on simplicity: beginnings

Four years ago, I was fresh out of college, living in a small one-bedroom apartment with my brand-new husband and struggling with the nagging feeling that somehow - life wasn't as it should be.

Or, at least, it wasn't what I thought life should be.

Those early years were a humbling time. Not only was I dealing with the inevitable growing pains of a very green and fledgling marriage, but I was constantly followed by thoughts of what I was lacking or what had to do without. I'd lament the fact that I was stuck living in a rented apartment while everyone around me purchased a home of their own. I'd wonder why things were tough financially for us even though we both had good, stable jobs.

Looking back, all I can say is - thank goodness for the benefit of time and maturity!

As our marriage grew stronger and the early kinks of domestic life worked themselves out, I found myself appreciating my husband more, which in turn made me appreciate our life together more. Instead of being discontent with my circumstances, I came to love our mismatched collection of hand-me down furniture mixed with stuff we were able to buy for ourselves. Instead of wishing for a large house, I found myself savoring the cozy intimacy of our small space.

I didn't know it at the time, but that attitude of gratefulness and contentment sowed the seeds of simplicity in my life.

Next: Less really IS more.

still here...

[ Sorry for the silence. The stomach flu knocked me out for a few days, and then we went on vacation. I'm just getting back into the swing of things and will be posting regulary soon! ]