simple home, peaceful mind - a year of frugality and intentional living
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- čas přidán 14. 10. 2024
- Ok, so… this video is a bit all over the place, but it’s the beginning of a big project: a few weeks go my husband and I started a huge and in-depth journey of going through every item in our home to decide how to simplify, minimize our items (while prioritizing our art hobbies and baby supplies, of course) and embrace a new era of living more intentionally, with a focus on slowness, simplicity, and frugality - to prepare for times ahead when we take time away to be parents and both experience some drastic shifts in our careers in the near future. We’ve always been people that just putter about at home and don’t go out much or even travel often, we stay put for the most part and continue on quietly, but we wanted to use this year and encouragement to be just a bit more mindful each day, and build up our resources for unknown future times ahead. I hope this inspires you to spend some time working on projects you’ve been putting off, or just decluttering or simplifying. Next week will be an in-depth look at the process on our end, with hopes of inspiring any of you seeking to do the same in 2024 ❤️
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Ok, so… this video is a bit all over the place, but it’s the beginning of a big project: a few weeks go my husband and I started a huge and in-depth journey of going through every item in our home to decide how to simplify, minimize our items (while prioritizing our art hobbies and baby supplies, of course) and embrace a new era of living more intentionally, with a focus on slowness, simplicity, and frugality - to prepare for times ahead when we take time away to be parents and both experience some drastic shifts in our careers in the near future. We’ve always been people that just putter about at home and don’t go out much or even travel often, we stay put for the most part and continue on quietly, but we wanted to use this year to be just a bit more mindful each day, and build up our resources for unknown future times ahead. I hope this inspires you to spend some time working on projects you’ve been putting off, or just decluttering or simplifying. Next week will be an in-depth look at the process on our end, with hopes of inspiring any of you seeking to do the same in 2024 ❤️
🕯Due to popular request, the candle Pixie Whispers is from Mythologie Candle Company: mythologiecandles.com/?ref=uBhiQtNDKFqsC4
I am making orange cranberry muffins in this video: sallysbakingaddiction.com/cranberry-orange-muffins/
We did this very thing when pregnant with our first child. I am not exaggerating when I say we must have given away or sold 75% of our belongings! I couldn’t believe how much I conformed to the consumer culture before becoming a mother, and I am so very grateful to my daughter for coming along and opening my eyes to it. Enjoy your simplicity journey. It feels so good to let the nonessential things go.
@TheCottageFairy DEAR thank you very much for your channel. perfect and beautiful!!!!!!thank you
Good Morning Sweetheart ❤️ This is An Awesome video as usual!!! I Think you were brought up in A Wonderful Loving family!!!💜🤗💜 I was brought up the same way!!!💜🤗💜 I wouldn't change A Thing!!!💗🤗💗 The Simple Life is The Best Life!!!💛🤗💛 You are SUCH A BEAUTIFUL PREGNANT LADY!!!💕🤗💕 Those muffins Look SO Yummy Delicious 😋 We Love y'all so very much sweetheart ❤️ Have A JOYFUL FUN FILLED DAY!!!💚💐💚 GOD IS SO AMAZING!!!🙏💙🙏💙
You really don’t know what love is until you have a baby. Your urge to protect this new life becomes all encompassing. A wonderful experience although a little scary due to the unknown will be the most joyful thing you both will have done…
Was waiting for you eagerly...nd here u are...and when the baby arrives I will be away for a while...dis is what u said in ur last video if m nt wrong...I was just recalling those lines bt anyway happy to see u ...take care paola❤❤❤.when is ur d day???
I am a young-ish widow, and live alone in a nice, but modest rental home. I had a big clean out during 2023. For a full year I went through my home. Every room, every closet, every drawer, every cupboard. I got rid of 1,123 items in my home. I was very pleased with my effort. I donated everything that was still in good condition and had to throw away very little. It was ridiculous that I owned so much stuff.
It would look so cool if you painted the door to look like wood planks. Lord knows you have the talent!
I’m 64 1/2 divorced. Doing the same in second round since selling the house and having my own townhouse. It’s very rewarding to get rid of stuff. Paying down a bit of debt before Soc Security at 67.
