MINIMALIST THOUGHTS FROM THE BEACH

Currently, I’m enjoying one of Southern Florida’s most beautiful beaches. It’s 75 degrees and “cloudy.” I’ve learned that when Florida’s weather forecast predicts a “cloudy” day, they are referring to (literally) a handful of clouds. The sky is bright blue and sunny, with a few fluffy intruders unsuccessfully blocking the sun’s rays. This Midwesterner has found herself writing this blog post while finding solace from the sun in shade provided by a small straw hut-like structure separating the white sandy beach from the neighboring coastal homes. Today, I’m here to share a glimpse into one of the reasons “why” we decided to re-design our life, foregoing consumption to find simplicity.

Living intentionally starts with letting go of the things that the world has “taught” us to need or want. Instead, choosing to invest in the things that are meaningful to us an individuals. For Ty and I, one of those things is travel. That sounds trite, but it’s something we live by. 

Intentional living in application is about putting your money where your mouth is.

We traded bursting closets and car loans for cross country road trips and spontaneous weekend flights. We’ve ventured to 47 states (with #48 in January, and Europe soon after).  We don’t share this information to tell the world that we think we are cool, we share because we have found so much joy in trading possessions for experiences, and want to a be a part of a movement that reframes the “American dream,” which we believe should be entirely relative, and not the “one-sized-fits-all” lifestyle. 

For Ty & I, traveling reminds us to focus on what is truly important. The time away from the "rat race" affords us an opportunity to go deep in our conversations and reevaluate a multitude of facets within our life. It also allows to recognize the coping that we all succumb to during every day life. Often, during the winter months, we get tempted to spend, seeking instant gratification rather than focusing on the long term. It's easy to spend $50 on something you will forget about, or wish you never bought, just a few months later. It is very rare, if ever, that we regret taking a trip together. It's short trips like this one to SoFlo that serve as a constant reminder of what we value. Time, the beach, sunsets, long walks, great coffee. 

We don't travel glamorously, trying to see as many places as we can with limited resources. More on that in future posts!

Everyone's circumstances are entirely different, as are each person's preferences. Consumption, money, travel...it's all rather personal. We do hesitate to share these things so transparently as it can feel invasive, and as everyone has differing priorities. Please know that we do view intentional living as entirely subjective. We know intentional living looks different to differing people in various places. That said, we wanted to offer our personal prescription that has led us to make such drastic, constant changes in our lives. 

How do you want to spend your days? 

HJJ