Reposting this because I'm still doing this and it works!
Before I get started writing about the simplicity of one, can I just say how much I love the above arrangement? Seriously, since we moved here that area, situation, whatever you want to call it has made me crazy. For the record, that spot isn't crazy, I am 😁. Anyway, there is just something about the unfussiness of it that soothes me everytime I walk in the house.
Ok, soooo, the simplicity of one is nothing new. Like why do we keep 2 potato peelers, or 25 pairs of black shoes or 52 tubes of red lipstick? I understand the less stuff lying around makes life a lot easier and peaceful.
But since Larry passed away I'm now on a fixed income. Can't believe I even typed that but it's true. Ugh, not the fixed income, I just miss him so much😞. Being on a fixed income means I now have limits on my money. I quit my job to take care of L and really don't want to go back and re-build my clientele and all that goes with that. So I've decided to learn to live within the limits of this income and the limits of my home and garden.
When I wrote out my budget I thought of several different ways I could go about it and settled on the idea of one. What if I just filled my gas tank once a month? Could I live within that limit? Turns out I can. Can I do one load of wash per week? Why yes I can. Can I go to the market once a week, that's easy. What else can I cut down to one? The list is endless and it has simplified so much for me. I used to run errands and toss clothes in the wash and ran to the grocery whenever I needed anything. Now a lot more thought goes into my daily routine and it works for me. I realize this won't work for everyone but maybe it could be the simplicity of 2 or 3 or what works for you. The idea is to live purposefully and think before just mindlessly going about your day. The best part is, with a little thought, I'm making it on my one paycheck a month.
Also, before I go, I want to thank you all again for your love and support. Would you like more posts about money? It's one of my favorite subjects but talking about it is generally frowned upon by society. So let me know what you'd like to see more of here on the blog. I make a v small amount of money writing it and will even tell you exactly how I make money here if that interests you. Take care and have a great Sunday. x
Good Sunday morning, Janet. Glad you're doing well and getting on with your new normal. I thoroughly enjoyed this post and would love more like it. Money and the management of it is one of my favourite subjects as well.
ReplyDeleteSue
xo
As I move toward retirement in the next few years, I am more focused on what's important to me, where and how I spend my money and how much is truly enough. Living a big life in a small and simple way becomed more important all the time. Yes, I'd love to hear whatever you want to share about this transition time in your life; one we will all face at some point. I never turn down insight on how to handle life (and money!) with grace, dignity and aplomb.
ReplyDeleteWe're cheering you on from the sidelines!
xo
I love what you said here, Katie. I want that insight as well.
DeleteI enjoy all of your posts, so feel free to write whatever whispers to you to be typed; I will be here reading.
ReplyDeleteThat said, reflections about living a simplified life have particular appeal for me.
I look forward to your posts, no matter the topic! So please continue to post what you like :)
ReplyDeleteYes, love hearing about how people manage on a modest income. The problem today, I fear, is that people tell us we need FAR more money to even exist than we really do. When my mother was dying, I gave up my career work (age 49) and just never wanted to go back. We decided we could live on one (not wealthy) income. We've done it so well. It's given us the ability to live and work and be together and for me to make and organise our home which I love doing (like you). We live small - and we're currently renting - living with an old friend whose wife passed away suddenly form cancer. Not sure where we'll go next and will probably end up buying a tiny home somewhere in Europe - who knows? I'd love posts on money and daily life management from you. I used to enjoy your shopping bills series!
ReplyDeleteThank you so much for this, Janet. For every aspect of your thought/feeling process here. I can do this too. I would love to. It so much appeals to me! It calls my name. I'm thinking of the old book/movie, "The Power of One". I'm inspired by this nugget of an idea. I can feel it expanding in my heart and mind even as I'm writing this quick reply. ALSO... I too love absolutely everything you write. I will read it all and enjoy. Happy Sunday to you. XO
ReplyDeleteJanet, I honestly love anything you post about! I plan on retiring in about 3 1/2 yrs. & am now questioning a lot of the purchases that I/we make so a lot of what you mention hits home. Would love to hear more about your money mgt. decisions! I as well love your living room vignette! Very serene, elegant & peaceful! Please take care & know that you are often in my thoughts. Sending love & a big hug! Katie from Huntington Beach
ReplyDeleteFirst, I hope that many dear memories of your beloved husband have sustained you through this time of loss. I think you are very brave, Janet.
ReplyDeleteI love your thoughts of the simplicity of one. There is so much we can do to simplify our lives. It makes for a much more peaceful existence. Hubby and I now live in a small townhouse, and I am always looking for ways to downsize our possessions. This summer, my big project was to downsize my many photos albums and make very manageable archive boxes for our four grown children. I tossed a ton of meaningless photos, returned many to siblings, shared others etc. I am so happy I did this for my children and grandchildren!
I would love for you to speak more about your financial decisions. It interests me so much because, in a few years, we will be heading to more of a fixed income too. I know that you would have many wise and thoughtful ideas to share with us.
