One of the frugal bloggers I most admire is Meredith at Like Merchant Ships. Her cheerful frugality is an inspiration every day, but especially during those times when I feel like frugal living is more of a burden than a blessing. Her creativity and positive outlook are a great example for all of us who want to live well and spend less.Unfortunately, I'm not always as upbeat and inspired as Meredith. Sometimes being frugal just makes me want to scream! I can usually improve my negative mood by reading other bloggers' posts on the topic of cheerful frugality, or reflecting on all the benefits Donnie and I have reaped from a frugal lifestyle. Sometimes, though, I still walk away feeling glum. Then I know it's time for a little splurge.
I've listed some of my favorite ways to treat yourself without breaking the bank below. Please share your own favorite frugal splurges as well!
- Get takeout. Some fast food places, such as Taco Bell and Wendy's, feature menu items that cost as little as seventy-nine cents. Throw in a couple coupons, and you can feed your entire family for relatively little money. If you prepare most of your meals from scratch, the break from cooking and the tasty, unhealthy food will be a welcome change of pace!
- Waste some ECBs. Spend a few of your CVS Extra Bucks on an item you don't usually buy, even if you won't earn any ECBs back. For me, this usually means a Take 5 bar or some Burt's Bees lip balm. I don't lose much ground in the CVS game, but I feel almost decadent buying something that doesn't yield any return!
- Take a stay-cation. Spend a long weekend enjoying your home and local community. Catch up on books you've been meaning to read, or movies you've been wanting to watch. Cook or bake your favorite elaborate recipe. Take a long walk in the local park, or go for a scenic drive around town. Visit the zoo, the museum, or an inexpensive sporting event. You'll feel refreshed and relaxed without ever leaving town!
What are your favorite frugal splurges?
4 comments:
I keep flavored and gourmet coffees in the cabinet for a "splurge" at home. When I need a pick-me-up, I just go to my own kitchen and make a great cup of mocha. I usually enjoy it while sitting down with a show on HGTV.
Magazines I don't normally buy are also a fun, cheap splurge for me. Actual wondow-shopping is dangerous for me, because I'll usually find a little something to buy since it's so easy! If I buy a $4 fashion magazine that's not part of my usual rotation, I can get my "window-shopping" in without being near the actual store and the temptation to buy. Plus, I usually get to read some interesting articles! To make this an even cheaper "spluge," you could always go read the magazine at the library for free.
Great post! I think everyone has these moments.
Favorite frugal splurges: buying a new outfit from the thrift store, or something I *really* don't need like a secondhand set of placemats.
I also like to go to expensive gift shops or department stores, study the merchandise, and come home feeling great about what I've been able to buy at yard sales!
Nothing like a little price comparison to make you feel like you're doing the smart thing!
I guess mine are my favourite chocolate truffles (which were my birthday present this year!), a punnet of strawberries or a takeout. I tend to spend more money treating the children than myself.
I like to window shop at high end design stores. Good design always perks me up and gets my creative wheels spinning.
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