Cheap Living: Spring Shopping List
As a new homeowner, there is plenty to buy. Last year my wife and I moved into a three-bedroom, 3.5 bathroom house from our one bedroom, one bathroom apartment. Needless to say, the following weeks and months are still blotted-out of my memory due to the excessive spending that ensued. Items, which to me are non-essential, such as throw pillows, rugs, and wall decorations began popping up all over the house. That was a tough time for me. Now we’re settled and have most of the little things we need for day-to-day life, but there are several items we will need to purchase soon that we don’t have. And something tells me, we'll never be "done."
First, we need a lawnmower. Our yard is very small, but I’m not going to be the guy who borrows the neighbor’s lawnmower all summer. We need one of our own.
Second, we need blinds on the middle floor of our house. We bought ultra-cheap mini-blinds for the basement and third floor, but our middle floor is where we spend most of our time and my wife has managed to convince me that blinds in the living room and family room should be a little nicer. Due to the large windows we have in these areas, a custom product and installation will likely be required.
Third, we have decided to have a deck built on the rear of our house. I’m tired of grilling in the driveway and some of the neighbors’ decks look so nice. I see them partying out there and I’m jealous. It will significantly increase our “living area” off our family room and kitchen, which are both at the rear of the house. Not to mention that it will make our house much more appealing when we eventually decide to sell.
Next week we’ll start the adventure. This foray into the consumer jungle will not be pleasant, but I’ll be packing my elephant gun just in case any of these animals get out of line. I'll have a new Cheap Living blog installment every Tuesday from now until I’m out of money. Sit back and enjoy the ride, because I’m so cheap, that might take a while…
Until next week… happy non-spending!