Isabella in Minneapolis
Janet,
ReplyDeleteI applaud you for not going back to your old job. Something I've been thinking about for the last six months, although I am still working at a part-time job, I would like to retire early (60 yrs.). I love this post & it's simplicity. Great food for thought! Would like more posts like it.
Sending prays you way.
Linda
Hi Janet, I knew you were home with Larry full time but wondered if you planned on returning to work. I say if you can manage on one paycheck, do it! I quit my very stressful job when Amanda was 14. She did play basketball all through high school so I was working about 20 hrs a week either attending her games or working at the snack bar during those summer tournaments. (something I would never had time to do if I was working) I had to learn to cut way back but we managed on one income. We ate out less, from 3 times a week to maybe once a month. Plus it put us in a lower tax bracket. An added bonus I had more time to work out and work in the garden. I never regret leaving the work force. I wish I had thought of doing ebay sooner. Have you thought of selling more for extra cash? I have done well recently hitting a few garage sales and estate sales and listing the stuff on ebay.
ReplyDeleteAre those gorgeous roses from your garden? If so I am jealous.
Would like to see more posts on money, one of my favorite topics. :o)
Linda
xoxo
Hi Janet - I vote yes on the money question. I'm past full retirement age and looking for a place I can afford to retire, but a bit afraid to give up my paycheck. I like what you said about living (and spending) purposefully.
ReplyDeleteI am so happy when I see a blog post from you show up in my Feedly! Like many others I enjoy reading everything you write about, but money is one of my favorite topics, too. So, yes, more please! I'm retired, love a simple life, and have always enjoyed figuring out ways to make money stretch further. For me it feels good to know I'm not wasting time, money, or things. xo
ReplyDeleteYes I would love more posts about budgeting and living more mindfully. We also are approaching retirement and will need to make some adjustments. Who knows maybe with some simple adjustments we can make retirement happen sooner.
ReplyDeleteMindful living (money, environment, clutter) is an evergreen topic, and I would love reading your take on it. It's something I've been doing for a number of years, but I think you'll do it with a lot more style! :)
ReplyDeleteMy husband and i have lived on a small income since he fell off our roof 7 years ago and hasn't been able to work. We downsized and are frugal but i would love your ideas on money.
ReplyDeleteThe simplicity of one is the best thing I've heard lately.
Your blog posts brighten my day! 💕
PS please do tell how you make money here.
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteThis is an exceptionally inspiring and useful post. I think I want to implement "the simplicity of one" in my own life! Please keep posting on similar topics.
ReplyDeleteWhat a brilliant idea- much more specific than saying you’re trying to use less gas, spend less money at the store. Yes, please write about money. I think that we all could use it. I still am so sorry for your loss.
ReplyDeleteJanet, I love everything you post about and the perspectives you share! That corner of your living room looks great! It’s nice when we finally get a spot “right” that has always bugged us. When you are in west LA next, I would love to take you to lunch (Annie Diamond can vouch for me ��).
ReplyDeleteYes, money is absolutely fine, especially from you. Also for you. If you wanted to use this blog to make more money I for one would trust you to do it beautifully with grace and care.
ReplyDeleteJanet, I am still in shock about your wonderful husband. Sending hugs to you to help. I have always liked your way of simplicity. You sound like one of my daughters, she can budget like you wouldn't believe. Yet by living on a budget she enjoys many good times and adventures. Blessings to you, xoxo, Susie
ReplyDeleteYou already taught me about "simple living"; I stumbled upon your blog ages ago. ADORE living with less and less and less and less. Now, please teach me about money. I have taken classes on money and am "more mindful" of spending and living in general. Why did I not do this YEARS ago? Take us all on the journey with you ...
ReplyDeleteI was talking care of my mother and still working. Juggle juggle juggle...still had two teenagers at home. After she passed away, I quit my job. I just needed a break and there was still so much to do to settle her Estate. Then the crash and I couldn’t find a job. My husband was already retired so we lived off of one income. It took a lot to get use to. The whole mind set of it. Years passed and I never went back. I volunteer a lot and keeping active and healthy is my job. I took Social Security early. I did the math and I will be breaking even until I am 82. After that I am sure I will not have a house but a small apartment. Yes, more money and simply life...please.
ReplyDeleteI always love your blog because it gets me thinking. I am moving into a whole new phase of my life and it means simplifying dramatically. The idea of one has me really spinning my wheels and getting some better insight into how I live! I am turning 45 next month and God willing, I will have a long life ahead of me but I want to live now, and that means a new way of seeing things, so THANK YOU! Love to you!
ReplyDeleteIts amazing how you find out you can live without so many things you used to think you needed. How I wish I had all the money I threw away buying frivolous things!
ReplyDeleteMe, too, Lynne. I think we have to reach a certain point in our lives before this becomes clear. That is one of the beautiful aspects of being "of a certain age." And all of those frivolous things we spent money on did serve a purpose for us and probably contributed to the way we now view money.
