The best purchases I've EVER made as a minimalist

[@SimpleHappyZen]

What's something that you would immediately buy again if it got lost or broken? 👇🤗

[@Robert-qm1ld]

My coffeemaker, then my phone. 😃

[@SimpleHappyZen]

@Robert Haha yes, priorities!

[@doubles1545]

A pickup truck. I’m building a homestead, and having something that can haul is very important. It’s especially good if I forget something and need to make a last-minute supply run. I can just hop in the pickup and go get it, instead of fussing with finding a pickup to borrow or a friend who can give me a ride.

[@DaestrumManitz]

My eye glasses (can’t see without them), then of course, a cell phone! Then a wife. Although she has proven to be quite repairable. 😩😍

[@ateana_lenn]

just a heads up: the link to the playstation is broken/gives me a "sorry we couldn't find this page" destination on amazon :)

[@autumnjoycemarie]

Vera, you crack me up! “That’s what she said” & you left it in. 😂

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Hahaha just had to say it 😂😂

[@chih9397]

Such a size queen 🤣😉

[@cassieAre]

Same. 😂

[@sarahlynn6802]

I know this is extremely privileged to say, but we recently hired a professional cleaning service, and it’s changed my life. The amount of hours I get back on weekends to actually recharge is HUGE. With two working-from-home adults and three animals, it’s been a game changer.

[@goodenoughgirl8102]

Ha ha for me....”GOALS.” Sounds amaze balls to me and you bet I’m so green with envy. 😅😅

[@sluggo206]

My friend who cleans people's houses will be happy to hear this. :)

[@canonrebel626]

That’s awesome! This has always been a goal of mine with six people living in our household, owning a business and a rabbit, this would indeed be life changing! ❤❤❤

[@americanbeautyl]

What a lovely gift to give yourself ❤

[@MyFocusVaries]

We bought a Dyson cordless vacuum and I can't believe how much easier vacuuming is. No hoses or chords to drag around. It is so much less fuss!! I'd definitely but it again.

[@kathrynnielson5689]

This is my best purchase as well. I can't believe how much more efficient and time-saving it is not having to mess with the cord. When this one dies-because I have cats and use it every day-we'll get another one. Best. Purchase. Ever.

[@MyFocusVaries]

@@kathrynnielson5689I am a believer! Other brands might be just as good. It's the upright, cordless that's so great. Though I am amazed at how well the Dyson works.

[@kathrynnielson5689]

@@MyFocusVaries You're probably right that there are other brands that work just as well, but once I find something that works for me I'm too afraid to try something else unless "they" suddenly decide to stop making it which happens all the time. I digress.

[@sluggo206]

I got a good vacuum, not cordless, but it's nice to have a powerful one that really cleans. I used to buy used electric brooms from the thrift store, but this was one of the few things I decided to upgrade on.

[@11Renee11]

Yes, I love the Dyson cordless as well. I can clean the house in record time and vacuum out the car without worrying about an outlet.

[@Ripplesinthewaters]

I found that my best purchases were when I replaced all of the single use, trash making, Kitchen items: Ziploc baggies, plastic wrap, parchment paper, paper plates, plastic cups and the like. I replace them all! I now have a set of Stasher bags in two sizes, these rap, and silicone mats for my baking trays. I no longer use any plastic or paper cups or any paper napkins or paper towels. This has reduced a huge amount of waste in our house. I would say that the only paper we use now is Kleenex and toilet paper.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Love that!

[@sluggo206]

My silicone mats have replaced parchment paper or oil for baking. They also serve as a cover for microwaving, which I never had. And I knead bred on them. (For bread you have to dust them in flour before putting down the bread or it will stick.)

[@VivaLaVittoria]

What strikes me as I think to answer the question of what my best purchases are, is how few of my purchases were good ones. I spent so many years spending money on the wrong things, and I'm still in the process of slowly reducing my inventory of the "extra" stuff (like a dozen pairs of high heeled shoes I never wear but had an irrational attachment to). I didn't even have proper furniture at one point so really, my best purchases in the past couple years since I joined the minimalist bandwagon in earnest have been furniture. A couch/sofa, shelves, a proper desk to work at, nightstands... things like that. Also I purchased a microwave, which has made life so much easier- I cook everything from scratch but let's face it, reheating things quickly is really nice. Before I had the microwave I burned things on the stove reheating them more times than I can count. The microwave has probably paid for itself by saving me ruined/burned food!!!

