Tag: minimalist family

Life at the Cottage | Winter 2020/21

Welcome back to the cottage everyone! In this new year, I want to make a bit of a change on my post line-up. More specifically, I am looking to update the way our family life is shared here on the blog.

Previously, I had been dedicating one post per month to our family life and adventures. This series was titled ‘Around Here.’ And, although these were quick updates that were easy to write, some months I felt that they were put together just for the sake of getting them done.

Now, I have decided that going forward the family update posts will be published quarterly. One update per season. Winter (December, January, February), Spring ( March, April, May) Summer (June, July, August), and Fall (September, October, November). I am hoping that these posts will be more substantial, and will give a good insight into what our family has been up to.

For the first installation of this new series, ‘Life At The Cottage’, I want to recap our Winter 2020/21 season.

WINTER 2020/21

Though we had moved into the cottage by winter of 2019, winter of 20/21 was the first year we were able to actually enjoy our house as a home. No longer were we surrounded by a never ending assortment of unfinished projects. We were able to actually take the winter season and fully appreciate what we had labored over for the entire previous year.

Christmas was a joyous time, and we thoroughly enjoyed decorating our cottage for the season for the very first time.

We focused mainly on the interior spaces this year, but have plans to expand the decor outdoors by the time Christmas comes around again.

With the house in order, we were also able to enjoy the outdoors more this winter. The kids thoroughly enjoyed ice skating on our pond during the first part of winter, before much snow had fallen. They were even able to invite a few friends over for a skating party, complete with hot chocolate by a fire pit.

We are hopeful that next year we will be able to purchase a small snowblower, which would really help out a lot when it comes to keeping the ice clear and skate-able.

For the most part, the weather of winter 20/21 was quite mild. After a large amount of snowfall in the fall, we only had a few days that included any snow during the months of January and February. That is simply unheard of in the Midwest. Chances are, we are in for some spring storms. For now though, we are appreciating the fact that we were able to get outdoors nearly every day.

We had plenty of indoor activities to keep us busy throughout the winter as well. Our favorite indoor winter pastime was, again this year, putting together puzzles. Collectively, our family successfully completed a record ten puzzles. Most were 1,000 pieces or more!

Near the end of winter, Angela went antique shopping and found a perfectly sized puzzle table. We anticipate many more hours spent around this table as a family.

 

It has been such a blessing to our family that the small private Lutheran school our children attend has been able to remain ‘in person’ for the entire school year so far.  The kids have been able to keep a slice of normalcy during this crazy pandemic time, which we are thankful for.

We are proud of all of the kids for working hard at their schooling, tackling any subjects that may be more difficult for them with a good attitude.

The boys are all on the same basketball team this year, which has been really fun. There has been a limited number of game opportunities, but we are so grateful for the times they have been able to play against other teams. They have each improved in their basketball skills and confidence on the court.

It is especially sweet this year to have them all together, knowing that is likely one of the only times they will ever all be on the same team again. Our oldest son, {D}, will be heading to senior high next year at a brand new school.

A couple of milestones were reached for him this winter. He got braces on his teeth AND he started his very first job!

He is working at the same office where Craig is employed, doing some entry level data organizing. It is a perfect fit, especially since the two of them will be able to ride to and from work together during the summer months. For now, during the school year, he just gets in a few hours here and there.

 

Angela has been busy decluttering and getting things organized around the house. In fact, during the month of January, she took on a challenge with her mom – and was able to donate, sell, or toss over five hundred items.

It’s amazing how great it feels to simplify our belongings! At times, people who visit our home mention that it looks a bit bare. Simplified / minimalistic living isn’t for everyone, but it is something our family has come to love. A clean home allows us all to have more clear minds, and focus on the important things in life rather than the managing of stuff.

 

Craig has kept busy with a few projects this winter. He has been working on refinishing an antique oak desk, which is turning into a very beautiful piece. We are excited to get it into his office.

Additionally, he also finished the metal beds for the girl’s bedroom. They look so wonderful, and the girls absolutely love them!

There is never a shortage of projects here at the cottage. Stay tuned to see what we tackle next.

