I get my SS check tomorrow, so today I'm doing my November recap. I spent 118% of my variables budget. Oy! There were things I neglected to count, so it's higher than I thought. On top of that, I had to make a $585 payment for the cruise which came from savings. It's been kind of a rough month. Here is the breakdown:

Housing - $677
Vacation/Travel - $585
Gifts/Charity- $200
Clothing - $116
Utilities - $115
Groceries - $111
Medical/Health - $103
Gas - $100
Eating Out - $79
Fees/Services - $75
Vet/Pet Supplies - $70
Phone - $52
Personal $27
Laundry - $17
Furnishings/Equipment/Decor - $15
Miscellaneous - $12
Household Supplies - $10
Entertainment - $8
Fares/Parking - $6
Grand Total - $2378

Tomorrow I head up to Michigan. I'm nowhere near ready, but tomorrow morning I'll just do what needs to be done and leave whenever. Just hope it doesn't get too late in the day, because traffic will be terrible. Since I have to drive around the bottom on the lake, there is really no alternate route.

Probably will not be checking in -- so everyone have an awesome Thanksgiving, and I'll meet you on the other side!

I had a really great time with BFF. But I did go over my budget. I don't care. You have to grab your good times when they come along.

My spending was not terribly frivolous. I spent $26 on gas, $48 on eating out, $7 on a movie -- "Arrival", $47 on gifts, $16 on household items, and $115 on clothing (which included two pairs of shoes). And today I spent $21 on groceries and $3 on breakfast. My variables spending is at 111%. My month ends on Wednesday, when I get paid.

December won't be any better, probably worse, since my Christmas shopping is not any where near done. I'll have to make up for it in the early months of 2017.

I did finally get my first check from the museum! Whew, so slow!

Doing laundry tonight, getting ready for my trip up to Michigan. My brother DID ask for cranberry relish, so I'll have to make that tomorrow.

My dishwasher is full of water and it won't turn on. I had a rather expensive fix about a year ago (?) I'm not going to fix it again. I think it's old. I'm going to get a new one.

But I'm not going to get it right away, unless I find some great Black Friday-type deal. I'm going to wash dishes by hand for a while. After all, it's just me.

It was loaded (I guess I didn't notice the water in the bottom). So I unloaded it and washed all the dishes in the sink and set them out on the kitchen table to dry (on towels).

While I was at it I splashed a bunch of water on the floor, so I mopped the floor. Now I'm exhausted!

Not great timing, since I'm having company tomorrow. I don't think I'll cook dinner after all. And I only have $553 in the slush fund. I wish there were a little more. I haven't made enough money at the museum yet to pay for the car repair, let alone a new dishwasher.

On the good news side, I cashed in enough in MyPoints to get a $25 Amazon gift card. I did this at work and wrote the code down on a pad WITH the note "Amazon" and then left it on my desk which is in a fairly public area! Dumb. I was happy that once I got home I could still retrieve the code from my email and enter it on my Amazon account -- so even if someone tries to use it, it's already claimed.

I'm trying to get ready for my BFF. I did a load of laundry this morning before work. I changed the linens. I prepared my Goodwill donations (since we'll be going there.) I have five bags full. I'm putting things away, but really, she won't care even if it is messy, so I don't know why I'm worried. Tomorrow morning I'll vacuum; that's the big thing.

This morning I told my boss what is going on with my health. I just wanted her to know why I sometimes can't work as long as I said I would, and why I have so many doctor's appointments. She's very young, and she seemed a little freaked, so I had to stress that it's really more like a condition than a disease. I hope it was the right thing to do.

After beautiful weather, it's turning cold tonight. We may even see our first snowflakes. I'm not excited, but it's inevitable.

I got billed $50 by the podiatrist. (The bill is online -- I don't get mail that fast!) It appears the charge is for the office visit. I may be okay on the orthotics. It looks like insurance paid in full. They were quite a bit cheaper than I expected them to be.

I wore them for six hours today (though most of the time I was not on my feet). Still having no problems. The people at the podiatrist's office were very insistent that I build up slowly, and that I might experience some pain or discomfort, but I think I'm going to have an easy adjustment.

I had a poor night's sleep last night and felt very groggy at work today. I did the best I could and put in four hours. My boss was out sick, so that made it easy to leave early. Hoping to sleep well tonight and be fresh (and more productive) tomorrow.

I got my $5 Starbucks coupon via email. I was hoping for a gift card, as I wanted to use it as a stocking stuffer. I think I may use the virtual coupon to buy a gift card, adding some cash to make it a $20 card. It would be a good gift for my DIL.

