It's Saturday and that means it's time to share the great deals we've gotten this past week and other ways we've saved.
I saved money by having a Baking Day to stock up the freezer and by shopping mark-downs at Dillons. (If you missed those posts you can see them here, here, here, here, and here.) Also, I was struck very profoundly this week with another ongoing way I save a lot of money each year–by not going shopping very often!
You see, yesterday I went to replace my one and only pair of black boots. I've worn these same boots almost every day during the Fall/Winter months for the last three years. To say I've gotten the use out of them would be an understatement! (Being the minimalist I am, I only have two pairs of shoes for the cooler months–classic, versatile black boots and tennis shoes.)
My husband and I opted to go to the mall to look for new boots since we figured we'd have more of a selection of stores carrying decent-quality boots. I honestly can't remember the last time I went to the mall to shop and as soon as I'd been in there for a little while I knew exactly why I try to avoid going there.
Why? Because it made me discontent. When I stay out of stores bombarding me with the latest and greatest in things I "must have", my small little wardrobe is plenty enough for me. In fact, I find it very simplifying to only have a few tops and a few bottoms that I can mix and match with a few pieces of jewelry and a few pair of shoes.
But not yesterday. As we walked in and out of stores, I began to feel the "need" to expand my wardrobe, update my styles, and–you guessed it–buy more stuff. Stuff I've lived happily without for years and stuff I don't need.
While I did get the perfect pair of boots at a great price, I left the mall feeling like I'd not purchased enough–like I would have been much more satisfied if I'd have also purchased those cute tops I saw or bought an additional pair of shoes.
And then it hit me: this is so silly! None of that stuff is going to make me any happier or more content. In fact, probably the more money I'd spend in there, the more I'd feel the need to spend.
Compared to many, my wardrobe might be small. I might not have all the latest styles or name brands, but I'm content with it and it serves my needs. And having only a few items of clothing–all of which I like– makes it so easy for me to choose what to wear in the morning. It saves me so much time and effort (and money, too!) to keep it simple.
While I still think I have a long way to go in learning to be truly content, I do think that staying out of the mall as much as is possible is a huge help. And next time I need new boots (which hopefully won't be for another three years!), I think I'll skip the mall and go straight to a shoe store.
Do you find that shopping less or avoiding certain stores or shopping malls helps you be more content with what you already have? I'd love to hear your thoughts!
Those are a few ways we saved money this week. How'd you do this week? Post about the deals and
bargains you were able to snag this week or other ways you saved money
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I know what you mean! I am trying to plan a VERY frugal, VERY short notice wedding. I have a friend that is telling me that I CAN’T possibly use PAPER plates…even though they are sooooo much pretty than the clear plastic ones she is suggesting! I have 8 weeks…..and I’m sure I’m going to have to hide from this woman or make her upset…..lol. I just felt like I was going to have a tacky wedding for my daughter if I didn’t listen to her…sheesh….
i love your new boots! a few years ago i got a pair of brown aerosole boots on clearance at famous footwear, and they are seriously my favorite pair of winter shoes – so comfortable (and my feet ALWAYS hurt!) and they have held up very, very well, too. And thanks so much for this post. Sometimes I forget that just because I have the money to buy what I “want” doesn’t mean I need it.
Since you hate the mall, have you tried shoe shopping online? Several places have free shipping, no taxes, and free return shipping so you really have nothing to lose. I have used http://www.shoebuy.com. Some of those places will say they have the lowest guaranteed price.
You are right!! Staying home is cheaper!! Too bad we cannot do ALL our shopping via the internet and phone!!
I have been happy to find however, that some food items we use are available at Amazon.com…for a more reasonable price than we can get them here…you just need to purchase at least $25 worth and the shipping is FREE!! That is one way I save gas, time and money. They seem to continue adding to their selection. They are pretty quick to get it here too, within a week or less usually.
I avoid the mall also b/c of the temptation to spend money. And, it also makes me discontent with what I have. I do however think we moms that work so hard for our families to save money and provide for our kids first, do deserve something nice and new and up to date every once in awhile. I have clothes that I have worn for 8 years at least!
There is a point that you can go overboard however, we all have things that we do truly need and shouldn’t feel guilty about getting ourselves.
I have to say that I love to shop and use to love the mall. As I had children I fell out of love with the mall. I went, fo rthe first time in many years, just the other day. I didn’t even like the stuff there. It just seemed so predictable. I love thrift stores. I have way too many clothes but not many people realize that I pay next to nothing for them. Have someone you know that has good taste go to a thrift store with you (go when they are having a sale for more bang for your buck) and it’s the best thing EVER!!!
