The final act...

So it is the last day of the challenge and we will be doing our closing ceremony at 4 pm today.  I want to thank you for all the support and reading all our blogs.  As I sit at work in the midst of getting ready for Hockey Day in Canada and I start to reflect on these past 5 days (I need to do this now before I have hockey brain).
The first thing that comes to mind is this was a challenge for only 5 days!!  This is a daily challenge for most people.  They are not going to wake up tomorrow and be like "phew, glad that is over".  I have feeling of guilt that I am excited to get back to my routine and my budget and not have some of these restrictions while others do not get to do this.  There are people in our community that struggle daily to get food on the table, to find shelter, to keep their shelter, keep their clothes clean, keep warm, shower, transportation and even a clean pair of warm socks.  I think the misconception that a lot of us have is that if someone is living in poverty that they are homeless.  This is not the case.  There are people who have a place to stay and manage with the budget that the 4 of us did in the 5 days.  Fortunately our community does have these wonderful resources and people who donate their time to help out the people in need.  I know I am definitely going to be volunteering and doing everything I can to help.  Please check out Megan's blog on ways you can help!
I never had the opportunity to catch the bus to and from work.  I could not imagine walking to work and home after a long day.  I ate my entire budget and in all reality probably went over the $55 as it was quite difficult to keep within this.  It was very hard to keep a healthy eating pattern and I can see why someone would buy unhealthy food vs. fruit and veggies.  I did not partake in my normal social outings and felt very secluded in Keewatin.  Luckily I had the social experience when I went to the Fellowship Centre and Jubilee Church.  It was quite uplifting to have conversations with people and smile and laugh.  And as I said, all people really want to do is have a conversation, a simple hello can make a person's day.
I have mixed feelings about ending this poverty challenge.  I would encourage people to sit back and look at what they have and think what they would do if it was taken away.  How will you keep your spirits up?  How would you feel asking for help?  I think there are many people that this challenge would open their eyes.  So many of us walk around with our heads down, avoiding eye contact, avoiding the reality of so many.
Donate, say hello, volunteer - let's do something! 
Cheers 

Now accepting coffee....

Well readers, day 4 is at an end. First off Happy Valentines Day.  I made it through the full day without chocolate and coffee!!  After yesterday's emotional day I woke up this morning ready to tackle the day.  I really wish I could of had an amazing experience or helpful knowledge to give to you today but I have nothing.  I had a crazy day at work and completely forgot about lunch and worked late.  I did day dream about coffee all day....

My challenge card of the day was "The OW requires you to do one hour of volunteering.  You must complete this by the end of the challenge".  I saw this and had some panic set in.  As some of you know Hockey Day in Canaad is starting this week and I am in the midst of helping out.  I thought,  where am I going to find the time to do this?  This was upsetting because this is suppose to be such a rewarding challenge to have.  Giving  back,  helping out,  it is something we should all take the time to do.  I may not of completed this challenge card today but I do plan on volunteering and helping out at one of the amazing places the girls and I went to.

I left worked and went to no frills to get
myself a valentine frozen pizza for $2.97.

I have been having a lot of discussion  with people who comment on the blog and I am happy it is making people think and take the time to look at the things they have.

Day 4 - Code Red....

Day 4 and what an emotional day it has been!!!  This challenge is catching up to me and today was proof.  There is no blaming my allergies on this one but I am in a fragile state.  I did not realize taking away my routine, food preferences and transportation would have this much of an affect on me.  But it definitely has.  Good thing hugs are free!!!

I was planning on taking the bus this morning so I can tell everyone about my experience.  As I sat at home looking at the schedule, it felt like I was looking at the DaVinci Code.  I could not figure out the times or where I would be dropped off for that fact.  I use to take the bus in Winnipeg and truly loved a bus ride where I got to listen to my music stare out my window and watch the world.  I never found their schedule too difficult and Winnipeg is much larger then Kenora...how can I not figure this out?!?!  All in all I woke up late and had to drive!  I could not imagine walking today as I am still physically and emotionally exhausted from the weekend.

