Shopper's Remorse

Sometimes we all feel the need to get away. Your stressed, aggravated with the kids, mad at your spouse. I had one of those days myself just yesterday. My first impulse was to go to Frankfort hit some shops, take my laptop and hide in a back booth of a restaurant and stay away from everyone for the entire day. As I was locked up in my bathroom, I started getting this pang of guilt. Not for wanting time to myself, but for the money that would be blown, just as a release for my frustrations and need to get away. How much money would I spend? $15-$20 dollars at the Mexican Restaurant that I would probably go to. At least $10 in gasoline. What deals would I find at the craft store? What about great deals on clothes I may come across for myself or my family? No one of my family really NEEDS any new clothes. Yet the money was going to add up fast.

There had to be a better way. As I realized I was about to fall off my path to a more frugal and conscious way of living. I thought "Well, what am I going to do then!? I'm sure not sticking around this house!" Then I thought about how I've been meaning to go out on the boat by myself. So that is what I did. Money spent? None. I had a good relaxing time, I packed a lunch and some plant identification books. Learned new things about the creek and surrounding area, got a little bit of exercises. And now I don't have to feel bad about blowing money unnecessarily. Instead of spending the entire day away from the house, I was completely refreshed and ready to be back with my family in 2 1/2-3 hours.

I know not everyone has a boat to go rowing away on. But there are several places that you can walk to, or even just go for a walk. Light excise does wonders for mental clarity and it increases dopamine levels naturally, making you feel happier. No matter where you live you can always take a walk. It's amazing how much more you notice when you slow down a little bit. I found that we have sugar maples growing right around us, even a huge one right on our property we put the boat in the water. The schools of fish is something you never see when you use a trolling motor like my husband. I learn what a Greater Crane sounds like when it is calling. Not pleasant, like a goose with a hoarse throat.

Give it a try, there is something that you can do besides go and spend money. You will feel better knowing that you can be practical and not impulsive and wasteful. Impulse is good, just save it for fun or romance (wink, wink).