The Economic Answer: Live Below Your Means

There has been a huge amount of coverage on the ongoing and ever deepening levels of the current economic crisis. It appears that a sort of domino effect is taking place. First the homeowners that can't afford to pay their monthly mortgages, then the lenders and real estate industry, followed by the residential contractors... And now it has hit the banks and even the hugest of lending institutions. Where will it end? What do the government bail-outs mean? How will they affect the average working citizen of the United States? Will our taxes go up? What does it mean? I, like many others will continue to follow the news as it happens to learn the answers to these unanswered questions.

Our food costs more, our gasoline is outrageous and small businesses are struggling to continue on. Many have actually closed or at best cut out benefits and laid off 1/2 or more of their employees to continue on. So what does all this seemingly "negative" news mean? No matter what state we are in, we have to face something as Americans that we haven't faced in many years. We have to make tough decisions to begin to live below our means. I constantly hear car commercials tempting all in ear and/or eye shot to save on gas by turning in their SUV or Van and buying a smaller more gas efficient vehicle. They offer to so very kindly take that "gas guzzler" off of our hands. Oh how kind of them??? They are selling cars... Bottom line and that is all they are interested in. It astounds me that people will actually fall for their "invitation". Buy a new car, pay more for their car payment (or pay a car payment), pay more for insurance, even property taxes in most states is more on a newer vehicle and when all is said and done they are paying maybe $300 to $500 more per month and yet somehow they justify it because they are saving on gas? It makes no sense... I heard someone recently say they were paying the $200 for 1 & 1/2 week's groceries and the same amount of money used to last 2 weeks. She said she couldn't pay all her bills because everything costs more now. What she didn't say was that they have changed what they buy... They haven't and therein lies the problem. Far too many people live in big houses they can't afford and/or drive expensive cars they can't afford and on and on. If we don't make changes we are going to be in big trouble as a nation. I have heard that fewer people are going out to eat and doing so less often and as a result many restaurants are hurting, some have closed. These are necessary changes. Even after the economy recovers (which some economists are predicting to be into 2010) we would be much better off as a nation if we begin to live below our means. How about living in smaller, more affordable homes? Consider repairing the paid off vehicle and putting monies aside for maintenance instead of buying a new vehicle? Possibly learning to make just as healthy (maybe more healthy as vegis are typically far less expensive than meat/protein) but more cost effective meals? There are so many things one can do to change the demands on their income... But are they willing to do make those changes? I think many Americans are finally coming to the point that they/we realize that it is necessary to make some hard choices if we are going to weather what may come in the next couple years.

In the meantime, let's not forget that although we have to deal with what may come, there are many millionaires that are made during the downturns. What is the difference? They refuse to stop doing the things that promote success. Don't give up on your dreams, don't stop working or quit your job, but do keep feeding your dreams and the positive thoughts and plans that keep us motivated to accomplish extraordinary things. As we make the hard choices to live on less, let's choose to exercise those things that fuel us in the positive ways: Physical activity, reading, spending time with family and friends, and living with joy and anticipation of the good to come in the things that truly matter. As you take a look at your income and outgoing Moines and make some hard but wise decisions to live below your means, don't forget to smile and love and live. Go to the park, grill the burgers and hot dogs instead of the steaks but grill! Living on less doesn't mean doing nothing and living in depression, it means choosing well and learning to live well and congratulate yourself for making those wise choices. After all, living well is not about big homes and expensive cars. Are there some here in America they may possibly have forgotten that truth? Let's all choose well and live much more and better as as a result.

Vandwelling: What? Why? How? & Should I Consider It?

VanDwelling... This article will explore VanDwelling: What is it? - Why would anyone choose to live that way? - How can one make their living space more comfortable and functional? And, should you personally consider it? Look for additional articles that discuss additional aspects of vandwelling such as: short term versus long term van dwelling, travel versus stationary vanwdwelling and more indepth preparation suggested for vandwelling.

What is it? Vandwelling simply means using a van as a dwelling as well as a mode of transportation. Those with plenty of money may be driving a Roadway or Pleasureway Camper Van with all the bells and whistles of a much larger RV, however most of them would probably refer to themselves as "RV'ers" or "Full-timers" instead of "Vandwellers". For the most part, most vandwellers are those driving converted vans. Many of those converted living spaces are self built/converted. To get an idea of what some interior set-ups look like and/or include, I have a slide show of varied samples of actual vandweller interior living spaces on my website http://www.lordandcurtiss.ws/

Why would anyone choose to live that way? Many choose this lifestyle for many different reasons. One of the most basic reasons is: life circumstances. Some vandwellers began to dwell in their vehicles as a necessity due to long work commutes. Many vandwellers started out as displaced individuals due to divorces/break-ups, loss of a job, financial troubles, a lease ending and not ready to sign another, etcetera. Often life circumstances have forced many into the lifestyle, including the current massive foreclosure dilemma of recent months. However, many times once one has experienced vandwelling and the fear of the unknown is no longer an element they find they like it! The freedom, saving monies, having the courage to be different/unique in the face of a mostly generic follow the societal guidelines world and the ability to live on less and experience so much is intoxicating.

