Seeking Simplicity

Coupons

2009-08-30T09:52:00.001-07:00

I clipped coupons and put them away immediately in their new little, very organized home! Now I might actually be able to use them this week... instead of frantically searching for that one coupon I thought I had and could have used but could not find for the life of me.

I'm plodding along with this "Financial Business" challenge.

The 29 Day Challenge: Day #21

2009-08-29T15:35:00.000-07:00

There is a big pile of stuff in the garage that needs to go to Goodwill. I'm loading up my car and getting these items ready to go. First thing in the morning, I am dropping them off at the local donation center. They are all crying out for good homes. And I cannot wait until the space they are currently occupying in the garage is filled with, well, nothing. I am learning to love clear areas filled with nothing more than space.

I have also decided that the last eight "days" of this challenge are going to be devoted to giving away non-tangible things. I am going to work on giving away my time.

Another Update on the "Taking Care of Financial Business" Challenge

2009-08-29T15:32:00.000-07:00

Here's my update - I've done NOTHING to work towards completing this challenge. For some reason, there is so much about financial literacy, financial obligations, and financial planning that I just find so daunting. Therefore, my tendency is to procrastinate on these tasks to no end. I am getting out my coupons right now and am going to finish organizing them before I do anything else. It is hard to take advantage of weekly deals and to have my shopping lists together if I can't even find the coupons I need when I need them. Actually, I am going to do a little web search right now on coupon organization to see if there is anything that really speaks to me. I think I need a little help.

"Take Care of Financial Business Challenge" Update

2009-08-26T07:25:00.000-07:00

Here's a quick update on my slowly-moving process.

1. I took care of all outstanding bills. This task was not as daunting or scary as I had made it out to be. I am only left wondering why I didn't do this sooner.

2. I inquired about health insurance through my new part-time employer. I received a response and now just have to figure out the details and see whether or not it will be in my best interest to switch plans.

3. I've THOUGHT about updating my monthly expenditures, but have yet to deal with all the lingering receipts in my purse and on my table. Now that I think about it, I am going to go deal with the receipts in my purse... right now.

My "Take Care of Financial Business" Challenge

2009-08-23T13:47:00.000-07:00

Katy over at The NonConsumer Advocate has issued a "Take Care of Financial Business" Challenge. I feel like reading her post has finally given me the push I needed to take care of some financial business. Frugality is a big part of my quest to live a life of greater simplicity, and in the spirit of living a simpler, more fulfilling life, I am challenging myself to take care of the following items in the next week:

1. Take care of all outstanding bills.

2. Organize my coupons.

3. Open up a high-yield savings account.

4. Explore the option of cheaper health insurance.

5. Take advantage of two discounts through the employee discount program I'm now eligible for.

6. Re-read Your Money or Your Life.

7. Update my July-August expense charts.

8. Set up a Financial Wall Chart according to the guidelines outlined in Your Money or Your Life.

9. Locate all my gift cards and spend them!

So, this is a start. I will come back and update this list as the week goes on. I will also be posting daily on both my progress and what I've learned through the process.

The 29 Day Challenge: Day #20

2009-08-19T07:09:00.000-07:00

Who knew that it would take me MONTHS to complete a 29 day challenge? The bad news is I don't think those who designed the challenge intended for it to take months to complete (thus the obvious reference to "days" in the title of the challenge). The good news is that I have made the challenge my own, I think about it often, and I will complete it - on my own time frame and my own terms. The best thing that the challenge has done for me has been to make the process of simplifying a conscious very one. I now think more about what I have, why I have it, and who might be able to use what I have more than I can use it.

Today, the following items are going into a donation bag to be dropped off at a local donation center:

1. Some socks - now, I normally wouldn't donate used socks, as I don't think this is generally a hot item at the Goodwill, but I have A LOT of socks that are almost like new that I just never wear. I am passing them along to a better home.

2. A couple of exercise tops that are also in very good shape. They are those tops that I think I might wear someday, maybe... I bet that someone else could definitely wear them soon.

3. Three or four pairs of inexpensive flip flops that I've NEVER worn. I invested in a pair of Chacos and my feet love them so much I don't think I'll ever wear another pair of flip flops again...

I read somewhere recently that we wear 20% of our clothes 80% of the time. I am attacking my closet today with that knowledge. If I have a summer item that I haven't worn this summer, it is going to find a new home. Period.

The 29 Day Challenge: Day #19

2009-07-27T12:28:00.000-07:00

So, I did make it over to the local Goodwill today to drop off some big items. I hope they all find good homes. Tonight I'm doing another round of cleaning out the closet. My goal is to find at least three pairs of good shoes to donate, as well as another bag of clothes.

I really do believe that the more you give away, the more space you open up in your life for whatever may come you way...

In other news, I pretty much have our recycling system set up in the garage. I went by the county recycling center, but I want to search to see if there is a closer drop-off point. It sort of seems counter-productive to have to drive 15 miles to drop off some recycling. My goal is to find a drop-off center within 5 miles of the house or at least on the way to another location that I drive to on a weekly basis.

The Southern Reading Challenge Update

2009-07-27T12:21:00.000-07:00

I am deep into a wonderful book as part of the Southern Reading Challenge. Years ago, I read Richard Bragg's All Over But the Shoutin' and it instantly became one of my all-time favorite memoirs. Well, last week at the library I was lucky enough to not only pick up that book, but also two other books he wrote as well.

