Had a brother-in-law some years back who was working as a stockbroker in San Francisco. He got robbed and lost all his possessions. He changed his attitude about life after that--bought a houseboat in Sausilito and traded in his Porche for an old beat-up VW that he could park at the marina and wouldn't have to worry about loss if someone broke into it or bashed it up. He still had his pretty clothes, but hitched a ride to work at 5 AM (to match EST market opening) and lived pretty simply. Had just a few simple possessions as not much would fit in the houseboat. He was very happy there. He did die young--got a malignant, fast-growing brain tumor in his mid forties. But he lived life to the fullest. He said his happiest days were in the little houseboat.

My husband and I travel a lot and have a lot of friends all over the globe. But our happiest times are simple days at home. We do enjoy simple things with friends, though. I'm not sure if I would be into the "hermit" lifestyle. But simple, yes.