interlude
The natural complement to my digital minimalism streak is physical minimalism, and making the most of what I already have. So this quarterly roundup includes some ways I’m trying to be creative and add more DIY energy to my life.
resources
Quinoa pilaf. Groceries are so expensive these days. I can go with the intention of stocking up on basics, use all the sales I can find, and still spend at least $10 more than I expected to see on the till. Maybe I’m just bad at math and haven’t internalized inflation yet, but this makes me think: how can I cut back in a meaningful way? If proteins are $10-15+, what about subbing in quinoa sometimes? Although quinoa was culturally maligned a few years ago, for connotations of hippie pretension, the nutritional benefits are still sound! Gluten-free, has protein and fibre, friendly to my diet, and still eats like a carb.
There are recipes for this online, but I keep it super simple: simply boil one cup of quinoa with 2 cups of chicken stock. Near the end of the 15-minute simmer, I add whatever chopped and/or frozen veggies I have on hand. Maybe I’ll top the dish with a boiled egg or some chili crisp, to mix things up. On these warm days at work when I’m so busy I have to eat at my desk, this still tastes good cold.Making my own cards. Some people (myself included) appreciate a heartfelt, handwritten card just as much as any gift. And speaking of things getting expensive these days (seriously, we’re approaching $10 CAD for any drugstore greeting card brand), it’s a lot cheaper and more personal to print my own.
I’ve bought the paper and envelopes from a few different sources. Preferring to support local where possible, I’d recommend Clubcard to those in Greater Vancouver. They can score the folding line in the cardstock for you, but my dad taught me that using a ruler & the back of a spoon works just as well.Videos by Leah’s Fieldnotes on YouTube.
I happened upon this decluttering video in the “suggested” column, and was immediately hooked. I haven’t been this inspired by a YouTube video in a while, both in terms of style and content: Leah’s clips are beautifully edited, and packed with practical tips.
Another one: this will hopefully help me downsize my suitcase for travels this summer!
What’s your go-to summer lunch recipe? How do you DIY something in your life to save costs or space? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments!
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