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Across the Fence:  simple life vs...not?  |
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farmmilkmama
True Blue Farmgirl
2027 Posts
Amy
Central MN
USA
2027 Posts |
 Posted - Dec 09 2012 : 3:24:37 PM
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I know this has been discussed here a long time ago but I'm just wondering if any of you feel the total mess of trying to live the simple life but being so immersed in the technological society we live in? I guess its been weighing heavy on my mind because the last few months I've been tied to a computer and kindle and other stuff in an attempt to finish my book. But I moved to a farm. And we live SUPER simply half the time, and the other half of the time, I'm tied to the computer and dealing with social media and everything else. It bugs me. It's like, the necessary evil. Does anyone else feel that way? Do you ever feel like you're cheating on the simple life when you're immersed in technology? How do you make peace with it? Is the definition of "the simple life" changing?
--* FarmMilkMama *--
Farmgirl Sister #1086
Be yourself.
Everyone else is already taken.
-Oscar Wilde
www.farmfoodmama.blogspot.com
www.thehmmmschoolingmom.blogspot.com
www.amydingmann.com |
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Betty J.
True Blue Farmgirl
1409 Posts
Betty
Pasco
WA
USA
1409 Posts |
Posted - Dec 09 2012 : 3:33:26 PM
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If you don't like being tied to the computer, give it up. However, I think it is a necessary evil. Like cell phones. My kids, both grown adults, have fancy phones and I feel like I'm missing out on something because I don't know how to use them. Not that I get that many calls, just the fact of knowing. Hang in there, you will sort it all out.
Betty in Pasco |
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farmmilkmama
True Blue Farmgirl
2027 Posts
Amy
Central MN
USA
2027 Posts |
Posted - Dec 09 2012 : 3:50:12 PM
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If I give up the computer, I give up writing. No one accepts manuscripts any other way, and authors are in charge of doing their own promoting and marketing now. So I guess its part of the package. I surely didn't mean to sound ungrateful. I love that I can write for a living, there's just such a GIANT difference between what I'm doing when I'm writing (at least the business part of it) and what I'm doing when I'm being the farmgirl. I know I will sort things out in my head, I was just wondering if anyone else had ever felt that way. :)
--* FarmMilkMama *--
Farmgirl Sister #1086
Be yourself.
Everyone else is already taken.
-Oscar Wilde
www.farmfoodmama.blogspot.com
www.thehmmmschoolingmom.blogspot.com
www.amydingmann.com |
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nabrown42
True Blue Farmgirl
409 Posts
Nancy
Caneyville
KY
USA
409 Posts |
Posted - Dec 09 2012 : 4:00:23 PM
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I think that living the "simple life" is whatever you make it...there are no "simple life" police out there who will fine you if you don't chuck all the modern conveniences. It's your life, lighten up and be kinder to yourself. You have made some major changes in your life, living a more rural lifestyle. Be content with where you are in your journey every step along the way.
"I've wept in the night for the shortness of sight that to someone's needs I've been blind; but I've yet to feel a twinge of regret for being a little too kind." |
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Fiddlehead Farm
True Blue Farmgirl
4562 Posts
Diane
Waupaca
WI
USA
4562 Posts |
Posted - Dec 09 2012 : 4:41:28 PM
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There is a happy medium. If it wasn't for technology we wouldn't be able to share our simple lives with others. Just like this forum. Keep on writing!
http://studiodiphotosite.shutterfly.com/
farmgirl sister #922
I am trying to be the person my dogs think I am.
I get up every morning determined to both change the world and have one hell of a good time. Sometimes this makes planning my day difficult.
- E. B. White |
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prariehawk
True Blue Farmgirl
2914 Posts
Cindy
2914 Posts |
Posted - Dec 09 2012 : 4:49:53 PM
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What comes to my mind is Barbara Kingsolver. She lives the "simple life" and has gone to Washington DC to speak with dirt still under her fingernails. Even people who live in African villages have cell phones. Most people in developing countries would much rather have internet access than indoor plumbing. I need a computer to submit my stories and poems but I don't write for a living. I'm not sure I could. Just as long as you're not typing on your computer, talking on your cell phone and listening to your MP3 player all at the same time, you're probably living the simple life.
Cindy
"Vast floods can't quench love, no matter what love did/ Rivers can't drown love, no matter where love's hid"--Sinead O'Connor
"In many ways, you don't just live in the country, it lives inside you"--Ellen Eilers
Visit my blog at http://www.farmerinthebelle.blogspot.com/ |
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nubidane
True Blue Farmgirl
3019 Posts
Lisa
Georgetown
OH
3019 Posts |
Posted - Dec 09 2012 : 6:32:52 PM
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Amy
Feel blessed that you can be part of both worlds, & don't give up your writing. Your blog is such a light. & heck, y'all can process a pig! How many of us can say that??