How can one make their living space more comfortable and functional? First, consider that as a vandweller it is important to be equipped for no electricity to be available as well as being equipped for full hook-up options. It is always best to defer to the lower wattage/amperage options available in everything, especially large power draw items such as a microwave or A/C. One has to determine what their particular situation is and what they personally need and work from there. The most basic needs are the most important. So let's start there. You need a place to sleep as comfortably as possible. I have a conversion van that came with a back seat that lays down into a nice sized bed. I use a backrest with arms (for sitting up on it) and lots of pillows for additional comfort. Though the bed as is, is pretty comfortable, I also have a 2" memory foam mattress topper for additional comfort as well. There are many that don't have this option and build a wood base for a bed or use another option such as an air bed. The next basic for most, is bathroom options. Some use composting toilets, others use devices as simple as a plastic container designed specifically for either males or females. My personal choice is a hassock type simple portable toilet that one can use standard kitchen bags (that can be quickly and courteously disposed of) with the use of kitty litter to keep everything as clean and odor free as possible. I like the hassock style because they look quite harmless, it has a tight top lid, and can be topped with a cloth for use as a side table when not in use (Or just shove it out of sight). Throw in a few battery operated lights (LED lamps put out a lot of light with very little battery power!) In the warmer months try to park in the shade and have battery operated fans (some have both battery options and a power supply for electrical use.) One can use a generator or solar options but that definitely requires another article! With electrical hook-ups consider a small swamp cooler or portable A/C unit. During the winter months toasty clothing (thermal underwear, socks etc.) and a thermal sleeping bag will greatly improve your sleep conditions. For very cold nights consider a portable propane heater with a safe-off option and be sure to ventilate! (It is extremely important to leave a window partially open with a propane heater and to have the safe-off option for your safety and well-being.) With electric hook-up a small ceramic heater will do.

For the next level: Decide what you need/want and evaluate how much living space you have available. For storing and/or cooking food you may include something as simple as a cooler (I have a stainless steel cooler that keeps ice cold for 3 days to a week, depending on the outside temperatures). Some have 3 way refrigerators (AC/DC/Propane) but they can be very pricey. I like the heavy duty cooler option because it is low maintenance and of course will work whether I have electric hookup available or not. If you plan to cook, there are many options from camp stoves using propane and portable grills, low tech 12 volt warmers and even thermoses that can be used for simple cooking methods. With electric hook-ups of course there are many space saving options from the new convection portable type "ovens" that grill/steam/roast/bake in 1/2 the time with amazing results, (I have the black & stainless option of the NuWave Oven) as well as George Foreman type grills and many other options. Next, one must consider space saving organization. This can range from simple plastic containers that slide under the bed to nice organizational products especially made for clothes, pantry items, personal items etcetera. I have several black soft-sided organizational unit that aid me very well for all the aforementioned.

And finally, Taking one's personal needs and wants and putting it together with the interior design/look that refect the personal style one individually prefers make "the" space "your" space. I have black organizers and mostly stainless steel and black devices and equipment. My van interior is a nice rich beige color and I also have touches of greens, beiges and lavenders in my bedding and pillows to soften the overall look. Throw in those things that are important to you or that you enjoy. (IE: Small flat screen TV, portable DVD/CD player, reading material etcetera.) I power these simple low power usage items with a portable power station that can be powered up during the day almost anywhere. There are many many things one can do to fine tune their new small living environment.

Should you personally consider vandwelling? Remember this is MY personal opinion: If you are a single or a couple that can flourish and grow in small spaces then it is something you may want to explore. Consider the following aspects of you and your personality: Do small spaces feel cozy to you instead of claustrophobic? Do you acclimate well to non-traditional choices? Can you adapt to change? Are you in a place in life where you don't need large spaces for family members to enter often? As you read this article did you feel an excitement build or were you scared silly at the thought of vandwelling? And, finally you can actually do anything you choose to and pretty much be happy if you want to. But only you can decide if it may possibly work for you. I would suggest you google "vandwelling" and go on my website listed below and read my story on the main page and then go on the resource tab and go into some of the resource websites and explore the lifestyle option for a while before you make any radical choices.

Look for additional articles to come soon. Until then... Know that you can do most of whatever your head tells you you can do so think well. You don't have to follow the leader... You can be the leader. Just stay safe, do things honestly and legally, be respectful of others and their property, and finally enjoy life!