 

I hope you enjoyed this glimpse into our lives here at the cottage. Be sure to check back at the end of the spring season for more updates on our family!

Until then, you can always like a closer look by visiting our family YouTube channel , Arrow Hill Family, to watch our weekly photo vlogs. Be well everyone!

 

 

HOW MINIMALISM BENEFITS KIDS

As my husband and I move in a conscious direction toward minimalism and a more simple lifestyle, our entire family is being impacted. We have seen huge positive changes in our children. Today I will discuss the top ways I have observed that minimalism benefits kids.

Minimalism allows kids to be more creative and imaginative in their surroundings, including nature

Many think of minimalism as a trend for adults wanting to take a breather from the fast paced, over-cluttered life they had been stuck in. In actuality, however, it is a lifestyle that benefits all generations. The youngest members of a family, the children, may in fact be the most impacted by minimalism. The habits they form early in life will set them up for success in a variety of ways.

 



 

HOW MINIMALISM BENEFITS KIDS

One of my resolutions for this year is to look for inspiration from those who have gone on this journey before us. By reading about other families experiences, and observing our own children through this transition, I have found the following to be the top ways that minimalism benefits kids.

 

FEWER DISTRACTIONS

We all know that spending time in a clean space can lead us, as adults, to be productive. When children live in a clean home they are also better able to better focus on tasks. Homework, for example, is much easier to tackle when the child isn’t tempted by a mountain of toys or variety of video games.

The benefits that minimalism gives kids includes fewer distractions and improved focus

Distractions can present in a variety of ways. Though we think most often of physical distractions, other obstacles such as worrying can divert just as much attention. The stress that is relieved by not having to deal with, clean, and keep track of un-necessary items or events is important to note as well.

Fewer distractions also means that there is room for focused attention. Your child may find that they have a knack for sewing, a love for reading, or a passion for acting. By eliminating the unwanted distractions in life, they can better focus their energy on the things they love.

 

LESS LIKELY TO LOSE THINGS

How many times have you been ready to leave the house when your child complains that he or she can’t find a shoe or backpack? The sudden scramble to find the missing item quickly escalates into hard feelings between parent and child. Feelings that can easily be avoided.

It’s no secret that items are easier to find when they are given a ‘home’ and are returned there after each use. This is a technique that parents can set up and encourage their children to follow. Of course, there will be some trial and error, but the benefits of this habit are worth the effort.

Minimalism is helpful for kids in many ways. This article discusses the top ways that living a simplified lifestyle with your kids can help set them up for a future of success

A child is more likely to take better care of, and track of, their personal belongings when they see them as being important. One shoe missing of fifteen pairs owned probably won’t seem like a big deal to them. Grabbing a different pair out of the pile is easy. But if the child owns only two or three pairs, the loss of a shoe will make a much larger impact.

 

MORE CONFIDENT DECISION MAKERS

It is easy to become overwhelmed when faced with a lot of choices. As adults, we are faced with many decisions each and every day. What should we wear? What should we eat? Is this event something I want to attend? When children are given too many options they can become mentally paralyzed, worrying about making the right choice.

The positive ways that minimalism benefits children.

In this way, fewer choices can actually help children become more confident in their decision making. Choosing one shirt to wear from four options is much easier than choosing from a pile of forty. Each successful decision made will add to the child’s confidence. This confidence will then spill over into more important life decisions, such as choosing relationships that are healthy and behaviors that are productive.

 

BLOSSOMING CREATIVITY

One of the most frequently listed minimalist benefit for kids is their ability to be creative with the things they have. Children have the amazing gift of imagination. Surrounding them with too many play things that ‘entertain’ them actually hinders and stunts their ability to be imaginative.

Some of the best toys that you can have on hand for your children include those that promote open ended play. Wooden blocks that can become roads, towers, or dining plates. Art supplies that can be manipulated into endless creations.

Kids who participate in the minimalist lifestyle see so many benefits that will help them throughout life

Many minimalists also note that with fewer toys their children spend much more time outdoors. Outdoor play has many benefits, including the access to fresh air and natural vitamin D. Creativity also blossoms in nature, especially in the use of large motor skills. Fort building, scavenger hunts, or an exciting game of hide and seek in the woods are just a few examples.

