Reducing Expenses

Library of Congress: Farm couple doing their bookkeeping at home in 1930.

In an effort to keep our expenses as low as possible, I have been enjoying some quiet, around the property, here in Vermont.  I am doing this to create a feeling of contentment for a simple life. I am thinking more and more about old fashioned living.

Normally I would have a CD of old hymns playing quietly in the background. Or perhaps I would leave the television on after watching an old DVD of something like a Deanna Durbin movie, or some old black-and-white tv show. I am remembering to shut these things off, and unplugging what is not in use.  I am watching and listening to less technology.   This will help keep our bills low because I am not thinking of something to buy. I am not running up the electric bill.  Watching television or listening to a CD are wonderful things to do, but must not take up all of our time.  These are for times of recreation. We cannot be resting all day long watching television unless we are ill.  In my childhood home, my parents had a small, portable black-and-white television. It was probably stored in a closet somewhere because we never saw it unless one of us was sick in bed.  Then it was brought out to give us some amusement while we convalesced in our room.

I have been walking the property, here at our humble Estate.  The sound of the birds singing, the rushing of the river, and the gentle feeling of the blowing wind are quieting to the mind.  I see little purple and blue wildflowers appearing on the lawn.  I see the trees and garden coming back to life, after a long, sleepy winter.  All these sights and sounds of nature bring a sense of joy to the heart, and a gentle feeling of contentment.

In previous generations, it was more common to live a life of careful thrift. This included wise spending, careful use of resources, and a consistent habit of saving.  The goal here was always to avoid waste.  Good financial management meant a cautious and orderly outlook when it came to the use of money. There was waiting, thought, and patience involved in overseeing the family funds.  Budgets, bills, and income were important considerations in planning for spending and saving.  This wisdom is still necessary today.  

We can reduce expenses in thoughtful, creative ways while still enjoying each day.  It is a blessing to have a little pocket money to spend, as long as the bills are being paid and there is a clear plan of saving. We must always save for a rainy day.  These come regularly over the years.  If we can find ways to avoid wasting money and choose instead to be orderly in our spending, we will have a great deal more peace and contentment in our lives.

Yesterday, as I washed the dishes in the kitchen sink, I looked out the back window and saw the rushing river on the border of our property.  It was a beautiful sight and makes me think of a vacation or a haven from the worries of the world.  A great deal of our time is spent in doing things: being productive, cleaning, cooking, taking care of the family, and (in an unhurried, pleasant way) going about our daily work.  This daily labor, of creating and caring for a happy home, costs nothing.  Being busy with this common labor, with a grateful heart, will naturally lead to less spending.

Blessings

Mrs. White

From the Archives -

What Many of us Crave - An Ordinary Life at Home.

Finding Genuine Happiness at Home - Peace be Upon This House.  

Old Time Frugal Living - A New England Winter on a Small Income.  

 

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For old time encouragement in living simply on a limited income, order Mrs. White's book:

"An Old Fashioned Budget: Humble Financial Management for the Christian Housewife"

This slim, 77 page, paperback book is available for sale through Amazon.