DeleteI'm always interested in anything you care to post. How you manage money and sustain yourself would be helpful and enlightening. I sure can understand your not wanting to return to work. After I lost my son, I didn't want to return - but after a time I didn't have a choice. People would tell me how good it was that I was back to work, how helpful that is - I did not find that to be true. I simply did what I had to do. I'm glad you're able to do what works best for you. Sending a gentle hug . . .
ReplyDeleteI would love to hear more about how to live with less. I would especially want to learn this from you as you manage to live with such style and grace. I retired 9 years ago and I am lucky as I do get a pension in addition to SS but of course it is fixed so it covers less and less as time goes on. I often think back to when I was a child and how little it took to make us happy. I think of you so often
ReplyDeleteDarby
Your wise use of money has always been of interest to me. Interest and inspiration. We too are now on a fixed income due to retirement for both of us. We've done some smart things but I want to continue to be wise with our money, so I always enjoy reading how someone else makes wise cuts with money. I have often felt we need less than we think we need.
ReplyDeleteYour posts are always a highlight, thank you.
Karen
Love this, Janet! And would love more posts about money management on a fixed income. We are recently retired and learning to live on a much smaller income. The pictures of your beautiful and organized home are always so inspiring. Thank you for continuing to blog----you are my favorite!
ReplyDeleteBlessings,
Judy
Hi Janet. I have been following you for some time and would like to express my condolences. I believe you are on to something - don't return to work but think you should write a book about the very substance of your post titled exactly as your post "The Simplicity of One". From reading your comments on your blog post there are many of us who are hungry for this information from you. Just saying... Sending warm thoughts your way and stay well!
ReplyDeleteYes! Yes! Yes!
DeleteJanet, your idea of simplicity of one is fabulous! I think your plan to focus on living on the income you have now will work. When I was teaching, I spent several years working just half time to get a break and also to practice living on less. I found I could live on much less than I was earning workiing full time. It can be a fun challenge to find ways to make it work. I would love to read more about your ideas on money management and creative ways to save. Blessings to you as you move ahead into your new life.
ReplyDeleteHi Janet,
ReplyDeleteYou are an amazing person. You are brave and courageous for sharing your thoughts with us. So glad you are finding ways to solve this latest adjustment. All good thoughts are winging their way to you and if a time comes when the simple living is not cutting it, please reach out to your community here for the help you may need. We would love to be a part of the way forward. :)
Yes! I'm totally interested, as I ponder this subject often too. I adore ALL your posts, Janet! Kay
ReplyDeleteJanet, your topics and writing are nothing short of inspiring! I love the simplicity of one. It made me immediately think of the items I have only one of, and how much more they are enjoyed and treasured. Would love to hear more! And living beautifully and simply on a budget. YES please. It goes against the “get more” culture of our world which is growing less attractive to me every. single.day! Happy Sunday!
ReplyDeleteI haven't lost my husband, but I have lost a son (my firstborn, when he was 21)...I know how hard it is to say or even type those words "when _____ passed". Even though it's been almost 10 years for me, I still find it too hard to say "died". Passed just sounds a little gentler. But anyway, of course you miss Larry so much. I can't even imagine. I am so sorry.
ReplyDeleteI do love your idea of the simplicity of one. Or even two or three. I do indeed do what you used to - just run to the store whenever we need something or do laundry every single day even though there's just two of us. I think the store thing is more because I don't plan out meals; I just fly by the seat of my pants. If I were more organized with meal planning and such, maybe I could make this work for me.
Living with less in any regard is always a great topic.
I'm so sorry for your loss. I lost my 30 year old son 20 years ago and i feel the same way.
DeleteAlthough I have enjoyed all of the various topics you have blogged about, simple living topics are my favorite. Yes to more about $$$.
ReplyDeleteI love all your blog topics...living with less money could be an area where we would all benefit from your thoughts and ideas.
ReplyDeleteI think many of us buy things on a whim without planning and then experience buyers remorse.
It is a highlight for me when I see that you have published a post so I am grateful...and thank you for your lovely blog.
Another lovely post . You are the epitome of stylish simplicity and I welcome any topic you wish to write about. xo
ReplyDeleteAnother lovely post . You are the epitome of stylish simplicity and I welcome any topic you wish to write about. xo
ReplyDeleteI'm new to your blog and very sorry about your husband.
ReplyDeleteI love this idea of the simplicity of one. My mom is one of those people with multiples of everything. She admits that she has enough clothes she could wear something different every day for a year. And yet she is 77 years old, had a mild stroke and doesn't even go much of anywhere but the grocery store or out to eat with my dad. He is in very poor health at 81 years of age and they have a big house crammed full of way more than they can manage. Watching them has convinced me I don't want to follow in their footsteps.
Janet, like everyone else, I feel that anything that is resonating in your own life is a topic I want to hear about. Your grace, style, and unique perspective are what draw me to your words and pictures—so please forge ahead with any subject that is presenting itself to you. As long as you have pictures of your home, I will be blissfully happy! ❤️🦋🌿 Blessings to you...
ReplyDeleteHi Janet, I’ve been following your blog for many years but rarely comment. My condolences to you on your loss.
