We have cut out a lot of extras at our house in the last couple years (having the second baby was a bit of a financial stretch). However, I can attest that when one spouse is frugal and the other isn't - there are going to be times when you have to give in.
We went back to having the groceries delivered (for a 6.95 fee -often free with coupons and discounts): because it turns out that husband always overspends at the grocery store and when one or both of us goes (with kids) it's a nightmare. I find that we spend less, only buy what we need, and save time and santity by not going ourselves.
I learned not to complain about his occasional trips to the donut shop for coffee before work: because it's important to him to have that perk, especially since I've budgeted out all the other ones.
We treat ourselves to the occassional (4 times a year) expensive video game: because going to the movies is too expensive, and we really like spending time together killing aliens.
Finally, ice cream is very important to my husband -and we're lucky to have great New England ice cream stands. In the summer, I never, ever, suggest that he get a smaller size when we go out.
When Trimming the Fat is Cutting Too Much
July 15th, 2010 at 03:17 pm
July 15th, 2010 at 05:40 pm 1279212039
Some things are well worth it, and the small luxuries shouldn't break the bank!
July 15th, 2010 at 07:45 pm 1279219550
July 15th, 2010 at 09:25 pm 1279225516
July 17th, 2010 at 11:26 am 1279362404
Jerry
July 21st, 2010 at 02:59 am 1279677573