over our head. This life gives freedom which we appreciate greatly 🙂 thanks for watching! Xxx
Er... why are you not filling up the kettle and a saucepan before little one's bedtime, then heat them on the hob so you can wash up without using the tap?
time to move back to land maybe? Lots of people live on the canals with children but maybe that's not for you? You have been fortunate to have this time all together for the past year. How about the barn and land you viewed? Could you convert the barn? Just a thought.
Grand to see you all be interesting to see what you decide to do can see the problems up to you what you decide to do blessings to you all love from your oldies 🤗🤗🤗🤗🤗
I love your channel, and how you have gone about things. perhaps the next step is to ask other parents how have children on their boats and how they cope. Could they give you the help you need and maybe a different way of doing things. Holly the coffee boat? They have a two year old I think and also Chugabug, they have two older children. Give them a buz and see if you can get some help from someone in the same situation. Luv n hugs to you all xxx
Nice to see you all, missed you. very interesting video although i absolutely love your lifestyle i have to say as Jo as got older i have been wondering how it would pan out, thinking ahead when hes a toddler and how much they climb and get about i think my fears come from years ago cruising down a river and my dog fell in the water and i didn't know he had for quite some time .i won't go into all the details but you can imagine he nearly lost his life but didn't thank God. then another time on a narrowboat going into the lock the reverse gear linkage went and we crashed into it boiling pan of spuds went flying over someone's arm. I will stop there i am sorry i do tend to overthink things and have always been a worrier. I love you videos and I am sure what ever decision you make will be the right one sending love to you all xx
You wanted to buy that tiny farm a few episodes back. Why don't you sell the boat, buy the/a farm, and buy a tiny house or bus to live on the farm itself... That way no going back and forth to the boat all the time, you would have out buildings/sheds to stretch out a bit, and could still live off grid and much more self sufficiently.
This is a lovely idea - a smallholding is the dream for so many of us - but farmland in the UK is eye wateringly expensive. The UK has a population of about 68 million but a landmass approximately the size of Wyoming or Oregon to give you an idea of how limited land is here.
My philosophy on raising a baby is to try to make them bomb proof, meaning quite accustom to noise. Play the radio while they sleep. Don’t try to keep things quiet. When they are tired they will sleep. When I was a child I had a friend with 7 brothers and sisters. I remember the baby sleeping in the living room. The mother said he was bomb proof because of the constant noise in the house. You might consider building a shutter door over the end of the counter where the bottles are stored. It mght become necessary soon when the baby begins to crawl and grab.
I love tiny living but I can imagine with a baby as well it's a struggle, especially with all the laundry! We are only two people and can never seem to get on top of it. I can see why you love narrowboat life with all the simple joys. Sounds like it's a hard balance between what's practical and what you love about the lifestyle
They're such lovely stoves... As we said though, we try to avoid burning coal. We do in small amounts but are looking to find more environmentally friendly alternatives like compressed logs. We'll see 🙂
Hi guys, this year I moved from a 3 bedroom house into a 26' caravan on my own property. It's the closest I could get to a 'tiny house on wheels' and I am loving it. For a few months our cat & long-haired Weimarana are also living with me. The cat doesn't take up much space, however, living in a confined space with the family dog is akin to living with a Shetland Pony, I imagine 😅
I admire you - I could never be a tiny house dweller! And I especially couldn’t live in one that was designed for two adults working from home and then had to be converted to accommodate a third shipmate! But I do think that there are a few things that could make your life easier. One of them is relocating your water pump to the kitchen, or adding a second one in the kitchen and relocating the current one to your bedroom. The second thing is a white noise machine. We have a 10.5yr age gap between my step child and my eldest, so we used a white noise machine from birth with both of our kids are our house was rarely quiet at nap/bed time. However I can also see you guys moving to a plot and renovating an old cottage/farmhouse so you have the space to live your dreams. There are a few channels I watch with people doing that, from Ireland and Scotland to Portugal and France. So that might be a good medium term idea to get you settled before school becomes an issue!
I’m now having a tiny house built,really excited ❤ but I only have 2 small dogs,I can imagine the struggle for space with a baby having had my own,u 2 r amazing and u make it look easy,but I can imagine ur daily struggle with gorgeous little Joe 💙💙
I ALWAYS tell people go by your instincts. Yesteryears are gone. The future brought into your personal world defiantly out weights the want. Find that happy medium. Off grib cottage in a small rural countryside. Defiantly wonderful for how you live now but becoming rooted. Gone with the flow changed didn't it now? Good luck in decision making❤
It’s so easy to slip into a “precious attitude “ towards our babies. In real life there will always be noise and light. Tiptoeing round babies or and putting them in a totally blacked out room for sleep is making a rod for one’s back. All that goes out the window when staying family and friends, or they come to visit you. It becomes tedious for everyone. And the baby or child doesn’t learn to be adaptable or how to cope when things aren’t quite perfect.
