Our Favorite Low Waste Practices

Four years ago, we started being more intentional about the waste we produced. I had realized our trash was way out of control - especially for a household of just two people. We didn’t even have a cat yet! I wrote about some easy ways to reduce waste, and we went for it. Today, I am sharing a few of our favorite low-waste products - the ones we use pretty much daily! Some may surprise you.

Bin For Groceries

We keep a collapsible lettuce crate we got from a Super Store in the back of our car for our groceries. It just works easier for us than remembering our reusable bags (which we also keep in the back of our car...). Since we shop ALDI a lot, it works great to keep the crate in the cart and have them put the groceries directly into it once scanned. We carry the crate to the car, into the house, empty it, and the crate goes right back into the car for the next time. And speaking of groceries, making more of our own pantry staples from scratch has cut down on a lot of packaging and really does not take much time!

For Our Food

Each week I meal prep and pack both of our lunches in reusable glass containers . I’ve also gotten reusable sandwich and snack bags which have replaced the disposable plastic bags. Doing this has cut down on costs too! We had a lot of mason jars left over from our wedding so I’ve been using jars to store food and such as well - that way we didn’t have to buy more containers! Packing our own lunches has also helped us make healthy food choice! Double win :)

Side note: using what you have already is a great way to be nearo waste! It’s called repurposing! 

Metal Straws

We.Love.Our.Straws. We use them all of the time. They come in a great case so we can transport them as well. We don’t order drinks when we eat out, and if we get water at a restaurant, we ask for no straw. Of course, life doesn’t always go perfectly and they may come with a straw already in it, but sometimes that happens. 

Water Bottle

We have been faithful to reusable water bottles for years. We prefer glass bottles, but have received some stainless steel ones as gifts that we really enjoy too! They are lighter and keep water cold (or hot) for long periods of time. Our water bottles come with us everywhere we go!

Feminine Hygiene

Whaaaa!!! The internet already knows that I use a menstrual cup, so no more shame here. It took years (literal.years) or research before I took the plunge and I’m kicking myself that I didn’t start sooner. For one, it has already paid for itself - actually it took less than a year. My two favorite things about it: no more overflowing trash can once a month, and I love love LOVE forgetting that I’m even on my period. I’m sorry for all of you who are blushing right now, but do yourself a favor and switch over to a menstrual cup if possible. I’ve only tried the Diva Cup so I can’t speak for any other brands (bonus that it is made in Canada), but there are so many options out there. Great for the environment and for your peace of mind. I wrote a whole post about the cup here, so check it out if you want more information!

DIY Handsoap

Gone are the days of buying those little .99 cent Walmart liquid hand soaps that didn’t smell that great anyway. I’ve been making my own hand soap for years now, and I don’t know if I will ever go back. This large container of Castile Soap lasts more than a year and refills all of the soap containers we have. We have four sinks, which means four soap containers that are constantly being filled. It’s fun to use essential oils to mix and match scents, or just go plain jane too. Whatever. Here is the recipe I use.

Instant Pot

Okay, this is a little strange to be adding to this kind of post, but hear me out! I’ve always been the kind of person who was interested in making meals ahead to eat later. I did it before I knew I could call it “meal prep” and it be a thing. My freezer was my best friend. Ever since getting an Instant Pot, though, I’ve been even more motivated than before! Now my prep time is cut in half and I can make a whole lot more food with a whole lot less mess. How does this help in my nearo waste endeavors? We eat out much less and cook from scratch a whole lot more. Granted, we want to stay in budget as well, but when cooking dinners at home are so easy, fun, and convenient, then it’s a great bonus. I’m hoping to add more Instant Pot recipes to the site soon!

Libraries

We love books. Going completely paperless would be a no-go for us because we love books. But we also realize that we do not need to own every book we read. When I was living at home, you could find me at the library often. If I wasn’t at the library, I was at home or under a tree reading a book I got from the library. It never occurred to me that libraries were a great way to live sustainably and save money! So we got library cards. To more than one library! And to make it even better, we got the Libby app so we could rent from our phones and send the book straight to our kindles (and shoot, I still have an old one from 2012 that is still going strong!). Our reading volume has gone up, as have our book goals (mine is 24 for this year). 

We are always looking for new and easy ways to help the environment, so I doubt that this will be my last post about our favourite low-waste practices. The key is being stress-free about it, and implementing small changes as you go. By the way, Maple Alps now has an Amazon storefront that is always being updated with all of our favorite products, so check it out for more “nearo” waste fun!