 



 

IMPROVED SHARING ABILITY

Minimalist children tend to be less possessive and have a lowered sense of entitlement. That’s not to say that they won’t still admire items when walking through a store, for example. The difference is that though they may voice their pleasure of an item, they don’t long for it in an unhealthy way.

Minimalist benefits for children include siblings ability to share

Because they understand that things are just things, it isn’t as difficult for them to share with their siblings, for example. They know that even if the item breaks or gets damaged in some way, it won’t be the end of the world. Kids who grow up in a minimalist environment learn early on that happiness doesn’t come from what you own.

 

STRONGER RELATIONSHIPS

When it comes right down to it, I firmly believe that the main goal of minimalism for most people has less to do with belongings and more to do with relationships. And so, it is wonderful to note that one of the greatest benefits that minimalism affords children is a stronger bond to those they are close to.

Minimalism helps to form stronger relationships between children and their parents

That age old sibling rivalry of making sure everything is ‘fair’ begins to break down. No longer are they concerned about having more, because they realize that more doesn’t always mean better.

The time commitment that parents may have been spending handling all their belongings is lessened through minimalism. Those hours are re-allocated as quality time with their spouse and children.

These stronger bonds create a more open dialogue between all family members. Since it is no longer the norm to hide junk behind cabinet doors or under the bed, the hiding of secrets or emotions isn’t commonplace either.

 

FAMILY MINIMALISM MOVEMENT

There are many families who are shifting their focus to live a more minimal lifestyle, in an effort to regain time with each other. These families realize the importance of their relationships over belongings. I have teamed up with a group of blogging moms who are on this journey and have seen how minimalism benefits kids. Check out their blogs and social media accounts for additional tips and encouragement!

 

Not Your Average Fox | Minimalist Hospital Bag Essentials

Little Me + Family | Minimalist Baby Play Area

Faith and Family Farmhouse | Becoming Intentional With Toys

This Corbett Life | Embracing Minimalism Through Motherhood

 

HOW MINIMALISM HAS BENEFITED (OUR) KIDS

In this video I discuss examples of some of the ways our own five children have benefited from a more minimal and simple lifestyle.

We are excited to continue on this path, especially as we move into our new home, Arrow Hill Cottage. This home has been designed to meet our basic needs in an efficient way. Any luxuries that it includes have been well thought out and deemed beneficial for individual family members as well as the family as a whole. Moving into this new home will mark a major, pivotal shift for our family. I would love it if you could follow along with us on this journey. We should be breaking ground and begin construction in just a couple of months!

 



 

WHERE TO START FOR KID MINIMALISM

It all starts with you. Behavior modeling is so important and impactful for children. They will see your mood change as you clear the clutter. They will realize how much more time you have for them. When mom and dad are no longer arguing about all the junk laying around, they kids will notice.

And at some point along the journey, the kids will realize that this isn’t just something that parents do. It is something that families do. Families that care more about each other than material items. And they will ask what they can do to pitch-in on the effort.

How minimalism benefits kids. The ways that a simplified lifestyle helps set children up for success

Then, help them go through the toys. You will likely be blown away by how easily your children are able to choose which items to keep and which to part with. The truth is that, for most kids, many of the items they claim as theirs came by way of your pocketbook. Their attachment to them is only surface deep. Either they play with it, or they don’t. Let them make these choices and you will see a snowball effect when it comes to other categories, such as clothing.

 

PIN THESE INSIGHTS

Thinking about a more minimal life for yourself and your family? Use these insights about how minimalism benefits kids as motivation to take the leap! In the end, you will end up with fewer things, yet so much more overall.

minimalism for kids - the benefits of a simplified life

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

MINIMALIST RESOLUTIONS FOR THE NEW YEAR

A new year means a new perspective and goals for the future. Today I am outlining five minimalist resolutions that I am setting to start 2019 out on the right foot!

minimalist resolutions for living intentionally

I have just finished up a four week series of declutter challenges. The process was hard work, but I have to admit that the house is looking pretty amazing. It’s impressive to see what even just one month of focused intention can do! I want to keep the momentum going into the new year, and have come up with a series of minimalist resolutions to help me reach my goal.

