I've been learning a lot as I am faced with honoring my Compact pledge. So far, I have been faithful to it, except for the purchase of two new books. I received some overtime for working last Saturday, so I have extra money.
First, I spent part of the money on two new books. These books were not available from the library or used bookstore. They are only available from a UK publisher called Sun Daughter Press. The titles are called "The Feminine Universe," about Goddess cosmology, and "Enter Amelia Bingham," a mystery novel. I've been interested in buying the books for sometime, but lacked the money to do so.
Second, I spent another part of the money on stocking my pantry. Last week was Shop-rite's Can Can sale, where can goods and other staples are sharply marked down. I had some coupons, so I saved a great deal. I spent about $20 more than usual, but walked out with some great deals on canned veggies, fruit, and beans. They will work well as base foods to build dinners around. I should only have to buy items like eggs, bread, soy milk, and meats when needed.
Third, I did something I had not done in a while - visited some favorite thrift shops and a used bookstore. I found some wonderful items. I purchased 6 handkerchiefs for $3, a bandanna for $1, a cute pink shrug for $3, and a small, white metal shelf for the bathroom. I stopped at another shop and picked up a beautiful painting of Kuan Yin for $8 and a book on IBS for $1. At the used book store, I got the book I was looking for and another book from a favorite author for $8 and a cup of tea for $1. I did stop and pick up dinner at a local dinner. It was rather expensive at $20, but the portions are huge and I was able to eat two lunches and a dinner from it.
But strangely, on the way home, I felt guilty for my purchases, almost worried about making them. I had enough money to spend a little and wanted to take a drive. I had fun walking around the shops and found some wonderful items that I will certainly use and enjoy. I used to think nothing of going out and doing this every weekend - and that's most likely why I am in debt right now. I normally stay out of the shops, except to purchase food or weekly household items. I have been very diligent to only shop once a week and stick to my list. It was hard at first, but became easier over the last few weeks. I also make a once-a-week trip to the library to pick up any DVD's, CD's, or books I have waiting. This week I watched The Twilight Zone Season 5, Nero Wolfe, Julie and Julia, and The Biography of Betty Boop. I still have a Dorothy Sayer's mystery waiting to be enjoyed. I am looking forward to getting back to my normal schedule and pay check.
Lastly, I paid all my bills - even paying the cable early. I put extra toward my credit card and finished paying off one of my medical bills. I put something into savings too. I also have three doctors appointments this week, which I have to pay co-pays on, in addition, I will have to buy more gas and a train ticket to Philly for one appointment.
First, I spent part of the money on two new books. These books were not available from the library or used bookstore. They are only available from a UK publisher called Sun Daughter Press. The titles are called "The Feminine Universe," about Goddess cosmology, and "Enter Amelia Bingham," a mystery novel. I've been interested in buying the books for sometime, but lacked the money to do so.
Second, I spent another part of the money on stocking my pantry. Last week was Shop-rite's Can Can sale, where can goods and other staples are sharply marked down. I had some coupons, so I saved a great deal. I spent about $20 more than usual, but walked out with some great deals on canned veggies, fruit, and beans. They will work well as base foods to build dinners around. I should only have to buy items like eggs, bread, soy milk, and meats when needed.
Third, I did something I had not done in a while - visited some favorite thrift shops and a used bookstore. I found some wonderful items. I purchased 6 handkerchiefs for $3, a bandanna for $1, a cute pink shrug for $3, and a small, white metal shelf for the bathroom. I stopped at another shop and picked up a beautiful painting of Kuan Yin for $8 and a book on IBS for $1. At the used book store, I got the book I was looking for and another book from a favorite author for $8 and a cup of tea for $1. I did stop and pick up dinner at a local dinner. It was rather expensive at $20, but the portions are huge and I was able to eat two lunches and a dinner from it.
But strangely, on the way home, I felt guilty for my purchases, almost worried about making them. I had enough money to spend a little and wanted to take a drive. I had fun walking around the shops and found some wonderful items that I will certainly use and enjoy. I used to think nothing of going out and doing this every weekend - and that's most likely why I am in debt right now. I normally stay out of the shops, except to purchase food or weekly household items. I have been very diligent to only shop once a week and stick to my list. It was hard at first, but became easier over the last few weeks. I also make a once-a-week trip to the library to pick up any DVD's, CD's, or books I have waiting. This week I watched The Twilight Zone Season 5, Nero Wolfe, Julie and Julia, and The Biography of Betty Boop. I still have a Dorothy Sayer's mystery waiting to be enjoyed. I am looking forward to getting back to my normal schedule and pay check.
Lastly, I paid all my bills - even paying the cable early. I put extra toward my credit card and finished paying off one of my medical bills. I put something into savings too. I also have three doctors appointments this week, which I have to pay co-pays on, in addition, I will have to buy more gas and a train ticket to Philly for one appointment.