Gramma Ray's Blog

My houseguest is sleeping in this morning. From the looks of the living room, he was busy after gramma went to bed. Either that or a hurricane hit Oregon, specifically my living room, that I havent heard about.

Today I plan on housework, watching the Packers beat the Rams (Sorry Boomeyers!) and maybe getting back over to Kohls to use my 30% off for some Christmas shopping.

I took out four chicken breasts last night and have them marinading in the spicy teriyaki sauce for dinner tonight. ( and a couple more meals). I plan to pull the pork out of the freezer that I cooked last week for pulled pork sandwiches. Breakfasts will be oatmeal this week. Then, on Thursday night the hub gets home and meals will change considerably.

Yesterday I spent quite a bit of my allowance. The big white pumpkin that GS picked out was $19, the one he picked out for me was $6. We spent $15 at the farm on misc games for GS and the corn maze. I spent another $40 at the grocery store. (Although that $40 can come out of the food budget). But it was such a fun day.

In comparison, today will be relaxing and inexpensive (unless I find some great deals for Christmas)

In the meantime, Go Packers!!

A little of me must have worn off on my kids. Today, DD2 called to ask if I had a Kohl's coupon because GS needed new pants. I did, 30% off! While we were shopping, DD1 called and said she was shopping for Halloween costumes for the kids....at Goodwill. She outfitted both for under $10. DD2 found 3 pair of pants for Gs at Kohls- normally 29, on sale for 19 with 30% off...so 13 per pair. I love that my girls think about frugal ways to get what they need!

This morning a group of us from work volunteered at a local community place that takes food donations, packs up care packages and distributes to seniors and needy families. Today we boxed 650 care packages. We alloted 4 hours, but got it done in under 3. We do this twice a year and it is fun and rewarding.

Last week, GS (8) asked me to take him to the pumpkin farm today. I told him I would, and yesterday, he reminded me of my promise. So last night, I called him and asked him to plan out our day. It was so sweet, when I met up with him at Kohls, he had a carefully written out list and timeline for the day. The list was carefully folded and in his pocket. Here is what it says:

List for the day
Wack up at 9:00
go to grandmos home 1:30
go to the pumrin pach 2:00
go to get stackes 3:30
cook diner 4:00
eat diner 5:00
eat popcorn and a move 8:30
go to bed 11:30

Some of his numbers and letters are backwards. It is one of the most precious lists I have ever seen. Definately keepsake material. He loves steak, so that is always his request when he spends the night. We had a fun afternoon. He picked our two pumpkins...one for him and one for me. He carved them both when we got home- and did a really cute job.

Here is GS carving his pumpkin:

Im not sure if we will make it to 11:30 tonight..but we sure have had a great day.

It is a beautiful fall evening. Not too cold with a nice breeze blowing leaves everywhere. I have a pumpkin candle burning with a window open so I can enjoy the sound of hte wind in the trees.

Today was payday and both the hub and I got paid. As planned, I put money into savings, put some on a debt and the rest will roll for the upcoming weeks when the hub doesnt get a paycheck for his time home.

DD3 heard yesterday that she will be going to Alaska mid to late November. I hope they plan it around the hubs trip back up, otherwise Im not sure what we will do. I am VERY reluctant to let her stay in Anchorage overnight and get around for her employement paperwork and physical by herself. I may fly up with her to make sure she is safe until she gets up to the slope....but I will know more when the time comes.

Our 401k plan is set up so that I can log-in and make whatever changes I want myself, including how much I contribute. I am going to review the investments and determine if they are still allocated appropriately and then look at raising my contribution. Right now I am contributing 8%- my job matches 8% (max). I plan to up my contribution when the next raise comes through. I hope to raise to at least 10%. The program also calculates targets. Right now I am on track to retire at 65 with a good income. However, I would love to get that number down to 60...so I intend to keep adjusting to accomplish this.

I have been using either ziplock freezer bags, or containers for freezing foods- but the hub would like to get one of those food saver things that makes your food airtight for the freezer. I am wondering if anyone has a preference? What do you use and how successful is it? Ive read that the bags are expensive. Any other successful ways to freeze out there?

I would love to get in a routine while the hub is gone of cooking for the week on the weekend and just pulling meals out of the freezer ready to go during the week.

My list of honey-dos is growing for the hub this time. I need to have tires rotated, oil change, decorative stip reglued to the car...maybe the wipers changed and defroster fluid refilled. It could be a while before he is home again, so I want to get all that stuff done while he is here.

One day left...and then its weekend time! Its been a gruelling week- so the weekend is welcome. Cant wait!!

I learned today that the changes at work are indeed happening. My department will be growing by at least 3-4 people and assume a few new areas of risk management. I have worked here for almost 20 years and have rolled with similar changes many times- To me, change is always exciting and an opportunity to learn. (I think it means more $$ too...)

The hubs paycheck is $100 more than budgeted this week. The extra money went straight to debt. $1800 went to various savings accounts (escrow type accounts- birthday, Christmas, vacation, insurance, taxes, big vacation, etc. No bills were due this week, so the remainder will roll to next week when both house payments are due and then roll to the weeks that the hub doesnt get a paycheck in November. This will be his last 3 week stint home until next spring. He will only be home 1-2 weeks every 4-5. He also said that DD3 should get her call today about working up there. She is pretty excited about it...I am nervous- it is so far from home and isolated up there...the hub will be in the area, but they wont really see much of each other.

