Gorgeous Tiny House, Peaceful Hills, Open Skies

Discover the simple beauty and tranquility of Living Tiny while surrounded by soft, green hills. Sip a cup of coffee while gazing at greenery from the living room or back deck. Lounge in a hammock, meditate or write, explore the 80-acre property, or relax on the back deck by the outdoor fire pit. Enjoy a breath-taking view of the stars from the outdoor hot tub. Come in after enjoying nature and relax with a glass of wine in an elegant, modern tiny house. A perfect, peaceful get-away.

About our "Big Gray" tiny house:

The entire footprint of this home is 12x32 (not including decks)--but for a tiny house, it actually is quite spacious! Huge windows w/ beautiful views of the Nebraska countryside, fully equipped kitchen with stainless steel appliances, a, "In-(tiny)-House" Coffee Bar (w/ 4 different types of coffee makers, and several bean roasts to choose from), In-ceiling speakers, Wifi, a Smart Projector w/ huge 67" screen (main floor) & a lofted 32" Smart TV (both equipped w/ Netflix/Amazon Prime/Disney Plus), large back deck, front deck, 3'x5' shower, washer/dryer, indoor fireplace (turned off during summer months), outdoor propane fire pit, oak floors, reclaimed barnwood accents throughout. All on a spacious property of rolling hills and spectacular views.

My tiny house has a wide-open feel first because of the landscape (rolling hills and NE plains), and next because of all the windows that let that nature in. I designed and built this house myself, and wanted two things in order to give it an open, bright ambiance: High ceilings and big windows. I wanted to look at nature all the time, and tried to "bring the outside in". It turned out exactly how I wanted! This house is one of those "Not-so-tiny" tinies. Once inside, it feels bigger than you'd think, but it's still technically only 342 sq feet on the bottom level. Since I was custom building it for myself, I had to include a few luxuries and wish-items! My favorite features are: the heated floor throughout the bathroom and bedroom, the fire place, the big back deck/carport, in-ceiling speakers throughout the house, the electric fireplace by the master bed, the hardwood oak living room/kitchen floor, the reflective ceiling tiles (create an illusion of space and 'bigness'), the look of the storage stairs, the off-grid water system, the barn wood that I incorporated throughout the house, and the huge picture window in the living room. My desire for everyone who stays in my home is first, that you feel valued and valuable, and second, that you feel and enjoy the peace that I feel in this space.

Please be aware that like most tiny housers, "Big Gray" has a composting toilet—it’s environmentally friendly, saves a ton of water, and I love it! (I also built it!). But please be conscious of this fact before you book, and know to expect it. I know this type of thing isn’t for everyone, though most people seem to adapt just fine. If you are unsure about it, just ask!

The entire tiny house is yours! Food and kitchenware provided: You have access to all kitchenware, myriad spices, anything in the pantry, cupboards or fridge, coffee/coffee maker, etc. Some breakfast foods are provided in the fridge and pantry--various flavors of bagels and cream cheese, breakfast sausage, bacon, oatmeal, pancake mix, and coffee. There are also various condiments in the fridge. 

Coffee Bar:

We also have an "In-(Tiny)-House" Coffee Shop, equipped with an espresso-maker, french press, drip coffee, and pour-over--in case you would like to make a fancy coffee in the morning! Milk (for lattes) is available in the fridge.

Things to note:

Cleaning:

-A deep-cleaning of the entire tiny house is done between each and every guest stay. That means:

-Fresh, clean linens are always used

-The furniture (chairs/couch/lounging area) is sanitized and cleaned

-All touched surfaces throughout the house are cleaned (every surface but the walls)

Others on the property:

-There may or may not be other people renting out the tiny houses 100 feet North and 150 feet South of the house.

-During the summer months there may be some activity going on! Generally not too loud, but there may be people about, tending to the garden, etc.