Blessings for Your Journeys, Brenda
http://www.lordandcurtiss.ws/
simplywhatmatters.blogspot.com

Strategizing To Live Well In A Down Economy

If you are one (like myself) that is being or has been affected by the effects of the current economy, it may be time to step back and assess what can be done differently. Do you have less money coming in? Have you been layed off or downsized? Or possibly you just can't make ends meet on what you have coming in due to the increase in your outgoing costs for the basics like gas and food. Whatever your situation is, you will find there are many ways to reduce or help subsidize your overall living expenses. By the time many of us "wake up" to the fact that things are tough and maybe won't be getting better economically right away... we are in trouble financially.

There are things we can do to rapidly and drastically change our living expenses. You may have to go outside your comfort zones a bit, but tough times call for change. Time to strategize!

• Are you living in an apartment or home where you could bring in a room-mate? Can you open up a bedroom (and bath) to rent? Check your lease agreement and make sure you are not in breach of the lease to do so. Many apartment complexes will allow a new roommate as long as they register with the property management. Home owners can most often rent out a room or share their home without restrictions.


• Do you drive to work? With gas prices so high, it has been difficult for many to continue to commute independently. Seek out others at work who may be interested in car pooling. Many cities now have car pooling directories set up. Inquire with your community, town hall or mayor's office for available options. In some larger traffic dense cities like Atlanta, there are even monetary incentives for people to begin car pooling!


• Have a plan before you shop. No more are the days of picking something up when you have no idea what you are making (or bringing home) for dinner. Develop a menu and shop for what is actually needed. It costs far less to make dinner than eat out. It can go even farther if pre-planning is involved. Shop the sales and buy with the season. Google "budget meals", "frugal meals", and "tips for saving money on food" for lots of ideas to save on your food budget. But remember a sale is only beneficial if you don't succumb to the temptation to buy something you didn't need in the first place because it happens to be "on sale". Plan your menu and snacks and shop accordingly. Make the days of shopping on the fly a thing of the past. Now, you shop smart... you are on a mission! Huge savings can be derived with just a plan.
  
• Consider buying used instead of new. Check garage sales, consignment shops, thrift stores or http://www.craigslist.org/ for items that you (or your children) need. Often you can buy gently or rarely used items for a fraction of what it would cost you to purchase new. Consider that in a couple weeks or more your new item will be in the gently used category. How much more are you paying to have that new smell for 2 weeks? If you choose and shop carefully, you can buy almost anything at a far reduced price. Many people are selling items now to make ends meet. As always use good judgment and check it out before you buy. If your gut instinct says something "doesn't feel right" no matter what it looks like, don't buy it.
  
• Find more cost effective forms of entertainment. Don't just park yourself or your family in front of the TV! There are so many great things to do for very little money. Check you local paper for free events like concerts on main street or in the park. Check out nearby walking or hiking trails, waterfalls or scenic or historic areas you can explore and enjoy. If you walk into cool shops along your way, pick up postcards or ideas (note how something is made to duplicate it or just appreciate it's artistic value - but leave it on the shelf... :). Instead of going out to dinner at your favorite restaurant either go for the lunch specials or enjoy desert anytime after you have dinner at home (consider ordering water - beverages are often the most overpriced items on the menu unless you are going to be there for a while and make use of the refills). Cook out on the grill or better yet go to a park to grill or take a picnic and let the kids play on the swings. Find a park or public area with ducks & geese (be careful of the geese they can be a little aggressive at times) and feed them stale bread. (The kids will love throwing out a few pieces of bread in the water and watching the ducks clamor to get them.) Go camping (if you don't have equipment, consider borrowing it). Check out the discount movie theatres or special pricing deals (at times at off times such as Saturday morning before noon theatres will have strongly reduced prices). Go to an arboretum and enjoy the flowers and butterflies or take a paddle boat out on a local lake... There are so many great low cost things you can do if you open yourself to new experiences and discoveries. You might find that you have been missing out on a whole lot by taking the easy road (like a big meal out and/or movies out with all the super expensive eats) of "entertainment" for so long! Hey, have fun out there! If you don't feel like getting out... why not grab a good book or put on some music (or both) and light a few candles and relax for a while. Life doesn't have to be expensive to enjoy. The simple things, laughing hilariously at a silly joke, relaxing in a hot bath to candle light, gazing out over a lake or waterfall, watching your kids play in the park, reading a good book or writing a good book, painting a sunset or watching a sun rise or set... now that's what I call living at it's best!

For the more adventurous free spirits that are open to more creative and out of the norm alternative living ideas like RV and/or vandwelling... look for a feature blog article coming soon!

