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| Good example of "use what you already have on hand". |
After I decide I need something (which tends not to happen very often), this is the process I go through:
1. I use what I already have. Includes repairing and repurposing. If I can't do that, then,
2. I make it myself. If possible I make the thing I need, using what I have on hand, or can acquire for free, such as found objects. If I can't do that, then,
3. I borrow. Includes the library, or "library of things". If I can't do that, then,
4. I barter. Can I trade something I have but don't need for something I do? If I can't do that, then,
5. I buy second hand, gently used items. If I can't do that, then,
6. I buy a new item.
Buying new is always my last resort. It is usually always the most expensive, least creative, and least environmentally friendly way to go.
Good reminders! Love the tree. How creative. Is it yours?
ReplyDeleteLinda
I wish I could take credit for the tree, but I gleaned it from the net because I thought it was great.
DeleteExcellent list! Do you sometimes get to the point that you realize you don't need the item after all? Our library has the "library of things" now too. Bartering is something I've not done much of, although in a way we do it naturally in our neighborhood - we all know we can ask a neighbor to help with things like to move furniture or with a big yard clean up. Have a good day! -- Mary
ReplyDeleteLinda and I have a rule about things we think we need. The rule is that we must wait for a period to see if at the end of it, we still think we need whatever it is. Most often we find that we DO NOT need the thing, and we forget about it. Patience is a virtue, and it pays off. Good day to you, too.
DeleteThat is a great way to look at any purchase.
ReplyDeleteBuying brand new things is the easiest and most convenient way to go, but not always the best way to go. Sometimes, although rarely, it is necessary. The more money one has, the more one thinks it is necessary.
DeleteThis is a great procedure to follow when a "need" comes up. I have a need for someone to come help in my home. I've met someone who has the same need. We are going to barter our time and help each other. I'm thrilled and she is too. I have expertise and skills that she doesn't have and she has some I don't have. Together we are going to get our home projects done and no money will be exchanged. I'll let you know how it goes.
ReplyDeleteI've located a place that sells used refurbished computers. Investigating it as an option. I get used phones when mine dies. It's been working well. The one I am currently using had a previous owner for a while, I've had it for 4 or 5 years. Still works fine.
All our laptops have been refurbished. The one we are currently using is 8 years old, and it is going strong. With that kind of track record (like your phone), no need to buy new.
DeleteAdditional comment, as for the Christmas tree made from egg cartons, It is very nice, but a Christmas tree is something I've not needed or wanted for decades! I don't have a use for those type of egg cartons, but I wouldn't buy paint and all the things needed to make it in the first place! But if you have to have a Christmas tree, then making one with your trash is a good way to go! I reuse a lot of containers that most people throw away or send to be recycled. I love jars! They are my go-to containers for most all food storage. Great for dry goods and left overs to refrigerate. Jars are nifty containers to house all kinds of things. They are all over my home.
ReplyDeleteHa! You are right. I guess it was a strange example to use, since Linda and I have not celebrated Christmas for a couple of decades. No Christmas, no tree, no problem.
DeleteJars are great. We use jars for all sorts of things, including freezing stuff in our fridge-top freezer. It is kind of like canning without the whole canning process. We have official canning jars, but we also save glass jars, like pickle jars. So much better than storing stuff in plastic. We are darn near plastic free these days.