Yesterday I said my August goal would be to keep my spending under July's. After looking at things a little more realistically today, I see that was ridiculous. I spent $778 for carpeting, so there is no way I will come out under. So my goal will be to cut spending as much as I can. A little non-specific, I know.

I have not had a no-spend day yet this month. I ate lunch out today and yesterday -- today because it was my regularly scheduled get-together with old friends ($10 at Bistro) -- yesterday because I was running late and didn't have time to pack one ($4 at Arby's -- at least I had coupons!) On the other days I grocery-shopped, and one day I shopped at Goodwill and bought a pair of capris and a blouse.


I am completely out of my routine, what with coming home from vacation and immediately having to strip my bedroom for the new carpeting -- I had to sleep on the couch for two days. Now I have to get ready to fly to a conference on Tuesday. I'm so out of whack. This weekend will be catch-up.

I will get a pretty generous per diem while at the conference, plus a lot of the meals will be provided -- so I hope I will not spend much on food. I am also trying to stick to about 1700-1800 calories a day, so I won't be snacking.

I have to admit I plan to shoe-shop tomorrow. I need a decent pair of sandals to wear to the conference. Kohl's is having a blow-out sale; maybe I'll find a great bargain.