For now, enjoy life and explore new ways and ideas to save monies and you will not only make it through these challenging economic times, but you may find yourself a lot richer in a lot of ways far more important than the almighty dollar! And again I say: Have fun out there! Life is meant to be enjoyed. I think many times in the USA in particular we have come to equate enjoyment and happiness with the ability to buy things or do what we want when we want it... the bigger (or more) is better concept: Go off for the weekend and stay in a hotel and then buy the big dinner and then buy the mementos and before you know it that "relaxing" weekend away costs you several hundred dollars! Instead... how about camping out by a lake, river or waterfall and enjoy activities in a state or national park... Explore beautiful trails and sites, enjoy the sights and sounds of a meal cooking over an open fire or grill while people laugh and talk and share... And at the end of the weekend, still have money to put gas in your vehicle to get to work next week! And tell me who really experienced and enjoyed the weekend?

If we allow them to, the monetary challenges many of us are facing now, just may end up fueling the very best in us. What started out as "saving money" and making ends meet, could end up being the catalyst for positively life changing experiences. Awaken, breath... take in the simply wonderful choices in life.

Handling Life Changes

Have you ever been there? All of a sudden everything in your life seems to be shifting and changing. It is very scary and yet a little exciting at the same time. All the security is suddenly gone... well the security based on earthly things that is... but it is sobering... it stuns you a bit. One minute you feel relieved that the crazy pace of the merry go round' will finally be stopping soon and the next minute you realize that although you have been spinning to the insanity of it for too long, it paid your bills, so you kept spinning until it felt almost normal for things to often spin crazily. Then one day you knew it was stopping... it was happening so suddenly that you began to hang on to columns that held it together. And then you saw it all clearly as it was slowing... it was time... time for you to get off and start the next phase of your life.

That is where I am right now. The merry go 'round is still spinning but I know it will be stopping here very shortly. And that changes everything. A life upside down... or is it? Even though it robs us of our own life and debilitates our health, do we grow so accustomed to the craziness that we accept it for the monetary security it buys us? I guess the answer in my case is yes, for a while anyway. But now the time has come... and my stomach feels nauseous (after all I have been spinning madly for quite a while now) and my head and back hurt while I try and prepare to get off the crazy ride. Soon it will stop and I will walk away. I imagine my legs will feel a little weak as they learn to steady themselves on the stable ground.

I know the direction in which I am headed and everything about it awakens me. And yet there is much preparation between now and then and many questions I don't have an answer for yet. Change is scary indeed, but it can also be liberating and exciting. Today as I am still standing on the merry go 'round and dealing with all that means, one part of me is crying inside as I am leaving all I have worked for behind... it hurts, I am sad... a grieving is happening quietly inside as I work busily preparing for that thud of a stop that I know is coming soon. And yet... as I gaze out into the future there is another part of me that I can see smiling in life as it was meant to be, breathing again... living fully again... Is that me? That woman laughing as the breeze blows through her hair? Do you see her? She is free of many things... she lives differently than some can understand and yet she is free... do you see her? I almost can now... The door that was is shutting, and I can almost see a big beautiful window beginning to open...

Living Within Your Means or Even Better Below Your Means!

Why are we in a recession, economic downtrend, or "term of your choosing"? Well, many reasons, but most of it has to do with debt in some form or another. And, the #1 cause behind it whether it be individuals or even our government, is that most of us simply lived bigger than we could afford to & have done so for a very long time! How much better would it be if we lived as many of our relatives of the yesteryears lived; below their means, saving some monies for a "rainy day" or possibly emergencies (ie: the unexpected in whatever form it appears).

What happened in the last 2 to 3 decades that has led us here?

In the 50s and 60s credit cards became more and more the norm and continually increased in popularity. By the 80s people became accustomed to buying when it suited them on their credit cards (whether they could "afford it" or not). They paid the interest to have it all "now". The problem is most of the time it was borrowed against future earnings expected. As life "happened" and the unexpected took place ie: car repairs, lost earnings at work, or unexpected expenses in any form, in addition to the fact that many people hopped around to find the work that suited them, or for whatever the reason, weren't earning as much as they were spending. In many cases that gap between earnings and expenses just kept becoming bigger and bigger until the gap became a canyon. Years of buying vehicles, homes and lots of "stuff" on credit loans and credit cards have caught up with us. Even the U.S. government has a ridiculous amount of debt compared to the 80s. I heard recently that much of the U.S. debt has been underwritten (purchased/invested in) by foreign entities and countries, including a huge portion to the Middle East! That is disturbing to me!

Today, there are scads of news stories about riding bicycles to work, spending less, and living differently. I am convinced that as difficult as the economy is on many of us, whether it be from the affects of lay-offs from companies downsizing or closing down, or homes being lost due to the too big mortgages previously committed to, or the prices up up and away on everything from gas to food, many have had to make some big changes. We as a nation are talking, walking, and spending differently for the most part. For many years most of us have been living week to week. When the economy goes haywire, that wreaks havoc on all that are living too tightly to begin with, or, worse steeped in debt.