Starting back at work on Monday without my routine and for unforeseen circumstances I could not handle my emotions this day. 

My challenge of the day, "Bank charges $3.00".  Shoot!! I spent my $3.00 winnings on coffee on day 1.  It did not even cross my mind to save it, all I thought was woohoo $3.00, that's nothing!!  Well today it is something.  Here is my budget as of late:

Food: $33.75
Transportation: $4.00
Socks/snack: $7.76
Bank Charges: $3.00
Remainder of Budget: $6.49 (realistically I probably wouldn't even have this as I did not take an account the things I already have in my home, cleaning supplies, bathrooms supplies, etc.)
I did not take an account of my phone but I guarantee I would probably not have it on at this point.

16,327 steps and a new playlist

Well Day 3 is coming to an end and I cannot get off my couch....

To complete my challenge I did not have socks or a bus ride to town.  So I sat at home and debated what I can make into socks.  I thought about wearing socks and just blogging about it but I wanted to give it a shot.  I put my thinking cap on and wrapped my feet in tea towels and shoved them into my shoes.  One blister later I made it to town.  Luckily, it was such a beautiful day outside and the sun was shining down on me.  I went to the Bargain shop and found a pack of 6 socks for $3.99 and I have never been happier to put socks on my feet.  I really think socks are an oversight and people do not realize how important they are.  If you are ever out buying some socks, pick up an extra pack and donate it.  No one likes having wet feet...

 
 



Walking through town I could not believe how quiet it was on such a beautiful day.  I shortly found the reason because there was not very much open.  I was hoping to stop by at the library on the way home and pick up a book and dvd for the evening but also forgot this place was closed on Sunday.

The girls and I met at the Jubilee Church to catch the end of mass.  I looked around and saw some familiar faces from mine and Kirsi's time at the Fellowship Centre the day before.  We helped with the set up for lunch and chatted to Pastor Frank and his wife.  I cannot stress how much love these two have for our community and ALL that are in it.  They welcome everyone with open arms and a smile.

We sat down and had some warm food.  I sat there and looked around and what I saw were conversations, smiles and laughter.  It was such a welcoming environment.  It was nice to hear some stories and make connections.  Please stop by the Jubilee Church, say hello and drop off a donation either clothes that you just don't wear anymore or socks, hats, scarves, etc.

On my walk home I thought, this isn't so bad.  I had some sustenance in my belly, the sun is shinning and Sam suggested a new band for me to listen to on my way home.  It was about 20 mins in my walk and my pace started to slow down, my legs were not picking up and all I wanted was a bench to sit on.  I got home with a sunburnt face and am ready for bed.

On my walk I ran into my friend and her daughter (who is cute as a button).  I was trying to explain to her why I did not have socks on and what I was doing.  What she said to me was " I hope you find a 4 leaf clover".  I hope everyone can find their 4 leaf clover!!!!



Socks or no socks that is the question...

Day 3 challenge... "You do not have any socks.  The choice is yours".

Well this was not a tough choice...I just won't leave the house today (this was my first thought).  Then I realized that there are people out there that do not have socks to choose from each day.  Such a small item to not even think about.  I do have a bit of my savings left and thought I would bundle up and walk to town.  I could take my car but if the busses do not run today then either does my car!  As much as I love Keewatin and my neighborhood it is starting to be my biggest challenge so far.  I should of known, even my friends say it is too far to visit sometimes haha.

The girls and I are going to meet at the Jubilee Church for some lunch and then I will make my way home.  One of my teammates had a rewarding challenge card drawn today and wanted to share it with the group.  I sadly cannot partake as I do not want to walk home late and do not have the funds for a taxi.

Well I am off to go put on my layers and experience the day.  Here is a sock joke to get you through the day till my next blog..

