I’ve also found that having a well-stocked pantry encourages creativity in the kitchen. When you’re working with what you have, you come up with combinations you might never have tried otherwise. Some of my favorite recipes have been born out of a “pantry challenge” on a quiet evening.

Winter in northwestern Ontario is no joke. The temperatures dip well below freezing, the sun makes rare appearances, and it’s prime season for colds, flu, and other pesky illnesses. While bundling up and staying cozy indoors can help, keeping your immune system strong is the best way to fend off winter bugs.

If you’re anything like me, you don’t let good things go to waste—especially something as flavorful and versatile as pickle juice. Whether it’s the brine from homemade pickles or the last bit left in a store-bought jar, I’ve found plenty of creative ways to put it to use.

Life has a funny way of testing us when we least expect it. Just when everything seems to be going right, an obstacle can pop up out of nowhere, threatening to derail our progress and sap our motivation. Staying motivated in the face of these challenges is no easy task—trust me, I’ve been there more times than I care to admit.

Now, I’ll admit—it’s not always easy, but the rewards are worth it. Let me walk you through how to survive and even thrive during a no-spend month, from planning and setting rules to overcoming challenges and celebrating your wins.