Shoppers Anonymous anyone?

[maiaann]

I cross-posted this in the "suggestion box" forum as I'm not sure if it's appropriate here or not. Ironically, the "Bargain" Forum is where I seem to get in the most trouble!

I'd really like to curb/gain better control of my spending habits (especially with the holidays right around the corner). I'd love to start a "Shoppers Anonymous" support section. Is anyone else interested?

[Babymakes3]

DH would sign me up in a heartbeat! He discussed with me the other day when he brought a box in from the porch that just bc it's a great deal doesn't mean I HAVE to buy it!

I just started reading a book called America's Cheapest Family Gets You Right on the Money and this one is in my library waitlist, Cut your Grocery Bill in Half with America's Cheapest Family. They have some good ideas but I simply cannot do everything they are doing to save money. I have neither the time, patience or storage space to put their entire system into play.
I think I am going to do a little experiment for the next few months and after a little figuring i'm going to give myself a smallish monthly budget, cash only, and make it stretch as far as I can. It will be hard with Christmas but honestly my house is looking like TRU and I already have most of ds's winter clothing bought. I figure now is as good a time as any to start!

[ang79]

My DH would be right on board with that too! I've been trying to be really good lately. Thanks to the KMart and Target sales in August, the girls are covered for birthdays and Christmas and I think we're good on clothes too (I try to shop end of season sales and buy ahead for the next year). There are just a few basics that I am still looking for but I'm going to try to scout CL and my local consignment shop for those things.

My biggest problem is Ebay. I love stalking Ebay for a great deal and my current obsession is fun bags/wallets for me. I know I have way more than I need already (in my defense I've been trying to sell some stuff), but I'm currently obsessed with finding a Vera Bradley Pleated Tote for an awesome deal. I did just empty out my PP account into our bank account to help with upcoming bills and I'm trying to not buy anything else with paypal until I sell something and get more cash in my account.

On another note thought, I've decided to declutter and have started selling off toys, baby clothes and gear, maternity stuff, etc. to get some extra cash for the holidays and just to get rid of the clutter. I'm off to a good start with that!

[MomtoNico]

I probably need a bit of help too. My two Sons have way way too many clothes. I am constantly trying to find room for my new purchases. I am suprised my DH hasnt said anything to me yet! Its not only the money but the time. My DSs dont like to shop. I love it. I spend too much time on the computer while they are sleeping and not enough time cleaning the house. I dont shop for me much and I dont spend alot of money. I do shop at CVS alot- I get to shop but dont spend money. I give what I dont use away to family and friends.

[atroxnixfemina]

I'm shamelessly stealing this information from another board I'm on - some of these resources may be helpful for those in need:


Resources for help with shopping addictions

If you feel like you are having a hard time controlling your shopping, below are some resources that might be helpful for you.

http://www.spenders.org/home.html
http://www.addictionrecov.org/spendaddict.htm
http://www.indiana.edu/~engs/hints/shop.html
http://hffo.cuna.org/story.html?doc_id=353&sub_id=12433
http://money.cnn.com/2005/07/20/pf/shopper_0508/

[charmcitymom]

Hello atroxnixfemina,

Thanks for sharing this very helpful information! These are great resources.