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General Discussion => Throw Down the Gauntlet => Topic started by: ixtap on January 31, 2020, 09:09:38 PM

Title: Frugal February
Post by: ixtap on January 31, 2020, 09:09:38 PM
I feel like I need to get back to the basics and reground myself.

January was all insurance bills, membership renewals, donations, and more fast food than would be healthy for two or three people, much less myself.

In our household, DH is exempt from challenges, and most especially this one. He has his moments, but he doesn't have any spending habits that get out of control, whereas I have had branded lattes at least twice this week.

Who is in for Frugal February?
Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: Sailor Sam on January 31, 2020, 09:59:27 PM
Me!

My biggest bugaboo is fancy coffee and eating out, but I’m suddenly the owner of a very tender tummy. I’m off restaurants and coffee, and onto cheap n’ bland carbs. It will be interesting to see what happens to the spending.

Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: mspym on January 31, 2020, 10:18:03 PM
I'm in!
Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: SailingOnASmallSailboat on February 01, 2020, 08:21:58 AM
I'm in. With caveats on my part.

We know we've got a big medical (daughter wisdom teeth out; likely $700+ out of pocket) and at least one big purchase (new sails) for the boat. Focus here is on reining in grocery spending which was out of control last month.
Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: ixtap on February 01, 2020, 08:50:10 AM
I'm in. With caveats on my part.

We know we've got a big medical (daughter wisdom teeth out; likely $700+ out of pocket) and at least one big purchase (new sails) for the boat. Focus here is on reining in grocery spending which was out of control last month.

It seems a good time of year to order those sails, don't want to put it off too long

We will likely order a storm sail this year, but DH has strong opinions on that so he will have to make time to do it.

We will also be replacing our propane stove and the rest of the system.
Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: LostGirl on February 01, 2020, 09:31:09 AM
Wow, yes our January was put of control for no good reason. Need to reign it in for February.  Historically January is a very low spend month for us coming off of the holiday eating and spending so trying to move it over one month.
Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: centwise on February 01, 2020, 02:18:23 PM
Came here looking for a frugal February challenge and found it! My savings rate really dropped in Dec/Jan (holidays, birthdays, new-baby gifts, theatre tickets, and paying for daughter's pricey lessons). Feb needs to be different.

My challenge for Feb: I'd like to see how many days I can go with zero spending. I know that I have to renew my gym membership on Feb 15, so I have planned for that and am omitting it from consideration. But other than that: my house is full of food, the gas tank is full, and I have no spendy social obligations for the next few weeks.

And when I do have to spend, I'll attempt to scrounge up some petty cash to cover it (e.g. a jar of coins, get bottle deposit refunds, etc.). [No side gig here.]

So here goes:

Aim: at least two weeks of no spending.

Feb 1. Spending so far: $0. Wish me "luck" (= discipline).
Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: ApacheStache on February 01, 2020, 02:26:01 PM
I'm in. My discretionary spending went off the rails in January. As a result, I'm now using my debit card for purchases and I've removed all my credit cards from my Amazon account.
Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: ixtap on February 01, 2020, 02:45:04 PM
@centwise , is that two straight weeks of no spending?! That would be impressive. I can often have 14 or more no spend days in a month, but I don't think we have ever gone a full two weeks without hitting the grocery store.


@ApacheStache , I think "no discretionary spending" is a good way to put my goal.


DH made a request from the pharmacy. I made it there and back without picking up anything except the requested item.
Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: mspym on February 01, 2020, 03:01:50 PM
I have managed to have the same $5 note in my wallet for 3 weeks now. I do have to grocery shop today so challenge is to make a list and only purchase what is on the list and then take credit/debit cards out of my wallet for the week.
Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: SailingOnASmallSailboat on February 01, 2020, 05:06:39 PM
@ixtap we're doing a complete refit of the boat (ripped out galley and chart table areas down to bare fiberglass). Figure we'd better pay for a lot of the project while DH still has a solid income. (Or at least the outflow is easier to stomach, though we've planned for all of it.) We are doing most of the work ourselves; tomorrow the new chart table bulkhead goes in!!!

We're ordering a new jib and a cruising code zero.
Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: ixtap on February 01, 2020, 05:12:35 PM
@ixtap we're doing a complete refit of the boat (ripped out galley and chart table areas down to bare fiberglass). Figure we'd better pay for a lot of the project while DH still has a solid income. (Or at least the outflow is easier to stomach, though we've planned for all of it.) We are doing most of the work ourselves; tomorrow the new chart table bulkhead goes in!!!

We're ordering a new jib and a cruising code zero.

Oooohhhhh we still haven't decided on our light wind sail.

We are happy with the furnishings themselves, but have had to reinsulate the refrigerator. While we were living aboard. I hope you aren't living aboard!
Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: Sailor Sam on February 02, 2020, 04:44:37 AM
Man, all this boat talk is making me happy. Though, @ixtap & @SailingOnASmallSailboat, label your porn, eh?

Yesterday was frugally successful. I went to the gym, realized I’m injured in a completely new and enraging way, went home and was so wroth the only thing I could do was take a nap then eat dinner at 9pm. Upside, zero spend day.
Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: SailingOnASmallSailboat on February 02, 2020, 08:29:58 AM
@ixtap we're doing a complete refit of the boat (ripped out galley and chart table areas down to bare fiberglass). Figure we'd better pay for a lot of the project while DH still has a solid income. (Or at least the outflow is easier to stomach, though we've planned for all of it.) We are doing most of the work ourselves; tomorrow the new chart table bulkhead goes in!!!

We're ordering a new jib and a cruising code zero.

Oooohhhhh we still haven't decided on our light wind sail.

We are happy with the furnishings themselves, but have had to reinsulate the refrigerator. While we were living aboard. I hope you aren't living aboard!

(still trying to figure out the quoting thing - not even sure how to label my #boatporn, @Sailor Sam !)

@ixtap - Jamie over at SailingTotem makes a really strong case for a CCZ, so we're 90%+ of the way towards that call.

Thank god we're not living aboard. Holy crap the mess on the boat. Oy. We've traded some labor (plus power costs, but as of yet have not been handed a bill) for the use of a house 8 minutes away from the boat until sailing season starts again in mid-April. House has a killer screen porch with roll down vinyl panels (can you say WORKSHOP!). Trying to get the interior at least "livable" by then as well as use up the massive building materials on the porch before we have to move out. Did I mention we're about to put our house, which is 3 hours away from here, on the market?

We've had the boat for 28 years and have cruised her extensively a few times, so the redo is based on what we know we want. Last time we took off we had both kids aboard and this time it's back to just us.
Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: ixtap on February 02, 2020, 08:40:38 AM
#boatporn for @Sailor Sam . I assume the label you wanted was so that you could get in on it!

@SailingOnASmallSailboat , are you getting a sock or furling chute?

No boating this weekend, as DH is working and when he does have time off, we are going to a super bowl party with his colleagues. We are taking hard cider and non alcoholic sparkling cider that have been sitting in our cupboards for ages. So, frugal and decluttering!
Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: SailingOnASmallSailboat on February 02, 2020, 08:49:43 AM
#boatporn for @Sailor Sam . I assume the label you wanted was so that you could get in on it!

@SailingOnASmallSailboat , are you getting a sock or furling chute?

No boating this weekend, as DH is working and when he does have time off, we are going to a super bowl party with his colleagues. We are taking hard cider and non alcoholic sparkling cider that have been sitting in our cupboards for ages. So, frugal and decluttering!

CCZ is available only in the furling chute, as far as we can figure out.

We just declined a last minute invite to a super bowl gathering - we're doing a 21 day detox thing and I just went shopping for food PLUS I'd be so tempted. Being frugal with food and with my health on that decision. Good for you on the frugal and decluttering part!

Off to shape foam, then it's fiberglass time. We should have a bulkhead in place by this afternoon.
Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: PMG on February 02, 2020, 11:25:14 AM
I am coming here with indistinct goals, but I really want to be part of the group and be encouraged and goaded by your successes!

I've barely even paid attention to where our money is going for the past several months.  We're eating out frequently and in general out of routine.  Using the dryer!  Doing second and third loads of laundry because we forgot an item.  Making extra trips to the shop...

Here's my excuses.  I took on a huge work project in September with extra long hours, physically demanding, and stressful.  That's when I kind of stopped cooking and packing lunches.  Now, I'm 15 weeks pregnant.  I've been really sick so far.  The kitchen makes me sick.  I'm a grouchy mess.  I don't exercise at all now. Then I started a new job two weeks ago.  Oh.  And we're buying a house.

Can I make some goals out of this rambling mess?  I can't exclude all shopping as some house and clothing things will be necessities.  At this point even some eating out is a necessity.