I understand what you’re saying, we ( couple and a teenager) live in a tiny house for 3 years now (tiny as in 17m2) , and even if we love our life and being outside all the time, the need for space (for cooking, reading or anything else on your own) is really overwhelming…
Hi 👋🏽 you could boil a kettle before baby goes sleep to wash up or fill a flask 👍🏽 If babies fall asleep to noise then they usually sleep through it. Being quiet while they sleep isn’t always possible as you’re finding out bless you. Wishing you well 😊
Could you use a small white noise machine for his naps? It wouldn't completely drown out the other noises of the boat, but maybe it would help him grow accustomed to sleeping through the day-to-day sounds of boat life.
Life is full of hard decisions and, like it or not, the seasons of our lives sometimes creep up on us and demand to be acknowledged. Good luck with your decisions and it isn't easy when you have to consider children and their needs.
I'm pretty sure that if you were to get a bigger boat with better facilities ie more working space in the kitchen may be two bedrooms looking forward, moving the water pump maybe an option , I know you probably want to be gas free but I think if you want to stay on the boat which I think you should, then this may be a small compromise to preserve your cherished way of life. I understand that money is an issue but you may be able to swap your boat for an ex hire one that has 2 bedrooms.that way you will have the best of both worlds . I honestly think with a few tweaks you can make a safer environment for the baby long term / good luck with it . I would def try to stay on the cut but a more family friendly boat.
You might be surprised at how much babies sleep through noises they get used to. Try carrying on as normal and see what happens. It might work out OK....it might not too mind, lol. I'll miss you guys if you give it up! But, a small holding would be interesting to follow too? Just saying lol
Consider a widebeam. I worry about the stove when Joe starts walking! What happened with the small holding you looked at? Any chance of putting a dwelling on the land?
I know you heavily invested in the new boat and made it electric; but do you think a wide beam could make the difference? Finances allowing, of course. Perhaps with more convenience in regard to appliances? Or would a wide beam negate the navigation of the network for you? You seem very settled on your Oxfordshire mooring. Tom
I think with a little one, it would be too much of a challenge for me. Not with a newborn, but once they start to move around, crawling, walking,that would be very difficult.However, I think I would prefer it over full-time van life with kids though. That one I couldn’t do, unless it was a converted school bus, or other larger vehicle. Personally, I still dream of having a small piece of land with a tiny house on it. We currently live in what’s considered a smaller house in the US (just over 1400 square ft), with a large patio and decent back yard, but I would love to go smaller. Yep, being able to spend that whole first year together is amazing, and that would make up for most of the inconveniences, for me🥰
Ah man we discovered through generations of family advice tiptoeing around a sleeping child was not a good idea. They get used to the noises in a surprisingly short time. Give it a try, ultimately it will be a win for all of you. Merry Christmas and a happy new year guys.
How about considering something like an Airbnb for a week out of every four, or possibly for each weekend to give you the convenience of washing machine etc without the worry of electricity usage. Great idea in comments to fill the kettle, fill pans for cooking veg etc & for washing up prior to Jo's sleep time. I think you'd hate living amongst other people in a permanent conventional home. I would love a tiny home but I have a big Welshman for a husband!
Thinking ahead & finding solutions isn't that difficult, apart from the space which can't change. Good luck as you navigate this phase - and when Joe becomes mobile 😮😅
I love your life for you but I couldn’t do it I had 3 children all very into everything sports etc the stuff that goes with it …..it’s ok when you’re young I suppose but now in my 60s I like my home comforts plus we’re not in good health and having a house with a stairlift and converted bathroom is a must xx
Lived in 18 wheelers, one roomed cabins (10 yrs) & an RV. But I was alone for most of that. Wife and I are retired, no kids. So I think we'd be ok. But add a child, we'd be swamped.
Why do you assume that everything besides living on a narrowboat is - and I quote - "conventional living"? My husband and I have raised a child off-grid in quite extreme circumstances on the African continent. She's an adult now, ready to go to university to study medicine. We've all survived. Raising children is a challenge, no matter where you live. It doesn't matter if you live off-grid on land or on water. The chores will always be there. So the question is: do you want to switch to the grid again? Because this is not just a matter of how much space you have. A big space is often synonym for more work. Organisation and discipline are key to living a sustainable, off-grid life-style. Of course, there are moment where you think 'wouldn' 't it be easy if...'! But keep in mind that nothing comes easy. A more luxurious lifestyle - and I mean that in terms of easy access to facilities - comes at a cost too, like needing two full-time jobs. You can continue to focus on all the challenges you face, or you can look for practical long-term solutions that go together with your life choices. Good luck!
Hey! We hope you enjoyed this week's video! We're wondering, after watching this, could you be a tiny home dweller? Or do you love the space to spread out? Let us know! Until next time, Jack & Gabby xxx
I love boats. But I would not raise my kid in it. Bad sleep effects child's brain development. After this point, I would not even consider any other pros or cons.
