too many?

No Buy Zone Pt 1 July 1, 2012 thru June 30, 2013. Just back from three months of volunteering in West Africa, I felt smothered by the excess in my U.S. life–too many clothes, too many shoes, too many products, too many choices. Too many and too much of everything. Living in a Third World country had pushed the excess in my life front and center so that it became impossible to ignore. Quite frankly, it disgusted me. So for one year, NO non-essential purchases for myself with only two freebies: regular haircuts and occasional pedicures. And thus, No Buy Zone, Pt 1. I lived to tell about it, although toward the end I was really holding my breath waiting for my whole backside to be exposed as I continued to go everywhere in my two pair of worn-thin jeans. I was doctoring up my multiple black tops with a Sharpie. (BTW, I have not been able to bring myself to wear those jeans or the Sharpied tops since.)

I also committed to give away one thing of value everyday for 365 days. It had to be given to someone who really wanted it–bags to the Goodwill didn’t count. Because of my travel schedule, it didn’t happen that I literally gave away something every day, but I did keep track of the items and ended the year gifting 450+ items. It was so fun!

No Buy Zone Pt 2 July 1, 2014 thru June 30, 2015. Although I never intended to have a Pt 2, I am. To be honest, I’m lacking in enthusiasm this time around, but I’m making the commitment anyway feeling confident that I’ll rediscover the freedom and joy that I felt during Pt 1. I am allowing myself a few additional freebies this time around. In addition to haircuts, I’m going to allow myself limited purchases of second-hand clothing. I’m still going to meet-up with friends for coffee, glass of wine, or food. As with the first time around, I’m NOT stocking up prior to.

I’m also not committing to give away an item a day this year, mainly because in the past month we’ve already made 6 trips to Goodwill, put multiple items on Butte County Yard Sale and Craig’s List. Thanks to our DIL, OJ and I have made incredible headway on clearing out even MORE excess. Moving it all on to the next owners.

Now ready to start Pt 2. I’ve just inventoried my underwear and (thank God!) I’ll be good until 2015.

Really. How many watches does one person really need.

You can come along for the ride without getting on the roller coaster.

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