The first step was finding a suitable plot of land, the criteria being location, location, and location. I wanted great views, rural ambience, quick freeway access, and walking distance to UCSD and the beach.

Happily a solution quickly arose in the form of Rose Canyon, a rustic urban canyon which parallels Gilman Drive between I-5 and the UCSD campus. The canyon not only fulfilled all my critera — it possessed the coveted 92037 ZIP code, and its zoning as open space ensured that my views would be preserved in perpetuity.

Invoking the federal Homestead Act, I claimed 10 acres of canyonland as my own, and — with minimal investment and much sweat equity — constructed the modest micro-home seen in the photos.

I've lived here for two months now, and am happy to report that the joy of homeownership is everything I've ever dreamed of. My kitchen window opens to a lush hillside of wild mustard and other native flora. The spring rains have my bean-field looking healthy, with the promise of a tidy crop. Hawks fly over daily, and the shrubbery along Gilman Drive keeps my residence cozy and semi-private from the commuter traffic.

Life is good — I'm grateful.

Photos Maura Vazakas