Nothing exciting . . . work, clean, relax.
I didn't spend any money at all, though!!! YESSS!!!
Friday, May 30, 2008
Thursday, May 29, 2008
DAY 28
First and foremost:
Yesterday I was thinking about this BLOG and how the end of the month was approaching. I was thinking, "Hmmm . . . I should find another challenge." I decided to start a food log to keep track of what I am consuming in the most basic sense, and to instill a sense of shame in eating horribly bad things--as the world would be put on NOTICE of such tendencies. Then last night I read that Candice is going to do a similar thing, although focusing much more on the sustainability aspect. Sustainability will also be goal, of course, but the primary focus will be on fixing my consuption problems! I've been "steadily" (I use that word loosely, as some months I have lost a lot, and then other times it takes a couple of months to lose only 5 pounds) losing weight since this summer, and now that I am facing another six weeks of NO RUNNING, I need to start working on my eating and not depending on my running to undo all the damage of my binge eating. WORD UP.
Okay, back to day 28:
Went to work, commuted. Used cruise control on all the highway portions and am getting much more comfortable with it!!! YAY!!!
I had a doctor's appointment, where I was told I could not run for six more weeks and need to "baby" my leg. No cast or boot is needed, though, becuase it is the fibula and I still will be placing the brunt of my weight on the tibia when I walk and stuff. Otherwise, I would be booted up! So, I have now officially broken both of the bones in my left shin. AWESOME. Paid my copay.
Then I ordered my ticked for Sex and the City tomorrow on Fandango. We are going to dinner beforehand, so I will need to eat as cheaply as possible . . . the funds are drying up! I no longer have a cushion in my student loan account. :( That's why I'm working so hard to get my security deposit back . . . i like having that cushion. I should also seriously consider applying for a credit card to use in emergencies. But UGHHH! I do trust myself a lot more now with credit, but I still just don't like the idea . . .
Ordered a salad from McDonalds ( :( ) b/c I was eager to compare/contrast the Southwestern Salads of McDonalds and Arbys . . . McD's wins, although Arbys' is cheaper . . . but not enough lettuce!!!!
Cleaned up the old apartment some more after work, then headed back to relax.
Needed groceries, so I ran to Target so I could use my Target Card. I was so impressed by the variety of delicious/healthy products at Super Target! HOLY CRAP. Archer Farms is da bomb. I didn't buy too much, as I don't yet know what all I need at the new place. I also got PIZZA HUT for dinner. SO BAD! But again, I am in a transitional phase where I don't yet feel comfortable (or have the energy!!!!) cooking and making a big mess at the new place . . . I shall overcome.
Yesterday I was thinking about this BLOG and how the end of the month was approaching. I was thinking, "Hmmm . . . I should find another challenge." I decided to start a food log to keep track of what I am consuming in the most basic sense, and to instill a sense of shame in eating horribly bad things--as the world would be put on NOTICE of such tendencies. Then last night I read that Candice is going to do a similar thing, although focusing much more on the sustainability aspect. Sustainability will also be goal, of course, but the primary focus will be on fixing my consuption problems! I've been "steadily" (I use that word loosely, as some months I have lost a lot, and then other times it takes a couple of months to lose only 5 pounds) losing weight since this summer, and now that I am facing another six weeks of NO RUNNING, I need to start working on my eating and not depending on my running to undo all the damage of my binge eating. WORD UP.
Okay, back to day 28:
Went to work, commuted. Used cruise control on all the highway portions and am getting much more comfortable with it!!! YAY!!!
I had a doctor's appointment, where I was told I could not run for six more weeks and need to "baby" my leg. No cast or boot is needed, though, becuase it is the fibula and I still will be placing the brunt of my weight on the tibia when I walk and stuff. Otherwise, I would be booted up! So, I have now officially broken both of the bones in my left shin. AWESOME. Paid my copay.
Then I ordered my ticked for Sex and the City tomorrow on Fandango. We are going to dinner beforehand, so I will need to eat as cheaply as possible . . . the funds are drying up! I no longer have a cushion in my student loan account. :( That's why I'm working so hard to get my security deposit back . . . i like having that cushion. I should also seriously consider applying for a credit card to use in emergencies. But UGHHH! I do trust myself a lot more now with credit, but I still just don't like the idea . . .
Ordered a salad from McDonalds ( :( ) b/c I was eager to compare/contrast the Southwestern Salads of McDonalds and Arbys . . . McD's wins, although Arbys' is cheaper . . . but not enough lettuce!!!!
Cleaned up the old apartment some more after work, then headed back to relax.
Needed groceries, so I ran to Target so I could use my Target Card. I was so impressed by the variety of delicious/healthy products at Super Target! HOLY CRAP. Archer Farms is da bomb. I didn't buy too much, as I don't yet know what all I need at the new place. I also got PIZZA HUT for dinner. SO BAD! But again, I am in a transitional phase where I don't yet feel comfortable (or have the energy!!!!) cooking and making a big mess at the new place . . . I shall overcome.
Wednesday, May 28, 2008
27th Day
Back to work. First commute. No traffic, but rain so it SUCKED. Didn't take too long. Will be interested to see how often I need to fill up. I think when I was commuting for bar classes last summer I was filling up about every 10 days or so . . . not too bad for having a 10 gallon engine and travelling over 40 miles a day . . . BUT WE SHALL SEE.
Ended up having to order a UHAUL to use b/c no one would pick up my large items I wanted to donate. So, I called in and was able to get one and promptly got it, used it, and returned it. $19.99 plus mileage, and I only went about 3 miles total. Then I had to put gas in it, so I just put in a little over a gallon (and then the lady at the Uhaul place had the nerve to tell me I did not put in enough gas . . . uhhh, yeah . . . so Uhauls get worse than 3 mpg? Don't think so . . . I drove all the way out there and ends up the HO was reading the gas gauge BACKWARDS and then told me the gauges are reversed on some trucks? I don't think so . . . )
After that, I didn't feel like going back to the old apartment to eat the lunch I had waiting there so I went to Arby's for a SALAD. (My first non-Wendy's fast food MEAL) What a waste . . . it was good, and I kinda want another one, but there was barely any lettuce!!! It came in this huge container and was only half full. WTF?! DAMMIT. Now I am thinking about it and want it!!! We'll see how my Dr. appointment goes today and that will determine whether or not I get one . . . I bet the restaurant has a similar one, though.
Had a cellphone dilemna that was worked out, but put me in panick mode. That's the bad thing about relying entirely on your cellphone: you can so easily be totally cut off!!!
Cleaned the old apartment for a bit, then went HOME and had a relaxing night--even fighting the urge to have a "drink" b/c I was so stressed from the day!
Ended up having to order a UHAUL to use b/c no one would pick up my large items I wanted to donate. So, I called in and was able to get one and promptly got it, used it, and returned it. $19.99 plus mileage, and I only went about 3 miles total. Then I had to put gas in it, so I just put in a little over a gallon (and then the lady at the Uhaul place had the nerve to tell me I did not put in enough gas . . . uhhh, yeah . . . so Uhauls get worse than 3 mpg? Don't think so . . . I drove all the way out there and ends up the HO was reading the gas gauge BACKWARDS and then told me the gauges are reversed on some trucks? I don't think so . . . )
After that, I didn't feel like going back to the old apartment to eat the lunch I had waiting there so I went to Arby's for a SALAD. (My first non-Wendy's fast food MEAL) What a waste . . . it was good, and I kinda want another one, but there was barely any lettuce!!! It came in this huge container and was only half full. WTF?! DAMMIT. Now I am thinking about it and want it!!! We'll see how my Dr. appointment goes today and that will determine whether or not I get one . . . I bet the restaurant has a similar one, though.
Had a cellphone dilemna that was worked out, but put me in panick mode. That's the bad thing about relying entirely on your cellphone: you can so easily be totally cut off!!!
Cleaned the old apartment for a bit, then went HOME and had a relaxing night--even fighting the urge to have a "drink" b/c I was so stressed from the day!
Tuesday, May 27, 2008
Day 2six
Memorial Day.
