Simpler Living Blog

COOKING, GARDENING, HEALTHY LIVING, LAUNDRY/HAND WASHING, SUSTAINABLE LIVING

6 Small Ways to Simplify - and Enjoy It

Make fresh, nutritious pickles, sauerkraut and more right on your countertop – no heavy crocks, cultures or cooking required.

These days, who isn't looking for a little more "simple" in their life? I know I am. But sometimes knowing where to start is daunting. I'm not ready to plow up my half-acre yard for a garden, put up a hundred quarts of canned food, or chuck my electric washing machine to the curb. Yet.

But there are lots of small steps I can take on the "road to simplicity" and still know I've done something with my own two hands (that doesn't include typing or swiping on my phone). Here are 6 ways to start:

Shake your way to farm-fresh butter in just a few minutes.

1. Make some fresh butter

You don't have to churn a larger batch; just fill this hand-sized shaker with fresh cream, shake for a few minutes and rinse with cool water. Voila - farm-fresh butter for your morning toast or evening meal. Easy, and just enough. (Note: Children LOVE this thing.)

2. Grow something delicious.

Grow oregano, parsley, basil and cilantro - all year round! - right on your windowsill in these pretty tinted mason jars. They wick up just enough water so you'll never oversoak them. It couldn't be easier.

3. Make sauerkraut.

You read that right. You - yes, YOU - can make a small batch of delicious, healthy sauerkraut, pickles, kimchi right on your countertop, with no cooking required! These nifty little picklers fit on the tops of canning jars and ferment foods in 4-10 days. Comes with recipes and even a dvd.

Grow fresh herbs on any windowsill - all year round!

4. Give your dryer a break

Save some energy and dry your clothes the simpler way. Indoor racks are wonderful any time of year - set close to a heater vent for faster drying. Or install a space-saving rack where it's most convenient. Many sizes and styles are available - choose the one that suits your living space best!

5. Bring a little "people power" to your kitchen

Hand-cranked kitchen tools are quieter and often work better than their electric counterparts because you control more of the process. Somehow, they're just more satisfying to use, too. And of course, they save energy - always a good thing.

6. Turn "garbage" into something wonderful.

Store food scraps on your counter top or under your sink in an odor-free container. Transfer them to an outdoor pile and watch your egg shells, coffee grounds and fruit and veggie peels, transform into all-natural fertilizer that plants love.

For lots more small ways to simplify, visit lehmans.pro.