Lovely vlog gives me inspiration…love from Portugal 🇵🇹
@@rachelarroyo6050 or maybe even just strip the door down to its wood and stain it to match the other wood. Because the house is a sort of homey cottage with lots of plants and wood around. I think that would look beautiful if the door was just in natural wood.
Good job! I wish I could do that.
I’m in my 20s and live with my parents. I’ve lived in this house and had the same bedroom since I was a small child. My aunt, who is disabled, moved in with us. She’s been staying in our living room for now. And I’ve been working hard, going through all of my belongings and moving them (what I’m keeping) upstairs to a bedroom. It’s technically the attic, but it’s nice. And I’m excited about moving up there. My aunt will take my old bedroom, which is on the main floor. She’s a sweet person, and I don’t mind doing this for her.
Sounds wonderful that you will have the attic for yourself. If I was young and still at home with my parents---I would prefer it. It would be more private, and you can make it your own little sanctuary. There's so many things you can do to make it a very cute and cozy space. Keep watching creative channels like this one, to come up with some good ideas.
What a wonderful thing to do for a beloved aunt. Bless your heart and I hope your attic room will be cozy.
bless u for your generosity & kindness
❤
This is the right thing. I can’t imagine how terrible she must feel being sick and perhaps a burden but people love her and don’t mind. I’m sure. You are amazing you will be very blessed for being unselfish and doing this sacrifice. You will be taken care when I’ll or old age. Karma. ❤ God bless you.
You will never regret such a lovely gesture, an act of love to someone in need.
I want to admit sth...whenever i feel down and depressed i watch your videos they're literally my therapy:)
Same
That is the reason i tuned in today as well.
😊😊
Motherhood is the most beautiful gift God gives us , I think.
You’ll never love anyone like you will your child.
It’s a love like no other.
Just admiring Paola's baby bump is enough to convey some of the joy of motherhood to those of us who will never know it firsthand! Paola seems to convey joy in everything she does!
Motherhood is not for everyone
@@connieboylan9159 Nope. It's not for my my household. My wife didn't want to bear children, and I didn't want to pass my genes. Match made in heaven! 🙂
But Paola wears her motherhood magically, and I'm glad she's passing on her genes!
It is a gift from God. A miracle of God.
@@connieboylan9159 In my opinion--every woman is a "mother", whether she's borne children--or not. It's a loving, nurturing spirit that is part of being female. My childless, middle-aged daughter is one of the greatest mothers I've ever known. Her tender, devoted care that she has always exhibited toward her nieces and nephews, her pets, even plants---every living thing...is the universal mothering spirit that is inherent in the female nature.
I went through hard times when i lost my parents in 4 months 😢and i have 1 disabled sister need to look after her with no support because she is not Citizen and i can't get any support from the government.
Have a husband doesn't care about me and teenager boy don't expect too much from him.
I went through all this hard times by myself. The only support was God gives me strength & peace.
When i am really feeling down watching your videos made me feel up and keep me moving on.
Thank u so much for sharing.
God Bless U forever ❤❤Love u
Wow virtual hug!! Stay strong my dear.
Wow that’s amazing! Keep going you got this and God’s got you never fear he is always by your side till the end of days peace be with you 🙏🏼❤️🕊️✝️💕
😊😊
Strength and love ❤
Paola, you are even more beautiful and glowing with your pregnancy. And yes, pregnancy and children do cause us to change in many ways, it’s a whole new magical experience. Bravo to you guys for pursuing a frugal, simple lifestyle, like restoring your door instead of it going to a landfill. I am 68 and I love my simple life, it’s where all the true blessings are found; family, nature, good books and good food! Thank you for another peaceful, inspiring and visually beautiful video. 🌿
Simple life is so lovely. ❤
Aw ❤ Thank you so much!! I appreciate the lovely message
I just need to stop spending too much time on my phone (but I am too addicted) and it would be the perfect simple calm life I imagined
Being a mother is the greatest gift you will ever receive❤️. Just when you think you have found love, the love you will feel the moment you hold this precious baby it hits you like a ton of bricks. You will remember everything that involved the birth. My daughter is 47 and my son is 39 I still remember that first look, touch and first cry. I really enjoy every video. May you have a Blessed day❤️❤️❤️
I am retired and live alone. I have been in my house for 10 years now and I have become painfully aware of how I have collected and accumulated things - things that I no longer want or need. So, yes, I am in a major spring cleaning of my own. I can honestly say it is such a freeing feeling to experience the transformation. On another note, I am very intrigued by your husband's crystal collection. I live near the Great Smoky Mountains in East Tennessee and I don't believe we have those here, but it is certainly a good place to keep an eye out for other unique finds from nature! Thank you for the vlog and I hope that rest of your pregnancy goes well for you, your husband, and your child. I enjoy watching your videos from week to week.
