Sort of resolution ...

... I read yesterday about a group of folk who signed up for a compact - a resolution to give up shopping for a year. I think it's a brilliant idea, especially when I read that some of the members were attacked for being "unamerican" and were accused of "economic terrorism" - COOL
So Mr Brown (who doesn't know this yet - hi Poppet!) and I are going to give it a go.
I visited the compact blog and read the rules - I'm going to tweak them a bit to suit the Brown-Mice - and here they are.
1. Try not to buy new products of any kind (from shops, the interweb, etc).
2. There possible, borrow or buy used.There are some exceptions (thank goodness) -
* Food, drink, and necessary medicine, necessary cleaning products, but not equipment, socks & jocks (if necessary & not the fancy kind).
* Utilitarian services (plumbers, electricians, mechanics for the Ute and vets for the girls [fingers crossed] ). However, try to support local businesses.
* Recreational services (massage, etc.) & local artisan items - For gifts and self, but not to be over-indulged in for personal gratification. (When I read this I’ll admit to a sigh of relief, I’m going to include pedicures here because, bugger it, a girl MUST have pretty toes).
* Charitable contributions.
* Plants and cut flowers - Whenever possible, cultivate from free cuttings or seeds. These are apparently ok in extreme moderation if bought from local businesses (i.e NOT the Bunnings mega nursery)--and within reason.
* Art supplies - When absolutely necessary (for professionals and talented amateurs), from local businesses. (I’m going to include knitting wool here – so I can become a talented amateur)
* Magazines, newspapers, renewals only, no new subscriptions. Even better to consume online (thank GOODNESS).
* Video rentals and downloadable music files (non-material). (I’m adding the occasional movie ticket here!)
Sounds manageable, I’m not going to be a Nazi about it, I’m sure there will be slip ups, but we’ll do our best.