We had a baby shower for a girl at work today. I was a little worried because we had vowed to try and not spend as much for the rest of this month. I was trying to think of what I could get her that she could use and wasn’t too expensive. I know her mother in law has purchased a lot of items for the baby.
I had to make something for the luncheon, so I decided I would make a taco dip because that was easy to make and everyone enjoys it. When I got home, I realized an important thing. I forgot to buy a gift. After I got done kicking myself, I decided I was not going to go back out and I was going to make do with what I had. I had a lot of scrapbooking items left over, so I made a handmade card, and after that I saw the light bulb go off in my head: I had a pair of longies (wool baby pants) I had knitted this summer that would make an amazing gift. I went into my spare bedroom, found them, went to my basement and re used a bag I had received a gift in, and there I was! A beautiful baby shower gift for $0. Of course I had to buy the yarn and materials, but had I not been creative, I would have gone to the store, spent $20 on a gift, and then probably found something else I “needed”.
Sometimes it pays to be creative. I was so proud of myself, and when she opened the gift today, I felt so much better about my decision. She loved the fact that I had made them myself and it was a very thoughtful gift. Being frugal requires you to think outside the box a lot. I’m glad I did, and I know she’s grateful for the beautiful handmade gift.
What is something creative you’ve done to save money?
Posted under Save Your Money
This post was written by Mrs Money on September 23, 2008
