Consumers....

A few years back I was at this farm and the farmers wife told me she was starting a group exclusively for mom's who are interesting in "anti-consumerism". She thought I might be interested because at the time I was using cloth diapers and eating organic vegetables. I said "sure let me know about it". But (I am going to be honest here....) I was thinking "what the heck is she talking about? I am not even sure if I know what consumerism is - how can I be anti something I don't really understand?" So, why did I say I would be interested? Well, it was easier to say that than to admit I had no idea what she was talking about or that I really was a consumer (gasp! the horror). That was a long time ago. I have since seen the error of my ways. I have really made an effort to not be such a consumer (think user up-er). Although I haven't been using cloth diapers I have switched to cloth napkins. I can't quite give up those paper towels though. Really the main thing is - I have learned to stop buying so much junk. And I am really good at reusing stuff or other peoples stuff and I shop at thrift stores. You already know that. I just think it is better for everyone and cheaper - which I love. And I don't feel deprived in any manner. One of Jake's friends noticed he was wearing a fleece that had some odd company name embroidered on it. It was done in the same color and I would like to mention it was a Columbian fleece. I bought it from Goodwill but it looked brand new. His friend felt bad for him that I was making him wear something from Goodwill and he got him a brand new fleece. That was nice but I "confronted" him about it. He said he did indeed feel sorry for Jake (don't worry I laughed, too - he was kinda joking and teasing me). I tried to explain to him that even if I was very rich I would still shop at Goodwill. I don't think he believed me. I guess I don't have to worry about proving him wrong anytime soon. I love shopping at Goodwill. And I don't shop there unless I have a coupon. You may think I am cheap but I think I am smart. Even if I didn't need that extra 20% that I save - it is a few bucks I could donate, right? BTW...this week I found a pair of Old Navy jeans, in my size, that didn't even have a fray on the hem - mine always fray. I needed a new pair of jeans. I paid less than $3 for them. I also bought a very nice pair of dress pants, a matching sweater and a Fossil purse for less than $5 total (for my interview).

I'm not sure where I am going with all this. I have so many things I want to tell you about....my new coupon adventures (I took Justiene shopping at Walmart yesterday - I think she was impressed), freegans, dumpster diving for coupons, hot coupon world....the list can go on and on. Living the way I do isn't for everyone and trust me I am still a super consumer compared to some people. But I am striving for less. Less is More. I think it builds character and it is teaching my children lifelong lessons. I'll keep you updated as I try new things - it may prove very entertaining (especially if I try the dumpster diving....I want to so bad but Jake is a little reluctant lol.)