simply stephen

foolish mistake, pure fortune and projects to set up off grid

simply stephen — Thu, 17 May 2012 19:37:51 +0000

Moving off grid has brought a few challenges and foolish mistakes.

Nothing serious though. Mostly time and resources will resolve them. It was a tight budget for May, with most of my monthly funds going towards the costs of the actual move, which included vehicle registration, gas expense and basic tools needed off grid.

Now that I have arrived, I’m slowly settling in and getting comfortable.

early off grid projects

There are many projects and upgrades. Ones I am really looking forward to.

My New Screened Sitting Area - May 2012

With the bugs starting to show up, keeping them at bay is important. One of my first projects was going to be building a screened in porch. As chance would have it I found a screened in living tent (8ft X 8 Ft) for just $8 at the local thrift store. That is pure fortune.

I was also going to build a little mini desk for writing but found a folding wooden TV table for just $5 at Habitat for Humanity Restore, where I have been looking for equipment and wood.

I also needed to build steps up to the RV since the current ones didn’t offer very much support. I was going to build a fancy one but chanced upon 2 large cinder blocks (cement) and happened to have some wood to put over them. Total cost = $4. A lot cheaper than the $50 in wood. Eventually, I will build a nice platform step with a door, kind of a mud room that will also reduce the bugs getting in (though so far, I have kept the bugs down to a minimum, so it seems well sealed).

Most of the projects are about simple storage space in the RV. I need to renovate the closet and sink I took apart earlier this year and create a more functional, aesthetically pleasing one. I also don’t like the look of the shelving and space in the kitchen so I need to replace it and add some more shelves. The living area will receive a matching upgrade. Once these are finished, I’ll trim the flooring too with some nice quarter round.

I’ve cleared my area to make a nice open location with pathways. I’ve set up my laundry routine and wash line. The toilet (bucket) under the RV is in place for my bodily waste. I’ve got my outdoor and indoor sitting areas. My temporary steps are in place.

Priorities are all taking care of.

The next one. Time for a vegetable garden. I have a perfect sunny area to do this. On the weekend I will be setting this up and it will probably be next weeks post.

foolish mistake with power

AC power is the first thing I take care of next month. An inverter and extra battery (or two) to get the fridge functioning and have a power source other than my car to charge the laptop and tablet. The land owner is also a solar installer and will be coming up with solar panels and setting up a system next weekend. I want both things in place.

Tell you why.

I’d been using my power tools enough to have drained both batteries and I needed to charge them up. I have an inverter for the car, so I decided to plug it in and give one of the batteries a charge. It started raining and I was distracted with so many things that I forgot to unplug after I turned off the car. When I remembered and went out to the car, I had completely drained the battery. Not even enough to give it a kick of juice. Dead.

Foolish mistake.

Fortunately, I have a second vehicle, being the green conscious person I am. The RV, which I needed to give myself a boost.

I’m smart enough to carry jumper cables in my car at all time. It wasn’t easy pushing the car back by myself on a muddy surface though. Remember, it had been raining.

FYI…I also keep my tool box,usually my computer and guitar with me so I can always “stay where I am and fix or entertain”.

I had to wait until this morning to take care of it because of the bugs, rain and light yesterday evening.

DONE. I’m on the road now.

Probably not a mistake I will ever make again, like the one time I locked my keys in the car. I am thinking it is time for a Roadside Membership with CAA for these little just in case measure.

I’ll leave you here for now, but stay tuned and I’ll fill you in on the garden next week and then we will start on the nitty gritty of each aspect of living off grid.

contact me

We have room for more people. If you are interested in living in the beautiful cottage country of the Muskoka’s, give us a shout. We are also able to accommodate people who would like to camp, short or long term. Facilities are up to you.

I would love to hear from you. If you have specific things you would like to know about or would like to learn more about living off grid please contact me at off grid AT simplystephen DOT ca and I will get back to your (or write a blog post about it.)if you liked this post, take a gander at these ones

the subtle difference of life on the grid and off

simply stephen — Tue, 08 May 2012 18:11:40 +0000

I’ve arrived.

I’m off grid at beautiful Wilderhaven in the Muskoka region of Utterson, Ontario.

Going Mobile - Setting Off Grid May 2012

The drive went very smoothly from Lakefield and ironically she (my new 1978, 18 ft Dodge Sportsmen RV) was very good on gas since I may never drive her again.

My intention was always to use her as a tiny home.

It didn’t take long for me to get set up. We levelled her and put her on blocks.

New Off Grid Location, Utterson, Ontario

My friends (who helped me by driving my car up with me) stayed a short while and left me to enjoy my first night in solitude.

I’ve decided to write separate articles about waste, toilet, shower, cleaning, dishes, lighting, power, RV projects/renovations, internet options and so on.

the subtleties of my off grid life

No power.

No power means no internet. When the battery runs out there is no more computer time until I charge it.

No power means lighting comes from my battery. I do have an LED Lantern and backup.

No power means no fridge or microwave. Food is a deliberate and enjoyable act. Mostly fresh.

