Latest news with #Katrina
CBS News
6 hours ago
- Science
- CBS News
Some sections of New Orleans' flood walls sinking at rate of nearly 2 inches per year, study finds
New Orleans — As the Atlantic hurricane season officially begins next week, a new study published Friday by researchers at Tulane University reveals hotspots in New Orleans' concrete flood walls which had been strengthened in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. The study found that the city's concrete flood walls are sinking faster than sea levels are rising, reducing capacity to block storm surges in some neighborhoods. "There is certainly a potential in the future, if these rates continue, to degrade our level of protection of the flood protection system," Tulane professor Mead Allison, a co-author on the study, told CBS News. This summer marks 20 years since Katrina made landfall on the Gulf Coast, leaving more than 1,300 people dead and displacing more than a million people across the region. Following the destructive storm, $15 billion was spent to reinforce a levy system designed to keep water out. New Orleans, much of which lies below sea level, relies on this elaborate system of levees, pumps and drainage canals. The study, published in the journal Science Advances, used satellite radar data to track shifts in ground elevation across the Greater New Orleans area between 2002 and 2020. It found that while most of the city remains stable, some neighborhoods, wetlands, and even sections of the region's post-Katrina flood protection system are sinking by more than an inch per year — with some areas experiencing up to 47 millimeters, or nearly 2 inches, of elevation loss annually. "In a city like New Orleans, where much of the land is already near sea level, even minor drops in elevation can increase flood risk," said Simone Fiaschi — lead author of the study and a former researcher with Tulane's Department of River-Coastal Science and Engineering, now employed at TRE-Altamira — in a statement. "These results are a wake-up call," Allison said. "We need ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure that our flood defenses don't lose their level of protection beneath us." If trends continue, and infrastructure is left unchecked, the study found wetlands east of the city could transform marshes into open water within the next 10 years if trends continue — effectively eliminating critical storm surge buffers to the Louisiana coast. The study also identified some potential causes of the sinking hotspots. It found pockets of land are sinking around industrial sites, the Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport, and newer residential developments — areas where soil compression and groundwater withdrawal are likely contributors. Researchers said the findings also underscore a few potential solutions to better protect New Orleans and other coastal communities across the globe, including frequent upgrades to the flood protection system and satellite monitoring. Some residents living in the Michoud neighborhood on the city's east side — one of the areas identified in the study as sinking more rapidly than others — are concerned that maintenance won't be prioritized. Michoud resident Synthia Viltus pointed out that potholes and other smaller infrastructure issues in her neighborhood have remained unresolved for months. "I have zero faith in state federal leaders to keep the levies updated," Viltus said. The study did find a positive — some areas where industrial activities had been halted had actually caused the land to lift back up. The study's authors also hope their work will help guide other coastal cities who may be facing similar challenges to New Orleans. "This research shows that land movement isn't uniform, and understanding these patterns is crucial for protecting lives and property in a city where inches truly matter," Fiaschi said in the statement. "However, it's crucial to remember that our results still require careful ground-truthing. This is especially true for critical areas like the floodwalls, where on-site verification was not possible during this project." When reached by CBS News, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers said the levies are designed to last for at least another 25 years. USACE added it is already in the process of upgrading the levies so they can last another 50 years.