But I need to get some routine and regain some healthy habits. 

I want to go on two walks this week. 

I want to pack my lunch at least three days this week. 

I want to cook a curry.

I want to bake or make some kind of treat for my spouse.






Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: ixtap on February 02, 2020, 11:44:58 AM
@PMG , it sounds like just tracking would be a good goal for you!

Whatever you decide, please share it with us.
Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: Gin1984 on February 02, 2020, 02:07:42 PM
I'm in, January was a very expensive month for us.  We did not make our monthly savings goal for our down payment.  Time to get serious!
Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: ixtap on February 02, 2020, 04:07:22 PM
DH thought he needed to stop for stuff for his lunch salad, but I found a substitute in the freezer. This isn't going to hold much longer; all we have left in the freezer are ice packs and butter. And he can't eat dairy.
Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: mspym on February 02, 2020, 04:39:35 PM
I have managed to have the same $5 note in my wallet for 3 weeks now. I do have to grocery shop today so challenge is to make a list and only purchase what is on the list and then take credit/debit cards out of my wallet for the week.
We walked to the supermarket, bought only what was on the list, and carried it home in our backpacks.  *think* that we can keep our total food spending this week under $100, including buying 6l of milk for teen boys.
Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: Gin1984 on February 02, 2020, 05:04:41 PM
I am coming here with indistinct goals, but I really want to be part of the group and be encouraged and goaded by your successes!

I've barely even paid attention to where our money is going for the past several months.  We're eating out frequently and in general out of routine.  Using the dryer!  Doing second and third loads of laundry because we forgot an item.  Making extra trips to the shop...

Here's my excuses.  I took on a huge work project in September with extra long hours, physically demanding, and stressful.  That's when I kind of stopped cooking and packing lunches.  Now, I'm 15 weeks pregnant.  I've been really sick so far.  The kitchen makes me sick.  I'm a grouchy mess.  I don't exercise at all now. Then I started a new job two weeks ago.  Oh.  And we're buying a house.

Can I make some goals out of this rambling mess?  I can't exclude all shopping as some house and clothing things will be necessities.  At this point even some eating out is a necessity.

But I need to get some routine and regain some healthy habits. 

I want to go on two walks this week. 

I want to pack my lunch at least three days this week. 

I want to cook a curry.

I want to bake or make some kind of treat for my spouse.
My husband took over most of the cooking when I was pregnant.  Could your spouse?
Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: Serendip on February 02, 2020, 07:32:41 PM
I'm in for some February frugality!

We are travelling overseas for 10 days (14th-23rd) so while I have the time off work,  I am a plus+1 with my SO so am not really paying much for this trip. Just have to keep associated costs low.

Today was a work day & a no-spend day.
Will aim for at least 10-15 no spend days this month. I've been using my credit card too much so might remove it from my wallet (the bill gets paid off but I don't like the casual nature of card tapping..even though it's convenient)

Tomorrow I am making cabbage/tofu wontons and already have most ingredients and since I have the next few days off of work will try to do some baking/cooking so I am not tempted to grab things when I'm out.

*just realized I spent $36 on a bottle of wine for a dinner party & $2 on a cookie on Feb 1st..so indulgent that I blocked it out of my memory!*
Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: Sailor Sam on February 02, 2020, 07:43:38 PM
1-Feb
- $300 on rent

2-Feb
- $46 on groceries. Including some fancy pants jarred broth, because #peptic ulcer. I ain’t starting from carcass.
- $3   on socializing. It was Starbucks tea, okay? OKAY? God, Becky.

Running Total:
$346
Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: centwise on February 03, 2020, 10:43:53 AM

Hi Ixtap,

@centwise , is that two straight weeks of no spending?! That would be impressive. I can often have 14 or more no spend days in a month, but I don't think we have ever gone a full two weeks without hitting the grocery store.


Yes that's the plan! I'm not sure if I can make it, but my fallback position is:  I do have a couple of bags full of beverage containers ready to redeem, in case I cave and need to buy something fresh at the grocery store. :) I'll keep you posted. Good luck with your challenge.
Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: centwise on February 03, 2020, 10:45:40 AM

My challenge for Feb: I'd like to see how many days I can go with zero spending. I know that I have to renew my gym membership on Feb 15, so I have planned for that and am omitting it from consideration. But other than that: my house is full of food, the gas tank is full, and I have no spendy social obligations for the next few weeks.

And when I do have to spend, I'll attempt to scrounge up some petty cash to cover it (e.g. a jar of coins, get bottle deposit refunds, etc.). [No side gig here.]

So here goes:

Aim: at least two weeks of no spending.

Feb 1. $0
Feb 2. $0
Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: ixtap on February 03, 2020, 12:40:01 PM
Feb 1:  $10 (pharmacy)
Feb 2:  $0
Feb 3:  $75 (grocery)
Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: Sailor Sam on February 03, 2020, 06:01:32 PM
1-Feb
- $300 on rent

2-Feb
- $46 on groceries. Including some fancy pants jarred broth, because #peptic ulcer. I ain’t starting from carcass.
- $3   on socializing. It was Starbucks tea, okay? OKAY? God, Becky.

3-Feb
- $0. Tempted but some stuff at the exchange, but I decided it wasn’t worth whipping out my credit card for a $1.50 sticker.

Running Total:
$346
Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: Serendip on February 03, 2020, 09:04:53 PM
It is good that I joined this challenge--prevented me from going to the thrift store today to look for a new recycling basket.
Went cross-country skiing instead :)

Feb 1: $38 (liquor & a cookie)
Feb 2: $0
Feb 3: $0 (my fella grabbed a few groceries and beer but we don't combine finances so I'm not going to be counting him into my calculations..) We alternate buying things so when I make an effort to use things up from home, it leads to less spending overall for both of us. I made some veggie wontons & vegan bacon, mostly with things I had already.
Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: PMG on February 04, 2020, 10:54:09 AM
I just turned down lunch out at my favorite Mexican restaurant to eat the curry I packed from home.  It’s a bit tricky because it’s a new work team and I do need to do some social things to build rapport, but it’s a frugal success for today.
Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: ixtap on February 04, 2020, 11:21:33 AM
I ate breakfast at home. I rarely eat breakfast, but when I do it is out, and generally counts as an early lunch. Healthier and cheaper today.

However, I feel more disappointed than triumphant. This is why people have a hard time sticking to diets and budgets.
Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: mspym on February 04, 2020, 12:41:52 PM
However, I feel more disappointed than triumphant. This is why people have a hard time sticking to diets and budgets.
I am curious about this part, why does it feel disappointing to you? What does eating lunch out represent and what are you missing out on by eating at home?

Because it may be something you value and need to build into your budget or it could be something you could build into your home meals. But it depends on what *it* is.
Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: ixtap on February 04, 2020, 12:48:11 PM
However, I feel more disappointed than triumphant. This is why people have a hard time sticking to diets and budgets.
I am curious about this part, why does it feel disappointing to you? What does eating lunch out represent and what are you missing out on by eating at home?

Because it may be something you value and need to build into your budget or it could be something you could build into your home meals. But it depends on what *it* is.

Oh, in this case it was quite simply the specific food that I couldn't reproduce with what I had at home. I made up for it at lunch with the frozen pizza I bought for $2.99 yesterday at the grocery store. The thing is, I hardly ever buy cheese these days, as DH can no longer eat it.
Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: Sailor Sam on February 04, 2020, 03:58:27 PM
1-Feb
- $300 on rent

2-Feb
- $46 on groceries. Including some fancy pants jarred broth, because #peptic ulcer. I ain’t starting from carcass.
- $3   on socializing. It was Starbucks tea, okay? OKAY? God, Becky.

3-Feb
- $0. Tempted but some stuff at the exchange, but I decided it wasn’t worth whipping out my credit card for a $1.50 sticker.

