digital photography courses chicago
I've always been something of a hedonist cheap. If it's going to break the bank, or it is not fun, why do it? Yet, in this economy, I have been reduced – on everything, including my fun money. Instead of buying movie tickets in promotion Through my work, I downgraded my Netflix to two videos per month and has started drawing on my library card. I learn cook and always bring my lunch to work. I've always been a thrift store maven, and I am keeping a list of all the things I need once the garage sale season starts. I do not own a car, and decided this year will not be the year I buy one.
Although I was able to save more, it was not enough. Colleagues in my industry took 20% pay cuts that have left their approach to bankruptcy and I tremble in my boots. Will I be next? This terrifies me, but I know that the only control I was prepared for the worst while hoping for the best. I do not want to save less, and I refuse to lower contributions to 401k, so I decided I needed to cut my expenses to less than 60% of current levels.
As I browse through the statements, I realized my prioritization of expenditure means that I will not have to sacrifice as much as I'd thought. In fact, many of the changes I'm saving money while at the same time, reduce stress and increase my happiness.
Museums
I visit all major museums Chicago, once a year and pay full price. Libraries Most cities have free tickets available to residents, and I'm totally on this gravy train this year. I must reserve well in advance, but hey, I'll get to go for FREE. I will also take part in walks gallery – free, regular visits as visiting galleries district.
Grocery
I am positively phobic products chemicals in foods and products I buy, but holy cow organic is expensive. To save on groceries, I'll venture to area farms during the summer for you, picking fruit and vegetables, and I'm going to buy poultry and meat from the Amish, about three hours from home. A friend and I are going to learn to can. I'll be able to eat locally grown, in-season, organic, free-range food all year for much less than I spend at the grocery store. In addition, I am improving my pathetic kitchen "skills".
Festivals and Parks
I live in Chicago, a city famous for its summer festivals. I'll enjoy these coming months, particularly movies in the park and free concerts.
Park Districts are incredible resources. Where can I take a course digital photography for $ 30? I'm going to take to improve my photos while making friends with similar interests. Maybe we can go to the photo taking adventures in the classroom? Win-win!
Crafternoons
This year I'll invite friends to crafternoons potluck. This Sunday will be fine with my girlfriends, full of mimosas, son and laughter. I also hope to learn dyeing and soap making. Definitely one of my friends can teach me? Free?
Exercise
I love cycling, I am totally and completely happy. Then I'll spend a pretty penny on a good bike, eliminating the gymnastics club I do not use it. I will be the bike to work along the beautiful lake City, and I'll use the gym at my work in the morning. Bonus – my work has a bike room and showers!
Gifts
I love gifts, and always spending excessive quantities of 2 or 3. To save money, I have budgeted for Christmas, Hanukah and key birthdays, and have a box in my closet labeled "present". Throughout the year, I'll be on the clearance of Christmas shopping, and store them until birthdays and holidays roll. I give you also the most often produced Hand items this year, so most of my craft heads directly into the box. Hopefully I'll get the hang of canning so that I can give homemade jellies, jams and fruit butters for the holidays!
These are just some ways that I am limiting my expenses while maintaining or improving my quality of life. Pinching pennies does not necessarily mean poverty. In fact, I'm really looking forward to bike to work and to have friends on the occasional Sunday. Readers, what steps have you taken to save money? How these changes have improved your life?
About the Author:
Shannon is the author of the blog Musings of a Fat Chick, at http://musingsofafatchick.blogspot.com. She blogs about life, infertility, body acceptance and crafts.
Article Source: ArticlesBase.com – Budgeting for Fun
Digital photography degree – Harrington College of Design