Narrowboats are great for a season.
@@thistinylife I love watching your boat life guys having baby joe and now he will be on the move it will be hard living in a small space . You are both doing a fab job stay cosy and warm it’s freezing here in Edinburgh today ❤️
@@thistinylife I downsized from a huge country house, after my husband died, 25 years ago, to a small basement flat, which has become my nest. Over the years, grown up children have stayed and the baby grandchildren. It’s amazing how many people you can put up on coat hangers. I do sympathise with your predicament, though. Good luck.
@@thistinylife When our kids got married we decided the house was to big,we now live in a 1 bed Cottage surrounded by woodlands . I love small because I don't see the point in heating rooms that are not being used,also there isn't much to clean in our tiny home which is a win win for us 😂. The garden is big enough to grow our vegetables and keep happy chickens. 😃
@lorraineowen7978 this sounds like such a beautiful life! Totally agree with the benefits of tiny living... We often see massive homes and wonder how on earth people keep on top of them! Do your chickens have names? X
I and my partner have lived aboard a 40 foot sailing boat for over 25 years. I don't feel that any of your challenges are insurmountable. Noise-try playing white noise to Jo in his sleeping area ,but, ultimately he will get used to the sounds around him, it's a stage. One that will pass. There is a reason for the saying 'shipshape and Bristol fashion'. You need a place for everything and everything in its place. Discipline is paramount. Use it then PUT IT AWAY. Immediately. Think ahead always-if you are going to need to wash up boil the water in advance. Fill the kettle and some pans before jo goes down to sleep. It's really not hard just takes planning. Procrastination is the thief of time. Concentrate on finishing the project you have started. If you open too many fronts at once you will get discouraged and overwhelmed. You can put money in the bank and it'll probably be there tomorrow but when the light goes down on the day it's over-never to be lived again. IMHO that's priceless. But having said all that this life may not be for you, a compromise too far. That's ok too.
Well said procrastination that's so true.
Have been watching you guys forever and love your vlogs. We sold our house and moved onto a 72 ft 1908 motorised converted butty with a 3 year old. With the dream of being self-sufficient, and less materialistic. Its an amazing way to live. We went on and had another child, so 2 children onboard. (1 at school, 1 at home in the day)It's definitely challenging but rewarding. We were lucky that our 72ft had a family living onboard before, so 3 bedrooms and a huge living space. The outdoor space is as important as indoors. We found land, have chickens, and grow veg. We love it. I'm sure you'll work it out. Maybe a big dutch barge is the next boat... Our 2 are now 26 and 21yrs old. We have all the 72ft space back, and it seems luxurious the space😂Keep up the great vlogs.
Survive the first 2 years of your kiddos life, and things very gradually get easier. This is particularly true if you don't have a good sleeper. The key is to be kind to each other. You're both exhausted. You're both at your wits end. There is no spare capacity/energy. This will be the case regardless of where you live. There's no greener pastures. Absolutely impossible to survive it if nit picking and blame gaming takes hold. Love, respect, trust and kindness is what gets you through.
Hi guys if you put some water in a kettle b4 jo goes to sleep then you can use it to wash up when he sleeps and you won't have to put tje water on 😊 xx hope it helps xx
A thought provoking episode. My principal advice is never let this channel become an obligation that compels you to maintain a lifestyle. You have rewarded your viewers with an insight into your fascinating way of life but feel free to move on if the situation necessitates, I would miss viewing your life afloat but would understand and respect any big decision you make.
A few domestic tweaks would make life much simpler, just imagine life with a gas hob in the galley powered by an LPG gas bottle or an extra 6ft of boat length or dropping off washing at a commercial laundry or even, even ( I dare not say it) 4 winter months ongrid in a marina… I know these would be compromises.
The underlying problem I have sensed over the past 6 months is that you are living in a travel machine but your daily eco interests have sown ties ashore such as the allotment and the bee hive.
My grandfatherly advise would be tough it out until March, then as the weather improves I hope you will rediscover your love of life on the towpath. I suggest reorientating your lives to your strengths. You are lifestyle explorers and you excel at documenting that journey. Your video production standards are exquisite, so it would be a shame if a large pile of laundry or bowl of unwashed crockery derailed the present journey.
I wonder if you should drop the allotment and sell the beehive, then navigate the waterways next summer plotting a course that videos others doing low-carbon cultivation ashore plus some alternative family lifestyle festivals.
There is a small issue of an extra 1000 amp hours of lithium battery to spin that propeller, where is that magic money tree when you need it?
Will be interesting to see how Jo and Vic and William cope with noat life with another wee baby!
My thoughts too, they're very good at coping with most things though.
