Continuing my series on what I've learned during the recession, today we'll explore the art of staying in.
I wouldn't say that I exactly went out every night back in the bubble economy heyday, but as a couple that really enjoys great food, fine wine and scenic ambiance, when my husband and I would go out, we really went out! Nice restaurants, cocktails at upscale bars, you name it. A night out was sometimes in the neighborhood of hundreds of dollars... just for the two of us!
After the economy took a turn, those nights out were quickly eradicated from our life. Staying in has the only thing on our agenda for most of the last year.
But, that doesn't mean you can't have fun. You just have to remember how to enjoy the simpler things in life. In fact, we've had a really great time.
Here's some of what I've learned:
1. Sometimes, the best thing in life is a home cooked meal. I'm lucky, both my husband and I really enjoy cooking. But, even if you aren't a master chef, you can master some basic recipes that feel special. Think of your favorite dish at a restaurant and try to google a recipe. Try something simple to start (the Food Network offers me some inspiration, but go with whatever works for you) and you'll be amazed what you can accomplish. Some really simple recipes (roast chicken, grilled steak, a simple tomato sauce over pasta) can be really satisfying. Give it a try. A dinner for two at home can cost just a few dollars per person, while a dinner out can easily approach $100.
2. Wine doesn't have to be expensive to be good. There really isn't any reason to spend more than $10 for wine. Ask a salesperson at your local wine store, they won't look down at you for asking about good, cheap wine - in fact, I guarantee that most places will have some great recommendations. One great tip is to try wine from places other than California and France - those are the ones that are the most famous, and you pay for that. Some of the best wine I've had have been carmeneres from Chile, savignon blancs from New Zealand or malbecs from Argentina.
3. One word: Potluck. Invite a bunch of friends over and have everyone bring a dish to share and a bottle of wine or soda. For just a few dollars a person, you'll have an amazing spread. Plus, you'll get to discover which of your friends have hidden cooking talents!
4. Join Netflix. Seriously, going to the movies can easily cost $20 bucks for two (especially once you've gotten soda and popcorn). If you don't mind waiting a few months to see a movie, you can see all you want for much less.
5. Be creative. Think about what you like to do when you're out with friends and think about how you can recreate that experience at home for less. Also, don't forget how much fun something as old school as board game (or video game) night can be... all that matters is that you're with the people you care about.
*** I'd like to give a shout out to the blog Hundred Goals which is featuring this post as part of the Carnival of Money Stories - Creme de la Creme Edition. I'm so proud to be a part of this. If you've visiting from Hundred Goal, thanks for stopping by! You might be interested in some of my other Recession Lessons - check them out!
Comments