I like the author's style and the way he crafts language in a way that is both beautifully complex and simple. I like the way he portrays the human elements of his life and culture with honestly, while at the same time not making gross generalizations about an entire people. Most of all, I like the tribute he makes to his mother - he does not place her up on a pedestal, but instead focuses on her strength of character and incredible resiliency. The descriptions of his childhood serve as an important reminder of why we must honor those people in our lives who loved us no matter what, who believed in us even when we did not believe in ourselves, and who never let us stray too far from home.

The 29 Day Challenge: Day #18

2009-07-26T06:27:00.000-07:00

So, today I am going to do what I have been, for some reason, putting off for a while. I am going to take some "treasures" from the garage that we've cleared out of the house and put them into my car. Tomorrow, first thing in the morning I'm delivering them to Goodwill. There's no good reason, except for procrastination, that I haven't done this already.

So, what am I giving away?

1. Two good lamps that we just don't have space for

2. A water cooler that we never use, but that still works well

3. A desk that we no longer need due to the very smart reconfiguration of an old bathroom vanity area

Why?

Honestly, aside from all the obvious altruistic reasons, I like a clean garage. I like to have a spot for everything and know that whatever I keep I am able to use on a regular basis. The three items above just don't contribute to my zen-like fantasy at all.

In other news, I am thinking about rejoining the compact next month. More on that later...

I've Been Remiss...

2009-07-25T05:35:00.000-07:00

I have to admit, lately the only reason I've come to my blog site is so that I could use it as a portal to check other blogs that I read daily. Starting now, I vow to be remiss no more. I feel I have a lot of things to say, and even if they prove to be important to no one but myself, it is still helpful to post these ideas and get them out of there.

First of all, I'm resuming the 29 Day Challenge... really, I am. I am picking up with Day #17 today.

What I'm Giving Away: Another bag full of clothes

To Whom: The local Goodwill

Why & Misc Thoughts: I still have too much damn stuff... Why have clothes sitting in my closet collecting dust when they might go to other homes where they will be worn and made useful.

I must say that moving has turned me into a temporary super-consumer. I need to reverse that trend right now. For example, last night I walked into IKEA to pick up two items and ended up walking out with about twenty. And even though I bought one of their nifty 59-cent reusable bags, I'm hoping that I won't be venturing near an IKEA or any other type of consumer-trap any time soon. My willpower is just not yet strong enough, so I'm better off avoiding the places all together.

On a different note, I have been holding out on buying a new blender. I really, really want a blender, especially the more I read about all the amazing recipes on fatfreevegan.com and other recipe websites that require blending certain ingredients. And yet... I have not yet made the purchase. I'm hoping that either a) my aunt will find an extra one she can pass my way or b) I can find one used at Goodwill or another thrift store. So I am being patient, which I think is one of the main lessons I've learned from the voluntary simplicity movement anyway. Our society is so filled with instant gratification, but sometimes you just need to wait a little while to get what you want. And that is okay...

Resuming the 29 Day Challenge... Day #16

2009-07-12T06:52:00.000-07:00

Well, life has been a bit hectic lately, but I think I'm settling back into some sort of routine and am ready to get back on-board with the 29 Day Challenge. I am getting together a car-full of treasures in the garage to donate to the local Goodwill and am also researching how recycling works in the new town I just moved to. They don't have curbside pick-up and so I have to locate the nearest recycling center and see how they want the materials divided. It overwhelms me just a bit that recycling is not standard everywhere and reminds me just how far we still have to go in terms of the choices we as a society make about what we value and how those values manifest, or fail to manifest, themselves in our policies and daily routines alike.

Today I am going to give away some time and TLC to the house. I am going to finish vacuuming, do laundry, and make sure this home knows I love and care for it, even though I'm a very new resident here...

Blogging Vacation...

2009-06-18T13:42:00.000-07:00

I'm taking a blogging vacation for a week or so. I'll pick up with my 29 Day Challenge posts when I return. I'll also update my Southern Reading Challenge selections when I come back to the blogging world. For now, relaxation, good reading, and time with my family are taking precedent.

What It Means to Be Human - or - The Post I Promised My Brother I Would Write

2009-06-09T15:41:00.001-07:00

This is not an attempt to pretend to be an authority on anything. I am not an authority on the subject of this post and will not pretend that such a timeless and important question can even be, or should even be, articulated on this blog. What I can provide, however, are a few thoughts of how my perspective on the world has changed over the last few years and of how I am learning to see humanity a little more clearly everyday.

I have come to believe that we are all so much more connected to each other, to the earth, to the past, and to the future than we generally act like we are. I have also come to believe that, as a whole, people have come to live lives that are too disconnected from each other and the world in which we all share. However, humanity is everywhere...

I have seen humanity in so many teachers who refuse to give up, no matter how difficult the education climate in this state has become, no matter how many times they are told to do things that go against what they know to be good for children. These teachers continue not only to show up everyday, but to love and believe in their students in ways that lift these young people to heights previously unimagined.

I have seen humanity in the way that some people remain hopeful in the face of all kinds of adversity, who believe that they are on this earth to serve others, and who selflessly give of themselves without sacrificing their souls.

I am learning more and more that one of the most beautiful things about embracing voluntary simplicity is that by being true to myself and my own values, I can also free up resources that others might need. I've learned that poverty and voluntary simplicity are two very different things. I have never been poor, but I have worked with countless students and parents who, although impoverished in terms of their economic situations, were rich beyond measure. How can so many of us continue to live with such excess, while so many in this world cannot even afford to meet the basic human needs of themselves and their families?

To be human means to look at all other humans as equals. Period. It is as simple and as complicated as that. I'm working on this equality thing, because I don't think that we are brought up in this society to learn how to treat each other as equals.