You guys are doing amazing. Please remember little Joe knows no different, he has never had another experience of life. Every parent in whatever sized home/boat/tent etc goes through these concerns. Little Joe is changing and so are you. Maybe try exposing Joe to noises gradually whilst he sleeps, so the other noises dont over ride. Winter always seems hardest, for every generation, soon itll be Spring and the outdoors will be part of our lives again. Our Minds do tend to over think things, but life can be so simple. Much love xx
As a dad of two I recognise a lot of this. Ours are now 12 and 11. And looking back we now talk a lot about ‘seasons’. And right now you’re in one. And before you know it you will be in another one. Just adjust and give yourselves permission to change. It will be good!
Great to hear you being so open and honest. This will be the worst Winter for you. Probably should invest in an all terrain type buggy. I Found ours invaluable. Long walks in Winter. A really cosy weather proof sleeping bag and folds up very compact. Much better for getting Joe off to sleep now he is bigger. Walk Tilly at the same time. You can lift it onto the front of the boat to leave him to sleep when you get back.
Thank you! We have an all terrain buggy and punctured it in two days 😂 xx
Living in small spaces be it on land or water requires discipline and organization and simplicity - less is more and as my grandfather always taught clean up at the end of each day and start the morning fresh and new - clean as you go - talk less and do more - have a place for everything and everything in its place - those of us who grew up in large families with small spaces (5 children in a tiny 2 bedroom house) survived and thrived - if you want this lifestyle then focus on doing it and if it’s time for a change then work towards that with a well written plan -
Awww! That smile! Joe is such a beautiful baby
Remember this is a season in life. It has challenges and joy enjoy it. Things will change in the blink of an eye.
hats off to you guys for such a raw and honest video ❤🫂
our 2300 sq ft farmhouse burned in 2022. Long story short,we rebuilt an 800 sq ft cottage. doing the math tells us we had to get rid of 2/3 of our possessions. Hard. But we are in a season (kids just left the nest) where it has worked wonderfully for us. A smaller space has freed up so much time to pursue our interests not maintenance. You are in a different season. My advice (for what its worth) is to be very clear what your priorities are-really dig deep so you have less of those "I didn't think about this" moments. A larger space likely means less family time as someone/someones is working to afford a larger (yet still small space) but less day to day frustration. In the end, its all a balance and most everyones balance is different. Last bit of advice: think outside the box- I think you do that already, but what options could be possible for this season (which will change faster than you think)......Good Luck!
A rechargeable white
Noise machine might help smooth out the nap time needs.
You have a lovely family and your dreams of living off grid are exciting and interesting.
I don’t have any advice for the laundry. Our boat looks exactly the same when it’s laundry time.
Through CruisingTheCut many years ago,I started watching narrowboat channels.
Many have come and gone, others have downsized their UA-cam precense.
The amount of effort you put into sharing a story, filming, editing is amazing.
You almost hit the 20K subscribers target, though I expected this channel to grow big time like David´s channel.
I haven´t watched this video yet, though I can imagine that having a todler besides the limited for 2 - space, is a huge challenge.
Watching from Mexico, living just in the jungle, having much outdoor space, I can´t imagine living on a narrowboat anymore.
In my early 20´s I wanted to do exactly that, though never did.
I will watch the video and wish you the very best of luck wit whatever desicion you make.
A Dutch barn was already recommended, a wider boat that may meet the changed needs.
What ever you decide, I hope you take us along for the journey. ❤
Babies are lovely, but tend to be quite stressful wherever you live! Chances are you would be facing the same or similar set of stressors anywhere else, unless you wanted to employ nannies, lol. And even those come with problems. But the good thing is the issues are temporary - for example Joe will probably get used to the noises, or will be out of nappies sooner than you think. It really does get easier, and most new parents get extremely tired at some point - at least with an off grid-lifestyle you have loads of time and most of all, freedom, which others don't have.
That lovely little place you showed us earlier with the beautiful views, a place to grow your veggies...Was this a natural place to move on to? The cooking you love, and the need of space...Love to follow you in the choices you make. The followers will come with you🥰
Very thought provoking and knowing how much you enjoy the life on the waterways have you considered upgrading to a wider beamed barge and maybe a little longer so you have that bit more space. Whatever you do I know you'll do what's right for you all
When I was young, I raised my babies in the kitchen (the noisiest room) so they would get used to noise. What was especially nice was that when we got to visit friends, the kids would fall asleep anywhere in any position. It never bothered them. I think that children raised in silence have more nightmares. They grow into adults that have trouble sleeping unless it's silent, which means they can't travel. My friend's son can't even sleep if there's a clock in the house 😢. 🤷🏼♀️ You've got to make it easier on you.
❤
Dear Jack and Gabby
I have had the pleasure of watching your channel since day one. The two of you have handled life so well while over coming your many difficulties. Now you are approaching another door which is beginning to open. Remember that you have choices. You guys will once again figure it out.