Even though the hub is home Oct 25- Nov 14...there are 5 Fridays in Nov. With the anticipated OT and the way my paydays fall, I will be able to put $3500 towards debt! This is huge for us for one month! I love that we are chipping away at those bills.

I am on a quick break and work and decided to pop in at SA to unwind. My lunch break was spent attending a 90 minute compliance webinar on an upcoming, very confusing, govt rule that I need to summarize for everyone. Sound fun? Not so much. At least my lunch was paid for.

Today is also bosses day. (Why are days like this created?? Must be a Hallmark thing...) I received a beautiful bouquet from the girl- (S) I supervise. (Our team also got a bouquet for our/my boss). I love fresh flowers- and am sure greatful to (S) for being so thoughtful!

I dont have much else going on. I will make some quinoa and green beans tonight (have on hand) to go with the ribs..so today will be a no spend day for me.

I also need to remember to take the chicken breasts out of the freezer and start them marinading tonight. Those will go into the crockpot tomorrow. I found a "spicy" teriyaki sauce on sale that I am eager to try. I think I will make enough quinoa tonight to have some with the chicken tomorrow night.

Well, time to get into a meeting..

Ok, my free car wash was in the form of an all afternoon rainstorm. But this is one way of seeing the glass half full right? I have a brand new umbrella hanging in my closet that I didnt use when we went to Alaska, so out it will come tomorrow. I also turned the sprinkler system off, hopefully for the year. It wont come back on until next Spring.

Dinner tonight was leftover pork ribs. I wasnt really hungry, so all I had was that with bbq sauce and a big glass of ice water. I will have one more meal and then the rest will get shredded and froze for sandwiches.

I had my 3rd quarter review today and it went great. I am very pleased with how well the job is going- Our dept assistant was transferred and she was helping me about 8 hours a week..all that work is back on my plate until she is replaced, which means I will be working some overtime- I am exempt, which means no pay for OT, but thats ok. My job was always so understanding when I took care of my parents...and I dont get charged when I need to leave early or take an extended lunch...so its all good. Hopefully the assistant will be replaced quickly.

On the other hand, the hub mentioned that he is starting to get OT and that IS paid. From now until next April- he will be working lots of OT. Hourly, I make about $10 more an hour than he...but annually, he makes more because he works so much OT.

This coming weekend is going to be busy. On Saturday I volunteered for a food repack for a local community organization. I will work there for 4 hours..then, if the weather is nice, we are going to a local farm/pumpkin patch with the kids/grandkids. If the weather isnt nice I will probably have one or more grandbabies here.

Sunday- no plans. I hope to keep it that way. Football, housework catch-up, reading..all sound good to me.

I am re-reading one of my favorite books on my kindle. The Education of Little Tree. Such a good story. Something I dont think Ive ever disclosed...I am 1/4 Cherokee..so I feel a connection with the characters. I am thinking about getting a copy for each of my kids for Christmas- most likely will!! I read this book about 10 years ago and just loved it. I think it would be a good keepsake type gift for the kids to share with their kids- because it is one of moms favorites and because they also share this heritage.

I purchased some boneless pork ribs this weekend that were on sale for $1.99. This morning I put them in the crockpot with some seasonings and onion. When I got home, the meat was done..so tender! DD3 and I had it for dinner and it was oh, so , good!

I have PLENTY for lunch and dinner tomorrow and then I will shred the rest for pulled pork sandwiches on Tuesday night.

On Wed I will cook the chicken in the crockpot for the next two nights.

My crockpot really does make life easier. And I definately use it more this time of year.

My friend enjoyed her birthday trip today. Brunch was yummy ...the movie was ok. (Pitch Perfect)..I think it would appeal to a younger crowd..but it had its moments. I dont go to the movie very often- mostly because Im picky when it comes to the movies I go see. This wouldnt have been one I would have chose myself, but it was the birthday girls choice.
All in all, a fun day.

The weekend is going to be less expensive than I had budgeted - by about $50. Last night was the 60th birthday for a co-worker. Today another friend (P) and I are taking (D) out for her birthday. She wants to go to brunch and a movie..which will be fun and relaxing. We had talked about going wine tasting, but (D) came up with plan B-which actually sounds more fun today- especially since I have had crazy insomnia the last two nights. (Where did THAT come from?? and PLEASE GO AWAY).. A few sips of wine and Id probably be sound asleep...then again, a dark theater might do it too. The tab will be split between (P)and I...and we also split the cost of a massage. I dont usually spend this much on friend gifts, except with these two- between the three of us our birthdays are June, August and October and we usually do something nice for each other and make a day of it.

Boneless pork ribs were on sale this week for $1.99. I will be putting those into the crockpot before we leave today so that dinner will be ready when I get home. I bought enough to make 2-3 meals plus freeze some. DD3 might come over for dinner, so it may just make enough for the meals. I also want to make some oatmeal for the week tonight.

Dinners will be ribs two nights and chicken fixed a couple different ways. (Teriyaki one night, lemon rosemary another)..and then pasta one night. Lunch will be leftovers or PBJ.

I filled the gas tank yesterday. OMG- it was $4.09 a gallon- but I got 10 cents off from my loyalty card..but still. ugh. Thankfully I only fill up every other week or so.

