A Summer of Simple Living: Cabin Life Before the Bathroom

A couple of years back, we reached a new milestone in our journey toward simple living: we began spending real time at the cabin. Not just quick visits or work weekends—but cooking, eating, and sleeping there. It felt like such a big step. The only catch? The bathroom wasn’t finished yet.

So how did I manage, especially with kids in tow? Well... let's just say, it was an adventure.

Luckily, that summer was mostly kind. Warm days and mild nights meant that my makeshift “bucket and sink” washes were doable—maybe not ideal, but they worked. When the weather wasn't quite so cooperative or when I needed a proper clean-up (especially after long days or with the kids), I relied heavily on my membership at the local hotel’s leisure club, with thanks to Barnstaple Hotel and Leisure Club. Swimming, showering, a little bit of luxury—it was something I deeply appreciated during that transitional phase.

The shower situation was one thing, but the toilet... well, that was another story. Our cabin toilet didn’t flush properly at the time, so we got by with a camping toilet and a few trusty buckets of water for flushing. It wasn’t glamorous, and yes, it did get frustrating. I love camping—but when you're living like you're camping every day, the novelty can wear thin.

Still, it was a season of progress.

Living like that—half-built, half-dreaming—was actually a step forward. It marked a turning point in our build, and it reminded me how far we’d come. That summer taught me resilience and patience, and perhaps most importantly, it made me deeply grateful for things many of us take for granted: a plumbed-in toilet, a hot shower, a tap that runs just when you need it.

Now, looking back, I smile. Because even though it wasn’t always easy, it was ours. Our journey. Our slow but steady path towards a simpler, more intentional life.

Plus when the bathroom was finally finished, it felt like absolute luxury.