It was a pretty eventful weekend, starting with my train ride home on Friday night. To make a long story short, the scheduled train was disabled before it got to my station. We had to wait an extra hour and had to board at an intersection rather than the station because the train arrived on the center track. Which meant waiting outside. It was lightly snowing and some college students were singing carols (very professionally -- must have been part of a choir). So it was enjoyable, actually, until the train came and we saw that it was already standing room only.

So our group of 50-some people got on and packed the aisles, from front to back. (A lot of people got free rides, since the conductors couldn't navigate the aisles!) I was lucky enough to be offered a seat after someone got off at the next stop (one advantage of having silver hair!) But at the downtown station, I had already missed two connections and next one wasn't due for 40 minutes. I went to the food court and drowned my misery in nachos bel grande.

(One good note about the train ride -- I found a quarter on the connecting train home. There was another one between the seat and the wall in front of me, but I couldn't get it without making a spectacle of myself!)

I didn't get home until 8:30.

On Saturday, I awoke facing a day with tons of stuff to do and snow coming down at a steady pace. I managed to do three loads of laundry, make a run to PetSmart for kitty litter and water conditioner, and a long-overdue trip to the grocery store. I spent $73 for 32 items -- so, basically, three shopping trips in one, which was about right. I got virtually everything on sale, and got another 10% discount for turning in my Dominick's card. (Dominick's is pulling out of Illinois. Not sure why Jewel wanted the card, but I didn't want it). When I got home, I called my son and he helped me schlep them all upstairs. After a quick lunch, I drove to a neighboring suburb to attend my grandson's first violin recital. He played "Lightly Row" as a solo. He was calm, focused, and pretty much in tune! I was so proud of him! The rest of the concert was pretty fun, too. The teacher, a member of the symphony, played a piece of her own -- magnificently! One of the students was an elderly lady -- I admired her so much, for becoming a student so late in life and for gamely joining all the little ones on stage.

After the recital, I came home and finally put up my tree and decorations, and then pretty much collapsed. On Sunday, I did some housework and wrapped all the presents I've bought so far. I did a little cooking -- pork cutlets and broccoli cheese soup -- and then I went over to my son's house for dinner, where he introduced me to my new smartphone -- a Motorola Moto X. We ordered the sim card and set up an account with Straight Talk at his recommendation. It will be $45 a month with no contract -- pretty much unlimited services -- but I can downgrade if I find I am not using it much.

We have to wait for the sim card to come before it is operational, but I think I'm going to like it!

After dinner, my DIL's mother, who is living with them temporarily, came over to watch the last episode of Survivor. (They don't get CBS at their house). I didn't watch; I read till I fell asleep. We are comfortable enough with each other that it didn't matter that she let herself out at show's end, while I was probably snoring!

So it was a satisfying weekend, a good combination of work and fun, and progress made on the countdown to Christmas.

This morning was our annual staff Christmas breakfast. It was a wonderful spread, and I filled my plate. Feeling lucky, I bought $10 worth of raffle tickets -- didn't win anything, but I am okay with that -- my real purpose was to contribute. But then I did win something -- we all did! Our president announced that everyone was getting four extra days of vacation this year! That means a lot to me. I always use up all my vacation time, and I've already used a lot this year, what with the funeral and everything. Now I know I will have the time to go to Florida in February and help my son with his mammoth garage sale. And still might be able to take a day to visit my grandson in school -- and then go to Las Vegas in July!

It was payday, as well, so I paid my mortgage and Discover bill. Everything else is automated.

I also popped over to the campus coffee shop and bought a pastry and a $5 gift certificate for my student worker, whom I won't see again till the end of January. Sigh.

And last night I bought a lottery ticket. Only because I am going in with two other co-workers, and only for fun. The Mega-Millions jackpot is over $400 million.

I was mistaken that today was the day of our office party as well. That will be next week. So I didn't have to drive, thus saving gas, thus not having to make a dessert. It's all good.

Tonight we have a snow advisory. I hope it won't be too bad, because I really have to grocery shop, and tomorrow I really have to go to my grandson's concert (he's a Suzuki violin student -- too cute!) Plus, I have LOTS of laundry to do, but since that only involves a trip to the basement, I'm not too worried about that. Just hope the steps won't be dangerous.

I don't know what the temperature was today, but it felt downright balmy. (Not enough to melt the snow, however). I could take a winter like this, but they say the cold temperatures will return shortly.

Anyway, I really am full of cheer! It's been a great day and I'm looking forward to a great weekend! Hope everyone else is, too!

Despite the temps dipping to single digits and wind chill below zero, I had a warmer night. The radiators are working, just not getting hot. I was comfortable on the couch with a throw over me, and when I went to bed I added a heavy comforter that I don't ordinarily use. It was really warm -- I slept well.

The walk in did not feel terrible despite the temperature. But I think it was a good thing I wasn't out in it too long.