A big box store opened next door to my job a few months ago. There is just a small side street that separates our parking lots...and we can definately feel the added traffic when leaving work each night- It is not my favorite place to shop, but it IS very convenient now. I needed coffee creamer for the weekend and decided to stop in there on my way home. Since I didnt have plans tonight I decided to just walk around and pick up things that I have been meaning to get but always seem to forget. (Not a budget friendly idea...but I did get some check marks)

One item was a bluetooth for my cell phone. I have never had one - and it is a want/need. I picked one up for $25.

I (needed?) hair color ($7), toothpaste, shampoo and conditioner, creamer, butter, bread. The haircolor is much cheaper doing it myself, and Im not ready to go el natural yet, so I consider it a need...

I wanted a couple of new nail polish colors, scissors to trim my bangs (bought the less expensive ones for $8.98)- again doing it myself is much less expensive, and a plastic cover to use in the microwave for splatters ($1.98)...my California friend had one that we used quite a bit while there and I really saw the benefit of it for under $2.

I managed to spend $97...and TOTALLY forgot to pick up cat food, which I am out of after tonight. So, tomorrow I will make a quick stop to pick cat food up.

Part of the $$ will come out of the grocery budget and the rest is allowance $$. I still have plenty of money in the household/entertainment account since the hub hasnt been here to help spend any of it and I have tried to stay fairly frugal. Dinner was PB&J on toast tonight.

When I mentioned the bluetooth to the hub, he said he might get one when he comes home to use this winter. I think it will be handier to use than bracing my cell between my shoulder and chin to support the phone while I multitask.. (perhaps this adds to the occaisional stiff neck??)

It is nice to be home and not have to get up early in the morning. I plan to sleep in...we will see if that actually happens. Usually around normal wake up time coffee starts sounding really good.

Tonight Zillow shows the value of both homes have inched up a little. The country house is still in the black (barely)...my city house is still in the red, by about $40k. Ive lived here almost two and a half years...absolutely love this house..but the loss in value still smarts. OH well, since I dont plan to sell for a few more years I can hope the value will keep creeping up.

It has been another busy day at work. They are going to be rearranging responsibilities again soon, and it sounds like I will be supervising at least two more areas (and people). The good news in that is that I already do much of the work for those areas, so adding two people to the team will help reduce my work load some...the bad news is adding two more people to the team means more supervisory work. Of course, it primarily depends on the individuals.

My current job involves risk and compliance, when the changes are done it will also include fraud and loss prevention. And I actually enjoy the latter two the most, so the change overall will be welcome.

Today was a payday for the hub. I have a master spreadsheet for the budget and so every paycheck is planned. (I currently have everything planned through March 2013). When payday arrives I know almost down to the penny what needs to go where. I shudder when I think about the days I didnt have a budget and just paid what was squeeking the most wondering why we barely made it from one payday to the next.(or sometimes didnt!)

My excel spreadsheet has a budget tab, an 'escrow' type account tab (for things like car insurance, clothes, medical, etc.), a christmas tab, birthday tab, vacation tab, etc. I probably am a little anal about how much I track...but it helps keep goals in line.

I wish I could say all that tracking has gotten us debt free...but alas we are not. A good portion of the debt we have came from trying to help my son while his business was failing...and from the hubs first stint up in Alaska when we had to ship tools, get all the gear, etc..and then he was laid off. Oh, and there are some home repairs in the debt too.

But..the debt is FINALLY heading downhill. I have paid off almost $10k in the last 12 months...AND we have built an emergency fund too. So we ARE heading in the right direction.

Not sure about everyone else...but even with the cloudy weather, I am SO ready for the weekend.

The hubs paycheck is $38 more than expected tomorrow. This will go towards debt repayment. The electric bill was $130 less than budgeted, so that will go into the electricity escrow account. During the winter that bill can get pretty high for the other house, so I keep an escrow type account going all year and stash whatever is left of the budgeted amount to cover it during winter. (I budget $400 per month year round- this month it was $270. The bill combines both houses into one bill- but breaks down how much it is for each house.

DD2 wanted to go to lunch today, so we met at a restaurant that shares a parking lot with a Harry and Davids retail store. After lunch, I had some time, so I went into H&D. I always enjoy their seasonal decor and deals. The only thing that jumped out at me were two bottles of sparkling white wines. Different labels..both beautiful and on sale. When I use my credit card from the credit union, several merchants will give me a discount. (Its a deal the CU worked out with our 'local' vendors) H&D 's discount is10%...so I saved $2.50...and the cost was $22.50 PLUS they will do a courtesy wrap and make the bottles look even more special...for FREE. So for #11.25 each, I have two ready to go gifts for birthdays or special occaisions. (Full price would have been $35 for both) I will definately keep this in mind for those 'extra' Christmas gifts I need. Plus, wine doesnt go bad and anything I dont use for Christmas can be saved for birthday gifts next year.

DD2s birthday was in September and her gift was two tickets to a comedy show that is tonight. I cant wait to hear how it was.

So happy tomorrow is Friday. I am looking forward to the weekend!

I was looking at the budget and realized, unfortunately, that I ommitted the minus sign in front of an entry..ugh. It was a 374 entry...so I was off by 748...fortunately, I had budgeted $1000 extra to savings...so I adjusted the 'extra' and fixed the error. It is so easy to forget a little minus sign...but made such a big difference when I fixed it.