Black America Web
18 hours ago
- Health
- Black America Web
'Essence' Celebrates Susan L. Taylor In 55th Anniversary Issue
Source: Johnny Nunez / Getty For its 55th anniversary, Essence magazine is paying tribute to one of its most legendary figures, iconic journalist, mental health advocate, and former Editor-in-Chief, Susan L. Taylor. At 79, Taylor is still dropping gems, sharing timeless wisdom about faith, purpose, and the importance of community healing. Though it's been 17 years since Taylor stepped down from her historic role as Essence's Editor-in-Chief and Beauty Editor, her mission to uplift and empower Black communities hasn't wavered and has not been forgotten. In fact, it's only grown. During an interview published June 25 and conducted by her longtime mentee, award-winning author and journalist asha bandele, Taylor reflected on the divine power of service, and how it continues to guide her writing and advocacy. Under her legendary role as Editor-in-Chief, Taylor spent years penning the beloved monthly column 'In the Spirit,' where she shared powerful reflections on spirituality, personal growth, and inner healing, sharing all the ups and downs of her life and lessons readers gravitated to. Essence Celebrates Susan L. Taylor 'I just said, be yourself. Write about what you care about most and what you're most interested in investigating. And it was spirituality,' the icon told bandele in an interview for the exclusive feature. The Harlemite originally launched Essence CARES in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina in 2005, calling on the collective compassion of the Black community to support displaced and traumatized children in New Orleans. That initiative evolved into the National CARES Mentoring Movement, a nationwide organization focused on healing and transforming the lives of Black youth through mentoring and holistic development. Today, National CARES continues to recruit and mobilize Black mentors across the country, connecting them with local youth organizations. Its programs focus not just on academic success, but on the emotional and mental well-being of both children and the adults who care for them. As Taylor shared in her powerful conversation with bandele, it's the spirit of service—and a deep commitment to mental health and spiritual wellness—that fuels her work to this day. 'I don't name it courage. It's service. And if you love the community and you're devoted to serving the community, you do and deliver what the community needs.' Taylor saw Essence as not only a tool to center Black stories and perspectives but as an opportunity to inform a larger audience about the issues impacting our community. Since leaving Essence, she's poured her heart and soul into highlighting the mental health crisis impacting Black youth. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), suicide, a sequela of untreated depression, rose sharply among Black teens from 8.2% in 2018 to 11.2% in 2021, reflecting an alarming 36.6% increase. In 2021, suicide became the third leading cause of death among Black youth. Sadly, a 2024 study indicated that Black teens experienced a higher prevalence of dysthymic disorder, also known as persistent depressive disorder, with rates peaking during the pandemic. Researchers believe this surge may have been triggered by the traumatic loss of life, poverty, violence, social isolation, and systemic disparities that worsened during this period. 'Many of our finest organizations, including ones closest to us, do transformational work by changing policies on voting, criminal justice, and healthcare. We need that work desperately. But still, there is no lobbying at those levels to protect Black children and lift them out of poverty,' Taylor told bandele. 'We knew then what we know now: Policies alone do not change systems, as evidenced by the 1954 Supreme Court's Brown v. Board of Education decision declaring racial segregation in public education illegal. Despite that unanimous decision, 71 years later, our schools are even more segregated. No one is coming to save our babies—or us. This is our work to do!' Taylor isn't just talking the talk—she's walking the walk. Under her leadership, the National CARES Mentoring Movement has become a vital resource for Black youth and their families across the country. One of the organization's standout initiatives is In Wellness Mentoring Circles, where licensed psychologists, social workers, and trained community mentors guide young people through dynamic, culturally grounded, and trauma-informed programming. These interactive sessions help build social-emotional skills, self-confidence, and a sense of personal power, all within a judgment-free environment rooted in love and care. For parents, National CARES offers the University for Parents (U4P), a healing-centered workforce readiness program designed to help caregivers overcome both systemic and self-imposed barriers to success. Through partnerships with local organizations, U4P provides wraparound services that support not just parents but their entire families, promoting stability, empowerment, and long-term growth. Reflecting on her incredible life's work, Taylor thanked God for allowing her to walk in her purpose. 'God is alive in you, take pause and listen,' she added during her beautiful heart-to-heart with bandele. DON'T MISS… How The Fear Of Dying From Blood Cancer Helped Me Live Former Essence Editor-in-Chief Details Why She Left Time Inc. 'Essence' Celebrates Susan L. Taylor In 55th Anniversary Issue, Honoring Her Legacy Of Leadership was originally published on