Tomorrow I drive to work -- party afterwards, so I need wheels. I'll have to buy gas when I get to my work town, and I hate the thought of pumping in ice-cold weather. Why is it that standing beside a gas pump always seems to be the coldest place on earth?

Tonight I need to make a dessert for the party. I'm thinking brownies, but I'm low on butter. Does anyone know if you can successfully combine butter and oil in a brownie recipe?

Just paid my semi-annual insurance - $215.

Tomorrow is payday. Looks like I'll be able to transfer $350 to savings. At Christmas time! Woo hoo!

It was another cold night in my condo. I'm going to have to let someone know. When you can't even read in bed, because you can't take your hands out from under the covers, it's TOO COLD! I never had this problem before. I'm hoping the board hasn't taken cost-cutting measures because that could be hard to fight.

The news was all about the cold and snow this morning, but actually, it wasn't too bad. A better walk than yesterday. I voluntarily moved my car, so that snowplowing could happen, and that was the most difficult thing -- brushing the accumulated snow off the car, then finding a new place to park.

Free food! December is the month of free food for me. Not only do I have a free breakfast coming up on Friday, but I have a retirement party today, a Christmas party on Friday evening, AND so many gift baskets/packages have arrived from alumni that I have been given quite a bit of cheese (including brie) to take home, as well as pudding mixes and concentrated water-enhancers (from a company that produces them). I haven't bought groceries since before Thanksgiving. But I will this weekend.

This weekend will be busy with decorating, grocery shopping, gift wrapping and laundry. I'm not able to get anything done at night, especially now that the snow and cold has moved in. It makes me more tired than ever. And then being cold at home just drives me to bed earlier. I'm sick of winter already -- and it's just started!

It was just so bitter cold on my walk this morning. I got a muffin and coffee at Corner Bakery just to reward myself for making the walk!

My son brought up my Christmas paraphernalia, including the tree, from my basement storage last night. He popped in before I got home, and it was all sitting there when I came home. It should have inspired me to set up the tree and start decorating, but I was too tired. And, my unit was quite cold. I ended up going to bed early just to warm up. All my radiators are open, so I hope the building manager hasn't decided to turn down the heat. I've never had that problem before, except in the transitional months when the boiler isn't on.

It was warm this morning, so maybe that was a fluke.

Last winter was pretty mild, though long, so I think I'm re-learning what a typical winter is like. It requires a certain hardiness, particularly when you have to spend some time out in the elements, like me. I am just grateful that my walks are pretty short -- I have four walks a day, but the longest one is about 15 minutes. In the morning, when it's really cold, it seems longer, but then it's such a welcome relief to get to the station and warm up. I couldn't help but notice that we have many more train riders these days -- I suppose many people don't want to drive in the snow -- but I wonder where they park? I'll bet the sometime riders are paying for parking -- they have that well-heeled look! I'm pretty sure they're not walking, like me.

So, the Christmas season is in full swing now! This weekend I spent $236 on gifts. I didn't get any particularly great bargains, but I think I made good choices. This is in addition to $200 in gifts I got free by using Discover rewards. I am seeing the light at the end of the tunnel. The grandsons are done, and their parents are done. My Florida son's family is getting token gifts from Amazon, and I will send a check as well, since I think their real need is cash. I will also send another gift to my granddaughter. I have a gift card for my niece and nephew, but I still need little gifts for their daughters. Also need to get gifts for my DIL's mother, and for my ex & his wife. (All these people will be at gift openings, so needs must....)

My girls' weekend was much cheaper than it's ever been, thanks to the generosity of the girlfriend who opened her home to us. She also made a breakfast and a lunch -- insisted! And what did I do? I broke a big bowl, trying to be helpful. So I will need to replace that. Unfortunately, that piece is no longer being made, so I will have to scour thrift shops -- or eBay. I did take her a hostess gift but it was only a couple of boxes of tea -- I feel quite beholden!

And speaking of her home, it was simply lovely. Built in 1893, it was full of beautiful built-ins, high ceilings, plaster molding, original hardwood floors -- but updated in the right places, the kitchen and the bathrooms! Very gracious, yet not at all ostentatious. I wouldn't exactly say I felt envious, but I could really see myself there! I kept threatening to stay forever.

Anyway, the cost of the holiday tea at the Drake Hotel was $66, and I chipped in $4 for a taxi. My only other cost was what I spent on gifts during our shopping foray. It was fun shopping on Michigan Avenue, though it was very crowded. All the clerks said it was much busier than Black Friday.

I came home too tired to grocery shop or put up the tree. I did manage one load of laundry.

While it was clear on Saturday, the snow came down in buckets on Sunday. It's lovely, but of course it adds that extra challenge to the daily walk. I have to be ever so mindful not to slip and fall. I refuse to fall this year! I simply refuse!