I really need to get going on Christmas shopping, but I still have my son's birthday to worry about. I think he may get an Amazon card, since I am so lousy at picking out gifts. With an Amazon card, he can get whatever he wants.

I'm not even any good at shopping from Amazon wish lists! One year I misread the page and bought my son "best sellers" instead of what was on his list. It was pretty funny.

I need to think about what I'll take to Thanksgiving, too. Last year my brother asked me to make cranberry relish. He hasn't asked for anything this year. I may just take pistachios for the snacking over the weekend.

Can you tell I am really low energy? I hope that will change as I get used to my condition and get more sleep. Or maybe my energy will come back when I stop working! But I'll work as long as they want me to; I can't turn down the money.

My only spending today was $1 for coffee. I keep saying $1, because I round up when I'm talking about my spending, but I actually only spend .71. The real price is $1.21, but every day I use a .50 coupon which is issued on my receipt. I wonder when they're going to stop doing that! Until then I will continue to get coffee for only .71. It's Starbucks coffee, too! I've been getting the Holiday blend.

I'm breaking in my orthotics a little at a time. The directions say only an hour a day to start. I've been doing a little more than that, but I haven't done a lot of walking on them. So far they feel fine to me.

I ran into my friend C. outside Planet Fitness. She just joined! She's a little freaked, as she's never had a gym membership before, but I reassured her that PF is welcoming and friendly -- and cheap! We're going to plan to go together sometimes.

Anyway, she told me she was advised by her doctor to get physical therapy for her knee. When she checked with her insurance (which is exactly the same as mine -- same company, same plan) they told her it would cost $40 per session. Well, I've had six sessions, and no one has asked me for payment. At one point, a clerk in the doctor's office said it would be $5 per session, but I was never even charged that. Now I'm wondering if I will get a bill now that the PT is done.

Yesterday I was feeling a little peeved because BFF was starting to cave about coming up this weekend. She is coming. Her DIL had asked her to babysit, but after some back and forth she finally said, no, it wasn't on her calendar and she had made other plans. She did this without any prodding from me, so I'm so glad I didn't say anything.

I had lunch with my friend K. today. We always brown-bag it, usually sitting outside the museum, but today she suggested that next time we walk to a Greek restaurant in the neighborhood. She wanted to be sure it was all right with me, both financially and for my diet. I found her consideration very touching. We will probably do that after Thanksgiving break.

I also signed up for a happy hour and a luncheon with my professional association. I figure I'm going to keep pursuing all my social and professional contacts as much as I can. It's easy to get kind of isolated when you're retired, and I don't want that to happen. Both events will take place in December.

Well, surprisingly, it's been a no-spend day. I picked up my orthotics today (wearing them!) and they said there was no charge. Well, I know that's not true; the insurance company told me they would cover only 80%. So I guess a bill will be forthcoming, but I didn't have to pay it today. So for now, my variables budget is safe!

I went to the gym, and I went to have my blood drawn for the genome project. They told me it could be a year before I had results. That's okay, I wasn't actually expecting results -- I thought I was just donating for the sake of science! I asked about the $5 Starbucks card, and the people at the lab didn't seem to know anything about that. So I'm hoping I will get it in the mail; if not, it's no great loss.

BFF is waffling about coming this weekend. (She always does this. She would like me to always come to her.) I'm holding firm. I'm the one who is working, and now I'm also sick, for heaven's sake! Her kids have asked her to babysit, and I'm sure they have a good reason, but this is a pattern. No plan with me is ever solid. She takes me and my gracious flexibility for granted. I'm not really angry, if it sounds like it. I'm just stating facts. Luckily, she is a really good person otherwise, and worth the aggravation!

So we'll see if I actually have company this weekend. If not, it will mean more time to rest, and I won't have to worry about cleaning the house, or cooking!

Today I went to work with not nearly enough gas in my tank. I had gone to the gas station on Saturday, but it was so crowded I got impatient and left, thinking I would fill it Sunday. Sunday I didn't drive anywhere (skipped the gym, bad me). By this morning I had forgotten entirely about the gas situation, but I thought I had enough to get to work. And I did. But on the way home, the needle fell to empty. I didn't dare push it (too many bad neighborhoods where I wouldn't want to be stranded), so I stopped at a Chicago station and paid $2.44 per gallon, a lot more than I would pay at home. $25 total.