Slept in, then ran to pick a few grocery items for the new house. Again, right now I am in a place in my life where I need to get as cheap of groceries as possible so I usually get my groceries at Walmart. The Walmart by my new place is SWEET. It's one of the newer, "classier" ones and the grocery section is sweet as hell. Of course, I am going to aim to start getting most of my fresh items from one of the surrounding Farmers' Markets.
Just laid around the house relaxing most of the day, then went on an ADVENTURE to Saylorville Lake and Big Creek State Park. Pretty cool stuff out there; glad I know it is there.
Afterwards, we went to dinner at this new BBQ place by Drake. We ordered drinks, which were almost as expensive as our meals, so my initial thought was EXPENSIVE! But then I realized the meal itself was only $7 and very filling. NOT BAD.
Total Expenses: $28
Slept in, then ran to pick a few grocery items for the new house. Again, right now I am in a place in my life where I need to get as cheap of groceries as possible so I usually get my groceries at Walmart. The Walmart by my new place is SWEET. It's one of the newer, "classier" ones and the grocery section is sweet as hell. Of course, I am going to aim to start getting most of my fresh items from one of the surrounding Farmers' Markets.
Just laid around the house relaxing most of the day, then went on an ADVENTURE to Saylorville Lake and Big Creek State Park. Pretty cool stuff out there; glad I know it is there.
Afterwards, we went to dinner at this new BBQ place by Drake. We ordered drinks, which were almost as expensive as our meals, so my initial thought was EXPENSIVE! But then I realized the meal itself was only $7 and very filling. NOT BAD.
Total Expenses: $28
Monday, May 26, 2008
DAY 23 - 25
DAY 23: FRIDAY
Went to work, was going to have to buy lunch b/c I forgot to bring mine and was getting an oil change later so I didn't want to make two car trips DURING the workday. But as fate had it, one of my Judges treated me to lunch. SWEET!!! Then, I got my oil changed. A necessity. I could probably do it myself and save money, but I'd rather have the dealership do it. Plus--they know how to "properly" (I hope) dispose of the waste product. Didn't need any other maintenance or upkeep done. Again--SWEET!!!
Went into DSM and dropped a car load of stuff off at the new place. Due to a misunderstanding about dinner (I thought I was going out with people, WRONG) I had to get fast food (STARVING, little time) . . . however, I did get Culver's, which is more like medium food. And actually CHEAPER than the equivalent at McDonalds!!! Didn't spend any money the rest of the night--just played some home run derby.
Total Expenses: $31 (oil change), $4.00 (dinner)
DAY 24: SATURDAY
Had to drive into DSM in the morning to go to "orientation" to volunteer with the Raccoon Valley Animal Sanctuary. Not what I was looking for . . . Got carry out Thai food since I was in town, and filled up my tank at BP. Also stopped and picked up a prescription refill and a cheese danish and sweet tea--my biggest guilty pleasures.
Spent the rest of the day packing/cleaning my apartment. Had to run to buy some cleaning supplies (0ven cleaner). Dropped off more stuff to donate (books at the library, clothing).
Total Expenses: $38 (gas), $11 (Thai), $18 (prescription and sweets), $5 (cleaning supplies)
DAY 25: SUNDAY (aka MOVING DAY)
Woke up and started more cleaning/packing. Got lunch from HyVee b/c I had cleaned my oven and didn't want to dirty it up.
Had a bunch of people come out to help w/ the move so it only took one trip. (but 4 vehicles) Need to pay them all back somehow. Didn't spend any money that night.
Total Expenses: $6
Went to work, was going to have to buy lunch b/c I forgot to bring mine and was getting an oil change later so I didn't want to make two car trips DURING the workday. But as fate had it, one of my Judges treated me to lunch. SWEET!!! Then, I got my oil changed. A necessity. I could probably do it myself and save money, but I'd rather have the dealership do it. Plus--they know how to "properly" (I hope) dispose of the waste product. Didn't need any other maintenance or upkeep done. Again--SWEET!!!
Went into DSM and dropped a car load of stuff off at the new place. Due to a misunderstanding about dinner (I thought I was going out with people, WRONG) I had to get fast food (STARVING, little time) . . . however, I did get Culver's, which is more like medium food. And actually CHEAPER than the equivalent at McDonalds!!! Didn't spend any money the rest of the night--just played some home run derby.
Total Expenses: $31 (oil change), $4.00 (dinner)
DAY 24: SATURDAY
Had to drive into DSM in the morning to go to "orientation" to volunteer with the Raccoon Valley Animal Sanctuary. Not what I was looking for . . . Got carry out Thai food since I was in town, and filled up my tank at BP. Also stopped and picked up a prescription refill and a cheese danish and sweet tea--my biggest guilty pleasures.
Spent the rest of the day packing/cleaning my apartment. Had to run to buy some cleaning supplies (0ven cleaner). Dropped off more stuff to donate (books at the library, clothing).
Total Expenses: $38 (gas), $11 (Thai), $18 (prescription and sweets), $5 (cleaning supplies)
DAY 25: SUNDAY (aka MOVING DAY)
Woke up and started more cleaning/packing. Got lunch from HyVee b/c I had cleaned my oven and didn't want to dirty it up.
Had a bunch of people come out to help w/ the move so it only took one trip. (but 4 vehicles) Need to pay them all back somehow. Didn't spend any money that night.
Total Expenses: $6
Friday, May 23, 2008
DAY 2-2
Work, boring. Brought lunch.
I called the Treasurer's Office about changing my address for my vehicle registration and they let me pay over the phone. SWEET. One less thing to worry about.
I went to the Post Office to drop off a box of books I am "selling" -- postage paid for.
And my sweet tooth got OUT OF HAND at the end of the day and so I went over to the coffee shop and got a piece of cheesecake AND an iced mocha . . . d'oh!!!
Packed a little, cleaned out drawers. Took my unwanted clothes (4 garbage bags so far) to the donation place. Except . . . I was stupid. The sign for donations was over a garbage bin so I just threw them in there. Then I realized IT WAS THE GARBAGE!!! I was able to get one out by just reaching in, but I had to go home and get clothes hangers to scoop the other three out with. I would have felt so bad/stupid had I not been able to get them out of the garbage and into the donation box!!! AHHHHH!!!
TOTAL EXPENSES: $170 (registration) + $6 (coffee shop)
I called the Treasurer's Office about changing my address for my vehicle registration and they let me pay over the phone. SWEET. One less thing to worry about.
I went to the Post Office to drop off a box of books I am "selling" -- postage paid for.
And my sweet tooth got OUT OF HAND at the end of the day and so I went over to the coffee shop and got a piece of cheesecake AND an iced mocha . . . d'oh!!!
Packed a little, cleaned out drawers. Took my unwanted clothes (4 garbage bags so far) to the donation place. Except . . . I was stupid. The sign for donations was over a garbage bin so I just threw them in there. Then I realized IT WAS THE GARBAGE!!! I was able to get one out by just reaching in, but I had to go home and get clothes hangers to scoop the other three out with. I would have felt so bad/stupid had I not been able to get them out of the garbage and into the donation box!!! AHHHHH!!!
TOTAL EXPENSES: $170 (registration) + $6 (coffee shop)
Thursday, May 22, 2008
DAY 21
Well, I almost spent no money today . . .
Work, brought lunch and an apple to snack on. Actually ate my lunch outside b/c it was so nice, and moved outside to do some reading of cases b/c I kept falling asleep at my desk. However, I did use some of the coins from my coin jar to buy candy--TWICE. It was one of THOSE days during THAT week, if you catch my drift.
Then I went home and packed. I really need to find a home for my law books, so I looked some of them up online and was able to sell 13 books for $40. In August, I had signed up to sell the same books (plus a few more) for $250, but never sent them out b/c of problems with PayPal . . . kicking myself for that one. But $40 is still money, and even if they don't accept them, at least they are out of my hands! I think the rest of them I am just going to take to the Law School and leave on the FREE table, and put the studyguides in the DLW donation box. I sat on them waaaay too long . . .
My sweet tooth got the best of me again and I ended up going to DQ to get a Brownie Waffle Bowl . . . they are so good and I was not thinking/acting rationally!
