I planned to write another “simplify your holidays” post but I loved this news story from last week. A couple in New York City have found the ultimate way to simplify their lives. They live in an apartment that’s only 175 square feet. Sheez, my first apartment was at least 500 square feet. And that was pretty tiny.
What I really admire – and admit I could never do – is that they have pared their furnishings down to a bed, a bench, a TV, a bookshelf, and a cappachino maker. Oh, and two cats. They stash a lot of their clothes at strategically located dry cleaners on the way to their offices. They don’t cook, so they have no need for groceries, and kitchen stuff. They don’t even have a trash can, as they can walk out into the hall and throw stuff directly into the trash chute. The couple admits they are not homebodies; preferring to be out and about rather than hanging out at home.
The concept fascinates me, but I doubt I could live that pared down for very long. Get rid of my books? Family photos? My Elvis clock? And I do like to cook meals now and then. I lived out a duffle bag for 10 days on vacation in Mexico a few years ago and totally enjoyed not lugging a lot of stuff around. I periodically purge my possessions to get rid of stuff I keep out of habit, not because I love it.
Think it’s time to purge again. It will be a good way to start the new year.