…and yes, no power means no television. I haven’t watched it for years.

Transportation is mandatory.

Keeping a licence is important.

Maintaining the car so it drives is important in an emergency and to get supplies.

The car gets me to the various libraries and places to socialize – after all, I am off grid and alone most of the time.

I have a bike, which will be put to good use. As I get in better shape, I may venture to take much longer rides to the library.

I love hiking and it is likely I will hike on the property but also on the various trails in the region. Usually, one has to drive to get there.

Canada has a small population. There isn’t just a bus route everywhere and when there is, it can be expensive because of the small tax base.

Silence really is golden.

Instead of humming motors, it’s hummingbirds.

The crickets and frogs at night are deafening, yet it is comforting and relaxing unlike the man made sounds in populated areas.

My head is being filled with stimulation it chooses to take in, not what it is forced to see or hear.

No more one sided cellphone conversations next to my head or frantic text messaging as if the world was ending…chipmunks just look for nuts.

Life becomes even more conscious.

Choices are extra important.

What you bring home needs to be disposed of…zero or very low waste is the impact target.

Food will go off…choose well. Cook it in batches to save fuel. Consider nutritional value. Have just the right amount of spices and herbs.

Grow what you can.

Time is available to explore and enjoy…boredom is not an option.

Life is deliberate.

There is time to get resourceful and figure out how to reuse something or make something from scratch.

Having the right tools and equipment is an ongoing process. It’s not about acquiring them all, it’s about having access to the right ones. That could mean borrowing, when the time comes.

excitement ramping up

I figured the excitement would subside as I got under way, but it’s just building up, more and more. It is motivating me to explore share and discuss every detail with each and every one of you that wants to learn and live a similar lifestyle.

I know lots of you want to but are apprehensive about taking the plunge. If someone was there to walk you through it would that make a difference in your choice?

Drop me a line if you want support, have questions and need to learn where or how to get set up.

Please send an email to offgrid AT simplystephen DOT ca with the title “off grid question” and I’ll catch it as soon as I drop into the library.

If there is anything you are interested in hearing about, please ask specific questions (as many as you would like and I will try to accommodate you with an answer on the blog or via email as quickly as humanely possible.

Remember I’m off grid with no power. That means no internet access.

Options are also available to look at living off grid on the Muskoka property I am currently living on. Until next time.if you liked this post, take a gander at these ones

almost off grid, feeling like a chicken with it’s head cut off

simply stephen — Fri, 04 May 2012 07:00:28 +0000

Since last week it’s been much the same as the previous month. Lot’s of running around. After healing from my sore knee, I finished the last week fighting off a cold. I feel like a chicken with it’s head cut off running around…okay, you get the picture.

But, I’m almost there.

On Saturday I move off grid and am so excited.

Though I dropped out of the traditional work force almost a decade ago, I only dipped my foot in an out of the off grid experience. Usually, I house sat, visited friends, had brief family stays, was travelling, renting a room or was camped out of my car.

Nothing as permanent and deliberate as an RV off grid in the Canadian Wild.

I’ve been finishing up the last minute preparations. Grabbed some cat litter buckets and restaurant jars for my water solutions. I already have a carbouy (demi-john) and smaller gallon jugs / wine bottles for my drinking water. Enough water to last for several weeks at this time.

My waste collection solution is in place.

I ripped out the back of the RV for my first mini renovation in order to remove a large and heavy tool chest and make more space. I was able to grab some free wood cuttings from a construction site to provide me with the frame and shelves, as well as a little extra for some future projects.

Made a few more donations, will possibly purge even more after I have settled in.

Went through all my papers again and cut them in half. Now down to a handful. I will eventually scan most of them, along with my photos and some sentimental things in the fall when I do a house sit.

Picked up a camera and few little cooking tools, all used.

On Wednesday, I visited the owner of the property at the Renewable Energy School he works at for a free workshop.

The RV is almost ready to go.

Most of my stuff is packed.

Bit of tidying up.

Do some laundry before I go.

My friend will be dropping by to drive the car. Wow. Do you know how hard it is to find someone who can drive standard? It’s tough.

I also had to register and plate the vehicle all for just one simple drive of about 200 kilometres. Than she gets parked, hopefully for good. The drive will be a bit of fun. Gas will cost me a small fortune.

Am also reloading a fresh Linux on my old Pentium 4 computer and donating it to an autistic child before I leave. It is impossible to power it off grid at the moment and I have my new laptop and tablet. Since I’m going to the library for internet it will be a simple way for me to work.

Not sure when I’ll drop back on the site with a fresh posting but…I hope to show you guys a few little “how I compost” etc. type of posts over the next couple months.

I’m sure I’ve missed great stuff I could fill you in on but…until my brain works properly, which will probably not be for a few weeks, this will have to do.

Wish me luck with the move. I had to register and plate the vehicle all for just one simple drive of about 200 kilometres. Than she gets parked, hopefully for good. The drive will be a bit of fun.

