Consumers remain cautious, especially about big-ticket purchases, hitting furniture and larger electricals suffered.
If this is your first baby and you are starting from the ground up when it comes to getting what you need, then a baby shower is a great way to take care of some big ticket items.
Beyond the fun stuff, you and some friends can consider pitching in for a big ticket item, such as a stroller or swingset designed for multiples.
Financial advisors also recommend creating a "fun fund" to save for special treats, such as vacations, big-ticket purchases and entertainment in order to avoid just charging something on impulse and getting stuck into the payback rut.
For example, you may not use your online calendar for day-to-day events, reserving it for big ticket items like staff meetings, parent teacher conferences and early release days.