i love your dedication (: i doubt i can really follow along with this for half a year... but i plan on going as much as i can! seriously. and good luck to you both (:
Does it count if I start a few days late? Because I really want to do this. After spending a day in NYC yesterday and not buying anything, I think I may just be able to do this. :)
Also, I am all about doing crazy/stupid stuff as punishments.
And! I was thinking about how this project could extend into the inventive re-using of all the crap I have laying around. How could I make some of these items more useful, re-invent them (like re-inventing old clothes) or turn them into a wonderful gift that will benefit someone else more than me? I'll let you know if I come up with anything good :p peace!
also, im SO IN. I've already cut back spending a lot lately, but i let in a little out-to-eat and a little starbucks here and there. I am also a firm supporter in the idea that activism starts at home. If every person modified they way they live their every day lives, the world would change monumentally. I'm also tired of just being a "consumer." Ads are EVERYWHERE and life is getting more and more crowded. So no new stuff for me, either for... 6 months! Phew. (continued)
yes i was also thinking about a theme where the money you aren't spending could go to a charity or local benefit, for you guys or someone else who wants to go along. Btw, love the channel and the harry potter concept!
Also, wizard rock fans tend to be pretty intelligent people, and they are perfectly capable of deciding for themselves how to spend their money. Personally, I think learning how to SAVE money and budget your life is the right thing to do, regardless of whether or not there's an economic crisis.
Thank you for your thoughts and I hope you'll continue to participate in this discussion! We love opposing viewpoints!
I don't entirely disagree with your argument, believe it or not. However, I want to make it clear that I'm not protesting anything, and I'm not motivated simply by the fact that I'm offended.
We're in a depression because of a system that encouraged people to spend beyond their means by taking out poorly structured loans and maxing out credit lines. We're not in a depression because people weren't spending -- we're in a depression because people WERE spending money they DIDN'T HAVE.
Great idea guys! Because I have to save my money for Azkatraz, I was basically doing this until then anyways. You guys are awesome, keep changing the world!!!!
I'm planning one major purchase in the next six months (a mac), and I'm actually thinking refurbished on that front as well...I'm trying to focus on sustainable goods and recycling this year.
This is a wonderful idea--when you hit the library pick up "Deep Economy." I'm just finishing it this weekend and it adds something substantial to my thoughts on consumerism, economic growth, and their relation to happiness and global sustainability.
I had some really sweet scores at Salvation Army stores the week after xmas. I got some totally awesome electric blue lined Nike high-tops from the early '80 for $2.50 and I got this amazing hooded sweatshirt with cutoff sleeves. It looks like something Theo Huxtable would wear.
One thing to add on new versus used CDs and books. Matt and I both make our living as musicians and a big part of that is actually selling CDs. So if I go see a band play, I'm going to continue to try and support them by buying a CD or a shirt. And I'll probably keep buying new CDs and maybe books (at my local record store/bookstore) from bands and authors that I think deserve my support. Making a living as a musician or author can be pretty hard and it's good to lend them support!
Hey guys! Thanks for all of your awesome comments! I am so pumped for this project and I'm glad to see you guys are into it too! Matt and I will certainly be doing lots of thrift shopping to get by and we'll definitely be documenting our finds.
Definitely going to be hitting the library a bit harder!
Gifts are a great question! We haven't quite figured that out yet. Maybe we'll go homemade, maybe we'll go new. My dad's birthday is in a month and a half so we'll find out soon!
And Joe made the animation at the end! Glad you like it!
Your resolution sounds a lot like a step towards voluntary simplicity! Authors such as Duane Elgin, Mark Burch, Bruce Elkin, Jerome Segal, Goldian Vandenbroeck and Henry David Thoreau have written some good books on the subject of moving away from a consumer based lifestyle and towards one that is more innerly rich and fulfilling (or from consumer to citizen).
The other thing I really like about this is the environmental impact. There's nothing like buying something in un-recyclable clamshell packaging that makes me feel like a big jerk. Or getting an Amazon box with those silly air bladders in them.
And packaging aside, think of all the plastic bags you won't accumulate!
I learned from witnessing my parents having debt and going bankrupt that living my life according to my available credit was not the way to go. I rarely buy anything, and I always search for used books and movies on Amazon before considering buying newly made copies.
And consignment shops just give me a reason to be crafty! XD XD XD I think I might have to share some videos about that.
Paul, you're always coming up with creative ideas.