In north Arkansas mountains there are crystals. The ones I have I picked up walking on trails.
East Tennessee probably have crystals.
"Live as simply as possible,
Be humble in one's desires
Consume with intention." - Paola Merrill
You are so beautiful, Paola. Inside and out. You always say what my heart needs to hear. Thank you.
Motherhood is a great gift, one that is life changing. Your love for your child will transform you without you even trying. It is already beginning. I love that you are working on finishing little details of your "nest" - as soon as you began talking about the door I immediately saw it with hand painted pine boughs and pine cones and a squirrel perched in one corner. Looking forward to seeing what you settle on.
After a long day of watching my twin grandchildren, I came home to a package I was so looking forward to. My Cottage Fairy Book I have treated myself to. I too have spent my life living carefully,,,choosing how I most want to spend my time and money. I was blessed to be able to stay home with my children and raise them and now to help with my grandchildren. We live in a simple home on the shores of Lake Michigan and we feel so blessed. Thank you for sharing all you do. I can't wait to sit down and enjoy my new book.
I am 72 yrs old, and my thinking is opposite of yours.I am a artist, in many ways..my home is filled with beautiful things, I love collecting, very chosen items... no clutter, not sure
That word is used in a right way sometimes..my home in very clean balanced and
Interesting. Even at my age, I am interested in discovering beautiful items for my yard and home..
I hope I have many years of collecting, staying healthy and enjoying my life.I am very grateful and blessed..❤
Thank you for sharing - my intention as well is to be thoughtful about the items I have in my home, for me it’s not about getting rid of everything, instead valuing and keeping what I love and enjoy ❤
its all about intention! Whats right for one, may not be right for another. My dad is also a collector of things, but its overwhelming, and he often does not know what he has, because he has too much. I am now at the age where I find myself very happy with what I have, but want to edit down these things, because I couldn't possibly use it all, and it can be better loved elsewhere. I also find that by editing down what I have, I can better enjoy and treasure what really brings me joy.
You look absolutely stunning. Rest assured you'll always have our support no matter what.
Lovely video. Simplicity and frugality bring so much freedom, bravo to you! Newborns need very little in the way of "stuff", too, but it's quite easy to get caught up in thinking they do. Best wishes, I know in my heart you'll do well.
It's so nice Paola what your saying about your lovely plans is just what I read from the Bible this morning " The plans of the diligent one surely lead to sucess" (Proverbs 21:5) ❤❤
"... they just keep growing, putting what energy they have into life, because for them there is no point to existing if you can't grow. It's an absolute must". That's life in a nutshell, isn't it? Love it! Thanks as always lovely Paola for sharing with us! Love and hugs!!
Every moment to come is unknown, but within each moment is the truth of simply being.
I am downsizing my home in a big way. My husband passed away in September 2022. For several years prior to his passing, I was his sole caregiver. At the same time, I was also ill, so all of my effort went to taking care of him. In the time since, I have been focused on getting myself healthy, including several surgeries. All that to say that it has been several years since I had the ability to go through my home and rid myself of the things that are no longer needed. It is going to take some time, but I look forward to clearing things out. Most of what I clear out will be donated.
You have been through so much. As a 76 year old, I feel for you. Life is a journey and some of the paths are very difficult. i wish you well.