I had leftover enchilada pie from yesterday's potluck for dinner tonight. The layers all melded together and it tasted even better tonight. I love leftovers, it is like free food.

This weekend I have two friend birthdays. One was planned, the other was not. A co-worker, who I adore but dont usually spend time with outside of work is turning 60. His wife is throwing a party Saturday night and he asked if I would come. He is one of the sweetest people I know- so I wouldnt miss this for anything. They are serving dinner and drinks and the wife suggested just a funny card for him. But I want to put a 'care package' together for my 'old' friend. Any suggestions? I have a feeling most of the package will be out of the pharmacy section...but I need more ideas. Most of the other people that will be there are old co-workers who no longer work with us anymore. Unfortunately, several of them left on not such good terms, so it is always a little awkward when I attend social events with this group..thankfully it is not often. It would be easier if the hub was going, but he is in Alaska. So I asked my friend (next paragraph friend) to go as my date. She and the birthday guy are old friends- but havent seen each other in years, so it should be fun.

The other birthday (Sunday)is my dear friend who I mention on here quite a bit because she and her husband go to the vacation rental home with us when we go. There are three of us girlfriends who celebrate each others birthday together as a tradition. My birthday-friend mentioned that a massage sounded good- so the other friend and I will split the cost of a gift certificate between us...and then we are going wine tasting. (Free unless we buy any bottles because of our memberships) We will probably even go to brunch...so Sunday will be a spendy day. Between Sat night and Sunday I anticipate spending $150. This comes out of my savings account that I stash extra allowance into when there is any..thankfully, I have enough to cover both- but the allowance piggy will be fairly dry when Im done.

Tomorrow is Thursday, which means I get a peek at what the hubs pending paycheck will be on Friday. I always budget conservative, so it is almost always fun to update the budget with the actual total. His paychecks are usually within $100 of normal until next month...then he starts working overtime. This year, they are talking with him about working more weeks and taking less time off. I am sad that he wont be home as much, but for the long term, big picture- this helps us get to our goals quicker. He said not to buy his Nov/Dec airline ticket today...so it begins.

The potluck dish I made was a big hit. I just improvised a dish...and called it enchilada pie. Layers of white corn tortillas cut into bite sized pieces, shredded chicken, cheese, salsa verde, refi and black beans, olives,corn and green chilis. Three of the layers were the tortillas and the other layers were just random. I hope the kids at the shelter enjoyed it as much as the people I work with did.

I need a haircut. For the past couple of years I have been going to a friends salon, but she shut down and went to work at a bank to get a more steady income and benefits. My last haircut was in May before I went to Boston/NY. I have trimmed the bangs, but have just worn my hair up in a clip since. I just hate going to a new stylist..I predict I will just make an appt at JC Penney...but until then, I will trim my bangs again and try curling the hair or keep putting it up. The longer it gets the heavier the hair is on the clip- which doesnt help the headaches. However, even though I didnt stop for the cost, I was paying for color and cut every 8 weeks...so I figure I have skipped 2-3 cut/color appts...if I take off two boxes of do-it-myself color, it is a savings of about $150 the past 5 months.

I have noticed a few commercials for a new show- Extreme Cheepskates. It looks interesting- albeit extreme, but I have set the DVR to record. It will be interesting to see just how extreme folks can go.

Hmmm...makes me think about what extremes Ive gone to. At times, I did extreme things simply because I didnt have much choice...like the time I had one working light bulb and no money, so I just moved the light bulb from room to room at night as I needed to. Or the time when I was first married and we had no money and we ate hot dogs for a week...that was not good on the tummy.

Other extreme things I have done have been from choice rather than necessity...one year a I went a full year without a haircut so that I could give the money I saved to a single mom. Or all the things I did the two years I stayed home and helped my parents....My goal for much of that time was to feed my family (and sometimes my parents too) on $5 per meal. Not exactly extreme, but definately helped stretch the dollars.

The hub and I have come a long ways in our earning ability...and I have often strayed from the frugal choices I was making when things were tighter. However, I have that experience to pull from and am getting re-motivated to see how far I can stretch our dollars. This site is an excellent source for motivation.

Not sure whether Extreme Cheapskates will motivate, humor or entertain...but its worth a visit I suppose.

I have spent a good part of the evening making up enough enchilada pie for about 30 people. I improvised on the recipe and sure hope it tastes ok!

I used white corn tortillas, refi beans, chili verde sauce, cheese, black beans, corn, black olives, green chilis, and shredded chicken...all in various layers.

The shelter food is in two disposable tin containers and the potluck on is in the crockpot...I cut back a little on the liquid for the crockpot, but it still might turn into enchilada soup...lol.

Im also taking salad, cookies, salsa and sour creme for the shelter.

Today, my job was closed, but the day wasnt a holiday- it was an all-staff training day. For not 'working' I sure am pooped tonight. Staying focused all day wears me out! But it was a great day.

I had to stop by the store on the way home because I wasnt sure I had bought enough supplies for all the meal prep. I have to rant a little here. There was a family dad, mom, another woman about moms age and two kids around 2 and 4. Mom and the other woman were pushing the carts. The carts are the ones with the car on the front that the kids can ride in. Mom was running from the other woman and sliding around the end of the aisles. (Really girls??) Very obnoxious and out of line IMO...then, the other woman stopped mid aisle and hollered over the aisle that the little one had just gotten sick all over the car. For some reason they thought this was funny. The womand took the little one and left the cart mid aisle and walked away...perhaps to the bathroom? I saw a store worker in produce and let him know what happened so he could clean up and... maybe toss these folks out of the store?? ARGH. Not the way I needed to end the day...