Merry Christmas! |
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Bear5
True Blue Farmgirl
13055 Posts
Louisiana/Texas
USA
13055 Posts |
Posted - Dec 09 2012 : 8:41:57 PM
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Nancy, I think you said it best; "lighten it up and be kinder to yourself". I agree. That's what I've been working on with the changes in my life. I do the simple when I can.
Marly
"It's only when we truly know and understand that we have a limited time on earth- and that we have no way of knowing when our time is up- that we will begin to live each day to the fullest, as if it was the only one we had." Elisabeth Kurler-Ross |
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kysheeplady
True Blue Farmgirl
1291 Posts
Teri
KY
USA
1291 Posts |
Posted - Dec 10 2012 : 05:17:18 AM
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None of us are truly living the "simple life". There is NOTHING simple about homeschooling your kids, trying to eek out a living in this world, put food that is healthy on your table, and pay bills, keep an all computerized vehicle running, and take care of livestock and maintain a farm.
So I hate to tell you that there is no longer a true simple life. Times have changed, even the Amish use roller blades and cell phones! And they are about as close as it get to the "simple life".
It is just what you do with ALL the technology, if you let it clutter your life it will. the choice is yours to make.
Teri
"There are black sheep in every flock"
White Sheep Farm
www.whitesheepfarm.com |
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Katlady93
True Blue Farmgirl
361 Posts
Charlotte
Denmark
SC
USA
361 Posts |
Posted - Dec 10 2012 : 11:00:54 AM
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well said, Teri. Technology is a tool, not a life. use it the way it works best for you. it is easy to get caught in the trap of playing on the computer, i have to remind myself that i am checking on things, like this forum, my folks, and getting info for DH. and if i keep it to those few things, i will have time to do the other stuff that has to be done to keep body and soul together.
Some dreams are worth the risk it takes to make them real.
Don't tell me the sky's the limit when there are footsteps on the moon. |
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Betty J.
True Blue Farmgirl
1409 Posts
Betty
Pasco
WA
USA
1409 Posts |
Posted - Dec 10 2012 : 11:08:41 AM
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Amy, I didn't take your statement as being ungrateful. I was listening to CBS SUNDAY MORNING and there were some authors on there that did their writing with pencil/pen and paper. However, the subject was self publishing. I would imagine that would have to be done on the computer. Richard Paul Evans' first novel was The Christmas Box and he said he published 20-some copies himself because a publishing company wouldn't accept. I found it to be a wonderful read. I've only found one of his books impossible to get into.
Anyhow, I didn't want to offend you by my statement. I enjoy the computer and spend probably too much time on it. It's my library. Any time I have a question, I go to the computer for an answer.
Betty in Pasco |
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farmmilkmama
True Blue Farmgirl
2027 Posts
Amy
Central MN
USA
2027 Posts |
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sjmjgirl
True Blue Farmgirl
566 Posts
Stephanie
Mt. Vernon
Iowa
USA
566 Posts |
Posted - Dec 10 2012 : 12:46:11 PM
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I agree wtih everyone else in that the definition of living the simple life varies from person to person. I consider myself living a simple life, yet I have internet, TV, a cell phone. I also can, garden,make my own laundry soap, bake, etc. My definition of the simple life is a life spent focusing on what is important to me, with as little stress and complications as possible. As long as you are happy and have balance in your life, I would not spend one more second worrying about if you have simplified enough. Its not a contest. Life is too short! :)
Farmgirl Sister # 3810
Learn the rules so you know how to break them properly.
- Dalai Lama
April is Autism Awareness month. Autism affects 1 in 88 children (1 in 54 boys, including my son). Go to http://www.autismspeaks.org/ to learn more and help Light It Up Blue on April 2nd!
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crittergranny
True Blue Farmgirl
1096 Posts
Laura
Lindrith
NM
USA
1096 Posts |
Posted - Dec 10 2012 : 2:25:00 PM
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I feel that technology makes things more simple in a lot of ways. It saves time for instance: instead of beating the pavement putting up flyers to sell a horse I can just post it on the internet and that is just a for instance. I don't have to file as much paper for business...etc. I can talk to a loved one without taking time to sit down and write a letter and then take the time to drive to the post office. I mean just because something isn't antique or done the old way doesn't mean it isn't conducive to simple living.
Laura
Horse poor in the boonies.
www.nmbarrelhorses.com |
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jenne.f
True Blue Farmgirl
643 Posts
Jenne
Wagontown
PA
USA
643 Posts |
Posted - Dec 10 2012 : 5:29:46 PM
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I think we have to choose the technology that serves our needs best.
