When you're on a tight budget, it can be hard to factor in nice treats without a pang of guilt.
Sure, you might not be able to spend what you'd like on food, but find below some ways of still treating yoruself and your family without blowing the budget.
Coffee bar substitute
Given half the chance, mammasaver could spend a fortune in a coffee bar. The cakes, the lattes, the smell of freshly brewed goodies... However, when the bank balance says 'no' then try the following.
Make your own latte using an extra teaspoon of coffee, a cup full of heated whole milk and a thermal mug. Go to the park, have a chocolate bar with it and enjoy a bit of people watching.
Restaurant avoider
If you are craving the buzz of a busy restaurant, good food, wine and company, then invite your friends over for a pot-luck supper.
Each guest brings a dish, meaning that everyone gets to taste a variety of different foods that they wouldn't necessarily have cooked themselves.
If you wish, you can 'theme' the evening - Italian, Thai, American, and lo and behold you'll experience new tastes, great company and help with the washing up.
Rediscover childhood treats
Over the last decade, a market for 'premium goods' has opened up, making premium seem normal. For example, just think about the luxury ice creams that you can buy - they often outnumber the standard ice creams in the freezer section.
By moving away from these premium goods and towards the treats that we enjoyed as children (Angel Delight, ice poles, Vienetta ice cream), you can still enjoy sweet treats without missing out on taste.
