Transition Southampton

Sunday 1^st – My ‘cotton’ anniversary gift to Colin was a hammock, so he can spend future sunny days relaxing in the garden. It was apparently only used once before I bought it, but looks brand new to me. I think he liked it… although unfortunately, we’ll have to wait until we have a garden with suitable trees before he can try it out. 

Tuesday 3^rd – It’s holiday time! Colin and I are off to Exmouth on the train with our rucksacks and tent. Not sure where we’re staying tonight, but the plan is to walk  around the beautiful Lyme bay along the Southern Coastal Path for a week, and stop at camp sites as we come across them.  A low cost and low energy holiday… with nothing new needed.

Thursday 5^th – ok, so the idea of walking for the whole 7 days was short lived once we’d realised how hilly this particular stretch of coastal path is! The official categorisation is ‘strenuous’, and they are right about that. We’ve opted to travel some of the way by bus, and had a thoroughly amusing journey from a donkey sanctuary outside Bridport to Weymouth. Having had 2 nights in the tent, we’ve realised one of our inflatable roll mats has a puncture, but instead of buying a new one, we’re alternating between who gets a better nights’ sleep, and will try to fix it when we get home.

Sunday 8^th – Final day of our holiday, and I’m pleased to find that a boot sale is taking place in a field at the campsite we’re on.  However, I only had about 20 mins to look around, before we needed to head home. Even so, I enjoyed having a rummage, talking to some people, and I bought some Christmas shaped cookie cutters, ready for some festive fun. No jam pan, though.

Wednesday 11^th – Each week I receive an email from MoneySavingExperts telling me which deals and freebies are available. Reading through the latest email today, I was wondering about the underlying impact of all these deals. Argos are offering a bale of 12 towels for £12. Great bargain if you need towels, tempting even if you don’t need towels. I thought to myself what sort of quality are they? How long will they last? What pesticides were used on the cotton? Where were they made? For some, I’m sure that a £12 price tag is too good to refuse, and that these sorts of questions are not even considered. To me, society has an almost ingrained impulse to buy things, and because it is so easy and so cheap to do so, we are totally unconnected to the source of the product and method of production – leading to the consumption of things we don’t need, and an excess of redundant products before they’ve reached the end of their useful life. I think there is room for us all to consider our purchases carefully as there is more involved than the money that changes hands.

Saturday 14^th – we’ve rearranged the layout of our flat to try and entice viewers to make an offer to buy the place. In doing so, not only have we totally confused ourselves as to what is where, we’ve also moved the computer to a different room, and the internet cable doesn’t reach. Instead of buying a wireless internet card, we’ve opted to use an extension cable that we already had. Not the prettiest of fixes, but practical and instant!

Tuesday 17^th – While cleaning limescale out of our the kettle I managed to break the filter. Sent an email to the manufacturers, asking where I could buy a replacement filter and they said they’d send me one free of charge. Well done and thanks EcoKettle.com – it arrived 3 days later.

Sunday 22^nd – I made Jam!!! You’ll have to excuse me, but I’m excited by this as I’ve never made jam before. There is something very earthy, wholesome and satisfying about picking your own fruit (a mixture of ‘pick your own’ and scrambling around the edges of fields), preparing them for use, and boiling it up in a large pot with tonnes of sugar. Great fun, and a great way to preserve the abundant fruits at this time of year. I’ll make some more before the season is out if I can get together enough jam jars!

Monday 21st - While at the farm yesterday picking strawberries, I chose some fresh fruit from the farm shop. Had my first nectarine of the season, and instantly remembered how amazing they can taste. Why haven't I been enjoying them all season?!? Devoured the punnet and enjoyed every one (not all at once!)

Tuesday 24^th – Our shower head is reaching the end of it’s life. Water sprays out in all directions, and the rubber has deteriorated on most of the nozzles. Unfortunately, it’s not something that can be fixed as the whole unit is stuck together, so I can’t just replace the nozzle/ facia, but have to replace the lot. A quick eBay search shows a ‘lightly’ used shower head (doesn’t say why it’s being sold – curious!) for £2.50. I bid, I wait, I get outbidded, and have to wait a week for a similar auction to end.

Friday 27^th – I need cheering up after being house-bound for a few days recovering from a minor operation. As my walking abilities are limited and painful for the moment, I opted for some online retail therapy instead, courtesy of eBay, Oxfam Online and Green Metropolis. I also enjoyed devouring the beautiful ‘get well soon’ biscuits sent to me by my sister – receiving them cheered me up no end (far better than flowers!)

Tuesday 31st - I'm a bit more mobile now, so wandered gently around my garden. Having not been outside for a week, i'm amazed how much has grown. My fuscha is looking lovely, the forses are still flowering, and my alpine strawberry plants have finally rewarded my efforts, and provided enough fruit for a small portion - to be enjoyed with New Forest vanilla ice cream, I think! However, the weeds have also shot up. Unfortunately I can't quite reach them yet, so they'll have to stay there a while longer.

Summary of the month:

Quite a few people have asked if I’m still doing this challenge – Yes, I am! The beginning of 2010 seems like quite a long time ago now, and the novelty of the challenge has certainly worn away a little. Sometimes it’s hard to remain inspired and focused on why I’m doing this challenge, but two things this month have got me excited: The film No Impact Man, showing at cinemas currently (http://www.picturehouses.co.uk/cinema/Harbour_Lights/film/No_Impact_Man/) and the launch of the Ellen Macarthur Foundation (http://www.ellenmacarthurfoundation.org/) which cements quite a lot of my views about our use of resources. Please have a look at both links for more information.

What I have bought new in August:

2x ‘preserving packs’ – for sterilising and sealing the jam.