Just got a free (early) lunch. Tasty treats left over from an alumni reception -- brie, crackers, almonds, pumpkin bread. I have the makings for a peanut butter sandwich, but now it will wait till tomorrow!

On Friday I will get a wonderful free breakfast -- a Christmas tradition, where the food service chefs set up a fantastic buffet, along with omelet tables, for the whole staff. I've always wished I could be a camel and eat for the whole month in one sitting! (Not sure that's what camels do, but you know what I mean!)

Just a little spending this A.M. I drove to work, so I bought a wrap & coffee ($3) at Dunkin Donuts on the way. I packed a big lunch, but since I will be leaving late, I will probably have to get something on the way home as well.

I'm leaving late because I'm choosing to stay for a Christmas program. I don't want to let my crazy commute keep me from taking advantage of the pleasures of the season. And I hope the traffic won't be too bad by the time the program wraps up.

Tomorrow begins my girls' weekend -- I will be driving to Hyde Park this year, rather than taking the train. However, we will, as a group, take the train downtown once we are all together. Tea at the Drake is on, and we will probably go to Grand Luxe Cafe for an early lunch. No hotel expense this year, but I must pick up a hostess gift. I'm thinking a collection of Keurig cups. And I also have to buy another little Christmas gift for one of the girls -- or find one in my stash.

I went to the doctor last night. My knee was feeling so much better -- just like the washing machine starts working when you call the repairman! But I was glad I went anyway. He diagnosed bursitis in my hips, and probable tendonitis in my knee. He gave me a referral for physical therapy for my hips -- he seems to believe it is possible for me to get rid of the pain by restructuring my movements. That gives me hope, as I thought that only cortisone or surgery would help. It would be awesome to be, if not pain-free, at least pain-freer!

I've started Christmas shopping on Amazon. So far I've purchased about $200 worth of stuff for my kids and grandkids, but I've spent nothing. Love that Discover Cashback Bonus! I signed up for the $5 promotion mentioned in other posts, but I'm not sure I got it. Perhaps it can't be used in conjunction with the Cashback Bonus? Oh well, I'm not finished shopping yet, and the bonus money will run out soon, so I think I'll still get to use it.

The only spending I logged yesterday is $1.50 for a load of laundry.

My leg is feeling better today, but I will still go to the doctor, just to discuss what's happening with my joints. I think it's time to get it on record, even if the ultimate solution (surgery)is years away.

I'm trying very hard these days to practice gratitude. Yesterday I was grateful for the warm weather. I can't do that today! But today I'm grateful that the pain has lessened. I'm grateful that my doctor schedules evening appointments. And of course I'm grateful that I've done some awesome Christmas shopping without spending any money!

It was a no-spend day yesterday. No bills, no treats, no shopping.

But I have to get started on Christmas shopping. I have a few items, but not the big stuff. I'm going to depend a lot on Amazon gift lists this year. I have several hundred dollars in Amazon credits, from Discover and Swagbucks, so that will be a good start.

I made an appointment with my doctor for tomorrow. I have pain in my hips, which I've had for a long time, but now I have pain in one knee - particularly the back of the knee -- which is a lot worse and keeping me awake at night. And Advil is not cutting it.

Luckily my doctor offers evening appointments on Thursdays, so I was able to get in at 7.

I suspect that my knee pain is from repetitive movements -- I think I am compensating for the leg with the broken ankle -- and I am aware that when I step down from the train onto the platform, I often twist my knee in a way that isn't good. So I'm hoping that being mindful of correct movements will go a long way toward relief. I don't want cortisone shots, and I don't want surgery, though I will go there if absolutely necessary.

And I need to lose weight, which is always a battle of mine, never easily accomplished.

Back to financial talk, I picked up on the idea of others here to work out an annual budget. When I looked back at my spending logs over the last year, I realized that there were a lot of surprises and unknowns that I can't plan for. But I did make a simple outline of regular events, like insurance payments, taxes, and birthdays, and stuck in a few next-year-only plans like my niece's graduation and a possible trip to Las Vegas in July. And it certainly made me realize why the end of the year is always stressful, with multiple birthdays, Christmas, and an annual girls' weekend to pay for. So obviously, the key is to continually set aside $$ for November/December and then not stress about it when it comes! Not sure I will try to create a formal budget, as I think there would be many changes for things I can't anticipate.

Not an economical month for me, especially since it incorporated two trips. The first figure is what I spent this month, the second is the average for the year-to-date.

Housing - $1039 ($1183)
Vacation/Travel - $596 ($121)
Gifts/Charity - $177 ($177)
Clothing - $119 ($49)
Fares/Parking - $114 ($121)
Utilities - $89 ($98)
Groceries - $80 ($107)
Vet/Pet Supplies - $68 ($33)
Eating Out - $58 ($93)
Phone - $55 ($35)
Medical/Health - $27 ($91)
Furniture/Equipment/Decor - $23 ($543)
Entertainment - $20 ($45)
Household Supplies - $19 ($20)
Laundry - $12 ($19)
Fees/Services - $2 ($41)

In the categories below, I spent nothing this month. But here are the averages:

Car Repair/Maintenance - $59
Insurance - $59
Gas - $30
Home Repair/Maintenance - $21
Personal - $17
Miscellaneous - $2

Next big expenses -- Christmas gifts, and my girls' weekend in the city.

