I was actually a little surprised to find that some people are harshly against the whole Compact movement. This article gives a little more information about the attention that this has been getting: http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/16259064/
I can see how it might effect the economy if more people started living this way, but the fact is, that many people don't want to live this way. It does floor me how funny people are about this though. And what about those people who have no money, nor any other choice but to live most of their lives this way because they have no money?
The point is, these people living this way, are living like this because it makes them feel good about themselves, and they are living consciously. Like I said, I don't know if I could honestly live that way for an entire year. Shopping second hand can be a headache for me. BUT - I can (and have) joined a freecycle group (if just to pass stuff on to someone who can really use it). I can recycle my leftovers to compost, my cardboard, glass, etc. And I can take steps that I personally feel are making a difference in my life.
It's gotten me thinking about how we easily jump to judge others, because we feel we know what is best for them. Fact is, and we need to face it, unless you are in that person's shoes, walking their walk - you've really no right to pass judgement. Hmmm... a good topic for another post, me thinks.
Edited to add: Besides, what's going to happen to the economy if suddenly, everyone had to pay off all that credit card debt? Hmmm...
Showing posts with label frugalness. Show all posts
Showing posts with label frugalness. Show all posts
Monday, December 18, 2006
Thursday, November 30, 2006
Freedom
Lately, I've been aware of a tendency of mine to trap myself in a box, and forget that at anytime, I can just open the lid and crawl out, or, even better, open the door and walk out.
There've been two aspects of my life recently, where I've done this as of late, and finally, the other day, thanks to the darling advice of a friend who told me, "Grace, you don't have to do any of this", I was free.
She was right. We don't have to move. (This being the bigger of the two.) We can still look, but we don't have to MOVE. We can make do where we are, and in the process save money, spend wisely, and maybe even pay off the house.
Wow. What a concept. Right in line with The Compact I'd mentioned previously. Which has influenced us actually.
Last night, while hubby fought off his NyQuil-ed state long enough for our nightly chats (which haven't been happening due to late bedtimes and NyQuil-ed induced sleeps), we were discussing the "break" that we were taking regarding two big decisions in our lives. One being moving...
Though we've decided to still look at houses, I must admit, that part of me just wants to let it go completely, and focus on paying off the house we now live in and save up money.
As I drifted off to sleep, I found myself thinking of things that I'd want to do with the current house: I planned where I could plant a raised veggie garden, but then it might be best to fence in the backyard with all the cats round here (and deer), which would decrease the light; add steps to the back deck; get a tool shed to hold the mower, lawn, gardening and snow stuff; clear out the dead bush and shrubs in the back - maybe a small tool shed could go there; go through our stuff to see what we really need, and what we can give away or get rid of to create more space... My mind was active, very active.
But it felt good to think of these things, because for the last 6 months, I'd been thinking along the lines of - can't do that until we move, better not get that, until we move, that's on hold... until we move. I'd gotten stuck in stagnation.
I did mention how good I can be at creating little boxes in which to shut myself, didn't I?
So now, I'm feeling much better and lighter. Hubby and I still have things to talk about and discuss, but I've freed myself to be more present now. I don't know where things are going, or what will happen, which is good, as I fretted over things that hadn't happened and put things on hold until they did.
Thank goodness for friends who can let you know, that you just don't have to!
There've been two aspects of my life recently, where I've done this as of late, and finally, the other day, thanks to the darling advice of a friend who told me, "Grace, you don't have to do any of this", I was free.
She was right. We don't have to move. (This being the bigger of the two.) We can still look, but we don't have to MOVE. We can make do where we are, and in the process save money, spend wisely, and maybe even pay off the house.
Wow. What a concept. Right in line with The Compact I'd mentioned previously. Which has influenced us actually.
Last night, while hubby fought off his NyQuil-ed state long enough for our nightly chats (which haven't been happening due to late bedtimes and NyQuil-ed induced sleeps), we were discussing the "break" that we were taking regarding two big decisions in our lives. One being moving...
