My SS check was deposited today and a new budget cycle has begun. I've already spent $736. $321 to my mortgage, $356 for assessment fees, $23 for gas, and $36 at the grocery (grapes, spaghetti sauce, apple, muffins, body wash, tuna, cat food, bread, spinach).

It turns out my variables spending last month was 102%, despite all my maneuvering. I found a $5 copay at the doctor I hadn't counted. Still, it was a good lesson in how you can avoid spending if you just try. I am now at 7% on a new month.

Here is the recap for October (which is over, in my budget world!)

Gifts/Charity: $218 (A birthday, and pre-Christmas)
Insurance: $179 (annual condo insurance)
Utilities: $163
Medical/Health: $146 (podiatrist, gym, doctor, scrips, physical therapy, monthly premium)
Vacation/Travel: $127 (the tail end of my FL trip)
Clothing: $90 (workout pants)
Eating Out: $77
Groceries: $69
Gas: $67
Phone: $52
Vet/Pet Supplies: $21
Laundry: $14
Household Supplies: $13
Fares/Parking: $13
Furnishings/Equipment/Decor: $7
Personal: $1

Grand Total: $1257

Wow, huh? This month did not have a mortgage payment or assessment fees because I paid the mortgage early, and the assessment falls so close to pay day, it can fall on either side. So it was a crazy low month; just what I needed.

It's suddenly very cold and rainy, and I wish I did not have to go out again, but I have to go to physical therapy.

I'm putting the finishing touches on the carrot soup, and also making spaghetti sauce for dinner. It's really smelling good in here!