Sorry, just a cranky old lady ranting.

Anyway- I am glad I stopped because I wouldnt have had enough cheese..or green chilis.

Im done and now can relax for a bit before bedtime. Sure hope I dont end up with soup in that crockpot tomorrow!

This morning, I had a friend over for brunch. I had super easy food - mini crumb cakes, fruit, bagels, maple bacon, coffee and pumpkin pecan creamer and mimosa's. It was really nice. I set the table with my black dishes- I had some orange napkins from last year, put a few fall decorations on the table..and it looked really warm and inviting. I spent about $20 on the food and I ended up with leftovers that should last for several days.

DD3 stopped by early afternoon and started cleaning house.(not that it was very dirty, but there were traces of the grandbabies from a previous visit)..I asked what was up and she said dad (the hub) had asked her to do it...ok- that was really appreciated!!

So, by mid afternoon I had enjoyed a wonderful morning AND my house was clean for the rest of the day. Unfortunately, Greenbay lost...the only hiccup in an otherwise perfect day!

I decided to do an enchilada bake for the potluck and shelter meals...and I will make everything up tomorrow night. Tonight I am just relaxing.

Tomorrow is a training day at work and lunch is provided. I will grab a bagel on the way out for breakfast along with some coffee/creamer. Dinner tomorrow night will be a sample of the enchilada bake.

Tomorrow should be a no spend day.

I have really enjoyed the day. LIfe is good!

DD2, our little foster baby and I spent a great day together. We started in the little historic town enjoying bagels and coffee. The bagels are so fresh and the coffee, oh so yummy. I spent $7.

Then, we walked around to the little shops. DD2 found a puzzle made out of wooden cards that GS would love for Christmas. They were 50% off, so, $12.50. She also pointed out a cute pair of earings for DD1 $8. Then, we went to Ross where I found a cute little Halloweed decoration for my desk at work $3.99. A final stop at the craft store and I picked up 5 silk yellow and red sunflowers and a decoration for the front porch $16. So total spending so far...$46. I came home and took a nap and DD2 called again to go to dinner. I spent $42 on us, and we picked out a sweet looking elderly couple and asked the waitress to let us pay their check without telling them. They must have shared a meal because their tab was only $21. We both left feeling happy for the random act of kindness. Spending today - $109.

Tomorrow morning a friend is coming over for mimosas and bagels. The rest of the day will be fixing the food for the potluck and homeless teen shelter that I am responsible for on Tuesday.

I plan to spend the remainder of my time tomorrow watching some football and putzing around the house doing laundry, etc.

The potluck that was scheduled at work tomorrow, was moved to Tuesday. (about 15 people) (Monday is a training day and the whole company goes offsite for Columbus day)...

It is also my month to prepare a meal on Tuesday for our homeless teen shelter. (about 15 people)

So I need to prepare a full meal for the shelter and I volunteered a main dish for the potluck lunch at work..

I figure I can either cook the meals on Sunday ..or Monday night.

I need a couple of crowd pleasing dishes that are easy and relatively inexpensive. My first go round with websites included chili, soup...

Maybe an enchilada type dish...hmmm. Any ideas?

As planned, I am cooking chicken for the next few nights meals. The recipe is pretty simple..cut boneless breasts into thirds and place in baking dish. (I spray non-stick spray first) Mix lemon or lime juice with a couple of tablespoons of garlic, add a teaspoon of Montreal Steak seasoning and add rosemary and thyme. Spoon over the chicken, drizzle with a little olive oil and pop in a 400 degree oven for about 20 minutes.

I serve with quinoa, roasted potatos or rice and spoon a little of the sauce for flavor...serve with a vegi and thats it! It makes terrific leftovers too!
Cheap and easy!

Tomorrow is my payday. I get paid every other Friday. The hub is paid each week for the week prior. He works three weeks and is off three weeks. So we get a partial paycheck, two weeks of full paychecks, a partial paycheck and two weeks with no paycheck. This could make budgeting tough, but I build our budget for 5-6 months into the future so I know which months we will need to carry over because of no paychecks and which months we can save more or pay more towards debt.

Our budget through next April looks great because starting in Nov, he starts working 4 on 2 off...which adds extra paychecks and we cut back on home expenses because he isnt home as long or as often. I miss him during the winter..but we are able to pay more or save more because of it.

September is the final month that finances are a little tight until next May. The extra will either go towards debt or savings...well, and a little towards the vacation account too.

October is an unusual month because the hub is gone the 3rd thru the 25..which is most of the month. Each month I budget for meals/food, entertainment, gas for the cars..and since the hub wont be here, I anticipate a large portion of these line items to be left at the end of the month. I plan to put that extra towards the vacation budget.

Smells like dinner is done..

The hub's plane left a few minutes ago. Back to Alaska he goes. We still havent heard exactly when DD3 will be heading up. Most likely the end of October or by mid November.