-Audrey and her husband John have three small boys. In the winter months you will not see them (unless requested!) and in the summer they will mostly be playing by their house on another part of the property where you may see them from time to time, especially if John is working in the gardens. They like to "help" him.

Blue Apron:

-If you are staying for at least three days, I do have a subscription to a fresh meal delivery service called Blue Apron so you can cook your own dinner without needing to shop or bring groceries beforehand. Blue Apron offers two meals for two or four people. If you book a few weeks in advance and would like to try this option, contact me for pricing (typically $70-85) and details.

Winter ONLY:

During the winter months in order to avoid freezing water lines, there is a chance the tiny house may use its off-grid water system, which includes a water container inside the couch and a small water pump to get the water to all the house water pipes. The pump is not excessively noisy, but does make some noise, and it comes on whenever you turn on a faucet; so just be aware of that before you book. It wasn't used or needed these last few years, but just know that there's a chance it could be needed.

The Property:

Our property is so peaceful! Away from the city, away from the stress. You can see the stars at night and listen to the birds chirp in the morning. As a guest here, you'll have access to the entire property: 80 acres! Feel free to go exploring--except in the space with the cows. Don't go there. But overall, just let loose and be free! Hike the big hill by my house; the view is truly unparalleled. Or you may just prefer to sit on the back deck and take in the lovely views from there, or walk the trail circling two acres of the property. I also have two very friendly cats who would love a little pet if you have a second. There is a lot of farm land and hills surrounding us, and some beautiful gardens next to the tiny house. Walking the trails through the trees is a must! It is beautiful. Such a tranquil, remote setting!

On-site Activities:

Lawn games: I have a selection of lawn games for summer fun: Corn hole, Bocce ball, Giant Jenga, a Soccer and Football, Big Dice (for Yard Yahtzee and 19 other dice games), Croquet, and Kube (this one is super fun!).

Bonfires: The fire-pit across from my house is for your exclusive use and enjoyment! Chairs, side tables, and wine glass holders are provided.

Fire pit on the Deck: Don't want to get your clothes all smokey? Relax out on the large back deck with a glass of wine in front of the (propane fueled) fire pit! Lay in the hammock and star-gaze, and just enjoy the sounds of nature around you.

Hot Tub: Enjoy an incredible sunset from the bliss of a steaming hot tub! If it's a clear night, wait until the stars emerge, and marvel at the most stunning display of stars you will ever see! There are bound to be a few shooting stars in the mix too, so watch for those.

Hiking: Hike along the trail circling the property, or go off the trails and hike the hills on your own!

Grill: Make a juicy steak and crisp veggies on the grill! a large grill is provided for your use!

Picnics: Use the outdoor picnic table/benches, or grab a blanket and find one of countless spots on the ground! Picnicking whilst taking in the panoramic views on the top of the huge hill would be a windy, yet memorable highlight!

Bird and animal-watching: We have many varieties of birds and animals on the property, specifically in the grove on the North side of the house. Also, on the South side of the house, the 21 acres there is being newly converted into a bird and wildlife sanctuary via the C.R.P. program! Currently, many varieties of native wildflowers and trees are being planted, so we will see which birds and animals come to visit this habitat!

Off-roading: Bring your ATV for the property and low-maintenance roads (there are plenty!).

Nature-gazing in comfort: Enjoy the sweeping views of hills and nature from inside the house, without fighting mosquitoes or sweltering or frigid weather! Take in the beauty, minus the elements that can make it uncomfortable. This was a main goal of mine when designing this house--so enjoy!

Snow activities: Bring your snowmobile or snowshoes during the winter; the place is perfect for those types of activities!

For kids:

Slip-n-slide: If kids are coming, I like to set up a long, home-made slip-n-slide down a hill. My kiddo guests love it!

Nature walks: Not only are these popular with kids, they are educational! Click here for a good one!

Snow fun: Snow angels, snow forts, and snow men are kid-pleasers in the winter! Plenty of snow and space to accommodate!