After I got home, I went to the gym and then to Aldi, where I spent $27 on kitty litter, paper towels, a red pepper, a bag of frozen chicken breasts, a bag of frozen tilapia, croutons, vinegar, Red Lobster biscuit mix, and celery. With BFF coming this weekend, I thought I would make a Red Lobster meal, with the tilapia, a side of broccoli, and the biscuits.

I also bought a coffee today at work - $1.

I had a pretty good night's sleep last night. I woke up early, but the first time I looked at the clock it was 6, which is a decent time to get up.

Tomorrow I go get my orthotics. I'm also going to try to get the blood draw done for the genome study, which will earn me a $5 Starbucks card.

I found a quarter today.

Variables spending is at 67%, with a week and two days to go.

The birthday party last night was sweet. Grandson had asked for key lime pie for his birthday cake -- I had just the tiniest sliver. Otherwise the dairy in it would set me off. It was so delicious! I got tired early and left to hit the sack, but my grandson's innocence and happiness was just what I needed.

My new normal is waking up at 3 am. I have a vague sense that something is wrong, and then I remember. My disappointment is crushing. My country is careening away from everything I thought it was. I can't go back to sleep.

I am just going through the motions in my life now. I'm going to ask my doctor about antidepressants, because I just can't do this.

Yesterday I was operating on about four hours of sleep, but I got a lot done. I went to my grandson's flag football game, I mailed my granddaughter's birthday present, bought two other birthday presents, bought a few groceries, worked out, made taco filling from scratch and did some laundry.

Spending was $125 all together, which brought the variables up to 61%.

I finally got the call that the orthotics are ready, so I made an appointment for Tuesday. They will probably cost me about $180 out of pocket.

Next weekend I will shop for new shoes to accommodate the orthotics (and because my shoes are worn out) and I was lucky enough to get a $40 coupon for DSW in the mail. BFF is coming up and we'll shop together. Between the orthotics and the shoes, it will probably shoot my variables budget -- well, I'll just have to make whatever cuts I can in other places.

I have been informed that assessment fees are going up 5%. That will be a $17 increase, or $213 per year. I've already adjusted my variables budget down, to allow for this extra fixed expense. The building is getting a new roof.

Tonight I'm going to my grandson's birthday party -- just a simple family get-together with cake and presents. I think there will be a lot of extra hugging.

I don't know how to get help now that Jeffrey is gone, but I can't read any blogs -- just the first page with the short blurbs. Clicking in gets me the "Page Not Found" message. HELP!!

Well, it's been quite a week, but I'm starting to feel normal again, and hopeful.

Yesterday I got to meet Laura (Nebraska) as she and her husband made a swing through Chicago! Delightful. I wish I could meet all the bloggers; it's so much fun.

I spent $3 yesterday on breakfast and $6 on cat food. Variables are hovering around 44%.

I'm finishing up another invoice cycle at work today -- another $1000. Still haven't seen any of it, though.

It's turning colder, and a hard freeze is expected tomorrow. I'm almost looking forward to it, because when it gets really cold, the radiators stay on all the time. In this in-between time, they come and go, come and go, and I'm never really warm.

Through all of this -- going back to work, the election, the diagnosis of kidney disease -- I've remained faithful to the gym, and I'm so proud of myself for that. I've never been a gym person before, but now I understand how having a place to go to that is purely devoted to exercise makes all the difference. I'm so glad I found a place that is not expensive. That said, it seems that Planet Fitness has forgotten to charge me the annual fee. It was supposed to come through in October. Now we're almost halfway through November, and still nothing. I assume they will figure it out eventually, but till then I'll just watch the Discover bill.

Going to a pizza party at my ex's house tonight with the kids. My ex is a school superintendent, and after the election he wrote a very fine open letter to his students about welcome and inclusiveness. It's been forwarded a jillion times on Facebook now. I'm proud of him, and despite the differences and betrayals that split us apart, it's heartening to be reminded of the values we share, too.

Anyway, free dinner tonight! And a lovely weekend to look forward to.

Well, my day at the polls was a complete waste of time. Not only was it a long, long day, working hard with snarky people who showed not a bit of appreciation, but then it was capped by the worst nightmare I could imagine. I commented on another post, but I'll say it here, too. This waste of space will never be my President. And with that I'll let it rest.

Spending has been pretty lean. I did a couple of loads of laundry over the weekend, and this morning I bought breakfast for $4. Food was provided at the polling place (I guess that was the one good thing about it!)

Not much other news. I'm pretty sad and dispirited.

