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Really Stupid Things People Spend Money On (vol.1)

© Stacey A. Zhe

I would like to say a sincere thank you to the people who inspired me to write this week’s article. Here’s a salute to those naïve over-spending strangers that grocery shopped parallel to me this week.

Note: What may seem logical to someone could easily be viewed as impractical to someone else. We all have our little splurges, no matter how frugal we are; it's just my goal to enlighten others who may not have thought of other options. In other words, I’m sorry if this offends you: if you feel you need to use something I label “stupid” please do, and disregard my opinion. If I have gotten you to at least think about an alternative, I’ve done my job.

Those Stupid Little Things…

Water: Why do we buy this? I admit I have been guilty of this as well in the past. Unless you are traveling, (and can’t drink the local water), have a medical condition that warrants this purchase, or for some reason get it for free, try instead keeping a pitcher of water in the fridge, or like of friend of mine does: take left over juice/pop bottles (or used water bottles) and use these instead. Keep them in the fridge filled with water. When you need them grab and go!

Ice: I know you’re in a hurry, you’re going camping, hiking, picnicking or on an unexpected trip. I understand, but next time, try either freezing lots of ice in advance, buying reusable ice packs, and/or trying a tip from my mother-in-law: save plastic juice bottles or milk jugs. Fill with water leaving a small space at the top, for expansion after freezing. Use in cooler, and when melted, use as drinking water.

Chocolate Milk and Chocolate Syrup: Unless extremely cheap why buy chocolate milk? Instead use chocolate syrup and stir. Chocolate Syrup… why buy this when you can make it for cheap. (I will include this recipe in next week’s article).

Hot Chocolate:. You can buy a product from a little Swiss girl (or rich manufacturer), or you can make your own.

Popsicles: Plastic cups, juice and craft sticks…voila!

Convenience Cookie/Brownie Kits: Please don’t fall victim to these traps. If you feel you need to use these, buy on sale or some other way extremely inexpensively..

Insect Repellant: Instead opt for oil of citronella, and mix with a cheap lotion. You can also try using fabric softener sheets. Rub over yourself and family, and not only will bugs leave you alone, but you will avoid static cling!

The copyright of the article Really Stupid Things People Spend Money On (vol.1) in Saving Money is owned by Stacey A. Zhe. Permission to republish Really Stupid Things People Spend Money On (vol.1) in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.