On December 1st, this blog will not only tell short stories but it will also publish the misgivings of a shopper-wannabee. A shopper who has given up all impulse shopping. A shopper who wants to see if there is really a savings to be made. A shopper who reads about other families saving money... but the families never report the actual savings. And then they spend their savings. One family bought all new camping equipment... for a one-time deal... and now they probably vacation inside the marriott. So much for camping gear rotting away in the garage, basement, or attic!!
Rules:
1. ONLY Shop from a list
2. USE coupons on every shopping trip.
3. Extra food items can only be bought IF they are on sale (Extras as in snacks, or beef that is buy one get two free, or canned food supplies that are actually used on a regular basis)
4. Children's snacks will only be purchased on sale.
5. No shopping for use "SOMEDAY".
6. No extra shopping (extra, in this case, meaning: we already have three rolls of ribbon and two rolls or wrapping paper, no more until it is gone!)
7. Gifts will still be purchased!
8. We will not scrimp on the basics: toilet paper, tissues, detergent, etc. But more effort will be made to hunt down coupons to use!
9. Will not go to any store, boutique, outlet, or mall unless shopping for a SPECIFIC item for a GIFT. Or my children have outgrown a SIZE. Or something that is totally negotiable and deemed absolutely necessary. Imperative.
10. Will not stoop to washing plastic bags or plastic containers if they are a threat to our health and well-being. For example, there is mold growing inside.
11. Will keep track of savings. IF I pass on those cute matching girl pajamas (because each child already owns 8 sets each), then I save $$$. Even IF they were pink and green polka dots and super preppy and totally adorable!
12. Will add more rules as they arise!
Good Luck!
365 days is a long time to 'control' my impulse shopping control.
Upon completion, November 30, 2010, what should we do with the savings?
I guess that is what the next year is for, contemplation and planning on how to spend money well-saved!
Time is ticking, must get to Dillards and Nordstroms... shopping to do before my time is up. hee hee hee.