Mark
Alberta, Canada
Well done with the chopper. Health is everything and you have it all. ❤
I have always wondered how you would fare when baby became a walker/ explorer/ jr. scientist/ tiny disaster locus. Boys need space to jump and climb and run. How will you manage? Looking forward to next episode.
Have you considered living in a marina….. with washing facilities, somewhere you can have a secure shed for dry wood storage etc? Or adding an insulated summer house to the allotment?
You have got such an adorable baby. My heart melts when I see him. And to be honest I watch your videos to see how much he’s grown. Take care
Hi guys I hope you’re well. I think you’ve done amazingly so far and have experienced an amazing chapter in your lives on the boat which you will cherish forever. I think having watched your channel from day 1 you may be at that point where it’s time for the next chapter. I really see you guys buying a small patch of agricultural land and building a tiny home on it. More space then you have now or at least more useable, space for Joe and Tilly to run, explore be free. And where you can grow your own veg etc and be as self sustainable as possible. It will still be “this tiny life” and your loyal followers will still tune in to support you. Good luck x ps .. for anyone not understanding your struggles they have not lived in your shoes. So do what works for you and makes your lives happier
I can only imagine life on the canal with a young baby could have its challenges during winter months ,not to mention living off-grid. Whatever you decide for your future plans will be the right choice for you all. ❤️😊
Reading through some of the comments, the advice is generally very good. As the sailing boat person said, you need discipline and forward planning - keep things 'ship-shape'! Also, play soothing music near Joe's cot so that it overrides other noises; children are resilient! They adapt.
💯 We used to hoover and all sorts around the babies. They’d sleep through anything!
Solution to your washing up issues...fill water up prior to baby going to bed and boil it to do washing up before going to bed ...sounds simple to me...I live in a small van most of the summer so literally 30 times smaller than your boat, wash sitting down, cook sitting down, etc etc...its all doable.
You guys like the slow relaxing organic lifestyle ! Boat life is very hard work.& that means planing everyday. Why not wash up and tidy around before joe goes down. You can both help while keeping an eye on joe in his little box as it is right next to to the sink area .. Joe doesn’t need holding 24/7 . And I lived in 1 room for 5 years with my son .. i kept things organised and I never tip toed around him, I had my tv or radio on, So he would sleep through anything lol. Maybe time to move to land maybe ?! Good luck either way .
Ahhh..it is really special to spend time together as a family in nature ,,with your boy.
❤❤❤
As a mum who has raised 4 children I understand the demands a tiny person can bring. For little people they definitely have an incredible amount of stuff. Also the toddler stage is difficult wherever you live as they are into everything. While living in a house is convenient that comes these days with an increasing cost. Also they are only little for a short amount of time. I would suggest perhaps like Joe and Vick rent a house for a time before parting ways with your boat. It does get easier as they get older. As for noise with my youngest I didn’t tip toe around and with three older siblings noise was inevitable and he learned to sleep through anything and still does including his alarm.
I watch people in my street, converting their lofts, buying their electric cars etc etc., and they cart their kids of to nursery, enjoy your off grid life, just keep minimalist.
As someone who had 4 children all one after the other I definitely know the overwhelming feelings - you feel you can't do more than you already do, but the answer to that is you have to concentrate on the priorities & agree with yourself that other things can wait. Those dishes in the morning are a big irritation, but that's just life - you hate them, but after a few minutes of cleanup they are done ! Maybe award yourselves some paper plates & concentrating on one-pan meals might relieve the dishes issue - and did you realize a fabulous sandwich can be just as nutritious as that 3 pans fancy recipe ? A lot of what we put ourselves thru is because of our own preconceived ideas of what 'normal' should be ! We are all trying to get things 'right' & that is a daily battle for everybody - chin up - you are doing a lovely job. I hope you make the right decisions for your life - if your need to become landlubbers now while you have a family, that's 'ok' - everybody understands why ! Thank you for sharing your life battles with us - wishing you the very best !
While this may not help your situation Gabby I want to also say that you are a lucky woman - you have a husband who actually helps - in the 'old' days men rarely took much notice of what their wives or mothers were going thru - it was all "women's work" and they simply ignored them - my husband was only half-way to modernity so I was often just stuck with it all myself, so please appreciate your husband - it could be so much worse & Jack - hang in there - this is all merely one phase of life, and thank you from an old bird for being one of the good guys !!!
My plan is to move out of my 1 bedroom flat into a tiny home on wheels at some point. I would like to achieve that next year, but we will see. There's a lot of steps involved in getting to that point. I am at a different life point to you, I am almost 50 and relish the thought of downsizing and changing my pace of life to be more intentional. You've gotta do what works for you and your little family. And life always changes. Embrace the change if that's what you need to do x
Yes definitely so much easier with just the two of you...
And always harder through the winter when you're stuck inside more and space seems crowded.
