Mother’s Day on a budget

 This year, for Mother's Day 2023, I am celebrating on a budget. As I am currently not working, I have been finding ways to appreciate what I already have, rather than going on a shopping spree. I have found that there is something quite special about taking an old, used item and transforming it into something new again.

One of the ways I have been doing this is by "shopping" in my own closet. I have been refreshing items that I already own to get excited about them once more. One idea that worked particularly well for me was adding a $22 bag straps to my collection.

 

This simple addition allowed me to refresh my Hermès Evelyne and vintage Louis Vuitton make-up bag, and I was pleasantly surprised by how much it changed the overall look of each handbag.

By changing the strap, I was able to give myself another option for the Hermès Evelyne, transforming it into a cooler shoulder bag. I also loved how the large acrylic matte chain with gold rings gave me the chance to mix metals with the silver hardware on the bag. 

Overall, I found that making small changes like this can have a big impact and give old items new life.

"Why Excessive Designer Purchases May Not Be Worth It"

 

For as long as I can remember, I've been obsessed with designer fashion. I would go to great lengths to get my hands on the latest pieces, from camping outside stores to scouring online marketplaces. My closet was overflowing with high-end items, including handbags, shoes, and jewelry. I always put designer clothing before everything else, even travel. I would save up for months just to buy a new piece.

It wasn't until I found myself unemployed that I began to realize the true cost of my obsession. Looking back, I can see that I spent a staggering amount of money on these items. While I enjoyed them at the time, I now regret buying so much. The thrill of the purchase would fade quickly, and I would be left with an overwhelming sense of guilt for spending so much money on a single item.

As I started to reassess my priorities, I began to see that my love for designer fashion had become a burden. I no longer felt the same urge to collect designer pieces or to have 10 different designer handbags or shoes. Instead, I started to appreciate what I already had and to avoid the temptation to constantly buy the latest designer trends.

One thing that has helped me recover some of my expenses is the fact that some of my items retain their value. I've been able to resell them and get some money back. In fact, I've spent the last few weeks going through my collection and selling the pieces that no longer spark joy. By doing so, I'm recycling the money and investing in classic pieces that will withstand the test of time.

Looking back, I wish I had been more mindful of my spending habits and invested in experiences instead of material possessions. I now realize that the thrill of the purchase is fleeting, but the memories of a great trip or experience will last a lifetime. Nonetheless, I'm grateful for the lessons I've learned and the opportunity to reassess my priorities. I'm excited to see where this new mindset will take me in the future.

10 Ways I prepared for Unemployment

 Since I have been on a financial Diet, I have cut my spending down, paid off debt, and saving more money.  At the same time do things that makes me happy.

Starting in the Spring 3 Months I am not working so I have to tighten my budget even more. Here are 10 ways I prepare for unemployment. 

1. Pay off credit card debt, 

2. Cancel subscription 

3. Cut expenses 

4. Pay up as many expenses for 2-3 months 

5. Cut back on spending 

6. Sell any and everything 

7. Work Side hustles 

9. Use Groupons, gift card and Fun Jar

10. Saved money

This is when I rely on savings, selling stuff and working my side hustles.  I also rely on reward programs to supplement my purchases and Groupons, gift cards and Fun Jar for activities.  During this time I challenge myself to save money.  Who saves money while they are unemployed?  Since I paid some expenses 2 months ahead, I only have one full month of bills to pay.  That way I am not stressing over money during these 3 months I am off.   

Now  that I prepare myself for unemployment I can relax a little and have fun playing in my closet.