Tackling my Debt and Simplifying My Life

[Deleted User]

Well, I stuck to my list- only bought the Christmas gifts I planned to get- no extra treats for me (first time ever!).

Usually I would have been tempted to buy new tree decs or sparkly lights, but I bought nothing! I have enough already and buying more wont make Christmas any better, in fact I'll have a nicer time knowing I havent put anymore debt on the cc.

I paid for petrol (and drove us there) and mum treated us to a lovely lunch. Things I bought for DS were practical- new dressing gown, slippers etc. I will buy more fun stuff also. Primarni was excellent as always for PJs for mum and sis.

Need to make a list of what else is needed.

I am exhausted after a day shopping (how on earth did I manage this each week before???). Off to bed, will catch up with everyone tomorrow.
GLx

clearmydebts

Another subscriber here. I really get what you mean about trying to live a simpler life. I am reading a book called 'Simplicity Parenting' and am trying to incorporate that into our lives as I have 2 little ones and quite a busy and sometimes overwhelming life.

I look forward to following you on your journey to a more fulfilling life

Scuff

Well done on not treating yourself I'm super proud, I actually thought of you today and wondered how you were getting on xx

[Deleted User]

Thanks scuff, wasn't 100% sure I could do it- but feel proud that I did.

Thank you clearmydebts, I also feel life becomes overwhelming at times, even though I am really trying to simplify things.

It's hard to live a simple, quiet life in 2012, our lives are so entrenched in technology and working to pay for such lifestyles that stepping outside the box to live in a quiet, less hectic lifestyle can be almost impossible.

A couple of years ago, when I first started reading diaries on MSE I remember reading about a lady (can't remember her user name for the life of me) who was rapidly clearing her debts in order to take herself, DH and young children to live in a yurt! I loved reading about her plans and often wonder if she did it and how she's getting on.

Although I was so interested in her plans, and quite envious really, I realise at the moment I wouldn't be able to make such a radical lifestyle change. Simplifying your life becomes more difficult with a DS who is almost 12 years old and has just started comp. For example, I love the idea of living without a TV, relying on books, radio and each other for entertainment - DS almost had heart failure when I suggested that!! Also DS is at the age when fashion and 'fitting in' with peers is so important, I am trying to help him do this whilst also reassuring him that it's ok to be different and have different views and opinions (something I have only just had the confidence to realise myself- hence trying to keep up with the joneses and buy a perfect life!).

I suppose what I'm trying to say is that I'm finding there's a fine balance between living a simple, less complicated, less busy life and living in a modern day rat-race.

Not sure if my ramblings will make any sense to anyone!! Suffice to say, I am not looking to live an extreme form of minimalism whereby all belongings are culled, I am not looking to live in a yurt (yet- they do look lovely!). I just want to life a quieter, gentler life where I am not overwhelmed or constantly tired or stressed.

I am already getting more pleasure from reading and playing games with my family than I ever did shopping for a perfect lifestyle.

I think the reason I started this post was to try to explain that I realise I sound mad- my diary title is about living a simpler life, then I spend ages talking about Christmas shopping! I wanted to say tatthe shopping this year is more mindful- lists and budgets, starting early to a avoid panic buying, and only buying those people I really need too.

So although it seems like a contradiction- the plans for Christmas are much more simple and frugal this year.

Sorry for waffling.
GLx

Ladybird.

Wise words GL! We did a whole month without a TV here once when it had to go away for repairs. Was surprisingly easy to cope without, only really missed it on the odd occasion we fancied watching a film or something in the evening. The kids didn't miss it at all, they are very young though.

Glad the Christmas shopping went well!

brizzledfw

Lovely words GL and not a waffly one on sight! Yes 'thoughtfulness' and 'enough ness' are key phrases in the book which can be quite American and dated in places but is absolutely about travelling in the right direction.

Having said that...I read it in 2003. I remember because I read it whilst BF my youngest DD..it is horrifying to think I am again in debt and supposedly had my LBM on 2003... it can't have been a 'real' one!!

Anyway onwards and upwards and I agree..Christmas 2012 we will only be making thoughtful purchases. Preferably in November so no last minute panic in December either.

Have a good eve all

Brizzle

Fae

Hello GL,

Like everyone else I think your post is lovely and some very good points about how hard it can be to try and simplify your life, I don't have children so can only guess how hard it must be to try and simplify things whilst trying to keep them happy as well. I do remember the peer pressure from when I was at school, and con only think it's that much worse now with all the gadgets and tech that seems to be around. It sounds like you are doing a great job with DS, and how lucky for him that he has the chance to learn those lessons now, rather than in a few years time, when he may have gotten into debt, hopefully you will be saving him all that.

Fae

[Deleted User]

Thank you all so very much for your kind words and for understanding and taking the time to read my posts.

I am annoyed with myself that I spent money on tins of christmas chocolates- I convinced myself that two tins (quality st and roses) for £9 was a bargain and a good start to the Christmas foodie treats- thats what I always do- talk myself into spending.

So that is it- I MUST stay out of the shops all week- by avoiding them I will not be tempted to spend.

Hope everyone is doing well.

I am having a nice evening tucked up with my little doggies (they are shaking because of the blooming fireworks). DH and DS have gone to watch the fireworks from a mountain, theyre sitting the the car eating fish and chips- simple things eh?

GLx

Ladybird.

£9 for two big tins is pretty bargainous I think, and you'll enjoy them over Christmas so I think you can let yourself off GL

clearmydebts

Lol -I have to say, there is no way I could survive without a TV!!!