Cracking under pressure

I thought peer pressure ended in the 12th grade, but I was sadly mistaken. I've jumped on the blogging bandwagon as it seems like the new way to stay in touch with everyone.

But I've decided to try to make this blog useful. I've always wanted to write a column on the challenge of saving money in the city but I was never brave enough to pitch it. So here it is. Follow me as I work hard to change my spending habits.

I currently live downtown, work downtown and do everything in between downtown.

I am out of school and trying to pay down my student debt. But that's difficult when my walk home takes me through a cute market full of interesting vendors, a good-sized shopping mall, and a busy street with cute boutiques and stores. Everywhere I look there are things calling on me to buy them. To often I cave.

For instance, today I was heading home through the mall and I wasn't feeling so well. My stomache hurt and it was cold outside and I really wasn't looking forward to the walk. Then the Body Shop came into view. There was a sale on room fragrances - 3 for $16. Nevermind the fact that nobody needs that much room fragrance for a small downtown apartment, I walked in and promptly purchased three room fragrances. And a ceramic ring to put on a lightbulb to diffuse the fragrances into my bedroom. I don't even think I like one of the scents.

I need help, and I'm going to get it. I hope you follow me along for the ride.