How to let it all go

I have had A LOT of comments lately from friends about how they get in a grocery store and think about me and getting deals. Well, to keep it real there are times when it is worth sanity to pay more. I thought I would share some ways that I have spent more lately figuring time is more valuable than money...

• I have been using my dryer instead of hanging clothes- with the exception of the day my dryer was broken. I needed to get the clothes washed and put up more than I needed to save $.50 a load to hang dry.
• My husband bought a video and I had a $5 off coupon. It is just not worth driving and fighting traffic to return it and rebuy just to save $5.
• My husband and I went shopping today. I did not have one coupon. I paid $120 for two days worth of food. I was hungry and bought a cheese ball and crackers, Pillsbury cookie dough, a frozen lasagna, corndogs, and other items to snack on the next few days.
• I am going to make Pillsbury cookies instead of homemade. I bought sprinkles and some cookie cutters to decorate them with.
• We started a tradition 11 years ago when my son was born on December 22nd. I came home on the 24th from the hospital and we just went and bought a lasagna to have Christmas. My husband told me he loved that I was not cooking all day and how relaxed it was. We now have a lasagna every year. I have given up trying to make a perfect meal. I was going to make a homemade lasagna but really just am out of steam and picked one up.
• My garland is still not finished. We came home last night and I don't care to work on it for a day. I think I will just put it away and can do it next year.
• I bought frozen waffles and stuff to make a breakfast casserole. Quick meals made ahead of time so I am not in the kitchen.
• Sorry teachers, but not one is getting a present this year. My first time to skip this. I really appreciate them but just didn't get anything this year. I think December lost some days this year.
• Um, ditto neighbors and friends. You will not be getting cookies or bread or special treats. I will wave when I pass you- or quickly turn my head and pretend I didn't see you so I don't feel so bad.
• Um, please don't check your mailbox for a Christmas card. I feel like such a rebel.

I look at some blogs out there and can easily become intimidated and feel like I am not measuring up. I cannot do it all . When I craft or decorate laundry piles up and no one eats. I desire to decorate so much more and make so many gifts and cook all the special meals but I can't do it all. For everything there is a season and it is not my season. I tell about the store deals so that you can take advantage and use your money more wisely. I hope you never feel intimidated or like you don't measure up. I have had a lot of comments lately that seem to say that others are feeling that way. I don't take advantage of every deal- I pick the ones best suited for my time and money. Sometimes it is worth spending more for your time to spend with family.