Plan #1:
I have decided, on a whim, to document for a month everything I buy. Let's face it, money is scarce for me these days so how I spend my money is going to be key.
I will take pictures and record the money I spend on everything. I find that if I am not made to be aware of what I spend and what I spend it on, my money goes very quickly and I end up buying things I do not really need or want. I think by documenting it I will be more aware. This is purely an experiment. I should also note that for the last 2 years I have been on a do not buy unless needed kick. I have been successful in some ways but in others I feel I have failed. There is always a desire to want things and sometimes I have given in.
Examples of what I buy that is good:
I try and buy clothing that is used or revamp what I already have.
I buy antiques or reuse items instead of new items for my house.
Food wise I do not buy processed food if I can help it.
Examples of what I buy that is bad:
Everyone wants new clothes. Sometimes I buy something new. I try and buy it if it is made in Canada or if it is organic.
My food is bought mainly at the grocery store and is not organic anymore. I have had financial reasons for why I stopped buying organic food that I hope will change soon. Buying organic is expensive.
Examples of the changes I wish to make:
Buy local veggies and meat.
Continue to buy used and vintage.
I want to walk more and take public transportation when I can.
Examples of things I do that is good for the environment:
I clean for a living now and I use only Eco products. I use Enjo products which use only water 99% of the time. If I have to I use dish soap for floors and baking soda for my drains.
I buy organic soaps and shampoos. Nothing goes down my drains that is not good.
I am conscious of my water use every day.
I make cookies and fresh dinners. Our lunches are always litter-less and fresh.
Plan #2
Make more eco-crafts. It makes me happy to be creative and I love making things by reusing. I love the challenge of it and I love the reactions I get from people. I plan on doing one or two shows this year. In doing these crafts/art, I have decided to take several courses to expand my skills in different areas. I can hardly wait. I will also enlist my friends and acquaintances into teaching me any skill they have as well.
Plan #3
Get into better shape. I would like to restart running in the spring. I am also planning on starting my own boxing/exercise class. Just me. I think it will be a great work out. I am also planning on walking everywhere. Weekends I will walk and take the family and see all the great trails we have around and enjoy each season.
Come with me on my new year of change. Some recycled plans and some new and improved.
I will post my purchases soon - I have not bought anything this month yet!
