Tuesday, August 05, 2008

Find Joy in Pinching Your Pleated Drapes Instead


Watching this fear-driven economy is similar to my feelings on rubbernecker delays; way too much misdirected energy. Yes, the reality of high gas prices is literally stalling out those who grip the wheel, while hopelessly facing an uphill battle at the gas pumps. Might I suggest a paradigm shift? Challenge translates to creativity, and adversity equals Plan B (sometimes C or D, depending on the complexity).

I sold my car two years ago prior to relocating to New York City, a city where your destination is only a train/bus/cab ride away. Fast forward to my current southern zip code, and I am still thriving in my carefree (and car-free) life, albeit the argument that "you can't make it here without a car." Conditioned comfort trumps common sense. Clearly, what you think about, you bring about.

I say switch gears. Park the car. Seek out your city's mass transit. Dine in versus out (and don't forget to dress the table). There is value in the valley, and style does not have to be sacrificed. I have launched a new website called Penny-wise, Poshly Frugal to use as your GPS (Generously Positive Source) for home decor inspiration. You may not be able to control the rising costs of food, gas and all that trickles from it, but you can control the serenity within your sanctuary. Simply put, choose to thrive instead of survive!

So brew a cup of your own coffee (yes, you can hug a mug at home!) while you visit the site. Make sure to register to become eligible for fabulous gifts, too.

Yield the temptation to get caught up in the doom; how you handle this economy's challenging times is up to you. I suggest you slow down enough to prepare a meal from your slow cooker -

And enjoy the alternate route.

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