In the way of simplifying my life, and the fact that I doubt very much my back will take a real big planting time, I will be trying to do less container planting of flowers. Harvey, has really cut down on the garden, and is trying to get me to cut back on flowers as well.
I really like having lots of colour in the yard, but he is right. So this year I am going to concentrate on getting more perennials into the circular bed, on herbs and medicinal plants, and perhaps do a few containers of things like carrots, cherry tomatoes, and lettuce.
Also I am going to refuse to purchase craft items or fabric until I use up what I already have in stock. There are times I feel like I have a yarn and fabric store in my sewing/craft room and will never be able to use everything up. I am doing better though so that is a plus. So many projects to get done, and there never seems to be enough time to do them and enjoy the outside. I was thinking of starting to spin using a drop spindle, but man I have enough hobbies, so adding one more would be detrimental to my mental health. I will stick to quilting (simple patterns), sewing, knitting, embroidery, counted cross stitch, using my Cricut, and weaving.
I noticed the dandelions are poking their heads out so it is time to collect the flowers to make salve this year. I need to get some shea butter ordered. Probably more containers as well.
Hmmm, doesn't really sound like simplifying does it?
Everybody have a wonderful evening.
God bless.
Today we bought the potting soil for the balcony planters and while we were at it, we picked up basil, parsley and chive plants. It's too early to plant but at least we can keep them watered much better than they do at the store. We should have been able to use the same soil from last year but we got a different kind and it was awful. Nothing wanted to grow in it so we're starting fresh.
ReplyDeleteSimplifying tends to connote doing simple things. But, i find that doing simple things involves more steps because i’ve cut out the middle man which actually makes more work. Your salve, as an example. You need to pick the flowers, buy the shea butter, buy the containers, set aside the time, make the salve and wait for it to cool before use. Of course, there are more steps depending on your recipe and what other ingredients you have or not. Some things i’ve decided are not worth the time involved. On the whole though, i believe my life is pretty simple, too. Plus, it’s kind of fun to do so many things on your own.
ReplyDeleteI've always thought that "simple living" was not aimed at simplifying any person's life but instead referenced returning to a "simpler" time without technology, purchasing of most everything one uses, etc. That to me always means more work - not bad if that aligns with your goals. I suspect it does in many ways fit you based on what your hobbies are and your enjoyment of making things.
ReplyDeleteYour posts remind me of the lady who blogs at Frugal Measures. She has so many skills and spinning is one of them.
ReplyDeletehttp://frugalmeasures.blogspot.com/
I’m not sure if you read her blog or not.
This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.
ReplyDeleteI did the same in my flower garden last year and it's great to see so many plants returning and stronger. My stash is not huge but I do use what I have where I can.
ReplyDeleteSimplifying isn't necessarily easy! That is for sure. I like having a simpler life, no big frills or extra stuff, but it sure can be work too. Trade off I guess.
ReplyDeleteI know what you meN about trying to use up your fabric and wool. I only occasionally buy fabric these days and only if necessary to finish a project. I have never purchased just for stash building, but was lucky to receive a couple of boxes of mainly children's fabrics when my neighbour moved. So lots for donation quilts.
ReplyDeleteYou certainly have lots of "hobbies", though they are very useful. Using up one's stash is a challenge for certain. I have several containers at my son's and no room for more here.
ReplyDeleteIt sounds like we may be heading into some colder temps next weekend, so I'll likely be leaving the planting to my daughter (not that she likes it), so that will be easier for me.
I feel similarly about the amount of supplies I have in my sewing room. I love thinking of ways to use it, but I might have to donate some of it at some point.
ReplyDelete