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| LOC: View from the Butler's pantry at a Base Commander's home, CA. |
There is an art to managing a home and making things comfortable on a budget. We are often led to believe that we have to buy things all the time. There is encouragement to redecorate and to replace older items in the house. An abundance of beautiful furnishing and decor are always on sale, leading us to want more than we can afford.
The difference between need and want can be confusing. For example, we have an old recliner that we inherited about 10 years ago from a family member. It has worn out so much that it is broken in a few places. We want a new one, but that is not possible. Instead of seeking out a replacement chair (thrift stores and free options are limited in our rural county) we will keep doing our best to make it last. Another option for creative homemaking, in this case, is to find other furniture in the house that can be rearranged and made more comfortable. We do the best we can with what is already on hand. (I realize that many would consider a decent chair a need, and I do agree, but when there are far more pressing financial needs, a decent chair becomes less important.)
An example of actual need comes in the category of heat for the coming winter. Very soon it will get bitterly cold here in Vermont. I am surprised that it has already gotten chilly here with many rainy, cool days. We will need a kerosene delivery earlier this season than normal. The cost to heat our home is a need. This is why we don't buy a new chair and why we put off (and delay) other possible spending.
Another example of the needs of the household has to do with clothing. I have needed a new winter coat for years. I have mended the lining a few times and made it last year after year. But it has gotten shabby and is no longer keeping me warm. I have a small amount of money saved towards this necessary expense, but am taking my time trying to find just the right coat that will fit me and actually keep me warm this winter. We also live in a rural area with limited stores available. This makes it more complicated to shop and find just what I need. We are getting ready to go on one of our medical trips in the next state, in just a few days. I hope to look in the local shops there and find a suitable coat at a reasonable price. That would be such a blessing!
We homemakers do have to spend money. There are basic needs that are essential. But the difference between being frugal and being wasteful has to do with our level of contentment. I can walk into a shop and admire all the nice things without wanting to buy anything. I know I can go home and clean and organize and re-arrange things to brighten up our lives and make things pleasant with creativity and hard work.
If we can remember to want less and to be at peace with what we do have, we will be more content. Spending time taking care of our possessions and homes will keep us busy and active. This will leave less energy for shopping and eventually we will lose interest in buying things.
One of the nicest things about using a little money for basic needs is that we can pray to the dear Lord for guidance and help. We depend on Him for everything and this creates a bond of closeness as we pray. We ask the Lord to open the way for affordable food, clothing, and shelter. And we praise Him and thank Him for every single blessing, each and every day of our lives.
Blessings
Mrs. White
From the Archives -
Encouragement - Poor and Pretty Living.
What it Means to Be - Just a Housewife.
Some Help - The Secret to a Clean House.
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"Serving in the Kitchen: Cookbook with Recipes, Advice, and Encouragement for the Christian Home"
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5 comments:
There is a huge difference between needs and wants, I agree. God provides for our needs and blesses us when we are content. Blessings, Mrs. White!
Hi Mrs. White.
I found a nice warm jacket on the Blair website. It is called Mt. Rushmore parka. It's lightweight, has pockets and a hood and it covers just above your knees. I found it true to size. They always offer discounts for new customers. Hope this is in your price range. Take care . Bun
I would suggest hunting out any Goodwill shops near to where the medical appointments take place. Here, on 'the other side of the pond', I am often amazed at the good quality clothes that are on offer in charity shops. Some are even brand new with the tags on. Most hold back cold weather clothing during the warmer months, but are now getting ready to put it out for sale. You may be surprised at what is on offer and it is nice to support a good cause too. x
I have a shelf unit in the basement that I rotate decorative items from. Everything is organized seasonally. This way, I “shop” in my basement to freshen up the look around our home:). It does keep me from shopping and I usually forget things that are there, lol, so it can be a pleasant surprise:). Thank you as always for your thoughtful posts! Mrs. K. Hagema
Good morning dear Mrs. White ~ the last two paragraphs really were encouraging.
"If we can remember to want less and to be at peace with what we do have, we will be more content. Spending time taking care of our possessions and homes will keep us busy and active. This will leave less energy for shopping and eventually we will lose interest in buying things.
One of the nicest things about using a little money for basic needs is that we can pray to the dear Lord for guidance and help. We depend on Him for everything and this creates a bond of closeness as we pray. We ask the Lord to open the way for affordable food, clothing, and shelter. And we praise Him and thank Him for every single blessing, each and every day of our lives."
Being content with what God has already given us and gives us daily is such a blessing.
I pray that you will find just the right coat for you, at a bargain.
Thank you for your encouraging posts. ~ FlowerLady
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