Back from the brake/brink

I am behind in sharing the ups and downs of retail abstinance, for those of you who have been awaiting my next posting with braided(ha!) breath here is a short resumé, pictures to follow later this week.

Successes:
1.I bought no gifts per sae. I did buy wool,or acrylic to be specific (for my Spendidly-Vegan sister), and thread for a skirt (For my Spendidly-Quirky Mom).
2. Many of the supplies i used were either used or recycled. I found fabric for my mom's skirt at my favourite boutique: Value Village. I recieved amy guys for a melted bowl (for my Spendidly-Pregant sister) from Full Circle and people I work with.
3. had a photo printed (for my Spendidly-Genuine Dad). Frame was preloved, and I think this should count as "from Scratch" as i took the picture.
4. hosted a new years Stay in of fondue, sauna and friends. made an amazing cheese & champagne fondue, which we ate with bread from the bakery down the street. Tried to by fruit and veg from tiny groceries, turns out they close early newyears eve. settled for big store organics.

Possible Dalliances... Hey i Never said I was perfect!
1. Went out for dinner with my parents in Edmonton at my suggestion. did eat at a non chain. And it did reduce driving significantly, by staying down town before i went to a play, and it was en route from the airport, and close to where my mom works... yah. a cheat. DAMN FINE spring roll and kim chee!

2. Bought Baby duck for New years, and a box of red wine.

3. went out for drinks with friends on birthday. I don;t think tis is really cheating... the event has been partially extended to this friday as some peeps were out of town last weekend.