Lets help stimulate the economy...

**MRAHoffman** · 01-30-2009, 04:30 PM

OK, I know this is crazy, but every little bit helps. I'm curious, if we DO get payroll tax cuts in the stimulus package, and BECAUSE it will take our "spending" (now calm down and hear me out) to help revitalize the economy, why couldn't those of us that are STILL working take 1/3 (or whatever you feel comfortable doing) of the extra $ in our paycheck and do our part to help stimulate the economy? I'm not talking about going crazy, BUT use that 1/3 and go to a local restaurant for dinner? Instead of buying everything at Walmart (because it's cheaper), use that money at your small local grocer or farmer? Or if you need a small gift, buy it at a local shop (or go on Etsy and support our Frugal friends products). THEN take 1/3 of the remainder and put it on a bill and the other 1/3 and save it. If NO one spends ANY $, it will take that much longer for our unemployed sisters and brothers to get employment. I'm not saying to go on a spending spree (as we know that is what got us here in the first place), but do some "thoughtful" spending to help the economy...even our local economy. Ok, NOW you can beat me up

Take care and God bless.

**MomToTwoBoys** · 01-30-2009, 04:53 PM

It sounds like a great idea. Rebuilding the economy locally benefits people more than buying it from large-scale corporations that manufacture their goods overseas.

I believe it's something that people should have been doing in the first place. It's not a bad thing to be spending money in an area that's likely to help you keep your job than outsource it later on.

**thefrug** · 01-30-2009, 04:59 PM

Well, I've done bought a brand new gas stove. And it's paid off now, so next is a new fridge. Thats the best I can do right now. LOL
we go to a local place for breakfast every saturday morning.
I'd like to find someone here in my valley to buy my eggs off of but I can't find anyone and darn it!, I know they have chickens cuz I see them when I'm driving past! LOL I go to local shop for my cuts and coloring and not a chain store. I'm trying here, but I can only do so much being in the boonies like I am LMAO!

**IntlMom** · 01-30-2009, 05:26 PM

I guess this would be a fine place to "confess" that a few weeks ago I got a brand new matching front loading washing machine and dryer, complete with pedestals.......
paid for with cash -
(suppose I could say "I'm doing my part, eh?)

(I got a phenomenal deal....but still , I got 'em!)

**madhen** · 01-30-2009, 05:45 PM

I am bad about driving right by the local produce guy to get to the Bel-Air. And on my last visit to Bel Air, the only fruit I bought was blood oranges and bananas because the rest of their organic fruit was from Chile! (I have nothing against Chile, but I also have no guarantee that their "certification" for organic would withstand U.S. scrutiny.) I will have to check to see if the local guy has organic fruits/veggies. If he does, I'll buy from him. Thanks for reminding me, Rhonda! Think global, shop local!!

**Contrary Housewife** · 01-30-2009, 05:48 PM

I always shop local if I can. Not just stores near me, but non-chain businesses run by my "neighbors".

Last summer's "stimulus" got spent at a local independent flooring store. I buy locally produced brands and produce at the grocery store. I don't mind that it might cost a few cents more, I'd rather see the money stay in my state than go to some conglomerate paying foreign workers.

**pinetree** · 01-30-2009, 06:16 PM

I'm thinking about supporting my local farmer. He wants us to purchase 1/2 of a beef. Right now he said live weight is down to .85 a pound. That means a big savngs to me & helps him out too.

**sabrelvssammy** · 01-30-2009, 06:29 PM

to the frug:

call your local co-op and ask them for the name and number of a farmer that sells eggs...they will help you out.....

**nandmsmom** · 01-30-2009, 06:31 PM

I try to buy locally if possible. We actually own 2 small businesses, so we understand what its like.

**heartofmine** · 01-30-2009, 06:32 PM

It does sound good. If we are going to get the economy going its "we the people" who are going to have to do it. I live in a small town but have to buy groceries from one of 3 big company stores. because I have no choice. There is one local grocer but I refuse to go there anymore for 2 reasons...1 was the last meat I bought from them was spoiled and 2 they price gouged on gas big time during the gas troubles. They are in trouble for it.

Anyway I do buy my fruits and vege's at the local fruit market owned by friends of ours. Its so much fresher and a lot cheaper than any of the grocery stores. My prescription meds I buy from a local pharmacist. Vitamins and other natural items I buy from a local couple who has a store. Furniture, hardware items, building supplies all locally. Pretty much everything besides groceries and a few things I can't get in any other place is bought from local people.

**elphie** · 01-30-2009, 06:37 PM

Originally Posted by IntlMom

I guess this would be a fine place to "confess" that a few weeks ago I got a brand new matching front loading washing machine and dryer, complete with pedestals.......
paid for with cash -
(suppose I could say "I'm doing my part, eh?)

(I got a phenomenal deal....but still , I got 'em!)

You mean you went out and paid CASH for a product that will save energy and $$ over time... I'm shocked!

**elphie** · 01-30-2009, 06:38 PM

I think this is a thoughtful way to stimulate the economy while still standing by your frugal values.

**thesightofoneself** · 01-30-2009, 06:40 PM

my glasses broke the other day. had them for less then a month. so i had to buy another pair. and i bought a new hoodie since i lost weight. feels good knowing the me losing money now will hopefully benefit someone.

**IntlMom** · 01-30-2009, 06:53 PM

Originally Posted by elphie

You mean you went out and paid CASH for a product that will save energy and $$ over time... I'm shocked!

I know....can you IMAGINE?!?!

**mnmarty03** · 01-30-2009, 07:05 PM

I admit, I tend not to buy locally - though in the on season I love to buy from the local farmer markets. I shop at chain grocery stores mostly - Kroger and Wally World. I do go to a non chain hair salon.

I could use some improvement...

On the other side, I'm getting married in just under 2 months and am spending a TON of money (mostly cash) for the wedding. That should help the economy, at least a little!