To be human also means to be aware of how our decisions affect ourselves and others. I think that if we were to truly learn about where our food comes, how it is manufactured, and how we are fed so many lies in the name of profit and big business, we might begin to work towards a healthier world. I am proud to say that I have not given one penny to the fast food industry in a number of years, and if I could take back all the money I gave to them years ago and instead give it to local, organic farmers I would in a heartbeat. I am also proud to say that I continue to educate myself on where my food comes from. I am a vegetarian who tries to buy locally grown and organic when I can. I know I can and should do more. And I do not admonish those who choose differently than I do. But I do believe strongly that if we knew more we would make different choices and begin to change the course of history.

And I believe that to be human means to believe in the possibility of hope and change.

The 29 Day Challenge: Day #15

2009-06-09T15:36:00.000-07:00

Yesterday morning I read a disturbing and compelling article in the newspaper that prompted me to action. The article reported that 7 out of 10 children in our local community are designated as low income and qualify for free and reduced price lunches through the public school system. For many of these children, the only meals they get throughout the day are the ones provided for them at school. This is also the last week of school for local area schools, which means that come next week, these kids will not be getting their regular meals through the schools.

What did I do? I researched a local food bank that distributes food to over 90 local organizations. What did I give them? A modest check that, according to their calculations, will provide 240 meals to local residents.

How do I feel? Sad... but more on that later.

Simplicity and Cycling...

2009-06-07T14:39:00.001-07:00

Yesterday my mom and I did a beautiful and challenging bike ride through a nearby National Park. The park was so seemingly empty that most of the day we had the place to ourselves. It was amazing to be able to ride along and actually hear and see the wildlife in their natural habitats. We were far less intrusive than we would have been in a car, and it gave me a new perspective on a place that I truly feel is magical. Next time, though, I'll bring more water and plan my food better... that should make the last 16 or so miles more enjoyable than they were yesterday... All in all, though, it was a beautiful day in a beautiful place. Small pleasures, small footprint on the earth, large gratitude for the good company and this wonderful place we all call our home.

The 29 Day Challenge: Day #8 - Day #14

2009-06-07T14:27:00.000-07:00

I know I've been remiss with this challenge's postings, but I have not been remiss in the giving-things-away department. Here's a recap of what I've been up to this week:

I've donated a couple carloads of stuff that I didn't even realize I had until I started going through desk drawers, closets, and other storage spaces. Hopefully, what had become unloved by me will find good homes.

This week has made me realize that we really do need much less than we think we need. I've learned that I don't want to or need to store as much stuff. I want a space filled sparingly with useful and beautiful things, but I do not want or need closets stuffed with things that I only see when I pull them out and box them up and move them to a new home.

Hopefully, by day 29 of this challenge my reasons for giving will be more altruistic than they are at this point. Honestly, it feels so good to lighten my load just a little bit more everyday. I don't think this is a bad kind of selfishness, but I do hope that I get more creative and selfless in my gifts.

The 29 Day Challenge: Day #7

2009-06-01T19:05:00.000-07:00

What I Gave Away: Some quality afternoon time...

Who I Gave It/Them To: My mom

Why: Because I sensed that she just needed me beside her this afternoon...

What I Observed/Learned: When my mom and I set our mind to something we are quite a powerful duo.

The 29 Day Challenge: Day #6

2009-05-31T20:25:00.000-07:00

Ooh... I didn't give anything away today, but I am going to make up for it tomorrow. And I am going to fill a donation bag tonight so that I am ready to go...

The 29 Day Challenge: Day #5

2009-05-31T08:58:00.000-07:00

What I Gave Away: Some time and attention to my mom's flowers

Who I Gave It/Them To: My mom

Why: Because she loves her flowers and has taught me the importance of caring for living things. Finally, after all these years, I might just be catching on...

What I Observed/Learned: Nature is incredible and brings me a kind of peace that calms me instantly...

Southern Reading Challenge

2009-05-31T08:57:00.000-07:00

I've decided to join the Southern Reading Challenge and, in doing so, will choose three or more books to read this summer that focus on Southern culture or history. I'll update this post later when I've chosen my books.

Food Matters

2009-05-29T08:04:00.000-07:00

Food Matters

We, as a society, have come so far from where we need to be in terms of what we put into our bodies. Here's a challenge - for a week, or a day, or a meal, or whatever you can... try to have meals that each have no more than 4 ingredients in them. Ideally, these foods will all be locally-grown, organic, and plant-based.

I'll update you on my progress here later. Until then, make sure you check out the site. Watch the trailer, learn what research is out there, make conscious decisions every day about the choices you make and the effects of those choices.

The 29 Day Challenge: Day #4

2009-05-29T08:01:00.000-07:00

What I Gave Away: 2 more boxes of books and a bunch of classroom supplies to a friend who will be teaching high school English for the first time next year

Who I Gave Them To: Goodwill and to my friend

Why: Because I don't want all of my classroom materials sitting in boxes and collecting dust.

What I Observed/Learned: Sometime you just have to let go...

The 29 Day Challenge: Day #2 & Day #3

2009-05-28T08:00:00.001-07:00

What I Gave Away: 10 boxes of classroom books and misc. supplies and some of my time to tutor a friend's son...

Who I Gave Them To: The boxes went to Angel View Crippled Children's foundation

and the time went to my friend's son...

Why: As far as the boxes go, I had enough classroom stuff to fill 10 classrooms. I only need enough stuff for 1. And for the tutoring time? My friend is a single mom with two teenage high school boys. She works hard and asked me for help. I have a special place in my heart for single moms, as I've watched some close friends walk this path. Coming from a home where my parents are still married, I can't fully comprehend the alternative... but I know that in this friend's case, she needed help yesterday and I have the time and the resources to help out.

