Monday, February 23, 2015

That Time I Got Tricked...

Last week was a long and tedious week at work, which caused many tempers to flair. But what really set it off right was the oil change.

Yes, the car was due for an oil change and being the frugal one had a coupon and went to the location (which shall remain unnamed) early in the morning. My goal was to be able to get out in under an hour and give myself enough time for a bigger breakfast and some tidying up before heading off to a long day of work.

At first everything seemed to be going okay, they accepted the coupon and told me it would be only a small while. I sat down with my book, across from an older couple and then the wait began...

After an hour I went up to them and asked, how much longer and they said shortly, of course, everything will be finished...

And then it became an hour and a half...


And as we approached two hours my patience was for the most part worn thin.



After multiple times of pestering that I had to get going only then did they tell me they were done and the total.

$62.42.

Yes, I told them that this was too much and I had asked for a conventional oil change. Was I upset yes, but after two hours and only enough time to get to work without a minute to spare, there was nothing I could do but pay and leave fuming.

It makes me upset that my budgeted amount was totally ruined and they clearly took advantage of me and a new car. Honestly, it's a lesson learned which means from now on, the boyfriend will be coming with me to all future car appointments.



Have you ever had a frustrating experience that you write off as a lesson learned? 

Tuesday, February 3, 2015

Days off and Frugal Ways...

While working during the week, do you ever daydream what it would be like to explore your hometown or a neighboring city without the flock of annoying tourists? Or just even take a day off for the fun of it?

All that artwork and so little time...



Besides spending the whole day at the spa (because wouldn't that be awesome) there are so many exciting and frugal things to do that can occupy your whole day.

Exploring the local library and possibly checking out books: Maybe you'll peruse the new books section and make your way over to the magazines for awhile. You never know what you'll find there and what you will end up checking out!

Really study the artwork at your local museum: Many museums give discounts during specific days which makes it an even better deal! Spend time really looking into the depths of a portrait or analyzing every angle of a sculpture.

Taking a long nature walk: Perhaps discovering a new park has been on your to do list for awhile. Or your usual walk has been interrupted by a few inches (or feet) of snow. Take a peek at what is open and meander around for a bit. At least it will give you some fresh air and some much needed Vitamin D!

Trying out a recipe that requires that extra effort: Whatever it might be, you know it's the recipe you love making, but on almost any other day, it would be midnight before you sat down to eat. Take the time to make it extra special either for your or your loved ones.

Work on a project that has been left by the wayside: You know which one I'm talking about. That one exactly. The one that has been left on the side table in the spare bedroom that has not seen the light of day in over a year. Go ahead, just finish it off to check it off your checklist. The last 5% is the hardest but won't you feel a bit better?

Appreciate the time off: There are many people in the world who only dream of having a day off but have to work consistently to provide a home for their loved ones. Taking a few minutes out of the day to take a deep breath and find contentment is important.



Having a day or even a few days of relaxation doesn't have to be expensive. They can be even better if done during the week because you miss out on all the crowds.


What's your favorite frugal activity to do on your day off?