Today I and the other judges set up for Election Day tomorrow. All the equipment has been tested and stored. We're ready! Now I just have to get up early enough to get there at 5am tomorrow!

Turns out the site where I will be working has a large kitchen with a fridge and microwave, and everyone will get time off for lunch unless the polls are REALLY busy, so I really didn't have to stress about what to pack for lunch. But I'll take my snack bag, anyway.

I paid my wheel tax today -- $75. Wheel tax is kind of a residency parking sticker, but there's no sticker -- it's all done by computer.

No spending otherwise. Oh, except for my $1 cup of coffee at work. (I did work in the morning; election setup in the afternoon).

I went to the gym after setup and got my free pizza slice. I exercised, too, of course. In addition, I got in a good 30-45 minutes of walking when I walked to and from the polling place. I would do it again tomorrow, but it'll be dark, and perhaps rainy, so I'll drive. Just hope I can find free parking.

Be sure and vote tomorrow!

Yesterday I went to see my grandson's first flag football game. Yep, no sooner is baseball done, than football begins. He is certainly a dedicated athlete.

I made two grocery trips before and after the game. The first was to Jewel, where I got a free MyMixx item -- popcorn snack worth $2.99 -- and nine other items: Banana chips, breakfast bars, dried apricots, granola, 2 Luna bars, blueberries, raspberries and an onion. $22. All the snacky things have been loaded into a bag to take to the polling place on Election Day. I'm not going to try to pack food that has to be kept cold.

The second was to Aldi. I bought 11 items there for $22, also. Biscuits, applesauce, spring mix, mushrooms, raisins, cream cheese, grape tomatoes, eggs, bagels, kitty litter and a package of bottled water. While at Aldi I made a quick diversion to PetSmart, where I bought fish food for $7 and two stuffed toys for my grand-dogs ($11). They will go in the Christmas package to Florida.

Variables spending is at 34%.

Had a so-so night, not as painless as the night before, but I feel pretty good today. I'm working on a load of laundry ($1.50).

Just talked myself down from going to DSW and getting some new shoes. I do need them, but it would be much wiser to wait until I get my orthotics, so I can get something I know they will fit.

Will be going to the library later to check out a new audiobook. I'll try to combine that outing with my visit to the gym.

Speaking of the gym, tomorrow is Pizza Day! So my plan for tomorrow is to work in the morning, come home and go to the polling place to help set up, then go to the gym for dinner and a workout. Then Tuesday is my long day at the polls -- which will only earn me about $11 per hour (counting the setup time, too). I'd be much better off spending the day at work, where I earn $25 per hour, but I didn't know I would be working when I signed up. But I'll do what I said I would do. And who knows, maybe next year I'll really need the extra money, and I'll be on the list.

Knock on wood, but the new statin seems to be fine. I'm not feeling any joint pain or muscle pain. I slept well last night. This is big.

Big expenditure today -- I'm going to take a $585 check to son's house to pay my share of the upcoming cruise. That seems awfully cheap; I'm not sure if there is more... It will come out of my slush fund, and will not affect variables.

I bought a book of stamps yesterday - $9. Did laundry for $1.50 (and again today).

After the gym today I'll stop at the grocer and pick up my ten items.

I'm coming near the end of my audiobook, so it's back to the library tomorrow. I also have to check out the polling place where I'm working (not sure where it is) and I need to do some birthday shopping and mailing. Glad I'm feeling better!

I got a good night's sleep -- went to bed around 8, but woke up at 3:30. I decided to get up and get some things done, as things have been getting away from me since my diagnosis.

I did a load of laundry, unloaded the dishwasher, cleaned the cat pan, washed my hair, packed a lunch, packed my gym bag -- I'm ready to go, but it's still a half-hour too early. Though it might not hurt to get on the road early this morning. I assume the Cubs victory celebration will affect traffic, even this early.

I got gas yesterday - $25. Also bought some coffee for $1. My new prescription was only $2. My variables are up to 25%.

K. gave me a HUGE Asian pear yesterday -- I'll be eating it for days!

I've noticed that I now feel a little nausea that comes and goes -- which is typical for this disease. My appetite is slacking off. I think I may have no trouble losing weight now. Just have to be careful to get my nutrition.

So far the new prescription is not making me hurt. But it's been one day.

Really looking forward to a restful weekend.

I had another bad night, not as bad as the others, but still ... just not getting enough sleep. After I got home from work today I had to lie down, I was so drained and exhausted, but then I had to get up again to go to the doctor.

