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Splurge a little and treat yourself … without breaking your budget

March 16, 2009

I was excited when I saw the headline of a money story on MSN.com not long ago that promised to write about “mini splurges to make you feel rich.”

The subhead of the story said, “Luxury may be out of fashion right now, but almost every budget has room for small indulgences here and there. These offer a big punch without breaking the bank.”

I love the idea of luxury, and I love the idea of treating myself, so I delved in.

(I should note that my idea of a splurge is eating Hagen Daaz out of the carton or getting a manicure once a year.)

Clearly “almost every budget” was the operative phrase. The majority of splurges were out of budget range for many people. Lunch at a

New York City restaurant with a lunchtime tasting menu starting at $35 was one splurge. Sure dinner at that restaurant will cost you over $100, but $35 is a splurge that could bust a lot of budgets. So is a $30 tube of lipstick or a $125 handbag.

The price of some these indulgences surely has something to do with the fact that the writer is splurging in

New York City. But that doesn’t help those of us who aren’t in

New York City.

So, I would like to offer up some “splurges” that may be more affordable to those of us with budgets that don’t have as much wiggle room.

Splurge on your time. Let’s face it, for most of us time is a luxury.  A lot of us spend our days running from place to place and trying to cram in more activities than there are hours in the day. Set aside a couple of hours of peace and quiet for just you. Make a cup of tea, grab a good book or put on a favorite movie and snuggle up for a few hours. Try to forget about the laundry, the dishwasher that needs to be emptied or the errands you have to run. Just relax for a bit. All of those other chores will still be there.

Look for free events.  For example, once a month on

Penn Avenue

in

Pittsburgh there is an art walk sponsored by the local galleries. Many of the galleries have entertainment such as musicians or readings. Plus, some of the galleries have appetizers, wine and beer for the visitors. It doesn’t cost a dime to go and look at interesting and beautiful local art and have a snack or a drink.

Have a joint cocktail party. Get together a group of your friends and ask everyone to bring their most appealing appetizer or decadent dessert and a bottle of wine.  One person with the most space can host, but since everyone is pitching in on food and drinks, it will defray the cost for everyone.

Eat dinner by candle light with the “good” plates and silverware. Some people have wedding china or silver stashed away in a closet. There’s no reason you can’t have a frugal yet romantic dinner at home. Dim the lights and use the china and real silver. Pick an item to “splurge” on for your dinner. If you like steak, spend extra to get some good steaks. If you love dessert, order your favorite dessert from that great bakery in town.

What ideas for “luxury” splurges do you have?

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Written by admin · Filed Under Misc. 

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