I stopped on the way back from the airport and bought lunch- $8. I had planned to make a sandwich when I got back, but the hub needed to stop by his credit union on the way to the airport to get cash-and they took 10 minutes to wait on him because it was busy. Why does he keep this money at a competetor is a long story...but each time he is home I chip away at his resolve to keep it there. It would be so much easier to have both accounts at the same place. Any way, making lunch was not to be...so I stopped and grabbed a burrito on the way back, quick and easy.. and it got me back to work on time.

Since the hub is not a shopper and doesnt really get excited about Christmas, I plan to use the next three weeks to get as much shopping done as possible. I wish I had more ideas about what everyone wants..but even when I dont, I can usually wing it pretty good. I have about 25 people to shop for in all (Hub, 4 kids, 3 sig others, 7 grandkids, friends, and family). Time to start the list and check it twice.

I stuck to the food plan today. I had oatmeal with brown sugar for breakfast, a sandwich for lunch and a protein bar for snack. Tonight was the hubs choice since he goes back to Alaska tomorrow..and he chose pizza- which is less expensive than going out. We are having the pizza and some spuds delivered- cost $31 plus tip. I know we will have leftovers, which will be dinner tomorrow night too.

I will take out chicken tomorrow night for the next few night's dinners. I will cook it all on Thurs night...so the rest of the week's meals should be easy. (and no spend)

I am hoping the girls will want to take the kids to a local pumpkin patch/farm this Saturday. I always love going there in the Fall and watching the kids in the corn maze, petting zoo, picking out pumpkins, face painting, etc. I so love Fall. On Sunday I am planning to pull out all my fall decorations and decorate while watching football.

I joined the football pool at work this year...it is no cost and only pays off in bragging rights. The weekly loser gets the "golden plunger" as a trophy that must be kept on their desk all week. So far I have stayed in the 23-25 out of 30 spot. I jumped up a little this past week..and am at 21. It is free fun! Hopefully I wont get the plunger.

We are having two potlucks at work this month. One is Friday for a girl on our team that got a promotion and the other is on Halloween. I am not sure what to make for them yet. I may have to spend this week for the potluck on Friday since I wasnt planning on one...but we'll see.

The Halloween one is for the whole building, so that will have lots of fun variety and I want to make something fun...hmmmm..

Well, time to enjoy hubby time since its his last night home.

Also- today is about day 5 that I have made it with no cough, no cold, no infected digits, no headache...I dont want to tempt fate, but it is SO NICE to feel normal..and a 5 day stretch is unusual lately, but oh so welcome!!! Go health!

I have my supplies, food and list ready for the work week and a food plan. Coffee is free at my job...I just bring creamer. (3.25 f0r the week). I made oatmeal with brown sugar and a little butter for the next four days (about .30 per day)- I have lunch meat, lettuce, bread and fruit for lunch $1.75 per day) and a protien bar for snack...$.50 per bar)

Tomorrow night is the hubs last night home and he wants to go out. Then, starting Wed, I will be back to eating frugally for dinner for the next three weeks. Lots of chicken planned.

I bought three books from Kohls... Twas the Night Before Christmas. Each was $5 with a portion supporting childrens hospitals. I will make a big goodie bag for each of the kids with a blanket, new jammies, hot cocoa, etc. for Christmas Eve.

I am not sure what else is on the gift lists yet. The money is saved, but I need to get ideas from the kids...

I am glad meals are planned for the week. It sure makes sticking to the budget easier!

We made it home from the girls trip last night safely, albeit a little late. I guess many flights that had to go through Las Vegas were delayed some yesterday because of Air Force One. Our plane home made a stop earlier in the day in LV, so the delay affected our arrival time.

My workday today was not usual. It was a monthly visit to an outlying branch (a couple hours away= each way)...so I didnt go into the office. Lunch was provided since we were on the road. We got back into town at about 3pm, and I got off early for the day.

Tonight, the hub wants BLTT (Bacon, Lettuce, Tomato and turkey) sandwiches..which sound good to me. He ran to the store to pick up bread, but we have everything else that we need. I am so lucky that when he is home, he likes to cook the meals. I just get to relax tonight.

Tomorrow night he wants to go out to dinner...and then he leaves Wednesday at about noon.

I am always sad to see him leave for three weeks..but also enjoy making my own routine each day. And he is always excited about getting back to work.

Tomorrow, I will use my lunch hour to add up the receipts from the girls trip and get a final tally on how close I stayed to budget.

Our next trip is to Sunriver in November> Can't wait!

It is our last night on the girls trip. Today we went to one of the fancy huge malls here. Wow, talk about sensory overload. I spent $4.95 on a little gift for a friend whose birthday is later this month..but otherwise, just looked. I also did some people-watching. Wow. Several stores already had their Christmas decor up.

I have to chuckle...and I really dont mean to offend anyone, but I took the girls for a pedicure today. It was way less than we are charged at home because of the competetion for clients, My friend and daughters sat together on one side of the salon, I sat opposite of them and got to watch their faces as they were pampered. It was such fun....but the young lady next to me was quite entertaining. SHe was getting a mani, pedi in one of the massage chairs. It must have been set on high, because ...well, the silicone was working overtime to keep up with her...oh my. sorry, very off topic...but it was quite funny,

Anyways. We came back to my friends and had leftovers and sat in her jaccuzi. We have had an amazing time here. It is tradition for us to go to the Cheesecake Factory on the girls trip, so we will be having lunch at one tomorrow before we hit the airport. We get home tomorrow night at 7:30.

