Eating Like a Poor Person, Tis the Season
I wanted to let everyone know on how I’m progressing in my experiment on eating like a poor person. Yesterday I spent $15 on eggs, oatmeal, soups, and snacks for the kids and me. This is all that I have spent this month on groceries plus $12 that I spent last Wednesday when we arrived way too late to the house to cook. Usually be the middle of the month, I have already spent $400 on food. So far, I have over $350 to donate to charity. I can’t believe how much money I haven’t spent.
I want to thank Tina for posting that wonderful post that encouraged me to start this experiment. She has also showed me that I have been frivolously overspending on food. I love trying out different cuisines and wines, and so that really cuts into my pockets. I also have the habit of eating out and drinking at lounges where the drinks are an average of $12 a piece. This has also helped with how I see other parts of my budget categories. This Christmas, I have been super smart about my shopping. I told my family that I am only shopping for the children, and the adults need to do a Secret Santa, where we can’t spend more than $50. Some people were reluctant, but they finally caved.
There are so many people in the country who are being laid off, unemployed, or are barely living paycheck to paycheck. If I can help children in some way, I will feel like I have done something wonderful these holidays. My children are getting way too much for Christmas from their grandparents, family members, and probably even me. I want to bring some happiness to children who are not able to have the luxuries that my children are offered. I have donated tons of clothes, electronics, and house furnishings to different organizations. I want to volunteer with the children at an event, so they can start helping others and appreciate their life.
If you are able to help, help. It’s better to give a present than to receive one.
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