The Inexpensively Network connects individuals from around the country to provide families with the most up to date and accurate savings tools in their own communities. They compile weekly lists for grocery store deals, suggest ideas on living your life for less, offer tips on finding the best savings and encourage our community to be charitable even on a budget. Meet our team each week as we feature one of our contributors, in her own words.
I hate math. So I cringed when I became in charge of the family checkbook. I cringed even harder when I accepted a job as the business manager at a university. I would be responsible for an entire department’s budget. Me? The one who had fun writing a 20-page paper but who managed to get through college with one, teeny tiny ol’ math class? (And a very basic one at that!) *Sigh.*
But you know what I found out? It’s fun to save money. It’s fun to use your resources wisely and be able to spoil your family with products you would have never dreamed of being able to afford before coupons. (I remember calling my sister when I first started couponing and telling her, “I feel so pampered! Why didn’t I do this before?!”) It’s fun to donate brand-new items to people who need them—and appreciate them.
I used to think couponing wasn’t worth it. What really convinced me was when I ran out of deodorant one day. I suddenly realized I would have gone to Walmart that day to buy some more deodorant, and I would have paid whatever they wanted me to—without giving it a second thought. Ya gotta have deodorant, right? But I didn’t have to pay anything because I had gotten several sticks for free at Walgreens the week before. Well, it’s hard to turn back once you’re in on “the secret.” You can really enjoy some retail therapy when it’s free and useful!
Now I am a stay-at-home mom to our son. I get to go to nursing school part time because it’s free and I enjoy it. When my husband was in between jobs, I didn’t worry as much, because I knew our stockpile would see us through. Thanks to couponing and the wonderful community I have become a part of, I know I can take care of my family no matter what salary you throw at me. In fact, I kinda enjoy the challenge.
So I started Frugal Femina to share my attempts at living frugally (and fully!), and to learn from you, too. I am continually inspired by my readers and fellow bloggers, and I hope this journey keeps on going. There is always something new to learn!