I did more packing and am starting to get my game plan SET for this move. The less stuff I have to move, the BETTER.
Total Expenses: $5.00 (oh, and $31.75 for my gym membership autopay that cleared)
Work, brought lunch and an apple to snack on. Actually ate my lunch outside b/c it was so nice, and moved outside to do some reading of cases b/c I kept falling asleep at my desk. However, I did use some of the coins from my coin jar to buy candy--TWICE. It was one of THOSE days during THAT week, if you catch my drift.
Then I went home and packed. I really need to find a home for my law books, so I looked some of them up online and was able to sell 13 books for $40. In August, I had signed up to sell the same books (plus a few more) for $250, but never sent them out b/c of problems with PayPal . . . kicking myself for that one. But $40 is still money, and even if they don't accept them, at least they are out of my hands! I think the rest of them I am just going to take to the Law School and leave on the FREE table, and put the studyguides in the DLW donation box. I sat on them waaaay too long . . .
My sweet tooth got the best of me again and I ended up going to DQ to get a Brownie Waffle Bowl . . . they are so good and I was not thinking/acting rationally!
I did more packing and am starting to get my game plan SET for this move. The less stuff I have to move, the BETTER.
Total Expenses: $5.00 (oh, and $31.75 for my gym membership autopay that cleared)
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
DAY TWENTY
Pretty cheap day that could have been cheaper had it not been for my bone scan taking longer than supposed to . . .
Had to be in DSM for bone scan at 8am. Didn't get seen until almost 9:30, when they injected me with RADIOACTIVE DYE (can that be healthy?!) and did a pre-scan. I was originally told to be back 2 hours later to do the scan. This was what I had planned on, and was going to go home when done and have lunch there and then go to work. NOT THE CASE. By the time my pre-scan was done, they had bumped my scan back to 12:30!!! AHHH! And they told me to eat lunch beforehand or else I would get hungry b/c the scan would take too long! LAME. So during my break I stopped to carry-out lunch at Jason's Deli (I occasionally crave their chicken salad crosissant like crazy . . . so good! Pineapple in the chicken salad!!!) and ate it in my car at the hospital. So classy.
I finally got back to work at 2:30 and researched Uhauls for my move . . . not going to happen. While it does cost only $19.95 for the day, it also costs $.59/mile!!! Not economical at all for a move that is 20 miles away--one way!!! And it doesn't include gas!!! I looked into one-way and that was even more expensive, even though it would mean LESS use!!! LAME.
Other than that, didn't spend anything. Prepared some of my delicious forzen groceries for dinner and binge ate. YES.
Had to be in DSM for bone scan at 8am. Didn't get seen until almost 9:30, when they injected me with RADIOACTIVE DYE (can that be healthy?!) and did a pre-scan. I was originally told to be back 2 hours later to do the scan. This was what I had planned on, and was going to go home when done and have lunch there and then go to work. NOT THE CASE. By the time my pre-scan was done, they had bumped my scan back to 12:30!!! AHHH! And they told me to eat lunch beforehand or else I would get hungry b/c the scan would take too long! LAME. So during my break I stopped to carry-out lunch at Jason's Deli (I occasionally crave their chicken salad crosissant like crazy . . . so good! Pineapple in the chicken salad!!!) and ate it in my car at the hospital. So classy.
I finally got back to work at 2:30 and researched Uhauls for my move . . . not going to happen. While it does cost only $19.95 for the day, it also costs $.59/mile!!! Not economical at all for a move that is 20 miles away--one way!!! And it doesn't include gas!!! I looked into one-way and that was even more expensive, even though it would mean LESS use!!! LAME.
Other than that, didn't spend anything. Prepared some of my delicious forzen groceries for dinner and binge ate. YES.
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
DAY NINETEEN
Back to work. Slept in, so I ate lunch at home.
Worked, then grocery shopped. Unfortunately, did it HUNGRY! However, I did buy all frozen food/lunches to last me through the week until I move, and some fresh apples. So it was all SMART purchases. I forgot my HyVee bag at home, but I just bought another one . . . makes sense to have two total as HyVee will be the closest store to my new home so I will ultimately end up shopping there more than I do now . . . plus the Mills Civic HyVee is AWESOME!
TOTAL EXPENSES: $35 grocery
Worked, then grocery shopped. Unfortunately, did it HUNGRY! However, I did buy all frozen food/lunches to last me through the week until I move, and some fresh apples. So it was all SMART purchases. I forgot my HyVee bag at home, but I just bought another one . . . makes sense to have two total as HyVee will be the closest store to my new home so I will ultimately end up shopping there more than I do now . . . plus the Mills Civic HyVee is AWESOME!
TOTAL EXPENSES: $35 grocery
DAYS 14 - 18
PORTLAND.
DAY 14: Had to get up early and go to airport. I just parked in the economy lot (which I thought was $3/day). Bought a pack of gum for the plane so my ears wouldn't pop. Bought breakfast in Minneapolis (I was starving!!!). Was able to get on an earlier flight to Portland. Walked around a bit, went to lunch at Laughing Planet (Adam's treat). Didn't really spend any money, until we had appetizers at a Bar.
DAY 15: HIKE. Bought water and other drinks when done. SO THIRSTY!!! Again, didn't spend much money . . . only $10 at a hookah bar for my drinks, bread, and my share of the hookah.
DAY 16: Breakfast at Paradox . . . treated by Angie for my birthday. Shopped a lot. Bought small little items with cash, then bought clothing with my debit card. I felt like I bought a lot, but that was probably just b/c I hadn't been buying much for myself recently!!! Also got a haircut . . . WHY NOT?! I would have paid more for one here, honestly. AND IT WAS AN EXPERIENCE. Also indulged in some Ben & Jerry's. Went to dinner at a Vietnamese place (the Thai place we had set out for was CLOSED!!!) and I discovered I love PORK. Then, went out to a bar. Candice put our portion of the tab on her card, and I paid her back for my portion ($12) the next day.
DAY 17: Farmer's Market. Took the bus ($1.75) and bought lunch there ($6). Also bought a few drinks (I was sooo thirsty!!!). Also went to Saturday Market. Candice treated us to VOODOO DONUTS. Had a BBQ at Candice/Adam/Sean's. I downloaded a few songs and the new Death Cab album on my iPhone (couldn't help it, and Death Cab is on my short list of bands whom I will ALWAYS buy their albums). Got a little drunk, and made continued trips for Sparks. Bought Adam a pack of cigs. Bought myself one cigar and a lotto ticket.
DAY 18: Flew out. Bought gum at airport. Had dinner at Chili's during my layover. Figured it would eat up some of the time!!! Got back and paid for my parking, which was actually $4/day, so it was $20 total.
Overall, pretty cheap!!!
TOTAL EXPENSES: $100 cash, $110 debit card.
DAY 14: Had to get up early and go to airport. I just parked in the economy lot (which I thought was $3/day). Bought a pack of gum for the plane so my ears wouldn't pop. Bought breakfast in Minneapolis (I was starving!!!). Was able to get on an earlier flight to Portland. Walked around a bit, went to lunch at Laughing Planet (Adam's treat). Didn't really spend any money, until we had appetizers at a Bar.
DAY 15: HIKE. Bought water and other drinks when done. SO THIRSTY!!! Again, didn't spend much money . . . only $10 at a hookah bar for my drinks, bread, and my share of the hookah.
DAY 16: Breakfast at Paradox . . . treated by Angie for my birthday. Shopped a lot. Bought small little items with cash, then bought clothing with my debit card. I felt like I bought a lot, but that was probably just b/c I hadn't been buying much for myself recently!!! Also got a haircut . . . WHY NOT?! I would have paid more for one here, honestly. AND IT WAS AN EXPERIENCE. Also indulged in some Ben & Jerry's. Went to dinner at a Vietnamese place (the Thai place we had set out for was CLOSED!!!) and I discovered I love PORK. Then, went out to a bar. Candice put our portion of the tab on her card, and I paid her back for my portion ($12) the next day.