Here’s to the big move this Saturday, one of my dreams fulfilled. Signing out…or is that OFF grid for now.if you liked this post, take a gander at these ones

bear paws, cordless saws and tiresome laws

simply stephen — Fri, 27 Apr 2012 22:38:12 +0000

Getting Ready to move off grid in the 1978 New RV - April 2012

The last week has been even busier than the previous one.

So much to deal with before going off grid.

I injured my knee last week but it seems to have recovered (somehow, must have been in my sleep because I don’t know why). I wasn’t going to let it stop me but it sure did slow me down.

It’s better now.

Thanks for asking.

Not only am I packing up, but I’m preparing a location in the wilderness to park a vehicle. I need to tool myself properly for off grid living which means getting rid of stuff I just can’t use and finding the right things.

I had to go up tot he property to pick up the gate key and prepare the landscape for parking the RV. I’m so excited about retiring an RV to become a Tiny home. It’s a great way to give it new life. In the meantime on the property, we had to take down a few branches and being green I actually transplanted several trees to create a hedge and to save them from being destroyed.

Fear not, we will be planting many trees and, all indigenous with the exception of the fruit orchard and vegetable gardens we put in.

So the camping area is prepared now but I still had so much to do back in Peterborough.

I picked up a cordless tool kit second hand. Found it online for $40. With no power, it’s a handy item. Has a drill, reciprocating saw, light and skill saw.

I’ve also picked up an extra strong battery for my new lightweight laptop. It’s a 9 cell lithium, which will give me about 8-12 hours of battery life now. I also picked up an Asus Transformer Tablet to do all my reading and other media while off grid. When I find a keyboard attachment for it, I will be able to get a good 10-15 hours of reading and research done on it. It also acts as a great backup machine in a pinch.

I won’t be getting Web access on the property.

Yeah. Off grid means I have to drive about 20 kilometres to the closest library or town for supplies and Internet access.

My work will be a lot more deliberate. Something I’m looking forward to since it will help me focus and prepare. I will also be able to really concentrate on my writing, in particular the couple “book like” projects I want to turn into useful tools for you guys.

I also picked up some more general non toxic items, replacing plastic items with glass, an ongoing project to eliminate plastic. Most of the things have now been picked up for now. Some of them I will not need to get until May or June, after I have already moved there, which is approaching fast.

Still need a couple buckets for waste (I know they are plastic), glass carboy for water, couple more glass containers, propane tank and a few cooking items but I can make do if I’m not able to find them.

It’s all about patience and resisting the urge to buy new items from the big bad corporations. I did actually go into a dollar store and buy some duct tape, a BBQ scraper and spray bottle. It just seemed like a logical place to stock up.

I’ll be glad when it is all done. Being the anti-consumer I am, I realize it is a necessary evil to get prepared but usually I go months without buying anything.This has been hard for me, though the computer stuff is cool for a geek like me, otherwise shopping is not too much fun.

Food is the exception. I love shopping the markets for fresh produce.

I do like getting a deal though and I’m very resourceful.

One of the reasons I wanted these items immediately is to make sure I can keep my place sealed and clean. I don’t want smells so the spray bottle is my cleaning bottle with a solution of vinegar, tea tree oil and water. The scraper is for keeping the new BBQ clean.

Why so urgent? At the gate of Eden Wild we saw a fresh bear track.

So, I’ll need to get an airhorn, just in case.

Oh…and I need a camera to document all of this for you guys…and me too.

Lastly, I’ve had to adjust my time schedule after finding out the tow truck was going to cost a minimum of $700 to move it up to the location.

So the red tape parade begins. I’ve had to find a friend to help me out. He will drive my car and I will drive the ancient RV which I hope makes it on the journey safely. That means I now have to register the vehicle, pay taxes on it, get a temporary plate permit and insure it for just one day.

Phone calls. Visits in person to the registration office. I also had to spend 12 emails back and forth to convince my insurance company, whom I’ve been with for 28 years to insure the vehicle for the 10 day permit.

They declined. I insisted. They made it complicated.

I told them about my patronage.

I won.

Time spent. Frustrating.

Do you hear it? One of the reasons I want to move off grid is to get away from the social bureaucracy and madness we all seem to face in the world today.

I’m also trying to get the desktop computer and monitor sold. I need to spend a bit of time tweaking my new computers but generally, I’ll just wing it.

One last run to the donation box next week and on Saturday I’ll be heading up north. I’ll fill you in next week on what’s happened.

These are some of the reasons I will be slowing down on the blog posts for a while and concentrating on other things.

Very exciting. Very tiring.

The next chapter begins soon…next week will prove to be even more eventful.if you liked this post, take a gander at these ones

the long and winding off grid road

simply stephen — Fri, 20 Apr 2012 22:36:51 +0000

The road has been long and winding to my journey off grid. Sometimes a bit bumpy but eventful and certainly exciting, none the less.

There’s tons going on.

I’m in the middle of a big transition to an off grid lifestyle. So far I’ve faced a number of obstacles but am finding solutions for all of them…or at least stop gaps.

