Day 17 - Why and When Did You Start Blogging?

31 Day Blog Challenge - March

 

The Art Piece we did at D3 Artworks Inc. I'm the short one on the left.

When and Why Did I Start a Blog?

I started reading blogs more than two years ago on a regular basis. Blogs were more appealing to me because you could find all these interesting ideas, crafts, tips and recipes, but it was because of the actual blogger that I wanted to stick around and read more. 

The summer of 2012 while working at D3 Artworks Inc. I really got back into being creative and wanting to write more. One of my co-workers had a blog and that's when I decided that I wanted one too. Working at D3 also gave me the self confidence I needed to be able to put myself out there, because before I was too scared to actually write a blog.

I'll admit, I had a couple of blogs before this one but none of them were really me and I couldn't commit to writing on them regularly. Around the time I opened my vintage Etsy shop in October, I decided I should have a blog just for my shop. That blog is still around, my mom writes on it more than I do, but it's strictly for the shop. 

Then in November I finally realized what I was passionate about. I may not have one singular hobby or interest that takes up a lot of my time, but I do have a little someone who does; Sidney. 

Being a young parent, or a parent in general, is what motivates me. In the end, all of my decisions are based on what would be best for Sidney. Whether that decision is to go to school, start waking up earlier, setting a good example by eating healthier, going green or moving towards a more minimalist lifestyle.

I obviously don't have the best advice to give when it comes to life. I can probably tell you more on what not to do than what to do, but I can share my experience. I don't know what sharing my experience has to offer anyone, but I'm having fun doing it.

And that is why and when I started blogging.

Why and when did you start blogging?

Check out my previous challenges:

Day 1 - Portrait
Day 2 - Favourite Quote
Day 3 - What Makes Me Happy
Day 4 - Best Childhood Memory
Day 5 - Favourite Movies I Never Get Sick Of
Day 6 - Random Acts of Kindness
Day 7 - My Dream Job
Day 8 - Pet Peeves
Day 9 - What's on Your Life List?
Day 10 - Daily Routine
Day 11 - The Last Books I've Read
Day 12 - Something I Miss
Day 13 - Regret
Day 14 - Music
Day 15 - I am Awesome! 
Day 16 - My Biggest Accomplishment 

Thanks, 

Make Your Own Re-usable Produce Bags

Doing My Part

 

Going green is a process that takes time. It isn't going to happen overnight, but the little things I incorporate into my life will eventually add up. 

I decided to make my own re-usable produce bags. 

Obviously, we've been using re-usable grocery bags (from the grocery store) for a few years now, but the amount of plastic produce bags that get thrown out weekly is adding up. Especially since we've been making an effort to eat more fruits and vegetables. 

In all honesty, I was a little self conscious using my produce bags for the first time. They're not the greatest looking; my sewing skills are definitely at a beginner level, but it's not like anyone cares. 

And it was much cheaper to make them than to buy them. I used an old sheer curtain that's just been laying around, so I guess it didn't cost me anything. Originally the curtain was bought at the thrift store for $4 a few years ago. With that one curtain I was able to make 6 large bags, and 2 small bags (perfect for nuts or seeds).

I'm not a patient person, and sewing usually takes patience. All I did was quickly mark my fabric where I needed to cut it, then I cut it (not very even either) and stitched the sides with my sewing machine. And because I couldn't figure out to stitch up the sides properly, I put fabric glue along the edges to keep them from fraying. 

I even used cute, vintage ribbon that's a happy yellow/gold colour. Woo hoo!

Do you use re-usable bags at the grocery store? Did you make them, or buy them?

Thanks, 

Why Water Is Important and How I'm Making Sure to Get Enough

I’m in the process of making a lot of changes, so in order not to overwhelm myself I’ve decided to take small steps when it comes to my poor eating habits. After all, I want this to be a life lasting change.

I’m not going to weigh myself, measure myself or stress out over losing weight. This isn’t about losing weight (although I wouldn’t mind).

I’m simply going to start taking better care of myself. Making sure to eat food that is good for me, that energizes me and nourishes me. I know I need to cut back on eating junk food, to stop eating out and to start moving more.

In order to keep strong and motivated I have to remind myself that the beauty of being human is that we can change the way we live at any time. We just need to stop procrastinating and do it.

Drink More Water

The first step to becoming healthier is probably the most important one, and the easiest; drink more water.