What I Observed/Learned: Not being in the classroom every day this year, I sometimes forget how much I enjoy working with teenagers. It was a nice reminder...

The 29 Day Challenge: Day #1

2009-05-26T08:22:00.001-07:00

What I Gave Away: 2 bags of books and clothes, some of which were mine and some of which belonged to my mom.

Who I Gave Them To: Angel View Crippled Children's foundation, which runs thrift stores that supports an organization committed to helping developmentally disabled youth become more independent.

Why: Honestly? It's where I always donate stuff. It supports a cause I believe in, but it's also a very conveniently-located drop off place.

What I Observed/Learned: They always ask me if I want a receipt and I always say no. I know that with all I've donated this year I could probably get myself a nice little tax write-off, but for me that would make the act too self-serving. I need to stay focused on the giving. I feel like having a quality organization that is always willing to accept donations and, in doing so, help me simplify my life, is more than enough.

The 29 Day Challenge

2009-05-25T21:26:00.001-07:00

Check it out.

So, I joined the 29 day challenge. The goal is to give away 29 different things in 29 days. The "things" do not have to be tangible items - time or services can also be things.

When I registered on the site, it asked me why I wanted to join the challenge. I think this is it in a nutshell... I live in a world of abundance, where I know that I have more than I need. I am fortunate enough to never have had to think about where my next meal is coming from or where I am going to find a warm bed. Most importantly, I am surrounded by an incredibly supportive network of family and friends who are constantly enriching my life in ways both tangible and intangible. I also know I need to constantly challenge myself to walk the path of social justice. If I believe that this world needs to work every day to become more just, more equitable, and more humane, then I need to do my part.

I'll chronicle the next 29 days in this blog. I encourage you to join me on my journey.

Simplicity, Peace, and Running

2009-05-18T15:05:00.000-07:00

I've decided to train for and run a marathon. I know that part of this decision is fueled by my compulsive need to have tangible goals and plans. At a time when much of my life seems uncertain, I tend to gravitate towards tasks that are straightforward and goal-oriented. That being said, I have been wondering if and how running connects to my voluntary simplicity journey and the concept of peace. Here is what I've come up with thus far...

Running is the simple act of putting one foot in front of the other. It is one of the simplest and accessible forms of exercise in that you need little equipment except your own body and a good pair of shoes. Yet there is an inherent complexity in this simple act. I acknowledge my place of privilege in that I am able-bodied and have the physical health to run - many people throughout the world are not able to engage in what, to me, is a simple and enjoyable act. Running is predictable - if you look ahead and stay focused, you will most probably reach your intended goal. Yet, you cannot get your mind too far ahead of your body or you run the risk of disconnect. Running takes sacrifice. Sometimes you have to force your body to move when it would rather lay dormant. At the end of the day, though, running brings me a sense of peace and calm that help center me and bring me home. I like the rhythmic repetition. I like the challenge of doing something that does not come most naturally to me. I like knowing that this is something at which I will be okay with being average. I can get joy from running without feeling that pressure of perfectionism that drives a lot of things in my life.

For me, voluntary simplicity is like running in that the journey towards a simpler life is a long, complex one made up of the simplest choices and steps. It is also a movement of privilege in that it is a movement of the middle class. Involuntary poverty looks and feels very different than voluntary simplicity because voluntary simplicity involves conscious choices and a sense of freedom. A simple life might often look like a predictable one, although embedded in the predictability is both ambiguity and change. It does not come naturally to me always, and my desire to live a peaceful, simpler life challenges me daily to move outside of my comfort zone and let go of the need to be perfect. It is about seeing the beauty in imperfection and about learning how to be forgiving of myself and my mistakes. Paradoxically, however, simplicity looks like peace and feels like home.

So Proud

2009-04-25T11:02:00.000-07:00

So proud of this guy, not only because of this (see #4 ranking) but more importantly because of the person he is. He inspires me everyday to live a life of conviction and meaning and he reminds me constantly - through the choices he makes - that sometimes all you need to make life more beautiful is to see the world through new eyes.

Inspiration...

2009-04-14T09:01:00.001-07:00

Curious? Check this out.

http://web.mac.com/thelastpintaturtle/Voluntary_Simplicity/Home.html

Perfect Day...

2009-04-06T17:48:00.000-07:00

... coffee and conversation with my sister-in-law in the a.m. and gardening all afternoon with my brother. More later, but I just wanted to get this post started so I don't forget to write it.

I'm coming back to finish this post a few weeks after I had intended, but here it goes.

Sometimes, simplicity comes when we are reminded that life is more about who you are with than anything else. If we can keep spending time with the people we love central to our lives, then maybe everything else will fall into place without much effort. And sometimes, the most beautiful moments are those unplanned hours spent in good company engaged in good work.

Clearing Away the Clutter

2009-03-28T07:25:00.000-07:00

Although simplifying my physical space is only one facet of my journey toward a simpler life, I am constantly amazed at just how difficult this task is for me. No matter how much I clear out, donate, recycle, organize... it still seems like there is so much clutter still left over. I am inspired by those who have successfully lived according to the rules of "the compact," those who are living in small spaces, those who are reducing their possessions to only a set number of things. Period.

When I was little my family lived on a 27-foot sailboat. We also lived on a boat-access only island where everything we wanted to get to and from the island had to be transported in our very small, not-so-reliable boat. This next week I am going to ask my parents questions about this time in our lives - much of which I was too young to remember with much clarity - and then see what lessons I learn that I can apply to my life today. There is something beautiful about not being hindered, bogged-down, controlled by our stuff. There is also something difficult about shifting our minds away from the consumer mentality that drives so much of people's day-to-day interactions.

