HOME

pampering

Indulging Affordably

Ideas on how to enhance your
life without over-spending.

T

aking care of life's necessities
often means having less to
spend on the things that make
us feel good about ourselves.
But when it comes to pampering your-
self, you don't have to spend a fortune to
enjoy little luxuries.
"Look for those everyday ways to
pamper or enhance your life that don't
empty the wallet," says budget-con-
scious lifestyle expert Alison Deyette, a
TV host and correspondent.
Many women are finding ways to
sneak small treats into ever tightening
budgets. According to a survey by SC
Johnson, nearly half of women (49 per-
cent) spend $20 or less a week on indul-
gent items. Deyette recommends a few
ways to treat yourself and lift your spirits
without breaking the bank:

a

• Diamonds may be a girl's best friend,
but they're a budget's worst enemy.
Try inexpensive but over-the-top stylish
accessories such as a long, multi-strand
silver coin necklace, pyramid-shaped
bejeweled earrings or a long, thin ombre
scarf — your jeans, T-shirts and fitted
blazer will look far more chic.
• When indulging at home, fragrance
is the No.1 item women splurge on
to spruce up their surroundings — 44
percent, according to the survey.
Create a soothing and fresh-smelling
environment by releasing a favorite
fragrance — try a scented candle or
reed diffuser.
• Finding time to relax is something
we all want, but we don't often make
a priority. Pamper yourself with a
bubble bath each Sunday evening

"Indulging" does not have to be expensive.

while perusing your favorite fashion
magazine, or hire a babysitter every
other Saturday so you can catch a
discounted matinee movie with friends
or someone special.
• Want a day of shopping with the
girls, but need to give your credit
cards a rest? Host a swap party at
your house. Invite your girlfriends

over and have them bring gently used
handbags, clothes and accessories.
You get to indulge in laughs, catch
up with friends and add a few "new"
items to your closet.
Start treating yourself right and
embrace life's pleasurable moments. L

Article courtesy of ARAcontent

, &p p

e 04)2e,
-elect eci

transformations

6

%,VL•

ri%c• °/)/to
O P
//,„,
0/,„
P.
to

Introducing beautiful <6%/o
and affordable
maintenance-free
granite that fits over your
existing countertop.

9

Call for a Free in-home consultation
or visit one of our showrooms:

Granite countertops as easy as 1, 2, 3!

248-427-0200
31205 Grand River
Farmington Hills, Mt 48336

248-680-9100
2061 E. Maple Rd.
Troy, MI 48083

Cabinet Refacing

NOW AVAILABLE

www.granitetransformations.com

1532590

32

November 19 2009