Aug 24 2008
Understanding My Frugal Motivations - Part 1 - In The Garden
The economy has created a new generation of people who strive to subscribe to the teachings of the Gospel of Frugality. While the new blood is a welcome addition to the large and ever-expanding frugal family I can’t help but find myself wondering about the motivations of these frugal babies and what their motivations, goals and objectives might be.
This week are are going to take a look at what motivates me into a frugal lifestyle.
My own frugality has its rootsin my childhood, and in growing up playing hide and seek in the small backyard suburban garden of my grandparents. It was the gifts from that garden that my grandmother filled the Sunday dinner table with week after week.
That is what started me on my frugal journey - something as seemingly simple as a childhood garden. The idea of people eating their vegetables out of cans just never made a convincing argument to a kid who had eaten only the freshest home grown veggies for years. Home grown food tastes better, costs less and is not only better for you but for the environment as well.
Yeah you caught me, I’m an environmental type too.
I believe that the closer we live to the earth the more natural it is for us to lean toward the tenets of frugality and simple living. Nurturing a seed into a plant that bears fruit which will in turn nurture us… it is one of the most beautiful and sustainable of the circles of life. That extra work also gives us a greater appreciation and respect for the earth and for the food we eat.
If you don’t have the space to grow things yourself or whatever reason, that doesn’t rule out the local fruit and veggie stands and farmer’s markets. Get a good deal on tomatoes one day at such a market and try your hand at home canning. It can be addictive!
MICHAEL’S NOTE: Even if you do live in a small space there are tons of things you can grow in a container whether it be a window box, hanging basket or a 5-gallon bucket. Container gardening is so easy that anyone can do it - even you!
The child is the father to the man!
Inspirational post, as always. It makes me want to get permission for window boxes on the sunny side of the building!