Friday 2^nd – We’ve got a suite of birthdays and a wedding coming up this month, so tonight I sat on the living room floor, spread my craft materials out around me, put on a film, and had fun making some cards in different designs/ colours. I really enjoyed doing it, and find it quite satisfying to ‘batch-make’ a number of cards, so they are ready for use when needed. I even started thinking about Christmas card designs… although I don’t think I’ll start making them just yet! 

Tuesday 6^th – There has been talk amongst friends of holding a ‘make and mend’ evening, where we drag out those shirts with a missing button, or trousers with the loose hem that have needed fixing for ages, but that we’ve not actually done yet. Sounds like a great plan to me, as I’ve got a pile of clothing that could do with altering/ mending.

Thursday 8^th – Have a read of this article: http://www.guardian.co.uk/environment/blog/2010/jun/29/moneyless-man-cash-gather-posessions It sums up a lot of my thoughts. His rather blunt final paragraph gives food for thought. Might we all be happier if we shared what is available, rather than coveting what we don’t have? And what about if we collectively valued shared time and enjoyment over money and possessions? 

Sunday 11^th – I’d forgotten how amazing cherries taste! I treated myself to a punnet from Isle of Wight-grown cherries at the Winchester Farmers Market today. Most had been eaten before I got back to Southampton! The fresh vine tomatoes were also divine. More expensive than I’d usually pay, but worth it for the taste. This is, of course, not specifically related to buying nothing new, but it offers local great tasting food, has limited packaging/ wastage, and allows me to shop in the sunshine!!

Tuesday 13^th – I made another batch of hair gel tonight, and managed to get yet another consistency! A bit like Goldilocks, the first was cooked for too long, the second not long enough, and this attempt could have done with a few more minutes too. It still works well in my hair, but alters how it looks and how long it lasts. I think next time I might actually put a timer on it to get it right. Having used it for a few weeks, I’ve noticed my hair is much softer, and the curls are more defined. It seems to be improving in condition as well, but does need a little longer to shampoo the flax gel out than other gels I’ve used.

Friday 16^th – It’s my mum’s birthday tomorrow, and we’re going home for a family BBQ. Part of my offering will be a homemade birthday cake made using a fruit cake style recipe (carrots, raisins and nuts are in the mix) and a tiramisu, which is my sisters favourite. It’s a simple one to make, but tastes great! Should be a weekend filled with good food and good company. The fruit cake recipe stated to use a doughnut-shaped cake tin (with a hole in the middle). I don’t have one, and didn’t want to buy one, so went into two shops locally who I know hire out tins (Portswood Hardware, and Classic Cakes of Eastleigh). Neither of them had the right shape, nor did Helen, who is a great baker-of-cakes and owner of cake-related items. I went for one of my  normal tins instead, and thankfully it worked fine, although took a bit longer to cook through. When I told Mum, she said I could have borrowed hers.. although it was in the wrong town, and would have spoilt the surprise somewhat!

Monday 19^th – At the end of the month is my and Colin’s second wedding anniversary! (can’t believe it’s been 2 years already!!) According to tradition, it’s our ‘cotton anniversary’ so I’ve been hunting for suitable gifts, having neglected ideas around socks, hankies and shirts! Instead, I’ve found and ordered something a bit more interesting. You’ll have to wait until next month before I reveal what it is! 

Thursday 22^nd – Hooray - I’ve managed to find some ‘new’ (unused) packs of tights in various charity shops recently. I think I’ve purchased 7 or 8 extra pairs, which is really needed, as I’ve also laddered another 2 pairs! Summer can go on…

Wednesday 28^th - My tomato plants are yielding quite a few tomatoes now, which should ripen up over the next few weeks. I’m looking forward to picking them straight from the garden, and having a few left over to try preserving – tomato chutney, and some oven-dried tomatoes, I think. I’ve been saving empty jam jars ready for the occasion.

Thursday 29^th - We’re off on holiday next week to Dorset, and as I can’t make it back to the Winchester Farmers Market for a while, I’m going to seek out a fruit farm or two so we can feast on some local, seasonal crops, and take some home to preserve. I’d like to try my hand at some jam, but haven’t made it back to the Bursledon boot sale recently, so have yet to find a suitable jam-making pan. I might see what Freecycle, or Gumtree come up with if I place a ‘wanted’ ad.  

Summary of the month:

Another month has flown by, and I’ve not really had any ‘buying new’ dilemmas to avoid. I’m pleased with the amount of home-made items I’ve made this month – cards, pies, desserts, cakes, creative packaging, and some creative gift ideas. I know it’s only summer, but I’m starting to have a gentle think about what sorts of Christmas gifts I could make, and what resources are available now that I can make the most of.

What I have bought new in July:

A bunch of flowers to make our flat look more saleable to viewers; we then offered them to a friend to enjoy afterwards, as we were going away for the weekend.

Sunday 2^nd – I gave my new cycling shirt a whirl on the Isle of Wight Randonnee. Fits great, has handy pockets on the back, and kept me cool going up those hills. A good purchase, but I’m annoyed I missed out on the pannier bag the same guy was selling.

Monday 3^rd – Bank Holiday Monday brings this year’s Environmental Rock event. This year we tried a swap shop for the first time. I donated some clothing, but didn’t find anything to take home in their place - which is probably a good thing! One stall holder, Frances Churchward, makes bags from reclaimed fabrics. They are beautifully made, and I bought one which will make a perfect birthday present for my sister. All in all, we had a great day, the sunshine held for most of the time, and plenty of people turned up.

Wednesday 5^th – the pair of summer shoes I won on eBay arrived today. Unfortunately they are more worn than I was expecting, and must have been stretched a bit during wear and tear, as they are too big for me. Thankfully, the Seller has agreed to take them back and offer me a refund - they are no good to me if they don’t fit. The search for summer shoes continues… and is getting a bit more urgent, as the fabric on my current favourites are wearing through in a few places.

Thursday 6^th – I didn’t manage to make it to the vintage sale in the Soul cellar, but they are supposed to be on each Thursday during May, so I’ll try to get to another one instead.