 

FIND INSPIRATION

Since we are just at the very beginning of our minimalism journey, it can be daunting at times to think about how far we have to go. Reading about others who have gone before us and seen success is going to be key. Finding inspiration is the first of my minimalist resolutions for the new year.

 

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BOOKS

The Life Changing Magic of Tidying Up. I have been wanting to read this book for a while, as it has received many great reviews. The author, Marie Kondo, was the one who developed the KonMari decluttering method. I used that method for one of my declutter challenges and found it quite effective.

Marie’s philosophy on decluttering has to do with keeping only the items that bring you joy. She has partnered with Netflix to create an eight episode mini series, where she teaches others to use her techniques. The series starts on January first, and you can be sure I will be watching!

 

Minimalism for Families. Because we are a large family, I am particularly interested in techniques to help our brood along on this journey. This book got good reviews not only because of the practical tips that are offered, but also because it helps the reader understand the ‘why’ behind reducing clutter.

simple living minimalist resolutions

 

 

BLOGS

The Minimal Mom: The writer of the blog, Dawn, is a fellow Minnesotan. She and her husband are raising 4 kids, and I feel like she is super relate-able. They have gone through an extreme decluttering process that has resulted in a new and more simple way of life for their family. Dawn also has a great YouTube channel with many videos that further explain the techniques they use. I definitely recommend you check out their laundry system video – a unique approach that works for them!

 

YOU TUBE

Break the Twitch: Of course, there is a ton of videos about minimalism on YouTube, and it will surely serve as a source of inspiration in the new year. One channel that I have recently subscribed to and am loving is Break the Twitch. Anthony uses humor to teach about why mimimalism is effective. He shows his audience that mimimalism is more than just eliminating physical clutter. It also has to do with a mindset shift in order to live intentionally.

 

NO SPEND MONTH

My second resolution is in collaboration with another amazing YouTuber. Shannon Torrens and her family have been walking down the path toward minimalism for the past year or so. It is really impressive to see all that they have accomplished in such a short time! Follow along with their journey by visiting her channel.

Shannon and I both recognize that a challenge can be a great motivator to reach a goal. Because of this, we decided to make January a ‘no spend month’. We will attempt to buy only consumable products such as food and toiletries for the entire month of January.

Doing this for the first month of the new year will be a great way to reset our spending habits. It is also likely to be quite eye opening. I will be recording how many ‘want items’ went un-purchased as well as the amount of money that was saved.

2019 New Years Resolutions

I am personally calling this our ‘Happy (NO) New Year Challenge’. Feel free to join us!

I’m excited to have Shannon as my accountability partner this month. Be sure to view her personal New Years resolution video and blog post, and check back here at the end of January to see how we both did!

 

FINISH DECLUTTERING

Of all of my minimalist resolutions, this is likely to be the most challenging. We have lived in our rental farmhouse for over four years now. There are still boxes that remain unopened from our move, sitting in a storage closet. And, of course, we have accumulated more items during the time we have lived here. Because Arrow Hill Cottage is smaller than the rental house, we need to be very diligent about which items we decide to keep.

simple living decluttering in 2019

I would like to have the declutter process finished by the time we break ground on the new house. This adds a bit of urgency to this resolution. We should be breaking ground in the spring – April or May. That gives me only 3 or 4 months to get the job done.

Thankfully, the December challenges gave me a great jump start. I definitely plan to use some of the techniques I used to tackle the rest of the rooms in the rental house.

 

GARAGE SALE

My husband really hates garage sales. He doesn’t feel that they are with the effort. However, with all the decluttering that is about to happen, we will have plenty to sell!

I finally got him to accept the idea by mentioning that the proceeds from the sale could be used toward items for the new house. And so, the fourth of my minimalist resolutions is to have one big garage sale near the end of the summer.

