nothing new

I like a challenge. I just completed a 9 week wellness challenge modeled after this blog and I loved the habits I broke and formed. I also have a thing for recycling and reusing although I've had a hard time making thrifting a part of my life...mostly due to laziness. But considering a good thrift find rivals a spiritual experience for me it is time to commit.

Soooo.....

I am taking on a challenge beginning January 1 for 6 months. I will be doing it along with my friend Cami, but she will be doing the challenge for an entire year! My challenge is to buy nothing new for 6 months with a few exceptions:

Okay to buy:
-Groceries (try to buy local first)
-Toiletries such as toothpaste, deodorant, laundry detergent etc.
-Eating out when it is part of a social gathering
-Health expenses as needed (i.e.: glasses, prescriptions, doctor visits)
-Travel

-Live performances (not that I go to many but I want to keep myself open to possibility or experience)

-Fabric and craft supplies. I must try to find recycled first and limit my budget to $35 per month.
-Anything with a gift card.

NOT Okay to buy:
-Gifts that are bought. It is okay for me to give money though.
-New clothing, jewelry or accessories
-New shoes

-New books, magazines, movies, music etc.
-New electronics (The exception being if my cell phone stops working since we don't have a land line, it would get replaced)

Exception: I am giving myself $25 per month in mad money, which can be used for anything. It also can be rolled into the next month. If I sell something then this money can go into this mad money account.

For accountability I plan to blog once a week about the challenge.

Cami posted a few articles which inspired her: here, here, and here. I was also inspired by this blog and hope to put it to good use. Cami inspired me. I am a natural follower I guess, but at least I pick good friends! And for those of you that think this is a poor man's challenge...consider the fact that Cami's husband is currently clerking on the U.S. Supreme Court. As for me...I just want to make saving money fun.

If, by chance, you are inspired...join us!