ReplyDeleteI would love to hear more about managing finances on less. My husband quit his very lucrative but stressful job 10 years ago and we haven’t looked back. I went back to work full time because I wanted to and then I cut back to 20 hours a week. We lead very full and enjoyable lives on much less money than we thought possible and couldn’t be happier. I know whatever you share will be a great inspiration to your readers.
My husband left a stressful and high-paying consulting job after having a heart attack. It was crystal clear in the ICU the next morning that the job was killing him and he needed to make a change. He took a position close to home (twenty minute commute instead of an hour-plus) which has little to no stress, and he's able to walk every day at lunch, and what we don't have in money we have in vacation time. We took about a fifty percent pay cut, and it's been difficult, but we're used to it now and it's so worth it. I just turned down a full-time position because it would add a tremendous amount of stress to our lives, too, even though I'd love to build our savings up for a few years.
DeleteYes, Janet. I would love to read it. Ann
ReplyDeleteHello Janet & thank you for dipping a toe in the money pool topic. I would like to see an end to the taboo-ness of money conversations as it is so tied to well-being. How great to have discussions about what works and not. Yes, we all have our unique situations but you could spark some creative flame. Another Yes to how you monetize your blog. I have always been curious on how that works. So discuss, converse and keep an open dialogue going on financial independence. Be well and know you are loved. xx-hb
ReplyDeleteI for one would LOVE more on the topic of money (always include a pic of your beautiful home though :)....I recently retired early (60) and will supplement our income with working a few days a week but it means REALLY cutting back on my spending. So far I've had a "no-buy" month and it's been really easy so far - I'm thinking of a 3 month no-buy (my no buy includes clothing, make-up and home items) my 3 heavy budget busters.
ReplyDeleteMoney is a favourite topic of mine (especially on how to live within my means!). I would love to hear how you make it work. This is the sort of article I find inspiring and interesting. That being said, I love this post and the idea of living more intentionally. People often say it, without actually saying how they do it. Thank you - you are inspiring in so many ways.
ReplyDeleteOh Janet, I would love for you to write about it. It’s rather refreshing to bond with someone else that has to mindful about expenses. For years we were paid once a month. Friends would tell me there was no way they could handle it. I loved it, I paid all the bills and knew exactly how much I had to spend on extra things and planned accordingly.
ReplyDeleteYour corner looks beautifully simple!
Best,
Kathy
I love your blog. I always read every post and every wonderful comment.
ReplyDeleteI discovered the simplicity of one when I read Walden Pond at 16 and have lived a simple life since then. I married my Bob when I was 19 and he was 29. he was my soul mate. I was 34 when he died of esophagus cancer.
the simple life has never disappointed me. I worked for the state's Tourism Dept and managed to retire when I was 60. when they started calling the way we love by the name of 'minimalism' it made me smile. I had felt like a misfit for a long time. but not enough to make me want a lot of STUFF!!! LOL. I found the incredible lightness of being. and that is more than enough. your life and little cottage are beautiful. and a beacon for so many. keep writing darling AJJ! we love you and we're always here! XO
Hi Janet,
ReplyDeleteI loved your pantry post and use of baskets and crocks is lovely. Yes to more posts about money- always welcome and helpful! Your beautiful home feels very purposeful and tranquil, thanks for sharing.
Take Care,
Lisa
Yes, would love to hear more about money management. Am 3-4 from retirement myself, and would enjoy hearing some tips for simplifying my life and managing my money. Thanks, Janet!
ReplyDeleteJanet, I cannot add more to the many wonderful comments here but to say I too love your posts and look forward to more about your life. Deepest sympathies on the loss of your husband.
ReplyDeleteThere is a lot of food for thought in this post, & based on all the comments, it is a very relative subject for many of us. I am retired (alone now) & living on a fixed income as well. I am thankful that I prefer the simple life here at my cabin...gardening being my first love, but just enjoying nature is a blessing.
ReplyDeleteI find that in certain things I am able to be frugal, but there are so many areas that I still need to work on. The concept of one is a very good place to begin. I'm sure I have multiples of way too many things. And I, too, would love to hear more about ways to save money.
Anita ~ the cabin on the creek
...all is grace!
What a great idea. I think we all (most) need to live more simply if we are to sustain our world, never mind live on a fixed income. I shall take your idea and see where it makes sense to do this in my own life. I only drop by your blog intermittently, so I didn't realise you'd lost your dear husband. I am so sorry for your loss. Be kind to yourself.
ReplyDeleteIt always puts a smile on my face when I go into Gmail and see that there is a new post from you. Thank you for sharing your thoughts.