4-Feb
- $28. Prescription toothpaste. I suspect it’s witchdoctor stuff, but I’m tired of having to get my teeth drilled on

Running Total:
$377


I’m struggling with some sort of stomach complaint, which has seriously limited my diet (so.tire.of.chicken.dont.even.like.chicken), which in turn is making me realize how much of my discretionary spending is food or coffee related.
Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: ixtap on February 04, 2020, 04:38:43 PM
Feb 1:  $10 (pharmacy)
Feb 2:  $0
Feb 3:  $75 (grocery)
Feb 4:  $0

I forgot something at the grocery yesterday, but when I asked DH if he wanted it today or if it could wait until the next shop, he said it could wait.
Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: Serendip on February 04, 2020, 04:52:33 PM
Feb 1: $38 (liquor & a cookie)
Feb 2: $0
Feb 3: $0
Feb 4: $42 (groceries)
          $4.50 (a battery)
Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: SailingOnASmallSailboat on February 04, 2020, 06:09:52 PM
Just re-read the intro and the thread and feel better; I was going to have a hard time getting DH on board (he doesn't have any bad habits, other than scrolling slick deals for things he can't pass up)

In for no discretionary spending in February. Boat parts are most decidedly NOT discretionary. Hah.
Feb 1: boat parts and groceries, plus gas for the car: $94.56
Feb 2: boat parts: $95.56
Feb 3:$0
Feb 4: $0
Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: okisok on February 04, 2020, 06:22:36 PM
Thanks for starting this thread. I realized a few days ago that I completely missed doing my No Spend January like usual. Onward & upward into no-spend February!

Feb 2 $28.24  Birthday gift that I didn't plan ahead for
Feb 2 $32.21 Groceries (without my list)
Feb 2 $22.83 Thrift store clothes
Feb 2 $10.92 Once-a-month lunch with old friends
Feb 3 $24.69 Tank of gas

Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: centwise on February 04, 2020, 10:37:13 PM

My challenge for Feb: I'd like to see how many days I can go with zero spending. I know that I have to renew my gym membership on Feb 15, so I have planned for that and am omitting it from consideration. But other than that: my house is full of food, the gas tank is full, and I have no spendy social obligations for the next few weeks.

And when I do have to spend, I'll attempt to scrounge up some petty cash to cover it (e.g. a jar of coins, get bottle deposit refunds, etc.). [No side gig here.]

So here goes:

Aim: at least two weeks of no spending.

Feb 1. $0
Feb 2. $0

Feb 3. $0
Feb 4. $0
Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: cupcakery on February 05, 2020, 06:36:09 AM
January hurt.  We were on vacation, I had to pay the dentist, some copays, and my husband's car needed a minor repair.  It isn't that we saved nothing, but the amount we saved was tiny.

My goal for February is to seriously cut back.  We have some major expenses coming up and I can't have another month without putting a lot into my Sinking Fund.

So far, so good.  We went grocery shopping together on Saturday and did a lot of meal prep.  I almost had a moment of weakness the other day and bought concert tickets, but decided it was unnecessary, and that money would look much nicer in my bank account.  I do have to buy a baby shower gift, a birthday present, and buy some candy, etc. for the kids for Valentine's Day, but those shouldn't add up to much. 
Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: centwise on February 05, 2020, 01:28:25 PM

My challenge for Feb: I'd like to see how many days I can go with zero spending. I know that I have to renew my gym membership on Feb 15, so I have planned for that and am omitting it from consideration. But other than that: my house is full of food, the gas tank is full, and I have no spendy social obligations for the next few weeks.

And when I do have to spend, I'll attempt to scrounge up some petty cash to cover it (e.g. a jar of coins, get bottle deposit refunds, etc.). [No side gig here.]

So here goes:

Aim: at least two weeks of no spending.


Feb 1. $0
Feb 2. $0
Feb 3. $0
Feb 4. $0
Feb 5. $71.48 (40 for daughter, 31 for baby gifts)

AUGH! NO, I blew it! First I said yes to a "team sweatshirt" for daughter, then I gave her $10 for a dinner out with friends and then spent another $30 on additional baby gifts.

But I'm learning a lot from this exercise. I think I'm learning that gifts are a problem for me; it's easier to say no if I'm the only one affected, but I say "yes" too readily for spending on others. And it's very hard to say no to my teen daughter, even though she has some money of her own that she could spend on wants. I'm going forth with renewed resolve; posting on this thread will help to keep me accountable.
Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: ixtap on February 05, 2020, 01:37:08 PM
Feb 1:  $10 (pharmacy)
Feb 2:  $0
Feb 3:  $75 (grocery)
Feb 4:  $0
Feb 5:  $0

I have decided not to go to a non profit budget meeting. I sent in my requests, but I hate meetings with these people, it is cold and it is a crappy time to drive there. So, I won't use any gas today. That was a selfish frugal, not a sacrifice frugal.

It is really cold. OK, live in SoCal, it is just a little too cold to sit around, even bundled up. Even after I baked my lunch. I can either turn on the heat, which will likely stink because it hasn't been on in months, or I can crawl into the adjustable bed. Being a bed, it has warm blankets. Being adjustable, I can find a comfortable working position. Guess where I am typing from?
Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: Serendip on February 05, 2020, 06:59:33 PM
@centwise --isn't that one of the best thing about posting. I find accountability keeps me honest with my 'weak' spots!
@ixtap selfish frugal is still frugal :)


Feb 1: $38 (liquor & a cookie)
Feb 2: $0
Feb 3: $0
Feb 4: $42 (groceries)
          $4.50 (a battery)
Feb 5: $0 (went XC skiing but I already have the pass and we are having leftovers for dinner :) )
Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: Sailor Sam on February 05, 2020, 07:17:56 PM
1-Feb
- $0

2-Feb
- $46 on groceries. Including some fancy pants jarred broth, because #peptic ulcer. I ain’t starting from carcass.
- $3  on socializing. It was Starbucks tea, okay? OKAY? God, Becky.

3-Feb
- $0. Tempted but some stuff at the exchange, but I decided it wasn’t worth whipping out my credit card for a $1.50 sticker.

4-Feb
- $28. Prescription toothpaste. I suspect it’s witchdoctor stuff, but I’m tired of having to get my teeth drilled on

5-Feb
- $5 on a interval training app. The running program requires walking 90 seconds, and I can’t do that math in my head while voluntarily discomforting myself. Fuck that noise.

Running Total:
$82


I took rent out, because I realize the challenge is about discretionary spending. I’m feeling pretty sheepish that I keep letting the money ooze out. And tomorrow, I’m going to need gas. I dunno, it all seems fairly necessary?

Except for that app. That was pure gym fueled rage.
Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: ApacheStache on February 05, 2020, 09:40:38 PM
Feb 1: $0
Feb 2: $0
Feb 3: $0
Feb 4: $0
Feb 5: $0

So far so good this month. I haven't considered buying anything, nor have I been tempted to buy anything, In the past I've found a lot of success by pooling up all my purchases and only buying stuff on 2 days (Wednesdays and Saturdays) out of the week. I found that method cut out a ton of discretionary spending.
Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: SailingOnASmallSailboat on February 06, 2020, 05:46:20 AM
Feb 1: $0
Feb 2: $0
Feb 3: $0
Feb 4: $0
Feb 5: $0

So far so good this month. I haven't considered buying anything, nor have I been tempted to buy anything, In the past I've found a lot of success by pooling up all my purchases and only buying stuff on 2 days (Wednesdays and Saturdays) out of the week. I found that method cut out a ton of discretionary spending.

I usually apply this logic (staying out of stores reduces spending) to grocery but I like this overall "no buying stuff except on xxx day". Takes Amazon out of the picture. Thanks for the idea.
Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: ixtap on February 06, 2020, 11:00:44 PM
Feb 1:  $10 (pharmacy)
Feb 2:  $0
Feb 3:  $75 (grocery)
Feb 4:  $0
Feb 5:  $0
Feb 6:  $15 (grocery)
Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: centwise on February 07, 2020, 07:01:44 AM
@PMG: good for you for bringing your lunch from home! Looking forward to your next update. I find that posting here can sometimes help to bring indistinct goals into focus.

@ApacheStache: well done!

I had a good day yesterday. Actually it was just a very busy day with no time to even think about spending money. Tonight I'm going to a concert; the tickets are already paid for but I will buy daughter a beverage during the break.

Feb 1. $0
Feb 2. $0
Feb 3. $0
Feb 4. $0
Feb 5. $71.48 (40 for daughter, 31 for baby gifts)
Feb 6. $0

Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: ixtap on February 07, 2020, 04:49:46 PM
Feb 1:  $10 (pharmacy)
Feb 2:  $0
Feb 3:  $75 (grocery)
Feb 4:  $0
Feb 5:  $0
Feb 6:  $15 (grocery)
Feb 7:  $0

I think it safe to post early, because the only way I am leaving the house again today is if DH comes home and begs to do something for his birthday, which he has never done. I have no reason to even expect that he will be home at a reasonable hour. He doesn't do birthdays.

Tomorrow I am supposed to go to the pier to take sun sights, but it isn't looking like the weather is going to cooperate. If I go, we are meant to share lunch at the cafe.

Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: Sailor Sam on February 08, 2020, 07:37:08 AM
01-Feb: $0
02-Feb: $46 on groceries; $3 on tea
03-Feb: $0
04-Feb: $28 on witchdoctoring
05-Feb: $5 on a phone app
06-Feb: $31 on gas
07-Feb: $46 on wife

Running Total:
$156


What can be said? Ding Dong, the wife is cute and asked me for something. Pete ain’t gonna give me sex. Plus, like, I have love, or something? So....
Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: Serendip on February 08, 2020, 08:59:48 AM
Feb 1: $38 (liquor & a cookie)
Feb 2: $0
Feb 3: $0
Feb 4: $42 (groceries)
          $4.50 (a battery)
Feb 5: $0 (went XC skiing but I already have the pass and we are having leftovers for dinner :) )
Feb 6: $0
Feb 7: $25 (community fundraising event)
Feb 8: $2.50 (throat lozenges)
Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: PMG on February 08, 2020, 10:50:32 AM
This past weeks goals:

I want to go on two walks this week. -  I went on one, then the weather turned awful. flooding. snow. etc. so... just one.

I want to pack my lunch at least three days this week. - success.  4 out of 5 days.  Kind of.  Work was closed 2 days because of flooding, we stayed home and at ate at home those days.

I want to cook a curry. - did this with spouse's help.

I want to bake or make some kind of treat for my spouse. - made zucchini bread. 


Goals for upcoming week are still developing. Whoever suggested that I should track is probably right, but I don't have that in me this month. But I'm still working on things.

I bought a big soup bowl with a handle and lid and a sponge for dishwashing, both to keep at work. My old office had an assortment of things in the kitchen, the new one is bare, and down a flight of stairs and not appealing to eat in, I tend to just use the microwave then eat in my office. I think the bowl will help, definitely easier to carry. With the move coming up my eating in might just be instant oats and canned soup, but that's still a win for now!



Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: ixtap on February 08, 2020, 08:01:17 PM
Feb 1:  $10 (pharmacy)
Feb 2:  $0
Feb 3:  $75 (grocery)
Feb 4:  $0
Feb 5:  $0
Feb 6:  $15 (grocery)
Feb 7:  $0
Feb 8:  $170 (grocery), $20 (gas)


DH may be in his mid 30s, but he still eats like a teenager, calorie wise. Especially now that he has decided his daily walk isn't enough and he has started adding sprints. He went with me today, so we are well stocked on all of his favorite snacks, carefully curated after finishing the elimination diet last summer. I doubt I will have to buy any of those again this month. This is good, I think he was starting to think I was trying to starve him, since he didn't know how to make meals out of any of the things left in the cupboard.
Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: centwise on February 08, 2020, 10:56:04 PM
@PMG: good for you for bringing your lunch from home! Looking forward to your next update. I find that posting here can sometimes help to bring indistinct goals into focus.

@ApacheStache: well done!


Update: haven't fallen TOO far off the wagon...

Feb 1. $0
Feb 2. $0
Feb 3. $0
Feb 4. $0
Feb 5. $71.48 (40 for daughter, 31 for baby gifts)
Feb 6. $0
Feb 7. $3  drink at intermission for daughter
Feb 8. $0
Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: ixtap on February 09, 2020, 02:00:45 PM
Feb 1:  $10 (pharmacy)
Feb 2:  $0
Feb 3:  $75 (grocery)
Feb 4:  $0
Feb 5:  $0
Feb 6:  $15 (grocery)
Feb 7:  $0
Feb 8:  $170 (grocery), $20 (gas)
Feb 9:  $0

It is a rainy, sullen day, so we are just hanging at home. Actually, DH seems to be working. I did some work this morning, but I don't have the information for my committee work and I am not feeling inspired to write for our blog. That's the nice thing about non monetized blogs!
Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: Serendip on February 09, 2020, 02:47:23 PM
Feb 1: $38 (liquor & a cookie)
Feb 2: $0
Feb 3: $0
Feb 4: $42 (groceries)
          $4.50 (a battery)
Feb 5: $0 (went XC skiing but I already have the pass and we are having leftovers for dinner :) )
Feb 6: $0
Feb 7: $25 (community fundraising event)
Feb 8: $2.50 (throat lozenges)
Feb 9: $7.50 (toilet handle, ours just snapped)
          $11 (lemons & ginger)

It's my turn to make dinner, so I found a recipe that we had most of the ingredients for (but needed a couple things)--the lemons were expensive as our grocery story doesn't sell organic ones individually so I had to buy a bag ( the peels will be zested raw so I prefer organic for that). But I'll make other things with them this week so still ahead (also didn't buy the coconut cream and will try cooking with home-made coco milk from desiccated coconut..hopefully satisfying enough with a bit of additional oil!)

Also just cooked up granola which prevents me from buying the pricey one I normally like :)
Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: PMG on February 09, 2020, 03:15:33 PM
This weeks goals:

1) Pack lunch 3/5 days.  I cooked up a big batch of taco spiced lentils yesterday, so I have a head start on having some food ready.

2) Make some returns at Walmart. 

3) Bake a zucchini bread to give to the neighbor as a thank you.

4) Pack enough food/snacks to reduce evening eating out.  We have commitments three evenings this week.  One includes our biweekly Chinese dinner date, and that's a-okay.  The other is a valentines/date/art activity.  Also ok to buy a treat at, but, the goal is to have enough packed food that we can keep it at a treat, not a full meal.

We're in the midst of packing up the house.  Got a pile of free boxes.  We will hire a truck and some help for moving day.  I expect that to be around $150.  Not sure if that will happen this coming Saturday or next. We'll expect some take out and frozen food those days as well.

We also turned down two invitations out today and I didn't buy a fire pit because it was sold out when I went back for it.. so... win?



Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: SailingOnASmallSailboat on February 09, 2020, 05:04:33 PM
Feb 1: 94.56 boat parts and groceries, plus gas for the car
Feb 2: 95.56 boat parts
Feb 3:$0
Feb 4: $0
Feb 5: $0
Feb 6: $34.46 (groceries)
Feb 7: $0
Feb 8: $3.75 (boat parts)
Feb 9: $0

This week will be a little more challenging, as we're back home with access to better grocery stores, plus DD gets wisdom teeth out on Tuesday so I'll buy more goodies that a liquid-only mouth can handle (ice cream for milkshakes, that kind of stuff)
Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: Sailor Sam on February 09, 2020, 08:27:04 PM
01-Feb: $0
02-Feb: $46 on groceries; $3 on tea
03-Feb: $0
04-Feb: $28 on witchdoctoring
05-Feb: $5 on a phone app
06-Feb: $31 on gas
07-Feb: $46 on wife
08-Feb: $8 on food out
09-Feb: $0

Running Total: $167

I spent the weekend at a friend’s house, so drove about 200 miles round trip. I’ll need another tank of gas tomorrow. And food out was a circumstance I could have planned around.

I’m struggling a little with my motivation for a Frugal February. I’m already a high saver, with fairly modest wants. A few years ago, I discovered my personal balance between deprivation and the MMM ideals. Does my floor, below which I feel deprived, really need to be reset?  Maybe, and maybe not. I guess I still have 2/3 of a month to figure it out.
Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: ixtap on February 09, 2020, 08:55:42 PM
@Sailor Sam , I don't know if this will help you, but we are in a similar circumstance and I can tell you why I decided to pursue this.

1) GRATITUDE: The mindfulness involved in this process keeps me focused on being thankful for everything we have and all the choices we can make. Going out to eat is a choice. It is something we can afford. And it is something we enjoy once in awhile. If it gets out of hand, we start to take things for granted and don't appreciate them as much.

2) Future spending: We are both naturally frugal. With the exception of last year's boat refit, we normally save at least twice as much as we spend. We don't need to do any frugal exercises to make ends meet, or even to get to a respectable savings rate. The $100 or so I don't spend this month just won't make a difference in any of that. But it does remind us of what it is like to have to have that focus, which we will need for awhile when we transition to not saving. It helps us think about the future and how our wants might change in 20-30 years.
Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: mspym on February 10, 2020, 02:12:16 AM
I've just checked my gnucash and so far this month I'm at
$8 social - 5 stars totally worth it
$40 trains - this is the cost of earning money
$85 books - this was me falling prey to whole lot of spending fallacies for a vegan bundle. 
$135 - my share of the groceries. We maybe could have got this down because there was some baking ingredients in there for day 6 of torrential rain + boys.

So far it's been the books that I regret. That was just me being a silly goose.
Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: ixtap on February 10, 2020, 07:54:37 AM
@mspym , I do get books. Once upon a time, I needed a second bedroom just for my books. I like small spaces so much that the books and desk got the master, while I slept in the secondary bedroom. Six full sized bookshelves to down size when we decided to move to CA.
Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: mspym on February 10, 2020, 12:25:36 PM
@ixtap I have been slowly downsizing my books, including deleting things from my ebook library. It's more that I feel a bit like a sucker - I could have got the information elsewhere*, I am not interested in anymore arguments for going vegan, and I prefer physical cookbooks to digital. On the other hand if the 3 books I was interested in turn out to be useful, I can delete everything else and still break even.

