Image via Wikipedia |
Also remember that you don't have to take it the way it is. Some things are better with your own touch on them. A plain cake might be much better with a glaze or whipped topping. If you find the BBQ chicken dry, add some of your own sauce. Strawberry preserves or jam can be turned into strawberry syrup with a tablespoon or two of water in the microwave. Your ice cream will never know you didn't buy it.
There are some excellent products in the freezer nowadays too. Heat frozen rolls in the oven for ten minutes--Voila!!! They'll think you made them yourself. The deli even has casseroles almost like Mama used to make. Again, add a little seasoning or butter and they do just fine.
Remember too, that buying a prepared food that seems expensive can be more economical because you don't waste as much, and you don't have to buy ingredients that may go unused. I really hate to feel I have to eat something I don't particularly like because it is junking up the refrigerator.
Remember--frugality.