Then, back to work Monday and the hub leaves for AK on Wed.

A great girls trip this year. I went a little over budget, but will make that up out of my Oct allowance. Well worth it.

The girls and I are in So Ca on our girls trip. We are really having a nice time. The rental car that we got is much nicer than I expected..a sporty black car that is taking us everywhere we wanted to go.

Yesterday, my friend had to work. So the girls and I were on our own. DD1 wanted to go back to the house where my parents lived when she was little. This is the same house that I lived in from 11 through high school. We got to the house and she was so shocked at how small it had gotten over the years. In 1983, DD1 was just a year old and my dad had laid some cement to extend the parking area. He had DD1 put her foot and handprints in it and dated it and put her name. She was in awe when she saw it. There was my dads writing and her tiny prints. I asked the owners if they would be ok with us getting pictures and they said sure. I will post a pic when I get home.

Then we went to the park where we both played as kids. Of course they have updated the equipment since then so it looked different, but it was still pretty neat.

Finally, I did something I havent ever done. I drove past the intersection where my brother died. It was almost overwhelming. (Still is as I type this) It has been 24 years, but was very raw yesterday. He was on his new motorcycle (had it 3 months) and came out from under the underpass and hit the car ahead of him. It was 6 at night and I suspect the sun was at the perfect angle so that he couldnt see clearly...of course, that is what my mind was able to wrap around ..Although it was sad, I am glad we did this.

Then we headed to the Pacific Coast Highway and had lunch at a little Irish place called O'Malleys. Lunch was wonderful. They had a wood fire in the fireplace and DD1, DD3 and I just enjoyed each other. Lunch was $28.

I have to say, it was surreal to drive all the freeways that I drove as a teen...the buildings have changed (aged or been remodled), but it was still "home" to me.

Then we headed back to my friends house.

This morning we girls are going for pedicures (they are really inexpensive here) and then I am not sure what we are doing.

So far, this years girls trip has been one of my favorites.

DD1, DD3 and I are flying down to So Cali for our girls trip tomorrow. Our airport is tiny and only serves a few airlines. One of those is a no frills type (although arent they all becoming no frills lately).

The basic fare is relatively inexpensive..and then there are options- want to choose your seat? Sit by a window or on an aisle? Check or carry on a bag? (and it needs to be under 40lbs if you do or you pay even more) Get 'preferred' boarding? Have a soda?...everything is extra.

But, the base fare was good. So..the girls and I will pack really lite and take one larger suitcase that will be under 40lbs. (We can take one personal item (bag) if it fits easily under the seat)..so we are each taking a small bag too.

When I went to check in online, we did end up with seats in the same row. Otherwise, it would have cost to rearrange.

So all in all, we are pulling this inexpensive leg of our journey off without issue so far. (whew) I booked the flight as a package with a rental car so that we can get around. The only thing I dont like about it is the whole making sure the tank is topped off when you return the car...but I am sure we will figure it out.

It will be interesting when we get to LA...we land at about 5pm...and will get to experience rush hour traffic to my friends home about 45 miles away. Here in Oregon, that would be about a 35-40 min drive...she said to plan for an hour and a half..or more.

Friday, Sat and most of Sunday will be relaxing and visiting and just having girl time.

The hub took advantage of his time this weekend to head over to the coast with his dad to go quadding. He cashed in cans, cashed in his coin jar, sold a little more wood, and traded in some scrap metal to pay for his trip.

Well...time to get packin....funs awaitin!

We had such a great time at the coast. My grandson had never been 'crabbing' before and that single activity kept him entertained most of the weekend. He has a new hobby! I have my dads crab pots- but they were not the right kind for where we were at. So the hub and GS bought one along with a fishing license for the hub and some chicken legs for bait. They hub paid for this out of his wood money. Although the crabs were all too small to keep, it was a great source of fun and bonding for both of them.

The hub was very kind this weekend about expenses and actually paid for pretty much everything but the hotel and one meal out of his wood business account. Our hotel was $204- such a beautiful room and view. For calling to reserve a room last minute, I lucked out. The girl I spoke to was very nice and assured me I would like the room. We were on the end with a nice long balcony...GS got to swim in the heated pool, play on the beach, run with the waves, made some new friends while crabbing and relax in a big comfy bed while resting a little in the afternoon. HE LOVED IT.

The weather was gorgeous and we had a great time with our friends. We saw pelicans dive bombing into the bay to catch fish and several seals. The meal out was lunch yesterday $28. Oh, we also stopped at the store to pick up corn on the cob, bread, and some snacks which came to $22. Breakfast was provided this morning at the hotel..it was one of the nicer free breakfasts Ive seen and the food was pretty good! GS, who normally doesnt eat much cleaned his plate and went back for seconds. He slept most of the way home.

This week is a short work week for me. I work Mon- Wed and then leave for our girls trip on Thursday. I also start school again this week and am going to take a stab at algebra II...which is my worst subject.
I didnt realize I would miss a class the first week of school for the girls trip. Hopefully I can make up what I miss. I didnt opt for an online class this time since I know I will need to be taught how this Algebra stuff works. (Ive steered clear of math since high school, which is a VERY long time ago...lol)

I cant believe how fast this weekend went..and am so glad the work week is a short one. After this, I dont have time off until Veterans weekend when we go to the mountain resort rental with our friends.