Scottish Sun
a day ago
- Lifestyle
- Scottish Sun
I traded in my flat for a £26k caravan, everyone tells me I made a huge mistake but I'm laughing all the way to the bank
Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) SINKING back into her plush sofa, Katrina flicks on her electric fire while she admires the gorgeous interiors of her dream home. With her chic open plan living space complete with a stylish kitchen and coordinating sitting room you would be forgiven for thinking Katrina lives in a posh London flat. 8 Katrina ditched dodgy rentals for her own £26,000 caravan Credit: Jam Press 8 Looking at the interior you would struggle to believe it was a caravan Credit: Jam Press 8 While she has a little less space than before she says she barely notices Credit: Jam Press But the reality is that Katrina's perfect pad is a static caravan. Katrina, 31, ditched the rental market after years of dealing with poor living conditions and financial stress and says she has never been happier. The business owner, who lives in the south of England, instead chose to invest £26,000 in a 2021 caravan – a move she calls the most freeing decision of her life. But not everyone agrees and Katrina regularly has to deal with people calling her decision a 'waste of money' on TikTok. 'Getting a mortgage just wasn't on the cards,' Katrina says. 'I could have rented, but in my area, a basic one or two-bedroom flat is around £1,000 a month. 'With bills, you're looking at closer to £1,700. I didn't want to live just to pay bills. 'I value quality of life, and the caravan offered me a more affordable, freeing alternative. 'Honestly, I didn't have many other options, and this one made the most sense.' After viewing a series of 'cold, mouldy and badly maintained' flats, Katrina was inspired by a friend living in a caravan park. Watch the video to see inside the family-of-seven's caravan home One visit later, and she knew she'd found her new home. She moved in March 2025 – and hasn't looked back since. Katrina says she's making massive savings compared to before – spending £528 a month on ground rent, Wi-Fi, gas and electric. 'I know I made the right decision for me,' she says. 'I'd viewed a few flats that were, quite frankly, depressing. Cold, mouldy, and badly maintained. 'Then I visited a friend who lives on the park I'm now in, and I'd always loved where she was. It just clicked. 'I reached out to the park owner to see what was available, and that's when I found my caravan. 'Everyone around me has been so supportive. 'Most people actually think it's a brilliant idea and have even considered doing something similar.' 8 Katrina says she would never return to bricks and mortar Credit: Jam Press 8 As well as more money she is thrilled with the more relaxed style of life Credit: Jam Press 8 Trolls have told her that her caravan is a waste of money but she says it's far from it Credit: Jam Press However, Katrina says she's faced some snide comments about her choice on her TikTok page, Katrinas Caravan. She said: 'On TikTok there's been some negative comments, but it doesn't phase me. 'Unless you've walked in someone else's shoes, you can't always understand their choices, and that's okay. 'People who are quick to judge often have their own stuff to work through. I'm happy for them to form opinions.' Living alone in the caravan, Katrina says she finally feels like she can breathe – both emotionally and financially. Having disposable income is the best part. I hadn't experienced that in years Katrina She's even found an unexpected community. She said: 'Having disposable income is the best part. I hadn't experienced that in years. 'I even managed to take a few days off work and just enjoy myself – something that used to feel impossible under financial pressure. 'My 90-year-old neighbour came round every day to check on me when I sprained my knee. 'That sort of kindness and connection wasn't something I ever had in previous places I lived.' Katrina says that hers is far from a stereotypical caravan. She explains: 'Once you're inside, you'd never guess it was a caravan. I'm decorating room by room, adding my own touches. 