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts Dominica. These reflections sound very helpful :) I'm happy for you that you now have proper furniture and the microwave. Wishing you all the best with reducing your inventory slowly but surely :)

[@lulusp1023]

Microwave is very bad for your health.

[@MS-sr6mj]

​@@lulusp1023Sources?

[@anncat1111]

Over the last few years I’ve been transitioning my wardrobe to a vegan sustainably-made one. My best purchases have been in linen, hemp, bamboo, organic cotton - all natural fibres, warm, long-lasting, and made by people who are paid well and work in good conditions. When I wear these good quality clothes and shoes I feel veiled in a positive loving energy, in tune with the Earth and its life, whereas the fast fashion polyester/nylon/wool/leather collection I had before, even though much of it was bought second hand, made me sweaty and uncomfortable, not just because of the material and poor cut, but because it was full of the pain of the humans who made it in slave-like conditions, and the animals who were harmed. My best purchase to date has been a long black linen wrap dress - multifunctional as a dress, wrap/jacket, goes over things and under things nicely, styles for work, parties, casual, so comfy and of course adjustable if you change sizes, or become pregnant or anything. Mine was from Beaumont Organic, near me in northern England, and I’ve seen plenty on Etsy, that have traceable factory origins. Also vaguely related, just watched Greed on Netflix at the weekend, and it talks about manufacturing and consumerism, in a fairly accessible way. It has a lot of comedians in it. For me it was still quite dark, rather than funny, but easier to watch than a hard-hitting documentary. Lots of love Vera! 💛

[@trisnaekowiyatnikawaii3860]

Aww this is huge ....I am not a minimalist yet. But, i love to implement a minimalist philosophy for a better life. These are my best purchase during 2020-2021 1) Staub dutch iron pan 2) Kobo reader 3) Handmade natural skin care 4) vintage coffee set and dinner set. 5) Marseille soap +bicarbonate + white vinegar to make my own natural household cleaning product

[@SimpleHappyZen]

That's a great list!

[@weronikaskalska4403]

My boyfriend comment on the french press hack: "oh look. You are not the only person who use it for tea"😝. Seriously though, I love your videos... Soo calming and down to earth. Thank you for creating this content. As for important things I would replace immediately: water filter, kettle (addicted to tea) , my phone, blender.

[@gwenj5419]

I use mine for tea also.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Nice!! 😄🍵 YES I forgot to mention my water kettle haha

[@slchance8839]

yEAH! i use mine for coffee but had NO IDEA it could be used for tea. I can now get rid of my infrequently used tea kettle i bought second hand.

[@tedoakley5600]

The older I get the more prioritize my quality of life. I definitely believe "less is more" and that's why I'm considering liquidating everything I have to buy a vintage trailer and travel the country, I feel pretty stagnant and don't feel I'm growing as a person. Anyways, thanks for the motivation to live life on my terms. Take care!

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Hi Ted! I can relate to things changing like that as I grow older :) Sorry to hear you've been feeling stagnant. I feel like there are times in life where it's okay to stay the same for a while :) Whatever you decide, I wish you all the best on your adventures!!!

[@persephone213]

I feel ya! My husband & I are trying to do a similar thing this year as well. We want to RV full time and travel. ☮️

[@tedoakley5600]

@@persephone213 that’s awesome! I’m over the rat race and feel like society is quicksand. I need to start living and living life on my terms

[@persephone213]

@@tedoakley5600 same here

[@tedoakley5600]

@@persephone213 best of luck 🤞 maybe I’ll run into you guys sometime

[@nataliefontane]

I'm a minimalist with no plants. I forget to feed/water something without a face.

[@tamarapackard5735]

I love this video .. i actually really like all your videos, but this was a treat! Thank you for sharing some things you love and are worthwhile to you. Great idea! I also loved the TWSS comment. I didnt expect that so it was even more funny! 😂

[@squenneville1]

That’s what she said 😂🤣😂🤣 💀

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Hahaha had to say it 😄

[@marisacooper5364]

I have never thought of putting my tea in the French press! brilliant!

