The Shabby House

A Kitchen in 1925. (LOC)

 

In our old 1800's house, there are many things that need attention. When I compare this place to what is seen on commercials and on television programs, it would seem that my house is not in very good condition.  A visitor might think we need new flooring and carpeting.  New paint in many of the rooms would certainly freshen things up. Many of the rooms would also look dreamy with new pieces of furniture. But all these changes would cost a great deal of money.  I could not even imagine spending money for such things when cash is needed for much more important items.

I recently looked at some pictures of my childhood home.  I grew up in the same house where my grandparents had raised their own children. The old wallpaper, furniture, and flooring, were old and worn. While we were living there, it just felt like home to me.  It was loved and cared for. We decorated and made things look nice with our cleaning and organizing.  We were happy in our humble home and considered it to be beautiful. Is it possible that just a few generations ago, people were less likely to spend money on fixing things up?

There is a motto of making do, making things last, or going without. This is a thrifty way of life that encourages us to take care of what we do have, while living within our means. It is certainly nice to have pretty things and to do repairs and maintenance as we are able. It is nice when we can get new curtains or blankets, bringing cheer and comfort to the family. These are lovely things to do when it is possible. But it must not be the entire focus of our spending. 

The other day I got out the ironing board and was ironing scraps of fabric for a home sewing project. I thought about the home arts and the comfort of old-fashioned, domestic life. I was grateful for my surroundings and the ability to be at home and to be here for my family. I felt thankful.

The money we do have must be prayed over and spent in a cautious way. The basic expenses of food, heat, car maintenance, and electricity cost a great deal. It requires budgeting and careful planning to make ends meet each month. 

 In just a few days, I will need to take our patient on one of our medical trips into the next state. It takes effort and sacrifice to come up with enough money to meet this need.  When there are medical trials and expenses, it really makes you think differently about modern ways of spending. The goal should be to always try to save for rainy days. 

This is why I cannot even fathom the idea of buying new things or upgrading our house. We do our best to live simply with few wants or needs. Our house may seem shabby to some, but it is a place for which I am so grateful to have. My surroundings, and all that we have, reminds me of a museum of graceful and humble living of quiet days at home, from many years ago. 

Blessings

Mrs. White

From the Archives -

A Blessed Way of Life - Old Fashioned Duty of a Homemaker.

A Bit of History - Just a Housewife.

We Must Learn -  To Earn and Not to Spend.

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Now Available from The Legacy of Home Press:

Old Fashioned Homemaking: Essays and Encouragement from a New England Housewife by Mrs. White

176 pages, paperback

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