I personally believe that if we allow it to, this can be a wake-up call for us as individuals as well as our government leaders. Often people only change when they have no other choice or their concerns outweigh their "live for the moment" mentality. The statistics confirm that many of us are currently not spending as frivolously. And the credit cards I suspect are being used mostly for survival (as a substitue for lack of savings) instead of "stuff". Far less people are buying new vehicles or homes these days. When I see and hear all the huge sales on vehicles and homes and other big ticket items, it reminds me that to be debt free today is a gift of huge proportions. Today can be the day for change, for forethought, for wisdom. I truly hope we all learn from these pivotal times that appears to have enveloped us in the latter months of 2007 and deepened in severity through 2009 thus far. Is it tough... absolutely! But I do believe we all can and need to learn the important lessons and long term benefits of living within and below our means.

All that said, those that may have been thought to be a bit off the societal paths in their thinking and/or possibly laughed at for their frugality and voluntary simplicity (from simple choices to the major off the grid folks) may now get some respect for those choices (if not some envy)! I also believe that those of us who know how to live well in simple ways; for example knowing how to camp and cook simply and even those who have downsized to live in an RV (hopefully paid for) are often ahead of the line in their/our abilities to live well in tough economic times. Suddenly knowing how to live well in a small RV or a van doesn't seem nearly as odd and ludicrous to the societal masses anymore. I am personally, so thankful to be (continually learning) and preparing to van dwell or live as simply as becomes necessary, while still enjoying the comforts that are personally important to me. I think it is a gift to be of that mindset. I feel empowered by the lessons learned by having traveled across the USA a few years ago in a small pick-up camper on my then Dodge Dakota mid-sized truck. I am glad I have been a camper and know how to live more simply if necessary. I am admittedly a gadget girl, and love my laptop and techy gadgets, and although I confess I would have a hard time without my laptop for very long, I can grill over an open fire, happily pass the time by reading a book, know just enough about using an inverter and emergency power source to get me by when needed, and if I had to I could use a simple porta potty without having a nervous breakdown over it. Those of you who are free thinkers and always enjoyed the freedom of alternative living ideas, I believe are better for it in these times. For those of you who have cringed at the thought of living without your morning $7 cup of coffee, or traveling without staying in a $100 per night hotel, there may be be some relearning and adjustments necessary along the way. But that's OK, you are bright and you can learn to do things more frugally and simpler if need be, right?

Yep, America is changing... then again maybe the bulk of the tough times will soon go away and once again everything will go back to the numbness of spending and going deeper and deeper into debt without much thought. I hope things getter better soon but I hope we don't go back to our living beyond our means and all that has brought us here. I saddley suspect being creatures of habit, that once the immediate pain has subsided many of not most will go right back to their old ways of living far beyond their means. But will you or I? No... not I, I made that choice months ago and thankfully am now debt free. I may not own a home as you do, or a new vehicle, but I have a paid for 97 GMC Safari Van and am doing OK and am very grateful not to have a bunch of debt weighing me down.

The economy is rough in other countries as well, but here in America we have been ripe for this for quite some time now. It is a rude awakening for most of us. Whether it be taking care of our individual households or running companies, things are challenging these days for many of not most of us! But we can learn and live and be ultimately better for the lessons from it.

Living within your means = Good Choice! ~ Living below your means = Wise Choice!!!

Safely and Happily Back Home

I got home from vacation this afternoon just after 5:00 PM. Vacation was good. I enjoyed it much. There were amazing moments and tough moments, but all in all it was good, really good. I learned alot about myself and others as well. I am glad however, to be home! I am writing this leaning up against my big down pillows and memory foam pillows that I know just how to organize to be most comfortable for me. Maybe "home" is not so much about what size it is or type it is but what we make of it. I find that I tend to live in limited spaces and make those spaces suit me very well. Even when I was at the cabin this week, though it has two bedrooms I pretty much lived in the main room and slept on the futon in there as well. I think the "outside" was so gloriously expansive that I didn't need so much space on the inside. Yep... Maybe it is much more about what we do with the "space" we have. For me if I am comfortable and cool (I don't like being hot) I am in good shape. Add in a few simple comforts and I am a happy woman. I guess I'm pretty low maintenance!

I had time towards the end of the weekend with my Mom, my extended family and last night and today some good one on one time with my 26 year old son. When I left to drive home, I was satisfied with the time I spent on vacation, both by myself and with others. It wasn't perfect as life rarely is. But overall, it's been a good week. Even the tough stuff seemed to find resolution. I have also made strong personal commitments (to myself and God) to doing the things that will improve my health and fitness. I guess you could say the quiet time allowed me to see and hear more clearly what truly does matter.

