Layout:
Home > Archive: November, 2018

Archive for November, 2018

Trying to get in the Holiday Mood

November 24th, 2018 at 11:34 pm

2018 has been a very challenging year. Thanksgiving this year reflected that I'm afraid. My brother and SIL always host Thanksgiving and we all usually have a wonderful time. This year I think everyone was just tired and stressed. We had a very nice meal, but it just seemed that people were a little edgy and snappy with each other. My nephew is still recovering from the stroke and he was tired and got a little frustrated with having trouble navigating the passing of food etc. When dinner was over we usually watch football well into the evening but this year people left earlier then usual. Then there was a misunderstanding that blew up on social media and resulted in hurt feelings. Sigh...I really hate it when people air family tussles on facebook.

We decided this year not to buy gifts for Christmas. There really is nothing I need or want and there aren't any young children in our family. I will still be hosting our usual Christmas Eve dinner and get together but without all the pressure of everyone trying to figure out what to buy each other! I think everyone was thinking the same way but no one wanted to be the first to say it. But when I suggested it to my brother he immediately agreed and then it just spread from there. I think everyone was relieved. We will focus on each other and being together over good food and company. Isn't that what it's supposed to about anyway?

I'm trying to find my holiday spirit and think about getting the condo decorated and my menu for Christmas Eve but it's just not there yet. Hopefully it will kick in soon. I usually love the holidays.

It is pouring down rain right now...I'm thankful it isn't snow!


Really Late October Spending and Savings

November 10th, 2018 at 10:06 pm

Total Spending $1018.14

Total Savings: $3300 (not retirement, this is cash to savings account)

Here is a breakdown of October spending. My goal was to stay under $1000 for the month. Just a tad over this month.

Fixed Expenses
Verizon Bundle: 154.36 (Internet, home phone, cable)
Monthly Condo Fee: 185.00
Cell Phone: 59.37
HVAC and water heater maintenance contract: 27.95
Pocket money: 20

Variables:
Utilities: 85.16
Gasoline: 34.91
Groceries: 180.03
Health: 142.52 (scripts and co-pays)
Dining Out: 101.32
Other: 27.52 (shopping)

Health included my cost of a medical test so this category was higher this month.

Dining out was high this month. I had several dinners out with friends! (and a few drinks).

* Condo is paid in full
* Car is paid in full (2017 Camry)
* No other debt