All I really want is to be free and to be able to focus my energy on the people, ideas, and actions that truly mean something to me. Everything else is going to have to fade away, be given away, or be just let go of.

Getting Married...

2009-03-17T20:14:00.001-07:00

No, not me... my little brother. I am so excited for him and the wonderful woman he is marrying as they start this new adventure in their lives together. I have no doubt that they'll enjoy the journey.

The journey of 1,000 miles begins with a single step - or - Reflecting on the journey

2009-03-12T14:48:00.000-07:00

I realized even though I read other people's blogs everyday, I haven't posted on my own in almost two months. Hmmm... again, I've sat here waiting for the perfect post to come and then write nothing. As a writer, I should know this process doesn't work that way. Sometimes I just have to put the words down with them and then perfect them later. So here we go...

Sometimes I don't think much about simplicity until I wake up one morning, my mind racing with all the things I "have" to do and all the deadlines I "have to meet." It's almost like I wait until I'm forced to take a deep breath before I take the time to look around and ask those all-important questions about my life, questions like:

What am I doing?

Where am I going?

Why am I doing what I'm doing and going where I'm going?

I think that voluntary simplicity is as much about consciousness and intention as anything else. In that way, choosing to live more simply is very much like the writing process. You start off with an idea, a vision, a goal. Then you give it a shot, as messy as that first attempt might look. And then to pare it down, and pare it down some more. Sometimes you have to stop and breathe, scream, jump around the room. Or do whatever it takes to refocus yourself. And then you keep at it. Even if you end up with a final product in mind, if you don't take pleasure in the journey then the end product can never be as beautiful.

I've realized that there are a lot of things I like about my own simplicity journal. I like the satisfaction of cleared spaces -- in my home, in my life, in my mind. I like planning the next steps. I like the feeling of free moments. I like knowing that I'm trying, albeit imperfectly, to reduce my footprint on the earth. And I like stopping once in a while to reflect on how far I've come and how good it feels to enjoy the journey.

Remember to say thank you...

2009-01-21T14:06:00.000-08:00

I've been spending a lot of time out on the road lately, driving all over this part of the state visiting school sites and collecting data for my research. Sometime last week I was speeding down the freeway, feeling a little stressed because I was running about 5 minutes late, and this red truck in front of me was going so slow I had no choice but to read the decal on the back of his truck. What I saw made me smile, calmed me down, and reminded me how important it is to have perspective...

The decal said "Remember to say thank you" and was accompanied by two silholutte (how do you spell that word, anyway?) figures - a man and a horse - bowing their heads. In the background was the outline of a large hill with a cross on the top of it. Even though I don't consider myself an incredibly religious person, I felt that the message on the back of this truck was one that I needed to see, to internalize, and to remember.

So often we go through our days, forgetting just how incredibly blessed we are in our lives in so many ways. To me, striving for a life of greater simplicity is as much about giving thanks as it is about anything else. I think it was Gandhi who said that we should live simply so that others can simply live. I know that if I live a simpler life, through both clearing away the external clutter and enriching my inner sense of peace, I am - in my own way - saying thank you.

I am saying thank you to my parents who taught me, through example, that people and relationships are more important than things... I am saying thank you and acknowledging that I have everything I really need, and that there are those in the world who don't, and that the more responsibly I live and the more generously I live, the more hope I am creating for people whom might be in greatest need of that hope.

Peace is possible, change is possible, and today - as much as ever - I know it's important for me to remember that and to say thank you to all who have taught me those things through both their words and their actions.

Independence, Interdependence, and Community

2009-01-01T09:38:00.000-08:00

"We have all a better guide in ourselves, if we would attend to it, than any other person can be."

- Jane Austen, Mansfield Park

"There are people whom one loves immediately and forever. Even to know they are alive in the world with one is quite enough."

- Nancy Spain

"Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has."

- Margaret Mead

Wasted Time?

2008-12-10T13:37:00.000-08:00

Although I read others' blogs almost every day, I realize that I haven't posted anything on my own blog in almost a month. I could try to concoct some sort of metaphor to explain the significance that absence has to what has been going on in my own life, or I could be a little more honest and straightforward. I think I'll try the later.

I want to be a better listener. I want to be more comfortable in silence, in uncertainty, in being still. I'm not very good at being still, either physically or mentally, and I'm pretty bad at yoga - although I am getting better the more I practice. I've been caught up in the achievement-minded mania for so long that sometimes I need to be reminded to just slow down, breathe, and be.

So I am working on not working so hard, on not focusing so much on perfection. I'm focusing on seeing beauty in imperfection and on learning from those who walk simple paths, who practice profound truths, and who give much more than they take. I'm also trying to be more forgiving with myself.

So, I haven't posted in almost a month because I was waiting for something to inspire me to write the perfect post. I've gotten over that idea. Maybe there is no such thing as wasted time.

Contemplation... Also Known As Inaction or Fear

2008-11-14T13:03:00.000-08:00

So I was sitting here staring at my computer screen, contemplating my life, thinking about all the things I think I should be doing right now, and perusing blogs of people who are actually out there, in the world... acting on their beliefs, changing their ways, speaking out about things that matter. And here I am, somewhat paralyzed in a state of inaction, or fear, or whatever you want to call it. I think I need to wake up just a little bit. It's nice for me to have ideas and to write about them somewhat fluently in ways that I think won't offend many people, to make "safe" changes like those listed in my last post, and to otherwise go about my days thinking I am making a difference, making a change, when really I am doing little more than stewing about in my own fear. That, I've realized, is something that I need to address immediately. Stay posted. More to follow soon...

