For the Fun of It

I'm learning and embracing the fact that minimalism looks different for everyone.  For example, most people would agree creating a meal plan for a week or more in advance helps keep the cost of groceries to a minimum.  Advanced meal planning was practical for me when life was busy.  It was not, however, exciting.  In this slower pace of life that I am enjoying, I like to find a new recipe every day.  I then go grocery shopping for just that recipe.  It's keeping my cost down because I'm excited to cook.  We stay out of the restaurants because I'm excited to cook and try new things.  I don't waste food because the recipe didn't strike my fancy that day.  I've been a stay at home mom for 20 years.  I'm just now spreading my wings and cooking for the fun of it.

What minimalism looks like will differ depending on the family.  It's not a competition.  Everyone is looking for that which brings them joy.  I have learned joy is not found in my stuff.  I want space for hosting my family and friends.  I do not intend to fill the space with stuff.  I do intend to fill it with love, acceptance, and anything else that supports our mission/goals.

My minimalist journey is going from feeling ashamed as I declutter/deown/decrayify, to feeling free and having fun as I enjoy life.  I'm not only cooking for the fun of it, I'm cleaning for the joy of it.  I'm taking care of myself for the love of it.  It's amazing what this new year is bringing into my life.  I am able to receive all the good because of all that I've let go.  Winning!

Bringing Sexy Back!

Various bloggers & authors continue to inspire me in my journey to minimize.  I went through our kitchen, yet again, and found even more stuff to donate.  I am amazed at what I thought I needed at one time versus what I really use.  There is still an amount of guilt when I evaluate an item.  I get past it much quicker and remind myself how much better and lighter I will feel once it is donated.  I'm also reminded of my choice to focus on self care and building relationships.  There is a snowball effect when I declutter to minimize with a purpose.

Long showers, lotions, and potions - I gave them all up (gladly, I will add) when I became a mom.  Now it's my time again and I'm bringing sexy back.  A bang up capsule wardrobe, perfume I've claimed as my own, along with a skin care regimen that is working wonders are all part of my plan to focus on self care.

My trusty slow cooker has also met its doom as I have challenged myself to find a new recipe each day to cook on the stove top and use my chef skills.  Healthier, new-to-us foods shall be on the menu and purchased locally whenever possible.  The pantry will miss being stuffed, I'm sure, but I've got big plans.  I shall be building relationships with the local farmers at the market asap.

I couldn't focus on myself before because I was overwhelmed with clutter.  I am happy that I have a new plan in the new year and I know everyone I love will benefit.  Winning!