Though we've decided to still look at houses, I must admit, that part of me just wants to let it go completely, and focus on paying off the house we now live in and save up money.
As I drifted off to sleep, I found myself thinking of things that I'd want to do with the current house: I planned where I could plant a raised veggie garden, but then it might be best to fence in the backyard with all the cats round here (and deer), which would decrease the light; add steps to the back deck; get a tool shed to hold the mower, lawn, gardening and snow stuff; clear out the dead bush and shrubs in the back - maybe a small tool shed could go there; go through our stuff to see what we really need, and what we can give away or get rid of to create more space... My mind was active, very active.
But it felt good to think of these things, because for the last 6 months, I'd been thinking along the lines of - can't do that until we move, better not get that, until we move, that's on hold... until we move. I'd gotten stuck in stagnation.
I did mention how good I can be at creating little boxes in which to shut myself, didn't I?
So now, I'm feeling much better and lighter. Hubby and I still have things to talk about and discuss, but I've freed myself to be more present now. I don't know where things are going, or what will happen, which is good, as I fretted over things that hadn't happened and put things on hold until they did.
Thank goodness for friends who can let you know, that you just don't have to!
Tuesday, November 28, 2006
Compact Challenge
Recently I've stumbled upon this blog: Walk Slowly, Live Wildy. It's been very inspirational on many levels. Aside from her lovely pics, she's also created a Compact Pledge, and has been journaling about it and how they sold their home, moved to a 1-bedroom apartment, and have been living more consciously to pay off their debt. The Compact has on some level been resonating with me. There's even a blog here entirely about it, with contact information to groups you can join.
It reminded me a lot of the book written by Judith Levine Not Buying It My Year Without Shopping, which, I've been very curious to read, but haven't yet. (It's on my list of books to get at the library, when I actually get to the library. Don't ask.)
Now, I know that if I decided to Compact, that I could. I obviously haven't, but I've been playing around with the entire idea. Hey, I also occasionally check in and read The Simple Living NetWork Newsletter. It's also gotten me thinking about several things.
One of the things on my mind has been whether or not we should stay in the house we are in now, or keep trying to move. Right now, we've got a mortgage less then most apartments around here. Living here, we are able to save more money then we've ever had, and we've paid off my school loans.
Our reasons for moving are mostly that we would like more land for Pook to play about on, neighbors that are a bit further away, and a bigger home so that we can expand on our family. But are these valid reasons? If we really wanted too, we could easily add another room and bathroom in the basement. Thus solving the more room issue.
As for the acreage, there's a park right down the road that I discovered. The Post Office can be walked to as well. And, we are blessed with friends who live on farms and acreage. I would still love for Pook to be able to be free to run around on her own land, but we can make do if need be.
Do we really need all the things we've been buying? Come Christmas time, we tend to go a wee bit crazy in that we buy a lot of things. And we tend to go overboard with gifts. This year, I've done better on the gift thing. I think I mentioned www.heifer.org before and the baking. I'm finding much more satisfaction in homemade gifts.
I've also noticed, that I've a unique knack for validating things I want. From books, to hand towels, if I want it, I can find a reason. So, I've decided to make a list of what else I would want for the house, and decide - do I really need it? Can I do without it? Why do I want it in the first place?
And then too, I have come to realize how blessed we are to live in a society and place where you can get virtually anything you want via internet and the like. And then I wonder - but are we responsible with our consumerism? Do we need to be?
In any case, I'm still pondering on this. It's clearly touched something in me. How about you?
It reminded me a lot of the book written by Judith Levine Not Buying It My Year Without Shopping, which, I've been very curious to read, but haven't yet. (It's on my list of books to get at the library, when I actually get to the library. Don't ask.)
Now, I know that if I decided to Compact, that I could. I obviously haven't, but I've been playing around with the entire idea. Hey, I also occasionally check in and read The Simple Living NetWork Newsletter. It's also gotten me thinking about several things.
One of the things on my mind has been whether or not we should stay in the house we are in now, or keep trying to move. Right now, we've got a mortgage less then most apartments around here. Living here, we are able to save more money then we've ever had, and we've paid off my school loans.