Of course I know how important water is for my health. Doesn’t every body? But like a lot of other people I know for a fact that I don’t drink enough. And as part of my whole fixing my life thing I figured health is a big part of that.

We all know water is vital to our health, but sometimes it helps to stop for a minute and remind ourselves why.

Why Water is Awesome

• It carries nutrients throughout the body, and flushes out toxins.
• It helps with digestion and keeps you “regular.”
• By drinking more water you’re guaranteed to cut back on unhealthy drinks like pop, energy drinks, coffee, alcohol and juice.
• You save money by drinking more water instead of other drinks.
• It has no calories and acts as a food suppressant by making you feel fuller.
• It increases your energy, makes you more alert and helps you focus easier by hydrating your brain.
• It’s the best anti-aging solution because it helps your skin stay soft and supple, helps clear up acne and gives you a healthy glow.
• It helps get rid of headaches, again with the hydrating the brain! 
• It lubricates your joints and helps keep muscles more elastic decreasing the risk of cramps and sprains.

Tips For Getting Enough Water 

I don’t know about you, but I know that I often don’t drink water because it’s not easily available like a can of coke or juice box. Especially when the dishes are dirty, and you’re too lazy to wash a glass out (does this happen to anyone else? Or am I just a slob?). Well, like with anything else, drinking water is a habit that can be formed. You just need to know what will work for your. 

• Some people prefer buying bottled water because then it’s easily accessible. But I know that bottled water isn’t so great for the environment and I like to try to do my small parts. That’s why I bought a water bottle from the dollar store. I keep it close by and I know that if I drink a full bottle two times throughout the day then I have managed to get enough water.
• Or there are times when I want something with a little flavour. Water can be pretty bland at times. Making your own flavoured water is easy, yummy and can be fun, too. You can add lemon, lime, cucumbers, berries, mint leaves, green tea bag, watermelon or anything else that sounds good to you. My favourite mixes are green tea with lemon, or cucumber and lime. If you really want to have juice, dilute it with water. 
• When we had a water cooler in the kitchen I noticed I was always drinking water. Since we don’t have one any more we keep a jug in the fridge because cold water is just more refreshing compared to right out of the tap. You can by filters, spring water or whichever you like if that’s your thing. Personally I don’t mind tap water.
• Always have a glass of water with your meals. I used to always have a diet coke with my dinner, even though I know that coke (especially diet coke) is not good for you. Now I make sure to have water. I even put the water jug on the table for easy refills.

Currently I’m not drinking enough water. Well, actually I’ve done pretty good over the weekend, but it’s not a habit yet. These are just some tips that I’ve noticed are working for me so far.

It’s crazy how something like getting enough water can feel like such a big ordeal. You’d think it would just be second nature already. Ah well, better late than never, right?

So, do you feel you get enough water? And what tips do you have for drinking more water?

Thanks,

Delicious Stew Recipe from "Vegan Lunch Box"

Healthy Simple Recipe For Vegan Stew

One of my favourite vegan fall dishes is from the awesome book Vegan Lunch Boxes: Around the World by Jennifer McCann. I call it butternut squash stew, and changed a few of the ingredients around to my liking, but this is what Jennifer McCann calls it and her recipe:

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"Moroccan Tangine

Ingredients:

• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ginger
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
• 1/8 teaspoon cayenne
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, peeled, halved, and cut into half-rings
• 1/2 medium yellow, orange and red bell pepper, seeded and diced
• 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 1 medium butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cut into 1-inch cubes (about 6 to 7 cups)
• 1 (15 ounce) can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
• 2 medium zucchini, cut in half lengthwise, then cut into 1/2-inch slices
• 1/2 golden or regular raisins
• Salt, to taste
• Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Directions:

1. Measure out all the spices into one small dish and set aside.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are soft and translucent, about 7 minutes (adjust the heat as needed to keep them from browning). Add the bell peppers and all the spices and cook, stirring, for another minute.
3. Add the diced tomatoes with all their juices, the butternut squash and 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and summer, covered, for 20 minutes or until squash is almost tender.
4. Add the chickpeas, zucchini, and raisins and continue to simmer, covered, for another 10 minutes, or until squash is tender. Season with salt. Garnish each serving with parsley just before serving." - Taken from pages 97 - 98 from Vegan Lunch Box Around the World by Jennifer McCann.

