Last week I learned how to stretch my lunches: I ended up buying lunch twice, but one day I saved half of it for the next day.

I'm entering week three of my friend E.'s lunch challenge -- take my lunch to work at least twice a week to put aside money for my passion, shopping. So far, I've saved $45. I'm only crediting myself half of $10 for the lunch I stretched.

With budgets tight and restaurant meal portions too much, anyway, it makes sense. I'd recommend cutting your restaurant lunch or dinner in half immediately when it arrives and asking for a takeout box. That way, you won't be tempted to eat the whole thing. This not only saves money, but helps your waistline.

What do you do to stretch meals? Post your advice here. -- Marcia "Bargain Hunter" Pounds

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