This past week, I learned about something called "The Compact." It started as a San Francisco group devoted to buying nothing new other than Food, toiletries and medicine. It is acceptable to buy used and to borrow or barter. This got me thinking. I have long been an advocate of voluntary simplicity, loved Janet Luhr's book, Simple Living, and have looked for many ways in my own life to cut costs and to be more conscious in how I choose to spend money. And while a certain part of me heaves a sigh of relief about no trips out to shop for a year, or for life as some of these members imply, there is part of me that balks at this method. This is not only because I enjoy finding new things and have recently discovered a new passion for earrings, it is also because when I do choose to spend money, I relish the opportunity to support those I purchase from. A good example is my love of Etsy, a site where designers and artists can sell their goods directly to the consumer. I have bought jewelry, clothes, art and gifts from this site and have loved the contacts and connections buying from these amazing people have created. So how to embrace simplicity while still enjoying the process of shopping with purpose? I think this is a challenge we each must face individually. What is your philosophy around spending? Has it changed in the last year? How do you decide who you would like to support with your money. Please share in the comments below!