Tours
Woman quits corporate job and builds adorable tiny home for just $9K
She wanted a simpler, happier life – and she found it.
Michael Dabu
06.06.23

A lot of people are stuck in the everyday grind time, doing 2 to 3 jobs or even more just to get by. Sadly, most of us do not have a choice because we have a family that we need to support in almost all aspects of life.

During these trying times, it’s hard not to grab every opportunity that comes our way simply because not everyone has it. However, we should also remember that life is a journey and it would always include risks in exchange for rewards.

That’s what exactly happened to this then-“corporate slave” who took a swing at life and luckily made a home run.

A life-changing realization

YouTube Screenshot - Tiny House Giant Journey
Source:
YouTube Screenshot - Tiny House Giant Journey

Rita Marie Carr was a former software firm employee from Dallas. One day, she finally realized there’s more to life than being stuck in an office chair. So, she laid all her remaining cards on the table on a remarkable journey to embrace a nomadic lifestyle.

The then “corporate slave” was dissatisfied with the demands of her corporate job. On the contrary, she found immense inspiration from her love for adventure, so Rita transformed an old Ford shuttle into an adorable tiny home.

She now lives on the road with her two canine companions, and together, they share all the fun and challenges that they literally face along the way.

Choosing what she truly loves

YouTube Screenshot - Tiny House Giant Journey
Source:
YouTube Screenshot - Tiny House Giant Journey

Rita initially believed that climbing the corporate ladder and earning more money would bring her fulfillment. However, after spending time on the road in her Jeep Wrangler, she realized the incompatibility between her nomadic spirit and the demands of her job.

The young woman was determined to pursue her passion for travel and freedom. That’s why she invested in a Ford shuttle which she deemed capable of accommodating her on-the-go lifestyle.

The creation of their new home

YouTube Screenshot - Tiny House Giant Journey
Source:
YouTube Screenshot - Tiny House Giant Journey

With her newly acquired vehicle, Rita spent five weeks and two days and converted the bus into her dream tiny home which she named Wilbur.

Previously adorned in an uninspiring green and white color scheme, the bus underwent a remarkable transformation under Rita’s skillful hands and wide imagination. She spent around six hours meticulously sanding and painting it in a vibrant shade of pink, reflecting her unique style.

The cons of living in a mobile house

Rita encountered a terrifying incident when the original doors of Wilbur unexpectedly gave way during a drive. Trash, dog leashes, and other items were all over the highway. To bring back Wilbur’s beauty, she promptly replaced the doors with a suitable alternative purchased from Habitat for Humanity.

The unfortunate incident highlighted Rita’s determination to overcome obstacles and adapt to the challenges of life on the road.

A small but functional home

YouTube Screenshot - Tiny House Giant Journey
Source:
YouTube Screenshot - Tiny House Giant Journey

Inside her adorable tiny home, Rita has thoughtfully designed various features to maximize its space and ensure comfort.

She added doors, including one with a wheelchair lift and another that serves as a shower, all these enhanced its overall functionality.

With a 12V propane water heater and a six-gallon water tank, Rita enjoys four refreshing showers. To ensure convenient battery charging even during limited sunlight, the bus was equipped with a 400-watt solar panel system integrated with the alternator.

Her house – her rules

YouTube Screenshot - Tiny House Giant Journey
Source:
YouTube Screenshot - Tiny House Giant Journey

Rita has personalized every corner of Wilbur. From decorating the dashboard and steering wheel with her favorite color, pink, to installing storage units above the windshield.

She has totally transformed her tiny home into a reflection of her creativity and resourcefulness. The ceiling that was crafted from pallet wood, adds a unique aesthetic and evokes memories of Rita’s trips to Home Depot.

A dedicated coffee station, where she indulges in her love for coffee, and an art studio with ample workspace and storage for her supplies, showcase Rita’s personality and passions.

Priceless treasures

YouTube Screenshot - Tiny House Giant Journey
Source:
YouTube Screenshot - Tiny House Giant Journey

Beyond convenience and functionality, Rita’s adorable tiny home offers a sheltered indoor space, ample lighting, and protection from the elements. It serves as a sanctuary during her nomadic lifestyle.

She cherishes a small cup holder, the sole ceramic or glass item inside the bus that was a gift from her late mother. Rita’s guests are playfully warned about damp paint in the drying spots around the bus, adding a touch of humor to their visit.

Living spaces and flexibility

YouTube Screenshot - Tiny House Giant Journey
Source:
YouTube Screenshot - Tiny House Giant Journey

Rita’s living room, doubling as her bedroom, features a convertible sofa that folds out into a queen-size bed. While she occasionally unfolds it for overnight guests, she prefers the abundant space shared with her furry companions.

The living room exudes vibrancy, thanks to the numerous doors incorporated into its design. The middle area of the bus now functions as Rita’s closet, providing valuable storage since she installed showers on the side door. On the opposite side, her well-designed kitchen allows her to indulge in her culinary pursuits while enjoying the mobility and comfort of her tiny home.

Nothing is impossible

YouTube Screenshot - Tiny House Giant Journey
Source:
YouTube Screenshot - Tiny House Giant Journey

Rita Marie Carr’s transformation from a corporate employee living in an apartment to a nomadic adventurer in her adorable tiny home exemplifies the pursuit of personal fulfillment and freedom.

Through her creativity and resourcefulness, Rita has created a comfortable and personalized living space on wheels.

With each new journey, she embraces the challenges and cherishes the memories made along the way. Rita’s story is an inspiration for those seeking an alternative lifestyle that prioritizes exploration, self-expression, and the pursuit of happiness.

Have a virtual tour inside Rita’s tiny mobile home by watching the video below.

Please SHARE this with your friends and family.

Advertisement