Modern-day Cheapskates

After reading this article, I thought of my budget and how I try to monitor my spending. I certainly do not have a social life that empties my wallet. Heck, just traveling 80 miles round trip to work is enough to make me cry at the end of the day!

These are things I do as a practicing cheapskate:

* Visit the library often to get my literary fix.
* Enjoy creating home-made goodies that are far less pricier than bistro menu items.
* Have learned the value of Redbox (also library) rather than the box office ;we're talking big $$ these days.

* I print or e-mail my own photos to family & friends. Love the quality, but I have yet to take a professional caliber photo worthy of the $

* Keep the technology simple & up to date as possible. Seeking bargains, my laptop was a floor model, software discounts through graduate school program.

* Coupons, use them, it is surprising how much $ you save in a month. Be smart about it though.

* I love candlelight. I use candleight in the evening to save energy, make the house smell good & relax in the aroma that surrounds me.



After reading this article, I want to challenge myself, yet not put a burden on others to cover the check. As much as the economy is in a slump, I don't feel the need to spend the last of my savings on holiday gifts. I think that handmade gifts is the route I will be taking this year. I've tacked up many ideas on my inspiration board in my home office that I have yet to explore. I still think handmade gifts can be functional, not just that kitschy crap that ends up in garage sales in the spring. Not sure what the end result is going to look, but it will be worth trying!
Watch this space ...

Improvement Plan

Don't spend your precious time asking "Why isn't the world a better place?" It will only be time wasted. The question to ask is "How can I make it better?" To that there is an answer.

a quote from Leo Buscaglia. I came across a journal I kept in high school that had quotes from him jotted in the margins.(I guess a blog is a new way of journaling?!)

The world has changed so much in my lifetime (some for the good, sometimes not). I find it hard to comprehend what people who are much older than I, are feeling in this moment. History has unfolded right before us! This planet has gone through quite a transformation this week. I saw an article in the WSJ with a photo of a newspaper headline in Italy that read "Il Mondo Cambria" (the world changes). I am energized by the changes, yet cautiously optimistic that those who hold different views will keep their minds & heart open for the new leadership.

Closer to home, I have recently tried to brighten the world through my own actions. Within the past 2 weeks, I have brought magazines to the senior supported living complex, brought my neighbors paper to their doorstep to avoid going out in the cold air, given anonymous gift cards to brighten someones day, and helped a parent load their car with groceries so they could get their child who was in major meltdown mode into their car seat. Today, I visited a gallery exhibit opening of my grade school gym teacher. He was thrilled that I still remembered him. He made my world brighter many years ago just by being the kind, talented soul that he is (and I told him that!)

Although the movie "Pay It Forward" was kinda goofy, the concept of doing a good deed in hopes that it will be passed on is heart-warming. This time of year is popular for people to go good Samaritan work by helping in a food pantry, donating coats and the cash donations. The act of giving feels rewarding enough to feel the energy year round. Try it, you'll like it!