Part of my movement towards simplicity is to use what I have and only replace things when absolutely necessary.
One of the items I am replacing is many of the plastic containers I used for freezing. Lots of them were stained, getting to the point where they were extremely brittle and just getting past the best time to be using them. Now I am not getting rid of them all, I will keep those that are still in good form, but my molds will be used a great deal more and really do make storage a bit simpler.
I will need to replace my 15 year old broom very soon as it is not doing the job it is intended for any longer. I found that out when trying to sweep up the kitty litter. I will hold off on replacing my dirty clothes basket for a bit longer, as it is still functional even though there is a large crack at the top.
Collecting glass and plastic jars to use for storage, mainly so I can reclaim my canning jars.
Simplicity to me also means making the most of what I have. So I am hunting down recipes to use beans, lentils, and peas. All are great sources of protein and can be used instead of meat for that purpose. I seem to have lots of beans in storage for some reason. We will never become totally vegan, but having meals that are vegetarian based will help keep our costs down and is a very simple way to do so.
Simplicity also means knowing what is in my food, so I am cooking more from scratch, using whole ingredients. I don't think I will ever totally remove processed food from the pantry, but by making more with whole ingredients will keep our meals simple and filling.
Repairing, making and just taking the time to slow down and breathe while doing so enables me to have prayer or meditation time. By organizing my day and routine I am finding life moving just a touch slower. That makes me wonder if getting more organized would be even better.... But would that enable me to stop and watch the birds at the feeder as I tidied the hall, or watch the children come home from school when the buses drop them off.
Moving towards simplicity is also helping with the budget. Since I have gotten way more involved in working towards this, I am discovering that staying within or under budget is much easier. No longer worrying about keeping up with the neighbours really does simplify and save money, time and effort.
While our life will never be completely simplified, I am enjoying the journey to where we will actually end up once done. Simplifying has also enabled us to take the trips we do (even though I, in my frugal mindset, sometimes think about replacing the money....).
Everybody have a wonderful, relaxing, and simple evening.
God bless.
I'm totally with you in feeling happier with a simpler life, Jackie. Life will always throw problems our way but I can cope better if I'm less stressed about everything. Good food and a life where possessions don't matter is helping.
ReplyDeleteYou are making great strides forward in your own journey . Very well done 👍
Angie
It is amazing that those little things become a habit and so much easier to do without stressing.
ReplyDeleteVery good points and you sound happy with the direction and steps you are taking.
ReplyDeleteDear Jackie, I use a squeegee for sweeping. I bought a pole, and a squeegee at Dollarama and it works better than a broom. I still use a broom and dustpan, but only for picking the dirt up and putting it in the garbage.
ReplyDeleteGood for you, Jackie. You're doing great.
ReplyDeleteHave you heard of 'A pinch of nom' cookery books, they use lots of beans and pulses.
ReplyDeleteJackie, I used to have a recipe on my blog for Moosewood’s Gentle Lentil soup. It’s quick and easy to make and delicious. I did a quick Google search and there are recipes out there in other places too. Maybe an idea for you. Have a good, simple, weekend.
ReplyDeleteJackie, I’ve often found the old version of the Hillbilly Housewife website to have some really good, basic, low cost recipes for brand and lentils. Here is a link if you’re interested.
ReplyDeletehttps://web.archive.org/web/20060207040422/http://www.hillbillyhousewife.com/index.htm
Belinda
I like your approach to simplicity Jackie. You are making changes over time to aid in your goals, but recognizing that life is to be enjoyed as well.
ReplyDeleteI'm sure it must be hard not to try to replace money spent, when you've taken the time and effort to save it up. I'm sure I'd be the same.
ReplyDeleteI also enjoy the thinking part and working on using up what I have and these basic foods that are the cheapest these days. They are also healthy for us. I've learned to like chick peas too and they work well in so many recipes. Still winter here and with piles of snow too.
ReplyDelete