Stay strong guys, I know you'll make the right decision. Xx
Absolutely! It's all fun and games 🙂 x
aww, I would love to be off grid and have the freedom of a continual cruiser, however I love my 'stuff' . I love to cook, to grow my own, to preserve the gluts, my lovely huge fridge freezer, my washing machine, and other home comforts, and to keep my bees, so its bricks for me.
Wherever your life takes you, I hope you don't mind us peeking in every so often, like friends do, because that is how I think of you.
You are the first person who has said how I feel. I would love boat life but I too actually love my stuff. We are made to feel ashamed of that in this world of minimalism and decluttering, I am grateful for space 😊
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This is such a lovely comment Erica! We sound similar to you so balance between both worlds with the boat and allotment etc. I think a lot of people who choose to live off grid love the ability of being more self sufficient 🙂 one day we aim to have a small holding, but for now he boat gives us the best of both without owing lots of money to a bank. Thank you for watching, we love reading the comments here and really take it as a massive compliment that you see us as friends. It's such a lovely thing to say xxx
As in previous comments, i agee try to get through this winter. Children adapt to their surroundings, they know no difference.The boiling of the water previous to Joe going to bed is a good one, especially to clean the washing up before going to bed thus feeling better in the morning. These are all you decisions of course. If choosing to move into a brick built home the expenses will rocket puting pressure in your lives and children pick up on feelings. You're free at present toa certain repect. Good luck in whatever your life choses are. Take care stay warm🤗
Your number one priority is keeping the baby safe and healthy which will be more of a challenge very soon when hi is crawling. Good luck
One of the worse things you can do with a baby is give him quite, bustle around he will get used to it. However i would make sure i had a guard on that stove.
Great video Guy's glad you are all feeling better. Life is to short you are Young, enjoy yourselfWhy you can time goes so quickly.😊 you will have some Beautiful times on the canal and Wonderful memories to look back on. Keep safe and warm 🙏
So true! Thank you for watching and taking the time to comment xxx
All the best in what ever you decide,love your channel ❣️🇨🇦
I really enjoyed the video. I Love how honest you both about liveing on a narrowboat. And saying about the up and down. The way you live is lovely and i am sure you will both work it out. Have a lovely week all four of you. 🧑🎄☃️🎄
Thank you! This is a lovely comment and has made us smile :) xxxx
@@thistinylife Thank you both so much for messaging me back. It means the world to me. 🎄🧑🎄☃️
Maybe when you tire of towpath life you would prefer a smallholding with a patch of land and you could have chickens, sell some of your produce as well as your honey and a book of recipes of the food you make….Just a thought? We have a 50 ft narrowboat but are not liveaboards. We love to spend a few days at a time on board but I’m happy to get back to our house inbetween. Hey there is another outlet, you could air B and B your narrowboat to visitors?
One day this will be the grand plan! We're quite debt opposed however and don't like the idea of having a giant mortgage hanging over our head. This life gives freedom which we appreciate greatly 🙂 thanks for watching! Xxx
Great video glad you are all feeling better 😀
Er... why are you not filling up the kettle and a saucepan before little one's bedtime, then heat them on the hob so you can wash up without using the tap?
Totally understand 🙏... hope you can come up with a great plan 🍀🥰💖😘
Thank you! 🤗 Xxx
Get a big kettle,put it on the burner for hot water,thats what I do.
time to move back to land maybe? Lots of people live on the canals with children but maybe that's not for you? You have been fortunate to have this time all together for the past year. How about the barn and land you viewed? Could you convert the barn? Just a thought.
Grand to see you all be interesting to see what you decide to do can see the problems up to you what you decide to do blessings to you all love from your oldies 🤗🤗🤗🤗🤗
I love your channel, and how you have gone about things. perhaps the next step is to ask other parents how have children on their boats and how they cope. Could they give you the help you need and maybe a different way of doing things. Holly the coffee boat? They have a two year old I think and also Chugabug, they have two older children. Give them a buz and see if you can get some help from someone in the same situation. Luv n hugs to you all xxx
Nice to see you all, missed you. very interesting video although i absolutely love your lifestyle i have to say as Jo as got older i have been wondering how it would pan out, thinking ahead when hes a toddler and how much they climb and get about i think my fears come from years ago cruising down a river and my dog fell in the water and i didn't know he had for quite some time
.i won't go into all the details but you can imagine he nearly lost his life but didn't thank God. then another time on a narrowboat going into the lock the reverse gear linkage went and we crashed into it boiling pan of spuds went flying over someone's arm. I will stop there i am sorry i do tend to overthink things and have always been a worrier. I love you videos and I am sure what ever decision you make will be the right one sending love to you all xx
Argl! Talk about a cliffhanger! Nice one ! 😉😉😉
You wanted to buy that tiny farm a few episodes back. Why don't you sell the boat, buy the/a farm, and buy a tiny house or bus to live on the farm itself... That way no going back and forth to the boat all the time, you would have out buildings/sheds to stretch out a bit, and could still live off grid and much more self sufficiently.