[@annasavchenko7592]

I've always used it to make tea and had no idea people used to make coffee until recently 😂

[@maytelopez6073]

Loved this video! I have many purchases that I consider very valuable, but my top of mind would be: a nice Herman Miller chair for my home office. I bought it second hand after a couple of months of lockdown (I think May 2020) and it has been live changing, I am very comfortable working and since I haven’t gone back to the office yet I’ve been using it a lot! Second place, Would be my iPad, I bought this a few years ago and I use it a lot! Mostly to watch movies, series or KZbin videos since I don’t own a TV. 3rd place is my couch, I moved to a new apartment 1year and a half ago and at the begining I didn’t know if I wanted to get a couch at all or only the chairs from my dinning table would do. After all I decided to get one because I wanted a place to snuggle with my cat and spend time with him that wasn’t my bed, and I’m so happy I did because now I can read or whatever and be with my beautiful cats

[@slchance8839]

is it an Eames Lounge chair?

[@deedsh6280]

I appreciate at the end when you say you are intentional about whether the item you need should be a higher end or lower end/economy choice. It is true that minimalism doesn't equate to frugality, but intention and purpose. It's a good place to pause and feel good about either option, after you comptemplate its use. Thank you.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

You're very welcome, that's indeed exactly how I think about it :)

[@dandeliondarkling1856]

Orthopedic soles for my feet. I kept postponing it cause it was expensive, but it just changed my life. I can now walk in a normal way without being in pain, I can also even exercise!! (My issue is that my achilles tendons are too short)

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Ah yes great example, something like that can be absolutely priceless :)

[@nguyendl4477]

Best purchases: Nespresso Pixie Krups, Cell Samsung A52, Headphone B&W Px7, Speedo Endurance men's swimming, Yoga mat, meditation bench

[@carrie6582]

That’s what she said “ …: hahahah

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Hihihi just had to say it 😂

[@dominiquetheeasyminimalist]

I own one plant, I’m a flower girl, am I still allowed on your channel? 😁 😂. Can’t live without: My rosewood dining table, it took me 10 years to get one and it’s so worth it. I’ve had my Bose sound system and headphones for over 10 years. My luggage and backpack, depending on the type of travel. And my adopted doggy girls, one is 14, the other is 3 and they bring so much joy to my life 😊

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Hahaha welllllllll......... I'll make an exception for you 😂😂 Just kidding haha. Give your doggies a hug from me

[@sheenalee7602]

I love the sunrise alarm clock.

[@feylights166]

Haha, "that's what she said." XD Those jokes are so easy to make lol. I like to own my books, too. I prefer physical books, but my Kindle has definitely come in handy! I have the Kindle paperwhite, so it too looks more like a physical book, as it doesn't have the blue light of a tablet or phone. I drink loose leaf tea, too! I have teapots that I use when I want to drink more than one cup lol, but otherwise I'll just use a strainer. But the French press is a good idea! I'll have to try it.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Haha yes, I just had to say it 😂 And yay for e-readers and loose leaf tea!

[@chrstopherblighton-sande2981]

Really lovely video that shows how minimalism can help you enjoy the things you own even more and how it need not be a deprivation. My best purchases are: a Japanese rice cooker because I cook a lot of Japanese food and it makes cooking rice so convenient, is the perfect size and even plays a nice little tune when the rice is cooked that always makes me smile :-). My MacBook pro (the most expensive thing I've ever bought myself) because I use my computer a lot and I enjoy how intuitive it is and the quality it provides. A simple blue t-shirt, for no other reason that I just love the colour and I always feel good when wearing it and finally my Kamidana (Shinto home altar) because it has deep spiritual meaning for me. Oh and my e-reader for the same reasons you described.

[@annasavchenko7592]

I also have the same coffee machine as you 😊 I've bought it as a barista set and have been using it for more than a year now. It makes a wonderful espresso, I'm very happy with it.

[@ms.schnapp7415]

Great topic! Made me look around the room as I was watching and assess my stuff. I've got a stainless steel cookware set. I use all the pieces and they're easy to clean and will last a lifetime. TWSS 😆

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Ah yes that's a great one! I've also used the same pans for about 9 years now and will continue using them for a long time. So I could have included them haha.

