A Thrifty History

Living thrifty is a skill that i have learned over time and esteem more highly than the next paycheck. As a teenager i loved shopping goodwill, salvation army, and other local thrift stores to find that perfect old man sweater or the finest red metal futon around at a price only a seventeen year old BBQ restaurant cashier could afford. As i journeyed through art school, i used my thrifty skills to channel by creativity on a budget. Searching for art supplies at 50% discount prices, buying used text books online, and creating unique sculptural pieces from scrap wood marked my college experience.  I applied for every scholarship available and even managed to study abroad in France for 4 weeks for a $1000 ( BTW- this included travel, room, board, tuition, and spending money). Not too shabby.

Now as a stay-at home mom and super wife :), my resourceful living is one of my greatest assets. Living thrifty challenges my creativity, maximizes our family's resources and makes everyday living a cheap thrill. We live abundantly and healthfully on a $250 monthly grocery budget for our family of four which includes food, toiletries, and paper products. I purchase seasonal fruits and veggies, fresh frozen veggies, and healthy whole grain staples like brown rice, dry beans, and whole wheat pasta. No cheap processed pre-packaged food in this house! Buying overly processed "pretend" food only increases medical bills and decrease s quality of life down the road. Never compromising on value and quality, always shopping seasonal, sales, and closeout. We entertain family and friends frequently and always have left overs that we use for lunches or convert into another meal completely (i.e. a soggy spinach dip bread bowl can be converted into a delicious spinach and sausage stuffing).

All this to say living thrifty is awesome. It frees up money for that summer trip to the beach, or that new mountain bike accessory. Most importantly, it frees up money for the Kingdom of God. I really believe the desire and ability to live resourcefully comes from God himself. Less money on groceries and clothing means more money to provide for the needs of broken people.  When we give, God is faithful to provide for the needs of His joyful giver. My family and I are committed to living a thrifty lifestyle so that we can advance the love and truth of Jesus to the ends of the earth with the resources we have been given. The funny thing is  that it's a very abundant way to live. I never lack things that I need. Where your treasure it there your heart will be also. My heart is His and giving into His kingdom of love and light satisfies the desires of my heart.   We have a good thing going.

Jesus was a pretty thrifty guy - always finding a creative way to use the supply at hand. Peter's boat as a stage, a boys lunch to feed the masses from which he saved 12 baskets of left overs, common water for a wine miracle, the people, environment, and circumstances around him to tell relevant parables about the Kingdom of God. His own perfect life and blood for the spirits and souls of men. Thrifty man/God Jesus: My hero.