Save money, then treat yourself.

I've been horrible during the summer, spending way too much money on a lot of nothing. Note to self: just because it's on sale, doesn't mean you have to buy it. So last month, I decided to tighten the purse strings a little bit. It wasn't too hard but there were a couple of moments when I felt liked calling a friend.

Just when I thought I would break, I received my CC statement and wow, I was quite impressed! Every month, I usually spend about $500-$600. And this is just for personal things. The Hubby and I have a separate joint CC that we use for grocery bills, cable, gas, etc. Anyway, this time, I only owed $250! And that included the stuff I bought on our trip to V.egas!

Pretty good, huh?

Well, my streak ended a couple of hours ago.

You see, I've been eyeing this adorable cardigan sweater and delicious boots for the past few weeks. I wanted to buy them right away (online purchase) but I refrained myself. However, I couldn't stop thinking about them so I finally caved. I went to the site and... the boots were sold out! WAH. I guess I could have gotten the cardigan regardless but the shipping price wasn't worth it (better off buying two items).

(You can't tell, but the cardigan is grey with tiny accents of blue, black, purple and mustard yellow.)

I was extremely disappointed. I wanted to find something special to wear for our girls night out this weekend. Yesterday, I went to one of my favourite stores in hopes of finding something suitable. I almost bought a few items but it didn't feel right. I asked myself if I really love the items and the answer was no. They didn't give me the same 'feel good' feeling that the cardigan and boots gave me when I first saw them.

Anyway, moving on.

So today, I went back to the online site (actually, I check everyday) just to see the new arrivals and guess what? They restocked the boots!!!! And you guessed it, I bought them together with the top. I'm so excited! After taxes and shipping, the price was just over $100 and you know what? I don't feel guilty because I haven't purchased anything in awhile PLUS, I know that this was not an impulsive decision. And I think that's how I should approach personal spending. Once in a while, I can 'treat' myself to something special. But when it becomes an everyday thing, I don't think I can call it a 'treat' anymore... it's called an addiction.

Anyway, I really hope my items will arrive in time for the night out but I think it's cutting it too close. I might have to find another outfit (from my closet!) but that's okay, I'm sure I'll find another occasion to wear them! For some of you, the cardigan and boots may not appear as special but I'm a jeans and sneakers kind of gal. To me, those are fancy!