Simple Gifts

'Tis a gift to be simple,
'Tis a gift to be free,
'Tis a gift to come down where we ought to be,
And when we find ourselves in the place just right,
It will be in the valley of love and delight.

Our family is really trying to simplify our stuff this year and part of that is not adding more.  Initially that made us think that we should not add anything.  Just experiences...  Aunt C pointed out a simple idea that she had seen on Pinterest.

• something they WANT
• something they NEED
• something to WEAR
• something to READ

And possibly:

• something to WATCH
• something for DRESS UP
• something to LISTEN TO
• something to EAT
• something to CREATE 

So, since half the family still wasn't sure about the no gift idea, we decided to try it.  We assigned (they chose) a single category for each relative and they will find a single gift for each of our three kids in that category.

No Shampoo - 1st attempt

Earlier this week I got 16 inches of my hair cut off.  Today, I decided it would be a good day to try the "no poo" method of washing.  I used her original measurements (1 tablespoon baking soda/1 cup water, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar/1 cup water), and I have enough left for another washing.  The result:  it appears as though I washed my hair today.  Very good!

Now, I just need to know what to use for the rest of my body.  Seemed weird to be using such simplicity in my hair and then using the shampoo/body wash on the rest of me.  Haha.  One step at a time!

Don't worry, by my sister's suggestion, I will save enough shampoo for you all to use when you come and visit.

• If you are also interested, here is one link to dry shampoo information. 
• DIY homemade body wash. 
• Tips and Tricks