Liz Whitfield is a partner at accountancy firm Jerroms in Solihull. What was your first pay cheque? I've been up in the attic to dig it out. The answer is £439.63, which probably shows how old I am! What did you spend it on? My mortgage. With MIRAS relief coming to an end in August 1988, I unfortunately bought at the peak of the market and then suffered negative equity. Dining out or entertaining at home? Both. But I do enjoy entertaining at home as the children love to be involved and chat with our friends. We had a number of parties over the Christmas break and it was a pleasure to use the dining room for once and have reason to get out the best china, cutlery and crystal. Most expensive thing ever bought? Well, I'm a bit of a speed junky and so we have a speedboat for me to slalom behind and the children to enjoy the doughnut and knee-board with their friends. Best bargain ever had? I'm hoping it's the ski boots I bought in last year's sale but not tested on the slopes yet. One luxury you're going without during the credit crunch? I've spotted a really nice ski jacket, but my husband would have a fit if I bought it as I have a perfectly good one at home. Best money-saving tip? Stay away from the shops. One thing you shouldn't buy but always do? Wine and chocolate. Your favourite currency and why? The euro - because I can spend it in my favourite country, Italy; or when we're skiing in France or sun-bathing in Spain. Best way of spending money on a rainy day is On the internet booking your next holiday.