What's Down With the Economy?

I consider myself to be a price conscious person. Lately, I'm wondering what else I can do to save money.

Since I've been shopping (for myself), I've been a coupon clipper (grocery stores and any other store or restaurant that accepts them). On days when I don't brew my own coffee, I bring my thermos to 7-11 for .99 coffee vs going to one of those high priced coffee cafe's.

Usually, I bring a selection of fruit and nuts to work. This usually is enough to satiate my appetite until I get home.

Because I get up early, I'm usually off work early enough to get matinee prices for movies and live productions.

Nordstrom Rack is my favorite shopping haunt. Why pay full price, when I can get last season's gear for 60% (or more) off Nordstrom prices. Back in the day, you could get some decent sales at Macy's...that's no longer true. It seems Macy's "jack s the prices...and bring them down a little, bit by bit".

When I hear about a store closing, (if they sell something that I can use, or that may be a suitable gift), I make it a point to check out their goods. Unless it's something that I really like, I wait until the last possible moment to visit the store remnants to see what kind of deal(s) I can get.

I've noticed that restaurant portions are getting smaller; the same as food in grocery stores. The prices are going up slightly or staying the same, but the packaging or portions are getting smaller. Just last year when I went to a restaurant, I was able to take some of my food home, which was good for another meal, this year, I'm finding that I can almost finish my plate.

I've also found that most of my favorite magazines can be read on-line. Although magazine subscriptions aren't that expensive, all dollars saved, can be spent on shoes (at DSW of course).

A few years ago, I was in Chicago with a colleague. She took me to some great consignment stores. I got a brand new pair of linen shorts for less than $4.00, and a host of other brand new (and yes, I'll admit it) some slightly used clothes for "a song". One of my favorite dresses, as well as one that I get the most compliments for came from the consignment store.

It looks as the economy is going to be in the doldrums for at least another year. Although it's not easy --- especially when unexpected expenses come up, a positive mental attitude and a bit of ingenuity will get us through it.