*there are a lot of vegans and recipes on the internet. Why did I forget this for one brief shining moment?
Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: SailingOnASmallSailboat on February 10, 2020, 02:13:52 PM
Feb 10: $91.47 groceries  Not happy about this. Feels absurd for what I came home with.
Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: Serendip on February 10, 2020, 05:03:30 PM


1) GRATITUDE: The mindfulness involved in this process keeps me focused on being thankful for everything we have and all the choices we can make. Going out to eat is a choice. It is something we can afford. And it is something we enjoy once in awhile. If it gets out of hand, we start to take things for granted and don't appreciate them as much.


This is exactly why this process is a positive one for me..I already have access to so much and paring down to the essentials reminds me of how little extra I need materially in order to be happy.
I often can be an emotional shopper so this type of challenge also highlights my urge to shop as a way of bypassing tough emotions. Even for groceries (and especially alcohol) it keeps things in check.

I long to be naturally frugal but am not. Celebrating another zero spend day. :)
Thanks for starting this challenge!

Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: ixtap on February 10, 2020, 07:34:10 PM
Feb 1:  $10 (pharmacy)
Feb 2:  $0
Feb 3:  $75 (grocery)
Feb 4:  $0
Feb 5:  $0
Feb 6:  $15 (grocery)
Feb 7:  $0
Feb 8:  $170 (grocery), $20 (gas)
Feb 9:  $0
Feb 10: $1 (coffee)

I just took a bunch of food home from the boat so that it got used and forgot that DH saw what I was doing and grabbed some more things. Now I am stuck at the yacht club with my own kitchen 50 yards away, but no food. The coffee took the edge off and this particular meeting always makes me want to run away as fast as possible after. It is the same group of people that I skipped out on last Wednesday.

I will be sure to pack food for tomorrow's meeting and the class that I am teaching on Thursday! All bets are off for Friday. We don't usually celebrate St. Valentine's, but we have been asked to perform during the band break and we will likely get our meal comped for that. We aren't entirely sure that is going to happen, since we haven't heard back from the organizers, but it is easy enough to blame this one on DH, who is exempt from the challenge. I imagine he will also want to get Sprouts sandwiches for Saturday sailing. Hmmm, perhaps I should check that the flour and yeast really are on the boat so that I can make naan Saturday morning...
Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: ApacheStache on February 10, 2020, 08:08:04 PM
Feb 1: $0
Feb 2: $0
Feb 3: $0
Feb 4: $0
Feb 5: $0
Feb 6: $0
Feb 7: $0
Feb 8: $0
Feb 9: $0
Feb 10: $20. 1 year subscription of 100GB Google Drive storage. I was previously paying $2 a month, so this saves me $5/year.

I'm expecting a couple of larger expenses coming this week. One for a vet visit and another for the DMV. Luckily, I have non-emergency fund money earmarked for these yearly expenses, so my normal budget isn't going to take a hit.
Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: Sailor Sam on February 10, 2020, 08:31:58 PM
@Sailor Sam , I don't know if this will help you, but we are in a similar circumstance and I can tell you why I decided to pursue this.

1) GRATITUDE: The mindfulness involved in this process keeps me focused on being thankful for everything we have and all the choices we can make. Going out to eat is a choice. It is something we can afford. And it is something we enjoy once in awhile. If it gets out of hand, we start to take things for granted and don't appreciate them as much.

2) Future spending: We are both naturally frugal. With the exception of last year's boat refit, we normally save at least twice as much as we spend. We don't need to do any frugal exercises to make ends meet, or even to get to a respectable savings rate. The $100 or so I don't spend this month just won't make a difference in any of that. But it does remind us of what it is like to have to have that focus, which we will need for awhile when we transition to not saving. It helps us think about the future and how our wants might change in 20-30 years.

Those are both excellent points. Even as I was tying my original posts, I knew my malaise was partially just the “I don’t wanna’s” Fundamentally, I don’t want to rein myself in. I’ve convinced myself that my indulgences are all justified, but it’s not going to hurt me to challenge those once a year, or so.
Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: Sailor Sam on February 10, 2020, 08:35:09 PM
01-Feb: $0
02-Feb: $46 on groceries; $3 on tea
03-Feb: $0
04-Feb: $28 on witchdoctoring
05-Feb: $5 on a phone app
06-Feb: $31 on gas
07-Feb: $46 on wife
08-Feb: $8 on food out
09-Feb: $0
10-Feb: $35 on gas;  $6 on post-dentist treat.

Running Total: $208

I have to be drugged with Xanax to get into, and stay in, the dentists chair. The treat felt pretty justified at the time, but as usual, the total creeps up.
Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: SailingOnASmallSailboat on February 11, 2020, 03:17:02 PM

Feb 1:$94.56 (boat parts and groceries, plus gas for the car)
Feb 2:$95.56 (boat parts)
Feb 3:$0
Feb 4: $0
Feb 5: $0
Feb 6: $34.46 (groceries)
Feb 7: $0
Feb 8: $3.75 (boat parts)
Feb 9: $0
Feb 10: $213.99 (groceries, boat parts, boat insurance)
Feb 11: (YIKES) $2248.54 (wisdom tooth removal, associated drugs, therapy appointment - all medical, all known were coming)
Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: Sailor Sam on February 11, 2020, 05:06:17 PM
01-Feb: $0
02-Feb: $46 on groceries; $3 on tea
03-Feb: $0
04-Feb: $28 on witchdoctoring
05-Feb: $5 on a phone app
06-Feb: $31 on gas
07-Feb: $46 on wife
08-Feb: $8 on food out
09-Feb: $0
10-Feb: $35 on gas; $6 on treat
11-Feb: $0

Running Total: $208
Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: Serendip on February 11, 2020, 07:20:13 PM
Feb 1: $38 (liquor & a cookie)
Feb 2: $0
Feb 3: $0
Feb 4: $42 (groceries)
          $4.50 (a battery)
Feb 5: $0
Feb 6: $0
Feb 7: $25 (community fundraising event)
Feb 8: $2.50 (throat lozenges)
Feb 9: $7.50 (toilet handle, ours just snapped)
          $11 (lemons & ginger)
Feb 10:$0
Feb 11:$2 (gingersnap)

I didn't realize I was supposed to work today so was surprised to get a call enquiring where I was. Oops!
Rushed in and needed a snack to supplement my apple at lunch, so hence the little spend. 

We are getting ready for a trip and while most of my costs are covered, I'll need to be buying lunches and one night of hotel costs..plus any entertainment. Will try to keep it low but realistically am going to just go with the flow. Will make & pack some snacks for travel--airports are the worst.

Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: ixtap on February 11, 2020, 09:44:01 PM
Feb 1:  $10 (pharmacy)
Feb 2:  $0
Feb 3:  $75 (grocery)
Feb 4:  $0
Feb 5:  $0
Feb 6:  $15 (grocery)
Feb 7:  $0
Feb 8:  $170 (grocery), $20 (gas)
Feb 9:  $0
Feb 10: $1 (coffee)
Feb 11: $15 (sundry)

This was technically DHs spend, but I was the one who spent it so, here it is.
Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: centwise on February 11, 2020, 10:27:29 PM


My challenge for Feb: I'd like to see how many days I can go with zero spending. I know that I have to renew my gym membership on Feb 15, so I have planned for that and am omitting it from consideration. But other than that: my house is full of food, the gas tank is full, and I have no spendy social obligations for the next few weeks.

And when I do have to spend, I'll attempt to scrounge up some petty cash to cover it (e.g. a jar of coins, get bottle deposit refunds, etc.). [No side gig here.]

So here goes:




Feb 1. $0
Feb 2. $0
Feb 3. $0
Feb 4. $0
Feb 5. $71.48 (40 for daughter, 31 for baby gifts)
Feb 6. $0
Feb 7. $3  drink at intermission for daughter
Feb 8. $0
Feb 9. $0
Feb 10. $0
Feb 11. $25   school fee for daughter (field trip)
Running Total: $99.48

I've made it this far without grocery shopping! I've used up all the perishable fresh veggies, but I still have stalwarts like carrots, cabbage, onions and potatoes. Not to mention frozen beans, peas and spinach. I baked bread over the weekend and froze a quiche. But sooner or later I will cave and buy salad stuff (and I promise not to feel sad about it when I do!). I'm more than one-third of the way through the month and am still under $100. Huzzah!

