Krista's 12 Month Pledge

In an effort to be debt free by the end of 2008, my family will actively work to reduce our consumer imprint. When we need something we will try to get the item used (Thrift stores, Craigslist, Freecycle, yard sales, etc) borrow or barter.


My Pledge:
Follow the rules and exemptions of the original Ccompact, with a few personal exemptions. Connect with other "Compacters" in Michigan, to share resources.
The Principals and Exemptions of The Compact

• #1 Don't buy new products of any kind (from stores, web sites, etc.)
• #2 Borrow, barter, or buy used.
• A few exceptions - using the "fair and reasonable person" standard -- i.e., you'll know in your heart when you're rationalizing a violation:
  
• food, drink, and necessary medicine (no elective treatments like Viagra or Botox)
• necessary cleaning products, but not equipment (don't go out and buy the Dyson Animal, for example).
  
• socks and underwear (utilitarian--non-couture or ornamental)
• pajamas for the children
• Utilitarian services (plumbers, electricians, auto mechanics, veterinarians, dog/house-sitters, fire/paramedics, dry cleaners, house cleaners, etc.) -- Support local and encourage used parts (rebuilt transmission, salvaged headlight unit, etc.)
• Recreational services (massage, etc.) & local artisanal items - Good sources for gifts, but should not be over-indulged in for personal gratification
  
• Charitable contributions (Seva, Heifer, and the like) - an even better source for gifts
  
• Plants and cut flowers - Whenever possible, cultivate from free cuttings or seeds. Ok in extreme moderation (yo, incoming oxy) when purchased from local businesses (i.e., not the Target Garden Shop)--and again, within reason
  
• Art supplies - First line of attack: SCRAP. When absolutely necessary (for the professionals and talented amateurs in the group), from local businesses
  
• Magazines, newspapers, Netflix - renewals only, no new subscriptions. Even better to consume online
• Video rentals and downloadable music files (non-material) -- freely shared and legal, please

Our Personal Exemptions

• Clothes and shoes for my tall and skinny boys who have huge feet. (We will always try to find things secondhand before we resort to new.)
• Small gifts for my elderly, out of state grandmother
• Homeschooling books and supplies (We will always try to find things secondhand before we resort to new.)
• A bed (Because believe me, no one needs a new bed more than we do. I promise you.)
  

(X-posted at Life, in a Nutshell)