I’ve found a 150 acre property at a place called Eden Wild in the Muskoka cottage region of Ontario, Canada. It’s a planned intentional community in the early stages for people interested in sustainable, low impact living.

I’ve talked about my desire to live in a tiny home.

I believe, in Ontario it is possible to build a comfortable off grid house with all the amenities for under $50,000. I’m shooting for $25,000 and I’ve referenced it before as the Yurtopia Project. The project has been simmering in the background for a few years but it’s bubbling to the surface now.

I’ll talk more about in the coming months. If you are interested in participating in our intentional community, please contact me at community AT simplystephen DOT ca for further details or to introduce yourself.

It’s really for people ready to drop out of the rat race and enjoy life. Non denominational and it’s not a work farm.

We would look at sharing infrastructure.

We would have a greenhouse and orchards.

We would maintain off grid power together.

A think tank sustainable community with common goals in a laid back atmosphere.

Much more to come on this in good time…so much more.

the last few weeks

Quite out of character, I’ve travelled out of town for 5 weekends in a row leaving me exhausted. But things need to get taken care of.

I’m tired. There is so much more to do.

For those of you not aware of what’s going on, I bought an RV (recreational vehicle) in October. It’s an older model with all the basics (stove, shower, toilet, sink, fridge, microwave, beds) and I’m not putting it on the road (except to move it). The purpose was to make my transition to off grid living in a tiny home.

Onto the next chapter in life.

So over the next few weeks I’ll fill you in briefly on my preparations, decisions and antics.

There are many things I need to take care of including water, power (to run the appliances), technology (so I can blog), waste management, toilet management, garden, moving the RV, lighting, food and upgrades to the interior.

I’ll have some separate posts on each.

I’ve been tooling up for the move and getting rid of some stuff. Things that are no longer necessary for an off grid mobile living arrangements and things that are mandatory.

My mobile lifestyle is going to lead to many changes in my life.

In Canada, it would be virtually impossible to live in an RV over the winter.

My plan to be location independent is really a two pronged approach. I love Ontario, especially in the summer, but also love to travel. With a daughter living in England, I want to be able to spend the winter in Europe and summer in Canada. Now I can do that with a permanent home base.

I will blogging at the library and have limited Internet access. For the next 4-6 weeks my plate is very full with all the arrangements. I’ll be trying to get at least one post up every week but it will take until June to build a routine and discover all the ins and outs. Thanks for your patience…there will be lots of good stuff coming about the off grid lifestyle and why I have chosen this route.

Look forward to sharing more soon.if you liked this post, take a gander at these ones

15 creative uses for empty wine bottles

simply stephen — Fri, 13 Apr 2012 07:00:00 +0000

We’ve looked at 21 ideas to reuse wine corks but the cork isn’t the only thing you can reuse from your wine.

Apart from the obvious 10 cent recycling or next batch of wine, there are many creative and decorative uses for empty wine bottles.

With over 300 million bottles sold each year there is no shortage.

in the garden

retaining wall – if you have access to a lot bottles there are lots of examples of beautiful glass walls and some people have even made houses or sheds with them.
garden border – this one is a simple weekend project if you just dig a small trench around your garden and insert the bottles face down
bird feeder – there are some very creative seed feeders using glass cutters or attaching trays but if you cut a whole in the cork and insert a tube it makes a great hummingbird feeder
wind chime – while you won’t want to have glass against glass, you can cut off the bottom using a glass scorer and insert a metal tube to make a chime
solar water heater – there are many creative solutions to heat up water for solar showers using low cost materials

time to entertain

drinking glasses – again use a glass scorer, sand the edges and make a set of different colour and size glasses
cheese tray – if you can borrow or purchase a glass fusing kit there are many kitchen plates and trays you can make (not to mention ornaments and other useful gadgets)
liquid dispenser – keep the cork and use it to dispense oils and liquids for foods or make a great toxin free soaps dispenser
vase – simple, practical and ornamental
candle holders – you can use them as is or cut the glass and make more creative candlesticks

around the house

book shelf – drill holes for the bottle neck to go through and find the perfect size piece of wood to make great stackable shelves
plant watering tool – put in your water and nutrients, turn upside down and place in your indoor pots to water gradually
lamp – there are some extremely nice looking lights made old bottles
oil lamp – add your fluid, create a wick and light it for ambiance inside or out.
Christmas ornament – with the holiday season coming up there are great things to do with your old bottles by simply inserting a string of LED lights (good all year round)

Not one of these projects takes a lot of time. The costs are very minimal versus the purchase of conventional products.

Oh…and don’t forget about those corks.

What great ideas can you come up with?if you liked this post, take a gander at these ones

downsizing for an off-grid lifestyle

simply stephen — Wed, 11 Apr 2012 07:00:35 +0000

I’m already a minimalist.

Maybe not one of the “I own 37 things type”, but I don’t see the purpose. I’ve spoken about it before.

Things worth keeping are the ones that add value to your life.

