When nothing = something

As we near the end of January which I have aptly named the 'month of nothing', it seemed a good time to reflect.  January began as an experiment in buying nothing for one month.  Nothing was defined as things I might want but not necessarily need.  Looking back, I feel confident in saying that a large part of the desire to do this was in response to the experience of December - lots of shopping, gift giving/receiving and satisfying wants, not really needs.

January was not without the urge to buy things (in particular I have developed a desire for an e-reader!).  I coped with these urges by just noticing them and then telling myself that I do not really need the item, or I could always come back to it later.  It helped that I had made the commitment to buy nothing out loud, it made me feel more accountable.  Several wonderful things came out of buying nothing.  First, my bank account looks bigger (and more happy), my house is not filled with extra things, I spent less time shopping which I channeled into getting some exercise (until I came down with the most recent sickness), I also became more thoughtful about what I already own and using things more often and with dual purpose.  As we move into February, I am going to keep the mindset, process and benefits of thoughtful buying.  For me, January was the month when nothing turned into something.

What did January teach you?

P.S. The special guest blogger (my oldest) wants to share that she is thankful for Daddy.  When asked, she explains that Daddy is loveable, kissable and huggable.  She makes your heart melt she does!  Today's picture was taken by that most huggable Daddy.