P.S. – I am having a HUGE contest on my blog for the entire month of November:
http://realworldmartha.wordpress.com/2008/11/01/tis-better-to-give-than-to-receiveright/
Thank you SO much for this post. It was so right on with what is going on in my life. Although this doesn’t relate DIRECTLY to me with clothes, I found that I get discontent regarding the kids’ “stuff.” I actually have their Christmas gifts already…got them when I saw great deals/clearance items throughout the year. HOWEVER, when I went shopping recently, I was just BOMBARDED with images of toys, toys, toys. I found myself thinking about the cool toys that I just “NEEDED” to get for my four-year old. Needless to say, I didn’t buy any of them…and will try to avoid toy sections from now until AFTER Christmas. How many toys does a kid need ANYWAY?
Thanks for this post. Very insightful, and so true! People are surprised when I tell them I don’t like window shopping, and I never had words to express why, but now I do! This is exactly it! Thanks!
Do you know of anywhere that has a compiled list of all the places offering something for free on election day? I know about starbucks, crispy kreme, etc.
I get that way just going to thrift stores! LOL!
I haven’t shopped in a mall for years. Business must be bad. I went a couple of months ago to make a return to Sears. I had foolishly allowed them to sign me up for a credit card because DH needed some jeans right quick, and it gave me $15 off. I ended up returning the jeans and canceling the card. Well, after returning them, I took a hike through the mall and was set upon by a photographer from the portrait place, offering a free 11x if I let them take pictures of the baby. Of course, all the pictures were adorable, and of course, I wanted to buy them all, but with heroic sales resistance (and also because I couldn’t afford it anyway), I left with only the freebie. LOL! It’s awful cute.
After that, I was set upon by one of those cart salesman, who lathered me with Israeli hand lotion and buffed my nails. I practiced sales resistance there, too.
Recently, I had to go to Sears to get some pellets for our water softener. I didn’t take any detours through the mall in that case.
I came back today to read the other comments. I just contemplated buying those same boots. Are they comfortable?
I do have another wardrobe question for you. What do you keep on hand for dressier events. My husband’s job has a semi-formal event every year. Just curious. Thanks.
The mall doesn’t tempt me, because everything there is so expensive I would never even consider it. Well, take that back. I’m always tempted by the food court. My real temptation is collecting cheap junk, even sometimes stuff I don’t really like. I had to decide to not go to HomeGoods for the next few years – such a fabulous, inexpensive store with beautiful things! But I don’t need any of it right now! Also, I can’t go garage-saling alone, I have to have an accountability buddy along to ask, “Do you need that?” or else I will come home with so much junk just because it was cheap. The thrift store is dangerous too, but it’s dirty and the lighting is depressing so I can usually talk myself out of things there. I buy almost all of my clothes there. I can’t believe the prices they charge for flimsy pieces of clothing in regular clothing stores!
Hmmm…When I had my first kid almost 3 years ago, I had been overweight beforehand and getting pregnant put my hormones and such back in whack and I lost about 20 pounds post baby. Buying a new wardrobe really helped my confidence and helped me feel less frumpy. Having spit up on a designer top is easier to stomach when you know you don’t look bad! ;oD Seriously, a new wardrobe really does boost my confidence (the same as a new haircut, brushed teeth – this is a feat for me with three kids under 3!, a shower, etc.) but true contentment and happiness comes from within. Nothing can make that happen but YOURSELF. For some it’s faith in God, some a new wardrobe, some botox. I personally find contentment in my faith in God and know that that is the most important thing in life. Vanity of vanities…clothes are only to cover our bodies. We can’t take them with us!
I had that same feeling for years and finally quit going to the mall. There are a few exceptions to that but over time the feeling has gotten better even when I do go. You expressed it so well..
Sherrie
I bought $1,200 worth of Michelin tires for my Corvette. Had a coupon worth $60 with the receipt. Check finally arrived.
I have been reading your blog for a few weeks now, and I really like it. Thanks for always posting realistic tips.
I am a single mother and my budget is tight. God has always provided though!
I have found myself hating shopping too. For the exact same reasons everyone else has posted.
This year I have challenged myself to find what I need at a thrift store or garage sale first before I even think about buying it brand new. I am usually pretty successful.
I have also found if you ask God for something, He usually delivers-pretty quickly if you truly need it.