Our reasons for moving are mostly that we would like more land for Pook to play about on, neighbors that are a bit further away, and a bigger home so that we can expand on our family. But are these valid reasons? If we really wanted too, we could easily add another room and bathroom in the basement. Thus solving the more room issue.
As for the acreage, there's a park right down the road that I discovered. The Post Office can be walked to as well. And, we are blessed with friends who live on farms and acreage. I would still love for Pook to be able to be free to run around on her own land, but we can make do if need be.
Do we really need all the things we've been buying? Come Christmas time, we tend to go a wee bit crazy in that we buy a lot of things. And we tend to go overboard with gifts. This year, I've done better on the gift thing. I think I mentioned www.heifer.org before and the baking. I'm finding much more satisfaction in homemade gifts.
I've also noticed, that I've a unique knack for validating things I want. From books, to hand towels, if I want it, I can find a reason. So, I've decided to make a list of what else I would want for the house, and decide - do I really need it? Can I do without it? Why do I want it in the first place?
And then too, I have come to realize how blessed we are to live in a society and place where you can get virtually anything you want via internet and the like. And then I wonder - but are we responsible with our consumerism? Do we need to be?
In any case, I'm still pondering on this. It's clearly touched something in me. How about you?
Tuesday, October 31, 2006
Holidays over the years
After responding to Stacie's comment on my last post, I got to thinking about how I used to percieve and celebrate Christmas (and general holidays) versus how I celebrate them now.
For one thing, I'd stock up on sales and gifts throughout the year. Then, I'd forget about said gifts when it came time for the holiday, only to find it a week later when restocking on more things I got on sale for the next year. Mind you, some of these things I just bought on sale, regardless of whether or not the gift recipient might like them. And did I mention, I'd give some sort of gift to every friend or acquaintence I knew?
Then, I'd always think that I needed to add to my decor every year. You know, build it up. Regardless of whether or not I had too much stuff, or if I needed it or not.
When we got married, and my sweet hubby counted that I was planning on getting and giving over 60 some gifts to people, he gave me this "we need to talk" look. We then had a really long talk. I'm blessed with a wonderful hubby, who really gets me to think about things. (And visa versa I hope...) Was it really necessary to give to all these people? (Some of whom I hadn't seen in ages, or years.) Were these people going to appreciate the gifts I'd gotten, or would then end up regifted or given away? Did I have the time to put these things together? Etc. Etc.
The first year, we bought a tree (hub's allergic to the real deal), our own beautiful angel to top it, stockings to hang, and a few greens and things to go around the house. We'd owned our own house now, so there was more to decorate. However, I also inherited an entire box of ornaments, knick-knacks, and other things from my mom's house when we moved.
We put out all the decorations. The next year, there we still decorations in the box, yet, I'd managed to buy more. Thankfully, the gift list had been cut in half, and after calculating how much we had spent for everything, I began to cut it it down again for the next year.
Now, five years later, we have all the decor we need. (Although, there are always a few things I keep on the lookout for - like embroidered hand towels for the kitchen and bath.) We only exchange gifts with immediate family, and a few friends (as opposed to all), and have made other agreements with friends. (Instead of a physical gift, we just get together to spend time together.) Some people get baked goods, some get bought goods, and this year, I'm excited because we're giving a gift that keeps giving to others http://www.heifer.org/ .
I also really think about the gifts I want to give. This has been most prevalent in the last year or so. I try to keep them clutter free (unless it's something I'm sure they'll like and use or keep). If I'm baking, I'll do a bread for some, and I do have special cookie requests I give into each year. I also try to get all gifts ordered and taken care of by early November.
The day after Thanksgiving, the Christmas decor goes up, so I like to be finished with most stuff by then so that we can just kick back and enjoy December. Though I used to enjoy waiting until the mauls... er malls... we decorated in their seasonal glory, now, it's nice to just go and enjoy, without rushing around madly to find certain things.
Sometimes I wonder how my changes will effect our children. I hope in a good way. I learned my habits from my mom, and with the help of my beloved hubby, I've found what works best for me, and for us.
