It’s eerie to drive past the mall on a Saturday afternoon and only see a smattering cars parked in the massive lot. And it’s downright scary to be seated immediately in Red Lobster on once standing-room-only Friday nights.
I won’t lie, these tight economic times have made me a little weird.
There was a time when gift cards (for me, the very best gift!) to my favorite stores and restaurants would send me running out the door eager to spend or eat up every dime.
Not anymore.
The fistful of giftcards I received on my birthday (nine months ago) have remained untouched and unspent.
“But why?????” You (and Mr. PBW) ask.
Because the recession-induced weirdo in me is saving them for hard times. If the worst happens, I’ll be able to go out to dinner and pick-up a little treat. Mr. PBW nods silently at my rationalization, but his eyes say, “If you don’t hurry up and spend those cards, I will!”
Sigh.
Okay, ya’ll. I’ve made my “this recession is turning me into a weirdo” confession. Now it’s your turn.
Are you in Sephora rehab? Stretching your hair salon visits? Buying more Maybelline than MAC?
You’re among friends here, so ‘fess up!
How has the recession changed you?
It hasn't affected my spending habits as much as it probably should have, Phyllis, but I am thinking twice before I put things in my shopping cart. I find myself tailoring my weekly menu based on whatever is on sale. I definitely don't spend as much money at Starbucks anymore, but that was more about a change in my writing habits than the recession.
ReplyDeleteIt is scary, though. Feels like I should scale back more.
the recession didnt hurt as bad as when i quit my job and began working for free at my internship for school. im not buying ANYTHING. havent had a relaxer in 11 weeks and im trying to rationalize it, which is sort of working but im not sure for how much longer.
ReplyDeleteSpend them before they're past their used by dates!
ReplyDeleteThanks for coming by blog - lots of great stuff here - will add you to my blogroll.
Hi Phyllis! I actually have scaled back my hair appointments, but I use a really great shampoo and conditioner at home. It's called FC5, made from kiwi extract, and conditioner made from carrot cell extract...both salon grade...from one beauty lover to another!:)
ReplyDeleteGift cards make the world go round..lol I love them!
ReplyDeleteWhen i tried to post before, I couldn't so I hope it goes through today because I want to show my love for your Blog!!!
PJD
Hi Phyllis, I definitely go out to eat a lot less that I used to. I also don't buy as many unnecessary clothes, asking myself, "Do I really need another red sweater?" Also, I used to get pedicures quite a bit, now I just do it myself and it looks nearly as good as the salon!
ReplyDeleteHello! Definitely eating out less and picking up more drugstore makeup. Will still splurge for beauty products and foundation- but the other makeup... nope!
ReplyDeleteNot so much a recession confession, but I did want to say....my big weakness is nice nails (which if you ever see my hair, you'll agree) but in a hospital you can't have length or enhancements and the humidity from gloves 45/60 strips polish right off. Enter OPI Axxium SoakOff Gels- beautiful shiny, striking colour for 2 weeks (3 if I stretch it). My fashion passion goes pitty pat everytime I look at my glossy deep purple pedicure that is 6 weeks old and looks like the first week.
ReplyDeletealso don't buy as many unnecessary clothes, asking myself, "Do I really need another red sweater?" Also, I used to get pedicures quite a bit, now I just do it myself and it looks nearly as good as the salon!
ReplyDeleteBaby Boy Bedding