This is the doctor who is subbing for my own doctor, and helping me out with my statin. At first she wasn't hearing me about the pain I am experiencing. I suppose it does boggle the mind that I have tried three statins and they all make me hurt. I probably sound like a whiner, but the pain is very real.

She settled on fluvastatin, which I haven't tried before, and which may have the advantage of being gentle on my kidneys. I will fill the prescription tomorrow.

I talked to my insurance company today and made sure they will send my info to my mortgage lender. They didn't have my loan number, so that was stopping the flow of information. That still doesn't solve the problem of the building insurance. I called my property manager, and I was given a number to call. I had to leave a message, but got no reply yet.

Spending today was $1 for coffee, $2 for parking, and $5 copay at the doctor's.

I'm going to meet K. for lunch tomorrow, so I have to figure out something for the brown bag. I do have apple slices. I may have to make a peanut butter sandwich. Or I could take some yogurt.

I didn't get to the gym today. I rarely miss, but the day was too crowded and I was too tired.

I got my free OTC medications in the mail today. I ordered Tyelnol -- regular, and PM -- menthol gel, Pepsid, lambs wool for my feet, and CoQ10. That was $50 worth!

I haven't heard anything about the orthotics. It seems like it's taking a long time to make them. I'd like to get that payment over with, and I'd also like to get some relief for my feet.

The teachers in our school district are threatening to go on strike soon. That means my DIL will need some help with babysitting, since she just recently got a part-time job. The timing isn't good for me, since I am working now, but I told her that if she can let me know on Mondays when I am needed, I can work it out in my schedule. The kids' other grandma also lives nearby, and she will help, too. She has a part-time job herself. My son can pitch in sometimes, too, as he can work from home on some days. We'll get it done. The best news would be, of course, that they decide not to strike!

Last night I went trick or treating with the grandsons (and their parents, and various other relatives and friends). It was a big group, and we had a lot of fun. It is so much fun to celebrate Halloween in our neighborhood. The neighbors really dress up their houses with all the spooky effects, and since they live in older, turn-of-the-century houses, they look fantastic!

I ended up walking quite a bit. I gave in went I felt I'd had enough, but it wasn't soon enough. My hips and legs ached tremendously, and I slept very poorly. Now that I can only take Tylenol, I don't get the pain relief I used to.

I think the Crestor is still very much in my system and working against me. Can't wait to get some relief. I hope they really have another statin that will work for me without causing pain.

Anyway, my sleep was so disturbed, I ended up getting up at 4. When I am up and moving around, the pain is not so bad. I don't believe I could have possibly slept more than a couple of hours. I hope I can stay alert today. I only have to work four hours today, but there is the commute, too.

So... I'm supposed to be talking about money, right? Not much to report. I didn't spend anything yesterday. Today I'll pay my wheel tax and renew my AARP membership. I have to get the insurance issue settled, too. I didn't have time to do it yesterday. I guess that's it!

Well, I'm having a good day after an awful, awful night. Let me just say I am not taking another dose of Crestor. I'll do without until I see the fill-in doc on Tuesday; I sure hope she has a better solution for me.

I got my hair cut (I tend to do it on Sundays, because I know my favorite cutter at Supercuts is always there on Sundays). It turned out especially good this time -- people were even telling me on the way out how good it looked! Well worth the $17 (which includes tip).

I went to the gym, and then I went to the library (free parking on Sunday!) I bought 3 books for $1.50 and checked out an audiobook for my commute. This library has a constant book sale and the selections are always great. There are many readers in this community who share my tastes!

I was on my way to my grandson's soccer game, but I hadn't had any lunch (and it was already 1:45). So I went through Mickey D's drive-through. I got a Happy Meal, so my sandwich and fries were small, and I got apple slices and apple juice (and consumed them both!) I got to the game just on time, but then I noticed I had received a text from DIL -- GS was bowing out of the game, decided to attend a birthday party instead. So phooey. I could have skipped the fast food. It was $4.

Now I'm home, with plans to rest up. (Since I was still awake at 3:30 AM, I doubt that I got more than four hours of sleep.)

Things to get done, if I get some energy: mend some pants, clean the fish tank, mop the floors, vacuum. Tomorrow starts another work week, and I surely won't feel like doing anything then!

Oh, and I need to order my OTC meds, which I get free with my Medicare supplement. Can't let that $50 value slip by!