So, hubby, thank you. Thank you for being you, and thank you for encouraging me to be me, and helping me find the simplicity I've been seeking. Granted, I know there are times you'd rather not do gifts at all, but I also know that you know how important it is for me to give something during this time.
For one thing, I'd stock up on sales and gifts throughout the year. Then, I'd forget about said gifts when it came time for the holiday, only to find it a week later when restocking on more things I got on sale for the next year. Mind you, some of these things I just bought on sale, regardless of whether or not the gift recipient might like them. And did I mention, I'd give some sort of gift to every friend or acquaintence I knew?
Then, I'd always think that I needed to add to my decor every year. You know, build it up. Regardless of whether or not I had too much stuff, or if I needed it or not.
When we got married, and my sweet hubby counted that I was planning on getting and giving over 60 some gifts to people, he gave me this "we need to talk" look. We then had a really long talk. I'm blessed with a wonderful hubby, who really gets me to think about things. (And visa versa I hope...) Was it really necessary to give to all these people? (Some of whom I hadn't seen in ages, or years.) Were these people going to appreciate the gifts I'd gotten, or would then end up regifted or given away? Did I have the time to put these things together? Etc. Etc.
The first year, we bought a tree (hub's allergic to the real deal), our own beautiful angel to top it, stockings to hang, and a few greens and things to go around the house. We'd owned our own house now, so there was more to decorate. However, I also inherited an entire box of ornaments, knick-knacks, and other things from my mom's house when we moved.
We put out all the decorations. The next year, there we still decorations in the box, yet, I'd managed to buy more. Thankfully, the gift list had been cut in half, and after calculating how much we had spent for everything, I began to cut it it down again for the next year.
Now, five years later, we have all the decor we need. (Although, there are always a few things I keep on the lookout for - like embroidered hand towels for the kitchen and bath.) We only exchange gifts with immediate family, and a few friends (as opposed to all), and have made other agreements with friends. (Instead of a physical gift, we just get together to spend time together.) Some people get baked goods, some get bought goods, and this year, I'm excited because we're giving a gift that keeps giving to others http://www.heifer.org/ .
I also really think about the gifts I want to give. This has been most prevalent in the last year or so. I try to keep them clutter free (unless it's something I'm sure they'll like and use or keep). If I'm baking, I'll do a bread for some, and I do have special cookie requests I give into each year. I also try to get all gifts ordered and taken care of by early November.
The day after Thanksgiving, the Christmas decor goes up, so I like to be finished with most stuff by then so that we can just kick back and enjoy December. Though I used to enjoy waiting until the mauls... er malls... we decorated in their seasonal glory, now, it's nice to just go and enjoy, without rushing around madly to find certain things.
Sometimes I wonder how my changes will effect our children. I hope in a good way. I learned my habits from my mom, and with the help of my beloved hubby, I've found what works best for me, and for us.
So, hubby, thank you. Thank you for being you, and thank you for encouraging me to be me, and helping me find the simplicity I've been seeking. Granted, I know there are times you'd rather not do gifts at all, but I also know that you know how important it is for me to give something during this time.
Monday, October 30, 2006
Tis a Gift to be Simple
It's been a hectic, but fun weekend. I am excited about Christmas this year, as we've seriously cut down on giftgiving, and found some neat gifts to give instead. For those of you who are just joining in, we are in the midst of house hunting, and saving. Thus, we are on a budget.
By mutual agreement, with are not exchanging gifts with the BILs, my SIL, and the SO. We are giving gifts to my sweet nephew though. And, I've been stocking his up for some time I admit. And, I didn't realize just how relaxing it is, as I don't have to worry about what to get anymore. It helps too, that we are all saving money at the moment.
I admit, we've already gone a bit off budget, when I found the Pook a doll house for Christmas, that was over budget, but at 50% off for the house and furniture, irresistable. Plus, I could just see in my head how I wanted to present it to her.
I am really excited about my latest discovery though: http://www.heifer.org/. You can check out the site to find out more about it.