HAHA! You guys own!!! This is going to be such a great inspiration. I might try it! But yeah, I can't wait to see how this goes! I love you guyzzzz!!! "These days are dark, but we won't fall. We'll stick together through it all" lol. Aww, that song should be the theme song thingy for this project! and LOL i love the little video in the end...and "out with the new and in with the old" LOL
Awesome idea, I look forward to watching your progress! Maybe I can go halfway? Pass on 50%, or buy nothing unless a) I really need it and b) it's on SALE. We've always been huge thrift store people as it is... That sort of thing. Anyhow, kudos to you guys, you rock!
this is a cool idea, hopefully some of your fans will take a cue from this project and be more mindful of where their money goes and how wasteful the constant purchasing of new things really is.
I really support this idea, and I think it;s a great thing. It's a good take on the whole Consumer thing, it's like how NCLB wants people to be the most "efficient" workers to support the economy apparentely. I really haven't bought that much in 2008, mostly books and some random stuff.
Sounds awesome! And don't forget, you don't always have to buy new music. In Princeton we have the Princeton Record Exchange (if you haven't been there, make sure to stop by the next time you're in town because it's a great place) which sells tons of used CDs and DVDs for obnoxiously low prices. I'm sure you'll encounter lots of such places in your travels :)
What if JK Rowling releases a new book!? Okay, that probably won't happen but whatever. Gosh, I didn't buy anything new at all in 2008 except for books and school stuff. Gosh, I'm such a nerd.
Lol, Think Global, Act Local. I so have a tshirt that says that. I love it.
This is SUCH a great idea.
I wish I'd have thought of it.
Hm. Might have to try it. At least for a little while? I'll work on t. :]
You guys are so cool. Just thought I'd share. ^_^
W-rock on, and I absolutely love how dedicated you are to every project you undertake. Freaking sweet. Absolutely positively freaking sweet.
Highfives to Paul and Matt :D
livexlaughxxACT 3 years ago
love this project!
It's hard curbing my consumer habits... been working on it myself for a while, in a general way.
Not buying new stuff seems to be a great focus!
Looking forward to seeing how it goes! :D
karenergy 3 years ago
awesome. i am excited to watch.
Sareuhface 3 years ago
you're gonna save so much money.
guyswherearewe 3 years ago
i love your dedication (: i doubt i can really follow along with this for half a year... but i plan on going as much as i can! seriously. and good luck to you both (:
xshorty516 3 years ago
Does it count if I start a few days late? Because I really want to do this. After spending a day in NYC yesterday and not buying anything, I think I may just be able to do this. :)
Also, I am all about doing crazy/stupid stuff as punishments.
Can't wait for the first video later today!
illcoveryou 3 years ago
Awesome endeavor, best of luck to you both! :)
mehmeh202 3 years ago
And! I was thinking about how this project could extend into the inventive re-using of all the crap I have laying around. How could I make some of these items more useful, re-invent them (like re-inventing old clothes) or turn them into a wonderful gift that will benefit someone else more than me? I'll let you know if I come up with anything good :p peace!
Fourleggedfreak 3 years ago
also, im SO IN. I've already cut back spending a lot lately, but i let in a little out-to-eat and a little starbucks here and there. I am also a firm supporter in the idea that activism starts at home. If every person modified they way they live their every day lives, the world would change monumentally. I'm also tired of just being a "consumer." Ads are EVERYWHERE and life is getting more and more crowded. So no new stuff for me, either for... 6 months! Phew. (continued)
Fourleggedfreak 3 years ago
I love the idea of this project. Also, I adore the little song at the end. Made me smile.
spockgiirl 3 years ago
yes i was also thinking about a theme where the money you aren't spending could go to a charity or local benefit, for you guys or someone else who wants to go along. Btw, love the channel and the harry potter concept!
Fourleggedfreak 3 years ago
Good luck you two. I'll try and join you but I'm not sure if my will is strong enough because of Harry Potter merchandise.
I have an idea for a punishment. If one of you buys something, then you have to double the money you spent on the product and donate it to a charity.
BotheringTrees 3 years ago
Also, wizard rock fans tend to be pretty intelligent people, and they are perfectly capable of deciding for themselves how to spend their money. Personally, I think learning how to SAVE money and budget your life is the right thing to do, regardless of whether or not there's an economic crisis.
Thank you for your thoughts and I hope you'll continue to participate in this discussion! We love opposing viewpoints!
thewhompingwillows 3 years ago
I don't entirely disagree with your argument, believe it or not. However, I want to make it clear that I'm not protesting anything, and I'm not motivated simply by the fact that I'm offended.
We're in a depression because of a system that encouraged people to spend beyond their means by taking out poorly structured loans and maxing out credit lines. We're not in a depression because people weren't spending -- we're in a depression because people WERE spending money they DIDN'T HAVE.
thewhompingwillows 3 years ago
Awesome project, guys! Good luck.
arthurweasley 3 years ago
Great idea guys! Because I have to save my money for Azkatraz, I was basically doing this until then anyways. You guys are awesome, keep changing the world!!!!
lunatunarox 3 years ago
These books suggestions are awesome! I can't wait to check some of them out!!! ZING!
