I remodeled our kitchen this past year, and took on a whole pile of debt that propelled me into budgeting and saving. One of the things I did was treated myself, (and Hubby) and we spent a lot of money on a coffee machine.
Now this isn’t just any old machine. It grinds, presses, froths, and blends coffee with milk to make the perfect latte. When I add a bit of chocolate syrup I’ve got a mocha. With another press of a button I’ve got a mocha cappuccino.
What does this have to do with budgeting? Well, surprisingly, since I bought this machine I haven’t been out for a espresso, mocha or frappuccino once.
I admit it. I’m a major coffee snob and it is one of my pleasures.
Before the espresso machine in my kitchen I’d always stop for a quick coffee to go. Sometimes I’d even get a refill, which isn’t a refill for free when you’re adding hot milk and flavors. They all cost money. A lot of money.
There’s no way you’re going to get me to add up all the cash I’ve spent over the years at the coffee shops. I should have bought stock.
Lets just say an average gourmet coffee is around three or four dollars. Each.
Even if I only did one every workday, at $3.00 that’s um….$15.00 per week. $60.00 per month and $720 per year and what about my Hubby’s coffee addiction?
It won’t take us long to justify this great machine. From a cost analysis perspective it’ll end up saving us money. A lot of money over the long haul.
Even with buying good coffee beans, I’m way ahead.
I might do it differently again – I’d save for the machine instead of charge it on a credit card.
But I sure am enjoying my Christmas peppermint mocha right now.
And it’s a little bit of luxury in my own home – that makes it easier to stay home, and not go out and spend money.
Budgeting for large purchases
My kitchen remodel