So, Thanksgiving was wonderful. The usual superb meal made by my ex-chef brother. A wonderful gathering of family -- and the kids were all grown-up enough to play nice with each other without constant parental supervision. I got to see nieces and nephews I see only once a year. We played some fun games, and had a BIG family outing to see "Frozen."

But I got sick. Honestly, I go from one cold to the next, and these are not sniffles, they are deep, hacking, head-throbbing, fever-running colds. Staying and sleeping in cold northern drafty farmhouses didn't help. I made it home on adrenalin and Advil Cold & Sinus, but I stayed home from work on Monday to rest up and recover. Today I feel better, but have a boatload of work.

Okay, financial stuff. My trip cost $67 in gas (but I have 3/4 of a tank left), $8 in food, $7 for the movie, $25 for a gift card for my hosts, and $66 for underwear, which I neglected to pack! Oh well, underwear will never go to waste.

Then yesterday I crawled out to Walgreens to get more medicine. I ended up spending $5 on a prescription, $14 on cold medicine, $8 on household supplies, $11 on pet supplies, and $13 on groceries. However, I won't have to go to the grocery again until Saturday.

AND, I learned that I will soon be getting a smartphone! Apparently I've been talking about it so much, my son finally broke down and told me he already got me one for Christmas. I'm a little bummed that he is spending so much on me, but, of course, delighted, too! Both my phone and my GPS are falling apart, so it is definitely time. Now to learn how to use it, and find a plan I can afford!

I've definitely decided I'm not driving tonight. I'll get up early in the morning for the three-hour trip. Weather and traffic aside, daylight driving is better!

Last night I went to PetSmart for the fish feeder -- only $3 for a package of two 3-day pellets and one 7-day pellet. Hope they like it. I also cleaned the tank so the fish are good to go.

Also went to Aldi, since it was right next door to PetSmart. Spent $32 there on two bottles of wine, a big jar of cashews, a box of chocolate truffles, two packages of dried beef and a loaf of bread. For my son's birthday (Thanksgiving Day) I'm making his favorite entree, the ultra-frugal chipped beef on toast. Did I raise him right, or what?

Also spent $4 at McDonalds for dinner, since it was late, and there was no food at home. I'm looking forward to getting re-stocked once I'm home again for good.

It is brutally cold today. The walk to the station and to work was painful. Hoping that the weekend will be warmer, even though I will be farther north!

I sort of feel like I'm in limbo -- home for a few days, but soon to be traveling again.

Work seems weird, too. Everyone is already focused on vacation. I think tomorrow it will be dead.

Weather reports for Wednesday are not good, so I've pretty much decided I will travel on Thursday morning. Hate to miss anything, but I think it's for the best. If I get an early start, I should miss the worst of the traffic, and clear roads will be a boon, too.

Yesterday I bought my train pass ($105) and spent $4 on pretzels at the station. I got the garlic flavor and it stayed with me for HOURS! I will not do that again.

My son's birthday is on Thanksgiving, so I have to wrap his gifts to take along. I also have to go to PetSmart tonight and buy a vacation feeder tablet for my fish. I should get something for my hosts, as well. I'm thinking maybe Garrett's popcorn, since they love it. The only problem is that a big tin is hard to handle on the train, and the station is where I buy it!

Also need to get a nice bottle of wine for the dinner.

Uh. I am not prepared for this holiday.

At this time of year I do try to be mindful of others who have less. I had a good opportunity yesterday when volunteers from the food depository passed out paper bags to fill at the station last night. I didn't have much in my pantry, but I put a box of spaghetti, a can of pumpkin, a can of cranberry sauce, and a can of Spam into the bag and dropped it off this morning. Gave me a good feeling with very little effort on my part. Couldn't help but notice that the great majority of people just walked past.

Every month when I remember to move my car on street-sweeping day, I feel like I've saved $100! I moved it this morning, parking nearer the station. Tonight I'll walk to the car first and run my errands. Then I have to park on the OPPOSITE side tomorrow. I wonder how many people get stuck with tickets? And how many pay them? It always seems like there are a lot of cars in the wrong place!

FYI, I read that John Cusack's boyhood home is up for sale for $980,000. The interesting thing is that it's just a few blocks away from where I live -- which I did not know! That's what I love about my neighborhood. It's such an interesting mix of inhabitants, rich and not-so-rich. Guess which one I am!

I returned home from my Florida trip yesterday afternoon. Overall, I had a wonderful time -- precious visits with family, lots of time for talking, and playing games. Lots of interaction with my beautiful granddaughter.