HarryandthePottersTV 3 years ago
you guys are made of awesome!
good luck with your new project!!!
xxx
xxxrickersxxx 3 years ago
I'm planning one major purchase in the next six months (a mac), and I'm actually thinking refurbished on that front as well...I'm trying to focus on sustainable goods and recycling this year.
This is a wonderful idea--when you hit the library pick up "Deep Economy." I'm just finishing it this weekend and it adds something substantial to my thoughts on consumerism, economic growth, and their relation to happiness and global sustainability.
Best of luck, I think I'm already inspired!
rowenamarion 3 years ago
rock n' roll
teenagelobotomyjake 3 years ago
When you're at the library, pick up Feed, by MT Anderson. It made me want to buy less.
Not that I buy a lot now. Like, I see people with their fancy phones and computers and clothing, and I want. But really, I don't need.
Good luck with the project! It's awesome.
Starlysh 3 years ago
That's so cool! Good luck you guys! I'm totally subscribing!
emilyelysse 3 years ago
I had some really sweet scores at Salvation Army stores the week after xmas. I got some totally awesome electric blue lined Nike high-tops from the early '80 for $2.50 and I got this amazing hooded sweatshirt with cutoff sleeves. It looks like something Theo Huxtable would wear.
HarryandthePottersTV 3 years ago 3
One thing to add on new versus used CDs and books. Matt and I both make our living as musicians and a big part of that is actually selling CDs. So if I go see a band play, I'm going to continue to try and support them by buying a CD or a shirt. And I'll probably keep buying new CDs and maybe books (at my local record store/bookstore) from bands and authors that I think deserve my support. Making a living as a musician or author can be pretty hard and it's good to lend them support!
HarryandthePottersTV 3 years ago 2
Hey guys! Thanks for all of your awesome comments! I am so pumped for this project and I'm glad to see you guys are into it too! Matt and I will certainly be doing lots of thrift shopping to get by and we'll definitely be documenting our finds.
HarryandthePottersTV 3 years ago 2
This is an awesome idea. I started looking into used book stores in town today and found out I can trade in my old books for new ones.
wrockforever 3 years ago
How do books fit into this project?
Are you confining yourself to the library?
Also gifts...are they an exception or are you limited to homemade gifts?
And I love the animation at the end. Brings back memories of the UEE forums XD
wannabeinhogwarts 3 years ago
Definitely going to be hitting the library a bit harder!
Gifts are a great question! We haven't quite figured that out yet. Maybe we'll go homemade, maybe we'll go new. My dad's birthday is in a month and a half so we'll find out soon!
And Joe made the animation at the end! Glad you like it!
HarryandthePottersTV 3 years ago 2
I was actually planning to go used/homemade for gifts too. I already warned Lauren that I'm gonna be a crappy boyfriend for six months. haha.
thewhompingwillows 3 years ago 2
This is great, way to go you guys, I'll be watching!
SalsaShanno 3 years ago
Your resolution sounds a lot like a step towards voluntary simplicity! Authors such as Duane Elgin, Mark Burch, Bruce Elkin, Jerome Segal, Goldian Vandenbroeck and Henry David Thoreau have written some good books on the subject of moving away from a consumer based lifestyle and towards one that is more innerly rich and fulfilling (or from consumer to citizen).
Best of luck!
raspberry211 3 years ago
You guys are incredible, and this is an awesome project.
<3
TrouserSnape 3 years ago
The other thing I really like about this is the environmental impact. There's nothing like buying something in un-recyclable clamshell packaging that makes me feel like a big jerk. Or getting an Amazon box with those silly air bladders in them.
And packaging aside, think of all the plastic bags you won't accumulate!
marshmallowfreya 3 years ago
ABSOLUTELY! That's a huge part of this project! And you know that when we go buy our groceries we'll be bringing our reusable shopping bags!
HarryandthePottersTV 3 years ago 2
I learned from witnessing my parents having debt and going bankrupt that living my life according to my available credit was not the way to go. I rarely buy anything, and I always search for used books and movies on Amazon before considering buying newly made copies.
And consignment shops just give me a reason to be crafty! XD XD XD I think I might have to share some videos about that.
Paul, you're always coming up with creative ideas.