Two weeks ago, I tried making my own bread for the first time. I LOVE it; the taste doesn’t compare to store bought. And the price! I can bake three loaves for the about half the cost of “good” store bought bread.
Now I wonder why I was so afraid to make it myself before.
(Okay, I used a breadmaker for the hard part, and baked it in the oven. BUT, I received it for a gift years ago, and have bad shoulders, so hand kneading is out.)
I have also found buying fresh produce and shopping the perimeter of the grocery store, we eat well, for a lot less than preservative/filler laden foods that has no nutritional value. I bake our own cookies, cakes etc. (and now breads!) and I always make a list before I go to the store. I try to stick to the list only, unless it is truly a great deal-then I stock up. I usually use coupons, but only on items I know I normally buy.
Recently, I have started making my own Laundry Detergent as well. I use that, along with vinegar for softening and line dry outside when weather permits.
Love the boots you picked out too! For shoes, Other than the one pair of black “dressy” pumps, I usually wear Doc Martens. My feet hurt if I wear anything else.
They are a great investment, because they wear like iron. They are also very comfy, but can be a tad “ugly” or plain in appearance. I don’t care, I figure life is too short to have sore feet.
I usually buy mine on Ebay. I have purchased four pairs at 70-80% off for myself and daughter. They had been worn once or twice. Usually the seller didn’t care for them, or in one case they were brand new!
So don’t overlook Ebay for deals!
I love your webpage! A friend shared the link and now I’m addicted! Thanks a bunch!
Thanks for posting at such a timely hour. “We” can be so wasteful…I intentionally do not go shopping. If I do it is a must have…a bra or panties. I work out of the home, used to be full time til my boss cut my hours a few weeks ago. So I wear the same 3 pair of jeans all week long. I was on Weight Watchers and lost 65 pounds and have kept it off for 3 years now. So I have the same 3 pair of jeans I had then. I do fluctuate a bit, but I keep an eye on my weight. I believe now that is key to keeping me in just a few clothes rather than many different sizes. I shop the occasional thrift store when needed. I also have a blue jean skirt, that is too big, and needs to be replaced. I have a black skirt and 1 pair of black slacks. I have several blouses I wear with those items. That is it. ANd that is okay with me.
Now bras, that is a different story…I badly need a new bra. That is something I have had a hard time since losing weight.
I have learned through 16 years of marriage and seeing my mom and dad throughout their marriage to just be content. It is hard sometimes, I won’t lie. But, to me, I’d rather feed us well and enjoy the occasional day with them. DH and I are very simple. He is happy to get a “new” pair of jeans from the thrift store from time to time. It is all about being happy and satisfied with what God has given you, isn’t that what we tell our kids all the time too…:)
It helps me to not feel that way, because not much fits me from stores that I like. I have a different size than most sores, sort inbetween a girls size 14 and a woman’s 0-2, which almost no one carries. So, if I buy clothes I generally feel bad as I do not buy things very often.
As far as your boots, did you find some? I have been looking for a nice pair….
how long do expect they usually last? I found one, but it was $44 and I was not sure if I could expect them to last long enough to make that worth it.
I totally agree about staying out of the mall. It’s getting even harder as we head into the holiday season. Thanks so much for all the great info. you share.
AMEN, sister. I have a slightly different outlook on this because I like to dress fashionably and having a good wardrobe is important to me, but even considering that, I don’t spend a lot of money, and I STAY OUT OF THE MALL. Things that have worked for me, as I try to dress fashionably and still stay frugal:
1. Spend time with your wardrobe and with your clothes. Try everything on. Record–seriously, write it down–what looks good, what combinations look good. Stick to those combinations–and colors. Variety in a wardrobe is for suckers. (Look at the really well-dressed icons. Are they known for a variety of looks? Heck, no. Jackie O is known for her suits, Audrey Hepburn is known for her little black dresses. You will become an icon yourself if you find what looks good on you and STICK WITH IT.)
2. Visualize. Visualize what you’re missing out of your wardrobe, keep it in mind as you shop, and buy only that.
3. Buy basics in bulk. I have a lot of button down shirts, which look good on me and which I need for work. I also have a lot of fitted tee-shirts, which also look good on me.
4. Buy one coat, one bag, and a few pairs of shoes. I agree with Crystal on this one. Despite all the fuss about shoes, are the great style icons known for their shoe choices? No. No one really cares what shoes you wear, what bag you carry, or what coat you put on.
5. DON’T GO INTO THE MALL!
Thanks, Crystal, for letting me rant. Hope this helps.
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