February 28th, 2021 at 01:34 pm
* $1500 Recurring monthly retirement account distribution
* $175 Swagbucks and My Points earnings (cash out to PayPal)
Total Savings: $203.17 (difference between monthly income and monthly spending)
Fixed Expenses:
Verizon bundle (internet, cable, home phone): $174.51
Cell phone: $60.03
HVAC and water heater contract: $27.95
Condo Fee (includes water) $190.00
Health Care: (includes health, dental, vision, prescription plans) $476.37
Variables:
Utilities: $109.48
Gasoline: $0
Groceries: $220.94
Health: $54.37 (co-pays, scripts refills, vitamins and personal health care items)
Take Out food: $0
Shopping (on-line): $125.34 (Clothes, free shipping)
Priority Mail Charge: $12.84
Cash Withdraw: $20.00
* Condo is paid in full
* Car is paid in full (2017 Camry)
* No other debt
*Notes: I exceeded my goal of spending $200 for groceries each month by $20.94. Some of the clothing I purchased was a need, some were just wants. My gasoline spending continues to be very low since retirement and staying in more due to COVID. My utilities cost is a bit higher then last year, also due to being at home more.
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February 20th, 2021 at 01:27 pm
While many across the country have been dealing with record snowfalls this winter, here in my area in Maryland, it's been almost all ice. We were predicted to get snow with the last storm but it ended up being all ice and sleet. I have never seen sleet come down so fast and furious. We were very lucky not to lose power.
One of the things included in my monthly condo fee is snow removal and the crew that is used here do an outstanding job. They were out numerous times spreading salt and ice melt, plowing the parking lot, and hand shoveling the sidewalks and steps. We had that much sleet pile up that it was plowable! The only thing I need to do is clean off my car. Since I don't have to go anywhere, I am just letting it melt off. It is supposed to be up near fifty degrees this coming week, and while it is still very cold today, I am so happy to see the sun is out! Maybe I will actually be able to get outside for some walks this week. The cabin fever is real.
My sister and BIL live in Texas, and it is as bad as you are seeing on the news. They lost power, but were very fortunate to not have any broken water pipes. They also had a small stockpile of food and water, but are starting to run low. My sister reported that the grocery stores that are actually open are running out of everything. It is really a very dire situation.
I continue to wait for the vaccine. My age range is not eligible yet in my state, but should be in the next week. My brother and SIL who are eligible still have not been able to secure an appointment. It's really frustrating.
On the financial front, everything continues to go smoothly. I sent all my tax information to the CPA I use and should have them completed in a week or so. I am expecting a refund, but have no idea how much yet. I really need a new laptop, so whatever I receive will be used for that purchase.
While summer is not my favorite season (I don't tolerate high heat and humidity well) I am really ready for spring! Have a good weekend everyone.
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February 1st, 2021 at 01:39 pm
* $1500 Recurring monthly retirement account distribution
* $300 Swagbucks and My Points earnings (cash out to PayPal)
* $85.78 Cash Back Credit Card Rewards
Total Savings: $551.73 (difference between monthly income and monthly spending)
Fixed Expenses:
Verizon bundle (internet, cable, home phone): $174.51
Cell phone: $60.03
HVAC and water heater contract: $27.95
Condo Fee (includes water) $190.00
Health Care: (includes health, dental, vision, prescription plans) $476.37
Variables:
Utilities: $116.70
Gasoline: $0
Groceries: $184.88
Health: $0 (co-pays, scripts refills, vitamins and personal health care items)
Take Out food: $65.28 (football playoff game food for family)
Shopping (on-line): $38.33 (Walmart stock up order, free shipping)
* Condo is paid in full
* Car is paid in full (2017 Camry)
* No other debt
*Notes:
Health Insurance package increased by $25.47 per month for 2021
Verizon bundle increased by $13.91 per month. A credit I was receiving in 2020 expired.
I have yet to find a less expensive alternative to Verizon that includes NFL, MLB and NHL viewing. Watching games with family and friends is a big part of our social gatherings, we are a big sports family. I will revisit this and investigate any new choices after the SuperBowl next weekend.
I was very happy with my grocery spending this month. My goal for 2021 is to stay below $200 per month.
I had a great earnings month through SwagBucks and My Points! January is usually really slow for on-line earnings opportunities, so I am pleased with my efforts.
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