Lizzilicious 3 years ago
HAHA! You guys own!!! This is going to be such a great inspiration. I might try it! But yeah, I can't wait to see how this goes! I love you guyzzzz!!! "These days are dark, but we won't fall. We'll stick together through it all" lol. Aww, that song should be the theme song thingy for this project! and LOL i love the little video in the end...and "out with the new and in with the old" LOL
pickles4muggles 3 years ago
YES Good Luck Guys! way to decrease World Suck
Modo3000 3 years ago
this is so epic. it's a great thing to try and attempt.
femoman 3 years ago
That's awesome. Good luck you guys!
UntillDeathComes 3 years ago
Awesome idea, I look forward to watching your progress! Maybe I can go halfway? Pass on 50%, or buy nothing unless a) I really need it and b) it's on SALE. We've always been huge thrift store people as it is... That sort of thing. Anyhow, kudos to you guys, you rock!
WeirdEtherealWolf 3 years ago
Sounds like a fantastic idea to me. Good luck guys!
dwood2001 3 years ago
Guys, this is awesome! Good luck. :)
JustMargaret 3 years ago
this is a cool idea, hopefully some of your fans will take a cue from this project and be more mindful of where their money goes and how wasteful the constant purchasing of new things really is.
hannahelphaba 3 years ago
This is such an awesome idea! I can't wait to see how it goes
awoller 3 years ago
im so proud of you guys.. i might have to do this myself... i only get new stuff from other people i cant wait for more videos!!
Debbi
my family got our big tele from the garbage when someone threw out a perfectly good tv when they got a flat screen
misfit2008 3 years ago
This.... is brilliant. I'm in. Seeing as I'm spending the first month of the year with Matt, 24/7, it'll be easy to remember.
WORK IT, KIDS.
ISnoggedHarry 3 years ago 3
dude this is fucking awesome. really.
LizlikesHPalot 3 years ago
Yaaaay matt& Paul. good idea srsly =)
i rely blow alot of my money on wierd crap.
But im usually pretty good... Except when it comes to Hp =P
I mean I SERIOUSLY do NOT need that Hagrid action figuire...
XxDawlishxX 3 years ago
Yeah, same here. There are some HP things that I really did not need.....
sopralto817 3 years ago
I might actually join you guys with this project. It should be interesting. The only exception for me is that my dad is getting me a Macbook.
speede179 3 years ago
wow. that's awesome. good luck. xD
endematic 3 years ago
This sounds like a good idea.
I would try to do this but I'll be leaving for college soon and might need to buy a few things.
However, I'll just keep my buying down to a min...
deathandlife667 3 years ago
I'm assuming used products are alright?
In any case, good luck! I can't wait to watch you guys.
eyessilvery 3 years ago
Yup! Used stuff is totally fine and encouraged! Thrift stores will be my new home for six months!
thewhompingwillows 3 years ago 3
Wow, that sounds interesting. But I would not survive such a project. Six months without shopping! Six months without new books! *dies*
Okay, I guess that's what this is about: Not to be addicted to buying...
Good Luck, guys!
DoogieRace 3 years ago
Buy books used! Those businesses need your support more than Barnes and Noble, trust me! :D
thewhompingwillows 3 years ago 3
Libraries! Remember those?
ISnoggedHarry 3 years ago 4
I really support this idea, and I think it;s a great thing. It's a good take on the whole Consumer thing, it's like how NCLB wants people to be the most "efficient" workers to support the economy apparentely. I really haven't bought that much in 2008, mostly books and some random stuff.
But yeah, cool idea!
Painfoot 3 years ago
Sounds awesome! And don't forget, you don't always have to buy new music. In Princeton we have the Princeton Record Exchange (if you haven't been there, make sure to stop by the next time you're in town because it's a great place) which sells tons of used CDs and DVDs for obnoxiously low prices. I'm sure you'll encounter lots of such places in your travels :)
ispeaktroll 3 years ago 2
neat-o guys! we pretty much never buy new stuff. i am a thrift store addict!
tinaolson 3 years ago
What if JK Rowling releases a new book!? Okay, that probably won't happen but whatever. Gosh, I didn't buy anything new at all in 2008 except for books and school stuff. Gosh, I'm such a nerd.
Ifancyharrypotter 3 years ago
I would totally buy a new J.K. Rowling book -- and then I'd get punished! :D
thewhompingwillows 3 years ago 4
Or you could borrow it from the library and then buy it in 2010
AurorLexi89 3 years ago
I'm excited for this!
partyweetow 3 years ago
sounds like freeganism! and really cool :D
taximeter 3 years ago
What a great & thoughtful project! :)
kdakes7 3 years ago
awesome. good luck! :]
ibelieveinnargles 3 years ago
sounds like an awesome project :D
Huvudpain 3 years ago
wow awesome project guys:)
ilsehugsbeatles 3 years ago
Oh man, this is such a feat! Best of luck and I look forward to the progress of this!
teahwee 3 years ago