I am fairly content with the material items in my life and I think that’s the product of my upbringing. My parents were greatly affected by the Depression and the scarcity that was prevalent in the 30s and during World War II. I recall my mother saving bacon grease, and our getting hand-me-down clothing from an older cousin. She loved rummage sales too.
In recent years, I have been influenced by Marie Koda’s advice on simplifying and discarding unloved, worn out clothing and other belongings. Some of my friends are hoarders and incapable of throwing out anything. I’m surprised at the freedom that comes with having less. It’s gotten easier and easier to pass usable items on to thrift stores or anyone who needs something I no longer use.
I have found that exploring new experiences with family and friends is much more rewarding than shopping or feeling like I need to have the next new thing. Sharing meals and good conversations with them is much more valuable. My husband and I keep our car in good shape and hope that it lasts a long time. We don’t need a new one.
Last year we went on two international trips and this year we are going to a family reunion in Calgary and a trip back East to my hometown. I think we’ll enjoy those events as much as any exotic destination I might see in a catalog.
— Oxnard15
In recent years, I have been influenced by Marie Koda’s advice on simplifying and discarding unloved, worn out clothing and other belongings. Some of my friends are hoarders and incapable of throwing out anything. I’m surprised at the freedom that comes with having less. It’s gotten easier and easier to pass usable items on to thrift stores or anyone who needs something I no longer use.
I have found that exploring new experiences with family and friends is much more rewarding than shopping or feeling like I need to have the next new thing. Sharing meals and good conversations with them is much more valuable. My husband and I keep our car in good shape and hope that it lasts a long time. We don’t need a new one.
Last year we went on two international trips and this year we are going to a family reunion in Calgary and a trip back East to my hometown. I think we’ll enjoy those events as much as any exotic destination I might see in a catalog.
— Oxnard15
As far as I'm concerned, a trip to my hometown in Massachusetts WOULD be an "exotic destination." I haven't the money to travel anywhere. It's beginning to bug me. I thought EVERYONE saved bacon grease (although I do not know what to do with my saved jars of it). Thrift stores are getting full of stuff, and used clothing is no longer shipped to other countries. I have so many books, but people no longer read, especially not hard copies. I am happy that you feel more free, and are enjoying new experiences. At least I can read about it! (Macoff)
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