I finally did my state taxes and will send the forms off tomorrow. I'll be getting $114 back. Not bad. I'm glad I didn't Turbo Tax it.

I guess I'm going to keep my Netflix subscription. I signed up for the $5 a month version -- 2 movies a month. That's about all I really have time to watch. I would get a better deal with the $1 machine in the grocery store, but I like the option of getting older movies -- and I like getting them delivered.

Other than my Netflix indulgence, I am trying hard to keep everyday spending down so I can funnel everything to my home improvement expenses. I have to be extra mindful. Today I forgot to take a lunch to work, and I was debating whether to eat out or drive home. I did neither. I ate what was available at work. Someone had brought in cookies and donuts. I had some yogurt in the fridge, and some microwave popcorn in my drawer. Yes, I know, terrible, terrible nutrition, but I didn't spend anything, not even gasoline.

I've been thinking ahead about how I can save a little on my trip. I researched whether it would cost more to drive and park, or take the shuttle to the airport. Driving & parking is a little less, so that's what I'll do. That means I will pack light, because it's such a hassle carrying bags on those airport buses. Also -- I usually buy a book at the airport -- it's been a way I treated myself in the past. Not this time. This morning I thought I might go to Goodwill to pick up a book there, but then I decided -- no, I'm not spending anything! I went to the library instead, and checked out some small paperbacks that I can carry on the plane. I am planning to buy no food in the airport. I'll make a sandwich that I'll eat in the car on the way. I'll drink water from the fountains -- if I can find them!

Another expense is boarding my dog. No way to save on that, except to cut down the time. So I asked my son if he would pick him up Monday morning (he'll be out of town until then). While my dog is at the vet, which is where I board him, he'll get his shots and his nail trim, so at least those expenses will be combined.

In other news, my cousin emailed me today to let me know that the addition on her house has not been started due to permit problems with the septic system. That made me wonder why I am purshing so hard to get my house ready to sell, when my living space at the other end isn't even started! I know she really wants me there, but it seems like the timing is off. I emailed her with my concerns, but she hasn't answered yet. I would really feel better if I didn't feel so pressured to get my house on the market this spring. It is much harder than I thought it would be, and more expensive.