When you simplify... box the things you may pass down to your daughter. Now that mine is 17, it's a joy to see her in my old things. Of course, she doesn't favour my favourites and wears stuff differently. But O, the joy!
While I was watching your lovely video, I had a sudden thought - you could create an amazing and beautiful children's book! Your video is so gentle and calming, it cheered me up. And yes, it inspired me.
How fortunate you are to have realized at your age that "less is more". I'm 70 now, and decluttering is a much greater task, what with all the years of gathering. But I'm working on it! A good book that inspired me is "The Gentle Art of Swedish Death Cleaning". (It's not morbid as the title might suggest, parts are very humorous! 😊)
Paola Your videos are absolutely breathtaking, I love them. You are so beautiful, natural, and true in your philosophy of simple living and 'treading gently, on the earth'. You are an inspiration! Love the bunnies, love your dog and little cat! Thank you for the joy you bring! love sue xxx
'Trading gently on the earth' The world needs millions more Paolas.
The frolicking spring fairy is now a fairy mother🥺❤
Ah, you're so radiant and beautiful, Paola! So good to see the sign of a little human snuggled against his mommy's heart. Enjoy this time of change, dear one. Looking forward to your next video. Hugs and best wishes from Mossel Bay in South Africa 🇿🇦
Only keep the things that bring you joy!
When I saw the purple door, my reaction was that it was a delightful color! If it were mine, I wouldn't change it.
Thank you.
Your videos are like meditation for me.
It's quiet time, nature, reflection. 🌸
I understand what you are doing and how you want to live. In the past I had the big life, big job, big house, big car, even lived in a big city. With all I had the one thing I was not...was happy. My husband and I had grown apart and were no longer on the same page. We went our separate ways. 10 years later at age 50 I met my now husband; we have been together for 15 years. We live a simple life in a 4-room house in the mountains of NC. I retired early and spend my time in my art studio. I have been living a frugal life and want to make it even more so. I have been spending the past month looking at my home and seeing where I can simplify it even more.
Your baby is so blessed to have you as a mama. It's going to have an incredble childhood! Love watching your nesting.
I would suggest that you switch to beeswax candles that actually clean the air as other waxes emit particulates that go deep down into the lungs.
I have been undergoing phases of 'decluttering' over the past 6 years. Following a big move (drastic) and the deaths of my mother and brother it made me realize (finally) that decluttering is not just about 'stuff'. For me, it is about myself, my value, and prioritizing the physical stuff and needs in and into my life. My next stage is drastic decluttering. I am not moving, but want to create more 'space' in my home. I am not going to refill it. I need a space for my new art passion (no need to buy, have it all) however and this process will enable it. 2024 for me is a mindful journey as well. One day at a time.
So beautiful, Paola, your home with the lace curtains and beautiful colors, your soul, Luke’s Chrystal’s, it’s all magical. Thank you always for every episode. 🙏💜🕊
Love your hairstyle Paola and the inside of your lovely home always calms me. ❤
Yes, spring is in the air! You look radiant! I am also going through a decluttering phase. For years neighbors in my small island community have been giving me lovely cast off items from their homes which I’ve squirreled away for potential use in my own home build. Now I’m finally working on the interior, and can accurately assess each item and whether it will actually work in my new space. Next month we’ll have a community flea market, so all my unused items will be able to go to other homes in the community to be recycled yet again.
You could do a painted stain glass on the door window I've done a few projects like that in my home and it's fun and turns out beautiful
I have just retired and finally decluttered my entire home and the feeling of relief is wonderful !
Thx Paola. You have a baby bump! Cheering you on from here. Let us know when you start feeling little kicks!
Decluttering is important and necessary, but my observation is that it needs to be mindfully done with good communication. My wife and I decluttered years ago, and we used to have "discussions" regarding what to keep and what to get rid of. There were items of mine that I valued, yet bowing to pressure, it was decided to get rid of them. Years later, I still think about some of the items and wish that I still had them, they may be inconsequential to others, but to me they were important. We are going to be decluttering again soon, but with age and maturity have decided to move slower on getting rid of stuff and truly listening to each other. It helps that we have been doing mini cleaning/decluttering sessions, this has brought understanding between us.
