Doll Can Create

Living Local: My 100 Mile Life Challenge

(this is not a direct transcript)

Have you ever stopped to think about how far the things you use every day have traveled? From the food on your plate to the clothes in your closet, many of these items have journeyed thousands of miles before reaching you. What if we could change that? What if we could bring it all closer to home?

That’s the inspiration behind my latest adventure: the “100 Mile Life in 100 Days” challenge. Over the next three months, I’ll be focusing on sourcing everything—from food to household goods to wool—within 100 miles of where I live. It’s a journey that’s about much more than just shopping locally. It’s about connecting with my community, reducing my environmental footprint, and uncovering the incredible resources in my own backyard.

Why 100 Miles?

This challenge takes inspiration from the “100 Mile Diet,” a movement that encourages eating locally and sustainably. But I’m expanding the concept beyond just food. By incorporating wool and other locally made goods, I’m embracing the richness of what’s nearby while supporting sustainable practices. Wool is a big focus for me—it’s a chance to connect with local producers and celebrate the artistry of textiles created right here at home.

The Rules of the Challenge

There will be a few rules I’ll set out for myself. If you follow along your rules might be different.

1. Stay Within the 100-Mile Radius: Everything I purchase must come from within this boundary.
2. Allow Necessary Exceptions: Some items, like medicine, may not be available locally, but I’ll aim to minimize these exceptions.
3. Focus on Learning: This isn’t about perfection. It’s about discovering new ways to live more sustainably and sharing what I learn along the way.

What to Expect

Over the next 100 days, I’ll be documenting this journey—the successes, the challenges, and everything in between. From finding local flour for baking to meeting incredible farmers, artisans, and wool producers, there will be no shortage of stories to share. Along the way, I’ll also offer tips and tricks for anyone who wants to try living more locally. Whether it’s sourcing one meal a week from local producers or supporting a nearby wool artisan, even small steps can make a big difference.

Why It Matters

Choosing to live within 100 miles is about more than convenience. It’s a way to:

• Support Local Economies: Every purchase invests in the community and keeps resources circulating locally.
• Reduce Environmental Impact: Local goods often require less transportation, cutting down on greenhouse gas emissions.
• Rediscover Seasonal Living: Eating and living locally means aligning with the rhythm of the seasons, which can be both grounding and fulfilling.

Join Me on This Journey

I’d love for you to follow along or even join in your own way! Whether it’s by exploring local farmers’ markets, trying out regional recipes, or seeking out local wool for your next knitting project, there are countless ways to embrace the 100 Mile Life. Want local wool to spin or use in your crafting? I have a few options for you. Send me a message or check out my Patreon for more information.

Are you ready to explore the richness of what’s right around you? Let’s embark on this adventure together and see how local we can go. Here’s to discovering the beauty of living closer to home!

Enjoy!