I’m always looking for ideas for stories, and thankfully, so much goes on in Tanglewood, I’m provided with plenty of material.
Betty, our fearless leader of the ”Red-Hot Babe’s” gave me new material with her great quote “I’m not Lazy. I’m a Minimalist!” I thought wow, that Betty is a living, breathing, genius, especially since I’ve been accused of being lazy a time or two in my life. But I’m like Betty. I’m not Lazy, I’m a Minimalist! Think of all the time and energy we’d all save if we adopted Betty’s motto. She’s one smart Red-Hot Babe!
When we bought our winter home in Tanglewood, we felt like we were on a permanent vacation. So, in my book, vacation rules applied. Do I clean on vacation? Never! Do I cook on vacation? Seldom! Daryl and I both felt having worked hard all our lives that in retirement, every day would be Saturday and retirement would be full-time playtime.
When I decorated, I decided knickknacks required dusting, so no knickknacks for me! With my goal of eliminating as much housework as possible, I covered every tabletop, nightstand, and credenza with glass. Why? It’s easier to walk around with a bottle of Windex and paper towels spraying and wiping to my heart’s content. Instead of curtains, we installed tinted windows and thankfully, although late in life, I acquired two important necessities. A robotic vacuum cleaner and a husband who helps clean!
As for cooking, crock pots and dump cakes were designed for people who enjoy eating but are minimalists. We hate cleaning kitchens and one pot meals are delicious! Proof that I’m not lazy is the fact that I still cook. This month was a bit challenge however, because the appliance awarded “most valuable player” ten years running broke. It was tough but we managed without a microwave for two incredibly long weeks. Crockpots of spaghetti sauce and chili managed to keep Daryl a happy and well-fed man!
It’s a bit harder to be a minimalist in the yard but I did manage. I bought two beautiful ceramic pots and filled them with gorgeous multicolored, UV protected plastic flowers. They never have to be watered or fertilized, will never die, and the geckos and bugs can’t eat them. So, working smart, multi-tasking, and cutting corners are all talents utilized by those who are proud to brag, “I’m not Lazy, I’m a Minimalist” with more pool time and a great tan.
