A Money Freeze

This morning's view of a lake near Mrs. White's home in Vermont.

Just before we did our grocery shopping today, we stopped at one of the lakes to take a quick walk.  The early morning view of the water was so restful.  The mountains and the sky are beautiful.   It reminds one to stop and enjoy the roses in life.  It is simple living without any cost or expense.  Much of what we do with our time does not require a bill or an expense.  Spending time doing lovely things can bring far more happiness than a shopping trip.

This has been a month of dedicated savings. Just before July started, I decided to put a stop to all spending other than the very basics and the bills.  This meant that I would not be stocking up on groceries. I would put off all spending that could wait another month or two.   And I certainly would not buy a single thing, on a whim, even if it would have made me smile and only cost a dollar or two.  This type of financial decision builds discipline. There are times when we are forced into such circumstances which is very unpleasant. But sometimes we need to redirect our focus in order to stay on track.  We can get so caught up in the fun of summer and forget that hard times are coming with a frigid winter.

As we prepare for the days ahead, it is a good idea to practice the art of doing a money freeze.  This is what a business does when they are concerned about losing money. They have to take action to get their finances under control or the business will be lost.  The goal here is to learn to go for a certain amount of time without any pocket money.  This means we do not spend freely as if we were on vacation.  We stick to a careful budget and follow a financial plan.  When we come out of the freeze, our outlook should be much better than it was when we started.  We should feel more content and at peace. This is a great accomplishment to overcome the culture's example of spending money all the time.  

One of the things I did this month was focus on the traditional work of home.  We have been enjoying the work of the garden. We've gathered strawberries, blueberries, and sweet peas.

 

Shelling peas from our garden.

Walking the property and taking care of the home has been a productive and pleasant part of each day. We are in the habit of doing things rather than buying things. It is a lovely way to live and an incredible example to the younger generation whether or not they appreciate the old ways.

Now that this month has nearly come to an end, I have to get serious about preparing for winter.  Next month will be the time to stock up on as much as I can to be sure my household is safe, warm, fed, and happy.  This will take a great deal of effort, sacrifice of personal wants, and planning. Yet no matter what I do, it will not work unless I seek the Lord's will and blessing on each and every decision.  In the end, that is what really matters.  

Blessings

Mrs. White

 

From the Archives -

The Old Time Families need this - Cash for Winter.

 Some Help - The Secret to a Clean House.

Making the best of what is available to cheer the family along - Homemade Birthday Dinner.

 

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