So, if you have 700 items that add value to your life so be it. If you have 12. That’s great.

Now, I actually don’t have very much stuff, so when it comes to downsizing, really what I’m doing is a spring cleaning. It also makes sense to eliminate things I can’t really fit or use in an RV.

I always try to eliminate the things I don’t use actively.

Some of you may have a whole house to downsize. The sooner you start, the easier it will be. Currently, I fit everything into three boxes & four bags. It’ll only take a couple hours to pack and move it all.

But I’m downsizing more.

I love becoming more and more minimal.

It gives me such a sense of freedom.

And if I am not able to use something, why save it for a rainy day?

Someday, never comes.

For instance, my desktop computer is really not practical. I have a laptop and netbook too. Computers may be my weakness, but I’ve been a geek for over a quarter century and a couple years ago when my one and only machine broke down, I made sure I had redundancy.

After all, I am a web writer. I need a computer.

I’ll sell the desktop and flat screen for cheap. I may downsize my laptop for a smaller, more energy efficient model, if time and funds permit and will replace the netbook with a tablet before the summer is out. Those changes mean a more compact and energy efficient lifestyle.

Believe me, energy will be a strong consideration when I am off grid.

There’s little things to take care of too. It’s time for a new portable headset with a microphone. Maybe some mini travel speakers for entertainment and some more data storage.

my downsizing method

Some will be sold, some will be donated.

First off I’m offering some things to friends. DONE. It felt extra good to be the one offering stuff to people I know, instead of donating to strangers.

My desk (a very simple retro 50′s table with attachable legs) is becoming my outdoor sitting table. I have a few folding wooden chairs to compliment it.

Papers have been condensed.

About 1/3 of my clothes have been donated including my big bulky towel. I’ve slowly been replacing them with more practical threads – highly breathable, very lightweight, compact and quick drying.

Some kitchen stuff was donated but I am generally geared up to have what I need, a few utensils, spatula, wooden spoon, saucepan, frying pan, my travel coffee mug, water mug and a of course a corkscrew. I am getting a few stainless steel restaurant kitchen trays from a liquidator to do my dishes and laundry in.

I’ll boil my water and cook on a two burner camping stove even though the RV has one but it is built in and I would have to fill it up and re-certify it, which isn’t worth it.

I will be using a couple 5 gallon glass wine jugs to store water. I may get a full size car buoy, the ones you make wine in to give myself a good supply.

I’ve got a little dust broom but when I find the right replacement I’ll go with a metal dustpan and wooden dust broom (notice I’m edging away from plastic).

Books are almost non existent and have been for quite a few years. I did manage to get rid of a couple more though. I’ll be doing a great deal of reading with all the electronic books I have. That’s where the tablet will really come in handy. The library will too.

I’ve kept a couple sentimental pictures so I can look at my daughter every day. Even my diploma went and I’m scanning my remaining photos.

There were a couple ornaments I had been given by my grandparents that were giving me a hard time…I’ve decided to ship them to my daughter in England as a present. A soapstone owl and turtle I carved along with a pottery frog I made will remain.

I’m keeping my bike.

I’m keeping my tool chest and the RV has a large lockable tool chest to store valuables.

I’m probably going to add a soldering gun, mini sewing machine and cordless drill. The rest are hand tools. Just enough to create, reuse or repair anything (this may deserve a post in the future).

I’m grabbing a reticulating ladder I’d loaned to a friend for the last few years. That will give me a chance to get on the roof of the RV, use it as a laundry rack and workbench too.

My bedding along with a sleeping bag is all going right into the RV in my duffel bag, where it will stay.

Everything else fits into two medium size silver crates and one blue container (biggest one is 24′ X 20′ X 14), clothes go in my 70L backpack and my computer goes in a special backpack.

I may downsize my bag in the fall to an airline carry on, essentially replacing 3 bags with one. With a small, medium and large stuff sack, I should be able to eliminate any space with room to spare. I’ll evaluate my clothing over the summer and make sure I have the perfect setup by the time autumn comes.

As mentioned I have my papers in a very small bag.

My guitar is all that remains.

off grid power and luxuries

Essentially, living off grid has helped me choose what to keep.

It will dictate my eating too.

My laptops have battery power and I can charge them at the library or with the inverter I have for my car. The RV does have a microwave, fridge and electric outlets but I need AC power to use them. By chance the land owner is a solar specialist so…we will look at a more permanent and inexpensive solution this spring.

As for basic power supply I’ve researched many portable power kits and this one from Goal Zero looks to be perfect, for under $300 with 50W power, 13W solar panels, USB, AC plug and even has an LED Lantern.

I already have an LED headlight but will get an extra lantern. The RV lights should do well and run directly off the backup battery but I’ll hardly use them.

It is likely I’ll get a portable solar shower for about thirty bucks (pvc free) so I don’t have to buy a water pump and worry about the sink and shower. A quick, easy and cheap solution.

