Giving Back

I have finally decided, splurging is good for mental health.  It has been a rough road for me to come to this conclusion.  But the important part is to plan for splurges to make them more meaningful.  By deciding what means more to you, a weekly coffee date at Starbucks, or saving for a big TV, either way the little bit of waiting will make it worth it.  Since I spend less time buying and shopping for groceries I don't need, I save that time and money to enjoy myself at Starbucks or give back to small businesses.  I recently decided that our family snow day tradition would be donut holes from our local donut shop, The Sugar Shack.  Their prices, service, and products are better than a certain chain donut shop.  I bought a big box and froze the leftovers for future snow days, because that way it comes out a little cheaper.  We can only have them if there is no school for our town, or maybe for delays too, I haven't decided on that yet.  If I think we will have too many leftovers at the end of the season, I will find other excuses to treat us.

Also, I have enjoyed spending my Great Harvest Bread Company gift card that my husband got me back in October as a birthday gift.  I made it last longer by finding coupons in local papers.  Buying bread from this bakery will also become a monthly tradition for our family as a wholesome treat.  I love baking my own bread, but I enjoy their bread as well and it gives me unique ideas to try at home.  I like how they give out sample slices to taste.

My family deserves to have little treats in life and I like finding a way to support local businesses and small chains in the process.  My time and money goes to more important things and hopefully will create traditions for us to enjoy in the long run.

-Tanya