More cutting back
A Frugalista Files fan sent this link about Americans cutting back on the Starbucks runs. You readers know how I’ve cut back on life’s luxuries. How have you cut back?
Natalie
2 Responses to More cutting back
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I’m cheap as hell Nat and you know this. Some of the things I do to save:
I eat at home 95% of the time. I buy in bulk from Costco and freeze everything. When I do eat out, I let others pay for it, or I go someplace cheap. I like to drink-so I found a bar that basically charges half price for drinks/appetizers. a night that would cost me $60 elsewhere ends up costing me $20.
I work from home-which pretty much eliminates my need to drive. When I have to go into the city, I go after six so I can park on the street for free. If I have to go in during the day, I take the train. I found a cheap gas station (cheap being relative) and I only fill up there once a month.
My Starbucks runs are held in check only to winter months, where I will allow myself a Caramel Apple Cider once a week.
I got rid of my expensive flashy blackberry (a frivolous purchase) and am going back to old faithful (I got it free). This will make $60 for me, since I got the flashy berry on a hookup, which I will put toward my bill.
I changed my grooming schedule. I can’t give up getting my nails and eyebrows done because I have mental issues, so I go during “happy hour” and save $6 on a manicure and pedicure. I don’t get french anymore and save another $6. I still go every week, but I see about $40 in savings a month.
I get my eyebrows done during their “happy hour” and spend $3 instead of $5 every two weeks.
Also, I don’t pay for parties. Every now and again I will splurge and spend the $10 to go to APT on a Wednesday, but for the most part I prefer to go to invite only/open bar events.
I shop the sale rack exclusively, and I am a big fan of sites like Overstock and Ebay. I got a gorgeous fox fur jacket for $300. Saw one that wasn’t as nice in Bloomingdales for $1000. I win.
I do my own hair. I was spending upwards of $150 a month to get it done, not I spend about $20 every two months to buy shampoo and setting lotion.
I don’t wear my contacts every day so I have to replace them less often. I have had new lenses put in the same frames since 2003. Some of this might help others. Glad you’re doing so well.
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I love your blog! Can I be your friend? Man, we are too far apart! Plus, I bet my oldest daughter is your age. Ha.
Where I work I can put money in a medical/flexible plan before taxes. The “savings account” can only be spent on medical, dental, etc. But with a family that is so easy to do and it saves paying tax on that money. Works well for us.
Years ago I gave up on fashion. It comes from growing up in the hippy years. I live rurally and clothes just don’t mean as much here. And i shop sale racks only.
Terita Murphy