October is the first month on my reduced income amount from my retirement distribution (from $1500 to $1200). I also average another $200 - $250 from Swagbucks and My Points. So far, my spending for the month is $1053.61. All of my usual monthly bills are paid, except for the cell phone bill so I am right on track.  My grocery spending is at $46.29. The food I receive from the senior center monthly give away has really had an impact on keeping this low. I only really need to buy fresh produce, butter, milk, eggs, iced tea, and some ice cream every now and then. 

We are expecting some storms today, and then a cold front will move in. I'm ready for the cooler weather. It's mid October and it is still very warm and humid. I'm over it!  

Keep an eye out for grocery store promotions for free turkeys and/or hams for Thanksgiving. My Weis grocery store is giving customers a free one when you have enough points on your grocery club card. I will easily reach the 400 points needed by completing the on-line customer satisfaction surveys on the bottom of each shopping receipt. I earn 100 points for each one I do, limit of one per week. I will probably get a ham, and use it for Christmas Eve dinner when the whole family comes over. Meats are so expensive now so this will help the budget a lot. 

My brother, nephew and cousin will be over tomorrow for our football watching Sunday get together. We all just pitch in for food so it's a fun, low cost get together. 

Have a great weekend everyone!