I feel like I have been writing a lot about time lately. From how I use it during the day to get done what needs to be done around here to how quickly it seems to be flying as I watch my kids change before my eyes. Above anything else, I have a very strong desire to spend time with those I love. That is what matters most.
Time isn’t something to be saved up today and get a 9% return on for later. It’s here, it’s gone and there is one chance to spend it wisely, never to be gotten back.
Whether it is with kids, friends, parents, siblings, or other loved ones, I decide to spend time together above all else and know that I don’t have to spend money to show love, to have fun, or to do things that matter.
Yes, I need to spend money in life. But there are so many opportunities to simply spend time with those I love while doing what I love.
- go for a walk
- pick up the phone
- play a game
- bake something
- read books with the kids
- make something
- sit and talk
- go outside
There are so many things to do – simple things – to fill the fleeting moments that don’t involve spending money in a failing attempt to be fulfilled or to fulfill others. Often the obvious and fulfilling things are replaced with things we sometimes fool ourselves into believing are worth more because we pay for them with dollars.
What do you do to spend time instead of money?
We do lots of “free” things, too. For instance, my DH and my 3 year old DS spend lots of time doing “guy stuff” — things with tools. They love doing simple things, like tightening cabinet knobs and replacing air filters. Even when he was a year old, DS could properly use a screwdriver.
We go on walks, play games, and throw the balls for the dogs. In fact, we really never go to things like movies and plays. I wish we would, but having the little one has kept us from doing stuff like that.
living with lindsay´s last blog post..Teach me Tuesday: How to Buy Thrift Store Furniture
[Reply]
I love this! Sometimes we forget that “going out” doesn’t have to be synonymous with “spending money.” There are plenty of free things to do that will bring you closer to your family — and offer experiences and memories that money can’t buy.
Miranda´s last blog post..Yielding Wealth Looking for Guest Posters
[Reply]
We take walks to the library. Outside the library, there is a huge field, perfect for running and kicking a ball. (weather permitting, of course) In cold weather, we spread a blanket on the floor of the family room, and have a picnic — sometimes with real food, sometimes with pretend food.
Karen Irwin´s last blog post..Lessons from a 5-year old
[Reply]
We try to do these things on the weekends when we get cabin fever and want to get out & do something but not go out to eat or go shopping. It’s a little more difficult here in Ohio where the weather can be a big factor in getting out. I love reading books from the library for free entertainment, or cooking a delicious meal, or getting together with friends to play a game or watch a movie.
Chiot’s Run´s last blog post..Dress Up 2 Cure: Join Me
[Reply]
I spend a lot of time reading books after the little one is asleep. My husband makes fun of me because I’ll sometimes put one book down and pick up another one.
Libraries are a great way to avoid spending money.
Rachel´s last blog post..Stride Rite Review
[Reply]
We are big on 2 non negotiable Family Game Nighs Monday and Saturday, daily audio books on car drives to school promotes a lot of discussion, looking for roly poly bugs and butterflies (we live in southern CA), and defintely drop everything and read time.
[Reply]
I love having potlucks with neighbors. Everyone takes a look in their fridge and voila! A party. Light some candles, put on some music and you have a memorable evening.
julia@lookiloos´s last blog post..Painting Tips from the Pros
[Reply]
I like going for a walk. It’s good for your health, it’s relaxing, calms you down, let’s you enjoy nature and get’s you into a good mood – and it’s free.
Claudia´s last blog post..Kartoffelpuffer mal anders
[Reply]
[...] this Life suggests you spend time not money. I’ve been thinking about this a lot lately myself. The best things in life really are free, [...]
[...] Worried about how much money the government is spending? Most people are, but Emily at Remodeling This Life encourages us to Spend Time, Not Money [...]