I think I have some of the most resourceful readers out there. When looking at these $20/$20 Challenge submissions, I’m constantly in awe at how you guys are using your space. Lisa doesn’t let a small storage space slow her down. Here’s her story:
Hi Mavis!
You might remember me from the trash to treasure vintage dress feature I submitted … you may or may not have made a little fun of my amazing finds {Tupperware?}. Ha!
Anyway, here I am submitting again as a part of the small space living community. I’m Lisa and my husband, 4 year old daughter, and I live just south of Kansas City in a 600 sq ft town home. We have another 300 sq ft in the basement that we used for laundry and storage which is helpful, but I’ve been on a mission to live well in our space. Did I mention it was built in the 1970s? It’s definitely not designed for small space or minimalist living … but we are doing our best on a budget.
When we moved in, the fact that our new, old rental had a coat closet, linen closet, and pantry was a great sell. I still love having a pantry {as non-Pinterest worthy as it is} because there is no room for food in the kitchen cupboards. My kitchen is tiny!!The pantry is directly across from our basement door {I had to walk down the stairs to get a full photo of all 5 shelves}. It’s looking a bit Mother Hubbard, but I meal plan and shop once a week – so that’s actually pretty normal.
Top shelf: large pots, crock pot, griddle, blender
2nd: baking shelf = flour, sugar, cake mixes, oatmeal, dried fruit, baking chips
3rd: spices, dried beans, rice, canned veggies/fruits, peanut butter
4th: pasta, cereal, crackers, misc snacks
5th: awkward baking pans
Bottom: recycling bin
We added the lowest shelf when we moved in and I recently purchased a recycling bin that fits the space perfectly.
If I were to feature a shelf, it would most definitely be my baking shelf. Against my better health judgement, I ADORE baking and the promptly eating those baked goodies – especially if they include sugar and butter. 😉 I don’t actually bake as much as I used to, but my baking shelf is still stocked from the holiday sales. It makes me happy.
I generally shop sales and then buy organic per the Dirty Dozen/Clean 15 list. I try to use minimally processed food {thus, we only need 3 shelves for packaged foods}.
I often freeze meat and vegetables. 
My father-in-law raises chickens and turkeys, so there are two 30lb birds hanging out in my chest freezer downstairs at the moment. He also has a beautiful garden and taps maple trees every year, so we have tons of organic and fresh foods to eat. #blessedThanks for letting me share, Mavis!
Cheers!
Lisa
Are you getting your pantries camera ready? You can participate in the $20/$20 Challenge by simply sending in pictures of your pantry. Find out more about the $20/$20 Challenge: Show Your Pantry – Fill a Pantry!
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Madam Chow says
She is so cute! Love that dress on her!
Mavis says
Thrift store finds I tell ya!
Linda says
Lisa’s smart use of space is inspiring! Lucky Lisa, having free access to fresh turkeys, chickens and maple syrup!
Vanessa says
Awesome! I love to see people living frugally. Lovely dress! Also, I think that turkey is the biggest I’ve ever seen!
Lacy says
Lisa, I live south of Kansas City too! I love your vintage dress!
Crystal says
Lots of us must live just south of KC! Good job!