Beginning January 1, 2013, I resolved to not spend any money on myself for an entire year. I did it! I did not intentionally spend any money on myself. I did make two mistakes that I feel I should confess here: I accidentally purchased music on itunes one time. I purchased the Glee Movin' Out album. I asked my son to help me purchase it since I don't do it very often and didn't know how...he did it and then I realized...ooops...I just bought something.
Let me clarify. I LOVE Glee music. I do not LOVE the Glee show. It makes me sad. It makes me sad mostly because I am forced to think about the issues that High School kids and young adults have to face daily and it hurts my heart.
Okay, moving on. I accidentally purchased The Great Divorce by C.S. Lewis on my kindle. My friend and I were talking about and I used to own a hard copy of it, but I couldn't find it and I wanted it and I purchased it...and then I was like ooops, I purchased something. I guess it hard to remember that I am actually purchasing something when it is not a tangible, physical item.
So only those two things. Anything else I "got" this year was because someone gave me a gift or a gift card or they gave me cash. That's it.
I can't believe it is done. I won't be doing it again next year... but I am trying another year long challenge, which I will write about soon.
To read more about lessons learned, check out this article in Christian Standard.
Listen to Janet tell more about her experience January 9, 11 a.m. EST at www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing.
Great job! Looking forward to reading more about it and seeing what 2014 holds! Chris
Posted by: Chris Mattix | 01/03/2014 at 12:35 PM
That is actually amazing. So I know you succeded, But I am most curious about what you learned or observed gained from the experience. I expect a well written 1,000 word essay. My guess is that you were no less happy and that you likley appreciated the gifts and kindnesses of others more (just surmise on my part). What about candy, coffee and snacks, did those count. You are an admirable gal J.
Posted by: Mike Hart | 01/03/2014 at 08:29 PM
Yay! I've been hoping for an update!! And now I'm DYING to know what this year's challenge is!!! (Which reminds me just how long it's been since we have had the chance to sit down and have a real conversation. Blergh! Time! Flying!) Anyway, I have so loved seeing your journey this past year and have been so inspired by it. Thank you for sharing parts of it with us here!!
Posted by: Mary @ Giving Up on Perfect | 01/03/2014 at 09:13 PM
I would also be excited to learn if there are things you/your family will change in the coming year due to your experience? Look forward to hearing your new idea.
Posted by: Jenna Unruh | 01/05/2014 at 08:47 AM