DD2 asked if we could take GS (8) for the weekend since his little sister got to go camping with her grandparents. Blended families are so tough on the kids...poor GS didnt understand why he got left behind...so, the hub and GS are at the movie tonight seeing Iceage and tomorrow we are going to get up early and go to the coast. I was able to get a hotel for tomorrow night in one of the rooms facing the ocean. ($200). We have $600 in the vacation fund, which will more than cover the tab for the weekend. (We should only spend about $250 total if the hub pays for the gas with the wood $$) Our good friends are staying at the RV park right next to the hotel- so we will fix our meals with them while we are there, so meals shouldnt be too much. I will also take my dads crab pots...which I am sure will keep GS entertained for most of the day. Aside from the hotel, the gasoline will be our biggest expense...and I am going to ask the hub if he wont pay for that out of his wood $$.

I LOVE going to the ocean and havent been (except for briefly in Alaska) in MONTHS..so this will be a very fun weekend.

Meals today were not healthy. I had a free doughnut at work (um, a chocolate bar and coffee was so tasty..but so not worth the guilt later)..and at lunch I needed gas ($65)- which is a 30 min process on Fridays...so I just got two bean burritos from Taco Bell ($1.98)after I filled up on my way back to work.

Tonight I had a PBJ on toast here at home.

I plan on doing lots of beach walking this weekend- and will take lots of fruits for snacks. Then, next week get right back on track with my healthier choices.

My thumb looks and feels so much better now that the glass shard is out.

Looking so forward to tomorrow. After a long week, it will be fun to spend time with the hub, GS and our friends at the beach. Life is good!

This week has been our planning session at work. It is always fun and exciting to explore the possibilities and determine goals for the next year. We met at our offsite facility and breakfast and lunch were provided each day...so meal planning has been easy this week!

My love of planning flows into my personal life too. I enjoy creating spreadsheets and checklists. Each year I get a little better at it and also get more disciplined at sticking to the plan.

I remember the early days of budgeting when money was so tight there wasnt enough to fully go around for expenses, let alone have extra to allocate for wants. All too often, money for bills would 'accidentally' be spent on wants, because it was too depressing to stick to a rigid budget. But once I figured out the formula for writing a do-able budget,AND we brought the out-going to less than the in-coming, I have done a better job of sticking to it.

One thing I learned is to allow for some wiggle room on the bills that vary month to month and to try to budget some guilt free spending money too.

I cant remember if I blogged about getting a sliver of glass in my thumb a few weeks ago. I thought I got it all out and then handled raw chicken to prepare for dinner. The next morning I woke to a very red thumb with a red line starting up my arm...uh oh. I started antibiotics for my cough that day and the thumb got better..but continued to be very sore. Well, last night the darn splinter of glass FINALLY worked to the surface and I got it out. OMG is that a relief.

My sweet little 5 year old granddaughter was diagnosed with juvenile arthritis 3 years ago. At that time she got a steroid injection in her knee and thankfully, the arthritis went away. We thought she was home free when it didnt return. Sadly, it came back. A few weeks ago her knee swelled and got warm..and it hurt in the mornings and off and on during the day..a tell tale sign that it was back. Today she received another treatment (they have to put her under for the injection). This makes a gramma's heart ache:



The arthritis had also spread to her ankle and is affecting her enamel on her teeth.. It is discouraging that this came back as the recurrence ups her chances of it being a life long problem. Good news is tonight she is pain free again and doing well. I sure wish I could take this from her and her mom and dad. It is so hard to see your kids and grandkids hurting both physically and emotionally.


Last night, the hub suggested taking his dad and aunt to dinner. We went to olive garden and the bill came to $90. The hub payed out of his wood money. Tonight, he is delivering six more cords of wood..so he will replish what he spent. He is using his wood money to fix up an old truck he bought (his new hobby).

The hubs check hit pending today. It is $106 more than normal...so that will go towards his Visa bill.

We are done with the planning session at work, so I go back to preparing and planning my own breakfast and lunch. It was fun while it lasted.

So glad Friday is tomorrow and another weekend is upon us. No big plans this weekend.

I donated blood today for the first time. I assumed wrongly that because I am on a few differnt medications that I couldnt donate. I am so glad that assumption is behind me!

Today was a no spend day. Our meals are planned for most of the week. Actually, this week is our planning week at work- so breakfast and lunch will be provided Tue-Thur and dinner is provided tomorrow night. Makes for a cheap week when so many meals are provided!

I will need to get gas this week...which will run around $65- this line item still has over $100, so its covered when I fill up.

I am using an online tracker for my meals and I am pleased with the results so far. I dont seem to have a problem staying at or under 1200 calories each day...but I do have a problem getting enough protein. I am trying to follow the 40-30-30 plan which is carbs, protein and fats. I picked up some Zone bars at Costco this past weekend. They were on sale, $14 for 24. I plan to only use them when I am in a bind (nothing on hand and hungry) or when I am really craving chocolate.

I went over the budget with the hub tonight. I keep my budget on a spreadsheet and keep it updated several times each week -and the budget is roughly calculated through next March...roughly because the hubs paychecks fluxuate so much. I estimate low on income and high on the bills that vary (electricity, etc.) He would like to pay more on the country house each month...but it makes so much more sense to eliminate the credit card debt first. I think he understood and seemed happy with how the budget looks.