Sunday 9^th – Colin’s birthday today, so I can reveal my gift ideas. I unsuccessfully applied for tickets to be in the audience of some BBC comedy shows (which we both enjoy), and was too late to get theatre tickets to see Paul Merton and his comedy chums.  I did manage to find a book he wanted from Green Metropolis, and bought an Ocarina (a clay musical instrument) from a friend who makes them, as a more unusual gift. For my sister, I arranged a spa day, to be accompanied by a good friend of hers. For the four of us (me, Colin, Sophie and her boyfriend Rich), I’ve got tickets to visit the newly opened Butterfly World in St Albans – a great place for photography, and it looks like they’ve got extensive gardens to wander around too.

Wednesday 12^th – Managed to ladder yet another pair of tights this morning, by catching them on the zip of my boots. Not only is it annoying, it’s also depleting my stock of tights… only 2 pairs of skin-coloured ones left! It might have to be bare legs and trousers this summer for me, as I don’t think un-worn, second hand tights will be that easy to find elsewhere.

Saturday 15^th – Colin and I spent a lovely weekend in Wales, visiting friends. We went to an open air museum in Cardiff on a working farm with plenty of ‘reclaimed’ buildings dotted around the countryside. Some of them were being demolished on their original site, so the Heritage Centre stepped in, took down the buildings brick by brick, and re-built them! They include a mill with waterwheel, and bakery which uses the ground flour; the oldest pottery in Wales; and a village shop, selling all manner of ‘old’ and welsh food. We bought some welsh cakes (couldn’t resist!), some leek and ale cheese (as a thank you for our neighbour for looking after our cat), and Colin bought a birthday present for his mum in the pottery. I was very tempted by the very cute pottery sheep, but couldn’t justify such a purchase, even if it is a locally made craft.

Monday 17^th – I was offered 2 unwanted toothbrushes by a colleague today. She bought a three-pack of the wrong type, and won’t be using the remaining 2. I’ve snapped them up, and so should have enough to keep me going for the rest of the year. I also accompanied a friend into C&H fabrics at lunch to find a dress pattern for a 1930s party she’s going to. We chose a lovely design and some fabric that will look stunning. She’s only got 2 weeks to make it before the party, and is doing it all by hand! I feel *almost* impressed enough to give it a go myself… but not quite!

Wednesday 19^th – I had a really good rummage through the Winchester charity shops today, after having not been in to any for a few weeks. I managed to find some really nice items – pair of M&S trousers that will be great for work, a smart top, two skirts (don’t need them, but like them!!) and a pretty wrap-around cardi that will be good for cooler summer evenings. And, it’s another £20 donated to charity.

Thursday 20^th – My search for summer shoes has been rewarded, with a pair that arrived today. Another eBay purchase, but this time they fit, and are pretty much brand new. They are also a really lovely colour and design, so I’m pleased! Hooray – at last! I also made it down to the vintage market at the Soul Cellar, but only had a quick rummage. Not quite my style! I wish i'd known about Hepworths when we were clearing out my late Grandmother's clothes, as she had some fab things that were certainly trendy in their time that could have been donated to them!

Saturday 22^nd – It’s less than a month before I cycle to Belgium, and cycling seems to be taking up most of my weekends at the moment. I’ve not had much free time to ponder buying things, so am doing ok with keeping away from new things. I’m still looking for some bike stuff, though, and it’s a bit frustrating missing out on eBay auctions, and spending time searching again for suitable items. 

Monday 31^st – I’ve spent the Bank Holiday doing something I really enjoy – pottering in the garden. It’s been a bit neglected recently, as cycling has taken priority, so it was great to get on with some overdue jobs, like potting on my veg and flower seedlings, weeding, stacking up the empty pots from last year, and just giving it a good tidy up.

We’ve lucky enough to have been given an old cold frame by our neighbour, but at the moment it’s just a frame! None of the glass remains, so I’m in search of some sheets of thick clear plastic. I’ve been wondering if the carpet shop around the corner will give us some of the wrapping that the carpets come in – I’ll pop in one day if I’m back from work early enough.  

Summary of the month:

May has flown past without me really noticing it. I have been thinking of a few more things that I might run out of before the year is out, like tights, but I think I’ll be ok. I’m not making as many things as I would have liked, although I’ve done a bit of baking – to varying levels of success! I would like to be a bit more creative and self-sufficient in my alternatives, rather than relying on eBay… but am still working on how! I considered making a bike pannier, but my sewing skills are certainly not up to that, and I’d need to find some suitable fabric first.

What I have bought new in May:

Bag made from reclaimed fabric – so although the bag is a new arrangement of the fabric, the fabric itself is not new.

Ocarina, hand made by a friend. I feel quite pleased to be supporting a local artist, plus gaining a fabulous object in the process.  

Tuesday 1^st – I’m setting off on my Charity Bike Ride to Belgium two weeks tomorrow, and the team are finalising our plans. All the accommodation is booked – we’re staying in B&Bs each night, and to save on costs I’m sharing a twin room with my dad. The only problem I have with that is that he snores! I hope I’m able to get enough sleep… thankfully Pippa has said she’ll give me a set of ear plugs. She had some left over (unused) from her Antarctica trip. I have a feeling they’ll be a very valuable piece of kit!!

Thursday 10^th – I bought a camel today. A cuddly toy one, of course. It caught my eye in a charity shop, and I though it would make a good, silly gift for my mother-in-law’s birthday next week. She’s a fan of the Saracens Rugby team, who’s mascot is a fez-wearing camel. I’ll make a paper fez for it tomorrow! Not something that I would have gone out to look for (and probably not something I would have found if I had been looking) but a happy coincidence that should make her smile.

