Small town-ism

The wheels are set in motion, literally and figuratively, and in a few short weeks I will be living small. In 200 sq ft to be exact. Lately I have reflected on what motivates me to live in such a small home, in large part to ascertain whether or not I am a) crazy or b) a genius (it turns out, both). But also, I wanted to understand how I grew into my current perspectives on space and stuff. Like all good thinking, it came together on a recent walk through the woods, when I realized that many of my choices to simplify life came from living in a small town. There is no Walmart, no Canadian Tire, no Starbucks, no Victoria Secret, and (happily for my wallet) no Whole Foods. Not having the opportunity to buy things has made me realize that I don't actually need them. I can eat simply and still be healthy, wear plain underwear and still feel sexy, and generally consume less of the things I never needed in the first place. The irony about this statement is that I have read it many times before, written by others, but until it is experienced, either by choice or force, it's only words and theories. (Irony police, if you still read this, I'm certain this is incorrect usage).

Less space: I remember thinking when I downsized from a 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom house with ensuite bathroom and heated tile floors to a one room cabin with loft, how am I going to live without that bathroom?! But now, 11 months later, I have not thought of it once. Though at this exact moment I confess that it would be nice to have. A mistake I won't make during this next move - trying to fit all my furniture and things into a smaller space. Downsizing space requires a similar downsize of stuff and things.

Less stuff: I recall one fall when there was a pumpkin shortage in town. I felt a special wonder and awe that such a scenario was transpiring. 'You mean to suggest that there are no pumpkins for sale in town, anywhere?' With only 2 grocery stores, it doesn't take long to sort out the answer to the question. I also vaguely recall a similar banana shortage, though in hindsight there probably were bananas at the other grocery store. What this moment highlighted for me is that we are accustomed to having whatever we want, whenever we want it. Organic strawberries in December anyone? I get a similar tingling feeling of wonder and awe when the highways close and there is no way in or out of town. A pleasant note reminding us all that we're just humans, and that most things can wait until tomorrow (unless you're trying to catch a flight from Calgary).

Other factors that have influenced me over these last few months are two blogs I highly recommend; Raptitude and Mr. Money Moustache. Both Canadians (though one now lives in the US), they are always insightful and good reads.