ReplyDeleteI second the comment that you should think about writing a book... your voice is soothing and wise and authentic, and the power of one is something we all need to be reminded of. One good friend, one smile, one compliment, one favorite perfume, one rose in a vase... and all the practicalities and economy that accrue from looking at life and living it with this in mind. Just this awareness inspires gratefulness, thriftiness, and a sense of contentment. if you have not any read books by Gladys Taber, I think you would love her writing (used booksellers on amazon, no longer published). Here's a sample: "We have an appointment with winter and we are ready. The woodshed is stacked with seasoned applewood and maple. The snow shovel leans at the back door and the shelves are jammed with supplies. When the snow begins...and the wind takes on a peculiar lonely cry, we pile more wood on the fire and hang the old iron soup kettle over it." Her CT home, Stillmeadow, was built in 1690 and she said she heard the small, old, long empty home speak to her, "I've been waiting for you. What took you so long?" That was all it took, and she undertook the venture with staggering fortitude, but scarce funds and no understanding of what she would face. She lived a simple, rustic life, yet it was filled with riches-- that can only come from what money cannot buy. Debbie
ReplyDeleteI second your recommendation on Gladys Taber. She used to do a column in a woman's magazine as well - years and years ago and I forget which one. I read all her books that my local library had and occasionally remember her and think I need to check them out and read them again.
DeleteI love reading your blogs, I love seeing your lovely home, and you used to write about the things you bought at sales
ReplyDeleteYes, I would love to learn and hear about how you have made lifestyle changes to simplify. We will be hopefully retiring in a few years and the idea of not having a paycheck is scary. We enjoying spending time fixing our home and it has become sort of a hobby. Not to be able to do so makes me sad! Love your posts and your courage! and of course love pictures of your home. Looking forward to hearing more about your journey!
ReplyDeleteI really enjoy everything you write about. And... for the record, money is an excellent subject! Please keep writing... about anything... you have a gift! :)
ReplyDeleteWould love to see you do a you tube channel on simplicity, you'd be great at that
ReplyDeleteThis post really intrigued me. I have been a single mom for 15 years while raising my two girls on a ver small income (I am a counselor for the chronically ill). I also live in a wealthy suburb where keeping up with the jones is a serious issue. From you, I have learned that I can have a beautiful elegant life while living within my means. My girls are grown now and it's just me and my dog. I still live very simply and find that I actually prefer it this way. Your concept of "one" is exactly where I am in my life right now. I would love to see more post about money- am actually begging you to post more!!! And lastly, I am saddened that Larry passed and continue to send all my support your way.
ReplyDeleteSimplicity and organization are things I both love and strive for, including finances. I’d love to hear more.
ReplyDeleteJanet
ReplyDeleteAll the post of you using the .99cent store. Thrift shopping and you and Larry working to pay the house off asap. You have this. I love reading about these tropics
I loved those posts, too!
DeleteLove the simplicity of one and the idea of 'storing things at the store.' We live with so much excess for no reason. I am using what I have in my closets, cabinets, and pantry before buying more. I always appreciate your sage advice whether culinary, home keeping, garden, fashion, health, or financially related.
ReplyDeleteWell, it looks like you have opened up a box of eager ladies wanting to read anything you would love to write. Count me in as well! Your blog is always welcome in my in box!
ReplyDeleteLove your ideas on living simply!It's a reminder to be mindful, as I'm easily distracted and can become wasteful in my daily habits. Love everything you share with us Janet
ReplyDeleteFirst I have been following you quietly for several years... like your others readers I have followed you and am so very sorry for your loss and heartache this past year. I personally am so grateful for your blog. So many blogs, while visually beautiful, make one feel somewhat ....I don't know if inadequate is the right word, but something like that. All the ads and examples that are held up to us to live life a certain way can be somewhat daunting. You are a calm reminder of what is important in life.
ReplyDeleteThank you so much for this particular blog.Thank you for putting such positive energy and thoughts out into this crazy world of ours.
Yes, please! xo
ReplyDeleteI had stop reading blogs for a long time and have come back to them. I'm so sorry for your loss. I have loved how you keep a realistic approach to life and purpose with living simplistic and beautiful. Yes, I would love to read about simplifying the budget part of living, especially on a fixed income.
ReplyDeleteYes I would love to hear more about money. I love the way you think and live.
DeleteYes I would love to hear more about money. I love the way you think and live.
DeleteI think one of the things I've always like about you is that you appear to live simply, but so well. Even before a fixed income you seemed to be frugal, and I appreciate that. Yes, I'd love your budgeting tips.
ReplyDeleteI've been reading your blog since you started the 333 project, which fascinated me, and have come to appreciate your gracious but simple way of living that mirrors our own, or at least, what I aspire to! Real life hits hard sometimes, you never know when it could happen. This concept of one that you introduce sounds very interesting and realistic and not quite as radical as Francine Jay's (though I love her books, too!) and applying it to life and money is a new idea to me - excellent, so yes, I'd like to hear more of your ideas and how you manage the next phase of your life. I'm only a few years behind you and like to learn from others and apply good ideas!
ReplyDelete(I am a bit puzzled about the term "fixed income" - is a salary not "fixed" or is this something particular to the US?? I'm assuming it's what we would call a pension in Europe...)