Some spendier days coming up though: I've made plans for two social activities involving dinners out. Will try to steer them to good-value venues. Also might go to a see a play this week, but it is a student production so tickets will be a bargain!

Good luck, all; you are inspiring!

Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: centwise on February 11, 2020, 10:30:37 PM

Feb 11: (YIKES) $2248.54 (wisdom tooth removal, associated drugs, therapy appointment - all medical, all known were coming)

SailingOnASmall one: yikes is right! But most of us are recording only discretionary spending and I don't think wisdom tooth removal qualifies! Definitely a necessary expense. OUch, take care of yourself, feel better soon.
Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: SailingOnASmallSailboat on February 12, 2020, 05:13:51 AM
Thanks, @centwise ! They were our daughter's teeth - next month is our son's turn. You're right in that it's necessary, but then again so is grocery shopping. :)

This thread is helping me keep to my resolve of not buying things I'd like (but don't need) - like a new-to-me pair of jeans or the new food processor for the boat. I appreciate the inspiration!
Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: ApacheStache on February 12, 2020, 05:25:15 PM
This thread is helping me keep to my resolve of not buying things I'd like (but don't need)

+1

Feb 01: $0
Feb 02: $0
Feb 03: $0
Feb 04: $0
Feb 05: $0
Feb 06: $0
Feb 07: $0
Feb 08: $0
Feb 09: $0
Feb 10: $20. 1 year subscription of 100GB Google Drive storage. I was previously paying $2 a month, so this saves me $5/year.
Feb 11: $0. almost bought a $15 board game that was on sale, but decided not to once I calculated tax and shipping
Feb 12: $33. gas
Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: Sailor Sam on February 12, 2020, 08:10:53 PM
01-Feb: $0
02-Feb: $46 on groceries; $3 on tea
03-Feb: $0
04-Feb: $28 on witchdoctoring
05-Feb: $5 on a phone app
06-Feb: $31 on gas
07-Feb: $46 on wife
08-Feb: $8 on food out
09-Feb: $0
10-Feb: $35 on gas; $6 on treat
11-Feb: $0
12-Feb: $0

Running Total: $208

First time I’ve managed two days with zero spend. Woot!
Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: Dicey on February 14, 2020, 05:49:59 AM
Just chiming in to offer mid-month encouragement to everyone! I started doing No-Spend February about 15 years ago, when I was desperately seeking FIRE. I was inspired by Amy Dacyczyn, the famous Frugal Zealot. Financial blogs were not yet a thing. Her books were crazy inspirational, but not especially interactive. Every February, I would re-read her book(s) and shut off my spending completely. I had some amazing things happen as a result of my FF's. Now, seven years post-FIRE, I'm totally glad I did them, but they were excruciatingly lonely! I am so glad this community exists, and this thread in particular. To each and every one of you who is participating, I want to tell you that this effort has a huge payback and is worth every effort. Even if you fall off the wagon, it will be worth it. Climb back on and keep going.

Here's a tip that helped me. It seems that every year I bought something I intended to give as a gift and for whatever reason didn't or bought something for myself while holiday shopping that I didn't actually need, but was going to keep anyway. Around mid-Feb, when I was running low on fresh fruit and veggies, I'd look around for something unused that I could legitimately return. It helped that I'm a huge Costco fan and their return policy is so generous. Also, it's easy to be lazy about wrapping up those post-holiday chores, like returning unused gifts. Typically it would be under $50, but that buys a lot of fresh produce and milk. Even a small infusion of cash at this point in the month feels like a lottery win.

Caveat:  Work at Nordstrom for a decade and took scads of bullshit returns. You might say I'm somewhat returns adverse as a result. It's easy to stockpile unused gifts toward future gift-giving, but maybe you don't need to. I am not suggesting you do any bullshit returns, but that making the effort to wrap up any post-holiday details that will put a little bonus cash in your budget. It is worth the effort.

Which reminds me, I still have three Christmas gifts from Costco that didn't work out that I need to take care of. The formidable January out-the-door return lines have mostly abated, so I need to get off my duff and get it done....
Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: centwise on February 14, 2020, 02:56:45 PM
Thank you so much for the encouragement Dicey! I'm also an old fan of Amy Daczyczyn -- I checked out The Complete Tightwad Gazette from the library years ago. Shout out to Amy.

And now, to the update. I have good news! I'm half way though the month and still under $100 total with $0 grocery spending.


My challenge for Feb: I'd like to see how many days I can go with zero spending. I know that I have to renew my gym membership on Feb 15, so I have planned for that and am omitting it from consideration. But other than that: my house is full of food, the gas tank is full, and I have no spendy social obligations for the next few weeks.

And when I do have to spend, I'll attempt to scrounge up some petty cash to cover it (e.g. a jar of coins, get bottle deposit refunds, etc.). [No side gig here.]

So here goes:




Feb 1. $0
Feb 2. $0
Feb 3. $0
Feb 4. $0
Feb 5. $71.48 (40 for daughter, 31 for baby gifts)
Feb 6. $0
Feb 7. $3  drink at intermission for daughter
Feb 8. $0
Feb 9. $0
Feb 10. $0
Feb 11. $25   school fee for daughter (field trip)
Feb 12. $0
Feb 13. $0
Feb 14. $0
Running Total: $99.48


Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: PMG on February 14, 2020, 03:46:50 PM
This weeks goals:

1) Pack lunch 3/5 days.  5/5 though I stayed home one day which made that one easy.

2) Make some returns at Walmart.  Not yet, likely tomorrow.

3) Bake a zucchini bread to give to the neighbor as a thank you.  done!  And made a cake that I shared with coworkers.  I've been really needy during pregnancy.  Glad to finally give back.

4) Pack enough food/snacks to reduce evening eating out.  We have commitments three evenings this week.  One includes our biweekly Chinese dinner date, and that's a-okay.  The other is a valentines/date/art activity.  Also ok to buy a treat at, but, the goal is to have enough packed food that we can keep it at a treat, not a full meal.  success!  We shared a drink at our valentine's date and snacked on packed food.  We also shared a meal on Chinese dinner date. Partner did cancel one evening out, so that helped us. For Valentine's day dinner this evening it was my idea to pick up a frozen lasagna and garlic bread. More expensive than eating leftovers, or scratch cooking, but still a treat, and easy.  Can't get too ambitious or we just won't manage it.  I thought we'd just get a small lasagna, but the HUGE ones were on sale for less than the small ones, so we'll have leftovers for days.

I know I'm doing Frugal February Lite compared to most of you, but it has been working for me.  Setting my lunch goal at 3/5 tricks my brain into thinking it's doable, and then I can succeed!

I did slip up and ordered a cookie tray from the high school band fundraiser.  $15!! yikes. But... we've got a friend's daughter in the band, and both have gone through some hard times recently... so I guess... we're paying attention to them by buying expensive cookies?

This means I need to meet up with my friend to pick it up, so we plan to meet at the new local owned, hallelujah!we!finally!have!a! coffee shop in town tomorrow, and I'll spend a little money there, and get to pay a little more attention to her. 

AND! At our Valentine's date night P donated above the suggested donation.  It was just $15 for a local arts organization, but he gave $5 extra.  gasp. 

This is the first we've had any wiggle room in our budget for years and years and it does feel good to be able to give a little back to the community.  As we go forward we might need to make that an intentional budget line. 

Next week we close on the house.  I'm going to keep the same 3/5 lunch goal and expect dinner out one evening and see if we can manage to eat at home the rest of the time!
Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: ixtap on February 14, 2020, 05:33:52 PM
I have lost track of my tracking, but we still haven't spent on anything except food, gas and medicine, so I guess we are doing hunky dory.

DH's excessive hours finally caught up with him and he is in misery today. He insists on going to the dinner dance, even though I offered to cancel this morning.
Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: Sailor Sam on February 14, 2020, 06:47:45 PM
01-Feb: $0
02-Feb: $46 on groceries; $3 on tea
03-Feb: $0
04-Feb: $28 on witchdoctoring
05-Feb: $5 on a phone app
06-Feb: $31 on gas
07-Feb: $46 on wife
08-Feb: $8 on food out
09-Feb: $0
10-Feb: $35 on gas; $6 on treat
11-Feb: $0
12-Feb: $0
13-Feb: $33
14-Feb: $0

Running Total: $240
Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: centwise on February 16, 2020, 09:42:31 AM


My challenge for Feb: I'd like to see how many days I can go with zero spending. I know that I have to renew my gym membership on Feb 15, so I have planned for that and am omitting it from consideration. But other than that: my house is full of food, the gas tank is full, and I have no spendy social obligations for the next few weeks.

