When do you stop?

How much stuff do you need? I am always thinking about what I need and don't need. There is a huge difference between 'need' and 'want'. I am always tiring to separate those in my mind. There are plenty of things I want and really very little that I need. Here's my list.

Need
-Jesus
-food
-water
-place to live
-clothes to cover my body
Let's just leave it that basic.

Want
-Jesus
-good food
-cold water
-nice place to live
-cool clothes
-car
-boots
-chocolate
-healthy family
-money
this list could go on and on and on but lets just leave it here.

I find the more I simplify my needs list the more I see the great blessings God has given me. Also it helps me to know where and when to draw the line when buying things. I say do I want this or do I need this. If I want it then can I afford it, will I use it, or do I know someone who could use it. I hate when stuff just goes to waste in my home. I do have those kinds of things around here but if I hear of someone who needs something or I think of something I have that could be better used elsewhere then I try to give it. This is a learning process for me. I use to keep everything, but really why keep crap around that you think you might use 10 years from now. Just get rid of it.

I'm thinking about this because I just went through the kids toys again and got rid of a bunch of stuff. They really don't need much. I want my kids to appreciate what they have and having less helps that. I want to appreciate what I have too. There are so many people in this world that could use food, water, and a place to live so why do I waste money on another toy for my kids or a new pair of socks when I can just keep wearing Ryan's :)

But really this is going to sound lame but I am trying to keep it REAL and simple so that I will be able to help others. That reminds me I need to check out the World Vision website. You can buy chickens and cows for families in other countries! SO COOL!