This is a lovely idea - a smallholding is the dream for so many of us - but farmland in the UK is eye wateringly expensive. The UK has a population of about 68 million but a landmass approximately the size of Wyoming or Oregon to give you an idea of how limited land is here.
O no! A cliffhanger!
My philosophy on raising a baby is to try to make them bomb proof, meaning quite accustom to noise. Play the radio while they sleep. Don’t try to keep things quiet. When they are tired they will sleep. When I was a child I had a friend with 7 brothers and sisters. I remember the baby sleeping in the living room. The mother said he was bomb proof because of the constant noise in the house. You might consider building a shutter door over the end of the counter where the bottles are stored. It mght become necessary soon when the baby begins to crawl and grab.
You'll have your work cut out baby proofing the boat! \it looks like an amazing life thought
I love tiny living but I can imagine with a baby as well it's a struggle, especially with all the laundry! We are only two people and can never seem to get on top of it. I can see why you love narrowboat life with all the simple joys. Sounds like it's a hard balance between what's practical and what you love about the lifestyle
We have the same esse cooker as you, we tend to put smokeless fuel on tho keep it in overnight xx
They're such lovely stoves... As we said though, we try to avoid burning coal. We do in small amounts but are looking to find more environmentally friendly alternatives like compressed logs. We'll see 🙂
Hi guys, this year I moved from a 3 bedroom house into a 26' caravan on my own property. It's the closest I could get to a 'tiny house on wheels' and I am loving it. For a few months our cat & long-haired Weimarana are also living with me. The cat doesn't take up much space, however, living in a confined space with the family dog is akin to living with a Shetland Pony, I imagine 😅
Could you look at getting a larger boat?
I admire you - I could never be a tiny house dweller!
And I especially couldn’t live in one that was designed for two adults working from home and then had to be converted to accommodate a third shipmate!
But I do think that there are a few things that could make your life easier. One of them is relocating your water pump to the kitchen, or adding a second one in the kitchen and relocating the current one to your bedroom.
The second thing is a white noise machine. We have a 10.5yr age gap between my step child and my eldest, so we used a white noise machine from birth with both of our kids are our house was rarely quiet at nap/bed time.
However I can also see you guys moving to a plot and renovating an old cottage/farmhouse so you have the space to live your dreams. There are a few channels I watch with people doing that, from Ireland and Scotland to Portugal and France. So that might be a good medium term idea to get you settled before school becomes an issue!
I’m now having a tiny house built,really excited ❤ but I only have 2 small dogs,I can imagine the struggle for space with a baby having had my own,u 2 r amazing and u make it look easy,but I can imagine ur daily struggle with gorgeous little Joe 💙💙
How exciting! When is it due to be ready? Thank you for your comment :) xxx
Hey guys Joe is lovely . You have a nice life on your narrow boat your videos are always fab ❤️
Thanks so much! 😊 This is a really lovely comment xx
I ALWAYS tell people go by your instincts. Yesteryears are gone. The future brought into your personal world defiantly out weights the want. Find that happy medium. Off grib cottage in a small rural countryside. Defiantly wonderful for how you live now but becoming rooted. Gone with the flow changed didn't it now? Good luck in decision making❤
The Norwegians pop their babies outside in a pram to nap. Wrap them up and the cool fresh air helps them sleep. Adaptable?!
It’s so easy to slip into a “precious attitude “ towards our babies. In real life there will always be noise and light. Tiptoeing round babies or and putting them in a totally blacked out room for sleep is making a rod for one’s back. All that goes out the window when staying family and friends, or they come to visit you. It becomes tedious for everyone. And the baby or child doesn’t learn to be adaptable or how to cope when things aren’t quite perfect.
Simple answer! Where does the bedroom extension go, as they don't stay babies or small for long.
I understand what you’re saying, we ( couple and a teenager) live in a tiny house for 3 years now (tiny as in 17m2) , and even if we love our life and being outside all the time, the need for space (for cooking, reading or anything else on your own) is really overwhelming…
It's always a juggle! We make it work fairly well, there's always a lot to adjust to though isn't there!
you could possibly put some sort of silencing around the pump ,it sounds like its vibrating ,
A Dutch barge might be more practical for space with 2 bedrooms
Hi 👋🏽 you could boil a kettle before baby goes sleep to wash up or fill a flask 👍🏽
If babies fall asleep to noise then they usually sleep through it. Being quiet while they sleep isn’t always possible as you’re finding out bless you.
Wishing you well 😊
Wrap a bit of wire to make a handle around the cap for your little camping burner and it’ll be a piece of cake to put back on over the flame.
This is a great idea!
Could you use a small white noise machine for his naps? It wouldn't completely drown out the other noises of the boat, but maybe it would help him grow accustomed to sleeping through the day-to-day sounds of boat life.
Life is full of hard decisions and, like it or not, the seasons of our lives sometimes creep up on us and demand to be acknowledged. Good luck with your decisions and it isn't easy when you have to consider children and their needs.