'I live quite minimally, and the caravan has brilliant storage. How much does it cost to live in a caravan? LIVING in a caravan can be an economical and flexible lifestyle choice in the UK. Here's a breakdown of potential costs: Initial Costs Caravan Purchase: £8,000 - £40,000 (depending on size, age, and condition) £8,000 - £40,000 (depending on size, age, and condition) Caravan Insurance: £200 - £800 per year Ongoing Monthly Costs Pitch Fees: £150 - £600 (varies by location and facilities) £150 - £600 (varies by location and facilities) Utilities (Electricity, Gas, Water): £40 - £120 £40 - £120 Maintenance and Repairs: £20 - £80 £20 - £80 Internet and TV: £20 - £50 £20 - £50 Gas for Heating/Cooking: £15 - £40 Other Potential Costs Waste Disposal Fees: £8 - £25 £8 - £25 Transport Costs (if moving locations): Variable, depending on distance Variable, depending on distance Optional Add-ons (Awning, Solar Panels, etc.): £400 - £1,600 (one-time) Sample Monthly Budget Pitch Fees: £400 £400 Utilities: £80 £80 Maintenance and Repairs: £40 £40 Internet and TV: £40 £40 Gas for Heating/Cooking: £25 £25 Total: £585 Annual Estimated Cost Total Monthly Costs: £585 x 12 = £7,020 £585 x 12 = £7,020 Insurance: £500 £500 Maintenance and Repairs: £480 £480 Total Annual Cost: £8,000 Tips to Save Off-Peak Pitch Fees: Look for lower rates during off-peak seasons. Look for lower rates during off-peak seasons. DIY Maintenance: Handle minor repairs yourself. Handle minor repairs yourself. Energy Efficiency: Invest in solar panels to reduce utility costs. While initial setup costs can be significant, ongoing expenses for living in a caravan can be relatively low, making it a viable option for those seeking an affordable and mobile lifestyle in the UK. 'Everything has its place. I'm not tripping over anything, and it actually feels spacious and calm. 'Everyone seems to want to come to mine now because they love it so much. They call it a cosy sanctuary.' However, there are some downsides, like not having a washing machine or anywhere to dry clothes. Katrina adds: 'Things like cooking are no different than when I was in a flat, except I might have to be a bit smarter with space. 'I've got a lovely walk-in shower in my bathroom, so no complaints there. I've gained other luxuries – peaceful surroundings, a slower pace of life, and access to lovely leisure facilities. Katrina 'Laundry is a bit more of a juggle – I either use the on-site laundry or drop a bag to my sister when I see her. 'Drying clothes was a bit annoying, so I bought a clothes line for outside. 'I'm also looking to get an outdoor washing machine too.' Despite a few minor headaches, Katrina says that she can't imagine herself going back to bricks and mortar. 'Never say never, but I doubt I'd ever go back to renting,' she says. 'Even if I don't live in a caravan forever, I think I'll always want to live a little differently. Maybe a lodge or even something off-grid that I build myself 'I've gained other luxuries – peaceful surroundings, a slower pace of life, and access to lovely leisure facilities. It's been a trade-up, not a sacrifice.' 8 She now counts her 'peaceful surroundings' as one of her luxuries Credit: Jam Press
The Irish Sun
a day ago
- Lifestyle
- The Irish Sun
I traded in my flat for a £26k caravan, everyone tells me I made a huge mistake but I'm laughing all the way to the bank
SINKING back into her plush sofa, Katrina flicks on her electric fire while she admires the gorgeous interiors of her dream home. With her chic open plan living space complete with a stylish 8 Katrina ditched dodgy rentals for her own £26,000 caravan Credit: Jam Press 8 Looking at the interior you would struggle to believe it was a caravan Credit: Jam Press 8 While she has a little less space than before she says she barely notices Credit: Jam Press But the reality is that Katrina's perfect pad is a Katrina, 31, ditched the rental market after years of dealing with poor living conditions and financial stress and says she has never been happier. The business owner, who lives in the south of England, instead chose to invest £26,000 in a But not everyone agrees and Katrina regularly has to deal with people calling her decision a 'waste of money' on TikTok. Read More on Real Lives 'Getting a mortgage just wasn't on the cards,' Katrina says. 'I could have rented, but in my area, a basic one or two-bedroom flat is around £1,000 a month. 'With bills, you're looking at closer to £1,700. I didn't want to live just to pay bills. 'I value quality of life, and the caravan offered me a more affordable, freeing alternative. Most read in Fabulous 'Honestly, I didn't have many other options, and this one made the most sense.' After viewing a series of 'cold, mouldy and badly maintained' flats, Katrina was inspired by a friend living in a caravan park. Watch the video to see inside the family-of-seven's caravan home One visit later, and she knew she'd found her new home. She moved in March 2025 – and hasn't looked back since. Katrina says she's making massive savings compared to before – spending £528 a month on ground rent, Wi-Fi, gas and electric. 'I know I made the right decision for me,' she says. 'I'd viewed a few flats that were, quite frankly, depressing. Cold, mouldy, and badly maintained. 'Then I visited a friend who lives on the park I'm now in, and I'd always loved where she was. It just clicked. 'I reached out to the park owner to see what was available, and that's when I found my caravan. 'Everyone around me has been so supportive. 'Most people actually think it's a brilliant idea and have even considered doing something similar.' 8 Katrina says she would never return to bricks and mortar Credit: Jam Press 8 As well as more money she is thrilled with the more relaxed style of life Credit: Jam Press 8 Trolls have told her that her caravan is a waste of money but she says it's far from it Credit: Jam Press However, Katrina says she's faced some snide comments about her choice on her TikTok page, Katrinas Caravan. She said: 'On TikTok there's been some negative comments, but it doesn't phase me. 