Non-Materialistic Things We’re Loving
K: July always brings about an abundance of sales and by the end of the month, I always find myself tired of everyone talking about things. Of course, there’s nothing wrong with taking advantage of a good deal when you’re in need of something (we even shared our newest home purchases on Monday), and I’ve been impressed by many bloggers who have taken time to encourage purchases of necessary items rather than frivolous spending, but when you’re hearing about new items regularly and everyone seems to be buying, buying, buying, it can all get a little tiring or even stale.
In the summers of my childhood, I remember the moments, memories, and non-materialistic things the most. Catching fireflies, roasting s’mores, swimming, game nights, and so many other activities filled my time and attention. In leu of the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale (or any other of the million sales happening), I thought it’d be nice to take a step back and share eight non-materialistic things that we’re loving right now as a couple. I hope that this inspires you to find some things to be grateful for, or just make an effort to appreciate something new this week.
1. A Shaded Back Patio & Evenings Outside
Our new backyard is shaded by a giant oak tree. While it still needs quite a bit of work in the landscaping department, we’re still enjoying evenings outside with a breeze and a drink in hand. Brandon and I have been grilling every weekend, trying to take advantage of the space. I’m excited to get it groomed and manicured a little bit more in the next coming months.
2. Curling Up With A Book On The Couch
I talked about our new couch in Monday’s post, but I am seriously loving the space that it offers. Both of us can comfortably lay down or curl up for a movie, Netflix binge, or an afternoon with a book. I’m currently reading Salt to the Sea (highly recommend). If you need any book recommendations outside of that, be sure to check out my last book review here.
3. New Summer Dinner Recipes
I’m always just a little bit more adventurous in the kitchen during the summer months. I’m convinced it’s because my schedule is so open, and I have time to spend in the kitchen. A few meals that we’ve absolutely loved lately would be these sweet potato black bean burgers, vegetarian spring rolls, and this pan seared tomato basil cod. Be sure to give us a follow on Pinterest if you aren’t already! I’m always saving new recipes to our food board.
4. Walks Around The Neighborhood
Our new neighborhood is so vastly different from San Antonio. Previously, we lived in a new construction area. Although the views were gorgeous (we lived on top of a hill), Brandon and I got a little tired of everything that comes with construction: constant cars, early morning workers, music blaring, and even trash in the streets. If you’ve lived in a developing neighborhood, then you know exactly what we’re talking about. What a contrast when we arrived in Midland: Now, we have an established neighborhood with lots of trees, and very minimal traffic + noise. I have to say, it’s been nice so far! That being said, it’s so much easier for us to get an evening or morning walk in with Tara. We’re taking advantage of that for sure!
5. No Traffic
Continuing from the last topic, the traffic is SO minimal here in Midland. We can get almost anywhere in the city in about 12 minutes or less. Brandon and I laugh because several people who have been here for years keep telling us that the traffic is bad; but coming from San Antonio, it feels pretty great to us. It’s fun to be able to jump in the car and not have to worry about rush hour, construction, or heavy traffic.
6. The Planning Process Of Travel
The dreaming and planning stage of travel is so much fun. We’re currently in the process of planning our annual Thanksgiving trip. Last year, we did a road trip of the south. This year, we’ll be going west, just to give you a hint. There’s nothing better than the feeling of possibility, adventure, and travel awaiting you. I love finding restaurants, routes, and things to do and often spend hours just googling and taking notes. Call me crazy, but the anticipation is sometimes just as fun as the actual trip itself!
7. Lazy Weekends
After our move, we had a few weekends of nothing and spent time working on the house, getting settled, and just relaxing. My mom came to help us during the unpacking time and left with the advice to start enjoying our home. She told us that we’ll always have more to do, as is always the case, but that we should ensure ourselves the time to sit back and just relax and enjoy. It’s been nice to have lazy time, especially before I start up another school year. We’re leaving town this weekend for a family event in Dallas and have several upcoming things on our calendar. Still, the easy weekend mornings and lazy afternoons have been savored.
8. New Places
Of course, exploring new places has to be one of the best non-materialistic things on the list. Even if you haven’t moved houses or cities like us, there’s always a new restaurant you can try or a new city you can explore. Brandon and I are having fun finding new Midland spots, restaurants, and shops to explore. It provides an excitement and allows us to get to know our new city too.
I hope that something here inspires you in your upcoming weekend or time off this summer!