DAY 17: Farmer's Market. Took the bus ($1.75) and bought lunch there ($6). Also bought a few drinks (I was sooo thirsty!!!). Also went to Saturday Market. Candice treated us to VOODOO DONUTS. Had a BBQ at Candice/Adam/Sean's. I downloaded a few songs and the new Death Cab album on my iPhone (couldn't help it, and Death Cab is on my short list of bands whom I will ALWAYS buy their albums). Got a little drunk, and made continued trips for Sparks. Bought Adam a pack of cigs. Bought myself one cigar and a lotto ticket.
DAY 18: Flew out. Bought gum at airport. Had dinner at Chili's during my layover. Figured it would eat up some of the time!!! Got back and paid for my parking, which was actually $4/day, so it was $20 total.
Overall, pretty cheap!!!
TOTAL EXPENSES: $100 cash, $110 debit card.
Monday, May 19, 2008
Day Thirteen
(NOTE: I will do a seperate post for PORTLAND)
Spent this day preparing for my upcoming vacation. Paid some bills online to make sure they were done before I left. Decided to only pay the minimum on my Target bill instead of the usual $25 flat auto pay I have set up in order to conserve cash for the week. WOO--$15 saved for the month. HA. Sent off my BOA credit bill and was also going to only pay the minimum ($15), but instead sent off the $40 I have been sending. It has no interest for one year so I am trying to get it all paid off (or pretty damn close) before then. My Mom should start paying on it at some point (it's actually HER debt in MY name . . . how nice) but I am just taking care of it until then, and probably will continue sending in payments regardless. Cleaning up my credit is waaay too important to me.
Had another doctor appointment in the am for my leg. Thank God for $10 copay!!!
Went to lunch in South DSM with Kendra. This is a monthly thing we do--meet in the middle. However, since I am moving to DSM this week it would make no sense to meet for lunch anymore (I'd drive to Indianola to work, then DSM for lunch and back, then BACK to DSM) so this is our last lunch before we switch to . . . HAPPY HOURS!!! Had some yummy Thai food!!!
Went and bought a few grocery items after work, and finally bought a reusable HyVee bag. I usually only buy 1-2 bags worth of groceries at HyVee b/c they are generally more expensive, but there are certain items I HAVE to get there. Also bought some stamps while I was there (ONE STOP SHOPPING). Also stopped by my bank's ATM (NO FEES) and took out $60 cash to use on my trip.
After I got home, I realized I forgot a few needed items for the trip. So, I had to go back a little later and buy them. Then I went to bed EARLY.
Total Expenses: $570.33 ($408.67 = car payment, $10 target bill, $10 copay, $10.95 lunch, $60 ATM, $40 BOA Bill, $21 grocery, $10.01 forgotten stuff for trip)
Spent this day preparing for my upcoming vacation. Paid some bills online to make sure they were done before I left. Decided to only pay the minimum on my Target bill instead of the usual $25 flat auto pay I have set up in order to conserve cash for the week. WOO--$15 saved for the month. HA. Sent off my BOA credit bill and was also going to only pay the minimum ($15), but instead sent off the $40 I have been sending. It has no interest for one year so I am trying to get it all paid off (or pretty damn close) before then. My Mom should start paying on it at some point (it's actually HER debt in MY name . . . how nice) but I am just taking care of it until then, and probably will continue sending in payments regardless. Cleaning up my credit is waaay too important to me.
Had another doctor appointment in the am for my leg. Thank God for $10 copay!!!
Went to lunch in South DSM with Kendra. This is a monthly thing we do--meet in the middle. However, since I am moving to DSM this week it would make no sense to meet for lunch anymore (I'd drive to Indianola to work, then DSM for lunch and back, then BACK to DSM) so this is our last lunch before we switch to . . . HAPPY HOURS!!! Had some yummy Thai food!!!
Went and bought a few grocery items after work, and finally bought a reusable HyVee bag. I usually only buy 1-2 bags worth of groceries at HyVee b/c they are generally more expensive, but there are certain items I HAVE to get there. Also bought some stamps while I was there (ONE STOP SHOPPING). Also stopped by my bank's ATM (NO FEES) and took out $60 cash to use on my trip.
After I got home, I realized I forgot a few needed items for the trip. So, I had to go back a little later and buy them. Then I went to bed EARLY.
Total Expenses: $570.33 ($408.67 = car payment, $10 target bill, $10 copay, $10.95 lunch, $60 ATM, $40 BOA Bill, $21 grocery, $10.01 forgotten stuff for trip)
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
THE TWELFTH DAY
The good thing about working? I can usually count on spending little money.
As I STILL have no breakfast foods on hand (I really need to pick up some granola bars!!!), I went to work STARVING. I finally decided to walk across the street to the locally-owned coffee shop and by SOMETHING. I got a muffin (A BIG ONE) for a mere $1.50, but then I tipped the tip jar $1, as I usually pay on card and don't leave a tip (they'd have to report it to the IRS). I figure I'll just leave relatively large cash tips whenever I can.
I went "out" for lunch, but I had already assumed that was going to happen. I stopped at Quizno's and picked up one of their OVER-PRICED, yet delicious sandwiches. I need to remember to order the SMALL and not the REGULAR next time. That little trick gets me every time!
After work, I cleaned out my closet. I now have one bag of trash and three bags of clothes/shoes to donate. I need to get all my old dishes together, too, and donate them. I don't need as many dishes as I have, especially with moving into Nick's house. This summer, I bought a 4 piece set for four people, and that's probably all I need. But you can NEVER have too many glasses!!!
Later, I talked to my sister and was able to get some more of my belongings off my hand. She's gonna take my extra stereo (w/ 8 track/record . . . I already have an 8 track and record player!!!) and all my parents' 8 tracks. SWEET. It was my Dad's teenage stereo, and I couldn't really bear the thought of giving it away to someone else (my grandparents had it set up in their spare room for all of our childhood until they acquired greatgrandma's stereo after she died).
Then, I got a sweet tooth. But instead of driving to the store, I gathered up change I had and walked down to the gas station. WELL PLAYED.
As I STILL have no breakfast foods on hand (I really need to pick up some granola bars!!!), I went to work STARVING. I finally decided to walk across the street to the locally-owned coffee shop and by SOMETHING. I got a muffin (A BIG ONE) for a mere $1.50, but then I tipped the tip jar $1, as I usually pay on card and don't leave a tip (they'd have to report it to the IRS). I figure I'll just leave relatively large cash tips whenever I can.
I went "out" for lunch, but I had already assumed that was going to happen. I stopped at Quizno's and picked up one of their OVER-PRICED, yet delicious sandwiches. I need to remember to order the SMALL and not the REGULAR next time. That little trick gets me every time!
After work, I cleaned out my closet. I now have one bag of trash and three bags of clothes/shoes to donate. I need to get all my old dishes together, too, and donate them. I don't need as many dishes as I have, especially with moving into Nick's house. This summer, I bought a 4 piece set for four people, and that's probably all I need. But you can NEVER have too many glasses!!!
Later, I talked to my sister and was able to get some more of my belongings off my hand. She's gonna take my extra stereo (w/ 8 track/record . . . I already have an 8 track and record player!!!) and all my parents' 8 tracks. SWEET. It was my Dad's teenage stereo, and I couldn't really bear the thought of giving it away to someone else (my grandparents had it set up in their spare room for all of our childhood until they acquired greatgrandma's stereo after she died).
Then, I got a sweet tooth. But instead of driving to the store, I gathered up change I had and walked down to the gas station. WELL PLAYED.
Monday, May 12, 2008
day 'leven
Lazy day.
I realized I had forgotten to purchase toilet paper at the grocery store when I went there, so I had to stop by Dollar General to pick some up on the way to the gym. Toilet paper just sucks . . . unless you have like a fancy bidet or something, you need to buy it. And then there's the whole comfort factor . . . I'm too proud for Scott brand and all that cheap rough stuff! So I settle on Charmin Basic . . . cheap, but not too fancy.
On the way home from the gym I ran into Dairy Queen and got one of those brownie sundae waffle bowls . . . DAMN THE COMMERCIALS! But I had a sweet tooth, and it was either stop there, which was on the way, or go out of my way for sweets.