So, the short version is, don't rush the decluttering, take your time and communicate with each other when deciding what should leave.
That is great advice ❤️ thank you so much!
..... Meaning...you ARE Authentic... You be who you are.... I Love that about you...
Watching your videos always makes me feel so relaxed and settled - thank you ❤️
I appreciate your journey to simplify and declutter things no longer needed. Holding onto things can often indicate holding onto the past in a nonproductive way that can block growth. I am trying to do that too and your video softly supports me❤ Sending 💕love
You can paint the glass window in your door. There are product that look like lead but are easy to mold. With your artistic talent it could be simple but beautiful. The best part is you can remove it if you get tired of it. Even glue will give you a frosted look when it dries.
You look lovely, Paola. Thank you for the new insparing video! ❤
You’re nesting, how lovely and precious. Brings back happy memories. Thank you!
I am a crafter & I love using recycled objects to create new art. My problem is that I save way more than I will probably ever be able to use. My craft area is becoming very cluttered & it is actually preventing me from creating very much at all. This video has inspired me to let go of some of the objects that I have saved & to focus on using a smaller number of them. I love your videos. They are so relaxing to watch & the nature scenes that you share in them are some of my favorite to watch. I also live in the PNW, having moved here from Nevada in 2011 & I very much enjoy the greener environment. I placed an order today for a couple of your art prints & I cannot wait to receive them! Thank you for sharing some of your life & your talent with us. It is such a breath of fresh air away from some of the sadness we hear about on the news way too often. I try not to hear too much of it if I can possibly avoid it.
After your video telling how you all were raised, there's no doubt in my mind, you are going to be the most wonderful of mom's. Speaking of your artwork, curious if the nursery will have some nature mural. I can see the baby being looked after by bunnies, fox, deer & birds.
I always love your videos. I love the simplicity and mindful life that you live. Thank you for sharing with us your thoughts and feelings. They help a lot. You look radiant pregnant Paola. You are on the right track. Hopefully you will share you child with us, but keeping in mind that he needs to be kept safe. Love to you and your family. ❤
Helllo Paola..
Your voice it self is so refreshing, restoring,
And of course calming ❤❤
I’m just doing spring cleaning and it’s helping me declutter the small closets I have in my two bedroom apartment in the city I’m located. I’ve listened to Mrs. Sylvia Ahora, and she indicated to me that washing the dishes right after I used it became so simple and less tedious than when I piled them up. Living intentionally and frugality is the ways to go in this fast paced world. Enjoy your beautiful motherhood. When I was pregnant almost forty years ago, I had treasure every moment ( almost , not the morning sickness). Blessed 🙏
You are nesting. Preparing your home and your life for your coming baby and Spring is the perfect time for nesting.
I love how you have transformed your home into a beautiful, warm, lovely cottage 🏠 the eggs are beautiful! I have been decluttering as well. It’s amazing how quickly we consume things! Thanks for sharing with me 💖💐🌹🧁
You are beautiful…I love seeing your home.
Decluttering is Freedom.
Six months before my retirement In 2015 I started cleaning out closets, cabinets and clothes.
I only kept minimal number of dishes, 2 sets of summer sheets and 2 sets of winter sheets, enough blankets and quilts in the event of electricity loss and clothes for the new lifestyle of retirement.
I donated coffee cups to a local restaurant, clothes , sheets, blankets and dishes to 3 young mothers that lost things in house fires.
I only buy needed items of clothes. I make my laundry detergent for less than $5.00 for 5 gallon bucket, which lasts me over a year. I use natural cleaners: baking soda, white vinegar, salt for cleaning.
I bathe and shampoo my hair with liquid Dr. Bronner’s Castile soap. A little goes a long way.
There are so many ways to live frugal and healthy.
I’m excited to see you and your husband with your baby.
A baby changes everything…
Hugs and much Love from Arkansas. ❤️
I just LOVE your channel! Wishing you love, hope, and positive energy for the new baby! You are going to be a great mommy!!
