While I was growing up, my family was transferred several times, all over the Midwest. Around the time when I was in junior high school, we ended up in Mankato, Minn. Of all our moves, this place was my favorite, and I still look back on it with fond memories.
Fast forward 20-some years to 2010. I’m shopping at my suburban Chicago grocery store when all of a sudden a chartreuse-green tub on the shelf jolts me out of my speed-through-the-discount-center daze. The display of Kemps Top the Tater is like a blast from the past, conjuring up all sorts of memories from my ‘tween years in Minnesota. I considered buying out the whole selection, for fear I’d never see it again, but eventually decided on just one container.
The impact of discovery
I suppose that you’re wondering what the heck I’m doing writing about a condiment in the middle of a frugal-living column. I can see your point. The fact is that for the last several weeks, this tiny green tub that costs just $1.98 has brought me lots of joy. I’ve had fun telling Minnesota stories to my kids while we eat it together; I’ve bought it for friends and served it at gatherings. Hey, I’m even writing a column about it. This Top the Tater stuff must be pretty good!
Spend a little, get a lot
In the midst of my celebration, I realized that spending a few bucks on a simple pleasure is sort of well, wonderful. Finding something that gets you remembering good times, feeling happy or just plain tastes great and doesn’t break the bank is a very good thing. Sometimes, spending a few bucks is worth it; having a go-to item that leaves a smile on your face is even better.
Take the challenge
What are your simple pleasures? I bet most of them are still doable even in a tight economic climate. Bubble bath? A yellow tear-drop tomato plant for your garden? Downloading a new ditty for your iPod? All these things are downright cheap, but just might be power-packed with endorphin-producing glee. Consider it your frugal challenge to dream up your own affordable and satisfying splurge this week and then, gulp, go out and get it!
Molly Logan Anderson is a freelance writer who lives in the western suburbs of Chicago with her husband, Mike, three kids and black lab. Join Molly on her family’s journey of living a frugal life and making financial freedom their reality.