And when I do have to spend, I'll attempt to scrounge up some petty cash to cover it (e.g. a jar of coins, get bottle deposit refunds, etc.). [No side gig here.]

So here goes:




Feb 1. $0
Feb 2. $0
Feb 3. $0
Feb 4. $0
Feb 5. $71.48 (40 for daughter, 31 for baby gifts)
Feb 6. $0
Feb 7. $3  drink at intermission for daughter
Feb 8. $0
Feb 9. $0
Feb 10. $0
Feb 11. $25   school fee for daughter (field trip)
Feb 12. $0
Feb 13. $0
Feb 14. $0
Feb 15. $45.25 on two theatre tickets and parking


Running Total: $145
Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: ixtap on February 18, 2020, 06:18:39 PM
I bought a non consumable today. We needed a new car charger for our phones. I wanted a hardwired one because my phone has not always played well with plug and play ones. When I finally found a hardwired one, it was half the price as the cheapest alternative!
Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: ApacheStache on February 18, 2020, 07:59:06 PM
Feb 01: $0
Feb 02: $0
Feb 03: $0
Feb 04: $0
Feb 05: $0
Feb 06: $0
Feb 07: $0
Feb 08: $0
Feb 09: $0
Feb 10: $20. 1 year subscription of 100GB Google Drive storage. I was previously paying $2 a month, so this saves me $5/year.
Feb 11: $0. almost bought a $15 board game that was on sale, but decided not to once I calculated tax and shipping
Feb 12: $33. gas
Feb 13: $0
Feb 14: $616. Vet Appointment. I have money earmarked for vet appoints and pet care, but this wiped out most of those funds. Time to replenish the pet fund!
Feb 15: $0
Feb 16: $6. Interior light bulb burned out in the car
Feb 17: $300. This is my one and only big splurge for the month. Purchased some gym equipment that was on sale for President's Day.
Feb 18: $0
Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: centwise on February 18, 2020, 11:21:00 PM


My challenge for Feb: I'd like to see how many days I can go with zero spending. I know that I have to renew my gym membership on Feb 15, so I have planned for that and am omitting it from consideration. But other than that: my house is full of food, the gas tank is full, and I have no spendy social obligations for the next few weeks.

And when I do have to spend, I'll attempt to scrounge up some petty cash to cover it (e.g. a jar of coins, get bottle deposit refunds, etc.). [No side gig here.]

So here goes:




Feb 1. $0
Feb 2. $0
Feb 3. $0
Feb 4. $0
Feb 5. $71.48 (40 for daughter, 31 for baby gifts)
Feb 6. $0
Feb 7. $3  drink at intermission for daughter
Feb 8. $0
Feb 9. $0
Feb 10. $0
Feb 11. $25   school fee for daughter (field trip)
Feb 12. $0
Feb 13. $0
Feb 14. $0
Feb 15. $45 on two theatre tickets and parking
Feb 16. $48 dinner out with daughter
Feb 17. $0
Feb 18. $0


Running Total: $193

The rest of the week doesn't look so great: Dinner out this Friday, I also have a charitable contribution to make, and will definitely go grocery shopping over the weekend (need salad!!!). And I have to renew my gym membership this weekend; I said I wouldn't include that here, but I probably should. On the bright side: I still have half a tank of gas! I hope to make it to the end of the month without filling up.
Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: SailingOnASmallSailboat on February 19, 2020, 10:58:05 AM
Failed miserably this past weekend - driving 1500 miles between Friday and Sunday; Sunday we ate out both meals. Took youngest and friends to brunch to celebrate all being back together at college, then grabbed a quick BBQ dinner after stopping to see our son (also at college) for a fast hug.

And left our bag (with my kindle and hubby's Beat headphones) with daughter in her college dorm, 10 hours away from us. Not worth putting in the mail. So I resurrected a different kindle in the house, but it needs a cover, which I bought.

Oh well. The rest of the month has been gas, groceries, boat parts, and more boat parts. Oh, and medical expenses.
Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: ixtap on February 21, 2020, 01:59:16 AM
Good thing DH doesn't count. He just ordered a new phone. Of course, it is a base model and compatible with Mint, which will allow it to pay for itself by the end of the year compared to his current plan. His old phone can't be upgraded enough to work with  Megacorp's security measures.
Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: Serendip on February 21, 2020, 02:42:02 PM
Feb 1: $38 (liquor & a cookie)
Feb 2: $0
Feb 3: $0
Feb 4: $42 (groceries)
          $4.50 (a battery)
Feb 5: $0
Feb 6: $0
Feb 7: $25 (community fundraising event)
Feb 8: $2.50 (throat lozenges)
Feb 9: $7.50 (toilet handle, ours just snapped)
          $11 (lemons & ginger)
Feb 10:$0
Feb 11:$2 (gingersnap)

Feb 21: haven't been daily tracking as I am visiting Japan (!) Many costs were covered but have had to pay for one hotel and lunches/drinks..changed $300 CAD to yen and still have money left over with two days left (not the most frugal budget..but this is a bit of dream trip so I needed to be able to access all the ramen..) Thankfully the convenience store Onigiri (rice & seaweed triangles stuffed with a tasty filling) are also my favourite so when that is an option, I have lunch for $2) :) It's been great and could have easily spent a lot more since this place can be very pricey.
Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: Sailor Sam on February 21, 2020, 06:27:22 PM
01-Feb: $0
02-Feb: $46 on groceries; $3 on tea
03-Feb: $0
04-Feb: $28 on witchdoctoring
05-Feb: $5 on a phone app
06-Feb: $31 on gas
07-Feb: $46 on wife
08-Feb: $8 on food out
09-Feb: $0
10-Feb: $35 on gas; $6 on treat
11-Feb: $0
12-Feb: $0
13-Feb: $33 on haircut
14-Feb: $0
15-Feb: $32 on coffee & lunch;  $38 on community
16-Feb: $20 on groceries;  $5 on coffee
17-Feb: $0
18-Feb: $0
19-Feb: $16 on groceries
20-Feb: $30 on gas
21-Feb: $30 on shipping

Running Total: $411
Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: centwise on February 22, 2020, 04:53:07 PM

My challenge for Feb: I'd like to see how many days I can go with zero spending. I know that I have to renew my gym membership on Feb 15, so I have planned for that and am omitting it from consideration. But other than that: my house is full of food, the gas tank is full, and I have no spendy social obligations for the next few weeks.

And when I do have to spend, I'll attempt to scrounge up some petty cash to cover it (e.g. a jar of coins, get bottle deposit refunds, etc.). [No side gig here.]

So here goes:




Feb 1. $0
Feb 2. $0
Feb 3. $0
Feb 4. $0
Feb 5. $71.48 (40 for daughter, 31 for baby gifts)
Feb 6. $0
Feb 7. $3  drink at intermission for daughter
Feb 8. $0
Feb 9. $0
Feb 10. $0
Feb 11. $25   school fee for daughter (field trip)
Feb 12. $0
Feb 13. $0
Feb 14. $0
Feb 15. $45 on two theatre tickets and parking
Feb 16. $48 dinner out with daughter
Feb 17. $0
Feb 18. $0
Feb 19. $105 charitable contribution (planned)
Feb 20. -$154 !! rolled coins! deposited coins in bank!
Feb 21. $38 dinner out with friends
Feb 22. $18 groceries/supplies and...
            $27 for more goddamn baby gifts!

Running Total: $381 -$154 =$227.

Ok this thing about baby-gifts is OUT OF CONTROL! Thanks to this thread, I have resolved to RETURN THEM by next weekend. I still haven't sent the gifts that I bought earlier this month.

I also renewed my gym membership, as planned, but I decided to count that as a regular bill and am not listing it here with my discretionary spending.

I will pat myself on the back for finally getting that yogurt container full of coins out of my drawer. I hardly use cash anymore so I don't expect to accumulate many coins in the future. And my grocery spending this month is lower than it has ever been (so far).

One week to go for this Frugal February challenge!
Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: PMG on February 22, 2020, 07:34:02 PM
I can’t figure out if I posted goals for last week or not, but I did manage to pack my lunch 3 out of 5 work days. This has been making a huge difference for me. Self control and achieving a goal or two spills over into other areas.

We ate out once and both stuck to soup.

We’re mostly moved. Paid a friend $100 to help. $50 for four hours of his time and another $50 for use of his truck. He thought we were being too generous and we feel like he gave us a gift. He was so helpful.