Tonight, I don't feel alone or lonely, I feel satisfied and thankful. I am very glad to have tomorrow to do laundry, do my hair and just relax before going back to work on Monday and facing the deluge of decisions and tasks that will be awaiting me. It's OK though... I'm ready to back until it is time for me to make my more permanent escape to those mountains that seem to call my name. For now, I will go back in September for the labor day weekend. In the meantime, I invite you to do some simple things for yourself: Light a fragrant candle, take a hot bath with candles and music, lay back on comfy pillows and read a good book, listen to some awesome music, call someone and tell them you love them, forgive someone who has hurt you and then forgive yourself, write, pray, sing, laugh... Enjoy your life. It truly is the simple things that matter.

Blessings for Your Journey, Brenda
www.LordandCurtiss.ws

Just Keep Moving & You May Find Yourself In the Midst of Your Bliss

This is my last night at the cabin in the GA mountains. Vacation so far has been wonderful... not big huge roller coaster rides, instead hearing and smelling the rain saturating the forest around me, sitting on the cabin porch in a big cedar rocker hearing the birds singing in the morning and the crickets chirp at night. Simplicity and quiet... it has been so good for me. Right now the movie "Hope Floats" has just come on and I am about to shut down my laptop to watch it. I smiled when I saw it was coming on. It is one of those movies I enjoy watching from time to time. Sandra Bullock plays Bertie, a woman who is stunned on a talk show when her "best friend" confesses that she had been having an affair with her husband for a year. The reality of it all starts with her (their) young daughter shown sitting in the front row of the show crying her eyes out. The movie goes on to tell Birdie and her 8 year old daughter's tale of starting over. It is sad and funny and filled with a lot of deep truths beyond the simple lines. It reminds me that life isn't perfect, people are often far from perfect, but somehow things seem to work out for the best more often than not. The secret is in learning the lessons and moving forward... keep moving forward. When we learn the lessons of life, even those thrust upon us, it can often turn out that the devastation can be catalyst for better things if we just keep moving forward... past the pain into the new path.

Ok yeah I am a bit reflective. I guess it is obvious I have been here by myself for 3 days. :) It has been good for me to relax and not have the stress and crazy pace of work. And, now I am ready to go and pick up my mom in SC to head out for a couple days to the NC mountains. We are staying a couple nights in a very nice B&B. I have never stayed in a B&B before. I am kind of a private person and just never desired to. However, this seems like the perfect place to enjoy and be a bit pampered out in a beautiful little NC resort town (also) in the mountains. I know mom is excited about going, and I am as well. Then back to SC for family 4th of July & Birthday celebrations.

On "Hope Floats" Bernice (the little daughter) was just introduced in her new small town school. They moved from Chicago back to the small town where her mom and dad grew up. You see I know the end of the story. And though there is a lot of pain and messiness along the way, it ends up that she knows who she is. It ends up better, I believe, than if she had stayed in a marriage that she wasn't fully alive and well. Maybe I like the movie because it is so much like life. It's just not all pretty stuff. I am glad I have had time to reflect and sit and be quiet without the diversions that so often overwhelm us so loudly in our society. I will miss these mountains. But I will be back in September for the Labor Day weekend. Until then I am really going try not to get so sucked up into working all the time and not living outside that as much as I should. In the meantime... I have more vacation to enjoy.

I am laughing... this little girl is a hoot... she really stole the show. What a little actor she is. I guess when someone is full of life and genuine spirit it just has to shine out. I pray I will bloom and shine and make a difference wherever I am.

Blessings to You & Yours as you discover your place and purpose. (Even if that means you have to get a bit scratched up by some thorns along the way...) Signing off for now...

~Brenda of http://www.lordandcurtiss.ws/

Relaxation and Restoration... Ahhhhhh...

I am on vacation! I am up in the mountains in a little cabin with lush forested greenery all around me. Ahhhhhh... I can breath again... Just beyond me is a sparkling lake that meanders around much of this area, and all of this is surrounded by picture postcard mountain ranges. And with all this I can still get internet and phone service... this must be heaven!

Speaking of heaven, I have a copy of the book "Heaven" by Randy Alcorn with me. Several people have told me that reading it has been life changing. I also have an excellent book about writing successful ebooks. Today and tomorrow, that is the central focus of my vacation: reading, writing and relaxing! I do plan to amble around here a bit this morning and then basically read and relax in this quite comfortable cedar wood rocking chair with the awe-inspiring scenic views surrounding me. No Disney World or Dolly World's needed. The big theme parks and man made excitement definitely have their enjoyment factors when one is in that frame of mind. (I have been to both in recent years {when my son was younger} and enjoyed them.) But this... relaxing here in the mountains in a simple little cabin surrounded by such perfect beauty that I can't help but deep down smile, this is like "coming home" for me. It feels right to be here. I can think and breath in such an easy unencumbered way. This is where I want to end up, not only in this and other scenic and ambience rich areas, but in this state of being.