I’ll be taking a lot of navy showers where I simply wipe myself down with a cloth, soap up and rinse. This uses a small amount of water in a bucket and keeps me clean. There are 3 small lakes, a pond and river running through the property so swimming every day will help keep me clean.

I use vinegar, baking soda, tea tree oil and water to clean everything – me, laundry, surfaces & dishes. All biodegradable.

Well…if you followed me. Good for you.

I’m all over the board but I hope sharing the process gives you picture of how simple it can be.

There are solutions. Easy ones for everything. No hardship necessary. When possible I will upgrade to make life easier. If not, I enjoy camping and this is certainly camping in style with a nice sitting area, lighting, power, comfortable bed, shower area, stove, sinks, storage, laptops for entertainment and so on. Not exactly roughing it.

And oh, btw…I’m keeping my cribbage board and a deck of cards, a must for when company arrives.if you liked this post, take a gander at these ones

21 ideas to reuse wine corks

simply stephen — Fri, 06 Apr 2012 07:00:18 +0000

Did you know there are places to recycle your old wine corks – Whole Food, Municipal Recycling and socially conscious organizations?

Corks are recycled for many things such as flooring tiles, insulation, craft materials, sporting goods and even garden mulch.

With growing demand and ecological concerns it’s important to recycle what we can.

There are some great cork recycle programs.

That is often where the municipalities and local programs send them anyway.

A couple great organizations include Yemm & Hart (they recycle materials to find a new use for them) or ReCork.

Before you drop them off, think about what you could reuse them for.

It is safe to say there is probably something you could make.

place holder – cut them in half and gently cut a slit down them or bind several together with twine and put the car in between.
business card holder - you can get creative with this one and design a pattern to display your business cards or marketing material.
mat – wiring or sewing together corks, perhaps with recycled shoelaces and then create a door or bath Matt.
door stopper – attach some to each of the doors in your house that don’t have one of those wire stoppers
cabinet stopper – cut them in thin slivers and glue them to your cabinets to reduce noise and wear
scratch preventer – same idea as the cabinet stopper but for coasters, pot holders and so many household items that are placed on surfaces that could scratch.
earring holder – just stick them in
pin holder – same as above but a little more manly
pouring spout – drill a hole through a cork and use it as a spout.
cork board – design a handy cork wall or board to pin up important items
packaging material – great to protect items during shipping or delivery
fishing bobble – cheap and easy
hot pad – just like the mat, string them together and protect your table
boat key chain – ever dropped your keys in the water. Ugh.
stamp – you can make great stamps for business and pleasure
Christmas decorations - try decorations for the tree or little snow angels
Christmas or autumn wreath – there are some really cool wreaths
cat toy – everything seems to get tried out on the cat: use as is or drill a hole and attach a string for added torment
picture frame – line them up however you like and presto a fit to size picture frame
furniture – I’ve seen larger pieces but something simple like an ottoman for resting your weary feet while you drink your vino.
knife protector / holder – simply stick your knife in, some knives are even best cleaned with a cork.

That should keep you busy for a while, if you aren’t too tipsy from all the wine you’ve obviously had!if you liked this post, take a gander at these ones

12 creative uses for old shirts

simply stephen — Fri, 30 Mar 2012 07:00:58 +0000

Old t-shirts have many uses.

Most people use them as rags or simply throw them out.

They actually can be recycled and there are many people that would gladly take your ragged little hand me downs for projects, sewing, after school groups or workshops.

They don’t need to end up in the garbage.

They can also save you plenty of money by replacing products you would otherwise buy.

Here’s some fresh and some not so fresh ideas for those old rags.

quilt or blanket - if you have sewing skills you can turn them into any form of bedding for decoration or extra warmth
hand bag – make a bag or satchel
rug – sew together a few shirts for a comfortable bathroom or front door rug
tote bag – cloth bags are great for holding your groceries, with a few nip and tucks you can keep your favourite t-shirt alive for longer
bean bag – use them for stuffing and the outside of a diy chair
laptop or equipment sleeve – keep your equipment safe from scratches and weather
dust clothes or rags – use them as is or cut them down to size
napkins – forget buying paper towels, build a never ending supply of serviettes in every colour of the rainbow
eyeglass cleaners – cut them down into small squares and reuse a fresh one every few days.
pet blanket – your dog or cat usually loves your smell so giving them your old shirt to lay on or as a security blanket is always appreciated
drop cloths – sew as many shirts as you want together to create a mini drop cloth for painting or odd jobs.
packaging – why not use them for wrapping paper or the padding for packaging

There you have it a dirty dozen of ideas for your old t-shirts.

Go to instructables or one of the how to sites and you will find detailed instructions on how to create your alternative product.

I’d love to hear your ideas. If you have a suggestion or link to a how to create or make something from your old shirts drop me a line or send me a tweet.if you liked this post, take a gander at these ones

a 5 step downshifters guide to consumption

simply stephen — Tue, 27 Mar 2012 07:00:14 +0000

We’ve talked about consumerism and reducing our consumption ad naseum.

We’ve talked about downshifting to achieve a more simple life.