Then I drove into DSM later for dodgeball and movienight at Blake/Kevin's. Had to get gas on the way back, so I drove a little further until I found BP. Bought the ethanol grade, but I buy the normal non-ethanol whenever I am going on long trips b/c I get more mileage. Otherwise, I go for whatever is cheapest. My mileage for my last tank was 37.6 mpg . . . NOT BAD. Nice to finally get away from the poor mileage that winter driving and the additives that are put in gas in cold weather bring . . . I also again pumped "slower" to avoid having excess air being pumped into my tank along with the gas.
Total expenses: $48.00 ($38 was gas)
I realized I had forgotten to purchase toilet paper at the grocery store when I went there, so I had to stop by Dollar General to pick some up on the way to the gym. Toilet paper just sucks . . . unless you have like a fancy bidet or something, you need to buy it. And then there's the whole comfort factor . . . I'm too proud for Scott brand and all that cheap rough stuff! So I settle on Charmin Basic . . . cheap, but not too fancy.
On the way home from the gym I ran into Dairy Queen and got one of those brownie sundae waffle bowls . . . DAMN THE COMMERCIALS! But I had a sweet tooth, and it was either stop there, which was on the way, or go out of my way for sweets.
Then I drove into DSM later for dodgeball and movienight at Blake/Kevin's. Had to get gas on the way back, so I drove a little further until I found BP. Bought the ethanol grade, but I buy the normal non-ethanol whenever I am going on long trips b/c I get more mileage. Otherwise, I go for whatever is cheapest. My mileage for my last tank was 37.6 mpg . . . NOT BAD. Nice to finally get away from the poor mileage that winter driving and the additives that are put in gas in cold weather bring . . . I also again pumped "slower" to avoid having excess air being pumped into my tank along with the gas.
Total expenses: $48.00 ($38 was gas)
Sunday, May 11, 2008
Day TEN
Weekend.
I slept in a bit, thought about packing a bit. Ran to the grocery store for a few items. As I am moving so soon, I can't really buy "ingredients" to make stuff, so I am focusing on only pre-made items that I can heat up until I move. Kinda wasteful (in the processing, etc., of these items), but it would be even more wasteful had I bought a bunch of "ingredients" that I wouldn't have been able to use before the move.
Then, I carpooled with friends to other friends' going away party 2 hours away to save on gas money. And I asked the friend who drove if he wanted $$$ for gas, and he said NO. SCORE.
So, free gas followed by free food and drink at the party. NIIICE.
Went to a bar when back in town for a friend's birthday, but I didn't drink and therefore SAVED MONEY. I am conserving my LIVER and my MONEY for Portland next week . . .
Total Expenses: $14.55
I slept in a bit, thought about packing a bit. Ran to the grocery store for a few items. As I am moving so soon, I can't really buy "ingredients" to make stuff, so I am focusing on only pre-made items that I can heat up until I move. Kinda wasteful (in the processing, etc., of these items), but it would be even more wasteful had I bought a bunch of "ingredients" that I wouldn't have been able to use before the move.
Then, I carpooled with friends to other friends' going away party 2 hours away to save on gas money. And I asked the friend who drove if he wanted $$$ for gas, and he said NO. SCORE.
So, free gas followed by free food and drink at the party. NIIICE.
Went to a bar when back in town for a friend's birthday, but I didn't drink and therefore SAVED MONEY. I am conserving my LIVER and my MONEY for Portland next week . . .
Total Expenses: $14.55
Saturday, May 10, 2008
Day Nine
Another day of work.
I was hungry and had skipped breakfast, so luckily there were "treats" leftover from FOOD DAY for breakfast.
One of my judges emailed me about traveling to a different county for the afternoon. It would mean 80 miles total of driving that I normally wouldn't do, but it was for work AND I get reimbursed for the travel.
However, I did use it as an excuse to stop at a Wendy's and indulge my cravings. Which is okay, b/c I said Wendy's was the exception. MUAHAHAH.
When I was on the highway, I tried to use cruise control as much as possible to help with my mileage. I am weird about cruise control--I start to panic when the car "surges" on its own, especially when taking curves. I blame this on the bad car accident I was in--I don't like being reminded that I am not completely in control of my vehicle and when I feel it "drive on its own" it really freaks me out. But I did pretty well yesterday. I kept it on during a few curves, and only took it off when I had to merge, then was unable to keep it on after that b/c there was sooo much traffic driving at irregular speeds. It's a start!!!
Last night, I drove into DSM to go to a friend's going away party at a bar. I only had two drinks. Then I met up with a friend at another bar and I had NO drinks. All in all, a pretty cheap day.
Total expenses: $80 (including $67 for my LAST cable bill!!!)
I was hungry and had skipped breakfast, so luckily there were "treats" leftover from FOOD DAY for breakfast.
One of my judges emailed me about traveling to a different county for the afternoon. It would mean 80 miles total of driving that I normally wouldn't do, but it was for work AND I get reimbursed for the travel.
However, I did use it as an excuse to stop at a Wendy's and indulge my cravings. Which is okay, b/c I said Wendy's was the exception. MUAHAHAH.
When I was on the highway, I tried to use cruise control as much as possible to help with my mileage. I am weird about cruise control--I start to panic when the car "surges" on its own, especially when taking curves. I blame this on the bad car accident I was in--I don't like being reminded that I am not completely in control of my vehicle and when I feel it "drive on its own" it really freaks me out. But I did pretty well yesterday. I kept it on during a few curves, and only took it off when I had to merge, then was unable to keep it on after that b/c there was sooo much traffic driving at irregular speeds. It's a start!!!
Last night, I drove into DSM to go to a friend's going away party at a bar. I only had two drinks. Then I met up with a friend at another bar and I had NO drinks. All in all, a pretty cheap day.
Total expenses: $80 (including $67 for my LAST cable bill!!!)
Friday, May 9, 2008
DAY OCHO
Another normal day. Except it was FOOD DAY at work, so I didn't have to bring in or buy lunch. I brought in my guacamole and it was a hit, except I was binge eating all day. However, no one brought in any HOT FOOD this week, so it was a bit dissapointing.
OBSERVATION/GOAL: Next FOOD DAY, I will bring in a plate to use (as in a REAL, washable plate). There were disposable paper and styrofoam plates to use, and they were small. And people would make several trips. So, this essentially leads to people grabbing a few small items and then throwing away their plate, then going back later and getting ANOTHER plate . . . Even when trying to be conscious of my waste, I used three plates. And the napkins! I am so messy so I go through napkins/paper towells so quickly. At home, I use/reuse a kitchen towell with my meals instead of paper towells, so perhaps bringing in a cloth towell for my "messes" would be another way to "minimize."
I also had my monthly chiro appointment, which I walked to (less than a block). My old chiro made us change into gowns for our adjustments; my current one doesn't. Which makes SENSE and saves energy/water that it would take to WASH several gowns every day. Paper is used on the part of the table where our heads go, and that is then thrown away (like in a doctor's office) . . . I guess this is part of the competing interests between sanitation and preservation . . . Don't really know what to say about that (Except: last time I was at the gym, they didn't have the buckets with disposable wipes out anymore, and I saw a worker wiping down all the machines . . . perhaps they are going to change to reusable cloths and spray disinfectant?).
Then, I had to go to the doctor to have my leg looked at. I could have walked had my LEG NOT HURT FROM WALKING (it's about 5 blocks away), but I just drove . . . plus, it was close to being a time where I wouldn't have had to return to work. Again, same general observations: the use of paper products to "sanitize." But I again didn't have to change into a gown (it seemed like in the past you would ALWAYS have to change into a gown for ANYTHING . . . I think they only time I have to now is for the dreaded yearly exam . . . ). It's just a hard balance to strike between sterilty and environmental concerns . . .
Last night, I made the DRIVE to DSM (all highway, so better mileage) to go to dinner with some friends. At the onset of dinner there was mention of my dinner being covered, but I said not to worry about it b/c I had already been treated to a birthday dinner and the other birthday girl hadn't yet, so I was okay with treating myself. Although I was near all the shopping places, I did NOT shop after!!!