I also came home dead tired. I never slept well the whole time -- sometimes I was sharing a bed, sometimes it was just that I wasn't in my own bed -- and sometimes I was in too much pain to sleep. My legs are giving me fits. I think I have a combination of bursitis, inflammation in the joints, and an unhappy sciatic nerve. Of course, I will have no time to go to the doctor before the Thanksgiving trip in two days. Luckily, I have some good pain pills left over from another painful episode.

My spending was not too terribly bad, considering. The flight was $281, taxi $31, food $122, gas $84, hotel $111. No rental car fee, as my brother took care of that while I took care of the hotel. I spent $60 on flowers but my siblings gave me too much of their share, so I ended up spending nothing for them, essentially.

My son helped with cleaning out my uncle's room in his assisted living facility, and was given two nice pieces of cherry furniture, a set of dishes, and a grandfather clock. AND, he will inherit my uncle's car. So nice to see how much the family likes him. And since he is just starting out, and the rest of us are downsizing, he was the perfect person to take on the family heirlooms.

I took just a few mementos -- my favorite, a jar of old marbles.

Now it's a short week and another trip, this one a driving trip. Woo-eee. Wish I could have spread out the joy, but that's how it is.

I had a really great weekend with my BFF, despite the big storm that soaked us, despite setting off my car alarm and being unable to find my remote, despite losing (but eventually finding) her sweatshirt in the movie theater .... it was that kind of weekend, and yet we had fun.

We ate out twice, and I spent $29, which was not bad. We saw a movie, "The Book Thief" for the senior citizen price - $7.50. She is my Goodwill buddy, so we scouted out a new store in Northbrook. She had a 25% off coupon for her birthday, so we got some really good deals. I spent $11 on gifts, $5 on home entertainment (puzzles), $14 on clothes & jewelry and $10 on household items. Very pleased with all purchases and sated for a while.

Had a great time also at my grandson's birthday party. He got some nice gifts that weren't over the top -- books, games, etc. I gave him a spirograph set, a stuffed peregrine falcon (his new obsession) and a shirt and pants which I got ridiculously cheap!

My biggest spending came from preparing for my trip: $32 to reserve a taxi, $60 for flowers (I'll get some reimbursement from siblings for that), $20 for cat litter and cat food. I also spent $22 on groceries and household items, and sent $22 to the dentist. This morning I ordered ornaments for my grandchildren for $20. I always try to get ornaments featuring the costume they wore for Halloween -- they made it tough this year by dressing up as knights. But after a search, I did find some nutcracker knight ornaments that will do.

It will be a costly week in Florida. But I am trying. I will sleep most nights at my son's house. I'm sharing a rental car with my siblings. Eating out will probably be an expense, as I don't expect my son to feed all of us as well as offer a free hotel. We'll just see how it goes. It is important to me to honor my uncle, so I'm not going to stress about money.

I will pack tonight -- lightly. The taxi will pick me up at 4 AM. UGHHH! But once I'm at the airport I will begin to relax. I always do. It's the prep that drives me nuts.

Some days, when I'm just feeling sorry for myself, I cheer myself up with Garrett's popcorn. Yesterday was one of those days. It was $4.50 for a small bag of cashew caramel crisp, which I bought at the station on the way home. I ate every morsel. It turned out being my dinner, as I wasn't hungry when I got home and went to bed early.

Why was I feeling sorry for myself? I was dog-tired and foggy from a sleepless night, my knees were hurting for some inexplicable reason, and work was stressful.

I'll try to make these little treats few and far between. But boy, was it good!

I forgot to mention that the lunch I had on Wednesday was free! The nice woman who wanted tips about my line of work insisted on paying, not only for me, but for my friend who got us together. Nice! And it was a wonderful lunch called Pot Roast Skillet -- pot roast with potatoes topped with fried eggs. Sounds weird, but it was delicious.

I found another penny this morning, this time in the station.

It's payday! So I will be sending in my mortgage payment and paying my Discover bill. I'm also going to transfer $800 into savings. It's been a good month for saving. Next month will be a different story, with all the traveling expenses popping up.

Tonight I need to do some catching up on housework before my friend comes for the weekend. But I'm not going to stress myself about it. I know she is not coming to see how clean my house is, and she does understand my break-neck schedule.

Coin-finding has been slim pickings recently, but I did find a penny shining under the lamplight this morning. Interesting how it can actually be easier to see coins in the dark than in the daylight!

The Social Security program yesterday was jam-packed with information. I was glad that the presenter verified my plan to claim my ex's benefit at age 66 and switch to mine at 70. The nice thing I learned is that I can do it online without even contacting my ex. And I don't have to wait for him to file to claim the benefit, as long as he is 62. (He is.)

I will have to set up an account on the website, and it sounds like I should get a credit report beforehand, as there will be a number of questions to answer.