Enjoy Each Moment: Practical Ways to Slow Down Today

It is no news that we live in a fast-paced world. I, for one, feel most days that I am constantly running around trying to catch something - even though I’m not always sure what that something is. I know that I personally have to stop sometimes and consciously slow down. When I do, I remember that there really is no rush - as much as I often make myself believe. I mean, I have written on cultivating a slower and simpler life before, so it definitely is on my mind. Here are some ways that you can slow down today, and just be.

Do Less

It is okay to say, “no” to things. It is perfectly fine to have less on your plate. There is no rule that says you have to be involved in everything at all times. Try to avoid filling your plate with activities and responsibilities that cause you stress and do not require your attention. Take time to sit and breathe. Just, do less.

Be Present

Give the attention to loved ones that they deserve. Put devices away (turn off those notifications too!) and spend quality time with others. Be there to listen, really listen, and ask questions. Be aware of yourself; your breathing, your bones. Don’t dwell in the past. Be, present.

Related: How to Cultivate a Slower and Simpler Life

One Task at a Time

Avoid multitasking (since it’s been proven a myth anyway) and give your all to a single task at a time. You may find that you finish tasks quicker and more efficiently this way, which will give you another bout of contented feelings.

Disconnect

I mentioned this already, but don’t be afraid to put your devices away for some time. Be conscious about taking space away from the world you keep in your pocket. Our phones and computers connect us to so much, but it’s good to take some time away from that.

Be in Nature

Being in nature is such a great way to slow down and enjoy some peace. I personally love being near water and listening to it in all forms - waves on a shore, pounding from a waterfall, rushing river...you name it. You may prefer being in the woods listening to the trees sway and hearing their occupants singing songs. I know people who love the desert. Whatever your preference, take some time in nature, taking in the wondrous sights and sounds.

Practice Gratitude

Be conscious of the things you are grateful for every day - not just once a year on Thanksgiving. The more you practice gratitude, the more natural it will become, and the more content you will feel.

Eat Slower

Oh, eating slow. It seems as though our culture often makes us rush everything, including the time we take to nourish and rest ourselves. I have often thought to myself, “oh, if only I didn’t need to eat - I could accomplish so much!” Resist the temptation, however, to rush your eating. Not only will your stomach thank you, you will enjoy food that much more. Take the time to enjoy the scents and flavours of your meals. Enjoy those you share your meal with. 

Related: Gathering with Intention and Simplicity

Drive Slower

This may sound like a weird one, but I find that when I drive slower (by slower, I mean not speeding, ahem), I feel so great! Hear me out - I did it once and felt amazing and so I’ve been testing it often. And lo and behold - I feel more relaxed behind the wheel. I feel more alert of what’s around me (I do try to avoid accidents when I can). I enjoy the scenery and appreciate different surroundings...trust me. Try it. Your slow life will thank you.

Focus on Others

I believe that we were created for relationships. When we take the focus off ourselves and focus on others and meeting their needs, a wonderful phenomenon happens. We feel happy and content and joyful. I’m not talking about neglecting your needs, however; we can’t help others when we are lacking. See what happens when you consciously focus on doing something (even something small) for someone else. You might forget that you weren’t feeling so great.

Breathe

Our lungs do amazing things for our bodies. The oxygen we take in is required for our bodies to function. Afterall, we can’t live long without air in comparison to even food and water! If you are feeling stressed, take some time to take a few deep breaths. If you can’t sleep, breathe deeply. Take time to breathe consciously.

Take Time to Pray

Praying and meditating on Scripture does wonders for the slow life. I personally like doing it early in the morning to set the tone in my day, but you can take time whenever you like.

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How do you take time to slow down every day?

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Making Your Bedroom a Place of Escape

In the past two places we’ve lived, I’m sad to say that our bedroom was our very last priority when it came to making it feel like a livable space. In the first apartment we lived in, we never even bothered to furnish besides our bed, side tables and a mirror, or to hang anything on the spacious walls.  In our second place, it took a full year before we started even considering making it a cozy space. 

Because we like hosting, our situation makes sense when I think about it. We wanted to make sure that the more public areas in our home were presentable and comfortable. It’s not like anyone saw our room and we never had to offer an explanation as to why it wasn’t finished. Now that we are actually in a place that we own, our mentality is also a little different. We are free to do what we like, and there’s a feeling of a bit more permanence.

We naturally like to spend down time in our bedroom, so I don’t know why it took so long for us to realize that we needed to have a space away from the distractions of life and even the rest of our home! Sitting in the living room isn’t as relaxing as lounging in our bedroom, since the constant reminders of chores loom. Here are some ideas that you can incorporate into your bedroom today to create a space you love to relax in.

Get a Separate Work Space

I know, I know, working from your bed is very tempting and very comfortable, but hear me out! Not only is it better for your sleep to do screen work (yes, even watching nighttime television) outside of your bed, it’s better for your frame of mind when coming into your room. You want to associate your bedroom with rest, relaxation, and getting away - not with what work you still need to get done! Set up a space somewhere else in your house to work, do taxes, watch television, do laundry and eat. 