Things to Do...

2008-11-11T19:27:00.000-08:00

I've always been a fan of "things to do" lists, and although I am trying to break myself of the habit of creating these long lists and then feeling disappointed when I don't get everything done on any given day... I'm not quite ready to let go of the lists just yet. So here's a list of things I am going to do to simplify my life, hopefully within the next year.

1. Finish school

2. Donate or sell about 50% of my belongings

3. Begin to work the steps of the Your Money or Your Life plan to financial independence

4. Find a way to make money that allows me the time and freedom to pursue my passions and interests

5. Learn how to create and maintain a vegetable garden

6. Learn how to compost

7. Live according to the Compact and not purchase anything new, or at least cut my purchases of new things by 75%

8. Help develop the non-profit organization I am a part of

More to follow... this is, obviously, only a start. Suggestions?

Hope

2008-11-05T14:54:00.001-08:00

Sometimes hope originates from a place of perceived hopelessness and sometimes the most extraordinary outcomes result from the most ordinary of actions. I have to admit that on this personal journey I am traveling towards a life of greater simplicity, there have been many moments when I have been a little less than proud to be an American. I am not proud of our country's greed and consumerism and oppression, but that conversation belongs in a different post on a different day.

Today, I want to focus on the positive. I have to say that I am overwhelmed with a sense of pride, hope, and empowerment that I have not felt in a very long time... if ever. I have always wanted so much to be part of a generation that stands up for things that are positive, humane, and hopeful and I have always believed that change is possible. I have also always believed that my generation - the youth of this country - has not been apathetic so much as it has been waiting for a chance to really be heard. And last night I saw a glimpse of what this kind of voice might mean in my lifetime. To me, that deserves a moment of pause and of reflection.

Some Inspiration from a Greeting Card

2008-11-03T08:24:00.000-08:00

1. the path is not straight.

2. mistakes need not be fatal.

3. people are more important than achievements or possessions.

4. be gentle with your parents.

5. never stop doing what you care most about.

6. learn to use a semicolon.

7. you will find love.

- marion winik

Today I am meditating on number three. Of course this is something I believe, but I think it is also important to make sure my actions are aligning themselves with my beliefs. This can be challenging sometimes. A little reminder like the card I found on my desk this morning is nice.

Let Me Show You What It's Like...

2008-10-28T16:50:00.000-07:00

Let me show you what it's like

To be caught in the middle of nowhere and forever.

The wounds are real,

Although they are bandaged well.

No one really wants to see the hurt anyway;

No one wants to hear the cries.

We are too caught up in the facade,

The sensationalism,

The saying that it could never happen to us.

Who is this us anyway?

Is it the mother who sends her children to bed hungry each night,

To the sound of the nightly news blaring through the wall

And the smell of marijuana smoke tickling their noses?

There has to be a better way.

Or is this us the CEO with the five BMWs in his large garage -

Things he bought to make up for the emptiness of his house,

His relationship with his children, his wife, his ex-wife, his job that he hates?

Maybe there is such a thing as too much space.

Maybe the us are the ones who sit in the middle,

Saying just enough so that we don't really have to say anything.

No one really wants to see the hurt anyway.

Let me show you what it's like.

We argue over the economy, the war, gas prices.

No one mentions education much these days.

Silent cries of millions of children drowned out by more important things.

No one really wants to see the hurt anyway;

No one wants to hear the cries.

We are too caught up.

This could never happen to us.

These are not our children being misdirected by a lost generation,

Being punished by the greed of cheap solutions,

Being hardened by a lack of care.

Because if these are our children,

Then what does this say about us,

Being caught as we are in the middle of nowhere and forever?

Someone has to see the hurt.

Someone has to hear the cries.

We cannot stay trapped here for long.

Ah-ha!

2008-10-24T18:19:00.000-07:00

I just solved my gift-giving dilemma. Everyone is getting Kiva gift certificates. If you are not familiar with the organization, please check it out at www.kiva.org. What a great way to help make the world a more just and equitable place. Peace.

Inspiration...

2008-10-24T17:59:00.000-07:00

Last week I ran my first 15 K race and found myself so inspired by all the athletes, volunteers, and most of all by the beauty of the fall morning. The course was amazing, I felt incredibly strong, and the weather could not have been better.

And all this sort of got me thinking of all the things that inspire me and that make me grateful... so I thought I'd start a little list, the operative word being "start." I don't think a list like this is something you ever really finish, which is part of the journey that we call life. So, here it goes (in no particular order of importance, or else all the people would be first of course):

1. Desert sunrises

2. South Florida sunsets over the Gulf of Mexico

3. My arms and legs that let me run and cycle and walk and swim and sometimes even rock climb

4. My education and all the ways it has made me see the world through different eyes

5. My brother and his strength, both mentally and physically

6. My dad and his never-ending belief in and support of my dreams

7. My mom, the strongest and most beautiful woman I know

8. My boyfriend's love, support, humor, and intelligence

9. Authors who write about things that matter

10. The fact that storms don't last forever, and the probability that most of them will be followed by the most breathtaking peacefulness

11. My bicycle

12. Changing seasons

13. My house at about 3 p.m. every Thanksgiving

14. My 07-08 girls water polo team

15. My brother's fiance for loving my brother and wanting to spend her life with him

16. Desert wildflowers

17. Joshua Tree National Park

18. My aunt's screened-in back porch and back yard

19. Molly, the best dog in the world (slightly biased, although most people who meet her and don't have their own dogs already would probably agree)