'Unless you've walked in someone else's shoes, you can't always understand their choices, and that's okay. 'People who are quick to judge often have their own stuff to work through. I'm happy for them to form opinions.' Living alone in the caravan, Katrina says she finally feels like she can breathe – both emotionally and financially. Having disposable income is the best part. I hadn't experienced that in years Katrina She's even found an unexpected community. She said: 'Having disposable income is the best part. I hadn't experienced that in years. 'I even managed to take a few days off work and just enjoy myself – something that used to feel impossible under financial pressure. 'My 90-year-old neighbour came round every day to check on me when I sprained my knee. 'That sort of kindness and connection wasn't something I ever had in previous places I lived.' Katrina says that hers is far from a stereotypical caravan. She explains: 'Once you're inside, you'd never guess it was a caravan. I'm decorating room by room, adding my own touches. 'I live quite minimally, and the caravan has brilliant storage. How much does it cost to live in a caravan? LIVING in a caravan can be an economical and flexible lifestyle choice in the UK. Here's a breakdown of potential costs: Initial Costs Caravan Purchase: £8,000 - £40,000 (depending on size, age, and condition) Caravan Insurance: £200 - £800 per year Ongoing Monthly Costs Pitch Fees: £150 - £600 (varies by location and facilities) Utilities (Electricity, Gas, Water): £40 - £120 Maintenance and Repairs: £20 - £80 Internet and TV: £20 - £50 Gas for Heating/Cooking: £15 - £40 Other Potential Costs Waste Disposal Fees: £8 - £25 Transport Costs (if moving locations): Variable, depending on distance Optional Add-ons (Awning, Solar Panels, etc.): £400 - £1,600 (one-time) Sample Monthly Budget Pitch Fees: £400 Utilities: £80 Maintenance and Repairs: £40 Internet and TV: £40 Gas for Heating/Cooking: £25 Total: £585 Annual Estimated Cost Total Monthly Costs: £585 x 12 = £7,020 Insurance: £500 Maintenance and Repairs: £480 Total Annual Cost: £8,000 Tips to Save Off-Peak Pitch Fees: Look for lower rates during off-peak seasons. DIY Maintenance: Handle minor repairs yourself. Energy Efficiency: Invest in solar panels to reduce utility costs. While initial setup costs can be significant, ongoing expenses for living in a caravan can be relatively low, making it a viable option for those seeking an affordable and mobile lifestyle in the UK. 'Everything has its place. I'm not tripping over anything, and it actually feels spacious and calm. 'Everyone seems to want to come to mine now because they love it so much. They call it a cosy sanctuary.' However, there are some downsides, like not having a washing machine or anywhere to dry clothes. Katrina adds: 'Things like cooking are no different than when I was in a flat, except I might have to be a bit smarter with space. 'I've got a lovely walk-in shower in my bathroom, so no complaints there. I've gained other luxuries – peaceful surroundings, a slower pace of life, and access to lovely leisure facilities. Katrina 'Laundry is a bit more of a juggle – I either use the on-site laundry or drop a bag to my sister when I see her. 'Drying clothes was a bit annoying, so I bought a clothes line for outside. 'I'm also looking to get an outdoor washing machine too.' Despite a few minor headaches, Katrina says that she can't imagine herself going back to bricks and mortar. 'Never say never, but I doubt I'd ever go back to renting,' she says. 'Even if I don't live in a caravan forever, I think I'll always want to live a little differently. Maybe a lodge or even something off-grid that I build myself 'I've gained other luxuries – peaceful surroundings, a slower pace of life, and access to lovely leisure facilities. It's been a trade-up, not a sacrifice.' 8 She now counts her 'peaceful surroundings' as one of her luxuries Credit: Jam Press 8 Katrina says the only downside is the lack of washing machine Credit: Jam Press
The Sun
a day ago
- Lifestyle
- The Sun
I traded in my flat for a £26k caravan, everyone tells me I made a huge mistake but I'm laughing all the way to the bank
SINKING back into her plush sofa, Katrina flicks on her electric fire while she admires the gorgeous interiors of her dream home. With her chic open plan living space complete with a stylish kitchen and coordinating sitting room you would be forgiven for thinking Katrina lives in a posh London flat. 8 8 8 But the reality is that Katrina's perfect pad is a static caravan. Katrina, 31, ditched the rental market after years of dealing with poor living conditions and financial stress and says she has never been happier. The business owner, who lives in the south of England, instead chose to invest £26,000 in a 2021 caravan – a move she calls the most freeing decision of her life. But not everyone agrees and Katrina regularly has to deal with people calling her decision a 'waste of money' on TikTok. 'Getting a mortgage just wasn't on the cards,' Katrina says. 'I could have rented, but in my area, a basic one or two-bedroom flat is around £1,000 a month. 