I had originally scheduled posts with some issues I have with zero-/low-waste shopping, but with everything that has been going on as of late, I’ve put those off for now. This gives me time to edit my dissertation and get some posts/videos completed, like the latest FabFitFun box. Okay, I know some of you are probably thinking, “But that’s not low-waste”. It is for me. I can gift the items I won’t use, and the packaging for everything else can be recycled in my area. We have some sweets to try out, and (not related to videos) it’s time I got to cleaning up some of the mess around here. Is it bad? No, but it makes it hard to be productive.

Many of us in the States are experiencing lockdown situations (don’t want to comment on the rest of the world because I don’t know the situations elsewhere), and are telecommuting to work. Schools have closed, and online platforms are being put in place so they don’t miss out on class time. Can you still go outside? Sure, if you’re healthy and have a yard. Just make sure to practice good and thorough hygiene. Exercise caution. Anyway, here are some zero-/low-waste ideas to pass the time.

1. Try Pickling & Fermenting: If you’re a pickle fan, try making your own with heart veg you have on hand. I like making pickled celery and sugar peas. You can also look up quick pickles that you can eat the data you make them. When it comes to fermenting, I love Maangchi’s recipe for dongchimi, which I make often (even when it’s not winter). I’ve found that pretty much any radish from an Asian market works. It takes approximately 7 days to make, though most of that time is just waiting.
2. Get those things done around the house! Often times there are things that need doing, but there are just not enough hours in the day. Change the lightbulb that’s been out since Christmas, toss in a load of laundry, clean up the rooms, and see what you can do in a certain period of time. For instance, put a load of laundry in the wash. Next, put cleaning solution in your shower so it can set (always follow the instructions), and do up the dishes. Check the time on the laundry, and I’ll bet there is still plenty of time left. It’s amazing what you can accomplish under time constraints. This, by the way, isn’t meant to be stressful.
3. Finish those projects. Get to finishing up the projects you’ve started on. Whether it’s a crocheted scarf, finishing a light remodel (i.e. rearranging the furniture, hanging wallpaper), painting or drawing, diorama, or something else entirely, get it done! If you can take the time, kids may also enjoy putting down the electronics and creating their own masterpiece. Not crafty? Try creating a compost system.
4. Organize: Assuming you have it, take the extra time to organize shelves, closets, rooms, and bags. Get a schedule set up for what needs doing and what is on your calendar.
5. Read: Do you have a book that has been lying around? Sure, you meant to read it, but time passed you by. Here is it, some time later, and it’s still on the table. Well, pick it up and get to reading! It passes the time and takes your imagination to new heights.

What else is there to do? When I think of others, I’ll have second post. I need to get back to editing, so I’ll leave you here. If you have any suggestions, leave them in the comments! Hopefully you get some value out of this. If you have kids at home, after their studies, get them involved. Why? Because, as the saying goes, “time flies”.

Peace & Love, always!