20. The possibility of peace and the people who believe in it

21. The roof over my head and the ground under my feet

22. Apologies and forgiveness

23. Beautiful artwork, photography, and music

24. Babies

25. Cecile Andrew's book The Circle of Simplicity

26. Yoga

27. My spin class at the gym

28. People who seek new truths and are not afraid to stand up for what they believe in

29. Teenagers who manage to develop and maintain a strong sense of self

30. All my extended family members who inspire me constantly

31. Socks and warm blankets and ear warmers and sweaters (it's cold today)

32. My dissertation chair and committee members who believe in me and my research

33. Teachers who dedicate their lives to our future and strive to create a more just, equitable, and peaceful world

34. Jonathan Kozol

35. Howard Zinn

36. My boyfriend's garden

37. Food on my table at every meal

38. Old photographs

39. Autumn and leaves changing colors

40. New beginnings

41. My friends - I have the best friends in the world

42. Quiet moments of reflection

43. Desert mornings

44. The smell of fresh rain

45. Freshly cut flowers on the dining room table

46. Diversity

47. Freedom, in both the ideal and realistic sense of the word

48. Conversations on a cold day by the fireplace

49. Businesses dedicated to sustainable living and responsible production

50. Smiles on the faces of children

Stay posted... my goal is to get to 100 by Thanksgiving.

Defining Voluntary Simpliciy

2008-10-24T17:34:00.000-07:00

Although there are many definitions for voluntary simplicity, I really liked this one from www.choosingvoluntarysimplicy.com.

It reads: Voluntary simplicity is a philosophy. Often called compassionate living, it is a conscious choice to simplify your life and a deliberate downshifting to create the life and home environment that fit you are your family... Voluntary simplicity is not a limiting lifestyle. Actually, choosing to live "consciously and deliberately" will give you freedom... more quality time... more discretionary money... and more appreciation and enjoyment of every aspect of your life.

Beautifully-worded. Simple, yet profound. To me, it is worth it to strive to live a life centered around the ideas and ideals that I can really believe in. It is a journey, and I'm enjoying the ride...

And Yet Another Idea (Or Two) For November

2008-10-24T14:51:00.000-07:00

My cousin suggested two more great ideas for Thanksgiving. We are going to volunteer to work at a soup kitchen (I really can't believe that is something I have never done) and also try to infuse some organic foods into our Thanksgiving feast. I say "infuse" because I don't think that this year, with the number of people we feed (60-70) and the amount of coordination that entails, we would be able to go completely organic. But where we can, we are going to try to. I'm beginning to look forward to all of these little, yet important, challenges.

Holiday Gift Giving

2008-10-24T14:43:00.000-07:00

I just saw an ad about K-Mart (or some store like that) going back to lay-away this holiday season. In the commercial, there are a few smiling women standing in line with their carts FULL of what looked to me like a whole lot of junk. It seems that at some point, everyone would just say ENOUGH. Not only does our country have enough stuff, many of us have way, way more than enough stuff. I've decided that for the rest of the year (and maybe for the rest of my life) everyone is either going to get a homemade present or a donation to a charity in their honor or a creative service (i.e. hours of babysitting). And this decision is coming from someone (me) who used to love, love, love to buy presents. However, I just don't think I can justify it any longer. So, that is how I am going to attempt to get through the holiday season. The only place I see myself having a hard time following through with this is with the kids that I usually buy for. We'll see how it goes.

Other Ideas for November

2008-10-21T07:11:00.000-07:00

I've been thinking about other things to do in November that are maybe more authentic to me than the way I've spent my time in the past. I have to admit there were years when I braved the mall on the day after Thanksgiving to get a jump-start on my holiday shopping. Now the thought of even entering a mall, especially on the busiest shopping day of the year, makes me almost sick to my stomach. So, I thought that instead I would try to organize a Really, Really Free Market(RRFM) at a park near my house on the Friday after Thanksgiving. The markets are all over now, but the original one was started by Kirsten Brydum in San Francisco. Kirsten was killed last month and the RRFM in San Francisco is working hard, as are a lot of other organizations, to keep her memory and spirit alive. For more information on the original market, you can visit the website at www.reallyreallyfree.org. The idea is fairly simple. On a particular day, everyone who wants to participate can bring stuff they want to give away to the park (or wherever the event is being held). People are free to take whatever they want/think they need/know they will use. No strings attached. No barter or trade necessary. Free. The only catch is that if you bring stuff and no one takes it, then you have to take it with you. No one can leave trash behind. People also can bring blankets, music, food and hang out/socialize. It's getting people together, outside in a way that stands in direct opposition to the consumerism that drives our culture. So I am going to work on making this happen. I will post updates as the time nears. My other idea was to get together the 60 or 70 people who converge on my family's home for Thanksgiving and do a collective donation to some charity, preferably one that supports and/or benefits a Native American organization in some way. I think that we could collect at least $100 or $200 and it might start a tradition that would continue annually. I need to do some work on this idea too, but I thought about it and decided that if I posted it I would be more likely to hold myself accountable for actually making it happen.

A Really Good Idea

2008-10-21T07:05:00.000-07:00

My friend told me about something she is going to try this holiday season and I thought it was an idea worth sharing. It's about being grateful, and the concept is simple. Every day for a month (or longer) you write a note to someone telling them why you are grateful for him/her. I am going to do this in November and I know my biggest challenge will be actually mailing the notes. I've decided to do the following things to make this easier and more fun. First of all, I am going to address and put postage on a bunch of envelopes in advance so that I don't have to root around for addresses, stamps, etc. I am also going to make a bunch of homemade cards in advance (which is also keeping with The Compact and not buying a bunch of new cards) and also use some cards in the stockpile of store-bought cards I keep around "just in case." I am also going to try to actually get together (for a walk, some coffee) with some of the people who are physically close to me but whom I haven't seen in a long time. What better reason to get together than to let someone know how much he/she means to me?