And leave the rest.
I also like to keep my home looking as homey as possible. Use vintage
decor and keep the tv, computers, etc as invisible as possible.
~blessings~
Jenne
Farmgirl #4616 |
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rough start farmgirl
True Blue Farmgirl
3331 Posts
marianne
The Beautiful Pacific NW
Washington State
USA
3331 Posts |
Posted - Dec 12 2012 : 05:20:39 AM
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Sometimes you have to just accept things and not overthink it. Maybe that is oversimplifying, but why borrow troubles? Technology is crucial to your livlihood.
Marianne |
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sonshine4u
Chapter Guru
1205 Posts
April
New Prague
MN
USA
1205 Posts |
Posted - Dec 13 2012 : 12:41:10 PM
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I think the tricky thing is to find the balance and not let either thing own you. Too much technology and you become a slave to it, too much simplicity and ... well you become a slave to that too. It's making simple choices everyday. How long do I sit at the computer, how many times do i check my email or facebook or app game or... How obsessed do I get with doing everything from scratch... how many rows of tomatoes do I plant... We can overdo it with anything and I guess it's not an either or, but a moderation in all things mentality.
Playing in the Sonshine
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farmmilkmama
True Blue Farmgirl
2027 Posts
Amy
Central MN
USA
2027 Posts |
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FieldsofThyme
Farmgirl Guide & Schoolmarm / Chapter Leader
4928 Posts
USA
4928 Posts |
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papersmiles
Farmgirl in Training
12 Posts
Barbara
Bluffton
IN
USA
12 Posts |
Posted - Apr 16 2013 : 5:59:04 PM
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There are days when cell phones, computers, laptops and even my "watch" seem like gifts from the devil....chuckling. But like all the good things in life (home made banana cream pie, Starbucks lattes and simply toooooooo cute shoes), moderation is the key. Since I do not use my computer for my livelihood, I limit my time to twice a day max and only 30 minutes each time. I haven't been able to kick the computer habit completely but at least I'm no longer burning my eyeballs out staring at the screen hour after hour. I opted to go back to a prepaid cell phone which really cuts down on the texting thing and rarely do I even wear a watch anymore. Having drastically pared down my "tech" usage, I have found so much more time to do my hands-on art/craft projects, read a book or simply sit in my porch listen to the birds scolding me....smiling.
I see families in restaurants, theaters and other outings being together but being apart. Each has their hands wrapped around a smartphone, tapping away with their thumbs conversing with some distant social connection. Yet, they fail to take the time to talk with the person right next to them.
Occasionally I wish life were simplier but then I realize how much I would miss my fancy sewing machine, the microwave, riding lawn mower and even my updated pressure canner. I guess in the end it's up to me how much or how little I allow technology to influence my life.
Barbara
Aprons make the outfit!!!!! |
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Ladybek9756
True Blue Farmgirl
882 Posts
Rebecca
Linneus
Maine
USA
882 Posts |
Posted - Apr 16 2013 : 6:53:06 PM
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I once complained that I was two people. One who loved all things country and the other who loved the lace side of life, like the theatres, museums, plays, and the orchestra. I just felt that I was both and it was hard for me in my mind to mix the two. On one hand you have your homemake items like dollies, and such in your home along with the gingham tablecloth and eyelet curtains and on the other you had the lace sheers with the velvet drapes and fine furniture. So which one are you really. His suggestion was for me to make my own world where I used both and it was my world. Simple life vs technology is nothing more than combining the two to make the life you find that fits who you are. You need technology to write and you need the simpler life to feed your soul. Embrace both and make them you.
May the stars carry your sadness away. May the flowers fill your heart with beauty, and may hope forever wipe away your tears. Becky #4932 |
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brightmeadow
True Blue Farmgirl
2047 Posts
Brenda
Lucas
Ohio
USA
2047 Posts |
Posted - Apr 16 2013 : 6:59:25 PM
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Even Gene Logsdon, who I've been reading for more than 30 years, has a blog. http://thecontraryfarmer.wordpress.com/category/gene-logsdon-blog/
He writes about rural living in an almost spiritual way, which makes sense because in his youth he studied for the priesthood before deciding to farm and write.
He lives near my hometown, but I recently realized his phone is not listed. Draw your own boundaries to use technology where it helps you and makes your life better.
If you find yourself focusing on the technology, instead of the use you make of it to accomplish a task, maybe you can find someone to take over the "computer support"?
Don't let social media run your life. You don't have to "like" every comment by all your friends. Put close friends and distant acquaintances in different groups.
But I am really giving this same advice to myself.... I also have difficulty balancing from time to time!
