Discovered Treasure…

Simple living is a treasure. It teaches us that the best parts in life are the ones that we are overlooking in our push to have more and check off the to do list. This past year I have realized the importance of embracing a more simple life. To slow down, sip my coffee instead of gulping it down while running out the door and most importantly enjoying time with my family. There is no rhyme or reason to my list but I hope that it gives you some new ideas or ways to think about how to spend your time.

Sleeping in on Saturday.

Mornings can be a lot of work. Saturdays should be a day of lazy mornings. Everyone gets up when they choose and stays in their pajamas for as long as they like. No rush, no demands, just enjoying being at home together with no concerns to hurry and be somewhere. Also pancake breakfasts are best on Saturday.

Evening walks as a family.

This has been one of the most important things we have done as a family in the last year. Getting out of the house, fresh air, stretching the legs and being disconnected from the world. It has opened up time for conversation, laughs and a great way to reduce stress.

Books, lots of books.

Cracking open a book is one of the best things to do! For me this could be a novel, a book to read to the kids or even just a book full of wonderful photos to soak up and provide inspiration.

Quiet time before work.

This past school year my children have all been on the same schedule and it has given me a full hour and a half of time of alone time before I have to be at work! At first I thought that I would fill this time with cleaning, errands, etc. I did at first, but then I realized I just enjoyed sitting on the couch with the dog, drinking coffee, reading or just catching 30 more minutes of sleep.

Dinner at the dining room table.

What is it about sitting in the formal dining room that makes everything special. I will be the first to admit that I don’t do this enough but am beginning to put more effort into it! Dinner together is great for kids, families, marriages, friends and even lonely neighbors. It forces you to sit and talk together, to enjoy your food and to put away the technology.

Say I love you.

This should seem so obvious but when was the last time you just cuddled with your little one and told them all the ways you love them or even more importantly when have you done this with your spouse. Call up your mom, dad, sister, brother or friend. Simple living to me is encouraging relationships and taking time to show affection.

I hope that this short list gives you some inspiration to find ways to make your life more simple and reduce the stress. It really is getting to the basics and focusing on what is most important. Please let me know how you choose to live simply too.