I think the take away from this is don't buy expensive just to buy expensive. I am trying to go through a bit of a life simplification myself - went from 2 houses and commuting between 2 cities for a job that was making me miserable to one condo and working part time (trying to decide what to do long term...the whole how to be a lawyer and have a life issue has me completely confused )

I have learned that it's better to have one nice, well made item than 10 cheapo non-functional items. It requires less room to store, and I'm happier in the long run. I've learned this the hard way. I have a good raincoat - not the most expensive, but it's lasted me for 8 years and might need replacing soon (finally). I wear dansko clogs - not cheap, but I have a local shoe guy who can re-sole them and I haven't had to replace a pair yet. On and On. Don't impulse purchase, make friends with your local stores and know when they have sales so you can get what you really want for less, and you're good.

Don't forget - there's a space/time/annoyence factor to storing the 10 on sale gadgets that you might never use....

Carrie Anne

And Sarah- you can be cat poor! One of mine has a plate in his leg, has been through radio-iodine therapy for a thyroid problem, and most recently kidney and bladder stones. He's the most expensive free (rescue) cat I've ever seen...and I wouldn't trade him for anything