how to be happy

It goes without saying that most people want to be happy. I won't be the first to point out that our consumer-driven society is designed to give people the illusion of happiness...but the problem is, once the novelty of that new gadget, book, shoe, etc., wears off, we're often left with that same empty feeling that we started out with. We're often left wondering...."what's the point?"

Well, that's a deep question, and I don't think one blog entry could answer it. But, I do know for sure that buying "things" won't provide any sense of purpose...they will only serve to quiet our minds and numb us until that all too irritating question pops up again, and then we buy something else...and the cycle continues.

So what do I think does matter? Well, of course...relationships. With family...with friends...with God...

and ideas. Inspiration. Edith Wharton (a great author whose work you should check out if you get a chance) once said, "the air of ideas is the only air worth breathing."

These are the things that drive me, and the things I want to pass along to others. I hope this blog will be a way for others to find inspiration and ideas for living outside of the materialistic society we live in in America, and find true purpose and happiness. I titled this blog "rePURPOSE" because I want to find new ways to use old things, and in the process, simplify my life, enjoy more time with family and friends, and discover meaning.

Don't worry....I'm not advocating wearing clothes that you weave yourself on your own loom (although if you like that sort of thing, great)! I'm simply hoping to break out of that vicious cycle of consumerism and have some fun at the same time!

RePurpose those old mason jars by creating some mood lighting...

...don’t worry, you don’t have to hang these from a ladder (although if you’ve got an outdoor arbor or pergola, adding some water and floating votives would make for great evening lighting). You can fill these jars with your own homemade candles or again with water and votives and tie a couple of colorful ribbons around the base. Arrange different sized jars on your coffee table or dining room table for a unique centerpiece that’s sure to liven up any room!

Props go to Sarah and Paul (our wonderful wedding photography clients) for the above gorgeous mason jar display.

Check in tomorrow...I'll show you a great idea for re-purposing a common household item ;-)