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Joanne Heim

Joanne Heim

Author of Living Simply: Choosing Less in a World of More

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Gary Foreman

Editor and publisher of The Dollar Stretcher Newsletter

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Indulgence Overload

Indulgence Overload

When does a treat stop being a treat and start becoming routine? And would you recognize it if it did?

We've all got our little vices and we're not suggesting that you should give them up completely. But, there's a difference between an occasional treat and something that bleeds your wallet dry (Like that little trip to The Mega Coffee Chain EVERY morning.)

If you do enjoy the coffee, stop by your local grocery store and pick up a bag-at least you'll get more than one cup for the price. Get into the habit of turning on your coffee pot before your morning shower and taking a cup with you when you leave for work. Of course the coffee you buy at the grocery store won't be like they make it at your favorite place, but that's what makes it a treat. For your morning routine, a cup of good homemade coffee for pennies is just what you need. Pretty soon your new routine will feel just as comfortable and you'll save money in the process.

Coffee isn't the only "treat" we tend to have. Around here, it's the weekly mani-pedi and going out to lunch that's causing low cash flow. Share some of yours with us, and how you're managing them to stay frugal

Posted: 11/24/08
LauraLee311

My new thing is to skip going out for happy hours and have them at my place or my friends' places instead.