I agree with Harriet. I have a good job. I have no credit card debt, just a fixed-rate mortgage that I can handle. My sons are growing fast so no need to buy clothing as often as I once did. However, I have the mindset that FDR is in office and the US is enduring the Great Depression which means I buy only what is necessary. I have become my two elderly, frugal aunts who are very wealthy because they never spent much money. I need the comfort of having cash in the bank. I need to live beneath my means which I do. There is no joyriding in my car. The traveling I used to do is cut back to the bare minimum. I already have a closet full of clothes and shoes and handbags so I make do. No one cares if I walk around in a $200 dress or a dress from a thift sale. I have never cared about what anyone else has thought. The "neighbors'" opinion of me does not even register. I have a very clean home and a very clean car. Yes, we are consumers and things do run out and break but I certainly do not need the "best" of anything. Being able to sleep at night is more important. If my two sons were little guys and were outgroing their clothes, we would be buying new clothes from Goodwill, Salvation Army, and yard sales. When children are very young they do not care unless a parent puts into their heads "only the finest will do for you."