As I do each year, I'm starting 2020 with a fresh slate and full of self promises about doing better with my time, my resources, and my money. I thought I'd refresh my Thrifty Thursday as well to align with these three areas and perhaps stay a bit better focused. I may not always have five things, and some weeks there might be better opportunities for thrift and might add even more. I also want to be more accountable to waste, so will recap for my own purposes. Week one, and how did I start?
Time
- Used online vet to help get a preliminary diagnosis for pup. The remedies provided seemed to have done the trick and he is back to his old self for the most part. This was both a time and money as I would have needed to take time off work and would have had an office bill.
- I was prepared to drive DD2 back, but I pushed her out of her comfort zone to find an alternative car pool as her original one was going back very early and had added another person. Another time/cost savings.
Resources
- I salvaged a pair of warm tights that had a run/fraying to use only under a pair of tall boots. It was cold yesterday and they worked well.
- I brought the last of my cookie truffles and Chex Mix for Trivia. Both went over well, and now I won't be nibbling any longer and I didn't throw out.
- We bought DD2 a Spotify subscription as one of her gifts. It came with a free Hulu account (though with commercials), so have access to another streaming service. We need to decide if we are going to pitch our Direct TV.
Money
- Saved vet bill office visit by using on-line.
- Cashed in points and have over 3,000 towards the next $5.00 Target card for Microsoft Rewards. That makes $20 I've earned since fall.
- Rechecked balances on old gift cards and used some still from last spring for a Starbucks for my daughter and I on a New Years day little outing.
- I bought four duo packs of Kiss shaped lip balm. I could care less what shapes they are but at 90% off and winter cold that is horrible for chapped lips, it was a definite win.
- 8 lip balms for $2.00.
Waste/Spend Thrift
- I was planning on going to get a Take and Bake Pizza, but ended up with Dominos, $21, as I wanted a hot sandwich, DD2 was in pasta mood, and DH wasn't really feeling anything in particular. It was not worth what we spent, even using the $5.99 for two or more deal. DH couldn't eat it as he is getting used to no salt, so had a little pizza, a little pasta, and fruit.
- With final packing and such, I didn't plan breakfast/lunch for Tuesday so ended up getting a late morning breakfast combo at Hardees, for nealry $7. It wasn't worth the money for how I felt after.
I am going to start next weeks post today so I can remember things as they come. I am sure there is more in each area, but this is what comes to mind. How are you all doing on any thrifty goals? Does this format make sense to you? I'm open to revamping.
I have an open post I use each week, and file any frugal wins in there as soon as it happens. It helps me keep mental track, so I'm not attempting to remember it all at once at the end of the week.
ReplyDeleteWe usually don't have much progress during the work week. This week, I was able to book flights for my parents over the kids spring break using miles. It's cheaper than anything else we can do with the kids, and everyone loves it.
I think I'll be more accountable as well. The Hulu thing though-I am worried I may binge watch too much so will need to make sure that is not a time suck.
DeleteI think your format is just fine!
ReplyDeleteNo thrift goals per se here, just more of not spending. In fact, we have a sick cat, so $252 yesterday, and more today after he spends the day getting i.v. fluids. (Hopefully it's just a sinus infection, but the dehydration is the real problem at this point.)
In any event, my eldest received a pair of nice slippers for Christmas, but would really enjoy a size larger. I asked him if he'd like me to order them, and he said he couldn't justify the money. As he has a birthday coming up, I ordered them anyway, and will hand these to his younger brother or father. His comment though--that was a win!
I take it you couldn't return or exchange the slippers.As long as they get used, that's a good win.
DeleteI think it is fine. Anything you do or any ideas are always a help to the rest of us.
ReplyDeleteCool-I will proceed as such.
DeleteThe format is great. I like how you put the dog stuff in two areas. I have done that--adding to a post each day and posted it later.
ReplyDeleteIt was the biggest time and money savings, so pup deserved two spots.
DeleteI like the format as well, helps me to think along those same lines
ReplyDeleteI appreciate the feedback. I hope for longer lists.
Deletehey thansk for sharing over at Frugal Friday!
ReplyDelete