The austerity plan - week 1

So how did I do with all of the belt-tightening measures? Pretty good! I packed lunch 3 days this week; I avoided babysitters, shopping, take-out, and fancy dinners; and I did my shopping for the week on Sunday, only buying generic, sale, or coupon items. According to my Dominick's receipt, I saved $30.49! Given that my total bill was $86.54, I'd say that's doing pretty well.

I have to thank Kylie for emailing the tip that really made the difference. By signing up for Dominick's Just for U online, I was able to load virtual coupons onto my Dominick's Fresh Values card so they were automatically processed at check out. I planned my meals for the week based on the coupons I loaded and things that I knew were going to be on sale, so shopping was a breeze. I got milk for $1.17, cereal for $1.75, bananas for $0.35, a pack of chicken breasts for $3.11...you get the idea. Thanks Kylie!

Now, I did still go out twice this weekend -- to brunch with Courtney Sat morning and out for pizza with friends Sat night. But neither meal was pricey and we're just getting into this whole savings thing, so no big deal!  Hopefully I can continue to make improvements every week!