Have a place to retreat

Add someplace in your room, other than the bed, to retreat to. You can add a chair, a window seat, or even a bench at the end of your bed. It’s especially helpful when your back is out and you need some assistance putting on socks...not that that has ever happened to me...

Less Is More

We are the minimalist type - and even more so now. We’ve gotten used to having very little on the walls, owning basic furniture, and having simple living spaces. We find, even when we look at home decor magazines and such that we are drawn to the more minimalistic designs. We find it a reprieve to not have so much stimulating our minds when we look around. Our bedroom is no exception. I can’t explain to you how relaxing it is to come into a space that is not cluttered and is simply decorated. Keeping very minimal items on the various surfaces, and even the wall, allows our minds to rest and dream.

And Speaking of Laundry

Use comfortable bedding and don’t be afraid to play with textiles. I mean, don’t overdo it with the throws and decorative pillows, but don’t be afraid to add some for that extra cozy feel as well. Hang some nice (and preferably black-out) curtains in your space as well. Consider a rug to add another homey dimension. Whatever floats your oasis boat. 

Add Some Greenery

Add some plants. Having real plants in your bedroom is such a treat. You could have some fresh cuts once in a while, or even choose a potted plant that brings you joy. Greenery really livens up a space. 

Choose a Calming Statement Piece

Is that an oxymoron?  We tried for years to decide exactly what kind of perfect statement piece to put above our bed. It never really happened. We would browse art pieces and paintings and all sorts of things and could never decide what could be worthy of hanging above our heads while we dreamed. We finally decided to go for the entire wall and put up a mural. Enter Photowall, a Swedish company that specializes in wall murals, wallpaper, and even canvas prints and posters. 

I will admit that we were a little overwhelmed by just the sheer amount of options they had on their website since we’re pretty indecisive. We finally settled on these gorgeous watercolour mountains. Mountains hold a special place in both of our hearts, as you know by now - and as you know by our website name. We are also both huge fans of hues of blue, so it was perfect. The perfect customized accent wall for our oasis. We now call our bedroom our Mountain Getaway. I love walking in our room and feeling instantly at peace and calm. We seriously love it (I know I said that already but I had to make the point. Hehe)! Our bedroom isn’t completely finished yet, but it is well on the way! Astra approves.

The installation was a breeze. For perfectionists like us, it did take a few hours, but we wanted to make sure it looked fantastic. We buckled down on a Sunday afternoon, and it was done in no time at all! You even have the option of ordering a tool kit with your wallpaper so that you have everything on hand and are ready to go! All you need is a bucket for the paste.

Photowall sent us this gorgeous mural and is offering our readers 25% off this month when you use the code maplealpsblog2020. If you’re looking for an easy but bold way to transform your space, some nice wallpaper, a mural, or even a canvas print might be for you!

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What are some of the ways you make your own bedroom an oasis?

Is it a place you love being in, or would you like to make it a place you’d love being in more?

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The Art of Homemade Gifts

I have always been a fan of gifts that were homemade. Cards, pieces of art, even letters in the mail - anything that someone took the time to put together have always been my favourite type of gift to receive. I have a small box full of the special items that loved ones have made me over the years, and I highly doubt I will ever let them go because I enjoy looking through them from time to time.

Of course, not all gifts are given for long-term usage purposes. Maybe you want to give a neighbor gift to let those in your neighborhood know you’re thinking of them or perhaps you want to send a card of encouragement to a friend. Since it was my birthday not too long ago, here are some ideas that will help you cultivate and appreciate the art of homemade gifts.

This post contains affiliate links

Create with the Recipient In Mind

People enjoy simple gifts that they enjoy. If you make a special kind of granola your recipient loves, a mason jar or tin full of it will bring a smile to their face. If you know they love beautiful wall hangings, make one in their favourite colour (or maybe learn how to make one if you don’t know how to). Pick some eggs from your chicken coup or collect a jar of honey from your hive. You get the point. Honestly, a homemade or well picked-out card always brings a smile too!

Be Creative with Packaging

Creative packaging is so fun! Side note, I actually used to follow a blog that posted design ideas for packaging that graphic design students mocked up. They were so creative! Maybe wrap a food item in a kitchen towel, or craft your own gift bag. Paint a plant pot to accompany some green goodness. Maybe you are mailing a card and want to personalize the stamp or the way you write the address. You know your gift and recipient best.

Do Not Overthink It

Don’t overthink gift giving. The purpose of a gift is to show someone you appreciate them and are thinking about them.  It could be a simple handmade or handwritten card or note or even some flowers or herbs from your garden! It doesn’t need to be fancy or expensive or hard to put together. What they say really is true: it’s the thought that counts.

