Happy New Year! Probably not as happy as usual with the economy in the pits, and all. Yesterday, I proposed to my husband that we try to avoid eating out for an entire year. Not that easy. I view this feat most challenging because of the social obligations and/or traditions and/or habits. Meeting friends/family in a restaurant is a way of bonding and catching up. So, it’s Jan 1st, and we already have a date to meet with friends tomorrow, Jan 2nd. I’m not going to be draconian about it. One lunch at a casual eating establishment is not a big deal. But, I will be keeping tabs for this year.
A big way to cut back on food expenses is to take a serious look at how much you eat out. According to the USDA, Americans can spend up to 44 percent of their food budget on eating out.
My husband and I have already cut back on eating out. But, I know we can do better. Last night, for New Year’s Eve, we went to our favorite restaurant “Tofu House”. It’s casual and moderately priced. The total came out to about $26. I sat and savored every bite, knowing that I was to embark on this challenge. At face value, $26 isn’t much. But, I’m sure that would eat up (pun intended!) more than an entire day’s budget.
Today, we had Puttanesca (a pasta sauce) that I made and froze several weeks ago with pasta that I purchased at Costco. Then, for dinner, we ate my aunt’s house. That means we’re starting the year without touching our budget. Feels good.
