To Shop or Not To Shop

I love shopping.  It's one of my favorite things - shopping for me or others, finding gifts for people, and browsing the interwebs.  I don't need to "swipe the plastic" to get the exhilarating feeling I get from shopping.  So why do I go out and buy a new top when I want it or a vase for my place, even though I have nowhere to put it yet... 

Every year I give up something for Lent in an effort to be a better person.  I've given up soda, meat, swearing, and many other things.  Most of the time, I tend to find out more about myself and make alterations to my life.  I recently gave up cheese for the month of February and it made me realize that it A) doesn't really effect me the way I thought it might and B) is something I don't need to eat every meal.  I'm hoping this round, I'll save more money to spend on memories, not materials.  I also hope that I focus on the things I already have, since I am so lucky to be able to have as many clothes and things as I do.  Joy doesn't come from material things.  And I need to remember this!

Have you given up something for lent?  Would you ever consider giving up shopping for yourself for a period of time? 

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