Saturday, July 19, 2008

Chrissi B! saving pennies to share ...


For many of us, yesterday was a payday. For many of us who were paid, the money has been spent. It is a Saturday, a day of fun and frivolity and I am not here to be an empty glass kind of girl. I too want you to have fun, so I am sharing a blog find that may offer help and inspiration.

Times for some are uncertain, and now is a great time to save a bit more, stretch a bit more and just take advantage of more money saving tips and trends.

I enjoy the books and tips of Suzy Orman. I think now is a good time to re-think some of our own money strategies.

I find saving a bit like going "green". Small actions, make big differences. Pennies really do make dollars. Rethinking decisions of wants and needs, may eliminate buyers remorse. Let me share with you my own wants vs. needs approach.

When shopping at my favorite big box warehouse, or T store with cutest hubby, I often add things to my cart at will. Ooh cute summer dishes, fun colors, Need! Oh, fun tees to brighten up my wardrobe, Need! Oh I love that small picture frame for the foyer ....You get the idea. After I have added a few of my "Needs" to our cart, along with the real needs of laundry soaps and pet products, I stop, look at each new find and make the decision. Is this a real bargain? Will I regret it? Do I need another frame to dust? Usually, I find my self re-walking through the store and returning these "needs" back to their shelves and racks. I have no buyers remorse, and I probably saved fifty or more dollars each trip. This process drives dh crazy, but he understands, I will not have items of regret to return, donate or gift.

The items that did remain in my cart, passed the test and will come home with us. I will be happy to have them. No regret. No trips back to the store, standing in line to exchange or return. Love it!

MSN offers a money tips each day as well as a blog, that is a favorite of many. Pop on over to Smart Spending, to see if these tips apply to you. I find them a bit harsh, but I appreciate the spirit in which they are given.

Some of us are facing challenging times. Many of us are taking this time to teach our children the differences between their needs and wants. Life lessons are being shared with families.

Perhaps you are lucky, you are fine. Good! Great! Saving a few extra dollars here and there can buffer your donations to your favorite charities, as they will need it.
If you find your pantry full, share with someone in need.The nation's food banks are low. The American Red Cross is in need of extra funds with the flooding and fires of late. You know what to do ....Life lessons each one. Take care.

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