Thursday, March 27, 2008

I shredded my Target card

Yes, I did.

I shredded my Target card.


My beloved.


The one with the hypnotic little silver targets all over it that beckons me to spend money on things I only think I need.


The worn out, over used, save my sanity Target card.

It's history.


So what, that they send me that ridiculous 10% off coupon to thank me for spending a million dollars? Woo Hoo! This only makes me think I am saving money and that I need to use the card in order to get these coupons. And it is not really saving me any money because I go there when I really don't need anything just to use the coupon! You reeled me in hook, line and sinker Mr. Target marketing guy. And the same goes for you Mr. Old Navy and Ms. Kohls. But I'm on to you now!


So, after last month's Target bill and my hubby's response, I decided the only way I could nip this crazy Target spending was to cut that card up and use only cash when I am in there.


**sigh**


I just really love that store.


So, as a matter of fact, I have now cut up every single credit card I have except one for emergencies only.


Why did I do this, you ask? Don't I just have enough willpower to not use them?


Well, in one simple answer - no.


And since they are not sending stay at home mom's big paychecks any time soon, my poor hubby, who prefers to pays for everything with cash, has to pay for my material girl ways. Well, I guess he could let me go to debtors prison, but I think he likes me too much for that.


Is there even such a thing as debtors prison anymore? Well, I don't want to find out.


Sweet understanding man that he is, has paid a lot of these bills for me. I guess, I just finally realized, I either have to get a job or get my spending habits into check.


I like my job as Stay at Home mom, volunteer crazed woman and now blogger, though - so...


First step. Cash only. Shred cards. Stay away from Target.


What is it with that store? Do you think the target really does actually have some kind of hypnotic powers that draw us into it? I mean even my kids suggest it when they are bored.

When the Sunday paper comes, the Target circular is really the first thing I look at. I know, I need to get a life, huh?

Second step - do not shop out of boredom. Clean my house. This is why there are so many posts about cleaning this week. No Target equals a cleaner house. I cleaned again today! 3 days in row- it must be a miracle. Luckily, it is getting warm outside, so I can work in the yard or better yet, play with my kids. I can write more blog entries! Just think about all the things I can get done...not shopping.

I think this is going to be hard. So, how 'bout it, can a girl get some sympathy here?

Matthew 6:19-20

9 comments:

Stefani said...

I feel your pain girl! I had to cut myself off about a year ago. There is just something about Target that is Oh So Inviting! Now, when I do go there I have a list and only buy what's on it. And I always pay cash. It's a tough road, but I know you can do it!! You are now free from the Target bond! :)

--
Stefani

Kim said...

You go, Girl! I'm proud of you...cutting up your cards AND honoring your husband AND being transparent AND asking for accountability AND cleaning your house AND playing with your kids AND volunteering.

You have more than enough to fill your time. No more boredom for you.

Jean said...

Good for you! I heart me some Target too, and if it wasn't clear across the other side of town, I would be there every weekend.

Sarah said...

Good for you.

It's been a hard winter here. When it's too cold to do anything else, we head for the mall or Target, just to get out of the house. I have to constantly ask myself, "Can I live without it?, Do I love it? and Would I pay full price for it?"

Barb said...

Well, I need to take a lesson from you! I haven't dusted in weeks.

I've only had one credit card for the last 12 years or so and I pay the full balance when the statement arrives. It took me years to pay off my "mountain of stupidity". I truly learned the hard way that if I can't pay cash, I can't afford it. My savings account thanks me every month.

Oh, it wasn't easy and I did without many things, but I was determined to be debt free. It was worth it!

I applaud you for making that choice, and I have no doubt that you'll be glad you did.

The Buntens said...

Oh wow! Thanks so much for the encouragement and ideas! I really appreciate them.


Janel

Queen B said...

Great post!! Great verse!! I would be wise to stay out of there myself.

Impressive!!

happygeek said...

There isn't a Target (or Kohls) in Canada. Maybe you could move then you won't be tempted at all!:)
Good for you shredding the credit card!

Christi S said...

oh, how I know that feeling. We were teasing the boys about stopping by Target on the way back into town from the inlaws tonight and they got UPSET about the fact we didn't stop! I think you're on to something with the hypnotics! LOL

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