Total Expenses: $32 (two $10 copay plus $12 for dinner)
OBSERVATION/GOAL: Next FOOD DAY, I will bring in a plate to use (as in a REAL, washable plate). There were disposable paper and styrofoam plates to use, and they were small. And people would make several trips. So, this essentially leads to people grabbing a few small items and then throwing away their plate, then going back later and getting ANOTHER plate . . . Even when trying to be conscious of my waste, I used three plates. And the napkins! I am so messy so I go through napkins/paper towells so quickly. At home, I use/reuse a kitchen towell with my meals instead of paper towells, so perhaps bringing in a cloth towell for my "messes" would be another way to "minimize."
I also had my monthly chiro appointment, which I walked to (less than a block). My old chiro made us change into gowns for our adjustments; my current one doesn't. Which makes SENSE and saves energy/water that it would take to WASH several gowns every day. Paper is used on the part of the table where our heads go, and that is then thrown away (like in a doctor's office) . . . I guess this is part of the competing interests between sanitation and preservation . . . Don't really know what to say about that (Except: last time I was at the gym, they didn't have the buckets with disposable wipes out anymore, and I saw a worker wiping down all the machines . . . perhaps they are going to change to reusable cloths and spray disinfectant?).
Then, I had to go to the doctor to have my leg looked at. I could have walked had my LEG NOT HURT FROM WALKING (it's about 5 blocks away), but I just drove . . . plus, it was close to being a time where I wouldn't have had to return to work. Again, same general observations: the use of paper products to "sanitize." But I again didn't have to change into a gown (it seemed like in the past you would ALWAYS have to change into a gown for ANYTHING . . . I think they only time I have to now is for the dreaded yearly exam . . . ). It's just a hard balance to strike between sterilty and environmental concerns . . .
Last night, I made the DRIVE to DSM (all highway, so better mileage) to go to dinner with some friends. At the onset of dinner there was mention of my dinner being covered, but I said not to worry about it b/c I had already been treated to a birthday dinner and the other birthday girl hadn't yet, so I was okay with treating myself. Although I was near all the shopping places, I did NOT shop after!!!
Total Expenses: $32 (two $10 copay plus $12 for dinner)
Thursday, May 8, 2008
DAY SEVEN
Today was pretty chill . . . just work/run/home.
I paid my $5 for this month's "water." There is a water cooler thing downstairs and you can pay $5 for all the water you want. I drink out of the same glass everyday--one that I brought in myself. Everyone else does the same. This way, people aren't always buying wasteful small water bottles. I haven't heard anything too bad about using the large "culligan"-ish water bottles . . . YET. But $5 for good, cold water in my own cup every day is better than shelling out a couple bucks a day for water bottles that will just get thrown away.
I brought in my leftovers for lunch . . . this was good on two levels: 1) I didn't spend any money on anything I didn't actually need for lunch; and 2) I didn't have to drive anywhere for lunch.
I also spent yesterday "cleaning" my office and setting aside a box for paper that can no longer be used. I will recycle that paper when I am done with it. I looked up recycling options in Indianola. Apparently, EVERYONE is charged $2.50 a month on their utility bill for curbside recycling. One day a week, your recycling will get picked up. However, I live in an apartment and I have NEVER seen anybody leave out recycling (but our pickup is apparently 7am on tuesdays . . . maybe that is why). I wish there was a drop-off facility, too. I know there is waaaay out in the next rural town over, but driving 10 miles to drop off recycling? That just seems WASTEFUL. So, I will keep a watch out Monday night and see if people take out their recycling and then look and see if they acually pick it up from our apartment or not . . . I swear they DON'T.
Last night, I remembered it was "food day" at work so I decided I would make some guacamole so I drove to the store. The closest grocery store, which is in walking distance, did not have ANY ripe avocados, so I drove a few miles to the next closest one and got everything I need. I have a serious problem with the bundling of cilantro. It was only available for purchase in HUGE bunches . . . much more than I needed. So now I have a whole bunch of cilantro to find something to do with!!! ANNOYING. Hopefully, once the farmer markets are open (THIS WEEKEND!) I will have more options . . . cilantro is soo good!!!
Total expenses: $22.30
I paid my $5 for this month's "water." There is a water cooler thing downstairs and you can pay $5 for all the water you want. I drink out of the same glass everyday--one that I brought in myself. Everyone else does the same. This way, people aren't always buying wasteful small water bottles. I haven't heard anything too bad about using the large "culligan"-ish water bottles . . . YET. But $5 for good, cold water in my own cup every day is better than shelling out a couple bucks a day for water bottles that will just get thrown away.
I brought in my leftovers for lunch . . . this was good on two levels: 1) I didn't spend any money on anything I didn't actually need for lunch; and 2) I didn't have to drive anywhere for lunch.
I also spent yesterday "cleaning" my office and setting aside a box for paper that can no longer be used. I will recycle that paper when I am done with it. I looked up recycling options in Indianola. Apparently, EVERYONE is charged $2.50 a month on their utility bill for curbside recycling. One day a week, your recycling will get picked up. However, I live in an apartment and I have NEVER seen anybody leave out recycling (but our pickup is apparently 7am on tuesdays . . . maybe that is why). I wish there was a drop-off facility, too. I know there is waaaay out in the next rural town over, but driving 10 miles to drop off recycling? That just seems WASTEFUL. So, I will keep a watch out Monday night and see if people take out their recycling and then look and see if they acually pick it up from our apartment or not . . . I swear they DON'T.
Last night, I remembered it was "food day" at work so I decided I would make some guacamole so I drove to the store. The closest grocery store, which is in walking distance, did not have ANY ripe avocados, so I drove a few miles to the next closest one and got everything I need. I have a serious problem with the bundling of cilantro. It was only available for purchase in HUGE bunches . . . much more than I needed. So now I have a whole bunch of cilantro to find something to do with!!! ANNOYING. Hopefully, once the farmer markets are open (THIS WEEKEND!) I will have more options . . . cilantro is soo good!!!
Total expenses: $22.30
Wednesday, May 7, 2008
DAY SIX
This day was my birthday.
And in true birthday fashion, I did not spend too much!
I made an appointment over lunch to get my eyebrows waxed. I absolutely HATE plucking them myself and would much rather have hot wax applied and ripped off than having each little hair pulled out individually . . . and it also is a "service" so paying someone to do it for me puts some money in their pockets and helps support them. SEE!!! Services!!! I wasn't able to tell if she used reusable cloth or throw-away paper to do the waxing (my eyes were closed!) but that would be a good way to SAVE resources. Of course, I have no idea if the used wax with hair stuck on it would be washable, but it's worth the thought! I also don't know exactly what the "wax" was comprised of . . . different places I have gone to have used different substances--some using "wax substitutes."
Salons are such a weird area . . . you are paying for a service, but for a lot of those services products are used that might not necessarily be so good for the environment. And there are SO many natural beauty techniques and ingredients for products! Might be worth looking into "green" salons.
Then, I was hungry and again did not have any quick fixes so I went to HyVee and bought a bag of Flat Earth chips . . . overpriced, but sooo good. And "natural." I dipped them in leftover ranch dressing I had from the day before's lunch. And I got a candybar . . . I needed my sweets!!!
I left work early and took a nap on my couch with the door open . . . I am not going to turn my AC on at my apartment AT ALL. I only have a few more weeks there, so I think I can pull it off--though I do love being COMFORTABLE.
Then, I drove (necessary evil when you live 25 miles away) to DSM for birthday dinner. I am glad that 2.5 years ago and made such a responsible choice in buying my car based on its mileage!!! I can't even imagine how much money I've saved on gas . . .
Dinner was good (bought for me) and we sure did eat all the chips that Mexican restaraunts automatically put on the table! I was so full from the chips/salsa/queso/margarita that I only had ONE BITE of my dinner, but I brought it home so I have lunch today! (Will be discussed tomorrow). But of course--STYROFOAM.
Total Expenses: $19 ($16 for brow wax)
And in true birthday fashion, I did not spend too much!