Got my blood work done. Picked up a brochure describing a genome project. If I donate blood for it, I can earn a $5 Starbucks coupon. Think I might. Catch is, I have to make an appointment, and I work so far away.

At the doctor's office, I paid off a $36 balance.

I stopped at Jewel and got two free MyMixx items - yogurt and cinnamon bread. Free breakfast! With lots of cinnamon bread to spare. I also picked up pantiliners and a birthday card for my sister. $12. Yikes!

There was a woman panhandling outside the store and I gave her $4. I feel worse about the women than the men.

I did a load of laundry for $1.50.

I created my second invoice for the museum. That will make $2150 I've earned.

I've found .51 in the last few days.

I've done more reading on stage 3 kidney disease. It appears that risk of heart attack and/or stroke is greater than the risk of kidney failure. Got to keep doing heart-healthy things; keep my weight on the downswing. I am a bit unusual because most patients have diabetes and/or high blood pressure, and I have neither. I don't know if that's good or bad!

They're covering the story of an airplane fire at O'Hare. I was driving home from work today, when I was overtaken by a speeding police car and the SWAT vehicle (which looks like a big tank with flashing blue lights). Very intimidating. Turns out they were heading to the airport because of this fire. I suppose they sent the SWAT vehicle because there was the possibility it could have been a terrorist situation. Looks like everyone got out safely. It was amazing good luck that the plane didn't get airborne before the explosion.

But back to my life. I did return the night light, and I didn't spend any money today.

I almost cancelled my doctor's appointment, but decided not to. I suppose they must ask for a fresh new blood draw to be on the safe side. I called insurance to ask about coverage, and they said lab work costs a $20 copay and there is no limit on time between draws. So I'll do it, and see this replacement doctor on Tuesday. I really need to change my statin.

While I was on the doctor's website, I saw that I owe $36 -- $20 for my last blood draw, and $16 for my orthotics fitting. I'll take care of that tomorrow.

I went to the gym today, but wasn't good with my diet. The office was celebrating Halloween, and I indulged in a few mini candy bars.

I asked if heaters were allowed at work, and everyone chuckled and said, "No, but everyone does it." Well, I won't be the first. I'm very much aware I'm more of a visitor than a resident.

My newest problem: my mortgage holder is demanding a copy of my HOA policy. That's the policy that covers the building and exterior. Of course, I don't have that -- that policy is held by the property manager. We've been through this before. I thought it was resolved. Sigh. I probably won't be able to get anyone's ear until Monday morning. I'll also have to call my own insurer, because they are also saying my condo policy is expired. Of course I just paid, right on schedule. I'm asking again, does anyone do their job?

Today when I was leaving work I saw a display in the gift shop that caught my eye. It was merchandise connected to "Where the Wild Things Are." One of the items was a night light that has a picture of the moon, and the words, "I love you to the moon and back!" I bought it for my grandsons' room (for Christmas.)

I'm going to return it tomorrow. It was too much - $26 - and that was with my discount. It charmed me, but I don't think it will excite the boys. They probably feel they are too old for a night light. For that kind of money I should get something they really like.

I can tell them I love them for free! To the moon and back!

That's not the only decision I reversed today. I am trying to get my statin changed -- my doctor told me there was another one to try, if this one hurts me (it does). I contacted the office, but he is on vacation. The doctor who is covering for him will see me, but she insists that I have another blood test. I just had all my labs done about a month ago. I think it's a ridiculous request, and besides that, I don't think insurance will pay for the same blood work two months in a row. So I'm going to cancel the appointment. I'll wait until my own doctor is back, and we can continue the conversation we were already having.

I did do some frivolous spending when I bought a $3 hot chocolate at the museum cafe. Not to mention I shouldn't have milk and don't need the calories. My rationale is that I was freezing and I was feeling miserable. And it did do a good job of picking me up.

I came home very tired, but went to the gym, and afterwards went to Aldi, where I bought 11 items for $29: margarine, ice cream, kitty litter, toilet paper, sourdough bread, mac & cheese, coffee, creamer, crackers, granola and vinegar.

I worked the last hours of my contract today, so I'll create another invoice. I would do it tonight if I weren't so tired, but I think instead it will be a weekend chore. I asked about the new contract and I was told I would be issued a new PO number, and that was all I needed. I asked if the terms were the same. Yes. How many hours? Just turn in your hours, and we'll keep paying you. These people worry me. To be fair, the person I was talking to today was an admin assistant, and she probably doesn't know. All the bosses were out at a conference. I guess I'll go in tomorrow and just keep careful track of everything I do. I really don't believe they would try to cheat me, but they're very disorganized and loosey-goosey.