Enough of my day dreaming. It's currently 10 AM and since I didn't have to get up at 5:30 AM to get myself together and fight the metro traffic to go to work today, I think I will get myself together and meander around the area for a bit. I'm up for taking in the sights and sounds of a waterfall about now. Ahhhhhhhh.... OK I admit it is hard for me to quit taking those deep satisfying breaths... I do love this. Maybe this is all just "on loan" to me for a while (I have to go back to work next week after all) but it reminds me of who I really am and what makes me feel alive and well. I have been moving at such a pace for so long now and so much of my life has been work related, that I essentially forgot what this feels like. This is why so many people are embracing simpler lifestyles. For me, this freedom and restoration already taking place in me is healing. Ahhhhhhh.....

The Economy From A Close-Up View

I was just reading an RV Newsletter and one of the featured reports was about the long-time owner of a large multi-location RV dealership in CA. Of his 8 locations, 2 closed earlier this year and he is currently liquidating all his inventory to close the final 6. Prior to that story, I read one about a number of primarily large motorhome manufacturers that are closing their doors and the effect that will have on current owner's warranties. It is everywhere... the reports pour in... Many companies that up to the second half of last year were strong and profitable, now have layed off half of their staff in the last few months and currently are barely hanging on. Many of these business owners that have been in business for many years are now just hoping to make it through the end of the year without having to close down!

I sit here on a Saturday morning reading my online newsletter and once again am stunned by the broad scope of the declining economy. I am the manager of a southern-based, national professional pre-tax planning firm. We have a marketing department to invite business owners to receive a free consultation regarding how utilizing the IRS tax law code through pre-tax planning will greatly benefit them and their business. The truth is that in this down economy it can help people tremendously as it not only saves them tax dollars but increases their net worth. Whoops... got side-tracked lol... So the point was that we call on hundreds of business owners every week to offer our complimentary consultation and information What we have found is that in the last quarter of 2007 and ongoing this year, many businesses that formerly were very strong and profitable are barely hanging on right now. Many of them have layed off up to 90% of their employees. We hear the stories every day. It is staggering... business that formerly were paying over $300,000 in annual federal income taxes, now their profits down by 75% or more. We hear the same stories often from small companies to very large companies... I continue to be stunned by how wide spread and devastating it is across the United States. Although mortgage lenders, real estate, title companies and builders are typically the hardest hit, it has affected all kinds of businesses regardless of size or type. It is very sad and disconcerting to see so many people hurting and struggling to keep the companies going that they have invested themselves into, most often for many years.

It has hurt us as a company as well. Because even though the fact is that our services would help these companies, we can't help them unless the remain a company with a strong enough anchor to keep going (paying at least $40,000 in annual federal income taxes). As an adult that has a close-up view to the economy, I have never seen anything like it... It is truly sobering.

Altough I believe the economy will become much stronger within the next year, I am personally preparing for whatever may come. I believe in NOT living in the biggest home that I can sorta kinda afford and/or driving a vehicle I can barely afford to insure, much less pay the monthly payments on. I say that because I am surrounded by people who do just that. Most of the people where I work (and others I know as well) pay far more for rent or a mortgage than I do. I choose to rent a portion of a home (bedroom and bath with run of the home) in a nice community for 1/2 of what it would cost me to rent an apartment. I drive a 97 GMC Safari van and keep it maintained instead of making payments on a newer vehicle. That alone helps me to save monies and have the ability to give when many are struggling just to keep their monthly bills paid. I think we have gotten to a point as a society that we are in a kind of stupor about what we really need. I know far more people that cry and struggle and stress to pay the mortgages on their big homes and loans on their late model vehicles than those who don't. With gas prices astronomical and food costs way up, it is a tough pendelum to live by! Jobs keep going down - costs of living continue to rise!

In the USA the norm has been to have newer, bigger or multiple for so many years. Suddenly, there has been a screeching halt for many... it had to happen at some point... it is pretty devastating to see so many people hurting. There are ways to reduce living expenses dramatically but many people either don't know how to or have been so far removed from that thinking that they just keep trying to maintain what they once barely could and now wasting what resources they have to try and keep their world as it was, for a while longer.

I believe that some of the unconventional and not widely understood ways of living that also reduce living costs greatly is more important now to consider that any time in my 50 years. Particularly a single or couple can easily save major monies living part or full time in a small RV or van or doing a number of other things to greatly reduce expenses. Maybe even more of the mainstream will begin to see the beauty and enjoyment of a simpler less encumbered lifestyle. I personally enjoy my laptop, a nice personal DVD/CD player and a small flat screened TV as well as my beloved Kindle (Amazon.com reading device)... I am not without my comforts... But I can afford the few choices I make because I am not paying for the big house and late model car. I love the freedom that preparing for an even simpler life (vandwelling) allows me. I always know that no matter what happens I will have a roof over my head and am developing alternative ways to make enough income to subsidize my minimal needs.