Minimalism in 2019 - family resolutions

It is likely that we will be preparing to move near the end of the summer, or early Fall. That just happens to be prime garage sale time in our area. We are currently storing all the items for the sale in a large upstairs closet we have lovingly named ‘the sell room.’ Everything will be moved out to the garage for the sale. Items that don’t sell will be immediately donated.

Not having to pack everything into boxes and move, then sort again at the new house, is considered a win-win in my book!

 



 

ONE IN ONE OUT

After the whole house declutter and massive garage sale, we need to move forward by keeping things clutter free. It would be the biggest disappointment to put in all the hard work only to fill up the new house.

And so, my final minimalist resolution for 2019 is to practice the one in / one out rule. Essentially this means that before bringing any new item into our home, I will think about which item it will be replacing. The replaced item will then be donated, so that we do not continue to accumulate over time.

large family minimalism - intentional living

Items should be of like value or type. For example, purchasing a brand new power tool and eliminating a small hair accessory would be bending the rules. My year round capsule wardrobe will be easy to keep in check, since I want to keep it at the same number of items.

It would be really extreme to catalog and number every single item in our entire home. Instead, I plan to always be mindful of the things we do own, so that we don’t end up with duplicate items that serve the same purpose.

Of course, there will be a period of time while we are setting up the new house with bedding, curtains, and some new furniture. This will be the exception to the rule however, and for the most part this process should be complete within a few months of moving in.

I’m excited to see how the one in / one out mentality helps me to think critically about which items are brought into our home.

 

THOUGHTS ON MY MINIMALIST RESOLUTIONS

We are filled with hope and anticipation going into 2019. Our family has been dreaming about building our forever house for years and years.  Knowing that it is finally going to become a reality is beyond exciting.

New Year Resolutions

Not only will the house be a special tailor-made place for our family to live, it will also be a clean slate for us. A chance to start over in some respects, and to create the family life we have been craving. A slower paced, intentional outlook on life – where we have deeper connections with one another. As our kids grow, these connections are going to be even more important.

I am hopeful that this year’s minimalism resolutions will be a jump start into even more positive changes in the coming years.

 

OTHER NEW YEARS GOALS

I have heard before that a goal is just a wish unless you write it down. And so as an effort to keep these things at the forefront of my mind, I am leaving them here to look back on when I need motivation.

 

FOR MYSELF 

Taking more time to rest, and enjoy the simple things in life

Saying ‘no’ to events and commitments that add unnecessary stress

Waking up each day with a positive attitude and clear mind

Cooking healthy meals for my family

simple living new years resolutions

 

FOR MY FAMILY

Spending more quality time together

Craig had an awesome idea, which we will be implementing on January 1st. We are calling it ‘Screen Free Saturday’. On the first Saturday of each month we will shut off all of our devices and connect as a family. We envision cooking all of our meals together, playing board games, and just getting to know each other better. Everyone in the family is really looking forward to this!

 

Reading books together

Leading up to Christmas, I read an advent story book aloud to the family. The kids all enjoyed it so much that they were constantly asking for me to read extra each night. I think it would be fun to start a book series that all of our children, ages 5 to 12, could understand and be interested in. One option I have thought of is the Little House on the Prairie Series. If you have any recommendations for captivating books in this age range, please let me know!

 

Celebrating the value that each member brings to the family

As a large family, it is sometimes difficult for each member to find their place. Even though it isn’t intended, some members definitely receive more attention than others. I would love to do some family exercises that could help us each recognize that even though we are all different, we bring something unique that helps our family as a whole.

 

FOR THE BLOG

I am hopeful that the things I have learned in 2018 will help me to grow the blog even more in the coming year. More specifically, I am going to be working on putting out great content that will be helpful to my readers. This minimalism journey that our family is on will be a big source of topics for the blog, but I will also be writing about healthy meals, organizing tips, and of course home design ideas.

 

Are you making New Years Resolutions? If so, I would love to hear about them and encourage you throughout the year! Here’s to a wonderful 2019!

 

MINIMALIST RESOLUTIONS VIDEO

 

PIN THESE MINIMALIST RESOLUTIONS

minimalist new years resolutions. Intentional living for 2019