This month I have not bought a stitch of clothing, a single handbag, shoe or accessory. I didn’t buy any cosmetics. No new mascaras or lipsticks or fancy moisturizer or shampoo. I bought groceries and had wine at home. I made my own coffee in the morning and brought in my lunch to work. I made dinner more than I ever had in any given month. I did not go to brunch.

I did cheat on no-buy month once or twice. I paid for a round of drinks and dinner in the neighborhood with my husband. I bought a skein yarn, but it was a necessity. With 6 inches left to knit on a sweater and seaming, I felt the purchase was justifiable. 

Not shopping for a month has made me realize I am a bit of a shopaholic. What’s more, I’m a shopaholic who likes to tell myself it’s ok to shop if it’s on sale. I felt serious withdrawal the first few days. I ignored the Kate Spade sample sale. I ignored the Hayden Harnett winter sale. I deleted the email about the Philosophy sale at drugstore.com. I deleted every email from Sephora and JCrew. I unsubscribed from the Tory Burch mailing list and did not visit Gilt, Rue La La or Ideeli every day. I did not add to cart once this entire month.

There are just 5 days left and Frugal February will be done.  I am embarrassed to admit how much I’ve been able to save. The temptation to shop for a friend’s upcoming wedding is strong, but going through my closet this weekend I discovered I already have everything I need.

And isn’t that the lesson. I already have everything I need.