.jpg)
Happy Thursday. I made it through hump day and just two work days to go. It is a rough week, but I feel I mentally prepared, so maneuvering through without too much pain. Of course the stress is caused by others not making decisions, not understanding the ripple effect that their delays cause. But I'm not here to think work, that's in an hour, but to think about thriftyness or lack of. Here's a few ways we conserved time, resources, or money.
- Made use of for meals or froze all leftovers
- Made a huge pot of vegan bean soup, some to freeze, some for daughter, and some for Tuesday supper. This used up of carrots, the other half of a bag of navy beans, and some pepper/ onion blend bought back in September for a never done DT challenge. I added a bit of Better than Bullion to the broth and that upped the flavor a lot since I didn't have celery.
- Still trying to watch surplus groceries and shop only for loss leaders or needed items. While we spent quite a bit for Thanksgiving and family dinner sides, we didn't do any large shop, encouraging using up items at home. This went for non food items too. My list of needed items is growing though, including shampoo, conditioner, and dish washing liquid.
- Low cost entertainment was $15 Bingo, at home watched movies, walks with dogs, and coffee and conversation in my own home with my daughter. We even used a $13 off dining card for my birthday lunch out.
- Shoveled driveway, but got much appreciated help from neighbor. His wife had got home early and shoveled theirs. It was a gift!
- Stacked deals both Friday and Monday for Christmas gifts. Who knows what I really saved as there are mark ups and false savings, but I was happy with the quality and prices paid. I have $45 in Kohl's cash to use. Other lingering Christmas items will all be locally sourced.
- Used past winning gift cards and we placed 2nd last night, winning another, for Trivia. I'll be buying a few filler gifts there as we want to support the Brewery, but it sure is nice to get a free night out occasionally.
- DH put in for cash back rewards from the credit card. It will help towards Christmas
- Took care of lingering bills, DD2's budget ( helping her manage while out of Country), and managed to hit our savings target. Now, I want nothing to linger into January so all Christmas shopping on credit card must be done by December 9.
I feel like this should be doable. Gifts for my kids will be light, leaning more towards cash as it's more useful at this time. I need to send a check to his brother for our share of MIL's main gift. These and a few other lingering things, plus specific food items, will be done this weekend and coming week. I want to tuck a bit of the monthly budget away for fun things the week between Christmas and New Years since we all are off work. Not the thriftiest week, but considering it was a holiday weekend, not too bad. How did you save or conserve your resources?
You say it's "not the thriftiest week" but it sounds to me like you did pretty well, particularly since this is an expensive time of year!
ReplyDeleteMostly the same - not wasting food. I still shopped and spent a lot.
DeleteI was able to take advantage of a deal a local gas station was running, 88 gasoline for 1.99 a gallon. It runs just fine in my jeep but is not good for all vehicles. Got a mystery check for some class action settlement from who knows what. Took DD to return a few impulse purchases she decided she didn’t need. Used all of our traditional decorations instead of buying anything new, though I did have to replace an extension cord. Got a Gym Shark tank second hand for a great price for DD for Christmas. Every little bit helps :) JoAnn
ReplyDeleteReturning impulse purchases is definitely a win. I rarely buy new decorations as I seem to get gifted a few new things with my November birthday. I did but a tea towel with my sister's.
DeleteWe had a pretty good week as well. Used up lots & lots of leftovers, made the most of things we had on hand. I've done so much better this year with not buying myself or others random things during all of the "sales". I've stuck to the very small list. We will likely pick up the last couple of gifts tomorrow.
ReplyDeleteI also sold two night stands for $150, and figured out I may be eligible for some additional work reimbursement. Still waiting on final approval for that, but it would be great to have.
I'm getting a little frustrated that my boss hasn't done an approval for expenses from September and October. It's mileage and parking and over $200. Not a fortune but would help this time of year as we want to top off a few donations.
DeleteI agree with your comment about mark ups and false savings. I have been keeping my eye on a bike that has previously been priced at $1200 for the last two months. Amazingly over the weekend the price increased to $2200, and it was advertised as 50% off for $1100. I’m not sure it’s false advertising or good marketing. Megan
ReplyDeleteIt's ridiculous. They have to hold the higher price like 30 days or some time frame, then can say they slashed the price.
DeleteWell that definitely wasn’t the case in this situation, the bike is back priced at $1200. When I very politely enquired the salesman told me I should have bought it and saved myself the hundred. I think I will go elsewhere with my money.
DeleteI think stores like Kohls does a lot of false savings. The long johns that my youngest wears under her work clothes I can pick up at TJ MAXX and Ross for $10.00. Kohls had them advertised for 1/2 off and they were $38.00 a piece so $19.00 on their super not sale.
ReplyDeleteKohl's us a big offender of the false savings. I do research costs before their layered savings for just what you shared.
DeleteI signed up for a healthcare plan that seems to be putting $150 in my pocket to spend each month. I have avoided these healthcare plans for 14 years, but this one may be worth it. That was my biggie even though I am on thrift mode each and every day.
ReplyDeleteI hope that savings pans out for you. $150 every month is great.
Delete