I finally did it…my throw pillows & shams on my bed are a thing of the past. My husband so kindly asked how they fit into my idea of minimalism, “What use do they serve? We are just moving them from here to there.” Isn’t that what I said in a previous post was wasting my time? True, there is an element of aesthetics involved, but isn’t an uncluttered living space just as tranquil if not superior?
I am recalling a screen in a movie where a man and woman are arguing over this exact subject. He takes a knife and begins to rip open the pillows…no need here. The extra pillows are gone. They are being donated to someone who an actual use for them, perhaps..
As we educate ourselves on natural and sustainable life choices so many other topics begin to become appealing: homesteading, minimalism, locavore eating, zero waste life choices to name a few. They all center around improving the quality of our daily life while lessening the surrounding distractions. I can honestly say that very few items I own truly add value to my life. They are just ‘there.’ In actuality all the stuff is drowning out my passion and energy that I’d rather be spending on more enjoyable pursuits.
I am dreaming of a tranquil uncluttered living space. I can see the surfaces, clean and uncluttered. They are not littered by the latest items set down until who knows when. Instead each flat surface holds only one or two items that contribute value to our life – creating a peaceful environment. The floor space in each room is clear and visible without the boxes and bags that have recently filtered into the room without a designated home.
As this month begins, my husband and I have agreed to a re-match of a minimalism game created by the Minimalist blog. Each day we will rid our home of unnecessary clutter. The number of items will be dictated by the day of the month. For example, today is September 1st so we will each choose one item to donate, tomorrow September 2nd we will each choose two items, until the end of the month when we each must choose 30 items. To add to the challenge, our items must find a new home. It will be a Zero Waste challenge in that aspect. The items will not be irresponsibly thrown into the landfill! My goal is to share pictures of our items each day.
Join us this month as we celebrate life by playing The Minimalist Game!
Started the game too. Have actually about 4 others joining me. Mom decided to start backwards, ie 30 items on the first etc. fun!!!
I’m thrilled to hear the news! It will be an exciting adventure. We’ve set up a reward to attain at the end of the month if we can reach our goal of finishing. I’m going to post a blog entry each day with pictures of our items. It’s the boys vs. the girls!