I think i am up to six POS purchases and need to have ten by the tenth. This is crazy. I was going so well with the not spending any cash plan. Now I HAVE to spend cash.

I went to the dollar store today and got a few things I cuold use, but nothing I actually needed.

I need a better plan or a different bank (WELLS FARGO, you are peeving me off!)

I am still irritated at Wells Fargo. They haven't returned the fee to my account. And apparently i need to make two more purchases this month to prevent another service charge. Or more. It's hard to tell by looking at my online statement. I am super annoyed.

Jilly, I did not know that about Wells Fargo. But I do make more than ten POS charges a month.

You really inspire me. What a great challenge, though, to see how little you can spend each month. I am careless about spending and tend to be impulsive.

We went grocery shopping today, and I used coupons for the first time in a long time. They tempt me to buy products I typically wouldn't buy. Today, we had to buy sundries that add a lot to our bill, like shaving razors, deodorant, toothpaste, toilet paper. As for food items, I needed olive oil and that is pricey. It was on sale though.

Brought my hubby which seems to change what we put into the cart.

Jilly, I paid the monthly bills today. I just wanted to chime in on the Wells Fargo debit card. As I understand it, the banks are looking for any way they can to make money. As if those huge bailouts weren't enough! I think they have realized that people caught on to how dangerous credit cards are to their finances and went to using debit cards. Now the banks figure that's where they can get the money.

I, too, try to stick with paying cash and I am inspired by your frugal lessons. Wouldn't it be lovely to find a way to beat the banks?

Beat the banks! I am inspired by this. I am going to start researching. Thank you!

Lori, there are secrets to using coupons to make things almost free. Just using them in general never really seems to be that helpful. I need to start a coupon using thread.

These things you mentioned:shaving razors, deodorant, toothpaste, toilet paper - no one should ever pay more than 50 cents for these items.

I bought Lisa Shea's new mediaeval novel today in the Kindle version.

Wow Jilly! No more than 50 cents for deodorant or toilet paper?

Please tell us more and start that couponing thread. That would be like found money and I know I could sure use it.

At the dollar store I spent a total of $2.66 tax included, for three greeting cards and a three-pack of toothbrushes.

Good job, debbie! There must have been a special on cards?

Sandra, I will totally do this. do you have a walgreens or CVS near you? That is my area of expertise with buying things for almost free.

Today I bought an herbal tea at a coffee shop, and earlier this week i had to spend $67 to fill my tank with gas, since I am camping for the next month or so.

I did turn off my electric at the breaker, so that will save me some money this month.