I made an appointment over lunch to get my eyebrows waxed. I absolutely HATE plucking them myself and would much rather have hot wax applied and ripped off than having each little hair pulled out individually . . . and it also is a "service" so paying someone to do it for me puts some money in their pockets and helps support them. SEE!!! Services!!! I wasn't able to tell if she used reusable cloth or throw-away paper to do the waxing (my eyes were closed!) but that would be a good way to SAVE resources. Of course, I have no idea if the used wax with hair stuck on it would be washable, but it's worth the thought! I also don't know exactly what the "wax" was comprised of . . . different places I have gone to have used different substances--some using "wax substitutes."
Salons are such a weird area . . . you are paying for a service, but for a lot of those services products are used that might not necessarily be so good for the environment. And there are SO many natural beauty techniques and ingredients for products! Might be worth looking into "green" salons.
Then, I was hungry and again did not have any quick fixes so I went to HyVee and bought a bag of Flat Earth chips . . . overpriced, but sooo good. And "natural." I dipped them in leftover ranch dressing I had from the day before's lunch. And I got a candybar . . . I needed my sweets!!!
I left work early and took a nap on my couch with the door open . . . I am not going to turn my AC on at my apartment AT ALL. I only have a few more weeks there, so I think I can pull it off--though I do love being COMFORTABLE.
Then, I drove (necessary evil when you live 25 miles away) to DSM for birthday dinner. I am glad that 2.5 years ago and made such a responsible choice in buying my car based on its mileage!!! I can't even imagine how much money I've saved on gas . . .
Dinner was good (bought for me) and we sure did eat all the chips that Mexican restaraunts automatically put on the table! I was so full from the chips/salsa/queso/margarita that I only had ONE BITE of my dinner, but I brought it home so I have lunch today! (Will be discussed tomorrow). But of course--STYROFOAM.
Total Expenses: $19 ($16 for brow wax)
Tuesday, May 6, 2008
DAY FIVE
I was pretty good today . . . except for lunch (which seems to be a common trend). I just get so hungry throughout the day that by the time lunch comes, I am starving! And I had no "quick fixes" at home so I ordered carry-out from the bar across the street. LAME. And they used styrofoam, which basically every carry-out place in the world does. Something to keep in mind the next time you think of ordering carry-out . . .
I received an email a couple of weeks ago from my old boss. Her daughter, a sixth grader, wrote letters to a local salon asking them to switch from plastic bags to recycled bags. Well, they--and corporate--listened! Turns out they are part of a national chain and they passed on the note to the Man and the Man started a new policy of using all recycled products! If a sixth-grader can get a national chain to change their ways, then what else is possible?!
I had a real sweet tooth last night, but I fought off the urge to go out and buy something sweet--mostly thanks to brown sugar toast. YUM.
Total Expenses: $10.61
I received an email a couple of weeks ago from my old boss. Her daughter, a sixth grader, wrote letters to a local salon asking them to switch from plastic bags to recycled bags. Well, they--and corporate--listened! Turns out they are part of a national chain and they passed on the note to the Man and the Man started a new policy of using all recycled products! If a sixth-grader can get a national chain to change their ways, then what else is possible?!
I had a real sweet tooth last night, but I fought off the urge to go out and buy something sweet--mostly thanks to brown sugar toast. YUM.
Total Expenses: $10.61
Monday, May 5, 2008
DAY FOUR
There were talks of going out for breakfast on Sunday morning, but luckily we slept in and it did not happen. So, I saved some money there . . . It's hard to turn down breakfast/brunch on the weekends! I am not a big breakfast person, but love it when I have time to leisurely enjoy it with my friends. Plus, most of the time that you "do breakfast" or "do brunch" it is at locally owned places.
I really did not spend anything I didn't have to today . . . with one small exception. I brought one of the dresses I bought back to Target (it was very similar to one I already own, with the exception of a ribbon that goes around the waist . . . I figure I can just wrap a ribbon around if I want the dash of color/something different) so I had $30 put back on to my Target card. I hadn't really ate anything all day, so I did buy a cheese pizza from the Target Pizza Hut . . . but the way I figure: it was premade and if someone didn't buy it, it would just be thrown away. WHAT A WASTE! MUAHAHA!!!
I was hoping I would be able to make my tank of gas last until I got home, but because I did a bunch of city driving in Des Moines I had to fill up on the way home. I really should have filled up before the light when on when I was in West Des Moines at the BP, but I didn't. So I ended up buying gas at the QuikTrip on the way home. I followed a suggestion provided by a gas conserving email my grandma sent and auto-pumped at a slower rate to eliminate some of the air that gets pushed in when you pump (when you pump, there are three little ridges in the handle that "lock" it . . . try using the middle one or the last one . . . I tried the last one and it kept slipping off, but the middle one worked). The email also said it's best to fill up when you are half-empty (half-full?) . . . I will try to do that one next time, too.
Total Expenses: $38.00
I really did not spend anything I didn't have to today . . . with one small exception. I brought one of the dresses I bought back to Target (it was very similar to one I already own, with the exception of a ribbon that goes around the waist . . . I figure I can just wrap a ribbon around if I want the dash of color/something different) so I had $30 put back on to my Target card. I hadn't really ate anything all day, so I did buy a cheese pizza from the Target Pizza Hut . . . but the way I figure: it was premade and if someone didn't buy it, it would just be thrown away. WHAT A WASTE! MUAHAHA!!!
I was hoping I would be able to make my tank of gas last until I got home, but because I did a bunch of city driving in Des Moines I had to fill up on the way home. I really should have filled up before the light when on when I was in West Des Moines at the BP, but I didn't. So I ended up buying gas at the QuikTrip on the way home. I followed a suggestion provided by a gas conserving email my grandma sent and auto-pumped at a slower rate to eliminate some of the air that gets pushed in when you pump (when you pump, there are three little ridges in the handle that "lock" it . . . try using the middle one or the last one . . . I tried the last one and it kept slipping off, but the middle one worked). The email also said it's best to fill up when you are half-empty (half-full?) . . . I will try to do that one next time, too.
Total Expenses: $38.00
Sunday, May 4, 2008
DAY THREE: BALLS OUT
Yesterday morning started off with a trip to Walgreens. I had photos to print-off and pick-up for Emily's bachelorette party gift, and I also picked up colored index cards and stickers for the project. The stickers were only fifty cents, or else I wouldn't have bought them! I did buy a cheese danish for breakfast, though. BOO URNS. The stuff I got for the gift was pretty inexpensive, then I went ahead and got $20 cash back for spending money for the night.
I headed over to Karen's for the party. The gift went over very well! Karen made a lot of appetizers, so I stuffed myself on them so I would spend less on dinner. I was very responsible at dinner. There was guacamole and salsa for the table to share, and a bunch of us shared pitchers of margaritas and sagria. I ordered a cheap tamale appetizer for my meal and it was really good. My total bill was $12, which included a 20% gratuity, but I added another $1 anyways . . . tipping is an area where I will not scrimp, as it directly benefits the server and is what they LIVE ON!!! And if I spend more than I plan on, it's better for that money to be spent on SERVICES rather than GOODS that I don't necessarily need. I can live with that.
I used my cash at the first bar and probably bought more than I should have, but it was a special occassion and I wanted to make sure I was "giving back" since others had paid for my drinks at dinner. I spent $3 on the jukebox just to hear "Sandstorm" by Darude (you can pay extra and have your song play immediately), but that was because of a joke with Emily so I HAD to do it.
At the next bar, I spent the rest of my cash on a photobooth picture, but again--totally necessary given the situation! Just wish the photobooth was cheaper . . . but memories are PRICELESS. Then I used my debit card to buy drinks for me and Anna, but the total with tip was under $15 (not bad, considering I got a vodka red bull and a "standby drink"). And I had them run my card instead of keeping it open so I wouldn't spend anymore.
Total Expenses: About $45 . . . not bad at all for a gift, dinner, AND drinks at two bars. Well done.
I headed over to Karen's for the party. The gift went over very well! Karen made a lot of appetizers, so I stuffed myself on them so I would spend less on dinner. I was very responsible at dinner. There was guacamole and salsa for the table to share, and a bunch of us shared pitchers of margaritas and sagria. I ordered a cheap tamale appetizer for my meal and it was really good. My total bill was $12, which included a 20% gratuity, but I added another $1 anyways . . . tipping is an area where I will not scrimp, as it directly benefits the server and is what they LIVE ON!!! And if I spend more than I plan on, it's better for that money to be spent on SERVICES rather than GOODS that I don't necessarily need. I can live with that.