Since they asked about my Christmas plans, I would guess they're keeping me on till the end of the year. And I'll probably earn enough for that car repair, so it's all good.

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!

I got to work and back today with gas to spare. I'll fill up tomorrow when I go to the gym. In fact, I'll do a lot of things tomorrow, because I have the day off and it's PAY DAY! I'll do some grocery shopping, maybe get my hair cut. I have to go to physical therapy, too, which is why I have the day off.

I got my ballot in the mail today, so I was worrying needlessly. I do a lot of needless worrying. I've also heard from the administrator judge about election day and have promised to help set up the afternoon before elections.

It was verified today that my contract at work will be renewed. But I don't know for how much. I assume another $1000 batch, but I would like to know. My boss wants me to just keep coming in; I'm a little nervous without a contract in hand.

I met my friend K for lunch again today. We talked more about the girlfriend weekend. Will probably put it off till March or April, and now Charleston is a contender. K brought me healthy muffins -- so sweet of her! Breakfast tomorrow!

I got through today spending nothing (well, so far. It's early yet, but I'm not going to leave the house!) And it looks like I have enough gas to drive to work tomorrow. I'm going to try it. If the gas runs low, there are plenty of gas stations on the way. But if I get all the way home without having to fill up -- I've done it!! I've met the budget!

Today my boss asked me when I'm going to be around for Thanksgiving. I said, uh, I have 14 1/2 hours left; I'm not going to be here! And she said, oh, they're talking about another contract. This is the first I've heard of it. She wanted to know my Thanksgiving and Christmas plans. I told her I'm taking almost a week off for Thanksgiving, but I'll be around for Christmas.

I'm relieved and disappointed. Glad to have the money; not enjoying the work. And the office is so cold! I had the heat on full-blast in the car all the way home just to thaw out.

As I've said before, I've got to be grateful that my work is still needed and wanted. I never expected this. So I will work when I am asked, and squirrel away the money!

I got my assignment for election day. I will not be working in my own district, so I have to vote early. (I hope I'm not repeating myself) I sent in my application to vote by mail, but it's been more than a week and I haven't received a ballot. Wondering if I should just go to the early voting place. I certainly don't want to neglect to vote, this of all years!

I'm making some carrot soup and getting ready to curl up with a book and a blanket. I'm skipping the gym today! Don't want to use the gas it takes to get there.

Well, I bought the one can of cat food yesterday - .97. It didn't change the 100% in my spreadsheet. But then I got a new challenge. My grandson's baseball team won -- and they're in playoffs today. There may be two games, and the location is about a half-hour away. It would have definitely eroded my gas.

So I volunteered to stay home and take my other grandson to his soccer game -- someone had to do it anyway. Better that his parents get to watch the playoffs.

We'll see if I can get through the day without my grandson urging me to spend something. He's five. He doesn't understand about money, or the lack of it.

Sometimes I miscount on the variables budget, because I don't remember to record an expenditure. This month, because I was so close, I thought I'd better go through my receipts. Sure enough, I was off. I have actually already spent 100% of my variables budget -- no more, no less.

It would be quite a challenge to try to meet it, anyway. I have plenty of food, a half a tank of gas, and four more days. The biggest question mark is cat food. I have plenty of dry, but they clamor for the wet food in the morning. I have one can, which goes for two days. Hmmm. One more can would take me to payday. I could pick up a cheapo. Or I could borrow a can from my son, but I hate to admit to my silly money games. He would worry unnecessarily.

Half a tank of gas MIGHT give me two more round trips to work. But, if it doesn't appear to be stretching that far, I can take the El and the bus. Big pain, but already paid for.

I have to learn how to do this, because in my gap year, it will all be for real -- and if I don't save money now for my gap year, well, it will be an uncomfortable year.

I forgot to mention that the girlfriend trip to Key West is off. The other girlfriends are backing off from that destination -- flights and hotels are expensive. The latest idea is Asheville, and spending a day at the Vanderbilt mansion. That would work well for me -- I could drive to Asheville, and after the weekend is over, I could visit my sister, though I would have to figure out a place to stay. (My sister is a hoarder -- I can't stay with her.) None of this is decided, and it won't happen until January or February. Anyway, my point is, I won't have to have quite as much money put away for that trip.

Baseball game later in the day -- I will take along my workout clothes so I can go straight to the gym from the field -- that will save a little gas. And I'll pick up that can of cat food, too!

