What are some ways that you live simply?

[manualman]

geojack:

So when Valvoline opened 1000’s of oil change places it did nothing for the economy? All the new construction, employment etc means nothing?

I don’t recall mentioning wealth. You don’t have to be rich to have work done so you can have time to take your family to a game or movie.

Looks like we disagree. I’d best not hijcak the thread further.

On the simplicity theme, changing my oil in the driveway (etc) while my 4 year old asks me questions and draws with chalk on the driveway COUNTS as family time. AND helps the budget so I don’t have to work overtime to afford luxuries.

 

[Breton]

These won’t apply to everyone:

When my 7 and/or 5 year old asks me to put down the paper or rake and come play for awhile, I very often do just that. Amazingly the paper eventually gets read and the leaves get raked.

We try to linger around the dinner table longer and talk rather than practice the old “eat-and-go”.

We all take walks together in the evenings. Its interesting how if mom and dad are going on a walk, sister and brother will go along.

Spend more time listening.

 

[Celeste88]

1. Get rid of Cable TV - there isn’t anything good on there anyway. I still have a TV and a dvd player for the occasion I want to watch a movie…but it’s not very often.

1. Buy in bulk
2. Cook in large portions then freeze the leftovers
3. Don’t drive unless you have to (bike or walk where possible)
4. Make your own cloths
5. Go to the library instead of the book store

All these suggestions are good, but I disagree with #5. The last time I was at a fabric store and I looked at the prices of patterns, fabric, zippers, etc. to sew your own clothing would cost just as much as buying new! Plus not all of us are skillful seamstresses! Heres what I do…shoes and underwear I buy new. The rest of the stuff I shop for in thrift stores, consignment shops or church rummage sales. These are great for children’s clothing. You can find some real nice items at church rummage sales. Also if you have designer label clothing thats in good shape and just doesn’t fit you anymore, take it to a consignment shop and get a few bucks for it.

 

[manualman]

Celeste88:

All these suggestions are good, but I disagree with #5. The last time I was at a fabric store and I looked at the prices of patterns, fabric, zippers, etc. to sew your own clothing would cost just as much as buying new!

More by the time you buy a decent sewing machine. My wife does this on occasion. It’s important to remember that simplicity and frugality are not necessarily the same. Spending the time making something from nothing instead of engaging in modern entertainment is, IMO, simplicity even if it doesn’t save you money.

 

[frogman80]

manualman:

… Spending the time making something from nothing instead of engaging in modern entertainment is, IMO, simplicity even if it doesn’t save you money.

HA… The definition of most of my hobbies!

 

[iserve]

I agree:

• Do it yourself- builds pride in one’s workmanship, creativity, and usually …patience, as well as saving money.
• Get rid of cable- Television is just so much junk.
• Do without the fancy clothes, cars , etc. Ask yourself when buying a luxury item if you deserve to squander money on this more than the person you could help with it needs it.
• Take time to enjoy God’s gifts and creation, these are usually things that are free.
• Visit libraries and read to improve your understanding of the world instead of just entertainment.
• Do simple activities with a variety of people.
• Learn to laugh for the purpose of uplifting
• Visit those who are in need of your company and comfort.
• Keep away from anything that will tempt you to lust for luxuries, sex, money and power.
• Sing and dance, draw, plant a garden, paint,- use all your creative talents to their fullness.
• Pray, take the Sacraments, teach children about God.