Friday, December 28, 2007

The Holidays Simplified

Though we missed our families, who were 1000s of miles away, we didn't travel over the holiday season. While it's always worth it, traveling home is a hectic ordeal, and this year we avoided that stress.

In addition, we created a spreadsheet to keep track of what we bought, for whom, and at what cost. That way we were able to stay within our budget, avoid charging anything, and finish the season without that sick what-have-we-done feeling that comes from spending more than you should or buying gifts no one will remember. Every present we purchased was something we thought the recipient needed or wanted. We called some friends and said, forget gifts. Let's get together and enjoy each other's company instead, and we made dates to do just that.

What does this have to do with being Raw? Well, for us part of the beauty of Raw Food is it's inherent simplicity. While I'll never give up the occasional Raw gourmet dish, a bowl of apples and figs is a simple pleasure I can't resist. It's wonderful to find that more relaxed and appreciative attitude touching other parts of our lives.

3 comments:

TheWriterStuff said...

Thank you for your encouraging response to my latest post. I'm going to keep plugging away. Reading your blog is such a pleasure. You are an excellent writer. Do you write professionally? If you don't, you should.

Anonymous said...

I love the thoughts expressed in your post. We also tried to simplify the holidays this year and enjoyed it so much more that we plan even bigger changes next year. I agree with you, the simplicity of raw veganism just naturally leads for a desire for a more simple lifestyle in every way.

Happy New Year!
Connie

Anonymous said...

Thankyou for your comment. I'm going to try to be the example in my family's life. Maybe if they see the changes in me they will have the courage for change too. I really appreciate the support.
Happy Newyears!!
Peace love and joy
kara