You know, if we're not careful, this recession can definitely turn into a personal depression and just eat us alive. By now every single one of us has felt the crunch and has had to make adjustments to our budget and our day-to-day spending, and that is as it should be at a time like this. But just as importantly, we MUST keep up our spirits and rejuvenate ourselves along the way in order to avoid the endless worry and stress that could easily take up residence in our homes.



For women, that fix is easy! No matter how things are going on the inside, we can almost always practice a little, ?Look good, Feel good.? Some days, this may be as simple as a new lipstick or a few minutes extra to paint our toes ? and other times, it may mean getting all dolled up just to have coffee at the diner with a few friends. For myself, I decided to budget just 10 extra dollars a week and buy myself one inexpensive, fun, great looking new article of clothing every month. With today's online world, I can save the extras that used to go with this choice ? there's no gas expense, and there aren't any other stores (like in the mall) to lure away my wandering eye! I have $40, and I can truly enjoy spending every single dollar to keep my spirits up and my self confidence squarely in place.

You may be asking yourself, ?But what can I buy with only forty dollars?? So I decided to visit my favorite online store for Zoftic, full-figured goddesses like me, and create a few ensembles to assure you that the possibilities are literally endless. (I chose swakdesigns.com for amazing plus size fashions, but you can choose your own online boutique to frequent ? or choose a few to wander around and window shop for a while first.) But whatever you do, DON'T put yourself off until ?next week? or ?next payday? ? as women, we do this FAR too often. We put EVERYONE ahead of us on the list, and quite simply, we never really get around to living the great, appreciative life that we deserve. And truly, this is a disservice to everyone. A rejuvenated spirit is much more empowered to inspire and serve others!

I picked out my first outfit for this virtual fashion show in January. It was a long black plus size skirt, described as neither too dressy nor too casual (and super comfy ? always a plus!). And since it only cost $18.99, I threw in the extra buck and paired it with what they call the ?perfect cami? for $21.99. I then grabbed the free shipping offer and celebrated all week long until my treasures arrived that Friday afternoon ? just in time for that coffee with friends, by the way!

In February, I wanted a beautiful dress to celebrate Valentine's Day with my sweetheart. The ?Cynthia? print plus size dress was exactly what the doctor ordered ? it was an amazingly flatteringly empire-waisted V-neck, in a wildly beautiful red print pattern with ? sleeves. And at only $24.99, it left enough for me to buy a great looking necklace from the accessories collection AND a romantic card for my sweetheart.

My last example is, of course, for March. I have to admit, I haven't quite decided yet. While I love dresses and long skirts, I'm finding myself pretty tempted by the cute Priscilla Capri pants (on sale for $18.99) and there's a black pashmina type wrap that would be a fun, stylish touch with almost everything already in my wardrobe. The point is that no matter what your budget, or what's going on in your life, finding a few dollars to ramp up your spirit (and your bod) is a great investment ? and one you simply can't afford to pass up!