Monday 14^th – It’s 2 days before my sponsored bike ride starts and I went into a bike shop today actively looking to buy something new – I was after an attachment that would mean I can use the bike-specific map case that Colin has on his bike, and transfer it to mine. Thankfully, the shop didn’t have the same brand in stock, so I’m going to have to ‘make do’ by tying on my old walking map case (the type that hangs around your neck) to the handle bars. Actually, I think it might do better, as it’s larger, and easier to get the map in and out of. Plus, I’ve saved myself some money, not bought anything new, and am using an item that’s been tucked in the shed for years. BNN triumphs again!

Wednesday 17^th – Day 2 of the cycle ride, and we’re 70 miles in. Unfortunately one of the team has had to pull out at maidenhead (about 60 miles in) due to a knee injury. On the positive, it means I get a room to myself tonight as Dad will share with Peter… Dad did snore, and the ear plugs weren’t enough to allow me a good night’s sleep. Cycling while tired is not a good plan, but thankfully we 'only' had 30 miles to Dover, and I made the most of the 2 hour ferry ride to Calais and had a much needed nap!

Tuesday 22^nd – After finishing my sponsored cycle ride from Watford to Brussels, (you can see how we got on in the attached newsletter at the bottom of this month's blog) I realised that all the ‘old’ kit I had was perfectly up to the job, and that there is a large difference between ‘need’ and ‘want’. I wanted a new pannier bag that was lighter, and easier/ quicker to get on and off the bike, but actually I really didn’t need one. I have a perfectly good bag that is up to the job. The impact of desire and the thought that there is something ‘better’ out there altered my thinking. I’ve also realised that the ‘new’ cycling shirt I got off eBay looks awful on me – having now seen some photos of me wearing it!! I’ll have to sell this one and see if I can get a different one, preferably not in yellow.

Thursday 24^th – My sister and her boyfriend moved into their new flat last weekend, and I’m going to see it for the first time tomorrow. I’ve been thinking about what I could give them as a housewarming gift, so did some research into home-made gifts. Initially I was going to make them some fudge, as they both love the stuff, or a herb basket that they can grow in their little garden but I ran out of time. Then, I came across a traditional offering, which I think is a lovely mix of gift and thought. I got the four parts together in a gift bag, and added a tag with the following:

"Bread - So you never go hungry.
Wine - So your life is always sweet.
Salt - So there is always spice in your life.
And a Candle - So you always have light"

Friday 25^th – Back in March I found a natural hair gel recipe, as I was running out of the stuff I usually use. Today I tried it, and I have to say I was impressed. All you need to do is boil a tablespoon of flax seeds (linseed) in a cup of water for about 10 mins, and strain off the resulting liquid which is gelatinous due to the starch content of the flax seeds. Leave it to cool, and put it on damp hair. Style as usual. I put the excess in a tub in the fridge, and it will apparently last about a week.

So far it seems to do the job – I’ve had no comments from people at work, so it must look similar to the effect with my previous product. It doesn’t feel sticky or stiff at all, and it doesn’t ‘wear off’ overnight. Even Colin noticed, and said my hair smelt better (‘less chemically’). It costs 89p for a pack of flax seeds, which will last about 15 applications. No more £4.99 aerosols for me!

Sunday 27^th – Colin and I spent the day sprucing up our flat getting it ready to sell. Last year I painted the front and back doors in a very smart ‘New Forest Green’, but there were a few patches that needed re-doing. I reluctantly went to B&Q and bought a pot of the same colour, as well as some tile paint for the front door step. I think I would have struggled to find the right type and colour of paint second-hand in the right quantities. So, 2 pots of paint were bought new.

Summary of the month:

I’ve made it to half a year of Buying Nothing New! … and I’ve only actually bought a handful of new items. I’m really pleased with my efforts, and know I’m certainly thinking a lot more about what I buy and why. I am questioning purchases that would be for myself – I don’t buy something anymore just because it looks nice and is available. Instead, I feel I’m taking more time to consider what I actually ‘need’, how it is made and where I might be able to get it.

In general, I’m foregoing what is convenient or available, and am spending time looking for items that fit my needs. I’m also thinking more creatively about gifts, and tailoring what I get/ buy/ make more to the person. There is also a wider benefit to buying second hand – I reckon I’ve spent over £200 in charity shops this last 6 months. Everything I’ve bought there has been saved from landfill and has had it’s usable life extended, making the most of the raw materials and energy spent on making them.

I don’t feel like I’m missing out at all – in fact I’m really chuffed with both my bank balance and my leisure time at the moment – both are healthier than they were last year.

There are a few things I’m keeping an eye out for, and as they are not urgent purchases at all, I’m happy to keep looking. I think that I will re-stock a few staple items next year, like a new set of tea towels, but I’m content with what we’ve got at the moment, and I’ll do some research so I buy good quality, long-lasting items, that are made of organic cotton or similar – Hemp and bamboo are great environmentally friendly materials. The difficulty still comes for urgently needed items, or those of a very specific nature, that are really hard to find second hand or can’t be made – like the green door paint. Where I am buying items new, I’m trying to apply the same thinking – e.g. can I get it from a local independent retailer? is there an environmentally friendly version? can I reduce the packaging?  These are questions that everyone can think about when buying anything – and I encourage you to do so!

What I have bought new in June:

Candle for housewarming Gift – I couldn’t find our stash of candles, otherwise would have given one of them

2 pots of paint from B&Q

Friday 2^nd – My ‘hooked on nature’ housewarming gift, completed just in time, was handed over to my friend today, and I think it went down well (although did suffer a few comments from fans of other football teams!). It’s a simple idea, and easy to make, but very effective. I’ve got all my necklaces hanging off a similar stick at home (see photos at the bottom of April's blog).

Wednesday 7^th – Whilst enjoying a week in sunny Brittany, I was tempted to abandon my BNN year and give in to consumerism - a new item made it into my shopping basket. In my defence, I’d just completed a 90 minute walk up several hills in the blazing sunshine to find the ‘local’ supermarket, and my resolve was low. However, after a stern look and few harsh words from my husband it was replaced on the shelf and the BNN year continues!

