About a month ago I found myself on the phone with the bank, frantically trying to figure out why my debit card was being declined. 

As a budgeter, I know how much money is in my checking account at all times. So when I swiped my card at the Dollar Tree and it came back as declined I knew something was up. 

Had my account been hacked? My card number been stolen? Was there a problem with the system at the Dollar Tree. No, no and no. 

When you're on your way to a frugal debt free life you will face some obstacles. But the one thing that a lot of people struggle with is saying no to social situations. 

I personally do not struggle with this. It doesn't bother me to tell people why I am not participating in something. 

The words: "we are trying to save money" just don't make me feel embarrassed or awkward. But I understand why not everyone feels the same way I do. 

So I wanted to share with you a few ways to avoid those embarrassing situations.