Poor As A Church Mouse

So… when do you really know when you have hit rock bottom? When I had to borrow money from my daughter to get my car fixed I thought that was pretty low; however that all went well. I still owe her the money… but at least I know it is coming and that debt will soon be paid.

Making daily decisions about what to (or not to) purchase is becoming fun. I make it a game. First I decide if it is something I really, really, really need… and then shop around until I feel I have gotten the very best price possible. Substituting store brands for comparable name brands is usually a ‘no brainer’.  Scouring store aisles for sale items is as fun as winning a contest. There are some things I simply won’t skimp on… take toilet paper for example. There is no way in the world I would purchase a cheaper quality of toilet paper. It has work to do… and it has to be soft.

Gas prices are rising so high that filling my tank has become a ‘luxury item’ purchase.  Going places further than my town requires thoughtful consideration. Can I afford the gas it will take to get there… or do I need to save my cash for monthly bills?  I am not always happy with the obvious answer. But that is not when I felt I hit rock bottom.

TODAY is the day. You might think this is silly… but the underwire of my very expensive name brand bra broke through the seam and is pinching under my arm. It hurts. I can’t afford to purchase a new one. THAT’S when I felt I hit rock bottom. Yes, I have other bras… but this one is my favorite. It fits well, feels good, and doesn’t show through my t-shirts. I have tried many other brands… they don’t even come close to my favorite. So the big question today is… where can I scrape up the $40 I need for a replacement?

I worked a side job this week and earned enough for 2 bras… BUT… the title to my car got misplaced during the move and I have to purchase a replacement… for $60… then re-register my car… another $70. Yet another decision made on the side of practicality and an empty bank account.

Please don’t think I’m complaining. I know there are many others out there in the world that would love to have a fraction of the things I do. There is a roof over my head, heat, lights, all the comforts of home. I have my health, my family and friends. Other than a non-pinching bra what more do I need?

On the bright side… by opting to stay home instead of running around I find the house is cleaner. Oh… and I have kept my windowsill herbs thriving for over 4 weeks!!! Generally plants have a life expectancy of about 2 weeks when under my care.

Parsley, Basil, Thyme, and Mint

Everyone has time tested cost saving tips. What’s YOUR’S??? Leave a comment and help me out.