Dear Paola, you look radiant and at peace with yourself and the world ❤ just want you to know how much we all love and appreciate the beautiful person you are. A fabulous journey awaits when the birth of the fairy prince graces your lives. Xx sending love from Australia. Francesca
Enjoy your videos so much. I will also be simplifying this spring as I am feeling overwhelmed with the clutter around me.
Perfect timing! Synchronicity! At 76 and partially disabled I’m learning it’s quite alright to take things slower and to take frequent breaks! I live in a small Victorian that was built in 1907 and I have lived here over 35 years and have accumulated quite a lot. Things I used to love no longer evoke the same feelings within me or are no longer useful to me. I’ve been decluttering on and off since the first of the year, took a bit of a break and am now ready to continue on! I’ll look forward to your next video in hopes of being inspired and encouraged. Do take good care as you navigate these new waters! 😊
I, too, am purging as I have accumulated so much over 64 years. We have downsized homes a couple of times over the past decade and have found that the purging has not kept in step with the loss of square footage. You inspire me in so many ways and love the happy and motivated way I feel each time I watch your lovely videos. You are so beautiful and radiant as you grow your precious baby boy. Best wishes to you in the months ahead and I will think of you very fondly as I gather my goods for the Mission and Goodwill. 🙏✨💛
I’ve been cleaning for the past two days. My son is at school. But I have yet to work on my closet… Thank you for the inspiration, and the reminder to get to that closet!
You are so lovely in that pink!! I am also changing inwardly and outwardly, making my home and finances more supportive. There is a Taoist saying “The root’s stability makes possible the leaf’s communion with the air.” (Waterway,translated by Crispin Sartwell), so I am calling this phase “tending the roots”.
You are even more lovely these days! I love the clothes and colors. Motherhood is a lovely time. Thank you for including us as you bake and live each day to the best of heart. Anna
All the best to you and your family Paola, I soooo enjoy your videos, they are breath of tranquility and peace!!❤
I so enjoy your videos. They bring memories of the life we had as a couple preparing ourselves and our home for first baby. We lived for many years in rural, forested, hilly upstate NY. Lots of concerns by our generation of preserving history and nature. Loved taking our babes in arms for hikes and attending bluegrass festivals. My first born is nearly 40 now. Thank you for this sweet, tender egg gathering, muffin making and eating moment. You are loved by many, including me! ❤️
❤❤ The muffins look so yummy. Love your husband's crystal collection. Your hanging herbs and flowers brought back fond memories for me of picking herbs and flowers most everywhere I went as a young adult. I would stick them over my visors in my VW bug. It was so full ......I loved it!! You make a beautiful expecting lady. May many blessings come your way.❤❤
I think the terracotta paint will be lovely. You are absolutely glowing. I hope this means you are over morning sickness. You look healthy and beautiful.
I too have been simplifying. I finally went through my closet going through all clothes and things. I too had many clothes that brought back memories of a time in my life that was not happy. And so I let them go to a local charity where someone would find them anew and bring happier memories for them. It was very freeing and to go through our apartment and have only things that are of importance is fun too. I too am an artist and book lover so my whimsy and books have stayed with me as well. I hope you enjoy your going through like I did and I look forward to seeing your video. P.S. The small amount of childhood sentimental things I have, I kept. I hope you keep yours too....❤
I'm gonna leave this comment before I watch the video (Saving it to watch/listen in the background as I declutter my room later):
I have the "Return CZcams Dislike" extension, and this is the first video I've EVER seen with 10k Likes and 0 Dislikes!!! (This is 2 days after the video upload). That's incredible!!! Love your work Paola, and although we all know that numbers shouldn't dictate the value of one's work, I do believe that in this case it is truly a testament to the wonderful work and care you put into your videos, and how relevant and well-articulated your wisdom is in this area of self-care, attitude and home life, seeing beauty and appreciating simplicity in the day-to-day things. Love from Singapore!!
March first starts my Spring cleaning yearly. It's a renewal of sorts, a refreshing in the heart and soul as well as the home!
