Too Expensive And I’m Not Buying It Anymore

It's no secret people are struggling financially. This is NOT a political post and has nothing to do with politics. It has to do with just plain old life.

I'm finding there are things that I'm just not buying anymore, because they're too expensive. I might have the money, but now I'm going to "fix them" by not buying their product! In reality, it won't really do anything. But I like to think it WILL.

Some of the simplest things, and many necessities, have gotten to be far too expensive. I noticed this the last time I went bowling.

Bowling used to be a somewhat cheap night out. A couple games, shoe rental, a crappy pizza and beer. Maybe $10-to-$12 bucks a person. Well, you can basically double that now. And if you want Cosmic bowling, it's going to cost you even more. Unless you want to bowl at 6 AM with the family to save money. Then bring the pillows, and slippers -- we're going bowling, kids!

Remember when beef jerky was a cheap, go to snack? Not now. When did dried out meat become "gourmet?" Especially at 7-11? I understand the fancy beef jerky places, making their own. You're going to pay for that. But your basic convenience store Jack Links? I don't think so!

Now let's go beyond: Airbnb. Anywhere you were going, this used to be a really nice, affordable alternative to hotels. Now, with all of the added fees, and an astronomical cleaning fee - because some bachelor party guys peed in the bedrooms, and left garbage all over the house. And then they had to re-carpet, and buy new beds (yes - near Washington DC). Now it's far too expensive.  Not to mention, I clean dump the garbage, and wash the dishes, and make sure everything is put away - why am I paying so much, when I am the one cleaning?

Streaming services: Amazon Prime, Netflix, Hulu - all of them! Ee paid and came to you. And stuck with you. What did you do? RAISE YOUR PRICES! And let's not even talk about medication for those who need it. Unaffordable, in many cases.

Celery prices, concerts, greeting cards. Yes, I'm going to fix all of them!! Ok, probably not. But I do try to buy other brands, and do other things, when I can.

Because of streaming, movie theaters now offer a lot more deals. Gym memberships are way more affordable than they used to be. TV's -- because they are basically disposable -- are much cheaper. Salt, sugar, flour - still fairly affordable. So eat more cookies. And paste.

Oh, and rubbing alcohol - keep doing what you're doing, because you're still affordable! Especially since I've had the same bottle for 10 years. Perhaps I'll break down, and get a new one.

Valentine's Day is coming up on February 14 and you may be thinking, wasn't it just Christmas? And the answer is yes. The days are going faster and faster as we get older.

Now if you're not a shopper or a fan of Valentine's Day, you may just want to scroll through the photos to see what to get for those you love. The best part about the 99 Cent Only Store is that the décor is relatively discounted. Plus, they offer really cute options. Now, if you're a shopper of the 99 Cent Only Store, you know what were talking about. And for the ones who don't, not everything is $0.99. Some items range from $0.99 to prices as high as $39.99. We don't make the prices but we search for items that are priced right even at our local dollar stores.

Furthermore, if you a baller on a budget, you need to check out your nearest store as the shelves have been recently stocked with new red and pink everything. We sent our digital shopper to get a sneak peek at what's to expect.

Additionally, items include lovey-dovey mugs, heart-shaped dishes, studded animals, door hanger hangs, heart jars, mini heart classroom exchange cards and many more! Gift baskets for the kids could easily be made for under $20.00. Cards are also a great way to say "I love and care about you" without spending your entire paycheck. The card selection is wide and pretty heartfelt. Show the ones you love this Valentine's Day with some cute items.

Even so, there are 18 locations around the Vegas valley and Henderson combined, so there's a chance for you to find some of the hot items listed below. Besides, most locations are open at 8:00 a.m. and close at 9:00 p.m. so those of us who work the 9-5 lifestyle can go after work.

These trays are great for holiday parties or even atop of your work desk. They can eaily hold candies and other sweet treats,

Colorful tinsel is always an easy décor item. Spruce up your home or work place with a little Valentine's color-pop.

If you're a teacher, these plastic heart backets are perfect for storing holiday cards and treats. Parents, show your child love with a stuffed basket of cute things.

These beaded hanging décor items were a big hit in 2023. Use them to brighten up your doors, walls or outside porches.

These are great for students during holiday parties. They are also great for work places to show your "love" or appreciation during Valentine's Day.

These adorable stuffed animals are great for the stuffy-lover in your life. There all different kinds and colors to choose from.

We really love how cute these mugs are. The different sayings are perfect for all kinds of individuals. We are a fan of the "Bee Mine" mug.

The perfect mug with a two-in-one present. It's not only a mug but also a cute little teddy. This item is great for coffee and tea lovers.

These heart-shaped top jars were so sought after in 2023. They have new colors in purple and red. Get yours while you can.

These are tiny heart-shaped gum ball machines. You don't have to add gum balls to them though. The tiny heart candies may work... (try at your own risk)

We love these heart-shaped trays. These are great for light treats, candy and or work-supplies. Add some bright color to your desk or countertop.