I also learned that it is a myth that payments don't start for three months -- they begin right after you file. However, you can file three months (or more) before you retire, just as long as you don't earn more than $15,000 in that time. I think I might as well do that; get a little overlap in payments.

I'll need to file for Medicare Part A during the open enrollment period at the first of the year. I don't need to file for Part B until I retire and lose my benefits.

Part D covers prescription costs. I'm really on the fence about that. I have one prescription that costs me $5 a month. (I know it would cost more without a plan, but I don't think it would be a lot more). It seems like it would make sense to just pay for it out of my own pocket, because a premium would be more expensive. But you have to weigh the risk of needing expensive medication in the future. I wonder if you can choose to pick it up later?

I think, next year, I will have a little more in my paycheck. Switching to the HMO will lower the premium. Also, I elected to put less in flexible spending. I usually have trouble getting it all spent before the end of the year, unless I have a medical event.

No spending yesterday, but I did reserve a hotel room for $111. I'll be sharing it with my siblings, so I'll probably pay $37 in the end.

Still to do -- get flowers, get transportation to the airport, and arrange for pet sitters.

And after the Florida trip is done, there's Thanksgiving! Thank goodness I am not traveling for Christmas.

Not much financial going on. I'm going to a presentation on Social Security today -- figure I can use all the information I can get. Then I have a lunch scheduled with someone who wants to get into my field. A mutual colleague is arranging it. She just wants some tips on what she needs to know, how to present herself, etc. Kind of amazed someone WANTS this job, but there you go.

I did a load of laundry last night ($1.50) and I unloaded and loaded the dishwasher (that was free ) It felt good to get that little bit done -- the house just gets away from me during the week. But I have company this weekend so I have to keep up.

This weekend we'll be celebrating my grandson's birthday. He gets to pick the restaurant for his birthday lunch, and he has chosen Outback Steakhouse. That will be at 2. I figure my BFF and I will get brunch at a favorite restaurant in the morning. And we'll probably go to a movie on Sunday. So there will be some spending this weekend, but I am also expecting a very good time!

Baby, it's cold here! I hope this is just a fluke, and we're back to normal fall weather soon!

Yesterday I donated $20 toward a wedding gift for a colleague. Usually I don't give that much, but it will be my only gift, and it is for someone I like and respect very much.

This morning I bought my breakfast at Corner Bakery ($4). The reason being, it was a rush morning because I had to find and break out my winter gear -- it was 24 degrees! And I didn't take the time to pack a breakfast. Lunch is already in the work fridge (I often take enough for two days). Anyway, I have to say, I did enjoy it! Doing something less often makes it more fun!

Still hammering out plans for the trip to Florida. My brother, sister, cousins and I are trying to coordinate -- it's not easy, especially with the main airport two hours away from the site of the memorial service. But I think I and my sister will stay with my son for most of the time. My brother and cousins will probably get hotel rooms near my son's house. On the night of the service, we will all try to get adjoining suites in a hotel down there. I'm guessing I will have to rent a car, too.

Oh well. It will all come out of my emergency fund, and I will make it up. I'll try to save where I can.

Yesterday I was in a meeting that ran late, so I had to take a train one hour later than usual. It was a dark and cold walk home (and snowy!), but once I got home, I was happy to be able to throw together a great meal -- steak, steamed asparagus, smashed potatoes and a glass of wine. MMmmm. Tonight I'm going to use the leftover steak in fajitas.

I could have used my new boots yesterday. But I wore them today -- there is still snow on the ground, though I doubt it will last. I am happy to report that they are very comfortable. And warm.

Like the rest of the world, I went to Kohl's yesterday. I had a 20% off coupon, as well as a $10 and $5 off coupon. My mission was to find a pair of winter walking boots, and I did. I ended up with a pair of Eddie Bauer boots, short, pull-on, lined and roomy enough for SmartWool socks. They were originally $90 and with the store's sale and my coupons, I got them for $38.

My only regret is that they are not a little taller, but since I mostly walk on sidewalks I guess that is not a big issue. The big issues are warm, comfortable, and non-slip, and they fit the bill. And the price was great.

And it looks like I got them just in time, as snow is predicted today. (I'm not wearing them, however; I don't think the snow will amount to much.)

On Saturday I did two loads of laundry ($3) and went to the grocery ($34). My ten items were:

Flour Tortillas
Cinnamon Applesauce
Tomato Soup
Wheat Saltines
Plain Yogurt
Creamer
Wine
Sirloin Steak
Oranges
Asparagus

The steak was actually two packages, two steaks in each package. It was a BOGO. I froze three steaks and will have one for dinner tonight.

I finally made the tomato-pumpkin basil soup, and I loved it!

I didn't do much else this weekend, as I am still under the weather with this cold. And I've got lots of activity coming up -- grandson's birthday, a visit from my BFF, a trip to Florida, uncle's memorial service, granddaughter's birthday, Thanksgiving, son's birthday, girls' weekend, and then Christmas! Wow. I feel like going back to bed just from typing all that!

