Well, I got through yesterday without spending a penny. And got some nice freebies, too. I (and three others from my office) provided training to some new people in a satellite office about 2 1/2 hours away. The place where I was training gave us a very nice sit-down lunch and then gave each of us trainers an golf umbrella. The best part is I actually needed an umbrella!

I didn't even have to take my car out of the garage, because my co-workers picked me up, and the company provided the car.

Of course, I worked hard. It was a long day -- 12 hours. But the people we were training were so nice, and interested and eager to learn. Altogether a very good day!

It was a good start to my personal challenge to spend as little as possible this month.

Today I had to go to Wal-Mart to get cat food and kitty litter, which are necessities -- I can't reason with the cats! I also picked up some milk. $15.34 altogether.

I did NOT pick up detergent, which I would have done in normal circumstances, because I am very low. But I did three loads -- my whole week's worth of laundry -- with much less than the usual amount of detergent. I gave each load a nice long soak before starting the cycle. They came out looking as clean and fresh as usual. I think I've learned something!

I also cooked and de-boned a whole chicken and made a batch of muffins, I'm preparing for the long month ahead.

I am hoping to get a reimbursement from my medical flexible spending fund any time now. It's only 30-some dollars, but it will give me a little boost. Till then I will scrimp, scrimp, scrimp.

Meanwhile I'm having a fun day, reading "Death Dance" by Linda Fairstein (from the library). Reading library books is the greatest free entertainment ever! So glad I have a good library close by.