We’ve talked about where to swap barter or trade things online.

But…

We’ve probably not touched upon an easy method to purchase things.

The things you really need.

Being green is about reduction and as a minimalist it makes buying things really easy.

Personally, I keep my purchase down to a minimum.

I don’t consume.

I define what I need.

I research and than put it on a 30 day list to curb my impulse.

If I still I need it I usually get rid of something else. Most of time a purchase is a replacement of something.

If I can’t swap or barter, I look for it used online. If I can’t find it I go offline to garage sales, antique and thrift stores looking for an appropriate item.

If that still hasn’t worked, I go back to my research and find the best place to buy it new (which is very rare and infrequent).

If I still can’t find the item…I put it back on my 30 day list. After all, I’ve gone with out it all this time anyway. What’s another month?

So…that was it. It’s really that simple. It’s 6 steps if you add don’t consume.

Here’s a recap: Define. Refrain. Research. Find Used. Purchase new if needed.

if you liked this post, take a gander at these ones

10 creative ideas to reuse old film cannisters

simply stephen — Fri, 23 Mar 2012 07:00:53 +0000

For those of you that remember, photography wasn’t always digital.

We had film. It came in a little black or white case.

Some avid photographers still have a few of them lying around.

So for nostalgia, or if you are just not sure what to do with them, relief is here. There are quite a few great ideas for reuse of those old film canisters.

portable vitamin/medicine kit - headache relief comes to mind, for your purse, bag or travel kit
office stash – put your paper clips, pins or tacks in them
mints – great for storing breath fresheners
coins – put all your excess quarters or coins for the laundry service or parking meter
seeds – great to save dried out seeds until they are ready for planting
salt & pepper shaker – they come in white and black typically, so simply put a couple holes in the lid and presto. Good for camping and travel. Very easy to fill.
spices – do the same with any spices with or without the holes
sewing or buttons – store your excess buttons or make a mini sewing kit
cat toy – throw in a few buttons or something to make it rattle and it will make a great sound. Cats don’t need complicated!
workshop container – great to store screws, nails, nuts, bolts washers

What ideas can you come up with? I’d love to hear your creative uses.if you liked this post, take a gander at these ones

my evolution a mobile solution

simply stephen — Tue, 20 Mar 2012 07:00:35 +0000

Some of you might know this. I just bought a recreational vehicle (RV) as a seasonal living arrangement. I took possession in October and with the sweet weather we’ve been having, I’m itching to move into now.

Very exciting.

I’m evolving to a mobile solution.

It’s an older vehicle, propane converted with two sleeping areas, a kitchen, toilet, shower, 2 sinks (not sure why), cupboards, fridge, microwave and seating for 4. It has LED lighting and a battery to charge my little items, though I have very few things that require power.

why would you buy an old vehicle

I bought it for a song and if I get one season out of it I will save that money in the cost I’ve been paying for rent. Initially, I was thinking of running it, since it was a propane conversion but I got thinking. Why pay for insurance, vehicle registration costs and fuel when I can just park it and it essentially functions like a home?

I was never going to live in a RV park. Just not my thing. If I drove it around, I would visit friends, national parks and crown land. The rest of the time I would spend boondocking and explore really cool places. I might have spent a bit of time working on organic farms (wwoofing) and finding some eco projects and I’m still considering it but the real reason is to get one step closer to providing my own roof over my head.

If I’m lucky I will be able to buy property next year, perhaps with a group of people interested in setting up tiny home living arrangements to reduce costs and share resources and skills.

In the meantime I’m looking for property near Peterborough, just North East of Toronto to rent for a small fee (about $100 -200 depending on if they provide electricity, internet, water and the location). I am also willing to offer some painting, gardening, writing or blogging as payment.

Please share this article and retweet it to anyone you know in Eastern Ontario. I’m also willing to look in Kingston, Haliburton, Georgian Bay or the Muskoka region.

Some of you might say “Hey Stephen, it gets pretty cold in Canada, what are you going to do when the winter comes?”.

To answer your concern. I was never going to sleep in it during the winter.

I wanted to push myself into action.

I’ve been trying to get over to Europe each winter to visit my daughter, learn languages, explore, expose myself (not that way) to new cultures and visit some eco friendly places. Now I am one step closer.

I plan on house sitting for that time and working on my blogs and book. I also want to learn a language properly instead of my partial french and spanish ability.

In the last decade I’ve paid as much as $900 for rent and had to deal with either a lot of extra expenses and time spent maintaining a place or I’ve had privacy, cleanliness and noise issues. I’m a bit tired of picking up after people, listening to video games at 3am, cleaning other people’s dishes so I could eat, etc.

This is one way to combat that.

I’ve worked my way down to a lot less than $900 currently but if I get 6 months out of it, I’ve paid for it in peace alone.

The last time I was really able to focus, write and create was 5 years ago when I took off for the solitude of the Yukon. I’m getting the best of both worlds now. I can stay with nature in Ontario and visit my family and friends. I can also have them visit me without worrying about asking permission.

