Simply Simplified.

If you need some info on the actual act of simplifying, read this book! It's a quick read -- you can do it in an evening -- and it is completely realistic to me. The author describes himself as a "minimalist," but doesn't feel the need to live without. He discusses how he got tired of cleaning, rearranging, and moving the same clutter day after day...until he and his wife learned about this lifestyle. His words truly intrigued me. We have become a society that feels the need to define ourselves with STUFF, thinking it will make us happier...when the STUFF is what usually makes our stress levels rise. I mean, do my kids really need 35 Matchbox cars?? Do I really need 35 pairs of shoes -- half of which I seldom to never wear!! As a busy mommy, I always feel overwhelmed by the amount of housework that needs to be done...which I can start only after I have sorted through all the toys, mail, laundry, stuff. So, I'm taking his work to heart. The Hubs and I tackled the basement/man cave this weekend. We sorted everything into 3 piles: Keep, Goodwill, Trash. I am amazed at the difference. I now have 2 huge closets that are not only organized, but I can easily see what I need when I need it. The boys have double the play space...definitely something needed for 2 wild ones!!! (I really wish I had taken some Before and After pics!!) Here's hoping the rest of the house goes as smoothly!

Happy New Year.

So. Here we go. Once again, the entire world is looking to ring in a new year. To me, that means starting with a fresh slate...and this blog will be my slate. Honestly, I don't expect anyone to read this, but I wanted to do this for myself. My online journal. A place for me to dream, vent, create, and share. You may think this to be boring or you may find some things I say useful. Either way, feel free to let me know. Seriously. I want to know.

You may be asking yourself...what are my goals for 2012?? I probably sound like most Americans when I say I would like to be healthier. Who doesn't want to be healthier? But, you won't see me trying any crazy diets or working out for hours on end. Let's face it. I am a wife, mom of 2 little boys, and I also work 24 hours a week in a busy hospital as a Registered Nurse. So, my time to myself is precious. But I also see my time with the hubs and kids as precious too....and want to make it last as long as possible! That being said, our goal is to be healthier by GETTIN' DOWN TO THE BASICS. Hubs and I have agreed to living a more organic lifestyle...in a realistic way. I know I will never be able to keep my kids out of McDonalds...and I sometimes crave a Quarter Pounder myself...but I do want to play closer attention to the kinds of food I put into their little bodies. I know there will be some busts...but I also am hoping for days of total success...let's hope there are more of those than not!

Of course, exercise to part of this too. I need to do this, not only for my health but for piece of mind. I sleep better when I exercise. I am in a better mood when I exercise. I am just a better me when I exercise. So, here's to exercise becoming a more frequent part of each day.

Finally, hubs and I simplifying. Huh?? Basically, we are attempting to declutter in '12...so much stuff in this house is moved from spot to spot more than it is actually used. We are taking it slow...room by room...in hopes that by year's end, we will have a much tidier place, living only with the essentials...and maybe a few fun extras as well :)

SO...here's to GETTIN' DOWN TO THE BASICS!! Would love for you to come along on the journey!