Who is the most famous footwear philosopher? Sockrates 

11,978 steps and counting

It is the end of my day 2 and I am exhausted on all fronts.  As you read in the previous blog that I decided to walk to town.  As much as I loved the views on my walk, my calves were burning up every hill.  It took me an hour to get to town and once I hit the green belt at the harbourfront the wind from the lake gave me a chill.  I realized on this walk I did not adequately prepare and bring water or Kleenex.  Luckily we have our wonderful library that I stopped to blow my nose.  I gazed around the library and if I did not have places to be I may of stayed and picked a book up with pictures ;)

I met my other fellow teammate Kirsi at the Kenora Fellowship Centre for a cup of coffee.  Too be truthful I was way out of my element and did not know what to expect when entering.  We were greeted with welcoming smiles and curious eyes.  I grabbed my coffee and Kirsi and I began some amazing conversations with the people that were there.  Check our Kirsi's blog for her experience.

I figured since I was in town I might as well go visit my old roommates (my parents).  My parents are doing everything they can to support me during this - even trying not to eat indulging meals infront of me (thankfully as I was getting hangry).  Once I sat down at their house the exhaustion kicked in.  All I wanted to do was go home and lay down and warm up.  I checked the bus schedule and it just did not mash with my wanting to go home.  And I really think that's the key word....wanting vs. needing.

I did cave and spend $2 on a ride home from my dad.  On our way back to Keewatin I stopped at Jubilee Church and dropped off my scarves and toques.  I always have trouble parting with my belongings but today I did not feel that.  It felt good - I suggest you all donate things you have an excessive of or do not need.

This evening I pulled out a selection of DVD's as I am going to stay away from using my internet to watch Netflix.  I made pasta with meat sauce to feed me for the next 2 days or to freeze for a later time.

So in the end my legs are throbbing,  I missed lunch and I am ready for bed.  Busses do not run on Sundays so I am either walking again or staying at home.  Keewatin does not have a lot to offer compared to what is in Kenora.

An act of kindness

Well it is Day 2 and I actually did a lot of reflecting when I went to bed.  I kept replaying a lot of the conversations I had yesterday.  I think a  lot of people were not only confused why I would take on this challenge but also what is the point.  I was always aware of poverty within our community.  We see it all the time.  I also seen poverty through my family and heard of their experiences and struggles.  I came into this challenge knowing of my position and what I have.  In my job title it says I am a "Community Liaison".  I love my community.  I love the people that live in it.  The people that help out.  All people that are a part of it.  I am doing this for the community.  To give recognition to those who help.  To give awareness to those who take things for granted when it can be taken away so fast.  To those who have know where else to turn. 

With that being said I drew my challenge card today and it said..."Pay some kindness to someone today".  I was happy to see this card.  I want to stay true to my budget and try not to physically pay but offer.  I think it is the gesture that is truly appreciated.  With the weather we have been having I decided to dig through all my hats and scarves and I am bringing them to town to give out.  Now, I am lucky as I have a mom who loves to knit and I have an endless supply of scarves...sorry mom but it is for a good cause.

I planned out my morning and looked at ways to get to town.  I live in Keewatin were things are not necessarily close to me.  I checked the bus schedule as I wanted to join my teammates for a pancake breakfast at the Jubilee church.  We were going to meet at 8:30 am.  And unfortunately I could not make it as the bus does not leave Keewatin till 9:15 am.  A taxi would cost be at least $15 or more and I just was not up to walking that early in the morning.  This is a challenge and hurdle that most people have to face.  I also am a very impatient person and cannot wait to catch the 12:45 pm bus so I am walking to town.  I will need to get on the bus at 5:45 pm if I want to make it home before they stop running.  And I will NEED to pack snacks for this journey...Hangry is a true problem.

Let's see where this day takes me.  Don't forget to spread your act of kindness everyday :)

Thank you but no thank you..

