This week I surveyed the mountain of coupons around here. Sadly, there are too many to use by the expiration dates. I have access to a drop-off facility for discarded newspapers and grab Sunday inserts frequently. However, I can’t really use 15 coupons for cereal by the 31st of October or 20 coffee coupons. I hate throwing them out, as it feels like wasted money.
While I was pondering this, it occurred to me how much couponing has helped me, personally. Quite honestly, if it were not coupons and learning how to maximize their benefits, many times over in my family’s life we would have really struggled. The road of a single mom is typically a fiscally challenging one.
By using coupons we’ve gained extra items and actually had a far better life. Shampoo, conditioner, facial products and makeup all bought with coupons have satisfied even my most picky teenager’s inner diva.
A few times coupons meant the difference in how much food we put on the table or the quality of what we were consuming.
Currently, I find a freebie or two every week and stockpile these. Staples or personal care products become my kids stocking stuffers. Toothbrushes, shavers, lotions and makeup- these otherwise expensive and necessary items make Christmas morning fun for all of them and I’ve not over-spent. In years before I learned to budget, I could drop sixty or seventy dollars on small useless fodder for stockings. Now I spend hardly anything by using buy one get one free deals and coupons, plus the frequent reward bucks.
My kids have learned a lot about budgeting from couponing and a few life lessons. The other day, daughter number 3, (age 17) wanted an item that wasn’t on sale while we were shopping. We agreed together, that by using coupons and a sale later, she’d get more for her money. My daughter put the product back and decided to wait. Learning to wait, instead of giving into immediate gratification is a life lesson and skill kids need to experience and develop. I was proud of her for showing maturity in that moment.
During my mulling on this, it occurred to me, given how much coupons have helped me, others could benefit. I stopped off at a Senior Center and unloaded my surplus. A few ladies hugged me. I’m pretty certain they know what it’s like to watch their pennies, given the fixed budget many of them operate with.
If you are new to this process of learning to save and couponing, you will find it addicting as your life style acquires added perks. It’s exciting to spot deals and make your money stretch. Remember to share this with your kids as they grow. Teach and allow them to wait for a wanted item. When you accumulate extra coupons, share them with others in need. Those few dollars saved, to someone on limited or fixed income, can greatly enhance their lifestyle, as well.
Save, share, and be well.