20 cents

This was supposed to be short. But turned long. I'm sorry.

I could be getting my nails done, my hair done and purchasing new make up

(that I've never really owned or knew how to use)

I'm not saying all humble me for not having little luxuries in life

(I can be jealous of Instagram from time to time)

But for the most part, we just buy groceries and pay the bills.

Maybe a few household items from time to time

like a can opener that finally works

Okay Okay, and even something big like a plane ticket

or that bike trainer we've been talking about for months

(and are still talking about)

How do families live on smaller incomes?

Cause most of America does.

It baffles me how lucky we have it.

But I really don't get how other people afford to live.

That is assuming, they can how they are.

We're fine, don't get me wrong.

Especially without kids and with me getting a job, 

but if I see how quickly money leaves wellsfargo.com

(because let's face it, it never really goes through our hands)

I know it hits hard on others,

and I feel for them. 

But for many people, I see them with all these "things"

i.e. grocery carts filled to the max, the latest technology, fancy homes etc...

and i'm like is anyone else as picky about the price per ounce as I am?

I'm over here in the frozen section debating about 20 cents.

20 cents.

Apparently someone has found a better strategy. Please share.

Cause if everyone is just waiting for some big ship to come sailing into their dock.

Well, then they are stupid.

I feel like 20 cents adds up. Please tell me if it doesn't and I'll stop the mental exhaustion now.

I just keep thinking about future mouths to feed, unexpected emergencies, loans, future responsibilities and it's overwhelming. Who can plan for retirement anymore!?! But that's the thing, 20 cents really does matter to me. Cause even if we're lucky enough not to live month to month, we should be, mentally.  As in you shouldn't be spending more in a month than what you're bringing in; I don't care if you have savings; you'll quickly realize you don't.

It's hard when we say "this will last us a long time" or "we don't normally purchase this every month" but there is always something, something that can easily put you over every month.

As soon as I get something off that wish list, something else hops on.

(which really tells you something about real happiness)

Like this laser for hair removal at-home

who knew this existed!?

It's completely unjustifiable.

Except for the fact that I'd be incandescently happy.

Mr Smith just thinks it will cause cancer.

I said I'd look into it.

One day, I'll have best friends living next door

And we'll share everything.

Okay Okay, I'm really okay.

I'm not overwhelmed because I trust things will work out

whether or not I get a personal laser hair removal system

And Mr Smith & I make a great team.

I'm just baffled at the people around us.

I splurged this week at Costco.

I got roasted red pepper hummus and pita chips.

Yeah, I'm lucky. And I'm definitely okay with that.