My grandson's birthday party was great. It was held at IHOP, his favorite restaurant. I couldn't believe it -- they were so crowded, and yet they handled our party of 12 quickly and efficiently -- both in seating us and serving us. I contributed $20 to the bill and ordered an entree that fed me for both lunch and dinner.

Afterwards we went to my son's house for the gift opening. My grandson has been grilling me for weeks about my gift, and I was so afraid he would be disappointed by a stuffed animal and a T-shirt. But he loved them.

So, of course the $20 really threw off my budget. I have two days left now, and I'm 7% over. But some things you just have to do.

I'm really getting low on food now. My freezer is almost empty; the fridge is mostly stocked with condiments, and even the pantry is clearing out. My meals planned for today are: eggs, soup & roll, and cheese quesadillas with Spanish rice.

All my laundry hampers are full. But I have plenty of clothes, so that's no problem except for sleepwear. Tonight I'm wearing my swimsuit coverup as a nightshirt -- and I'll wear it tomorrow night, too!

I have physical therapy this morning. I hope it will be my last session. Rest has improved my knee so much -- I think I need rest more than exercise right now. And each session costs $45, which I can ill afford. (I haven't paid any of it yet; it will come in a chunk.)

It will be another hot day, and tomorrow will be as well, but a cooldown is coming. I am running my AC, but not full-time. I was quite comfortable last night with the air off and the ceiling fan on.

When payday comes on Wednesday, I will be plenty busy with shopping, laundry and paying bills. I have to say I'm looking forward to it!