This site has solved many things for me. I now have a gift for the people who have everything, and I feel that I'm doing something good with my gift. Plus, I like knowing that in someway, I'm making a contribution to someone who can really use it, in the name of another. Plus, it's just cool to donate honey-bees, chickens, or a llama. :)
For the lucky ones in our family, we'll be baking them mini loaves of gingerbread, zuchini bread, banana nut bread, and pumpkin bread. Complete with recipes. The breads are healthier then cookies, and for sweet grandmas who no longer can cook homeade things, a real treat. (Apparently, Dad's like them too!)
I want to teach Pook the importance behind the gift, not the gift itself. I've been craving simplicity (usually happens after a few weeks of choas), and last year was rather stressful figuring stuff out. This year, we are buying a few things, but, they are clutter free, something wanted, or things I'd picked up throughout the year.
This will be the last year, for a while, when we try to make it back for Christmas. And, I'm looking forward to Christmas at home for a change. I love seeing and spending time with the family, but, the Santa myth really looses something. Not that we've really done anything to encourage that myth...
On the homeschooling front, I'm really excited, because a friend of mine and I decided to start our own little support group. There are quite a few coops in the area, and I have connections, but to meet every week has been challenging with the other activities. So, we've decided on once a month; however, it might be twice a month. I'm also going to sign up for one of the field trips groups as well.
I am just so psyched about the whole process. I'm looking forward to learning with her, starting a nature journal, creating projects... I have decided, that if she ever decides she wants to attend regular school, she'll have that choice. However, most of the kids I know that are homeschooled love the freedom and choices they have.
So, today, I'm just filled with that sense of wonder and contentment. I've gotten confirmation I'm on the right path with Pook, and things are again falling into place.
By mutual agreement, with are not exchanging gifts with the BILs, my SIL, and the SO. We are giving gifts to my sweet nephew though. And, I've been stocking his up for some time I admit. And, I didn't realize just how relaxing it is, as I don't have to worry about what to get anymore. It helps too, that we are all saving money at the moment.
I admit, we've already gone a bit off budget, when I found the Pook a doll house for Christmas, that was over budget, but at 50% off for the house and furniture, irresistable. Plus, I could just see in my head how I wanted to present it to her.
I am really excited about my latest discovery though: http://www.heifer.org/. You can check out the site to find out more about it.
This site has solved many things for me. I now have a gift for the people who have everything, and I feel that I'm doing something good with my gift. Plus, I like knowing that in someway, I'm making a contribution to someone who can really use it, in the name of another. Plus, it's just cool to donate honey-bees, chickens, or a llama. :)
For the lucky ones in our family, we'll be baking them mini loaves of gingerbread, zuchini bread, banana nut bread, and pumpkin bread. Complete with recipes. The breads are healthier then cookies, and for sweet grandmas who no longer can cook homeade things, a real treat. (Apparently, Dad's like them too!)
I want to teach Pook the importance behind the gift, not the gift itself. I've been craving simplicity (usually happens after a few weeks of choas), and last year was rather stressful figuring stuff out. This year, we are buying a few things, but, they are clutter free, something wanted, or things I'd picked up throughout the year.
This will be the last year, for a while, when we try to make it back for Christmas. And, I'm looking forward to Christmas at home for a change. I love seeing and spending time with the family, but, the Santa myth really looses something. Not that we've really done anything to encourage that myth...
On the homeschooling front, I'm really excited, because a friend of mine and I decided to start our own little support group. There are quite a few coops in the area, and I have connections, but to meet every week has been challenging with the other activities. So, we've decided on once a month; however, it might be twice a month. I'm also going to sign up for one of the field trips groups as well.
I am just so psyched about the whole process. I'm looking forward to learning with her, starting a nature journal, creating projects... I have decided, that if she ever decides she wants to attend regular school, she'll have that choice. However, most of the kids I know that are homeschooled love the freedom and choices they have.
So, today, I'm just filled with that sense of wonder and contentment. I've gotten confirmation I'm on the right path with Pook, and things are again falling into place.
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