[@heidiv5720]

The TWSS comment!! 😂😂 love that!

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Hahaha had to say it 😄

[@ValleyOakPaper]

My best purchase was also my biggest purchase - a house. I've lived in apartments most of my life and didn't realize what a difference it would make to not have any shared walls. It's drastically improved my quality of life.

[@DaestrumManitz]

I only purchase things that I will use frequently. Since I love my coffee, your advice on purchasing things of quality that will endure makes sense. I think I will look into a better coffee machine. Great vlog, really practical advice. 😎

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Happy to hear you enjoyed the video John!! 🤗☕☕

[@Ellenslife851]

I would have to say my best purchase that I got recently was my antique treadle sewing machine for $20 because I know I am going to get a lot of use out of it and making your own clothes is a lot cheaper than buying them. And it’s not going to cost me in electricity because it’s human powered But of course I will always keep my grandmothers old electric sewing machine that I have as a spare back up but it’s nice to have one that doesn’t require electricity to use

[@cinnamoon1455]

I love some of the ideas like using a french press for tea. My best purchase is a very recent one. I love cooking and baking and all the kitchen appliances have been something that bothered me because of the space they use. Now I decided to invest in a Thermomix. Yes, they are expensive, but it will allow me to get rid of 3 to 4 appliances and I won't need the slow cooker I have been thinking about anymore. Plus it will make a lot of processes easier and cheaper as you can make your own flour, casting sugar or ground nuts in literally a minute instead of buying them processed.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Sounds like a great purchase! Wishing you lots of fun with it

[@kathrynmettelka7216]

A thick, sturdy yoga mat is worth it though some people don't like to carry a heavy one if they go to yoga classes. My favorite purchase is good shoes. My mother made me promise to get good ones because she got bunions from badly fitting shoes. I don't mean the.fancy stilettos with red soles. At 74 and.without bunions, I wear pretty flats, mostly Vionics, with good arch supports and soles with traction.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

So important to treat our feet well :) And yes you're right, if you have to carry the mat a couple of times a week, I wouldn't recommend getting a thicker one since they're quite heavy haha

[@CarolaAlday]

That’s what she said! 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣 You cracked me up with that

[@lihimizrahi5157]

Mine is an i robot that cleans the floor and does an amazing job. Every Saturday we clean the house "together": I press the on button and luy on the couch reading or watching you tube while the little sweet fellow does all the work

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Oooooh that sounds nifty :) Does it also mop? Or only vacuming?

[@lihimizrahi5157]

@@SimpleHappyZen it also mops, but I am so afraid I will use this function incorrectly and ruin the precious thing that I have never tried it :-)

[@Watchoutforsnakez]

A BERKEY INSTEAD OF WATER BOTTLES. OMG so amazing compared to bottled water. IMMEDIATELY paid for itself.

[@dancingottergirl]

My sparkling water maker, it has saved me so much money and a lot of waste since I no longer buy the cans.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Ah someone I know also has one :)

[@julialoosjes7769]

Nice video! My most useful purchases last year: - wool dress (wool&) - bra’s (organic basics) - the repair of my sewing machines - a stainless steel water bottle - a beautiful reading lamp - a standing desk (oako Denmark)

[@cassandra43210]

Thanks for posting this and especially for linking an e-reader recommendation. I just ordered one, I get most of my e-books from my library and it'll be a nice change reading them on an e-book rather than on my phone screen and getting too much blue light. 🥳🥳 I think some of my best purchases are my couch, TV, yoga mat & resistance bands (a nice low impact alternative to weights), my tea infuser (it's shaped like an owl and it looks extremely cute aside from being functional), my big comfy hoodie (similar to the famous Oodie except cheaper 🤑), my noise cancelling headphones (I particularly love listening to audiobooks on them) and my pots, pans & trays (I love cooking and baking so gonna put those in one category - I use them often and invested in good quality ones so they make my life much easier). As always I love your videos and I particularly enjoyed this one. I know when becoming a minimalist some people tend to feel guilty about wanting or buying stuff so it's good to remind ourselves that minimalism is about the stuff that matters to us and enhances our life on a daily basis and not just about owning as little as possible.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thank you so much for your lovely comment Alexandra, I enjoyed reading it!

