First of all, I had a wonderful Mother's Day. We had a picnic in the park -- my kids and grandkids, my nephew's family, and various other family members. The weather was outstanding and the location was beautiful. I contributed a fruit tray to a lovely luncheon that included Italian beef sandwiches and grilled chicken, salads and desserts. Plus, we all took a longish walk on the trails to work off all those calories!

My kids gave me a birds' nest necklace with three "eggs" for my two grandchildren and one on the way...

Later in the day I went to take a second look at the condo I'm interested in, and I took along a bunch of family to get their opinions. Everyone gave it a thumbs up. The only drawbacks, in my opinion, are: no washer/dryer in the unit -- I'd have to navigate some pretty ugly stairs to the basement to do my laundry -- and the kitchen needs updating, particularly the cabinets. Also, the asking price is higher than I would like. I've been pre-qualified by my credit union for $120,000 -- this is $133,000. I think I will get the help of a realtor friend of my kids to see if the seller can lower the price and maybe even help me out on the washer/dryer installation. (I do know the building will approve the installation). The downside of adding a washer/dryer is that I would lose a very good coat closet. My head is whirling.

On my $300 challenge I am now down to $178. I bought groceries ($47), gas ($28), spent $5 at the laundromat to wash my comforters, $2.50 for lunch at McDonald's while I was waiting, and I also spent $2.50 for an antique cookie cutter for a co-worker who collects them. She will probably offer to pay, but I will probably refuse the take the money.