It’s been another busy week. As I am finally settling down to relax, my mind shifts to my surroundings and I think of all the money I have spent on ‘stuff’. Stuff that really has no other purpose than to make my home feel aesthetically pleasing.
I look around and realize that most of the “stuff” I have I don’t need. I can live without the mirror in the hall, I don’t have to have a picture/photo on every wall. I really don’t need all these trinkets/knickknacks on every shelf. I don’t even need the shelf.
This made me think of things that I don’t spend money on and how much joy I have by NOT spending money on “stuff”.
- Feeling the warmth of the sun on my face.
- Listening to the leaves blow on the trees
- Seeing “The Kid” smile
- Spending time with my mom and dad
- Listening to dad tell a funny story
- Listening to mom talk about her siblings
- Laughing with my sister
- Listening to music with my brother
- Seeing a beautiful sunset
- Having a great conversation with one of my cousins
- Learning something new
- Spending time in prayer
- Watching my great nephew play with his Papaw
- Watching the ducks/geese play at our local park
- Sharing a meal with a loved one
- Accomplishing a task
- Helping my neighbor with a chore
- Opening up the windows and doors on a beautiful spring day
- The smell of a freshly cut lawn
- Watching the success of my niece and nephew
- Listening to my Mom’s siblings sing from old recordings
- Hearing a great sermon preached
- Taking a long hot shower
- Going through old photos
- Singing, even though I sound terrible
- Dancing in the kitchen with “the Kid”
- Making my mom laugh
- A good night’s rest
- A good day’s work
- People watching
- Making my “To-do” lists for the week
- Quiet time to reflect
- Taking a drive…..Yes, I know I spent money on the gas.
- Taking photos on my drive
- Taking a walk
- Writing a blog
- Seeing my family having fun and making memories
- Getting organized
- Listening to music
- Being surrounded by God’s creations.
As I write this, my house is open, the sun is shining through. I hear cyclist on the bike path, children playing on my street. A soft cool breeze is blowing through the house. I smell someone grilling out for the first time this year. I also smell one of my neighbors baking a cake or cookies. I hear “The Kid” laughing in his room while he plays an on-line game.
I have heard a great sermon and listened to some great music. I have made mom laugh today. I have achieved a few tasks and now off to fix food for my loved ones.
Could my day be any better? I don’t think so. And I didn’t spend a penny. I have had a full enriched, joyful day. The best part, it’s not over yet.
How do you find your joy without spending any money?