Yes I would love if you could write more about simple living, budgeting etc. We are in our 50's and are thinking of downsizing to a small town an hour away from our city, the closer we get to retirement. We aren't going to have much $ so I'd be very interested in any tips you could share. We have friends in their 60's who are close to retirement, and I've tried to pick their brain without being nosy just looking for guidance, and no one seems to want to talk about finances, its not like I need to know dollar amounts but advice about saving, spending, investing. I have been decluttering our house the past 5 years, we've been empty nesters for 2 years, so I'm hoping when we make our move, we'll be ready and with less stuff. As much as I love home décor, I guess at my age I'm getting to the point of "this is enough". I am now finding open clean spaces more inviting.
ReplyDeleteHA! Anon, I too am done with home decor. Donated so much and decided decorating for all the holidays just is not my thing anymore. Even Christmas will have a natural look. Up next is all my crafting stuff. We recently bought a home in Yucaipa with a large backyard(the husband wanted yard work, a 'back 20'(crazy, overgrown cactus and succulents and more, of a slope..hate cactus and succulents) and an easement we are also responsible to clean up. No time for crafting.
DeleteJanet, I am so sorry for your loss. I have not read your blog in awhile and did not know. I love everything you write about and love looking at your beautiful home.
Have you thought of a YouTube channel for extra income? I started watching "Clean with Me" videos and was shocked at how much these young moms are wearing themselves out...but making money doing it. Just recently I found someone I believe to be your Soul Sister. I think of you at times while watching her videos...the reason for today's visit. Anyway, here is her channel. I love it. She has only been on YouTube 9 months and already has over 45,000 subscribers.
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtFNxIYKroHC97NUEjMHbeA/videos
another fav is https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCazay-C-shtEEUO78ObKGJg/videos She also on YouTube 9 months and over 500,000 subscribers.
The first young lady is vegan, the second is not. By the way, they are Koren and put our cleaning to shame...just my opinion. Even at 57 I have learned a few tips.
blessings, jilly
OH YES!
ReplyDeleteMORE ON MONEY!
OUR LITTLE CAR GOES ALONG WAY BEFORE FILLING UP!I think I am close to once a month too in that DEPARTMENT!
XX
Yes, Janet, PLEASE talk about money, especially how you save money, live nicely on your fixed income. Love the idea of living more simply and this post of yours is such a great starting point. I also live on a fixed income so your wisdom would be so very helpful. Thank you so much for continuing your blog. You have been such an inspiration for so many years. thank you!
ReplyDeleteI too always adore anything you decide to write about. You are a calm breeze. Another commenter pointed out how we don't talk about money IRL which is too bad. The simplicity of one is a beautiful idea and I'd love to hear more.
ReplyDelete
ReplyDeleteHi Janet, I've been following you for some time and always enjoy your posts. I've often thought that I needed help, your advice would be welcomed. I follow some on YouTube and have wondered why someone older people didn't have a site. It seems the ones are much younger than I am. I am 72 yrs. and have been retired for over a year. Retirement has been challenging for me. I'm finding less is moe and don't want to be bothered with stuff as some of your viewers have commented. Finding your way in life after a loss can be an adjustment like no other. Be kind to yourself and continue to find beauty in the little things. Just a little from each of us can make a difference in all of our lives. Be Blessed.
Absolutely, we'd love to hear more talk of money. You have such a way of creating beautiful. :) Why not also include what you are doing to create beauty in your place, for only a wee little bit of money.
ReplyDeleteHave a very blessed day!
Kath
I would love to hear more abut money, budget and whatever else you are doing.
ReplyDeleteHi Janet,
ReplyDeleteI have never commented before, but yours is a blog I added to my blog reader quite a while ago. I'm only a bit younger than you, but questions of work and how to simplify are increasingly important to me, and I would love to read anything you'd like to share about how you are making do on less so that you don't have to spend your life doing work you'd prefer not to. In the past year I've made an adjustment to living alone, as well, so that's also a topic of interest. I really enjoy your blog and your approach to blogging; it is nice to have someone just a little bit ahead of me on the life path showing me ways I might go. I'm so sorry for your loss and all the pain that attended it.
This was such a good post! I love your idea of "one" for all these areas of your life and I absolutely love the idea of posting about budgeting and saving money (in addition to the fashion and interior design). Really....who can't use that? I'm in my 50's and my husband and I live on a tighter income due to career choices that bring rewards in ways other than financial. Please continue what you're doing. Yours is the ONLY blog I follow. My "one" blog that I enjoy. :)
ReplyDeleteAnd that idea about a YouTube channel by you really does interest me. I'm in if you decide to go that way!
ReplyDeleteA great (and most welcome) post as always. You used to right a lot about what you ate. I would love an update. Wishing you all the best as you continue to navigate your changed life circumstances. xx
ReplyDeleteAlways so happy to see a new post from you, Janet. And I'm always happy to read whatever your heart moves you to write about. Money and working within the confines of what we have is a great subject!
ReplyDeleteI have followed you for a long time and enjoy your posts no matter what you wrote about. My wish is that you would post more often.
