Go a whole month only buying food and other necessities

I’ve been able to stay out of the stores for the most part – and I’m going in with a strict list when I absolutely must go grocery shopping.

I saw a tip somewhere to keep a wish list on the fridge. When you have the urge to buy something put it on the list and let it sit there for (however long you decide). Usually you will see it wasn’t really necessary and those impulse purchases will be cut dramatically. I’m doing that this month = I’m seeing that I really don’t need that cookbook (got it from the library) and I can wait a few weeks to get things I think I really need.

I realize that every time I step into a store I end up buying more things than I planned – I’m going to try and stay out of stores as much as possible in February. I’ve been stocking up my pantry this month – when I buy something I use often, I’ve been buying multiples (especially if they are on sale). The freezer is getting restocked too. I hope to only need to buy milk, bread & fresh produce next month.

in the mindful consumption mode, until my credit card debt is paid off. I didn’t use the plastic for anything but gasoline this month = yay!

Congrats team on a job well done. Thanks to all for the support.

:( Thankfully this trip was already paid for, but…. the gift shop!! ARRRRGH. Mommy can’t I have a souvenir??? I was able to steer the youngest to some low priced items that might last more than an afternoon, and flat out told the daughter she really didn’t need a $30 hoodie right now. They were satisfied with some cool posters of space for their rooms and a few cheapo treasures for their various collections.

do not bring a (perpetually) hungry 15 year old boy with you to the grocery store while attempting this goal. ;)

Thankfully I got away rather easy – the only extra was a bottle of hershey’s syrup for making milkshakes (and to a 15 yo that IS a necessity!)

I was worried, stepping foot into the big box warehouse club this afternoon. But I clutched my list tight and walked really fast by the movies, books & cds – usual weaknesses for me. I got food, laundry & dishwasher detergent. The only thing not on my list that I bought (& consider a necessity) was Turbo Tax.

Yay me! Success.

and just had to add it to mine. What a perfect start for a year of getting our finances back in control and on the path to being debt free. May I be a part of this team? Pretty please with sugar on it?