Monday, December 20, 2010

rules of engagement

finally....the rules!

i find it necessary to write them out, and be very specific, otherwise i'm sure i'll find ways to cheat my own system. i know few of you think i can even make it a month, but i am determined to see it through - the WHOLE YEAR. but there will be necessary purchases, and i mean that to be serious, knowing that an amazing new blazer isn't a necessity.

here goes.

  1. socks and undergarments are NOT included and can be considered necessary purchases
  2. the money from any items that are sold on ebay or at consignment shops will go into a "slush fund" and that money CAN be used to make purchases (see slush fund tally on the right).
  3. any sporting equipment that is needed throughout the year is allowed (unfortunately lululemon speed shorts don't fit into this category). running sneakers for the marathon, or accessories for my bike, are allowed.
  4. special occasions. here's where it gets tricky. i know that i have weddings and other special occasions that will warrant pretty dresses, however i have quite a few already hanging in my closet. so, if and ONLY IF, i have an occasion where i am in need of a new frock (like a black tie gala for example) i can purchase something ONLY after the jury (rachel flynn) has OKed it.
  5. gifts are all fine, as long as for other people.
  6. gift cards are all fair game. if i receive a gift card this holiday season i can use it in the new year, but cannot spend over the amount of the card.
  7. i must post about anything i purchase.
so that's it. with 2011 only 11 days away i am feeling ready and comfortable with this.

if you were going to forgo purchases for a month or 2 - what would you miss the most?

3 comments:

  1. Serious rules! But good allowances. You definitely wouldn't want to hurt yourself because you couldn't buy a new pair of runners for marathon training!

    Let the games begin!

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  2. I like this rules! And with them I think I can commit to 6 months. Maybe I'll make it a year. But starting with 6 months is great. I was nervous about things like sports bra.s I don't have very many and don't have money to buy a new Frog Bra which is the only kind that I can run in - if I got healthy enough to play rugby I would have to buy some! Also was worried about shoes for J&J's wedding and also potentially for Vegas - all my heels are practical ;)

    So approval by you will be perfect - I think we should say that we have to discuss what we currently have to make sure we have to buy instead of borrow!!

    Also, Bliz told me I was breaking all rules of economy by trying to scramble to make necessary purchase for the year as opposed to getting them when needed.....

    It is going to be HARD!! Go TEAM!

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  3. SO GLAD to finally have internet and be following you!! :) Your Thrifty '11 would NOT work in Sydney...

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