Hermoso hogar!
Hermosos cristales🎉
Cuidese y cuide a su guawuita (bebe) 🎉
Un abrazo desde Chile😊❤
When I see your house it feels like I’m watching a scene of warm spring nature ❤
I too have gone through rapid change and big challenges this winter. I barely recognize myself, coming out at the other end. Amplified by spring fever, I felt a good wardrobe clean out was in order. Donated a big bag of it to charity, and I don't regret a single thing. Simplifying feels like coming back to base with our core values and desires. That's how I experience it.
It's the kindest blog I have ever seen. Can't stop admiring it! You are going to be an excellent mother! Lots of love from Russia ❤
I am an artist of words and home making and a mother and home educator of almost five little people, and your reflective words and beautiful videos have been a source of inspiration and encouragement. I feel I am on a similar journey in many ways of learning to enjoy who I’ve been created to be and do my own thing, finding strength gently and confidently. I’ve been a quiet observer of your channel for so long, but wanted to say thank you today. I am so excited for your own mothering journey beginning, and found comfort today in your words about feeling like nothing will change, but then suddenly seeing the signs of life and Spring. My own little one is taking their time in arriving, so I’m working to accept the longer wait, knowing this slow period has a meaningful reason for me and for Baby. I, too, am on a roll with finding more and more ways to simplify for frugality and peace of mind this year! And I think it’s the prenatal nesting on top of spring cleaning right now, making it feel even more exciting! Looking forward to your next video. ❤
Ahh, you're nesting!!! I really love your nurturing approach of simplicity and appreciation. That perspective will serve you well, but you already understand that. Your husband's crystal collection is so nice, naturally cultivated and spiritual! Thank you for a lovely video!
(I'm wondering if my comments are visible here, can anyone tell me? I seem to be having some trouble with CZcams.)
Instead of simplifying for Spring I seem to be drawn to buying new crystals!` I wish I could find them around where I live.
I think a terra cotta paint will look great on your door. Paint can make such a difference and you're inspiring me to do some painting. You're muffins looked delicious!
Your comment is visible Janet. I too, have gotten a sudden interest in finding some beautiful crystals.
My husband and I both have started cleaning out/reorganizing things and it always feels good to do so. A suggestion for “dressing up” the window in your front door, or any window, is faux stained glass. I purchased several kits nearly 30 years ago and had great success with them. You essentially use a pattern and paint on the glass, with light still coming through but also giving you privacy. The paint dries like a thin film of plastic, so peels right off if you decide at some point you don’t want it. Doesn’t harm the glass at all. There is usually faux leading included as well. Wishing you and your family the best year ever😊
After the first of the year I began going through our historical bungalow to clean and declutter. It’s amazing how many things you can easily let go. I find I have to do it in stages because decision fatigue sets in if I try to do too much in a session. I feel so much freedom and it reminds me how much I have to be thankful for! I have found if I have to spend too much time justifying why I should keep something it usually means it should go. Happy decluttering! ❤
Ahhh, yes, spring is coming. Purging as I watched your video. We humans need to be at a time and place where we can just be. Less is a beautiful place to live. Thank you for reminding us all
In anticipation of the future relocation, I have started doing a clean out of my apartment. The last time I did this was ten years ago after my wife passed away. One would be amazed at how much stuff one accumulates in ten years' time even without trying. Relocation aside, I am trying to focus on decorating in a style that reflects my present self.
I love your husbands natural crystal collection. As an artist and recycler I have collected a lot of stuff over the years. I have been sorting it out , little by little on rainy days. It does feel good to get rid of stuff we no longer need.
These words I needed to hear exactly right now at a transitional time in my life. I am a minimalist, making things harder for myself than they need to be. I sense a turning point. Btw you are simply glowing, look very healthy and well. Nice to see you
You have a very creative mind. Can't wait to see the things you create for the baby. God bless you. 🙏🥰
your voice makes me feel relaxed .be simple be true be here are the most meaningful goals at all . with u i can feel that so well .thank you for your simplicity ♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️
You look so beautiful! That blush tunic top is just gorgeous on you.
