It’s official – I am over it. Almost 30 years old, a masters degree, a cat, a dying social life, and a cleared-out savings account. I try to maintain a positive outlook, but after the last several months (see US news), that’s pretty worn through. So today I decided – Enough. I am tired of coming home from work each night demoralized and only wanting to go to bed. I am taking matters into my own hands and making a space I can enjoy and actually use to re-charge.
The timing for this project works beautifully. After a sudden rent hike, I recently moved into a smaller apartment in a new area. It’s the perfect opportunity for a fresh start! A smaller space means downsizing is necessary, either neatly a la Marie Kondo or my default state of Animal from the Muppets. The warm details in the older building suggest strong grandma vibes (excellent for recharging a worn-down spirit). And the frankly adorable balcony whispers of possibilities for a cozy retreat, or at least the opportunity for saving money on groceries.
Bottom line, I want to be a hobbit. I have no more interest in slaying corporate dragons or building great world-changing nonprofits. Life has pretty well beaten that out of me. Instead, I want to live a simple life, help others where I can, and enjoy the simple pleasures of tending a garden, eating good food, and spending quality time with friends and family. I want to surround myself with beauty, be it music, art, or flowers. I want to give my cat a full, enjoyable life and spend time sharing that enjoyable life with him.
Unfortunately, I accept that moving to Middle Earth is not actually possible. I can’t afford to emigrate to New Zealand. In the interim, I can use what resources I have to make that life for myself here in the heart of the city. But I can’t possibly be the only single professional out there in this boat! So I’ve also decided to share this experience with the Internet in the hopes of connecting with others out there. We may be lonely, but we aren’t alone. And who knows? Maybe someone else will come along and learn from my successes and mistakes along the way.
This blog will document my process of unpacking into this new apartment and turning the shell into a sustainable home, all on a tiny budget. Eventually, I want to not only enjoy my cozy apartment but also grow a significant portion of my own food and produce the bulk of my own cleaning products. Who says homesteads have to be rural?
This is also not going to be a quick weekend project. I anticipate a multi-year process, so blogging will also take the form of a journal. As time progresses and I learn new skills, I’ll document what works and what doesn’t, what’s worth DIY-ing and what’s worth spending a few bucks to save time. My hope is that by the end of the process, I’ll be able to live a healthier, happier lifestyle.
So let’s get started! I hope you enjoy the ride.
Dirt Cheap Haven 
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