[@lenaweber7561]

I also love my Wake up Light for years now. Since I also can't stand the usual alarm sound, this is a great alternative. Especially because of the sunrise function. 😊

[@SimpleHappyZen]

YES! It's so lovely :)

[@phamelanique]

Hello, witch one do you has? I'm comparing the brands and the price difference is really big. Thank you.

[@rebeccal.672]

I have to say that the best item I have bought is a bag by Senreve. I really like a bag that can easily be converted to a backpack, shoulder, cross body, or just carry by the handle. Yes it was a bit expensive but, again this will last me forever and never go out of style. The only thing I would buy again if it got lost or broken is my kindle I really love having books in digital without having to move a lot around with you.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Ah I've never heard of that bag :)

[@borleyboo5613]

My best recent purchase has been my fabulous cordless vacuum cleaner. Just grab it and off you go. My floors and carpets have never been so clean now I don’t have to struggle with cords and plugs and sockets etc.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Sounds great :)

[@francineh.7825]

#9 😁 you made me laugh. I like my latest purchase which is a 3 tiered shelf unit I put at one end of my closet. It's a place for my purse as well as easy access storage for my hat and gloves and other items. My cottage is small so I love functional ways to store items.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Oh that sounds so handy!!

[@elizabethtorresaguilar4482]

“Thats what she said.” = subscribed! 🤣👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼

[@SimpleHappyZen]

😂🤗

[@mylasalamero2124]

Hi beautiful Vera,may i know what kind /type of e reader you do have and where to purchase it...please

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Sure! I have a Kobo e-reader. The model I have is already very old and I couldn't find it anymore, but this model is similar: amzn.to/3JhHRrr

[@jnada101]

What phone company do you have? I want a similar $9/mo plan! Thank you

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Hi there! My phone company only operates in the Netherlands.. But it's a sim only

[@henkmalan13]

You rarely have to put your thermostat to higher than 17-18 °C to heat up during winter? Meanwhile, here in South Africa my colleagues complain about the cold when I set the airconditioner to anything lower than 23 °C in summer... 😋

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Hahaha :)

[@beautifullife9039]

This is such a lovely channel with beautiful content and your beautiful soothing voice. If God ask me to subscribe only one channel from thousands, and unsubscribe rest all... Definately I would keep this one! Lots of love from INDIA. 💕 Btw... I am watching your videos repeatedly. I Keep revising.

[@guadaalansalon5929]

best purchases are good, high quality yoga pants. I have yoga pants that I wear for 5 years or so. best purchase and so comfortable

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Ah yes, good one!

[@pigletsbank437]

Blankets are great ( savers) , Green plants🌿🌴🌳🍀🌱🪴 so beautiful and yoga mat, I don't know what to do without one🧘🏼‍♀️. Ps I am regrowing a celery plant. Have great weekend! ❤️

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Yes! Totally agree :) Happy Sunday!

[@The_Relaxation_Coach]

My electric ceramic essential oil diffuser is something I value. It also has the option of relaxing mood lighting

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Ah good example :)

[@if3581]

“That´s what she said” made me giggle so much! 😂 Thank you for another great video Vera!

[@barbarasylvain5060]

My Kindle!

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Yes, my e-reader for me also :)

[@LibertyBooksAZ]

Definitely a mid-quality laptop. I'm a baby-boomer and late-comer to smartphones, so 90% of my online time is computer-based. On trips I use my phone for everything and that is a nice break from the addictive nature of internet research. Thank you for your awesome channel, you have many good ideas

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thank you so much for your kind comment!!! :) Have a lovely weekend

[@vickieanderson2804]

Vera! "That's what she said."? I'm surprised at you! ; -)

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Hahaha I think I've been watching The Office too much lately 😂😂

[@mary4299]

"That's what she said" I exploded 😅😅😅😅😅

[@SimpleHappyZen]

🤗

[@lmontes271]

Hi Vera, I've been loving your videos! I recently bought the Manduka Pro yoga mat since I read that it was good quality and more dense (better for sensitive knees). Did you have a hard time breaking yours in? It's pretty slippery for me in downward dog because my hands get sweaty easily. I did the salt scrub recommended on the package, but it didn't really help. I was curious if you did anything for the slipperiness that worked?