After a lot of back and forth, changing plans, etc., I went back to my original plan -- fly to Tampa on the 19th and out on the 24th. My DIL changed her plans, so I will get to see my granddaughter after all!

I was planning to fly United and use my $200 voucher, but the price shot up to more than $535. So I went with Spirit for $281 (which includes a checked bag) and I'll save the voucher for another trip; hopefully, a cheaper one. Maybe a fun one.

Spirit doesn't offer bereavement fares, but the ones that do were way more expensive.

Other than my train fare yesterday, I did not spend anything.

I found another penny this morning under a parking meter. It's slow going, getting to that next milestone, which is $50!

I caught a later train this morning so I could go to Lost & Found when it opened at 8. It cost me another $4.25 to get to the downtown station. But I got my pass! I'm so grateful to the unknown person who turned it in. From now on the pass doesn't leave my grubby paws. I will show it to the conductor, and then it goes back in my bag.

Since I was driving yesterday I made a stop at Goodwill. I volunteered to buy forks for the break room -- we have every other kind of silverware, but the forks have disappeared! I only found four; they were only .10 apiece. I also found two pairs of shorts for my granddaughter and a pair of pants for my grandson, as well as a knitted scarf for me -- which I wore this morning! Altogether I spent $8. Since it was Senior Citizen Day, I got a 15% discount.

I talked to my Florida son last night, trying to make plans about the memorial service. He has to have a root canal, and was quoted a price of $2,500! I've never had one, but that seems high. He was wondering if he should get a second opinion, but hates to spend the money for another appointment with a new dentist -- I assume the new dentist would have to take X-rays? I didn't know what to tell him. It does seem like it might be a lot of cost with a strong possibility that the second dentist will simply agree with the first.

The memorial service will be on November 20, and I'm tentatively planning to take off the 19th through the following Sunday. Unfortunately, there is a strong chance that my DIL and granddaughter will be in Colorado at that time. Still, I will get to visit with my son, as well as other family.

My cold is still making my head fuzzy. I'm coughing and not sleeping well. I'm ready to be done with this.

Well, as you all know, I wasn't in a very good state of mind yesterday -- tired, sick, grieving -- so I wasn't alert, and I left my monthly pass on the train. And I didn't realize it until it was too late to check Lost & Found. (The train had left).

I actually wasn't too upset -- in the whole scheme of things it didn't matter too much yesterday. Today I'm a little more upset. I had my business card on it, and I was hoping that I would have an email or a phone message this morning, but I do not. I called Lost & Found, and they said to check back later.

I have a sinking feeling I'm not going to get it back this time. Which will be a loss of $100. I'll just have to try to make it up in other ways, and write it off as one of those unavoidable emergencies. (Although it was certainly avoidable -- I just have to screw my head on tighter!)

So I spent $4.25 on a ticket home. I drove to work today.

While I was in the station I bought sympathy and birthday cards -- $12.

I also bought a 7-Up from the vending machine at work yesterday - $1.50. Just needed the bubbly. And this morning on the way to work I bought a bottle of water for $1 because I forgot to take some from home -- and I have to drink water with my Mucinex-D (which I'd already swallowed).

My cousins are talking about holding a service for my uncle later in the month. I heard this from my brother, and he didn't have all the details, but it sounds like the actual funeral and burial will be for the immediate family, and the service will be for everyone, including family members like me who have to travel a ways. Some of the possible dates are after Thanksgiving. I'll just go with the flow.

My uncle died this morning. It was not exactly surprising, since he was 92, but he has always been in remarkable health. He had a mild heart attack a few days ago, but he was scheduled to leave the health center in the next few days. This morning he just went quietly in his sleep.

He was the last of that generation in my family. He was my stand-in dad for many years, since my dad died at the age of 69. I will miss him.

Arrangements are yet to be made, but I'm pretty sure there will be a service in Florida. I'll do everything I can to make it there. I do have a $200 voucher for United Air Lines, so that might help.

My cold has worsened, and last night I took Mucinex-D, forgetting that it keeps me awake. It did dry me up, but I spent many hours lying awake in bed. So I'm really tired today, and taking a sick day was tempting. I wanted to come to work, however, because today was the presentation about the changes in benefits. I'm going to go with the HMO, despite my earlier bad experience with one. My new primary doctor is in the network, as well as the hospital most convenient to me, so I think it will work out. It will be more than $100 cheaper a month. And I think I have a better grasp of the rules than I did before.

I got a free lunch at the benefits health fair!

My only spending yesterday was $5 for a prescription.

Tonight I'm going to walk $20 over to my son's house for my grandson's school fundraiser.

Then I'm going to go to bed and hope to get a good long night's sleep!