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Now, I love this recipe just as it is! However, one day I decided to play around and added diced potatoes and carrots, putting them in when the squash goes in. I also took out the peppers because I like peppers fresh, not cooked, but that's just my preference.

In the book, McCann suggests serving it over couscous or quinoa. I also enjoy it over basmati rice.

I've served this particular meal to plenty of my friends and family and so far only my mom didn't like it, but she's pretty picky when it comes to food.

So, there it is! My favourite fall dish. And surprisingly easy to make! It seems like it would be a lot of work because of the lengthy ingredient list, but it's mostly spices, a few cans and then only a few vegetables that need to be prepared. Best part is, this makes a huge amount and can be freezed for a future meal!

Thanks, 

You can find Jennifer McCann's blog Vegan Lunch Box HERE!!

Five Things Freegan Can Teach Us

 

What is a Freegan?

If you know what the word "freegan" means I'm sure you have an opinion on it. If you haven't heard about it let me explain. The word freegan comes from the two words free and vegan. Someone who considers themselves a freegan is typically a vegan (but not always), who refuses to purchase most of their things, opting for taking things out of the trash or receiving it for free.

Now I'm sure you're thinking "take it out of the trash?" Yes, freegans typically dig through trash cans, dumpster dive and rummage through garbage to find food, clothing, toys, housewares, books, furniture and basically everything else a person needs and wants. 

Why do they do this? 

Surprisingly, not for the reason a lot of people think. Whereas a lot of freegans are by no means rich, that's not the reason they prefer reusing other people's "garbage". Freegans are also usually not rich by choice, believing they shouldn't have to work most of their lives for material possessions instead of personal freedom. Freegans believe that mass production of products and food has been lead by greed, causing environmental harm, abuse of humans and other animals. Sweat shops, animal testing, pollution, deforestation - for what? Corporate greed. 

By reusing things that are still useful we can hopefully have a positive impact on our world.

Why You May Not Want To:

For a lot of people, digging around in other people's garbage is something they would never do for many reasons such as:

• embarrassment, 
• fear of germs, 
• potential health risks 
• and also, not surprisingly, laziness 
• and preference of owning new things. 

Don't worry, if you were thinking the same thing for yourself you're not alone. 

There are a lot of things we can learn from a freegan lifestyle, though.

1. Don't Waste Food:

I don't blame you for being skeptical about eating food that's been thrown out, but the truth is a lot of people, restaurants and stores throw out food that is still good instead of donating it to the less fortunate or consuming it themselves. What can you do about it? Not waste food yourself. Of course, animal products such as meat, dairy and eggs are never something you should risk eating after the expiration date (probably why most freegans are vegans!), but fruits and vegetables are some of the most wasted foods! 

Limp celery, lettuce, peppers or other vegetables? Try cutting them up and placing them in a bowl of water in the fridge. By the next day they'll be perfectly firm again and ready to eat. 

Bruised apples, bananas, pears or other fruit? Google recipes online to find out how to make your own pies, breads and muffins, jams or how to can food. Recently I made grapefruit jam with some old grapefruits that were almost destined for the compost, but who knew you could make jam with them? 

A lot of food can also be frozen, and if all is lost and there is no way you would want to eat it, compost it.

2. Don't Throw Away Clothes:

A lot of people will throw away clothing once it's ripped, stained or no longer wanted. Obviously, if it's still in good condition donating it is the best option, but if it's stained or ripped there are other things you can do with it. 

Small tears in seams or in unnoticeable places can be sewn, or patched. If you know you'll never wear it again because the stain or rip is too noticeable you can tear them up for rags or make new things out of it (i.e. doll clothes, shopping bags). If you're not crafty, there are plenty of people who are who would love to use up your old scraps! 

3. Electronics:

There are now a lot of places that accept old electronics that no longer work, so looking these up is a great idea. If it does still work, no matter how old it is thrift stores will always take them and believe it or not there are people out there who would love that old radio from the 1980's that you hate. Antique electronics are highly valuable, so there's an option as well.

Some people are great at fixing things up, or need the parts, too.

4. Furniture:

Again, donate! If you don't think it's worth donating, try giving it away. Some people want an old couch for their garage, cottage or rec room. Or maybe someone is looking for something vintage that they can fix up. A lot of people are into that sort of thing. Never just assume that your old furniture is unwanted by everyone just because it's unwanted by you. Or if it's just the fabric you can get it reupholstered. 