ReplyDeleteLove your post! Yes, write about money. Navigating retirement is something I'm sure many people would be interested in..... Write about anything.....you've been missed! XO
ReplyDeleteI have followed you for a long time too and love and look forward to every single post, whether it is about food, makeup, what you are wearing or what you are doing with your home, garden or $. It's all good! I wish you would post more often too, like most of us out here. But mostly, I wish you health and happiness.
ReplyDeletePlease continue to post! Especially about money. We’re a single income family whose income has dropped by about 60% (since Covid). It feels a little like the loaves and fishes story for us, and we’re making it. I wish people would talk about it more.
ReplyDeleteI also really enjoy all your photos of your beautiful little home, and all you write about. I’ve missed you, and hope to hear more about what is going on in your life. Even the ordinary and mundane are interesting and beautiful to me.
Take care, with love…. Angela
So enjoyed this new post from you, and look forward to more. I'm newly retired and could definitely use some advise re: finances. Want to do some traveling, but need suggestions to do so on a budget. Jen
ReplyDeleteJust saw your post. so happy to see it. yes, please post about money and anything else. always my favorite blog. I
ReplyDeleteYES, please publish about money and anything else you care to. always an inspiration. I have made major changes in my diet because of you and still consult it for ideas. always my favorite blog! hope you are well and have found happiness. Love, Darby
ReplyDeleteMy son just graduated from high school and it's onto new paths for all of us. I want EXTREME but comfortable simplicity. I am also dialing back the budget, wayyyyyy back, because we are paying for college (to help him out, he is a good, deserving young man) and also, think of building our retirement. I'm calling my lifestyle curated, Italian/French/English, on a budget! LOL We are moving into a smaller house and I want absolute elegant, simplicity. I might spend some money on rose bushes, good coffee, a nice painting here and there, an old dish, cat treats and some art supplies, but other than that, I'm good to go!
ReplyDeleteHello Janet, Please share your thoughts about money! I enjoy reading how people live within their means. So happy you are posting, I have really enjoyed reading your blog and your photographs for years. I still enjoy blogs better than IG. Your blog has always been peaceful and comforting. IG has turned into a bombardment of advertising and a lot of it makes me Jones(ha ha!). Don't get me wrong, people share a lot of inspiring ideas, but I like the stories told in blogs. Those little reels go by too fast.
ReplyDeleteSincerely, Debra from SENC
So joyful to see your new post; I check often and every time I do I send you my best, warmest wishes for your current life. Even if you had decided to leave blogging for good (and when time stretches along I always figure you have), I'm still happy to have "known" you Janet. Your blog is my very favorite.
ReplyDeleteI love to read money posts and hope you will share anything that you have discovered. I remember you were hoping to save towards paying off your home, and of course everyone had an opinion there (!). I think that it
is a wonderful goal. Your home, as always, is looking lovely.
Erina
I enjoy reading about how others manage their money. I myself am trying to be more intentional about how I spend my money. I really did enjoy this post.
ReplyDeleteI just saw this and can't tell you how much I love hearing from you. I've missed your posts. Thank you for sharing your life, your garden, your home, etc., with us. Glad you are ok. Please post more.
ReplyDeleteHello Janet, I was surprised and delighted to see you've posted again!! All of your posts are wonderful - the home, your simple vegan food choices, wardrobe. Posts about money or budget would be helpful. I'm likely heading into retirement in the next several months as a result of corporate changes. Examples and guidance re: living well on a set income would be of interest. Again, I'm so so glad to see you on line!
ReplyDeleteKathy
Love this! As an older single woman this subject is critical. Would love to hear more.
ReplyDeleteJanet, I feel so ridiculously happy whenever you post. Please write about anything - what you eat now, what you're wearing, how the garden's looking and definitely money matters. Best wishes from across the pond.
ReplyDeleteI agree!
DeleteYour wonderful post title, "The Simplicity of One" says it all. I so enjoyed this piece. As we pare back the life we've accumulated, we are empowered to enjoy the things (items, experiences, etc.) that mean the most to us. Your writings about money are most welcome. Financial independence is true freedom. When we enjoy what we have and live below our means, there's a sense of peace that money can't buy.
ReplyDeleteYes!!!!
ReplyDeleteYes, please! Maybe partly because of societal hang-ups on talking about money, even in middle age I feel inadequate and anxious about money -- but find that even smart people with advanced degrees know surprisingly little about personal finance. So please, I'd be grateful for whatever thoughts you care to share on the subject. Your wise and kind ways make you an ideal teacher.
ReplyDeleteJanet, your posts are soothing no matter the subject, just happy to see something from you because there is a nugget of wisdom and humanity that we can all use more of. This particular post is something that I can relate to. I am not working now, currently looking for a job and also on a limited income. I think about how I spend money every day. I don't always make wise decisions, working on it and getting better at it. When I first stopped working, I spent a month doing Swedish death cleaning and could not believe all the duplicates+ in the house, things that I bought and forgot about. Luckily, there is a local organization that helps refugees settle in the US, I made many trips there last fall.
