Pants of the Traveling Sisterhood, Or, The January Treasurer's Report

A few weeks ago I was whining about my inability to purchase a pair of midnight blue Elie Tahari cords because of my draconian self-imposed spending ban in the '07. Yet there I am, at left, wearing said pants. "Did you crack and start shopping already?" you might be gasping at this very minute. No, Doubting Delilah, I did not. On Sunday I met my parents for brunch and in their car sat one of my favorite sights: the buttercup yellow and pink bag from the boutique that sold the pants. After reading that aforementioned whimpering blog post, my sister had called the shop and purchased the pants for me as a treat for making it through my first month of frugality. It's a good lesson, folks. Not only that I have the greatest sister in the world, but also about teamwork: I sniffle, the team spoils me.

And now for the January treasurer's report. As part of this year-long effort I will be unflinchingly presenting each month's results. If you'll remember, I'm not limiting dining out, but I am tracking it out of curiousity. Already, I've spent way less than last year. I should also mention in this report that fellow blogger Barzelay was an invaluable member of the team this month, sending me a copy of The Decemberists album after I whined that I couldn't buy it under the new plan. I will happily print an honor roll in the monthly treasurer's report of those of you who somehow help your fellow man and woman (not just me) save money this year. Creativity, but not illegality, will be noted.