You shall eat the fruit of the labor of your hands - You shall be happy and it shall be well with you. -Psalm 128.2
Visit my blogs at http://brightmeadowfarms.blogspot.com (farming) http://brightmeadowknits.blogspot.com (knitting) or my homepage at http://home.earthlink.net/~brightmeadow |
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Rosemary
True Blue Farmgirl
1825 Posts
Virginia
USA
1825 Posts |
Posted - Apr 16 2013 : 8:10:46 PM
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| Once upon a time, fountain pens were high tech and there were people clinging to their quills and dipping pens in protest over this devastating incursion into the processes they had developed to help them write their best -- the pause to dip, to lay down a spent feather and pick up a fresh one, and so on. We're part of the same drift of natural change. Just know your core self and steer by that. You won't get lost. |
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prayin granny
True Blue Farmgirl
1874 Posts
Linda
Kansas
1874 Posts |
Posted - Apr 24 2013 : 1:47:25 PM
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I really thing 'simplicity ' means different things to each person? I was living rural and trying to make the best of it? Then 'life' happened!
A kind of life changing injury, then various structural problems etc with my home. In short had to let it go and now I live in a suburban city apt!!
Huge change and by many peoples accounts......maybe not considered simple at all?? But as I have adjusted, honestly? The security of having on staff apt maintenance, gardners, etc etc? That alone gives me simplicity. Have a balcony just enough size for some container gardening and a pretty garden like view to sip my coffee or iced tea!!
I'm doing more 'farmgirl' related projects than I was ever able to do before. I'm back enjoying knitting. Getting back to basics of making things more from scratch , including laundry detergent etc.
I feel safer here than I did in my rural home. That alone has helped me to find simplicity I think. For each of us? I think that farmgirl heart and desire for simple is different for each one of us. Yet no less special, nor right or wrong, in each farmgirl heart. It's our farmgirl spirits that count!!! :)
Everyone enjoy the day !!
Blessings,
Linda
http://www.grannysbirds.blogspot.com/
Country at Heart |
Edited by - prayin granny on Apr 24 2013 1:50:55 PM |
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levisgrammy
True Blue Farmgirl
9782 Posts
Denise
Beavercreek
Ohio
USA
9782 Posts |
Posted - Apr 24 2013 : 2:57:36 PM
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Very interesting topic here! I think everyone has made some very good points. There are times when I become overwhelmed by technology and that is when I start to take time off. I won't even look at my computer till evening if at all on those days. I decided the it is a tool for me to use not to rule my life. If I let it then I really am not enjoying the life I have and that is a shame for I am only given one go round.
farm girl sister#43
http://www.ladybugsandlilacs.blogspot.com/
O, a trouble's a ton or a trouble's an ounce,
Or a trouble is what you make it!
And it isn't the fact that you're hurt that counts,
But only--how did you take it?
--Edmund C. Vance.
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AnnieinIdaho
True Blue Farmgirl
437 Posts
Annie
ID
USA
437 Posts |
Posted - Apr 25 2013 : 09:48:08 AM
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Hi Amy,
Well that is a great question to ponder. I often believe we come across these ponderings because our mind and soul are working together to bring us to become conscious of how we are living, and to consciously discern what it is we are doing. Balance is the key, and I have found that when I feel a bit out of kilter, just to look what is really working and what is not. It may take a few months, but do not let the process become troublesome. In everything that comes my way I "take what is good". If going on the computer is advancing your goals then incorporate it. Ask yourself if the time or task you are spending at each sitting is necessary to fulfill something that is important to "who you are and what it is you want to accomplish". If so, integrate it, if not, take a break from it. I have found I just need to "keep in rhythm" with what makes me feel grounded and offers me experiences of being alive and well, connected to those who are important to me. I do not look at "things" as good or bad, but their usefulness at the time. Over the years some "things" become obsolete in my life, and others move to being more useful. For example, I used to whisk when cooking and loved not using electricity. Now at my age, that motion causes neck and shoulder pain, so I use the hand held electric mixer. It is about making life rewarding and satisfying, trying to be as responsible as possible in your choices, but to keep the joy in your activity. Mindless activity will leave you feeling empty so you will know to let it go, while other endeavors will fuel your entire being. You get it! Just enjoy all your possibilities and look at them as choices that may be appropriate on some days, and on other days not so much. I think it could be called, "Going with the flow" :-)
Annie
"The turnings of life seldom show a sign-post; or rather, though the sign is always there, it is usually placed some distance back, like the notices that give warning of a bad hill or a level railway-crossing." Edith Wharton, 1913 from 'The Custom of the Country'. |
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Across the Fence: simple life vs...not? |
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simple life vs...not?
