I often 'ground' myself so as not to spend what I wouldn't had I stayed home. It seems like every time I walk out the door I spend  $100.00. I stock up on greeting cards at the dollar store (often two for a dollar) and the .99 cent cards that you can find at most stores that carry cards. This past weekend I went to a children's consignment sale where I spent $45.00 on two sweaters, two dresses, two jumpers, three sets of PJ's, three shirts, booties, hat, and play mat w/toys and  extra mat and play mat w/mirror. pretty happy w/myself and I think that this $250.00 a month idea is great!