Sunday 11^th – Our last day in Brittany, and whilst wasting time before our transport home departed, we wandered upon a street market. Although we didn’t have much time to look around, I loved seeing all the local food and crafts on offer. I really enjoy seeing all the smells and colours and characters. There was even a singing olive trader, and traditional accordion player! It got me thinking about where I could find similar in the UK. Winchester Farmers Market is great for local food, but I’m also craving non-food items to browse, and a real market atmosphere. During the journey back to Southampton, I was wondering if a trip to Portobello Market might be in order, but having checked my emails saw that Megan came up with something much closer to home: GO Vintage at the Soul Cellar.

We’re going to include a Swap Shop at Environmental Rock this year, so that should be another good opportunity to browse. (See website for details, and bring along your items to swap on Bank Holiday Monday 3^rd May)

Saturday 17^th – Some friends of ours arrived last night to stay with us for the weekend. Unfortunately, they didn’t have a great night’s sleep last night as the airbed we gave them went down. As they have a 4 month old baby with them sleep is already in short supply! Another night on the floor was not really an option, so Colin popped out this morning to buy a new airbed. Shock horror! Although, in this situation it is required for our health and well being as a weekend with sleep deprived parents and young child is not going to be pleasant!

Sunday 18^th – Had a lovely weekend with our friends (new air bed came up trumps). We went for a walk around Lepe in the New Forest which is beautiful. Then, after waving them off, I spent the afternoon enjoying the sun in the garden planting some more veg (giving white Aubergine a go) and doing some weeding. Intrigued by the noise of drums and singing in the street, we wandered over to the main road to see the annual Sikh procession passing us in glorious colour celebrating the Vaisakhi Festival. This marks the anniversary of the birth of the Sikh nation, and is a vibrant celebration of peace and liberty. Hundreds of people must have passed singing the Sikh scriptures. A lovely sight and I was pleased to have been able to witness it. 

Monday 19^th – Amazingly, I managed to find the hole in the leaky airbed after much faffing with a watering can and randomly applying pressure to the blown up bed. However, after applying a patch, letting it set, and re-inflating the thing, it seems there might be an additional hole somewhere else. Grrr. I’ll give it another go…

Wednesday 21^st – Found a birthday present for my sister online. Can’t say what it is, in case she’s reading, but it was inspired by one of my birthday gifts. It’s my first purchase from the Amazon marketplace, where individuals can sell used alternatives to items Amazon offer for new.

Saturday 24^th – It’s been a cycle-focussed few days.. I’ve finally successfully bid on a cycling T-shirt from eBay. Bright yellow and under £3.00 including P&P, so I’m happy! Didn’t manage to be the winning bidder for a pannier bag, and forgot to bid on a smaller ‘tools’ bag, so need to keep searching for them. Colin and I also cycled to Salisbury today, but set out later than planned as Colin’s back tyre had a puncture which had to be fixed before we could set off. They are quite new tyres and stiff to get off the rim… he managed to break a tyre leaver in the process so we’ll have to replace them. En route to Salisbury, my gears were playing up, jumping about all over the place, and eventually (but thankfully close to home) my chain broke. I had to walk the last bit home with an un-rideable bike!

Sunday 25^th – Took a trip down to Bursledon Boot Sale, which is MASSIVE! However, as we’d enjoyed a rare lie in and didn’t get there until about 11am, most stalls were packing up and heading home. I was on the hunt for a large plant pot or two to put my birthday roses in, and a small, preferably metal, watering can to tend to the plants in my greenhouse. Didn’t find either of them, and narrowly managed to resist buying more wool for crocheting with. I’ve not had time to do much crocheting recently, and already have several yarns to practice with. We did pick up a ream of recycled paper, as our printer supplies are running a tad low, and Colin inevitably bought some books! Not an overly successful trip, but next time we’ll go earlier.

Monday 26^th – Took my bike into Winchester on the train and took it to Hargroves to be fixed. I was lucky that they agreed to have a look and fix it that day, as their next available appointment for a bike service is not until the middle of May! They did fix it, but the bike needed not only a new chain but new gear set as well. I picked up a new set of tyre leavers too, as being without them is tempting fate! An expensive trip, but the bike is back to normal. J Does that mean I have to continue training now?!? 

Thursday 29^th - My confidence in eBay has been restored after receiving my cycling top yesterday. It’s in perfect condition and fits well. So, I’ve bid on a couple of pairs of summer shoes – all mine seem to be wearing out at the same time! I’ve just won one pair, but the rest don’t finish for another few days. They’ve all been worn, so I hope the are not too tatty when they arrive.

Summary of the month:

I think the novelty of the challenge is beginning to wear off now, and temptation, or rather practicality, is becoming harder to resist. Searching for specifics is very time consuming, and frustrating when there are few examples available. However, I’m not giving up, and think it will get easier again once birthday season is over – it’s my sister and husband’s birthdays in early May, so I need to get my thinking cap on while I’ve still got time to get things posted to me! 

What I have bought new in April:

An airbed so our friends could have a decent night’s sleep

Chain and gear set for my bike (although this is technically included as part of the service, so doesn’t count!)

Tyre leavers for the bikes

Tuesday 2^nd – Sent 4 birthday cards and one anniversary card today. I still have a sizeable stash of cards available, but would like to set aside some time to make some soon. Have a few ideas to put onto paper (or card)… and I’m starting to look at what embellishments I could salvage from packaging etc. Ferrero Rocher foil is a great example!