'With bills, you're looking at closer to £1,700. I didn't want to live just to pay bills. 'I value quality of life, and the caravan offered me a more affordable, freeing alternative. 'Honestly, I didn't have many other options, and this one made the most sense.' After viewing a series of 'cold, mouldy and badly maintained' flats, Katrina was inspired by a friend living in a caravan park. Watch the video to see inside the family-of-seven's caravan home One visit later, and she knew she'd found her new home. She moved in March 2025 – and hasn't looked back since. Katrina says she's making massive savings compared to before – spending £528 a month on ground rent, Wi-Fi, gas and electric. 'I know I made the right decision for me,' she says. 'I'd viewed a few flats that were, quite frankly, depressing. Cold, mouldy, and badly maintained. 'Then I visited a friend who lives on the park I'm now in, and I'd always loved where she was. It just clicked. 'I reached out to the park owner to see what was available, and that's when I found my caravan. 'Everyone around me has been so supportive. 'Most people actually think it's a brilliant idea and have even considered doing something similar.' 8 8 8 However, Katrina says she's faced some snide comments about her choice on her TikTok page, Katrinas Caravan. She said: 'On TikTok there's been some negative comments, but it doesn't phase me. 'Unless you've walked in someone else's shoes, you can't always understand their choices, and that's okay. 'People who are quick to judge often have their own stuff to work through. I'm happy for them to form opinions.' Living alone in the caravan, Katrina says she finally feels like she can breathe – both emotionally and financially. Having disposable income is the best part. I hadn't experienced that in years Katrina She's even found an unexpected community. She said: 'Having disposable income is the best part. I hadn't experienced that in years. 'I even managed to take a few days off work and just enjoy myself – something that used to feel impossible under financial pressure. 'My 90-year-old neighbour came round every day to check on me when I sprained my knee. 'That sort of kindness and connection wasn't something I ever had in previous places I lived.' Katrina says that hers is far from a stereotypical caravan. She explains: 'Once you're inside, you'd never guess it was a caravan. I'm decorating room by room, adding my own touches. 'I live quite minimally, and the caravan has brilliant storage. How much does it cost to live in a caravan? LIVING in a caravan can be an economical and flexible lifestyle choice in the UK. Here's a breakdown of potential costs: Initial Costs Caravan Purchase: £8,000 - £40,000 (depending on size, age, and condition) Caravan Insurance: £200 - £800 per year Ongoing Monthly Costs Pitch Fees: £150 - £600 (varies by location and facilities) Utilities (Electricity, Gas, Water): £40 - £120 Maintenance and Repairs: £20 - £80 Internet and TV: £20 - £50 Gas for Heating/Cooking: £15 - £40 Other Potential Costs Waste Disposal Fees: £8 - £25 Transport Costs (if moving locations): Variable, depending on distance Optional Add-ons (Awning, Solar Panels, etc.): £400 - £1,600 (one-time) Sample Monthly Budget Pitch Fees: £400 Utilities: £80 Maintenance and Repairs: £40 Internet and TV: £40 Gas for Heating/Cooking: £25 Total: £585 Annual Estimated Cost Total Monthly Costs: £585 x 12 = £7,020 Insurance: £500 Maintenance and Repairs: £480 Total Annual Cost: £8,000 Tips to Save Off-Peak Pitch Fees: Look for lower rates during off-peak seasons. DIY Maintenance: Handle minor repairs yourself. Energy Efficiency: Invest in solar panels to reduce utility costs. While initial setup costs can be significant, ongoing expenses for living in a caravan can be relatively low, making it a viable option for those seeking an affordable and mobile lifestyle in the UK. 'Everything has its place. I'm not tripping over anything, and it actually feels spacious and calm. 'Everyone seems to want to come to mine now because they love it so much. They call it a cosy sanctuary.' However, there are some downsides, like not having a washing machine or anywhere to dry clothes. Katrina adds: 'Things like cooking are no different than when I was in a flat, except I might have to be a bit smarter with space. 'I've got a lovely walk-in shower in my bathroom, so no complaints there. I've gained other luxuries – peaceful surroundings, a slower pace of life, and access to lovely leisure facilities. Katrina 'Laundry is a bit more of a juggle – I either use the on-site laundry or drop a bag to my sister when I see her. 'Drying clothes was a bit annoying, so I bought a clothes line for outside. 'I'm also looking to get an outdoor washing machine too.' Despite a few minor headaches, Katrina says that she can't imagine herself going back to bricks and mortar. 'Never say never, but I doubt I'd ever go back to renting,' she says. 'Even if I don't live in a caravan forever, I think I'll always want to live a little differently. Maybe a lodge or even something off-grid that I build myself 'I've gained other luxuries – peaceful surroundings, a slower pace of life, and access to lovely leisure facilities. It's been a trade-up, not a sacrifice.' 8 8
