I have made it a point not to be frugal because of my Mom. She is frugal to the point of insanity (in some cases). Here are a couple stories:

My Mom likes shoes. She only buys shoes on sale, though. Once she bought a lovely pair of shoes on sale for a ridiculously low price. Did I mention she wears a size 9.5 narrow? She bought them in size 8 because they were such a deal. Then she couldn't wear them because they didn't fit. She then tried to pawn them off on me. I wear a size 9 AND they weren't my style! I imagine they are still in her closet (15 years later)

My Mom found a comforter for her bed that was on sale for a very, very low price (something like $15.00). It was really pretty. She bought it and brought it home and put it on the bed. Then she realized that the drapes didn't go with the new comforter. So she went back and bought the drapes and valance to match (they were not on sale). Later she ended up getting new sheets and throw pillows as well as the bed skirt. Even later she ended up painting and re-wallpapering the bedroom. Granted the room needed it, but we still laugh at the real "cost" of that $15 comforter!

I splurge on what I want when I want it. But I also buy in bulk when it will save and I don't have to have everything "name brand." I think I strike a good balance.

I think I have become more frugal, over the years, and it doesn't help living through a Hurricane to help. I had never went into a good will, until I lost everything. I don't buy everything now at goodwill, but found the same juicer and popcorn machine I left behind, that felt good. Clothing I will buy there also if it is in very good condition, and I have gotten my daughter toys there. Shoes I buy at Tjmaxx, and I buy alot of new things there, because they are so well made, that the things last a long time.
I can't sew, so that is out of the question. But I do not eat out , instead I cook when I can( I am still trying to find a cheap food processor at good will) from scratch, I had a great collection of cookbooks, and love to try new things, the only thing I buy out for the kids is pizza( once a month) , and Popeye's chicken( reminds them of Louisiana),,, when I pass a store ( once in 2 yrs).. .I plan menus, clip coupons, and also shop at ethnic stores, farmers markets, if I had my own house I would grow all my veggies, and have a few fruit trees.
cheryl