I’m sure many of you can relate to this – as moms (especially budget conscious moms) we’re hesitant to spend money on ourselves. Feeding and clothing five kids isn’t always easy, and I’ll often put my personal needs last to ensure that they have everything they need. In fact, I’m far more likely to indulge my husband’s wants than my own.

So when I was given the opportunity to see how far I could stretch a $50 budget on myself at T.J. Maxx and Marshalls ($25 at each), I actually found myself struggling a bit at the stores when I saw how many great bargains they had for my husband and kids. Not to mention it was a very odd feeling indeed to be out shopping by myself as that almost NEVER happens.

I haven’t been to T.J. Maxx or Marshalls in years because they’re not in my immediate location, but a 20-minute drive to check them out wasn’t too bad. I wondered if I’d still find the same kind of great deals as I used to, and I’m happy to say the didn’t let me down one bit. In fact, their goal for 2009 is to be “the solution to your resolutions,” and I could definitely see how they’re executing on that promise.

I restrained myself from looking at the adorable bargain-priced kids’ clothing and found some fabulous items for ME! I wish I could take a picture of my goodies, but you’ll have to settle for the photo of the hair dryer that I purchased (for half off the retail price!), as my digital camera finally bit the dust.

In addition to the Conair Infinity Tourmaline Hair Dryer, I got a v-neck shirt from Express, a pair of bamboo-fiber yoga pants, a bottle of Rusk Str8 Anti-Frizz/Anti-Curl Lotion, and a pair of cashmere gloves. I was especially stoked about the gloves as I have long fingers and gloves don’t typically fit me well, and these are gorgeous and soft.

And best of all?

I went just a smidge over my $50 budget when all was said and done.

Not bad if I do say so myself!

I’ll definitely be frequenting these stores more often if for nothing else other than their housewares department. I could have spent all day there alone drooling over all the little knick-knacks and gourmet foods, as well as the Le Creuset items and kitchen gadgets.

Are you an off-price retailer shopper at stores like Marshalls and T.J. Maxx? What’s the best deal that you’ve scored there?