How Cheap Are You?

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I have gotten to a point where I seem to be returning at least 30% of what I buy.

Sometimes I buy with the intention of returning. Rather than dragging the kids into a 3 x 3 stall with me, I use my bedroom as a fitting room and return what doesn't fit, or what Matt says "uh...it's okay..." to. These are items in the $15 - $80 range.

Sometimes I buy without the intention of returning, until buyers' remorse hits me. When I get home and "it's on sale!" succumbs to "but we don't NEED another wacky sprinkler/funny-shaped cake pan/quirky tote bag." These returns usually put $10-$20 back in my wallet.

Sometimes I overbuy, and for the first time, this weekend I returned something to Publix. Two bags of chocolates that I would not be needing. That netted me $8.46, well worth the trip to the store I was already needing to visit.

So here's the question. I am sitting on 3 mini-spools of ribbon for which I don't have an imminent need. They were $1 each, from a craft store that is about 7 minutes away. So, let's do the math - Gas is $4/gallon. The trip would likely take me 20 minutes round trip, assuming I get in and out. $3 for 20 minutes minus $1 for gas would equal $6/hour - which is pretty well under what I make for an hour of piano lessons.

But I don't need the ribbon.

Thoughts? :)

Comments

Mary @ Giving Up On Perfect said…
When you look at the math, I'd just keep the ribbon, if you think you might use it someday. Especially since you said they are "mini" spools - so they're not taking up a lot of room, right?
September 16, 2008 at 3:26 PM
Combs Chronicles said…
First, I have started to get a high for returning things! Is this bad? And the ribbon... we could always use it for the First Priority Auction Baskets! (Just a thought!) ;oP
September 16, 2008 at 3:55 PM
Justmatt said…
I love my cheap wife!
You should see her grocery shop! Amazing...simply amazing!
September 18, 2008 at 5:59 PM
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