So as day 1 approaches its end I am going to share what exactly happened today.
My challenge card today read:
"Your friend treats you to bingo and won!  You wont $100....but you borrowed $90 from the friend last week and it cost $7.00 to play.  You only take home $3.00.  Borrowed money and lottery winnings are to be reported to OW".
Now I read this and thought - I have a meeting at Hojoe's this morning that $3 is my coffee.  I also thought to not call Ontario Works and keep this winning (which in the end it did not seem to be a winning) to myself.  I was worried if I called I would have a set back to my expenses.  My conscience got the best of me and I called.  To my surprise, only winnings over $1000 are really needed to call OW.  Anything under will not affect your pay.  Phew....because I spent that $3 on a green tropical tea!

I think my biggest surprise and soon to be challenge are all the helping hands I am receiving from friends, coworkers and family.  My dad started making a casserole today because he does not want me to starve and only eat alphaghetti.  Don't worry dad, I bought some sustainable food today.  But I found whenever I talked about this I had people offering rides, to buy me coffee to make me food.  And as much I wanted to say yes to everything, I also wanted to stay true to the challenge. 

Another response I received when people heard about this is "I could never do that".  My mom lived in poverty with her single mother and two sister growing up.  She told me that her goal was to go to university and to not live in poverty.  It was not an easy childhood for her and she realizes that poverty could happen again.  She is proud I am taking this challenge and in her words "you are entitled and need this".  The support is real! 

So today I went and bought my groceries and spent $33 out of my $55.  I even splurged and bought ground beef to make some pasta sauce to last me a few days.  I also used $2 to use my vehicle to the store.  I even scored some popcorn that was going to be thrown away from the concession at my work.

I keep thinking ahead and keep asking myself "how am I going to afford this"  "how am I going to do this".  I am taking it day by day and will see what tomorrow's challenge is.

So as my friends go to the legion and play horse races, I opted out to stay home and eat some noodles. 
p.s.  I ran out of soft cat food for my other cat(Merlot)....she is not happy with her hard food while the other(Charlie) gets special food.  Sorry Merlot, you are in this with me!!

What did I get myself into....

Day 1,  here we go!! I am going to start off with some background on my preparation for this experience.  I attempted to prepare my food, transportation and even preparing myself mentally.   The night before I sat in bed and went through flyers and started making a grocery list and then panic set in.  I have a goal to stay on a healthy eating track but then I saw 4 for $5 alphaghettis and I thought that is 4 meals at a reasonable price (but not healthy).  My goal was also to walk to work or take the public transportation.  As I woke up late this morning and rushed I knew there was no way I was getting to work on time so I took my car only to find half way to work I forgot to put my glasses on and had to drive back home.  This would be hurdle #1.

I am going to give you a bit of detail in my daily routine before I start with the actual challenge.  I figure this will give you perspective on the challenges I am about to face.  In the morning,  I snooze my alarm 3 times before showering with costly products and then slowly getting ready.  I have 2 cats and one was recently diagnosed with diabetes!!! Cats get diabetes? !?! So I have to feed her special food and so the other one is not jealous she has her own special food (I know what you are thinking...but these are my fur babies). If I am running late I will stop at Tim Hortons for coffee and breakfast on my drive to work. Some days I will have meetings out of the office so I drive to those,  sometimes I will pick up another coffee or lunch (sometimes I go to my parents house and eat their food as my lunch),  depending on my lazyness in the morning. In the evening I tend to be a home body and relax and cook dinner.  I also give myself the freedom to go out for dinners with friends or to the movies.  I literally spoil myself.

I will definitely be looking at new ways to help me through these challenging days and share them with everyone.  I will also be looking at solutions for my diabetic cat which I could afford.  I am sure there are a lot of people like me that cherish their animals and will do anything for them.

 The prep alone for this challenge opened my eyes.  I hope this challenge gets people to start talking and think to themselves "could I live off of $11 a day?"  I know it is going to be a struggle.