Pondering Peace

2008-10-20T09:34:00.000-07:00

I believe in the possibility of peace. That being said, I wonder how we can have peace in a world with so much inequity, so much greed, so much economic disparity, so much hopelessness. More thoughts on this to come...

Things I Have Purchased New...

2008-10-17T16:20:00.000-07:00

I figured it was time to confess. These are the things I have purchased new since September 1st, complete with my justifications/excuses...

1. Post-It Notes (lots of them)

2. Books for my dissertation research that I couldn't find used

3. A new bicycle pump (because I really, really wanted to ride and couldn't wait to track down a used one)

4. A sauna suit to wear when I work out

5. A copy of Self magazine (accompanied by a generous helping of ice cream as part of a bad day self-pity party)

6. A nice card to give to the boyfriend as an apology note (closely connected to purchase #5)

So... I still have a long ways to go, but I am feeling good about the small changes I've made and have been inspired by all those who are out there doing amazing things to make this world a better place.

Answers to your Burning Questions

2008-10-15T07:27:00.000-07:00

I know that everyone thinks about what it would be like without the modern convenience of garbage service. Well, maybe everyone doesn't think about this all the time; but for those of us who have this modern convenience that most of the world goes without, the thought of not having our trash (or even recycling) picked up on a bi-weekly basis might make us think about what and how we consume. My friend just moved to 20 beautiful acres in a rural part of the country and does not have garbage service. This is what she had to say. It definitely gives me some food for thought...

"It is interesting how you begin to consider things when you have no trash service. Here is what we do: Separate - paper products (burn pile), food disposal (we also have no garbage disposal, but Mooshoo, our potbelly pig, eats anything and everything), plastics (save for recycle; the corner store recycles every other Monday), what's left (and there is stuff left, sadly) my husband takes to a local business in city limits and sneaks it in with their trash). Needless to say, we rethink what we buy in the way of packaging, food, and everything else. Just interesting life experience."

The Compact

2008-09-12T10:34:00.001-07:00

When I was doing some online research a couple of months ago, I came across this blog on something called "The Compact." Started by a group of people in San Francisco, the mission of The Compact is: 1) to go beyond recycling in trying to counteract the negative global environmental and socioeconomic impacts of U.S. consumer culture to resist global corporatism, and to support local businesses, farms, etc.; 2) to reduce clutter and waste in our homes (as in trash compact-er); 3) to simplify our lives (as in calm-pact). Basically, the group agreed to buy nothing new, except for food, drinks, necessary medications and cleaning products (but not equipment), socks and underwear, and pajamas for children. The group vowed to buy used, borrow, or do without everything else.

I was really intrigued by the idea, and so I suggested to a friend of mine that we try it for one month. We both decided that September would work, since in August she was relocating permanently and I was traveling and in a state of flux. So, September it was. The first week was easy, especially because in hindsight I realized that I had spent the last week in August stocking up on things that I thought I needed. Is this cheating? Maybe... but I'll try not to judge myself too harshly. So, I was doing really well until, without thinking, I went online and bought my boyfriend a new book. I had been trying to get the book used from this great website called paperbackswap.com. (If you've never heard of it, check it out. Membership is free and you swap books with other members for only the cost of postage, which is under $2.50 per book). Anyway, the site has this little button next to books they don't have available that reads "buy this book new." Without thinking, I clicked on it and redirected myself to Amazon. Come to find out, I already have an account with Amazon that somehow has my credit card information saved and so I bought a new book without even really thinking about it. As soon as I clicked "Confirm purchase," I mumbled some expletive under my breath. I realized I had just unconsciously gone against The Compact. I think this was only on September 7th.

So, I vowed to do better and was doing well until I was working and managed to highlight (again unconsciously) a book that I had borrowed from a professor. This prompted me to go back on Amazon and purchase the book for her new, since the loaned copy was brand-new when she gave it to me. I guess my weaknesses are books, which is not THAT bad... But as much as I am not going to be too hard on myself, I am also not going to rationalize.

Other than that, and the fact that if something is needed in the house I send my boyfriend out to get it (again, is this cheating?), I've found the process to be fairly easy. If I choose to continue past September, I am looking forward to the challenge of both the holidays and the fact that I have a number of weddings/baby showers/other events coming up.

Also, I am wondering where post-its fall. I'm hoping they fall under the "necessary items" category. Because I use them for my book annotations and have become quite addicted recently. Also, if I take up knitting (everyone might be getting a scarf for Christmas), I'm assuming I can buy yarn. I just need to find a good local crafts store and avoid the lure of Michael's.

Simplicity and Social Justice

2008-06-30T13:30:00.000-07:00

I'm seeking connections between the concepts of voluntary simplicity and social justice. Can one be socially just without also moving towards a more counter-culture state of voluntary simplicity? Just some food for thought...

Starting the Journey

2008-06-17T16:46:00.000-07:00

I've been thinking a lot about this Ganhdi quote I came across the other day, which reads "there is enough on earth for everybody's need, but not for everyone's greed." When are we, as both individuals and a society, going to recognize the effects of our own greed? With headlines lamenting the crashing market, rising gas prices, and crippling recession, I cannot help but wonder when we're going to wake up. I've started to make small steps - reading up on the voluntary simplicity movement and attempting to live more mindfully - but I know I have a long way to go. I'm looking forward to the journey of finding a greater sense of both inward and outward peace.