There are many considerations but it’s a chance for me to minimize even more. I’m clearing out some stuff and trading in some gear to get set up properly.

It might take me a little bit of creativity and I might do without a few things for a while but I can always go to the library or a coffee shop to access internet.

Food is pretty easy, especially in the summer. I will probably get an organic food basket.

I can forage.

I can fish.

I pretty well don’t eat meat.

I have options for electricity and internet if I don’t use the vehicle batteries. Yep, there are two. I will have an LED lantern on top of my LED headpiece on top of the RV’s existing lighting.

It’s an adventure, I should have started 7 years ago when I retired. Yep…retired from traditional work.

That’s all for now but next week I’ll share some insights on getting ready for the transition. How I’m looking for places to stay and what process I’m using to trade and acquire the right gear.

Again, if you know somebody that could offer a place to park and live in my RV, I would appreciate it. I need your help with this. I will also look to use that space for storage in the winter. Please, as mentioned above, retweet or contact me at community AT simply stephen DOT ca to let me know if you have a place. Use the subject heading RV LOCATION to catch my attention.

Until next time.if you liked this post, take a gander at these ones

9 more ways to reuse everyday items

simply stephen — Fri, 16 Mar 2012 10:00:00 +0000

After last week’s post on 9 simple ideas to reuse everyday items, I’ve decided to make it a weekly event.

Instead of beating around the bush I’m just going to get right to it here’s 9 more great ideas to creative use everyday items.

bottle caps - can make a great mud scraper for your shoes.
shoe boxes - make great storage containers.
toilet paper rolls - can be used to organize any cords.
toothbrushes - become great scrubbers. I use an old sonic one to clean knives and get in the cracks of items a cloth cant reach.
ziplock bags - can simply be washed and used again, also are good to store documents when travelling
soap scraps - can be kept and pressed into a new bar once or twice a year with your own new fragrance
broken tennis balls – can be used as door stoppers or I love the idea of cutting one in half and using it to unscrew a hot light bulb
shoulder pads - can be used as a dish scrubber or cleaner
out of shape coat hangers – great for roasting marshmallows or hanging a picture frame

That’s it.

Quick and painless.

We’ll get into more detailed (9 ways to reuse a tennis ball) type of article as time progresses.

If you want to do a guest post and have a list of 9 ways to creatively use something, contact me at the email community AT simplystephen DOT ca with the subject line “idea for creative reuse post” and I’ll consider it for submission.if you liked this post, take a gander at these ones

cyanide for supper and arsenic for dessert

simply stephen — Wed, 14 Mar 2012 07:00:43 +0000

People often ask which chemicals are the most dangerous.

Does it really matter?

A toxin is a toxin.

There’s no need to answer. It’s a question we need to look at differently.

Our environment has been systematically destroyed with amazing efficiency in the last century. Our resources are being depleted.

And with each new development, new products are chemicals are created.

We are all being exposed to them. There is no escape.

We find them in our food, building products, air supply, water shed, household goods, toys, gadgets, vehicles, clothes, furniture and health products.

Yep, health products.

They are everywhere.

Is a tiny bit of cyanide less dangerous than a little bit of arsenic?

It’s a silly question. The questions we need to ask are something completely different.

Why are we letting this happen? What can we do about it? How can we make a change? What products aren’t harmful? What is good for me? Are there ways to reverse the damage? Can we help educate and create changes?

And that’s just for starters.

Looking at what you put on or near your body is much more important than worrying about which chemicals are the most dangerous. All chemicals are dangerous. We are all being exposed to them.

It doesn’t mean we are all going to die.

That’s a bit paranoid but climate change, smog, plastic islands in the ocean, increased frequency of asthma and a plethora of recent issues are proof enough.

Green is not just about recycling and finding sustainable choices.

It’s much more.

It’s about eliminating the risks for everyone.

Because as long as people are playing with fire, other people are going to get burned.

As long as greed trumps safety, toxins will be introduced into your life.

Take the time to eliminate some of them.

And then remove more.

There are so many safe food alternatives. There are great household products that don’t carry toxins. You can save a lot of money with some of these green options.

But you can do more!

Take time to talk to your governments.

Educate and share what you discover. It will open your eyes.

Sure, ignorance is bliss but so is a healthy life with a healthy planet.

Discuss things with your peers, family, friends, business, government and community.

Change your habits.

Help build a safer and less toxic road for all of us. It takes a whole village to make it happen.if you liked this post, take a gander at these ones

is the work you do the same thing you dream about

simply stephen — Fri, 09 Mar 2012 19:47:24 +0000

It’s the weekend.

I want to leave you with a single thought.

dream

Dream big and reach for the sky.

Dream of the things you want to achieve.

Dream of places you want to visit.

Dream of people you want to connect with.

Dream of ideas to change the world.

Dream to you little heart’s content.

And after the weekend ,when you go back to work and discover it’s not the same thing as what you were dreaming about.

do something to make it happen

One small step.

Follow that dream and find your true wealth.if you liked this post, take a gander at these ones