The Leding family chose a minimal, intentional path, trading a hectic city life for a simple routine rooted in daily chores, local markets, and quiet evenings at home. Many people now ask where are they now and how sustainable that shift really is over the long term.
By focusing on small daily habits, financial tightness, and community ties, they redesigned a lifestyle that looks unfamiliar to some neighbors yet deeply stable to them. The following sections track their movement, routines, and long term outlook through clear data and ongoing changes.
| Name | Location 2022 | Location 2024 | Main Income Source | Housing Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mia Leding | Seattle, WA | Boulder, CO | Freelance Design | Shared Tiny Home |
| Jon Leding | Seattle, WA | Boulder, CO | Remote Software Consulting | Shared Tiny Home |
| Lia Leding | Age 7 | Age 9 | N/A | Home School |
| House Location | Urban Apartment | Rural Edge Lot | Mixed Remote | Renovated Shed |
daily routine and simple habits
Mornings begin with breakfast using bulk oats and seasonal fruit, followed by a short walk to a neighborhood garden where Lia helps water public beds. Jon logs into client calls from a shared workspace at the local library, while Mia manages design revisions on a lightweight laptop that draws minimal power.
Evenings are reserved for simple dinner prep, card games, and reading, with strict screen limits after 8 p.m. to protect sleep and focus. This rhythm keeps energy use low, reduces decision fatigue, and anchors the family in a predictable, calming structure.
housing and community integration
They moved from a two bedroom apartment to a renovated shed on a small plot, using reclaimed materials and solar panels to stay off grid as much as possible. The new home sits near a community garden, a co working space, a small school, and a modest medical clinic, making daily errands walkable.
Local neighbors trade childcare, tools, and produce, which lowers costs and builds trust. By participating in monthly clean up days and a neighborhood skill share, the Leding family stays visible, supported, and less dependent on distant services.
work, income, and long term planning
Jon maintains long term clients, while Mia explores regional design contracts, allowing them to keep a steady cash flow without overworking. They set quarterly goals for savings, skill development, and travel, always tying new plans back to their simplicity principles.
Health insurance, an emergency fund, and small monthly investments in low cost index funds create a buffer against shocks. Regular reviews of expenses and time use help them adjust priorities before stress builds up.
environment and location impact
Living on the rural edge reduces their commuting footprint and gives their daughter access to safe outdoor play. The family relies on walking, biking, and infrequent public transport, which cuts fuel costs and air pollution.
Water is harvested from roof runoff, and food waste feeds compost piles that support the community garden. These low tech choices strengthen local soil, support pollinators, and keep their lifestyle aligned with environmental values.
key points and recommendations
- Define core values first, then align housing, work, and location to those priorities.
- Test remote work and short term rentals before making a permanent move.
- Choose places with walkable services, reliable transit, and active community groups.
- Keep a lean budget, an emergency fund, and diversified income streams for resilience.
- Measure progress with simple routines, regular reviews, and clear guardrails on spending and screen time.
FAQ
Reader questions
How did the Leding family decide to move from Seattle to Boulder and simplify their lifestyle?
They prioritized lower living costs, access to nature, and better public services for their child, then tested remote work options before committing to the move.
What does their daily schedule look like now compared to their city years?
Their day starts earlier but feels calmer, with shared meals, walkable errands, limited screen time, and protected family hours instead of long commutes and office meetings.
How do they manage health care and income stability outside a major job market?
They kept remote clients, used a local clinic, maintained a solid emergency fund, and chose a location with affordable housing so that income shocks do not immediately force relocation.
What advice do they give to other families considering a similar shift?
Start small by testing remote work and lower rent areas, define clear financial and lifestyle goals, and build community ties before fully committing to the change.