Tiny Kitchens (And Tiny Houses)

Some of you may know this about me, but I've recently been obsessing over tiny houses and love to see innovative, small kitchens. Aaron has always been intrigued by the idea of living unconventionally and minimally on what you need, but only recently has this tiny living concept caught my interest. We're enthralled by the simplistic, minimalist lifestyle that refuses to go along with the pulse of our consumerist-driven culture, which is that more possessions will make you happy. In fact, the idea that we can live on less has been freeing in a lot of ways, although we haven't abandoned our home and television just yet :). We're not running toward a tiny house on wheels just yet, especially not with our three animals (yikes!) but it has been eye opening to learn about these incredible tiny dwellers and how their decisions to live smaller have allowed them to live more abundantly and help the environment. When we moved from Houston to Orlando, we were actually excited to try and squeeze all of our belongings into a 900 sq. ft. home -- and to most tiny dwellers, even 900 sq. ft is too uncomfortably roomy! But we're happy to get rid of some of the excess, nonetheless. 

While we love living a tad smaller, it's definitely a challenge to try to work around a tiny kitchen. Until we have our own place (we're currently renting) there is not much we can do other than the magnetic knife-holders and a lot of hooks and organizers; but we've made it work and love our little kitchen. We may get a small island from IKEA, but we're not sure just yet if there is room. Aaron will be building us a kitchen nook table in the near future, so I'll keep you posted on that DIY project. But in the mean time, check out Tumbleweed Tiny House Company and watch the teaser to the Tiny documentary below. I'm betting I can make a believer out of you (or you may just think I am crazy, and that's OK). Since I have (obviously) been pinning adorably tiny and quaint kitchens on Pinterest, here are some of my favorite finds. If you have any amazing organizational tips for small kitchens, don't leave a sister hangin.' I am not a type A person, and organization scares me, y'all -- it's kind of my downfall and why I am just a "closet minimalist." :) But hey, I'm trying. 

1.A Beach Cottage // 2. COCOCOZY // 3. Decor Arts Now // 4. iDesignArch

Routines

homesweethome

As I settle into a new writing gig, I am determined more than ever to get into a good groove. Not just an efficient work space, but an organized cleaning schedule, workout routine, meal planning, etc. Of course time management is a fine line; we always want to make room for spontaneity, ministry opportunities, and more importantly: we don't want 'the busy life' to get in the way of rich, creative living. 

That's why I want to be diligent and efficient with my time. I want to work hard in my job so that I produce quality writing. Not just to write well, but for the Glory of God. I want to plan well so that I have more time to be in community, to be in ministry. I want to separate work and life so that I can spend rich evenings with my husband. I want to make a schedule and hold myself accountable to doing and learning things that stretch and grow me: sewing, reading, biking, writing... cultivating relationships. I don't want to let go of hobbies because I'm too tired or I don't make the best use of my time. I want to be a good steward of God's money. What does all of this look like? And how can organization and solid routines keep us open to opportunity and creativity? I'm looking for that balance, or rather I should say, everything to be centered around my King Jesus. Because when I strive to make my life balanced, I end up compartmentalizing my life and my faith. No more of that, am I right? 

Anyway, here are a few internet finds that I am excited to make/implement in my life. I'm sure some will work better than others, but maybe you will find them helpful in making the best use of your time. Also, if you have any tips on creating routines or organization methods, let me know in the comments!

How to shop and cook frugally

Cut your spending by $400 a month

12 Beginner Tutorials for Photoshop

33 Meticulous Cleaning Tips

No-Equipment Workout

How to become an early riser

Organize your life

What's your morning routine?

Routines are not the enemy

Speaking of routines, I found this interesting blog about the daily routines of famous writers. If you're a writer, you'll enjoy reading this.