Ordered a pile of things for the house, but so have  stuck to necessary and not fallen for any new cute organizing bins etc. It’s still adding up to be an expensive month. We’ve got a list of wants but we really want to settle first and see how many are needs. I even walked through goodwill tonight after dropping some things off and didn’t buy a thing.

I did pick up a pizza for moving day, at the walkable shop that was more expensive than I expected, but c’est la vie.


Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: ApacheStache on February 23, 2020, 12:43:51 PM
I can’t figure out if I posted goals for last week or not, but I did manage to pack my lunch 3 out of 5 work days. This has been making a huge difference for me. Self control and achieving a goal or two spills over into other areas.

Nice work. I've definitely noticed that this month I've managed to eat through the food that we have in the pantry and the freezer instead of rushing out to the grocery store to stock up on new food. I'll likely need to go grocery shopping next week, but I plan on using a $50 rebate gift card for that.

Feb 01: $0
Feb 02: $0
Feb 03: $0
Feb 04: $0
Feb 05: $0
Feb 06: $0
Feb 07: $0
Feb 08: $0
Feb 09: $0
Feb 10: $20. 1 year subscription of 100GB Google Drive storage. I was previously paying $2 a month, so this saves me $5/year.
Feb 11: $0. almost bought a $15 board game that was on sale, but decided not to once I calculated tax and shipping
Feb 12: $33. gas
Feb 13: $0
Feb 14: $616. Vet Appointment. I have money earmarked for vet appoints and pet care, but this wiped out most of those funds. Time to replenish the pet fund!
Feb 15: $0
Feb 16: $6. Interior light bulb burned out in the car
Feb 17: $300. This is my one and only big splurge for the month. Purchased some gym equipment that was on sale for President's Day.
Feb 18: $0
Feb 19: $0
Feb 20: $0
Feb 21: $0
Feb 22: $0

Running Total: $975
Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: centwise on February 23, 2020, 04:23:12 PM
Kudos ApacheStache! Virtually all of your spending is either planned or unavoidable (vet bills), and you are rocking it with all those daily zeroes.
Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: Serendip on February 25, 2020, 01:32:12 PM
Feb 1: $38 (liquor & a cookie)
Feb 2: $0
Feb 3: $0
Feb 4: $42 (groceries)
          $4.50 (a battery)
Feb 5: $0
Feb 6: $0
Feb 7: $25 (community fundraising event)
Feb 8: $2.50 (throat lozenges)
Feb 9: $7.50 (toilet handle, ours just snapped)
          $11 (lemons & ginger)
Feb 10:$0
Feb 11:$2 (gingersnap)

Feb 21: no daily tracking as I was overseas for almost 2 weeks

Feb 25: $71.00 (groceries)
            $25 (wine for bookclub)

Back home and needed a lot of veggies/frozen fruit. Should be good for food for the next two weeks, when my SO returns home. I'm happy to stick to a simple, healthy options (and yes, the wine is a bit much).
Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: ixtap on February 28, 2020, 03:26:59 PM
Well, we all seem to have petered out a bit, but our non gas, non food spending for the month was limited to one phone charger and one phone, which can't use the new charger, and some cleaning supplies. However, with Corona virus not too far down the road, I am reversing the empty the cupboards thing, but pasta, beans, rice, tofu... nonperishables are pretty cheap compared to meats and fresh veg.
Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: PMG on February 28, 2020, 03:54:39 PM
I made my packed lunches goal this week. Kind of. Was home 3/5 days. Packed stuff the other two but it was not enough (pregnancy appetite finally picking up?) so I had to buy some to supplement, but definitely a win for the pocketbook and health to start with home food. Wednesday night I cooked a big stir fry using up all the sad looking veg left in the fridge, and packed ahead for work, that ended up being closed due to weather and illness. 

I am right now in the middle of prepping another meal out of nothing. BBQ lentils and some oven baked french fries. Using the last bag of lentils and peeling the green off some puny looking potatoes. I’m definitely coming out of my morning sickness phase and finally able to eat and be more active! Hallelujah!

We’re prepping our list for a rather big grocery shop, the cupboards are pretty bare. For the sake of this thread I should put it off until Sunday but it fits our schedule better for tomorrow. 

In conclusion, I haven’t been as frugal as many of you all this month but it has been just the encouragement I needed!  I will continue with my 3/5 lunch goal each week indefinitely.
Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: ApacheStache on February 28, 2020, 07:49:25 PM
Kudos ApacheStache! Virtually all of your spending is either planned or unavoidable (vet bills), and you are rocking it with all those daily zeroes.

Thanks centwise!

Feb 01: $0
Feb 02: $0
Feb 03: $0
Feb 04: $0
Feb 05: $0
Feb 06: $0
Feb 07: $0
Feb 08: $0
Feb 09: $0
Feb 10: $20. 1 year subscription of 100GB Google Drive storage. I was previously paying $2 a month, so this saves me $5/year.
Feb 11: $0. almost bought a $15 board game that was on sale, but decided not to once I calculated tax and shipping
Feb 12: $33. gas
Feb 13: $0
Feb 14: $616. Vet Appointment. I have money earmarked for vet appoints and pet care, but this wiped out most of those funds. Time to replenish the pet fund!
Feb 15: $0
Feb 16: $6. Interior light bulb burned out in the car
Feb 17: $300. This is my one and only big splurge for the month. Purchased some gym equipment that was on sale for President's Day.
Feb 18: $0
Feb 19: $0
Feb 20: $0
Feb 21: $0
Feb 22: $0
Feb 23: $0
Feb 24: $0
Feb 25: $51. Groceries
Feb 26: $0
Feb 27: $0
Feb 28: $0

Running Total: $1,026

Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: cupcakery on March 02, 2020, 09:47:30 AM
February went well.  I bought coffee out twice when I was dragging and was out of the coffee/tea that I had brought to work.  The only other thing you could say I splurged on was taking my kids to an art studio over school vacation week.  ($72)  Overall I came in under budget and put a lot into my sinking fund for some expenses that are going to hit over the next few months.
Title: Re: Frugal February
Post by: centwise on March 02, 2020, 02:27:09 PM

My challenge for Feb: I'd like to see how many days I can go with zero spending. I know that I have to renew my gym membership on Feb 15, so I have planned for that and am omitting it from consideration. But other than that: my house is full of food, the gas tank is full, and I have no spendy social obligations for the next few weeks.

And when I do have to spend, I'll attempt to scrounge up some petty cash to cover it (e.g. a jar of coins, get bottle deposit refunds, etc.). [No side gig here.]

So here goes:




Feb 1. $0
Feb 2. $0
Feb 3. $0
Feb 4. $0
Feb 5. $71.48 (40 for daughter, 31 for baby gifts)
Feb 6. $0
Feb 7. $3  drink at intermission for daughter
Feb 8. $0
Feb 9. $0
Feb 10. $0
Feb 11. $25   school fee for daughter (field trip)
Feb 12. $0
Feb 13. $0
Feb 14. $0
Feb 15. $45 on two theatre tickets and parking
Feb 16. $48 dinner out with daughter
Feb 17. $0
Feb 18. $0
Feb 19. $105 charitable contribution (planned)
Feb 20. -$154 !! rolled coins! deposited coins in bank!
Feb 21. $38 dinner out with friends
Feb 22. $12 groceries, $6 household supplies and...
            $27 for more goddamn baby gifts!
Feb 27. $35 gas. First fill-up of the month! hot damn I lasted a full four weeks on a single tank.
Feb 27. $88  groceries
Feb 27. $17 household supplies (shampoo, conditioner, kleenex)
Feb 24-29. $20 for parking, various places and times.




Running Total: $541 -$154 (coins) =$387.

Wrapping up frugal February:

My total discretionary spending is not tiny: $541.  But this thread helped me to focus my spending on the experiences that are important to me: outings with friends or daughter, tickets to arts events, and a charitable contribution. Outside of those categories I spent very little. And I also added to the coffers by rolling $154 worth of coins -- Yay!

Lesson learned: I spend too readily on unnecessary gifts. There are a couple of new babies in my extended family; I already bought baby gifts in Dec, and again in early Feb, and then again in late Feb! This is simply unnecessary. So I'm adding a page in my spreadsheet to plan and budget for gifts. I forgot to return the last set of gifts (See Feb22 entry above) -- but reviewing this thread reminded me that I still have to do that. I think I will have time to do it tomorrow.

I ended the month with a major grocery shopping spree. But overall my grocery spending ($100 for Feb) is way below budget and my restaurant spending outside of planned social events was zero (so, no coffees, lunches out or snacks). And my fridge is well stocked with fresh food for the next two weeks. So I'm off to a good start for a Miserly March!

I'm happy to have participated in this challenge! Thanks all.