I'm going to say something that might be shocking - I'm not cheap. I am the black sheep of this Whoreder family, because I love splurging and will never be described as frugal. So what, you may be asking, am I doing here? Over the last few years I've been much more responsible with my money and spending choices. Before running out and buying something, I research it and try to get a second "do I need this?" opinion. And if I still really need to have it, I'll look for deals or coupons before committing to buy anything. Of course, I've had some slips, like spending my last $20 on a plate of Gorgonzola gnocchi instead of saving it for gas money. But for the most part, I've made a lot of progress. The biggest reward I've seen (aside from a healthier 401k) is a much improved credit score, from the you-gotta-be-kidding-me low 600s to the you-go-girl mid 700s. For the first time since... ever, I no longer have bad credit shame!
So while I'm learning to make better choices about not overspending, today I learned that the perils of underspending. I popped into my local CVS for Red Vine fix and got the urge to buy some new nail polish. I had coupons for two different brands, but rather than work out which was the better deal my eyes zeroed in on a bargain brand for $1.99 - huzzah! Or so I thought...
