"Downsizing" is kind of the buzz-word of the new economy. Although it is a new popular term and to some a negative one, there is a plus side to all this downsizing that I just can't help but think needs to be brought to light. Recently, we have done our second and third phase of downsizing. So, if you don't mind, let me share with you some of the interesting 'plusses' I've found out this last month after some major downsizing.
Plus #1 - Less stuff means less mess! No, really. Sounds too simplistic doesn’t it? Freedom from extra junk is really quite nice.
Plus #2 - Others need my extra stuff more than I do. It is a blessing to know that if we didn't sell it (which was cheaper to someone than buying it new) or we gave it away (to avoid the cost of moving it/ and due to lack of space in the new smaller place) someone else is being blessed with our previous items.
Plus #3 - Smaller homes clean much faster! I am not kidding! I can clean this 900 square foot little cottage in no time flat! I don't mean just tidy up a bit, I mean all the way from dusting, sweeping, mopping it all (all hardwood floors), dishes away, the one bathroom (tub/toilet/counter/mop) and kitchen scrubbed to completion. If someone pitches in to help it's done in about 10 minutes! SWEET!
Plus #4 - No more Electricity bill Shock! In our old home, our winter bill averaged $385.00 a month - while using a fireplace. This had more to do with the lack good heating and poor insulation than anything. In our new downsized place, I got the bill yesterday (drum-roll please) $60! That is with daily heat running all month!
Plus #5 - Limited space and limited stuff means better organization! This I like. Putting things away in the kitchen (which is about 1/16 of the size of my previous one) requires a 'Jenga' type configuration - but there is less to put away. Any one thing out of it's place upsets the delicate balance of storage. So everyone is careful to put things where they go.
Plus #6 - Even the littlest mess shows up fast in a smaller place - yes that's a good thing......because in tight quarters, more people notice that and rather than pass it due to the space to skirt around it, the mess gets addressed. (o:
Even though the term 'downsizing' may sound like you're losing something, it is not at all accurate. Downsizing helps you notice and appreciate the small things. (o:
Hope you will enJOY the journey!
Best Blessings!
Donna
Donna Miller is an author, teacher and entrepreneur. Her favorite roles are that of wife and mother to three home-school graduates. Living with a Homesteading Mindset in the country, the city and suburbs has been an adventure! The Millers own and operate Millers Grain House which offers Organic and Chemical-free Whole Grains, Bosch Mixers, the NutriMill, instructional tutorials, recipes and more. Listen to her Radio Show – Live or Archived at: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/millersgrainhouse
