this is a blog/website for anyone who wants to live more simply. And for us that means: to work at continually reducing our need for money, becoming healthier, and acting sustainably in everything we do.
Starting with who we are. Maureen & Phil Rooksby. And both in our early fifties in case you thought this was only for young people. Born in London. Moved first to Milton Keynes, then North Yorkshire (England), after which we took the monumental step of converting an old battered parcel van and living on the road as nomads. First in Galicia (NW Spain), progressing to sheltering in a succession of derelict farm buildings en-route to the SW of Portugal, where we explored for five years. Then a brief sojurn (6 months) living on a tiny island paradise in Canada (Texada) trying to get visas to stay, after which we returned reluctantly to Europe and by accident found a place almost as perfect. In the hills of Almonaster la Real (the Sierra of Aracena, Andalucia, Spain) - where we bought a plot of land in June (2009). Having been on the road by then for nine years.
We decided to post this blog/website because throughout our journey, we haven´t come across a single book or website that could help or share what we sought. A simpler life. Plenty that claimed to, but none which addressed the three core values as being interconnected/ integral, and none aimed at those (like us) who have virtually none of the practical skills/ aptitude required to live off the land. This then is our way to help others on a similar path, and where we those who are already well established we hope will share their experiences/ skills. Please feel free to get in touch (see the contact page).
the major priorities for a simpler life therefore are as follows:
First, to live without debt (no mortgage/ rent/ or outrageous community charge to pay).
Second, with our own water supply. Either as a spring (preferable, but rare), or borehole. Natural, unpolluted, water and with year-round availability, sufficient for all our household and irrigation needs.
Third, where the land is well above sea-level. 600 metres being our ideal. This is because the higher you go the less extreme the temperature becomes (both in winter and summer), humidity is less, pollution minimal, and there's no risk of flooding.
Fourth, south-facing. Having lived with all the other orientations this is by far the best. The widest range of crops can be grown, and over a much longer season. Maximum potential for solar power. And the house is not only warmer in winter but much lighter inside.
Fifth, soil. As sandy as possible.
Sixth, distance from neighbours (>200m), nearest population (no more than 600 people) (>2km), and city (>100km).
Seventh. with a traditional building to repair. Self-build sounds like a wonderful idea, but in practice not only don't you know what you'll need until it's too late, only the worst compromise will get past planning officers. This way we get round it all.
Eighth, enough land to be sustainable, 10 hectares of land or 5 per person.
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