DocCayne- sounds great. I think you can count those 'pre-challenge' commitments out of the challenge. It's better to do a challenge 95% rather than not do it at all :) Yeah, I'm with you, when I sit still I can't think of anything we actually need. But Christmas is ahead and I think this is a great challenge to get ready for Christmas.
Paul Der Krake- I've found Loads of ways on buying great second hand clothes. Thinking Op-shops, second hand shops, ebay. I'm sure if you look hard enough you will find something really cool to suit you. Honestly, this is a great way to buy clothes, because only the best clothes make it to the op shop. That is, those that have been made so well that they last the test of time. Particularly if you need a whole seasons wardrobe, I'd be looking into this. Check it out. I'm happy to help you with op shop suggestions and tips if you like to make the process easier.
A couple of years ago, a very pregnant me and my hubby decided to go to the spring horse races. We choose our clobber from an op shop, and loved the result. Spending around $20 all up, we had our outfits and looked very cool. Another benefit is that it isn't like those "where's wally" books when you can see other people dressed the same as you. You almost always find something unique.
inthebiz- What a great challenge to prepare for a baby :) Yes, car seats can be an issue. However, it really does depend on who is selling. My baby-toddler seat is practically as good as when I brought it, has had no accidents and I still have all the books/paperwork for it. It's now almost 6years old. However, if I have a third bubba, I won't be rushing out for a new seat. If you look, you will probably find some great baby bargains. Second hand IS the way to go with baby gear. So exciting!!!! Yes, I'm clucky. A few suggestions on why second hand is a good idea for a new bub;
Cot- They start climbing out of it before they can walk, this is dangerous. Moved to a bed by 18months tops in our house. I wouldn't spend $1k on a bedroom suite for myself, let alone if I was going to 'grow' out of it in 18months.
Pram- Ditched the big pram that took up all the boot space leaving groceries to be stashed between children. By around 8mths of age, I found it easier to have an umbrella stroller and I carried my babies in a stretchy wrap/baby carrier. They aren't worth hundreds for such a short space of time.
Clothes- Simple is good. Stretchy suits. Yes, nice to have new but by bub #2 I learned that it was easier to reuse what I had for bub#1 just simply because they are already washed ready to go. This meant they didn't smell like that horrid chemical they put on clothes to make sure they don't grow mold. Lazy I know... but far easier. They grow out of clothes every 2- 3 months.
Just a few examples and reasoning of why I think second hand is actually better.