The Community and our Shared Space:

This tiny house is on a vast 80-acre property! My friends John and Audrey live on the property about 400 feet north in a farmhouse on the other side of the grove of trees, and I live on the property in the neighboring teeny tiny house! We are building a tiny house community! We all love Jesus, and have a passion for seeing Him heal and restore people. Basically, we are a few friends living in community together outside of Ponca, NE. Specifically, this Tiny House is about 150 feet east of another tiny house (I call it my "Teeny Tiny Cabin") which is also rented out. It is also about 100 feet south of another cabin (which is rented out by my friends). Strategically-placed sections of privacy fence effectively screen the other tiny houses from view. The land owners live in the original farmhouse on the property (about 400 feet north of the Tiny House, through the tree grove). If I am not on the property, my co-host Audrey is there most of the time and can answer any questions you have. John and Audrey are amazing people, and I hope you are as blessed by them as I have been!

During the late Fall and Winter months, this will be a peaceful oasis; there won't be people working outside much--too cold! During the temperate months of the year, this is a working farm, so expect us to be investing in and improving the land and property during the day; we may be working on the garden or food forest or the pond. 

The Surrounding Area/Off-site Activities:

The town of Ponca is an 8-minute drive East of my house, and there you will find a grocery store, a few pizza places, a gym, post-office, pharmacy, doctor's office, etc. If you want a larger town, South Sioux City, NE and Sioux City, IA are a 30-minute drive East. Population of about 120,000--so lots of shopping, eating places, etc, in that area. Vermilion is another medium-sized town that is about 20 minutes West of us. I have specifics and details about different places nearby which you will find in the Tiny House Manual when you arrive at the tiny house, and also in this guidebook I've created.

Guidebook: This is a book of recommendations for a plethora of restaurants, activities and attractions in the surrounding areas I've put together for your use! Feel free to check it out and plan accordingly!

Ponca State Park: Ponca State Park is only a 10-minute drive away, and I highly recommend visiting! It has some fantastic hiking the trails! Beautiful, regardless of the time of year! I've also seen people biking along the roads in the park.

Off-roading: We are far out into the countryside, so you're welcome to bring your ATV's and ride around! Dirt-bikes or mountain bikes are also fine here.

Canoe/fishing: I have a canoe you can take to the nearby lake (it's on a small trailer, if you have a hitch and 1 3/4 ball to pull it). 1.5 miles from my tiny house is Powder Creek Lake--which is great for fishing or kayaking/canoeing. 

Ice-fishing: I've never had someone do it, but it's worth a try! Set up your station on Powder Creek Lake!

Transportation to the property:

During seasons when it is very wet, it is a good idea to have a 4-wheel drive vehicle to traverse the 4 miles of gravel road leading to my house. The road tends to become quite muddy and can be tricky to drive in, so 4-wheel drive is best if there is a massive amount of snow melting, or after days of heavy rains. There is an alternate route that's easier to drive in this case--so I'll be in communication about potential inclement weather details prior to your stay. Additionally, snow is usually cleared out by the city fairly quickly after snow falls, but occasionally they have waited a day or so to do so. This can make it difficult to drive in the meantime in a vehicle without medium to high ground clearance. Contact me with any concerns. 

**There is another lone Tiny House about 1/4 mile north of Big Gray that is under construction. It is gray, white, cedar, and has blue doors. Do not turn there; that tiny house a new project, and not ready for visitors. If you keep going for another 1/4 mile, you'll see Big Gray Tiny House, where you'll stay! If there's any confusion, please call :)

Host/Guest interactions:

I tend to give my guests space and time to themselves, since that precious time is usually why they come and what they need. However, if a guest requests to meet up and chat a bit, I love that! It gives me a chance to meet amazing people, and it’s just so fun to connect. It also gives me a chance to answer any questions guests might have about their stay. If a guest prefers no contact, however, I honor that as well--in that case, I will still be available via message. Either way, I am happy to have you!