I used my cash at the first bar and probably bought more than I should have, but it was a special occassion and I wanted to make sure I was "giving back" since others had paid for my drinks at dinner. I spent $3 on the jukebox just to hear "Sandstorm" by Darude (you can pay extra and have your song play immediately), but that was because of a joke with Emily so I HAD to do it.
At the next bar, I spent the rest of my cash on a photobooth picture, but again--totally necessary given the situation! Just wish the photobooth was cheaper . . . but memories are PRICELESS. Then I used my debit card to buy drinks for me and Anna, but the total with tip was under $15 (not bad, considering I got a vodka red bull and a "standby drink"). And I had them run my card instead of keeping it open so I wouldn't spend anymore.
Total Expenses: About $45 . . . not bad at all for a gift, dinner, AND drinks at two bars. Well done.
Saturday, May 3, 2008
DAY TWO
The weekends are where the majority of the "unecessary" spending occurs. However, I do need to be entertained or else I will have a lonely, depressing life . . . and so a balance must be struck.
Last night was spent going to the movies to see "Made of Honor" out at Jordan Creek . . . I bought the ticket via Fandango and printed it out on to a "recycled" piece of paper (My printer only does one side, so I will use paper over and print on the blank side . . . and I just realized I don't think my building recycles so I should probably save all the used paper and recycle it myself . . . d'oh!). I thought it was a smooooth move, but then when I got to the theater they scanned my paper ticket and gave me one of theirs anyways! I'm sorry, but is that necessary? Can't I just use my fandango ticket to show you if I want to go out and get snacks or something? Just a bit ridiculous . . .
As I was already out in shopping-ville (I have to drive 25 minutes, currently, to get out there), I decided to run errands at Target . . . one-stop shopping. On my Target Credit card . . . wooops. I had to shop for a bachelorette party and I was trying to figure out a way to "wrap" the gift that wouldn't be wasteful . . . obviously wrapping paper is stupid, and gift bags/boxes cost too much and more often than not just get thrown out. I was thinking of picking up like a small purse/storage device to "wrap" my gift in, but then I decided to get a small photo album and print off photos from my computer and just "wrap" the photo album in ribbons. Simple.
I also purchased THREE dresses (a lot of special occassions coming up) but I plan to bring 1-2 of them back and return them. I just need second opinions as to if they "work" or not . . .
I also bought a CD binder to put my non-TV series DVDs in to save space. And a pack of gum. And . . . a book on how to save money. HA HA HA HA. This is funny, but I probably should have just BORROWED THE BOOK FROM A LIBRARY OR GOT IT USED. But something about it just sucked me in . . .
Then at the movies I was an idiot and bought a thing of nachos (pre-prepared in a disposable box . . . HA) and a SLUSHIE. And it was ALMOST $9.00 just for those two things . . . IDIOT!!!
Total Expenses: $18.00 (+ $120 on credit that will be reduced when return dress(es))
Last night was spent going to the movies to see "Made of Honor" out at Jordan Creek . . . I bought the ticket via Fandango and printed it out on to a "recycled" piece of paper (My printer only does one side, so I will use paper over and print on the blank side . . . and I just realized I don't think my building recycles so I should probably save all the used paper and recycle it myself . . . d'oh!). I thought it was a smooooth move, but then when I got to the theater they scanned my paper ticket and gave me one of theirs anyways! I'm sorry, but is that necessary? Can't I just use my fandango ticket to show you if I want to go out and get snacks or something? Just a bit ridiculous . . .
As I was already out in shopping-ville (I have to drive 25 minutes, currently, to get out there), I decided to run errands at Target . . . one-stop shopping. On my Target Credit card . . . wooops. I had to shop for a bachelorette party and I was trying to figure out a way to "wrap" the gift that wouldn't be wasteful . . . obviously wrapping paper is stupid, and gift bags/boxes cost too much and more often than not just get thrown out. I was thinking of picking up like a small purse/storage device to "wrap" my gift in, but then I decided to get a small photo album and print off photos from my computer and just "wrap" the photo album in ribbons. Simple.
I also purchased THREE dresses (a lot of special occassions coming up) but I plan to bring 1-2 of them back and return them. I just need second opinions as to if they "work" or not . . .
I also bought a CD binder to put my non-TV series DVDs in to save space. And a pack of gum. And . . . a book on how to save money. HA HA HA HA. This is funny, but I probably should have just BORROWED THE BOOK FROM A LIBRARY OR GOT IT USED. But something about it just sucked me in . . .
Then at the movies I was an idiot and bought a thing of nachos (pre-prepared in a disposable box . . . HA) and a SLUSHIE. And it was ALMOST $9.00 just for those two things . . . IDIOT!!!
Total Expenses: $18.00 (+ $120 on credit that will be reduced when return dress(es))
Friday, May 2, 2008
DAY ONE
I am taking Candice up on her challenge. My consumption has gotten ridiculous, mainly out of habit and "efficiency" and I need to do something about it--for my finances, my waistline, and the rest of the world.
Yesterday was DAY ONE. Unfortunately, I had already made purchases--and unwise ones at that--before Candice put us all up to the challenge.
First of all, I paid my rent. No harm there.
Then came time for lunch. Big mistake. I was running out of groceries at home (or at least that's what I believed) so I went to evil McDonalds for no reason other than, "Hey, it's cheap and fast." I got a chicken nugget meal, with fries and ice tea. I cannot do this anymore!!! While I do plan on occassional trips to Wendy's (my #1 guilty pleasure), my first goal for this month is to FINALLY eliminate (again, save for Wendy's) fast food from my diet--something I have said I was going to do for some time now. But then I'll not buy enough groceries or crave something bad for me and I'll find myself in that drive-thru lane . . .
Besides the obvious badness of fast food, I realize now that all the idling that must be done in the drive-thru lane is not exactly the best thing to be doing--it hurts your gas mileage and also produces more exhaust. So, no more drive-thrus . . . if we make fast food more inefficent, perhaps (some) people will just stop going . . . If I am going to have to get out of my car for "fast" food, I would much rather stop at a grocery store and pick something up.
Then there is the matter of WHAT goes into the fast food . . . even if it is as "high quality" as they say it is, that food is still having to be transported from its point of origin all across the country . . . NOT GOOD.
Hopefully I will stick by this, and keep those thoughts in mind the next time I get those hunger pains. I will remember to stock up on groceries on a regular basis, and buy local when possible.
Total Expenditures: $6.35 (plus rent of $565)
Yesterday was DAY ONE. Unfortunately, I had already made purchases--and unwise ones at that--before Candice put us all up to the challenge.
First of all, I paid my rent. No harm there.
Then came time for lunch. Big mistake. I was running out of groceries at home (or at least that's what I believed) so I went to evil McDonalds for no reason other than, "Hey, it's cheap and fast." I got a chicken nugget meal, with fries and ice tea. I cannot do this anymore!!! While I do plan on occassional trips to Wendy's (my #1 guilty pleasure), my first goal for this month is to FINALLY eliminate (again, save for Wendy's) fast food from my diet--something I have said I was going to do for some time now. But then I'll not buy enough groceries or crave something bad for me and I'll find myself in that drive-thru lane . . .
Besides the obvious badness of fast food, I realize now that all the idling that must be done in the drive-thru lane is not exactly the best thing to be doing--it hurts your gas mileage and also produces more exhaust. So, no more drive-thrus . . . if we make fast food more inefficent, perhaps (some) people will just stop going . . . If I am going to have to get out of my car for "fast" food, I would much rather stop at a grocery store and pick something up.
Then there is the matter of WHAT goes into the fast food . . . even if it is as "high quality" as they say it is, that food is still having to be transported from its point of origin all across the country . . . NOT GOOD.
Hopefully I will stick by this, and keep those thoughts in mind the next time I get those hunger pains. I will remember to stock up on groceries on a regular basis, and buy local when possible.
Total Expenditures: $6.35 (plus rent of $565)
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