Well, here we are: 3 weeks into no-spend January and still alive and breathing! We have approximately 1 week left, and part of us doesn’t want the challenge to end. This experience has been incredibly fulfilling, and actually lots of fun! The largest consequence, and perhaps the result that we both are enjoying so much, is the re-centering around home. Rather than eating out, we’ve been cooking together and eating in, instead of going out, we’ve been settling in. We’ve explored new places, read some good books, organized and simplified, and had lots of quality time together. I’ve taken (many) baths and practiced yoga; in a sense I’ve unplugged for the external world, and gotten back in touch with my heart and inner person want and need.

I feel closer to Carlos, healthier and better-fed, happier and more content with all that I have. I actually recognize the irony of this challenge, is our privilege to undertake it in the first place. We have everything that we need, we live in a safe home, in a dynamic and engaging city, with natural beauty all around us. Yet despite these things, the challenge has still proven to be difficult. It’s funny how the wanting of one thing, leads to the next, which leads to something else. The additions to our “want to buy” list have been in spurts, making me think that the spirit of consumption feeds off of itself. I have put money very intentionally towards student loans, savings, and organizations doing important work.

In the tough moments, when my heart feels that bit of anxiety, the itch that begs to be scratched with just a small purchase (or three) off Amazon, I’ve had to re-frame that desire and look inside: What do I really want? What can I do in this moment to  come alive, feel more connected, and serve myself or others? Sometimes that answer has been to try a new recipe, another time it was to paint a picture, often its been to read a book (I’m on my 4th for the month!) With that simple re-framing I have felt more productive, satisfied, and content. I’ve realized my incredible capacity to be a homebody and introvert. This challenge has given me a pretty good excuse to stay in and charge up, I think next month my challenge might need to involve finding ways to get out and give back.

Here’s to one more week of no-spend bliss, and hopefully a lifetime of living conscientiously, simply, and well. Today I feel gratitude for my #1 partner in crime, who I get to live this life with. I am thankful for the privilege to undertake a challenge like this, and the authority to create the kind of life I want to live, in a place that I choose.

Let your light shine, baby! Do good & be goodness. ❤