I have been simplifying over the past several years. I cut down my work schedule to have more time with my children. I am home much more and can do all the "mom" things such as taking them to school, spending the day with my 4 yr old daughter, and getting the kids off the bus when they come home.
I have simplified my "material" world. I ask myself "do I really need this, will I really use it, and where will I put it" before buying anything. I do not recreational shop anymore. I only shop when I need something and frankly, I just don't like to shop anymore! I would rather spend the day at the local park, working in the yard, etc than be stuffed inside the mall or a store, esp. on a nice day.
I simplified the my "electronic" world. I don't buy alot of electronic stuff and frustrate myself with all the beeps, instruction manuals, uploads, downloads, etc. I never did get a digital camera and love my film camera. I don't need a cell phone to send emails, text, photos, etc. I just want to get a call and be able to make a call. That's it.
We had 4 TV's in our house. I disconnected 2 of them. Now, just one for the family and a small one in our BR for us.
I simplified the kid's stuff. My new cleaning method is to get out several laundry baskets, and whatever is not picked up and laying on the floor is stuffed into the baskets. I then haul the baskets to the cellar and announce that "you know where to find your stuff if you need it". I will no longer take responsibility for their stuff.
As a result of all the changes, I am enjoying my home. I am cooking alot more and enjoy that. My sons like to help me cook. My house looks pretty clean most of the time. Still somewhat messy but manageable. Before it looked like Yucca Flats after the nuclear blast.
I enjoy the peace and quiet of life and the simple things. I watch the birds in the backyard and take time to sit and pet my dog. Life is good.