That was a bit naughty keeping his waiting with that ending
I'm pretty sure that if you were to get a bigger boat with better facilities ie more working space in the kitchen may be two bedrooms looking forward, moving the water pump maybe an option , I know you probably want to be gas free but I think if you want to stay on the boat which I think you should, then this may be a small compromise to preserve your cherished way of life. I understand that money is an issue but you may be able to swap your boat for an ex hire one that has 2 bedrooms.that way you will have the best of both worlds . I honestly think with a few tweaks you can make a safer environment for the baby long term / good luck with it . I would def try to stay on the cut but a more family friendly boat.
That was a naughty ending. 😊
You might be surprised at how much babies sleep through noises they get used to. Try carrying on as normal and see what happens. It might work out OK....it might not too mind, lol. I'll miss you guys if you give it up! But, a small holding would be interesting to follow too? Just saying lol
I,m surprised that the baby doesn't just sleep through any noise, mine did... maybe see if he can get used to sounds whilst sleeping
He's a very light sleeper. To be honest there are constant phases, currently he's doing great 👍🏻
Consider a widebeam. I worry about the stove when Joe starts walking! What happened with the small holding you looked at? Any chance of putting a dwelling on the land?
I know you heavily invested in the new boat and made it electric; but do you think a wide beam could make the difference? Finances allowing, of course. Perhaps with more convenience in regard to appliances? Or would a wide beam negate the navigation of the network for you? You seem very settled on your Oxfordshire mooring. Tom
I think with a little one, it would be too much of a challenge for me. Not with a newborn, but once they start to move around, crawling, walking,that would be very difficult.However, I think I would prefer it over full-time van life with kids though. That one I couldn’t do, unless it was a converted school bus, or other larger vehicle.
Personally, I still dream of having a small piece of land with a tiny house on it. We currently live in what’s considered a smaller house in the US (just over 1400 square ft), with a large patio and decent back yard, but I would love to go smaller.
Yep, being able to spend that whole first year together is amazing, and that would make up for most of the inconveniences, for me🥰
What happened about the barn you went to see a few weeks back?
Oh wow!! What’s your decision!? Great vlog 🙏🏻❤️
Jo will soon get used to the noise of the pump and you guys moving around if you let him.
Ah man we discovered through generations of family advice tiptoeing around a sleeping child was not a good idea. They get used to the noises in a surprisingly short time. Give it a try, ultimately it will be a win for all of you. Merry Christmas and a happy new year guys.
How about considering something like an Airbnb for a week out of every four, or possibly for each weekend to give you the convenience of washing machine etc without the worry of electricity usage.
Great idea in comments to fill the kettle, fill pans for cooking veg etc & for washing up prior to Jo's sleep time. I think you'd hate living amongst other people in a permanent conventional home.
I would love a tiny home but I have a big Welshman for a husband!
You got this whatever you decide to do x love your videos 🎉❤
Thinking ahead & finding solutions isn't that difficult, apart from the space which can't change. Good luck as you navigate this phase - and when Joe becomes mobile 😮😅
Love following your journeys. Have you thought asking marrowwoodmakes, as they had several kids on their boat?? I bet they might have tips
Interesting video - hope you all work out the best way forward. Definitely not an easy lifestyle.
Keep on Xx
☺️ x
I love your life for you but I couldn’t do it I had 3 children all very into everything sports etc the stuff that goes with it …..it’s ok when you’re young I suppose but now in my 60s I like my home comforts plus we’re not in good health and having a house with a stairlift and converted bathroom is a must xx
Can you not fill the kettle or a jug before the little one goes to bed and wash up with that water. May make the mornings easier
Would a widebeam be more effective for the extra space you need?
Lived in 18 wheelers, one roomed cabins (10 yrs) & an RV. But I was alone for most of that.
Wife and I are retired, no kids. So I think we'd be ok.
But add a child, we'd be swamped.
Why do you assume that everything besides living on a narrowboat is - and I quote - "conventional living"? My husband and I have raised a child off-grid in quite extreme circumstances on the African continent. She's an adult now, ready to go to university to study medicine. We've all survived. Raising children is a challenge, no matter where you live. It doesn't matter if you live off-grid on land or on water. The chores will always be there. So the question is: do you want to switch to the grid again? Because this is not just a matter of how much space you have. A big space is often synonym for more work. Organisation and discipline are key to living a sustainable, off-grid life-style. Of course, there are moment where you think 'wouldn' 't it be easy if...'! But keep in mind that nothing comes easy. A more luxurious lifestyle - and I mean that in terms of easy access to facilities - comes at a cost too, like needing two full-time jobs. You can continue to focus on all the challenges you face, or you can look for practical long-term solutions that go together with your life choices. Good luck!
maybe your next journey can be a tiny house?! and you don't have to change the name of your channel! 😁