Wednesday 3^rd – Attended an interesting lecture tonight: ‘Eating the Future’, about food production, a growing population and mechanisation/ technology versus organic/ wildlife sustaining methods of growing. We spend about 10% of our wages on food today, but back in the 1970s it was 40% - how can we expect farmers to look after the surrounding countryside, wildlife, not resort to chemical cures and still proved high quality food when we don’t give them enough to earn a living wage. I’m going to try and buy direct where possible, from farmers markets, farm shops and other small producers. Supermarkets don’t need more shareholder profits, but farmers do need our cash.

Friday 5^th – I saw someone on the train this morning crocheting. From the discussion she was having with her friend (yes, I was eavesdropping!) it sounded like she crocheted hats to sell. I was fascinated watching her, and would quite like to have a go – coincidentally, there is a ‘Learning Festival’ tomorrow at the City Art Gallery, including knitting, juggling, geneology and jewellery making. Might drop in and give it a try.

Tuesday 9^th – Struggling a bit to think of a gift for my mum for Mother’s Day. Wondered about vouchers or a sponsored seat for her local theatre, but they don’t mention it on the website, and the phone has been engaged each time I’ve called. Went into a few charity shops at lunch and came out with a crochet hook and wool (50p each), rather than anything for mum.

Wednesday 10th – Spent some time in the garden after work, and planted out some cuttings and seeds. There are various veg seeds for us to eat, as well as some flowers. The cuttings are going to be my Mothers Day gift, which will hopefully grow strong and provide a pretty plant to be enjoyed.

Thursday 11^th – Made a card tonight for my mum and Colin’s mum. Quite enjoyed getting my craft stuff out again, but took me a while to decide on a design. Need to finish off a bit tomorrow, but they look ok. I hope our mums appreciate the personal touch! While I was in a crafting mood, I dug out a sewing/ knitting book and taught myself to crochet. Didn’t get the tension right to start with, but my second square looked reasonable (apart from a dodgy corner where I dropped a stitch).

Saturday 13^th – Attended a friends wedding today, and had a fabulous time. I didn’t wear either of the items I’d bought for it, but went for clothes I already had instead! I also realised that the wedding gift that Colin and I ordered for Jennie and Matt earlier in the month from their John Lewis gift list was new. As it’s for someone else, I’m not sure if that is out of the remit of this challenge or not. I didn’t realise when I placed the order – which shows me that buying on the internet is far too easy to do!

Tuesday 16^th – I’m in the process of making a housewarming gift for a friend, but need some acrylic paints. I don’t have any, and haven’t left myself enough time to look on eBay. Instead, I thought about asking to borrow a tube from someone. I sent an email around some ‘crafty’ friends, and got overwhelmingly positive replies back within a few hours. So that’s the raw materials sorted… although trying to find a time that I can collect the paint and finish the gift might be more of an issue as I’ve got a busy two weeks ahead.

Thursday 18^th – I’m keeping an eye out of second hand cycling kit, as I’ve signed up to do a charity cycle ride from Buckinghamshire to Brussels in June. I’d like to replace my gloves and get an additional shirt. Not much on eBay at the moment, so I’ll have another look next month. I’ve not found any other websites (other than the CTC) that offers second hand cycling goods.

Thursday 25^th – I had my hair cut today. Hairdressing is perfectly within the rules as it’s a service; making use of the skills and expertise of another. I’ve gone for a style that’s a little shorter than usual so need to use some hair mousse to keep it in check. I’m wondering if there is a way of making my own mousse after I’ve run out of my current supply. After a little research, it seems whisked egg whites might do the job, although that seems rather wasteful. A milk and water mix is suggested, although I prefer the sound of boiled flax seeds: http://www.care2.com/greenliving/flax-seeds-body-scrub-hair-gel.html  I might give that a go… although maybe not on a work day to start with!  

Friday 26^th – Had a day of work and enjoyed a day in London with my sister. We happened to co-inside with a Chocolate Festival, so had to visit that - and sample some of the chocolatey offerings! We also strolled around some Islington boutiques, and saw some beautiful pieces of jewellery, crafts and non-mainstream clothing. Most was out of my price range anyway, but I did miss not being able to buy anything there.

Tuesday 30^th – It’s my birthday! Friends and family have been really great in supporting my Buy Nothing New year for my birthday. I’ve received tickets to see a show, plants for the garden, home-made goodies and spent a really lovely weekend with my family. I am also thrilled to have been given a sewing machine that my Grandmother used to use, and am looking forward to trying to make a few patterns, and finally fixing clothing that has been unworn for many months. Best idea for a present was probably from my husband – he borrowed a book from the library or me, instead of buying it. Top marks for ingenuity!

Summary of the month:

A few people have been asking how the challenge is going, and so far, it’s doing well. I’ve completed a quarter of my year, and am still going strong with ideas and enthusiasm.  I’ve started to learn to crochet, had some great conversations with people and learnt a little bit more about myself too.

April could be trickier, as I’m off to France for a week’s holiday. I’m so glad food is allowed, as I’ve got a bit of a weak spot for French pastries and cheese!

What I have bought new in March:

Nothing for me, but did buy a new wedding present for a friend (although I didn't realise at the time what I was doing!).

Wednesday 3^rd – received delivery of some cycling shoes today, bought through the forum on the Cycling Touring Club website (www.ctc.org.uk) from a guy having a winter clearout of unwanted items. They are worn, but in reasonable condition, and should do the job nicely. I also bought a cycling jacket from the same guy to keep the early morning chill away – he said it’s been worn a few times, but looks pretty new to me.

Thursday 4^th – Popped into a charity shop at lunch, and found a Monsoon top complete with tags still on it, in my size, for £3.99. Bargain. And it doesn’t count as new, as it’s already had one owner. With a bit of searching top quality items can certainly be found second hand!

Tuesday 9^th – At home, our internet connection frequently cuts out as our router is rather temperamental. Given that Colin and I don’t have a TV this can be frustrating when trying to watch iPlayer of an evening. I’ve been on the look out for a second hand router for a while, and finally found one being advertised on the online notice board at work. It’s 3 years old, but you can still find the same model available new for nearly £40. The £15 I paid is another BNN bargain!

