This year, our Easter celebration was quite modest. Instead of overflowing baskets, my kids received a chocolate bunny, some jelly beans, and a few stickers, along with eggs hidden around the yard. It might seem frugal to some, especially when I saw extravagant spreads on social media featuring soccer balls, entire candy factories, video games, and multiple stuffed animals. I even joked that the only thing missing was a pair of Hamilton tickets.
Despite the simplicity, my children were content—though one did ask about the missing Lego sets. They’ve long outgrown the belief in the Easter Bunny and understand that our holiday budget went towards an unforgettable spring break trip to the mountains. We’ve consciously moved away from accumulating material goods; it turns out, stuff just doesn’t bring the joy we seek. We’re all about experiences now.
Our Mountain Adventure
We departed the Saturday before Easter for six breathtaking days in North Carolina’s mountains, staying in our favorite cabin (which is more like a luxurious rustic resort, complete with a hot tub). We hiked to stunning waterfalls and discovered our beloved secret beach along the Chattooga River, where the boys caught brown trout and played in the sand. We even climbed a mountain! Instead of loading up on trinkets from downtown shops, we collected shimmering mica chips and displayed them in a bowl at home. Although the trees were bare, the mountain laurel remained vibrant, and my sons delighted in catching salamanders near a rushing waterfall. When it was time to leave, my middle child was heartbroken because he lost the biggest fish he had ever hooked.
These moments are unforgettable. I’ll cherish the sight of my sons’ catches, their brown spots glistening in the sunlight. I’ll remember the rivers swollen from recent rains and how my kids splashed around in the hot tub, surrounded by the beauty of the mountain laurel. This experience far outshines any large Easter spread, and I’m certain my boys would agree.
Investing in What Matters
That said, we still spend money, but on things that matter. Last year, we found children’s kayaks on clearance for just $50 each, paddle included. We redirected some of our Christmas funds to purchase two kayaks, since my husband, Jake, and I already had our own gear from our college days. The joy of watching my then-6-year-old navigate Cedar Creek in his own kayak was priceless, as he floated past cypress knees and under water oak branches. We even spotted a brown water snake lounging on a branch. My son and his little friend spent their time planning their future wedding while we adults chuckled at their innocent chatter. A stick bug fell into our canoe, sending my then-4-year-old into a 15-minute panic.
Our kayaking adventures are our chosen investment instead of toys or clothes. The sporting goods store has become our go-to spot for tow ropes, paddles, and sun-protective shirts. On Easter Saturday, we paddled down the Saluda River, with my 3-year-old nestled in my lap. We observed osprey and kingfishers, while Jake didn’t catch a thing. Yet, exploring a side creek, we encountered muskrats. My oldest, Finn, took delight in scaring turtles off their sunbathing logs. As we navigated through class 2 rapids, he turned to me and exclaimed, “Mom, can we do it again?”
Exploring History Together
We also visit historical battlefields, guided by Finn’s newfound obsession with the American Revolution. As part of our homeschooling, we explore local sites, listen to audiobooks about famous generals en route, and retrace the steps of soldiers who fought for freedom. Finn can now identify a redoubt after storming one that was reconstructed at Camden. He’s climbed over ships and followed the path of defensive palisades. Although gas prices can be daunting when traveling across the state, we manage our budget by cutting back on other expenses.
Locally, we persuade family members to gift us annual memberships to the zoo, state museum, and children’s museum instead of physical gifts during the holidays. We frequent the zoo every week, and in summer, we visit the botanical garden’s splash pad even more. Finn even met his “girlfriend” there during a homeschool event. Just recently, he had his brothers bury him in the sand up to his neck, which made for an excellent photo opportunity.
Choosing Memories Over Material Goods
Our family consciously avoids accumulating more stuff. We already have plenty weighing us down. I often feel overwhelmed by the clutter in our home and yearn to declutter rather than add to it. Sure, I might occasionally need a new kayaking shirt or a tow rope for our youngest, August, who is still gaining confidence in his kayak. Ultimately, we would much rather invest in creating memories and sharing experiences. Watching my sons glide down the river and catch brown trout are moments etched in my heart forever. I’ve learned that the heart can’t hold onto material things like Easter baskets.
Conclusion
In summary, prioritizing experiences over material goods has transformed our family’s happiness. By investing in adventures and memories, we’ve discovered deeper joy and fulfillment together.