[@annasavchenko7592]

Speaking of phones, since I love taking photos with it, I opted for Google Pixel 6 almost 3 years ago and having no thoughts of changing it. It's cheaper than Samsung S series but at the same time has one of the best cameras. My next phone will be a pixel for sure.

[@vargavideo]

My AeroPress (though the thing is pretty much indestructible!) My morning up of coffee time is sacred...

[@SimpleHappyZen]

I've never tried it but I've heard great things about it :)

[@dancingottergirl]

I love mine as well!

[@lmo4879]

Same!

[@paulasmagicland]

A (Froothie Optimum) juicer! Life changer and an amazing supporting tool for a healthy long-term diet. 😉🥒🍋🥕

[@soumikghosh8820]

1) high quality face mask 2) branded earphones (wired) 3) own wifi broadband 4) transparent back case for phone 5) vesline to keep my lips wet and perfect 6) Colgate family pack toothpaste

[@claytonhufford6922]

Excellent!!!! That's what she said!

[@SimpleHappyZen]

😂😂😂

[@kingafrankiewicz374]

- Cabin Zero Military Backpack (I take it for every trip, it is cabin sized so I can take it onboard, and I can attach more accessories to it :D) - Cycling glasses and thermoactive underwear - My bike

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Oh sounds great!

[@TheUtuber999]

As far as plants go, my ex-wife decorated our place with lots of ornaments and stuff, and after she moved out I tossed most of it, lol... but kept two plastic plants which look nice but don't need watering. I'm too lazy to deal with real plants. 😁

[@ag-gz1wk]

anything that i buy second hand feels like a great purchase to me, i recently bought some brogue shoes i had been wanting for a while, from someone that didn't want them anymore. they are in perfect shape and real leather so i know they are gonna last me a long time 😍

[@isabelherrera8647]

Vera, where did you buy the grey blanket, any links??

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Hi Isabel! Sorry, don't have a link for that one as it was made by a friend of a friend 😊 It has a waffle pattern, which is something you can find online I think

[@sallydansereau1270]

Some of my favourite purchases are good quality hiking boots and gear. I hike every week in the mountains, and comfortable feet are essential. Also I buy good quality watercolour and acrylic paints. They have better pigments and much nicer to work with. Quality not quantity is a good mantra, and life is short so treat yourself to things that are important. My phone is also always an older model and lasts for year.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Love everything you shared! We went properly hiking once last year and loved it so much, will definitely do that more :) Also YES, if it's something you enjoy, then good quality really makes a huge difference :)

[@Arevsan]

The best purchases so far are our cleaning robot and our water carbonator. They just save us time and money! I also invested in high quality shoes for every season and now I am looking forward to use them for years and years 😊 and of course my ereader! I love that thing!

[@SimpleHappyZen]

They all sound wonderful :)

[@therealjenniferrr]

I hate the alarm clock noise too, it makes me cringe.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Yes, so harsh 😲

[@sl9906]

My throws and noise cancelling headphones are life altering in the best way! With my chronic illness they are necessities. I find a heated throw and a waited blanket are great for those sensory issues also. Yay Vera!

[@vikispirkoska2818]

I hate classic alarm clock sound too😊

[@SimpleHappyZen]

They're so harsh...

[@lovebefree8460]

How do you packing when you traveling ?

[@11Renee11]

My favorite purchases: *Noise-canceling headphones (as an HSP, it has helped my anxiety immensely) *Kitchenaid food processor. (I can make homemade salsa, fruit sherbet, and other mixes in no time and it's easy to clean) *Dyson cordless vacuum (I can clean my house top to bottom in record time and vacuum out my husband's car without worrying about an outlet) *E-reader. (Has saved me a ton of money on books and is part of my HSP toolkit) Purchases I would make again if it broke: * A basic coffee pot * Good quality bamboo bed pillows *Moleskine sketchbook

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Love all of them!

