As we begin another year, it is a time for forced reflection. All around me people are talking about New Years Resolutions. In fact, a good friend of mine is on Resolution #21. I'd have to live in a bunker to not mull over my life.
With two mortgages, some unexpected home expenses and an international adoption on the horizon, I'm forced to think about money. Ugh. Money.
We've been fortunate in regards to money. We've been able to travel, buy the clothes, jewelry, etc. that we want, go out to eat frequently, and pay our bills. Sure, there've been a few bounced checks along the way, but we only have our stupidity to blame for that.
After that long introduction, let me get to the heart of this post: The things I love that money cannot buy. (Or, money has already bought it.)
- Playing cards and dominoes with my husband.
- Boone and Forrest. I walked into the living room today to find them snuggling on the couch. They immediately separated when they discovered they'd been "caught."
- Music. Especially the kind with twang.
- Being outside. Walks and occasional jogs do my heart wonders.
- Relaxing mornings with home brewed coffee.
- On mornings I don't have time to relax, just home brewed coffee.
- Teaching middle school. Those who have been with me on any given Sunday night may argue I don't LOVE my job, but really, I do.
- Time with friends. Usually this means going out, but it doesn't have to, right? It's the time together that makes it meaningful.
- Reading. I am fortunate to be on a Kindle account with five women in my family who are much more voracious readers than me. So, I have access to over 130 books. It would take me years to read all those books. And, who says I can't access the library?
- Card making. I have accumulated so much paper, stickers, stamps, inks, etc., for hours of crafting.
- Talking on the phone to my mom. (Love night and weekend minutes!)
What do you love that money cannot buy? or What is your best money-saving strategy?
Snuggling on the couch with my little family is probably at the top of my list of things that I love that money cannot buy.
ReplyDeleteMy best money-saving strategy? Not to spend. It's taken me a long time to realize that's the best way to save. I'm quick like that.
I love that moment when I can sit with my spouse, and be perfectly content in that moment, loving every second of where we are in our lives.
ReplyDeleteI love that feeling of solitude and peace of being out in the snow, and the simple excitement that nature can bring us....a little hill can make me laugh hysterically (especially when my husband falls)!
I have learned to realize that the things we have bought are fun, but the free things that most people take advantage of are the things that bring me true joy! - Steph :) (see....I commented!!!)
Hugs and kisses from Carver. I can't wait for the day when he turns to me and says "I love you Mama". :) He continually melts my heart.
ReplyDeleteWhen my wife, Rachel, laughs at my jokes or comments. She is truly a blessing! We have a good time together driving, doing errands, playing racquetball...although I my body pays for it later.
ReplyDeleteI love:
ReplyDeleteTimes when my Kinder students say, "I love you Mrs. Tazelaar."
Days off.
Making Pea Soup and Pumpkin Pie today.
When your dad makes me laugh.
Audrey's snuggles and giggles (Oh Grandma!)
Looking forward to my new grandchild.
Worship.
Deciding what to knit next and who to give it to.
Hearing from friends and family (girl phone talk with you!).
Best money saving strategy: Just looking in my checkbook and realizing, uh... saving is not something I need to worry about.