Minimalism

Lately I have been very interested in minimalism. I watched the documentary Minimalism: A Documentary and even before this documentary I was interested in a minimalist lifestyle. I also listen to their Podcast and am currently reading their book Everything That Remains: A Memoir. These two men have brought a lot of value to my life by educating me on what a minimalist life can do for me and my family.

Most of you know Andrew and I live in a very small house. It is a slab house (no basement or crawl space), 3 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, and is 864 square feet. We have two children, a dog, and a cat. A lot of people would think "Holy shit! I could never live in a house that small with that many people." But you can. In fact, I've entertained in this house and have done it comfortably because I don't own a lot of STUFF. I've been selling and donating quite a bit of stuff recently too which makes Andrew a little nervous because I am sure he thinks he is going to be next.

I want it to be known that every one's minimalist journey is different. What is minimal to me is not minimal to the next person. Some people are more extreme, while others can find joy with a little more stuff. That is fine! Every person and every journey is different. I have been going through our things since June and so far I can tell you the number one benefit for me from getting rid of stuff.

More time for the important things.

My kids. My husband. ME.

Not having so much stuff means I clean less. Like really. Think about how much you clean and "put things away". I don't really do that anymore because there's not much to be left out in the way. Everything is put away and what isn't takes me seconds to put up. Mostly toys.

Speaking of; kids don't need a ton of toys. I have been monitoring Carson's behavior and that little guy plays with the same 10 toys over and over again. Something new comes out and he shows interest.... but goes right back to his favorites. So, I've been boxing up the stuff he's not interested in. This is one of the reasons I have been telling family and friends not to buy any toys. I would rather my kids have books (not a lot...), clothes, experiences, or money put into a college fund. Hell, at this point I'd be happy if people bought me diapers and formula once or twice a month. We don't NEED more things. I NEED diapers. I NEED formula. I NEED groceries. Carson doesn't need a new toy or gadget that will end up lost, broken, or in a pile in his room to be forgotten and then donated.

I have empty shelves in my hall closet and in Carson's room. My closet shelf is also empty. I have no desire to fill it with more stuff. It's clean, it's not cluttered....... it's less stress.

Minimalism also goes really well with working Dave Ramsey's financial peace plan, weight loss, and being vegan. I've been saving so much money by cutting back on things we purchase, being mindful of what we do purchase, and using everything we purchase. I rarely throw food out anymore and I'm spending less because I'm buying food in bulk. Food that you can make stretch and is healthy and filling. Brown/wild rices, quinoa, barley, pasta, beans, frozen fruit & vegetables, nuts, and seeds.

I know this kind of living isn't for a lot of people, but if you're feeling overwhelmed.... take a look around you. Are you surrounded by things that bring you immense pleasure and joy? Things that make you go "I love this space and everything in it!" or "What could I do instead if I didn't have to worry about all of this stuff or have all of these distractions."

I will keep everyone posted on how our journey goes and things we have found helpful.

And since I haven't updated on our debt free journey in awhile, it's worth being noted that we have paid off over $10,000 of my school loan in a year. That makes me very proud. Especially knowing that I only work part time and we are still able to kick some major ass because we live within our means.