Choosing Voluntary Simplicity

When We Stop Stuffing the World with Things

Shirley — Sat, 18 May 2013 12:29:48 +0000

"... rather a certain kind of richness, the fullness that appears when we stop stuffing the world with things."

How To Boil a Potato Perfectly, Circa 1880

Shirley — Thu, 16 May 2013 13:00:21 +0000

I especially like the author's disclaimer: "Each receipt has been tested personally by the writer, often many times; and each one is given so minutely that failure is well-nigh impossible, if the directions are intelligently followed."

Our Search For a Firewood Source Continues…

Shirley — Tue, 14 May 2013 12:17:26 +0000

Our plan to order another truckload of logs came to a screeching halt the morning I called to place the order and arrange for a delivery date. There had been, the receptionist told me, some changes in load size, pricing, and availability since our previous order.

Sometimes It Takes a Closer Look

Shirley — Mon, 13 May 2013 12:01:44 +0000

Learn to cherish the simple things and the ordinariness of your everyday life.

A Quick & Easy Yogurt Ice Cream

Shirley — Wed, 08 May 2013 11:14:13 +0000

This yogurt ice cream is incredibly easy to make... and quick, too. And if you use purchased yogurt, there are no bowls to wash because all the ingredients can be mixed right in the yogurt container.

There Was a Package in Our Mailbox Today

Shirley — Fri, 03 May 2013 11:54:02 +0000

There was a package in our mailbox today and it was the best kind of surprise. When I saw the return address, I guessed (hoped) what might be inside... the package was from a long time reader who loves plants, gardening... and especially sempervivums... as much as I do.

Are You Tired of the Noise?

Shirley — Wed, 01 May 2013 12:10:52 +0000

Are you tired of the noise? Not just the noise that surrounds us at work or out in the world... the machines, the sounds of construction... the airplanes, the sirens, the cars and the trucks... the clangs and the crashes and the horns...

But of Little Things…

Shirley — Sat, 27 Apr 2013 14:04:51 +0000

"Life is made up, not of great sacrifices or duties, but of little things..."

How I Make “Real” Potato Chips

Shirley — Wed, 24 Apr 2013 13:48:42 +0000

I haven't bought potato chips for a long time. There must be a potato chip out there somewhere that is made without soy, without hydrogenated oils, and without oils from crops that have been genetically modified... but I haven't found any. Even the chips advertised as "fried in olive oil" have canola oil... or corn or soy... also listed in the ingredients.

It’s Been a Long Time Coming…

Shirley — Mon, 22 Apr 2013 11:59:13 +0000

It's been a long time coming, but I THINK spring is finally here. The snow is completely gone... EVERYWHERE... even in the woods!!!