The Plain Life misconceptions people have

- That we are financially unfit.

Nothing could be further from the truth. I always find it interesting that when your house is not full of "stuff" that people think you want or need it, then unannounced, they purchase it for you and give it to you. Without asking. This always puts me in an uncomfortable situation.

Do I accept it out of guilt?

Do I say "Thanks but I don't use that product"

Or, my favorite:

Do I say "No thank you. I think consumerism and commercialism in America is out of control and I cannot support it."

More of often than not, I do not say the last option. Honestly, usually I accept it out of guilt. Someone had a thought nice enough to see they felt we needed something and went out and spent their hard earned money on it. I just can't see trying to explain something that is so foreign to them, that they won't understand anyway.


- That we have no style
The right hair, the right clothes, the right "look" has become the norm in America. So, when people see our clothes, our lack of style, my lack of make up or lack of hair spray, they assume we just don't know what the latest fashion is and just feel plain sorry for us. Again, as kind people usually do, they give me valuable tips of what I would look good in, what colors of make up would fit my skin tone and how my hair would look. I figure if they are comfortable to bring these topics up then I should feel comfortable telling them about our life. I tell them I don't believe in vanity, so I prefer the way I look. I love their reaction "You mean to tell me you want to look like that??". I don't hold it against them, they just are so used to the American culture it is all they know.

- That we don't clean our house
My house is not dirty, I just don't own a bunch of commercial cleaning products. I feel they are bad for the environment and toxic. Look around my house, you will see sprinkle ajax, vinegar and baking soda. Ok, I have to admit, I really like the scent of Mr. Clean floor cleaner, so you will see that also. Homemade cleaning products cuts way down on empty containers which is bad for the environment, they are more natural for cleaning, and it's cheaper to make your own. A win-win if you ask me.

-That we have no food
This one always amuses me to no extent. When someone goes to give the kids a snack they are looking for store bought food. When I tell them we usually only eat homemade cookies, snacks and canned fruit they look at me like I grew another head. This one they never get used to. Especially popcorn made from kernels. Love that reaction.

I take the time to explain to people who either prod for answers, or seem interested.

- our house is not filled with *stuff* because we don't purchase products we don't use


-we have a Plain style. We never spend more than 5 minutes trying to figure out what we are going to wear. Our shirts are different colors, but we always wear blue jeans. The more time we spend on trying to decide what to wear the less time we can devote to things we need to do, want to do, and of course pray.

- I like non toxic homemade cleaner's much better than toxic cleaners. Plus, I never have to figure out how I am going to dispose of the container.

- Please, I have enough food for almost a year. If your hungry, open a quart jar!