Purposeful Adventures

In June, San Francisco State University published a study that discussed how people that spend their money on experiences are happier than those that spend their money on material items.  Sadly, the study also showed that many choose the material items.

The results can be read here:  http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2014-04/sfsu-cte032814.php

I thought about this months ago, as I began decluttering and downsizing our things.  I came across a quote that said, "Fill your life with experiences, not things.  At the end of your life you'll have stories to tell, not stuff to show."

A couple years ago my grandma passed away. I have a few of her things, but the pictures of her life and the book she wrote about growing up... Those are my treasures.  I thought about my life, and my children or future grandchildren going through my things. I would rather them find my journals and see pictures of my life than go through endless clothes or things.  

I decided to begin living more adventurously about the same time I found out about a couple of my health challenges.  Luckily, the adventures have mixed well with the plans to exercise more and get outside often.

We began with a local festival.  Then my husband took me hiking for our anniversary.  I began walking nearly every day, soaking up the beauty of autumn.  I've gone a couple places with our children, basically trying to gift them with some adventure. I have discovered the study is correct, and "doing stuff" is more fulfilling than "having stuff."  

My walks have turned into such a peaceful time for me. I often pray or just think.  I love being outside in the crisp mornings, the fall leaves crunching under my feet as I walk, the colors overwhelming me with their beauty. 

I long to do more, but due to finances and work schedules, it can be tough to arrange things.  My long-term goal would be to RV, to travel and see sights we haven't seen.  For now, I wait and take advantage of local (or somewhat local) attractions. 

Life is a gift.  For many years I have lived focused on home.  With a couple exceptions, we didn't travel very far.  That life, while necessary for several reasons at the time, showed me that what I thought I always wanted wasn't for me. Only Jesus can fulfill in me that hole that I tried to fill with other things for years.  When all my dreams had been stripped away and so much had been lost, this dream popped into my heart.