ReplyDeleteHow wonderful you are back! Yes, please write about whatever you like/want. If people don't like it, they don't have to read. I used to love your food blogs. From Darlene in nz
ReplyDeleteAs a 77 year old widow of 7 years I would love to read more of the simplicity of one and how to manage on a fixed income. Talking money is so taboo here in the UK. Most of the articles are about spending more and then berate those who overspend! From one who checks her bank account 5 days a week please write more. But please more pictures of your lovely home.
ReplyDeleteI would love to hear more about managing with what you have. I know money is Taboo talk. Maybe that is why we have a nation and people in such debt.
ReplyDeleteI am endlessly interested in hearing how others manage their money. I loved your series ages ago about what groceries you brought home and how much you spent. I'm always looking for ways that life can be simplified and how that affects your finances.
ReplyDeleteYes, I would love thoughts on living on less! I want to pay off my house within a year.
ReplyDeleteOh yes, any advice about money and living small is greatly appreciated.
ReplyDeleteI recently re-read your four organization posts. I love everything about them!
Betty
Where did you find the organization posts, Betty?
DeleteOh how I envy your living small lifestyle! I'm in my mid 70's and strive to live in this manner. I want to clear the clutter from my home, my life, etc. Suggestions for foods and money would also be most appreciated.
ReplyDeleteWrite! You have much to offer and the manner in which you explain things remains clarity at its best. I am working and have achieved much in the constant act of living with less. It is WONDERFUL. Now, can I find a cottage "like yours" in which to continue the quiet life style of not spending and living with even less?
ReplyDeleteHi Janet, missed your post last month but was happy to see it today! Money and budgeting was probably one of my favorite topics on your blog. Tony and I are going through a fairly large remodel and so when we move back home we will be on a strict budget. We had to live on less money when I quit my job years ago, so I know I can do it again. Tony hopes to retire next year so we will lose our "Cadillac insurance" as he calls it. We have gotten spoiled with him being a teacher. Would love to see more posts on this subject. 😊
ReplyDeleteLinda xoxo
Yes, I’d love more content on budgeting and simplicity ideas! Always good to read posts from you
ReplyDeleteThis is timeless wisdom. Thank you.
ReplyDeleteJanet this was wonderful! People are constantly asking for more on this subject. I say yes, only you can do it with such style!!
ReplyDeleteYes, please !
DeleteI was so happy to see a blogpost from you and seeing that you are doing well! I have always loved your simple living style. It is something I aspire to and work towards. Would love more posts from your! - Katie
ReplyDeleteThat would be great!!! Love to hear how others make it work.
ReplyDeleteJanet, this is a timely topic for me. Since my husband passed four years ago, I have been aimless and without any purpose. Reminding myself that there is power in one is an affirmation that life will be okay. Thank you!
ReplyDeleteHi! I used to read you blogs way back in 2014 . Then insta came in the way and I almost forgot you. Couldn’t recollect your blogname correctly.
ReplyDeleteFound my old iPad today connected and found a screenshot taken from your blog.
So happy to be checking in again. So happy to see you mention your husband.
Are you still in that lovely cottage with thr garden? Are you still
Vegan? It’s lovely to
See your posts again.
Gayatri from
India! By the way you still look awesome!
And so does your home!
Yes and Yes!
DeleteHello Janet, I’m going to paint my kitchen walls and cabinets BenjaminMoore Simply White enamel. I think this is what you
ReplyDeleteused in your kitchen and I’d like to
know if you’re still happy with it and
if you have and tips you can give me.
Looking forward to your next post
on MONEY! Thank you, Kathy M
Yes! I still love it as much as day one. In fact I think I love it more. It's been almost 18 yrs ago and I wouldn't change a thing. I don't really have any tips except that I would use Benjamin Moore paint and not have it color matched at a hardware store. Kitchens take a beating and BM paint is so good. x
DeleteThank you. Also, did you use enamel
ReplyDeleteon the walls and cabinets? Ty
I used semi-gloss on walls and cabinets
DeleteWhere are you? Are you alright? Miss your posts. Miss the pictures of your lovely cottage-there is something so peaceful about your home and your willingness in sharing your life and heart with us. Your posts have a way of drawing us in as we smile, laugh and cry along side of you as you navigate through life. Please come back to us.
ReplyDeleteI'm doing the best I can. I'm ok, pls do not worry!
DeleteSending you a hug and hoping you really are ok. xx
ReplyDeleteFor some reason your blog popped up on my phone...hmmm. I've been trying to write a blog for some time andhave several in outer space floating around out there but don't think anyone has read any of the posts. I would rely like it if I had some readers. I really enjoyed what I read in this post and am even put some of it to use more than I have already done only with purpose and I'm planning on it working for me. I'm also going to follow you just because I'm interested
ReplyDelete. Please visit my blog and leave a comment if you would. Thanks for this post...jchasewrites.
blog
Oh i am so delighted to read you again, Janet. I am French, and you have been a inspiration for many years. Thank you for continuing to evoke the style, atmosphere and meaning of a home, of a life with the difficulties relating to money.
ReplyDeleteI would like to applaud you for the beauty, the simplicity and the honesty you spread.
Smiles
Miss you. A lot!
ReplyDelete