Unemployed? Broke? Live a little.
March 12, 2009
St. Charles County
by Kris Kolk
Watching episodes of Real Housewives recently, it occurred to me how they never drink from lidless sippy cups. Even while consuming their mandatory six glasses of water, they do so from elegant stemware. Not only that, but these socialites are consistently decked with bangles and baubles. Oh and how they love to rub elbows!
Yes, the rich and famous exude panache. But is that because they are rich and famous? No. Their status merely allows them to expect a particular lifestyle. That does not mean they are the only ones permitted to indulge. Heck no!
Here are some ways to enjoy such privilege without cracking a nest egg. Spoil yourself, Sweetie. Be a little fussy even!
Raise your pinky, Dahhhling.
Practically every household has funky or fancy dishes which rarely get table-time. Bring them to the front of the cabinet. (So what if they need hand-washed? It’s worth it.) Bask in change. Feel pampered.
Blingage.
No, no--not $20,000 bracelets. That’s just silly. But even reality offers hope. Isn’t there a forgotten pair of dangly earrings in the jewelry box? Frame your face like a portrait with them! Catch a glimpse in the mirror. Feel like a million bucks, even if the earrings were picked up at a garage sale two summers ago.
Party! Party!
Big money does not a party make. Guests are the event (You knew that). Invite some buds over and then just fill in the blanks. Light candles. Infuse the background with soothing tunes. Nosh on grapes, crackers, cheese slices and a bottle of wine. Desserts can be inexpensive yet elegant. Make shortbread or try a new cookie recipe. For a snazzy effect, drizzle thinned white icing over just about anything. Lovely. This fantabulous spread can be had for around $20 (depending on number of guests, of course).
Clean up your act.
It costs next to nothing to have a tidy home. Just go for the illusion of clean—don’t knock yourself out. Open the curtains and bask in sunlight. Ahhh.
Now that’s living!
Copyright 2009 Neighbors About Town