Well, I made it a short day at work, because I went without my reading glasses. Whoops! I didn't realize how very much I need them. I couldn't see anything on the computer. After struggling for an hour, I went to the gift shop to see if they had reading glasses. They didn't, but a very, very nice clerk loaned me a magnifying glass, which helped a little.

I managed to work 3 1/2 hours and finish one profile, and then I called it a day. I only have 14 1/2 hours to go on my contract, so I'm pretty sure I'll finish up next week. Realizing this, I decided to go ahead and renew my son's family membership while I could still get the discount. That will be a Christmas present (their current membership expires on 12/31.) It was $125 with my discount.

There was leftover food from a meeting this morning, so I got a free mini-bagel with schmear, some grapes, strawberries and melon. Also Starbucks coffee. I also brought home some fortune cookies in cute little boxes that were left over from an event. I'll give those to my grandsons.

Variables spending has now bounced up to 96%. I think I can successfully eat out of my pantry/freezer till payday, but I will probably have to fill up the tank again before Wednesday. And I'll have to buy cat food; at least a few cans. So it may be that getting in under 100% will be impossible. Still, I will try to come in as low as I can.

I took the day off today (planned). The main reason was so I could go to lunch with friends and former colleagues. We went to a well-known, celebrated taco place, and it was definitely living up to its reputation! I got grouper tacos -- delicious. Total cost was $20.

I did FIVE loads of laundry today. I shouldn't have to do it again for a while! Total cost - $7.50. I got lots of exercise on the stairs.

I'm very, very tired today. I did get up unusually early, and my sleep was pretty restless. I went to Planet Fitness at 6! It was nice and quiet. And that reminds me, I also paid the $10 monthly fee. It is charged automatically to my Discover card.

The temperature is dropping fast, but I haven't heard the radiators come on yet. They have come on once this season, so I know the boiler is turned on. Hoping they will come to life tonight, so I won't have to shiver under my covers.

Variables spending is now at 81%. This is good, but I need to do better to make up for the huge overage last month. It will take some time to make up for that.

I met my friend K. for lunch today. She knew how to get to the lake from the museum (through a tunnel!) so we went and sat lakeside and ate our lunches. It was good to catch up; we hadn't seen each other since last Christmas, I believe. It's amazing how time slips by.

After work I went to Planet Fitness, but first I went to Marshall's to get more workout pants. I don't want to get to the point where I can't go to the gym because I don't have any clean pants.

I make them double as pajama bottoms, so I needed "leisure wear" rather than "fitness wear." It was surprisingly hard to find them. But I did find 4 pairs on the sale rack. I don't think it was really much of a sale, since I paid $90. Ooh. That's $22 a pair. Well, I don't often buy clothes at retail stores, so the prices always amaze me. But resale shops are no good when you're looking for something specific. They only give up their treasures when you're just browsing!

My variables spending is now at 77%, with exactly one week to go.

I have tomorrow off. I'm going to have lunch with friends here in town. And I hope to get a lot of things done. The housework has suffered since I started working. And I have laundry to do again! But most of all I want to sleep without having an alarm wake me! I really don't like that any more!

Slowly I am putting my worries behind me. I had a good day today. I worked a half-day, and had a free lunch at work. It was amazing! It was a buffet with salad (dark greens), mozzarella & tomato slices, squares of salmon (and chicken, but I didn't take that), tiny grilled cheese sandwiches, and tomato basil soup. I felt a little guilty taking advantage of it, since I am so soon to be gone, but I WAS invited!

After lunch I came home to go to physical therapy (free parking again!). I then walked over to my doctor's office to dispute a bill, only to find that it was for the physical therapy. Duh. It's a $5 copay every time -- I didn't know.

Then I went to the gym and did my strength training, and after I was done I walked over to Food4Less and bought some healthy food for my brown-bag lunch tomorrow: apples, raspberries, carrots and Havarti cheese slices. ($9)

I was invited to go out to dinner tonight with a professional group -- not the association I belong to, but an affiliated one -- and I was planning to go, but I was too tired. I stayed home and ate chicken salad. Cheaper, anyway.

Common symptoms of stage three chronic kidney disease are: fatigue, insomnia, and restless legs. What have I been complaining about right here for years? It's kind of nice to know that there is actually a reason.

I've adapted well to Tylenol. I've only needed it a couple of times, but it seemed to work. I used to think that only Advil could deal with my pain, but I stand corrected.

The shadow has passed; things are looking up!