Simplifying is a great idea right now - that teeny little person will take up a lot of space in your home. It’s quite surprising! Lol!
You’re nesting! How exciting! 🤗☺️🪹
Thank you for the lovely and inspiring videos! 🩷 Watching you place the paint swatches on the stairs made me envision an ombre effect going from dark to light as they ascend. It could be beautiful. Sending love and light your way. 😊
Consider a "stained glass sticker" film for your front door window. Still let's in light, but adds character.
I am from the countryside of Sweden but have been living in the uk for almost a decade. Although I’m planning to move back in the next few years my heart aches and I find it more difficult living the way I want while I’m here. Especially sharing a house with others. Your videos help me focus on the little things I can do to feel calm and joy in my surroundings. It’s almost like it helps me reset when my mind and environment becomes a bit to chaotic and my thoughts spiral. Thank you for what you do. 💚
Inspired by a photo I saw online, a few years ago I painted the risers on my stairs to look like books stacked with the bindings showing one per step. As much as you like books, I thought you might like the idea. The hardest part was choosing which books!
I am always working on letting go of things. I am not so fast in my senior years, but I still make progress. Today I sold a few dog items no longer needed and made $20. It’s not a lot, but better than giving it to the thrift store. Although I do give at least one or two bags to them monthly. Life is easier without so much stuff!
It has been such an unusual winter here in Iowa…here it is March…and we are getting 70 degree weather…these warmer days has prompted me to do spring cleaning…like wash windows..take down my curtains…wash & rehang them….BUT …😂…I AM holding off…as it IS only March as Mother Nature can certainly change her mind. Enjoy ur videos so much. TY.🩷
Love the terracotta color for the door. Maybe a cool color from the inner window frame...turquoise? Just an idea! As I tell a super creative soul, but I could not help myself. 🕊
Thank you for your sweet spirit. I really enjoy watching and listening as I do my own chores. I feel that as I work alone, I am accompanied. I love you life perspectives. They help to ground me as well.
When you compared plants blooming only to get eaten by hungry critters - and how we take similar set backs like this to heart and become afraid of everything or cautious in our journey of life - it really, truly resonated with me. I’m so worried about what others think I can’t truly be happy. I’m so cooped up in my own mind of believing that people are judging me when in reality they’re just living their own lives and living in their own movie film. Thank you for reminding me to give myself grace and to acknowledge the set backs and go forward without being afraid.
My life is up in the air, and this hit home. Looking at what I no longer need and not to hold on just because of the story it represents. I am so excited for your new chapter.
the terracotta color for the door is a wonderful choice with regard to your green walls. i appreciate you sharing links to treats that you make also! you are glowing with motherhood, and i remember that cleaning/organizing realm too. we were selling our old house and i put in new kitchen flooring close to my due date! your videos are such a treat always Paola. thank you for your honesty and sharing
Motherhood is making you glow!🧚
I love your whimsical decorations art 🎭🎨 and wisdom. ❤ Hope your getting enough rest your a busy pregnant bee by the sounds of everything your doing 🐝 Make sure you rest and enjoy your pregnancy sending well wishes and lots of good luck and happiness for yours and your families future all the way from the lake District uk ❤🌍
Watching Paola's videos always makes me dream to return home in the province. Far from the noisy and chaotic city life. Im 36, and I cant wait to reach my retirement by the age of 60-65 ❤
Frugality is a very good thing.Luv all your videos Paola,you have a knack for doing it well.❤
Absolutely engaging in Springtime cleaning; as an item enters our home, an item is exchanged to go out. We donate regularly to local organizations (e.g. old sheets, tshirts, towels for animal shelter), consign some things, hand-me-downs, etc. It’s been good not to have a basement & limited storage to pass along toys, bikes, books, whatever. Asking people if anyone needs a coat or skateboard or whatever … it’s a flow, a circuit …. We’ve enjoyed neighbors sharing with us as we’ve raised our three children ~ now teens!!! and hope they will continue reflecting on what they consume & how ~ it’s ongoing, as change, as seasons come & go. ✨✨✨