Frugal Me

I am not completely frugal as I get serious itches to shop and don't use coupons - I usually wait for things to go on sale or shop at discount stores. On days when it is particularly bad, I buy a pack of gum, a book, or something small for Daniel. However, I am frugal enough that I have have not purchased a handbag since the very first Handmade Market back in May 2006. My last pair of shoes were purchased at the end of summer 2007 when I was pregnant with Daniel and had tired feet, but before that it might have been for my grandmother's funeral over Easter of 2006. Flip flops don't count.

I had an old beach bag from Target that I picked up for $12 several years ago and it has been my beach bad, diaper bag, and unfortunately the main accessory on my shoulder other than the cute little boy we like to call 'Scooby'. The lining has long since fallen apart and anything put in an outside pocket inevitable migrates to a dark, hidden chamber on the bottom of the bag. We lost the digital camera that way for several days once. My keys have been known to get lost in the billowing lining as well.

Today, Daniel and I hit up Tjmaxx way out on New Bern and 540. I found a bag I like. It's still a tote-all-purpose bag, but the lining is intact and it is waterproof on the outside, which will make wiping off cookie goo and spit an easier task. I think it's big enough to hold my stuff, a couple diapers, snacks, and a couple toys. One of these days, I am going to get a "real" handbag, but I'd probably feel like a little girl walking in her mamma's shoes if I did.

*Correction: I do use coupons, just not in a consistant or organized fashion.