Wednesday 10^th – I was reading some info on the Guardian Green Pages and found a link to a website which offers lots of design patterns for you to make things at home, and tips/ methods for achieving them (www.burdastyle.com). I’m going to ask for a sewing machine (second hand, of course) for my Birthday at the end of March. I can then get a bit more adventurous and have a go at making something.

Thursday 11^th – As March and April approach, so does the first ‘Birthday Season’ of the year. I’m undecided about whether to some time aside to make some birthday cards, or to find/ make an online greeting which can be emailed to friends and family on their birthday. It might have to be a mixture, as I know some more traditional folk will prefer to receive a card in the post.

Sunday 14^th – I attended Southampton’s annual Seed Swap at the Art House to get my veg and flower seeds for the growing season ahead. I had several unused packets of seeds from last year, so was able to swap them for this year’s ones. Wasn’t able to get any potato tubers, so will have to seek them elsewhere, but got some yellow courgette seeds, tumbling tomatoes and interesting lettuce varieties to experiment with.

Wednesday 17^th – Have taken a week off work as it’s half term, so I walked into town with Colin. We went into several charity shops and charity bookshops so I could try to find a particular book. No joy, although Colin bought one from the Oxfam Bookshop. So, we did something we’ve not done for a while… went to the library! I wasn’t able to get the book there and then, but reserved it to collect once it was available. Didn’t have to spend any money, and took part in an age-old and highly re-usable activity. A good morning’s work!

Wednesday 24^th – Got given a toothbrush (unused) by a friend today. She doesn’t like the colour yellow (!) which this one is, so donated it to my cause.

Friday 26^th – A very excited Pippa returned from the Antarctic today, having had an amazing time. She bought me back a gift… not knowing how useful it will be. It’s a proper long-lasting nail file (covered in pictures of Antarctic penguins!), which will be great when my others (cheap flimsy ones) have all been used.

Saturday 27^th – Popped into a charity shop in town today. Wasn’t looking for anything in particular, but found a lovely dress (originally from Oasis) that will be perfect for wearing to a wedding in a few weeks, with a necklace to match, all for just over a fiver.

Summary of the month:

I’m finding I’m putting a greater importance on food, and am treating myself to nice edible things more often than last year. I’d imagine that this is because it’s the only thing I can ‘splurge’ on at the moment!

I’ve also realised that I’m still searching for nice (second hand) clothing, even though I’ve not been into a high street store for a while. This could be more of a personal thing, wondering if my preloved items are ‘good enough’ rather than actually needing additional possessions. (Need to have another clothing clear out as my wardrobe is bulging once again… There is a Clothes Swap at the Art House coming soon)

What I have bought new in February:

…nothing!

Sat 2^nd – Took the train up to London to join my family at the Natural History Museum to look at the Wildlife Photographer of the Year Exhibition (Well worth a visit – some stunning photos). It was a cold day and having lost one of my gloves in early December I didn’t have anything to keep my hands warm during the journey. I’d not bought a new pair as my plan was to wait and see if I received any for Christmas (which I didn’t) before searching the Charity shops for a pair. But, as we left early on Saturday I didn’t have a chance. It could have been so easy to pop into Monsoon at Waterloo station to buy some… but instead I made an emergency call to my mum, hoping to catch her before they left for London, to see if she could bring a spare pair. She did, and even said I could keep them. Bonus! Mum’s are great!

Weds 6^th – I usually try to buy a Daily Echo on Wednesdays to catch up with the Green Pages… but can’t do that any more. Will have to look online, or pop into a local pub/ café to read their copy instead, and enjoy a cake or drink while I’m at it.

Sat 9^th – broke a nail today, well three actually – does the cold affect nail strength?  This could be a problem later in the year as I’ve not got many emery boards left, and I don’t think it’s the sort of thing I’m likely to find second hand!! I’m sure I’ve got a metal one somewhere… need to find it.

Mon 10^th – Came across this article while scanning the net at lunchtime. http://www.independent.co.uk/environment/green-living/the-end-of-consumerism-our-way-of-life-is-not-viable-1863278.html Consumerism has hit the mainstream.

Friday 15^th – Megan (my inspiration) has published her ‘end of year’ blog about buying nothing new here: http://lessandlessandmore.wordpress.com There are some really interesting observations and food for thought. Colin (my husband) and I received some fantastic really high quality items as wedding gifts – baking trays included, and you can tell they are made to last.

Tuesday 19^th – Went into town at lunchtime with a work friend. She had a few things to get, and I initially was really tempted by the ‘sale’ signs, and idea of cheap items that would do for next years Christmas presents. But, then looking at the items, and trying to think about who I would give them to, all the appeal was lost. It seems there is a reason they are being sold off for cheap!

Monday 25^th - Maybe including food into my Buy Nothing new experience wouldn’t have been too tricky after all… this article tells of how 300 people were provided with a feast for free! http://www.thebiggreenidea.org/news/newsletter_article/a-free-lunch.

I’m attending a conference in Birmingham tomorrow , and will be spending over 7 hours on a train in the next 2 days. It’s prime reading time… but can’t buy a new magazine, and I forgot to pack any from home (I’m leaving straight after work tonight). I don’t have a music player/ iPod, and although I can listen to the radio on my phone, I’m not sure the signal will be strong enough. Looks like I might actually have to do some work reading instead.. or even have a conversation with fellow passengers!?!

Thursday 28^th – Popped into town with Pippa, a friend of mine, to get some supplies for her trip to the Antarctic next week! (Sounds amazing, and i'm really envious!). We went into a couple of outdoor shops to get her some thermals and other kit, and I was finding it hard not to eye up the ‘buy one get one half price’ fleeces.  It gave me a few ideas of what I could search Ebay for, though.

