If we’re going to dedicate this much of our societal consciousness to the glorification of material goods, let’s go the whole hog.
Christmas earworm of the day: Weird Al
It’s a week until Christmas, I have one day of work left, so it’s probably about time to break out the holiday tunes.
I’ve played a lot of Fallout 4 this year (and it only came out in November …) so Weird Al’s classic tune about a Yuletide nuclear apocalypse seems fitting.
10 things to spend your money on instead of INCITE
Cameron Slater has a premium monthly newsletter out. Apparently it’s … not good.
So why pay $35 a month for a collection of hackneyed rightwing thinkpieces? You could spend about that much – or less! on something like:
A Christmas piglet – $40
Oxfam will provide a family in Papua New Guinea with a piglet to raise for breeding and sale, providing their community with a good income.
The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim on Steam – $23.99
After 224 hours of gameplay I’m still going back for more. For less than an additional month’s subscription to INCITE – you could get the Legendary Edition for $47.99. Or if postapocalyptic black humour is more your thing, the Fallout 3: Game of the Year edition is only $23.99 itself.
Six lunches for Kiwi kids in need – $30
Through Eat My Lunch’s “Give Two” programme.
This adorable sulky Harley Quinn plush – $19.99 plus shipping
Look at her little pouty face!
One social work or support session for a client at Wellington Rape Crisis – $25
Every bit makes a huge difference to survivors of sexual violence.
One kilogram of green apple flavoured jelly beans – $29.95 plus shipping
Nom.
A Trade Aid monkey toy box – $34.99
MONKEY!
This really pretty tui-patterned wallet – $35 plus shipping
From The Sewphist.
A Christchurch roadcone t-shirt – $40 plus shipping
Fair trade, organic cotton, etc.
A wooden toy coffee maker – $36 plus shipping
Brand recommended by Emily and the amazing Eddie – perfect for the budding Wellington Twitterati in your family.
Disclaimer: some of these items are produced by buddies of mine; I am involved in some of these organisations. Your money, do what you like with it – even if that means subscribing to INCITE.
Stephanie Rodgers 