Expensive Does Not Mean Meaningful

Speaking of the thought that counts, there is no reason to break the bank to share a gift with someone. Keep things simple. Honestly, you could box up a cupcake or two after you made a batch and it would be appreciated to whoever receives it (be mindful of allergies).

Some More Homemade Gift Ideas:

Homemade Hand Soap in a cute jar (you can buy inexpensive foaming soap lids like these on Amazon!)

Body Wash

Homemade Granola

Biscuit Mix

Handmade Card

Loaf of homemade bread

Something crocheted/knitted

Soup in a jar

Hot chocolate mix

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Do you enjoy giving or receiving handmade gifts? What do you love about it?

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Related: An Aspiring Minimalist’s Guide to Gifts

Three Things to Know About Biblical Hospitality

What do you think of when you hear the word, “Hospitality”? I’m sure a few things may cross your thoughts like perfect Pinterest-worthy table settings and the latest mason jar craft. Maybe the South comes to mind with their famous Southern Hospitality, or finally getting to use that fancy wedding set you got years ago. I must admit: I thought the same. Since I was young, I would pour over home magazines, oohing and ahhing over all the pretty things that could house delicious meals (who am I kidding? I still do that from time to time). When I threw a party, I threw a party, going all out with decor and matching dishes and sometimes thematic scapes that would impress even Joanna Gaines (okay, maybe not that great, but you get the picture). 

When the topic of Biblical Hospitality came  up, I had no idea what that was. I had taken one of those spiritual gifts test and had gotten hospitality as one and I did not know what that meant. I decided to dig a little deeper. Here are just a few things I found in the Bible about hospitality (all verses are from the English Standard Version)

• “Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for thereby some have entertained angels unawares.” Hebrews 13:2

• “Show hospitality to one another without grumbling.” 1 Peter 4:9

• "Contribute to the needs of the saints and seek to show hospitality." Romans 12:13

• "She opens her hand to the poor and reaches out her hands to the needy." Proverbs 31:20

• “...and breaking bread in their homes, they received their food with glad and generous hearts” Acts 2:46

• “I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me” Matthew 25:35

It is tempting to get discouraged in times like today when social media shows picture-perfect homes and tablescapes. It’s tempting to just give up and not even bother trying unless your party is Instagram-worthy. 

With the Bible being so clear on the importance of each of us showing hospitality, I felt it important to not only practice it, but help others do so as well. Today, I want to share with you just three things to know about Biblical Hospitality. I hope it is practical for you and will encourage you as you move forward in blessing others!

1) It Is For Everyone and Yields Great Joy

We are to show hospitality to everyone we meet - not just our family and friends. Hospitality requires vulnerability and obedience. Some of the best and most memorable visits are messy and unexpected. Sometimes showing hospitality is even unwanted! I’ve had many a time, especially because I’ve devoted my life to ministry, where people have shown up at the door, or plans have been made very last minute. I’m quite type A and like to have things perfectly in order. When I’m tempted to turn people down or shrink away, I remember Christ’s example of embracing everyone. It is always a blessing when I choose to follow His way.

Although the practice of hospitality asks the sacrifice of our time, our needs and our resources, it is rewarded with great joy. There is not much that is more energizing and fulfilling than serving others. You just need to be willing!

2) Hospitality is Not the same as Entertaining

There is no mention of Pinterest or picture-perfect table spreads in any definitions of hospitality. Of course, there is nothing wrong with making things beautiful for our guests (and we absolutely should create pleasant and warm atmospheres for them), but is your motivation true hospitality, or just showing off? 

Remember: entertaining is to impress, but hospitality is to bless.

The best hospitality I’ve experienced has been with those who encourage me and welcome me without even trying. I’ve left their company refreshed and ready to pass their love to others. Be sure that people leave your company refreshed and invigorated for good, and pray that they have experienced Christ through you.

3) Hospitality Is About More Than Sharing a Meal

Hospitality can be risky, and is asked of all of us (remember those verses above?). While some of us may find it easier to do than others, we are all called to show Christ's love and hospitality - it can be (and should be!) a part of our lives.

Being aware of the needs of others is a huge way to show this. Pray with others. Encourage them. Listen to them! Yes, give them a meal if that is how you are ministering to them. Meeting needs in a practical way is truly hospitable - would we not want the same to be shown to us?

Hospitality is for us to show God's love to others. God calls us to it, and the rewards are eternal. We have been blessed so we can bless others. Withholding hospitality will hinder our joy. 

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How do you show hospitality? What are some things you struggle with when doing so? Does it come easily to you?

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