Just your friendly, neighborhood, geek who loves to crochet.

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Joined 2 years ago
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Cake day: June 12th, 2023

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  • You say they should have the same access to our market that we have to theirs. The problem with this argument is that their economy and production capabilities are 10x what ours are. If we open up to the same degree, they will crush our tiny market by just flooding it easily. You can’t have “equal” access when one economy is 10x the size of the other. We are not equal economies. Yes Canada punches above its weight, but not to the same level as the US. This is why we need to be careful to not let them just flood us. Check the difference between equal vs equitable.









  • Look for local craft or art shows. This can help you find local crafters that make some common items like socks, soaps, etc. Hand-knitted socks are the best.

    Other than that, for more commercial things, watch labeling (as you already are), go to farmer’s markets, choose local grocer cooperatives (they’re more likely to carry locally produced goods), etc.





  • My current rent: $1600 (no utilities included).
    Tenant insurance: $300 (per year!).
    Tenant total: $1625 per month.

    Mortgage calculation: $1863 per month for a $300,000 mortgage with a 10% down payment.
    Property tax: ~$300 per month.
    House insurance: ~$150 per month.
    Mortgage total: $2313 per month.

    And that is not even including the costs of repairs on the house. In my city a $300,000 house will be in need of some major repairs.

    I’d say I’m doing pretty good. I am saving that extra $700 per month myself and am in a lot better of a position than if I was paying that mortgage.