So, the challenge: I am limiting myself to only purchase things second hand. This means no Target runs, Crate and Barrel finds or trips to Home Goods.
I adore Shabby Chic and vintage living. Most of the items I treasure most are those which were handed down to me by my grandmothers. Or those found in resale shops/garage sales or on street corners that I had to revamp and recreate from trash to treasure.
This idea is born from several thoughts and desires. I desire to live simply and sustainably, but find this to be a challenge.
There is so much freedom in simplicity and absence of clutter.
I believe this challenge will do many things for me.
1. I will save money - resale shops and garage sales are insanely inexpensive. I am about to be a full time grad student and am headed into the mental health/helping field. A shoestring budget is a necessity.
2. Very Green - I will be able to get good use of items that others don't need any more. I can't tell you how much pleasure it gives me to make use of my grandma's mixing bowls and dishes and decor. Not only does it save me from buying all of these things, but any time someone remarks about it, I can tell them about the classy woman she was and how that's reflected in her things.
3. Inspire creative living. I will learn to make the most of what I have, see possibilities in items I find and be inspired to do/try new things. This is something that is so life giving!
4. Simplify my life - Because I will have to hunt for each thing I wish to acquire, I will be more intentional about those things which fill my home.
5. Refine my style - I have always LOVED vintage and shabby chic and "one of a kind". Limiting myself to only buying that which I truly love instead of resorting to what's most convenient in the moment.
Additionally... this include wardrobe and books (other than textbooks)!!
So, here we go... I will hammer out the details and "rules" in the weeks to come. I look forward to seeing where this challenge takes me. One year seems like a long time, but I have a feeling I might love it so much I won't want to go back!
I just saw this and think it's a wonderful idea!!! I can't wait to see what you find, how you revamp it, and the simplicity it brings to your life. :)
ReplyDeleteI've been thinking along these lines a lot lately, too. We should get some tea and collaborate.
ReplyDeleteI think this is a wonderful idea, both for a project and for a blog! I'll be keeping up with you. Nothing is more fun than finding just the right thing and knowing you've saved money and given new life to an old object! And used books, well, just keep me away from those shops!!
ReplyDeleteAs someone who rarely buys anything new (except food and undies) I am so excited for you. I'm thrifty, but I also think there is too much waste these days. Good luck on this journey (among all your other ones). I'll be rooting for you as I browse Craigslist for used furniture.
ReplyDeleteexciting adventure! and even more exciting will be hearing about it!! dumpster diving anyone???? ;-) i love you so much!!!
ReplyDeletewhat a great idea! i love your intentionality about living simply. thanks for including us in the "challenge." (btw, i think this may be the next "julie & julia" movie) ;-)
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