5. Everything Else:

Books, CDs, movies, picture frames, crafts supplies, pet supplies, jewelry, housewares, everything can either be donated, sold or given away. There are people who love old items: to collect, to make things with, to fix up and sell. You could always fix them up and sell them, too.

Sites like Kijiji, Ebay and Craigslist are perfect places to sell things you no longer want. Freecycle.org  is a site where people give things away, or ask for things for free. Yard sales are always an option and places like thrift stores and charities are always looking for donations. So, please, even if we can't fathom living a freegan lifestyle, there's a lot we can learn from it.

Thanks,

Anxiety And Lightening The Load

I've started blogging at a time in my life where I just feel like everything I want, all of my goals, are not yet accomplished. I'm not already successful. I haven't lost a large amount of weight already, and become a much healthier, fitter person. I haven't graduated college and landed my dream job. I'm not married with a beautiful house. I don't have any great tips and tricks to share with the world on how to be the best person you can be.

I'm just a 22 year old woman, living a simple life full of hopes and dreams and I am no where near successful. I have a 5 year old daughter. We live at my parents' house. I haven't even been able to find a part-time job making minimum wage yet. And even though I have a very clear picture in my head of what I want in life I am no where there. I was once pretty close to that goal, but in the past year I've fallen, and I've fallen far. 

I'm at a point in my life where I'm only a few more steps to rock bottom, but I don't mind because I just keep looking up and trying to be grateful for all the things I have. 

Yes, I struggle every day with different choices. I question myself constantly on how I got to this point and how do I get back up? What's my next move? 

And while I push all of these goals on myself, my shoulders get heavier and heavier. I think it might be time to lighten the load.

Because my anxiety is through the roof. My chest hurts every day. I get migraines on a daily basis, popping Advil like Tictacs. I chew on my bottom lip, bite my nails and worry and worry and worry. My energy is completely drained, and everything seems like too much work. 

Well, like I said, it's time to lighten the load. Yes, I have a lot of goals, but do all of them need to be accomplished at once? No, so I should try not to worry about it so much. I can tell myself this all I want, but will I ever learn? Will I ever take my own advice? Doubtfully. 

However, thanks to the internet there are so many resources to help me. Blogs, articles, forums. One of my favourite blogs to read right now is Zen Habits written by Leo Babauta. Leo Babauta talks about motivation, goals, health and fitness, family, simplicity, frugality, inspiration and living in the moment. It's a really great blog, and I highly recommend it.

Thanks,

Fitness Fridays, And Photography

Moving Train - Cole's Photography

Okay, can I just come up with a reasonable excuse as to why I didn't do so well this week? 

I had the flu, and didn't feel completely better until Wednesday. It really put a damper on my plans.

However, after that whole ordeal I did start eating breakfasts in the morning (so it’s only been three days…) and I have been going for walks.

I actually switched it up. 

Instead of extending my walk home from dropping Sidney off at school I decided to kill two birds with one stone and go for walks and work on my photography! On Wednesday I walked through Riverside Park, and yesterday I walked around my neighbourhood, taking pictures of anything that looked interesting enough. My boyfriend Nick was telling me about this abandoned nursery (like a flower  nursery?) and I figured that would be another great place to take pictures. So if I have the time today I want to go there and walk around. Otherwise, I’ll have to settle for a boring walk around the neighbourhood again and hit up the nursery another day.

It takes me a lot of energy to motivate myself. Sometimes when I don’t want to do something, like go for a walk, I have to make it more fun and interesting. I found that bringing my camera along does just that and therefore inspires me to want to go out! 

Some people like going with a friend, 

walking a certain trail or 

listening to their iPod. 

Not me. 

I like solitude, 

silence,

and fresh scenery. 

So, I’m sure I will continue this routine into the next week. 

As for my breakfasts… Well, on Wednesday I had a Muffet with milk and orange juice. Yesterday I had a bagel with cream cheese and I know that’s not the healthiest option but I really don’t care for most breakfast foods. Today I had a Bolthouse smoothie, which is just a fruit smoothie that comes already made from the grocery store. I’ll do better next week, for real. 

Now, I don’t feel comfortable enough in my two new routines to add another. Like I said, I was sick for half the week so I am going to stick with this for another week and hopefully next Friday I will tackle the more difficult tasks. Eeks!

Thanks,