[@lorrem2539]

Really liked this video. I am not a minimalist but am trying hard to downsize all my clutter. I love plants so that is not a minimalist thing only.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Happy you enjoyed it! Yes, everyone can enjoy plants :)

[@arnosmits]

the Manduka yogamat has a lifelong guarantee, so it is for life;-)

[@davedeal9152]

それは彼女が言ったことだ Lol!🕉

[@SimpleHappyZen]

笑 😂

[@ilovethismuzik]

"That's what she said"...LOL

[@SimpleHappyZen]

😂

[@JehanineMelmoth]

Best purchases: comfortable vegan shoes, a good quality handbag, sustainable but affordable skincare at Honestly Eco, my kitchen tool to help me open jars and tins and bottles (I have dexterity issues), pretty cotton handkerchiefs, comfortable warm pyjamas that look nice. :) Several more, but these came to mind. Sustainable comfort is very important to me!

[@SimpleHappyZen]

They all sound awesome! :) Thanks for sharing Cathy

[@gwenj5419]

Kindle, shark robo vacuum, tea cup warmer pad, good kitchen knives, cast iron skillet, french tea press.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Nice! My kitchen knives are....... not great 😂 Something to think about

[@gwenj5419]

@@SimpleHappyZen I actually got some nice ones for Xmas. Some things it's helpful to have really good quality. I only buy the ones I really use. Not a set.

[@CorinnaOnTheRun]

Is your tea press also for coffee? That’s what the link says (coffee press) on Amazon. I already have a French press for coffee so am wondering if it would work for tea too? What do you think?

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Yes totally! 😄 It's just a normal coffee French press that I use for tea instead. You can definitely try it 😊 The only thing I'm not sure about is that your tea might taste a bit like coffee if that's what you normally use it for 😄 let me know!

[@cathylynnpietranton]

Thanks Vera for sharing. The best purchase I've made was my hand bag by Corkor. ❤

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Never heard of it :) Thanks Cathy, have a great day!

[@frockinj]

@@SimpleHappyZen I have a laptop bag by Corkor I used to use for work - made from cork :)

[@SpoonieGee-tr5rc]

Happy Valentine's Day

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thank you, you too!!

[@majhea_]

Hello, as usual, love your video ! I'm like you for the phone, mine is 2 years old, less than 200 € and for mails, KZbin and messages or calls from my kids. And I'm a strange minimalist with books and videogames too ! We love that. Kiss from south of France

[@SimpleHappyZen]

I love that!! Thanks and a hug back!

[@gaylegillit672]

😂 (“aside” to #9)🤣 Since you clarified that you read books in English: Do you and your boyfriend speak English or Dutch or ?Dutlish? (like Spanglish) at home? Just curious. Thanks again for sharing your life and wisdom 💚🌱

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thank you Gayle!! We say 'Dunglish' here hahaha. But we always just talk in Dutch. However, since my work is all in English and I read everything in English, I just prefer it for my books. Unless the original is written in Dutch haha. If possible, I like to read a book in the language it was originally written.

[@mukundjere9230]

Hi Vera... How are you ? Less requirements in life is very important that you showed in this video. You want to live a life with happiness,calm, soothing and mindfulness then go for less but buy products with proper knowledge and intension. Great. Simple language, simple wording not required any fancy etc.. Thanks. Enjoy your day 🎉🎉

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thank you so much, I'm doing well, how about you? Happy you enjoyed this video

[@The_Dutch_Samurai]

I bought a RVS thermos bottle i use for hot coffee and water. I find out it is a very useful water/coffee thermos bottle

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Sounds great! :)

[@slchance8839]

i have my dad's 1960s Thermos, it's metal, dinged up, dented, paint missing, and reminds me of him. Also, i look like tough construction worker. OH MAN, it keeps coffee SCALDING hot for nearly 12 hours!!

[@roxannel6446]

I loved the that’s what she said comment, so funny 😆 I really appreciate your videos, thanks !

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Hahaha happy to hear it 😄 Thanks Roxanne

[@dellyroses6576]

Why with the "that's what she said" comment 😔 .....

