This year, my children had a rather modest Easter celebration. Instead of overflowing baskets, they received a chocolate bunny, some jelly beans, stickers, and eggs hidden in the front yard. To some, this might seem frugal. Believe me, I felt that way when I saw elaborate spreads on social media featuring everything from soccer balls to video games. Yet, my kids were thrilled—even if one of them did wonder where the Lego sets were. They no longer believe in the Easter Bunny and are aware that our holiday budget went toward a family trip to the mountains. We’ve let go of material possessions. Stuff just doesn’t bring us joy anymore. We’re all about experiences.
We set off the Saturday before Easter for a six-day adventure in the scenic mountains of North Carolina, staying in our favorite cabin (which is more of a luxury rustic resort with a hot tub). We hiked to stunning waterfalls and discovered a hidden beach along the Chattooga River, where my boys caught brown trout and played in the sand. We even climbed a mountain! Instead of shopping, we collected shiny mica chips to display at home, and my sons had a blast catching salamanders near a roaring waterfall. When it was time to leave, my middle child was heartbroken because he lost the biggest fish.
I will cherish these memories forever—seeing my sons catch trout and exploring the rivers. Their laughter and excitement in the hot tub surrounded by mountain laurel are moments that surpass any lavish Easter haul. My boys would agree with me.
It’s not that we don’t spend money; we do, but it’s on meaningful experiences. Last year, we snagged discounted kayaks for our kids at the end of the season, and we redirected some Christmas funds to make it happen. My husband, Tom, and I already had our own kayaks and a canoe from our grad school days. Watching my then-6-year-old paddle down Cedar Creek in his kayak, while hearing his girlfriend plan their future wedding, was priceless. I capsized once, but the joy on his face as he navigated the waters made it all worthwhile.
We invest in kayaking gear instead of toys or fashionable clothes. Our trips to the sporting goods store now involve buying tow ropes and sun-protective shirts. On Easter Saturday, we floated down the Saluda River together. My youngest son sat in my lap as we paddled, spotting ospreys and kingfishers along the way. Even though Tom didn’t catch any fish, we discovered a side creek and saw muskrats while my oldest, Max, delighted in scaring turtles off logs. After conquering some rapids, Max turned to me with a grin and asked, “Can we do it again?”
We also explore historical battlegrounds. Max’s love for the American Revolution has led us to visit significant local sites, where we listen to audiobooks about famous generals while retracing the steps of brave soldiers. My 7-year-old has learned what a redoubt is because he’s seen one in person. We’ve had our share of adventures, and although gas prices are high, we manage expenses by cutting back on other purchases.
Locally, we encourage relatives to gift us annual memberships to the zoo and children’s museums rather than physical presents. We visit the zoo weekly, and in summer, we frequent the botanical garden’s splash pad, where Max met his “girlfriend” at a homeschool event.
We’re committed to minimizing material possessions. Our home already feels cluttered, and I often feel weighed down by all the stuff. I’d rather invest in experiences than accumulate more items. The sights of my sons gliding down rivers and catching fish are treasures I’ll hold in my heart. I’ve learned that true fulfillment comes from memories, not from Easter baskets.
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In summary, our family has shifted our focus from acquiring material goods to creating lasting memories through experiences. This change has not only brought us joy but has also deepened our connections with one another.