It’s a common jest among my partner’s colleagues that we resemble a “modern Amish family.” This playful label has less to do with our attire—certainly, I’m not suited to wear a bonnet, nor do I know of any Amish individuals sporting graphic tees—and more to do with the assumption that our uncomplicated lifestyle equates to a “sheltered” one.
I do not perceive my family as sheltered. We possess a vehicle (actually, two), utilize smartphones, and depend significantly on electricity (my coffee maker is essential). In fact, we even navigate the digital realm to stay connected with family and friends through social media platforms. We are not socially withdrawn, nor do we confine our children to shield them from the broader world.
However, certain choices we make—like enjoying family movie nights at home or viewing a visit to the playground as a social event—may be interpreted as reclusive in our fast-paced society.
Dining out is a rarity for us. We travel infrequently, and we do not subscribe to cable or Wi-Fi. As for the latest tech gadgets? They are not on our radar. Our most significant annual expenditure revolves around our grocery bills, as food is a fundamental necessity. We embrace a simple and, some might say, frugal lifestyle—not out of necessity, but by choice.
I don’t believe that children must be inundated with a plethora of experiences or possess all the latest gadgets to derive meaning from life. Nor do I consider myself an irresponsible parent for prioritizing our home as the primary venue for recreation and enjoyment.
In my observation, when life is a constant whirlwind, there’s little opportunity to pause, reflect, and absorb the experiences that shape lasting memories. The saying “Less is more” resonates for a reason.
Reflecting on my own childhood, I cherish the simple moments. I do not recall the specifics of our yearly trips to amusement parks or the extravagant gifts I received during holidays, but I vividly remember the joy of digging for worms with neighbors and curling up with my mother as she read me stories.
Just like diamonds emerging from the rough, my most cherished memories originate from the seemingly mundane, yet they shine with clarity and value. Those are the types of memories I aspire to create for my children.
Memories such as:
- Stealing fruit snacks from the pantry and sharing them with siblings while constructing elaborate blanket forts.
- Transforming stuffed animals into a pirate ship, “walking the plank” onto a sea of pillows, with Captain Hook playfully poking at you with a makeshift weapon.
- Mixing “witch potions” in the backyard, stirring water, mud, leaves, and bugs while muttering made-up spells, only to see my mother’s face when asked to sample the concoction.
- Drawing imaginative figures in the gravel driveway using broken tree branches.
- Organizing backyard picnics, sharing spooky tales around a campfire, and engaging in playful battles with neighborhood friends.
I want my children to remember the essence of childhood—not a blur of luxurious vacations, upscale restaurants, or extravagant gifts. I desire them to recognize the extraordinary in the ordinary and appreciate the beauty found in simplicity.
Because once adulthood arrives, life inevitably becomes complex.
In my view, our family’s lifestyle is not about sheltering children from reality; rather, it’s about revealing its richness. For further insights on home insemination and related topics, you can explore this blog post. Additionally, learn more about artificial insemination kits that are designed to assist those looking to conceive at home, and check out this resource for valuable information on pregnancy and fertility.
Summary
The article examines the distinction between a sheltered life and a simple one, highlighting the value of creating meaningful memories through everyday experiences rather than pursuing material wealth and constant busyness. It emphasizes the importance of cherishing simplicity and the richness it brings to childhood.