2009: The Gift of a Healthier, Happier Lifestyle

by Rosey Dow

To the vast majority, the definition of recession is hardship and self-denial. No more impromptu stops for fast food on the way home from work, canceled vacations, and cutbacks on allowances. When we think about those things, it's easy to become depressed.

But let's take a closer look.

What happens when we can't afford to eat out? We eat in. Home cooked (better yet, home grown organic) food is more nutritious and doesn't contain a heavy load of additives. The family feels better because they are eating better than before. This is a good thing.

What happens when the kids have less spending money? They may have to spend time at home with their families. If they are at home, the family will interact more, and Moms and Dads will have more input into their children's lives. This is a very good thing.

With people staying at home more, there will be less gas consumption, less pollution, slower use of our resources, and more responsible treatment of the environment. Who would have ever thought that the simpler lifestyle is also GREEN. This is an awesome thing.

For this reason we're using a green penny to highlight posted tips that are all natural and that protect our resources.

We constantly talk about our craving for a slower pace and a more sane lifestyle. We'd love to stop rushing about.

Finally. Here's our chance.

Yes, we will need to make adjustments. The human spirit detests change, so we will probably become frustrated. Our kids may rage, and we may feel like joining them. But stop for just a few seconds and look at the bigger picture. Among the shadows are some brilliant beams.

Come along. Join us at http://PainlessPennyPinching.com for links to free movies, free software, reports of daily discounts at stores like Target and Office Depot, environmentally friendly tips that are also frugal and painless. Frugal and painless? You can't get much better than that!