I recently have seen several news stories about people who were "forced" to leave their homes and live in their motor homes or vans. The reporters refer to them many times as homeless... no they aren't... they just have a smaller, simpler home! There will always be seasons that incur emergencies, tough times and/or difficulties in life. Whether we choose to live simply long term or intermittenly, in most cases we can drastically reduce our living costs. Fruther, it is when we choose to own our lives and make the best of our situations whether we choose it or it is thrust on us that defines the difference between a victim mindset and a visionary...

Blessings, Brenda of www.lordandcurtiss.ws

Who am I & What is "Simply What Matters All About?"

First: I am currently entrenched once again in a very demanding management position. My job demands all of me and that's a good thing in many ways. I am satisfied that I do my job well and believe that every once in a while I do make a difference there. I try to mentor a couple of the younger managers to turn things over to when the time is right to do so. I have been on the all encompassing fast pace again for a while and am preparing to simplify my life greatly within the next year. For me that means making preparations in a number of ways including my health and fitness (or lack there of at present), saving as much as I can without reducing giving or doing the things I feel God led to do (I don't want to be self serving or without gratitude or forget Who put me in this position in the first place!) and lastly I am building my passion online and endeavoring to support myself by sharing things I feel enhance lives. Choices... Wow they are so important. I don't always make the right one myself, but I keep moving forward and I draw on God and His direction as I know and am quite thankful to say that I have learned that nothing begins and ends with me! HE is the component that makes it all work out as it should... I just have to put my hand to it and do my best to follow after what is authentically who and what I am and am responsible for. I am not the average woman who believes choices need to be based upon what society dictates. I never have really... March to a different drummer as they say. But I have found there are others like me out there... Maybe you here reading my blog... This blog is about living authentically, making choices that simply matter for me and what I believe I am called to be and do. Sometimes that just may mean what feels right coupled with an authentic confirmation of the paths I am to walk... What I know to be true deep within me. The following is an excerpt taken from my website: www.LordandCurtiss.ws just to give you a birds eye view of my "outside the societal box" thinking and a bit about me in this journey I am on...

I am a 50 year young, God loving divorced mom of one adult son. I have spent most of my life working far more hours than I should. I am very responsible and have always worked myself to the ultimate (& at times ridiculous) to build other people's businesses... And I have been pretty successful at it! At the same time, most of my life I have been a single parent, so though I made a decent income compared to many women in my shoes, living on one income and paying all the bills solo, I didn't have anything extra for savings. Often I felt like I worked from can 'til can't, and the only thing that kept me going was the ongoing motivation to provide a good home and environment for my then "growing up" son. I have gotten burnt out from time to time amidst the mad crazy pace of management and business life, but I've always ended back in the rat race due to the responsibilities and demands of being a single mom for the most part. Since my son is now grown and a man on his own, after my current corporate management "gig" is over (I plan to make that happen before my next birthday) I will then fulltime and travel using my van as a home base while supporting myself primarily through my online businesses, occasional consulting and speaking engagements, and my true passion: writing.

How did I come to discover this free (& honest) nomadic gypsy spirit that lives inside of me? First, I always have been drawn to small spaces inside, and wide open scenic vistas outside; love nature, love scenic beauty, love exploring, love uniqueness and discovery of all kinds. I loved every movie I saw with the actors living in a well kept RV or travel trailer actually, although I don't remember the names of the movies, those are the "clips" that live in my head: an older woman with a bird on her shoulder sitting at the table of the nice travel trailer she lived in since her husband died, she was happy and at peace though others didn't understand her choices. Another movie I remember vividly was about 2 women who traveled the country heading to Canada (with breathtaking footage along the way). An unhappy waitress who joins them along the way has a very unique personalized (too pink and frilly for me but cool nevertheless) travel trailer that she just gives away without thought when she meets the "man of her dreams". (What????? Don't give that away!!! What was she thinking???) As long as I can remember I have been drawn to the gypsy life, from the travels to the ornate cozy gypsy wagons, travel trailers, and small RVs and campers to the biggest perk of all: Independence and Freedom to live life outside the "societal box".

Thanks for visiting my blog. Please feel free to pop back in as there is much more to come... I hope to get to know others and get feedback from both those who share my passions and even from those who may think I'm a bit touched... :) That's OK, we each have our own path to walk and mine does not take away from yours and yours does not take away from mine. So lets immerse ourselves into life, our lives and make the choices based upon: "Simply What Matters".