101 ways to CHOOSE SIMPLICITY (21-25)

101 Ways to Choose Simplicity
(ways #21-25)

It has been a while since I wrote in this series.... I have 'chosen simplicity' the last few weeks by strictly limiting my computer time. Spring is an extra busy season for our family. The 'homestead' requires much more of my time and I have had 3 children in sports. Enough said!

To continue on in this series, keep in mind that every family is different. What 'simplifies' life for us might not work for you. Also I have to constantly remind myself that every little thing I do to simplify my life adds up.... not any one thing makes it complete. I also remind myself that life is seasons.... literally..... Life in the winter is drastically different than in the summer.... our lifestyle must be flexible!! So, without further rambling.....
#21: Have BASIC shoes.
Ones for everyday and a few dressier ones.
Now, I will admit, I am not a 'shoe girl' anyway, but limiting the number of shoes in this home helps a TON! With 6 pairs of feet we could end up with a TON of shoes.... NOT necessary!!! I keep our shoe selection to a minimum... focusing on quality and comfort rather than quantity and latest fashion.

#22: Have an extra set of sheets for each bed.
Take one set off to wash and IMMEDIATELY put on the 'extra' clean set. Some people keep their extra set stored between the mattress and the box spring.... I keep mine in a dresser drawer. The extra sets for the kids are in the upstairs linen closet. Bedtime needs no additional stress... having the clean sheets on and ready really helps simplify bedtime!

#23: Build up a surplus.
As much as the budget allows (even if it is just a few dollars each week) build up a surplus of things you know your family uses. When items are on sale stock up.... then get to the point that you only buy them when they are on sale. This will save you a ton of money in the long run and will save you stress!!! Nothing says 'I love you' like never running out of toilet paper!!! This is a reminder to myself.... I let my 'stock pile' of klenex run out.... now we NEED them and I hate to buy them when they aren't on sale! I also find it a great comfort to know that we have a few weeks worth of food in the house.... it is always wise to have the means to feed your family.

#24: Clip your key chain to your purse strap or belt loop.
I hate the sinking feeling I get when I am frantically searching for my keys!!! A few years ago I purchase a simple metal clip that I put on my key chain... now I clip it to by purse or my belt loop.... end of the frantic search at the bottom of my purse!!!! I love knowing where my keys are at all times!!!!!
#25: Breakfast for supper!
We really enjoy breakfast food (pancakes, eggs, bacon, waffles, sausage and buscuits, etc) but don't have the time or energy to fix these in the mornings. Our solution is to have a 'breakfast' night once a week for supper. We call it our 'family tradition' in Simple Family Supper. We have lots of fun with pancakes... letters, happy faces, shapes and since we raise chickens we usually have an abundance of eggs. I always make a BIG batch of the pancakes, waffles or french toast and freeze any left over for the kids to warm up on weekday mornings.

What do you think?? Have you found any of these helpful in your own life?? I would love to hear from you!

Have a BLESSED day, BE a BLESSING!
Heather