Simplicity

When we returned to Colorado from Maryland, except for a few valued pictures, some clothing and accessories, and some books - well, lots of books -everything was sold or given away. We didn't even bring furniture! We mailed some boxes - 28 of them - and everything else had to fit in the cars.

So, who would have thought that after downsizing from a 3000 square foot home (not including the basement!) to a 1200 square foot "cottage," as Elsa likes to call it, that I would have enough to sell and a full load to give away?! Granted, alot of the items were kids clothing, toys, some books, random funky knick-knacks, and some kitchenware, but still...do we really need so much STUFF?


Over the years, I had an urge to purge. I saw how accumulating things took away from living life - always worried that something would break, having to repair this or that, keeping all of the junk organized and clean, trying to keep up with the Jones', and taking time out of my weekends to yard sale for things that really meant nothing to me.

When I began my journey as a Quaker, I felt so relieved. Finally, a group who practiced simplicity ( keeping things simple emotionally, spiritually, physically), thereby encouraging me to do the same! Our meetinghouse wasn't ornate - just a small building with a few benches, a large table for sharing meals, some bookshelves, and a kids room. Nothing fancy. Yet, it was so welcoming and grounded. The people made it that way.

After today, I feel like I'm back on track. Don't get me wrong...I still have my collection of antique rolling pins, vintage jewelry, and handmade quilts.  My house still feels warm and cozy. And I don't plan on halting the joy I find in rummaging through antique stores LOOKING at history. But I
realized - remembered - in the grand scheme of life, taking time to collect things is far less important than spending time making memories.


(Oh, and donating things was on the list. The work that Habitat for Humanity does is uplifting in so many ways. They always get my stuff;)