Sunday 31^st – I’ve survived my first month of buying nothing new, AND survived a trip to Gunwharf Quays shopping outlet! My husband was after some new shoes, and I had to return some ill-advised ‘bargain’ purchases before Christmas. I was determined not to look at anything for me, and it wasn’t actually as hard as I feared.

Summary of the month:

Not really that tough so far. I think that the snow keeping me in the house for a week probably helped, as did the post-Christmas cash flow problem.

What I have bought new in January:

• Moisturiser – I have sensitive skin, so this is a must. I get mine custom made by Lisa of Interblend in Southampton (http://www.interblendskincare.co.uk/), and it’s a great gentle formula with minimal chemicals. I asked her about the packaging, which is a non-reusable plastic pump action bottle. Instead she put it in a glass bottle for me, so I can wash it out and get her to re-fill it next time!
• Shampoo and conditioner – I stocked up on some, but will write to the manufacturer (who is based in my home town of Watford) to ask about refilling options for next time.
• Radiator Allen key – we had a leak, and had to fix it. Not buying anything new doesn’t really work when there is an urgent issue that needs fixing!

For my New Year’s Resolution I’ve decided to try and buy nothing new in 2010. I’m going to allow myself food (obviously), and items that are related to health or cleanliness. I’m also allowed to purchase services, e.g. train tickets, and stamps.  Other than that, everything I buy is going to be second hand, or ‘pre-loved’. As far as possible, I’m going to try and make do with what I’ve already got, and be creative; mending, fixing, and patching where necessary.

It’s been really interesting seeing the reactions from different people I’ve told. Some are incredulous at the idea; others have fired suggestions of things I might need to buy (underwear featured quite a lot). Some have got quite nervous and worried, almost like it is a personal affront on them. Most find it a very alien thought, and don’t understand why I would want to do this. But, I’m not alone – Type ‘Buy Nothing New’ into a search engine, and a whole lot of others attempting, and succeeding in, the same thing pop up. There’s a national Buy Nothing New day in November, and even a whole community in San Francisco called ‘The Compact’ who have been doing it for years.

For me the idea came from Megan, a friend who did the same last year. She was telling me about it, and I was intrigued. At the same time, mid-November 2009, I was undertaking a mass-clear out of my home in preparation for making it more saleable (my husband and I are moving house during 2010 which could be an interesting challenge in itself!). We had emptied approximately a third of the ‘stuff’ out of our house comprising many trips to charity shops and endless freecycles, but we probably still have more than we actually need or use (or can store!). Interestingly, I don’t miss any of what we cleared out - which got me thinking about why I buy the stuff in the first place.

I wondered if I could get by without fuelling the monster that consumerism has become. I already try to buy locally where I can, and use independent shops in preference to national and international chains. But how about taking it a step further and buying nothing new at all?

The act of shopping has become so familiar, in fact, it’s become a national past time for many people. One of my concerns is that we are so very detached from the source of all the lovely and practical available items in shops that people don’t generally consider where things come from and the impact it has on themselves and the environment. I’ve long thought about the resources used in creating the supply that we demand. It’s just not sustainable to consume at the rate we are.

I’m choosing to challenge the perception of needing ‘stuff’ to justify who I am. I don’t want to conform to the adverts telling me I need to have the newest items and be part of the most recent trends. I see ‘must-haves’ as a bad thing for society. We seem to have moved away from being able to purchase good quality items that will last for many years, in favour of fashionable items designed to be disposable. Most of the stuff we replace is still in perfectly good order – we’re just bored with it, have changed our thoughts about it or there is something newer/ better/ more attractive on offer.

So, are there many options for making use of these ‘pre-loved’ items? Actually, there are loads. ‘Physical’, more traditional locations include Dress Agencies (such as Re:Dress in Winchester, where you can get a % of the sale for your high quality unwanted clothes), charity shops, antique shops, cat boot sales, auctions, garage sales and the local recycling centre. These places will sell items such as clothing, furniture, paint, DIY tools, books, other entertainment, and electrical items. Pretty much everything that I think I might need.

But if there is something they don’t cover, the virtual internet based world offers all sorts of other treasures such as EBay and other online auction sites, the Oxfam Online Clothing Shop and Preloved.co.uk. I can search the ads placed on websites (e.g. gumtree, or local newspapers and radio stations often have them) and then there’s the national Freecycle or Freegle networks where people offer unwanted items to those in their local area for free. Clothes swaps also offer free clothing in return for offering a few of your unwanted items.

So many opportunities to get great stuff at a fraction of the ‘new’ price, searching for them at your leisure and enjoying the satisfaction of a find, knowing that you’re extending the use of the item and living a less wasteful life.

I think the main challenges will be:

• Getting out of the habit of ‘just popping down the shops’ for things
• Being tempted by beautiful things!
• Overcoming the notion of feeling and possibly been seen as inadequate, ‘scummy’ or ‘not normal’ as I’m defying the mainstream and not buying into the consumerist ways
• Spending more time having to search for things I do actually need
• Not being able to buy one off and locally made items from craft fairs etc
• Working out what to get people for their birthdays – can I buy new if it’s for someone else and is something they’ve specifically asked for? If not, what will the reaction of my loved ones be receiving a dog-eared book from a charity shop? I think ‘experiences’ could be the way to go… theatre tokens, a trip to London, dinner out etc. Gifts of time and memories, rather than ‘stuff’.

And, I’m looking forward to:

• Not having to battle through throngs of people in West Quay on a Saturday
• Mooching around car boot sales and antique shops seeing what’s available
• Hopefully having more cash – as I won’t be spending it on things that I don’t actually need or want, despite it seeming like a bargain in the shops
• Talking to people about this challenge, and hearing their thoughts (and tips?!)
• Learning new skills that I might need along the way e.g. altering clothes, basic electricals and generally being more resourceful

I’ll keep a diary of how I fare during the year… Here goes!