THE CHALLENGE:
I’m so excited and a little freaked out to announce this year’s Thrive challenge:
I’m remodeling my house this year with a budget of:
$0.00!
That’s right. I’m going to see just how far I can make NADA, ZIP and ZILCH stretch in 2011.
My six month self-imposed Thrive challenge to craft without spending anything ended in December, but I feel stronger than ever that I need to continue–and even expand–my challenge. For me, this is my biggest step so far towards proving that creativity and progress don’t have to be casualties of situations like ours.
So I’ve committed to see how much of my lovely 1979 split-level house can be remodeled by trading, bartering, scavenging, “Free” on Craigslist-ing, Freecycling and repurposing like a mad woman. And all of those newly remodeled spaces are going to need fun, free decor to spruce them up, too, so the crafting will continue.
Each month I’ll showcase both the progress I’ve been able to make and tips on scoring free materials like paint and tile.
THE REASON:
GROUND RULES:
The rules are the same as the craft challenge which means staples are the only allowed purchases: glue, nails, caulk, tape. Everything else—paint, trim, flooring, furniture, decor, etc.—can only be acquired for free.
No spending. No shopping. No problem.
Wish me fun –this is going to be an adventure!
And feel free to join the fun. I’d love to see what you’re working on, too. You can post them on the Thrive FB page, Flicrk pool, or email me at choosetothriveblog (at) gmail (dot) com.
20 Comments
This is a really awesome challenge! I can't wait to see what all you come up with!
Good luck.. it will be interesting to see what you come up with… i am a craftaholic.. but bad economy and cut back in my work hrs really limits me now.. your inspiring because you have a family.. a husband.. children and still find the time to entertain us 🙂
Wow, this sounds so fun. I am excited to follow along as I too have to get creative with what I have. You are so talented that way. Following you on your blog and facebook.
Bonnie from somewhereincraftland.blogspot.com
wicked challenge! just lost my job in November….I have been a huge fan of your blog since I found it – you have SO inspired me – thank you! big hug too!
It will be neat to see what you accomplish.
I love Free! I can't wait to see what your creative mind comes up with!
Way to go Neek!
Ooooh, I cannot wait to see how you do. I love self-imposed challenges like this. I always think they bring out people's creativity in unexpected ways. Go you!!
Sarahx
I love your blog. You had me hooked at the burnt biscuit wreath. It is really inspiring the way you "rock what you've got." Keep up the good work!
Awesome challenge. Can't wait to see what you come up with. I am committed to rock what I got, before I get committed! 🙂
Really cool! I'm so excited to see what you can do..'cause I can tell you're going to do it! I loved your resolutions to love what you have. Thanks for the inspiration!
I just found your blog and I love it! I've read several posts and you crack me up. I firmly believe that limited resources (ie.–money) makes for the most creative design. Your perspective also reminds me to count my blessings everyday! I'm looking forward to following your blog this year.
Good luck — with your talent and drive, you'll succeed!
I'm a new follower. So eager to see how this challenge plays out!
Wow, what an amazing challenge! I went back and read the post about how you started "Choose to Thrive" and I am very inspired by you. I can't wait to see what you come up with!
I'm SOOO glad I found you! Choose to Thrive is exactly what I've been looking for and I can't wait to see what you come up with for your 2011 Challenge!
Many Blessings,
Melissa
Good luck! Sounds like an awesome challenge that'll keep you pretty busy! But you can do it! Best of luck and I can't wait to see what you create!
ooooooo. I'm completely intrigued. I can't wait to watch and maybe get some inspiration for myself! I'll be following you!!
just want to say God Bless You and yours
That's certainly interesting. Renovating your house for free is tricky but certainly possible. I wanna see how you'd do it. Many would be interested to know your techniques.