[@YayaBolender]

Is “That’s what she said” a usual joke by your boyfriend? I thought that I could hear my ex-husband. I wasn’t sure if I heard correctly but yes, that’s what she said 😄

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Haha no he never really says that actually. I think I've been watching The Office too much 😂

[@tjloutzenhiser5784]

My electric kettle. I have 2. One in the kitchen and one in my office.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Ah yes! I should have included mine too haha

[@Authorthings]

We got two hand-made/crocheted throw blankets from my wonderful mother in law this Christmas!!! We love them. Our heating bill has been high as we usually don't get sub 10°F temperatures and lots of snow, so that's unfortunate for us desert dwellers, but usually I turn down the heat and use blankets too! Also I love the Kindles my husband and I got each other for Christmas too. Our books are all free because we use the local library through Libby (for American users, not sure about other countries). So that's been great!! I used to pay $18 got books and I loved reading but didn't because I never had time to pay attention to my returns at the library. Anyways, I'm babbling. Thank you for the thoughtful video!!

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts, happy to hear you're also enjoying your blankets and e-reader!

[@sharonsharing3313]

I can‘t agree more about hire a professional accountant. I have same experiences like you, hesitated and worried about. Now I feel calm and relax. Thanks for Sharing you tips.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thank you so much Sharon!

[@irinaglezer1017]

"That's what she said" jk caught me off guard 🤣🤣🤣 Didn't expect it. I literally laughed out loud!

[@SimpleHappyZen]

😂🤗

[@quorrakai]

Love the "that's what she said.." joke 🤣🤣 I wasn't expecting that and did I laugh! We need more humor in life. 😊 Aw I love that you and your boyfriend play video games together. My husband loves gaming and I just can't get into it but I always sit and hang out with him when he's playing.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thank you so much!! :) I also think it's fun to kind of hang out while he's playing a game. We happen to both like the same kinds of games, which makes it easier. If he was playing shooting games or something, I definitely wouldn't be able to get into it either. :)

[@MyFocusVaries]

We LOVE our aeropress coffee maker. It's so small, it's a huge space saver. And it makes the BEST tasting coffee. So smooth tasting and no bitterness.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thanks for sharing Candace! I've never tried coffee that's made with an aeropress before, but I hear great things about it :) One reason we opted for this espresso machine is that it also has a steam wand for warming and foaming up the milk.

[@Maat-ka-Ra]

thank you for that video, it emphasized well how important it is to be mindful & concious about purchases, not stress about but furnish the own life with things which match the own life style, make the own life easier & happier. i have several things in my life which i am very happy about. one of those things is a desk lamp i searched for for quite a while after a cheap Ikea lamp was slowly falling apart. in the end i purchased a small & colorful version by Paul Smith of the renowned well designed Anglepoise. it serves me by now for several years & it was one of the best purchases which still make me happy daily to look at & use as well. i once, long before minimalism was a thing, knew a young woman who was very conscious with purchases. i think i learned from her to rather forgo many things io to be able to invest in one good quality item. that mindset of quality over clutter saved me quite a lot of stress & just brought me joy.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

I agree! :) Thanks for sharing, have a nice weekend!

[@TheUtuber999]

Here in the US I also own a cheap Android phone with a service plan that costs $7 (€ 6.42) a month (prepaid).

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Nice isn't it :)

[@psychokwack]

I never buy flowers for myself because a bouquet costs the double of what they cost in the Netherlands (living in Belgium). When i visit family in Nederland, i'm a little bit jealous when i see the prices there 🙂

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Oh really? I didn't know that. I do feel that the prices for flowers have risen here recently as well...

[@design-a-life-you-love]

That's what she said 🤣🤣🤣

[@SimpleHappyZen]

😂😂😂

[@michellewanner3921]

My Kobo e-reader is the best. My iPad died after only 3 years and I spent too much time on the internet. Now I’m a more intentional reader and I get free books from the library

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Yes, I love that about e-readers as opposed to reading on a tablet or your phone :)

[@amyli092]

If there's one thing I'd buy again if it breaks, it would be my wireless headphones. I tend to use them almost every day for various reasons and occasions. It was also one of the best purchases I've made as a minimalist! 😄

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Yes!! It's a little thing but it's so nice not to have those wires and to be able to walk around with them when you want to :)

[@slchance8839]

yes! i researched one of the top 5 from THREE years ago, then bought that model on ebay: top of the line item. NOT top of the line price. Now i can wirelessly listen to ANYTHING while i do laundry, clean out the garage, cook, etc...

[@serenitynow8021]

That joke! LOL!

[@SimpleHappyZen]

😂