It almost seemed like a lost weekend. First of all, my BFF called on Friday night and begged off, due to a bad cold. I was okay with that -- didn't want to get a cold. Surprise ! I'm getting one anyway!

On Saturday morning my son called and asked if I could watch the boys while they car-shopped. As it turned out, the boys were with me until after supper, but my son and DIL succeeded in finding a great car. They bought a Buick Rendezvous, a 2004 model but in amazing shape! 75K miles. They paid under $7K. Sounded like a pretty good deal to me. They paid cash. My son is a chip off the old block! (Me, thankfully, not the ex!)

After a full day with the boys my house was wrecked, and I was exhausted. On Sunday morning I started putting things back in order. I did three loads of laundry, and did some cooking -- I made sloppy chicks filling, a chicken broccoli casserole and chicken salad. Also some cream of celery soup.

The kids invited me over for pizza at lunchtime, and I spent some time playing games with my son and older grandson. Then ran some errands and went home, where I spent a good part of the day sorting clothes and putting away summer clothes, as well as clothes that are too small. Then I watched "Up in the Air" on broadcast TV, and suddenly, the weekend was over! It just disappeared.

I was so looking forward to having an extra hour of sleep this morning, but actually, getting up felt just the same.

My spending:

Groceries: $36
Home Depot: $22
PetSmart: $41
Laundry: $4.50

At the grocery, I bought:

Granola bars
Almond milk
2 packages muffin mix
Chocolate milk
Granola
Broccoli
Chicken
Sourdough bread
Coffee
Kitty Litter

Still experimenting with muffins -- the mix was cheap, but didn't produce much, and the blueberries, of course, were fake.

My Home Depot shopping was another storage bin (bought one last week, too), and a 3-pack of spot bulbs for the kitchen can lights.

The PetSmart purchase was a box of 12 aquarium filters plus a $1 donation for homeless pets.

Housing - $1039
Gifts/Charity - $188
Groceries - $128
Fares - $105
Utilities - $104
Eating Out - $83
Clothing - $58
Gas - $36
Furnishings/Equipment/Decor - $30
Vet/Pet Supplies - $29
Medical/Health - $27
Car Repair/Maintenance - $25
Laundry - $17
Entertainment - $16
Personal - $15
Household Supplies - $9
Miscellaneous - $9

Grand Total - $1918

First time since March I've been under $2000!

What a day it was yesterday! First of all, it was good that I was at work, because my comment about data blowing up turned out to be true -- there was a mistake in a report that was already sent out to the donors (not my mistake). I was the only one around to handle it. I couldn't correct it, but I could figure out who could help. It's all resolved now, except for re-sending it to donors -- hope I won't have to do that; I expect the project's manager will be back in the office today.

I had a good dentist's visit. After confessing in the chair that I had been terrible about flossing, the hygienist said, "Your gums look great -- but get back on track, okay?" Next time I won't confess so fast -- of course, I'm going to be better, so will have nothing to confess.

I got a ride to the dentist from a co-worker, but it was clear enough afterwards to walk back.

I left at 3 to get back for trick-or-treating. It was raining to beat the band, and I got soaked on the walk to my place. Quickly changed shoes and jacket and met up with the kids. One grandson was already crying because he had left his treat bag behind. The other was soon crying because he fell down and got his hands muddy. Eventually we figured out that the little one was running a fever. The rain continued and we were all soggy. There were some good moments but overall it was a pretty dismal Halloween.

We made a quick stop at a friend's house for chili, then got the boys home so they could sleep it off.

It was a no-spend day.

Today I got up and realized I had no breakfast to pack. There is oatmeal at work, but at the station I felt too hungry to wait and succumbed to a sausage biscuit at McDonald's along with a cup of coffee. ($2)

I'm so excited that today I get to do my October recap AND do the monthly Treasurer's report for my professional org! What glee!

And a found a penny this morning, so all systems are go!

I was supposed to take today off, so I could go to the dentist and trick-or-treat with the grandsons.

Well, I'm still going to do both, but will work, too. My boss is on a two-week leave of absence; one of my colleagues is on vacation, and another just told us yesterday that she is going to spend the day in the hospital today while her mother is having surgery.

That leaves me the only admin; and we can't all be gone at the same time. What if some data blows up?

So I'm going to work until 2, so I can be home in time for the trick-or-treating. And I'll walk to the dentist's appointment at 11 -- not so happy that it's raining, though. It's about a 20-minute walk. I decided not to drive because 1) it's raining, 2) the free lot is so far away, and in the opposite direction of the dentist, and 3) you can never count on traffic moving, but the train is mostly on time. And 4) it costs to drive, but the train ride is already paid for.

I hope it will be quiet.

My only spending yesterday was some candy at CVS - $5. I am going to give my grandsons little treat bags (as if they won't get enough already!) Plus, I'll have a little bit on hand just in case trick-or-treaters come to my door after I get home. Unlikely, but possible.

I heard a crash in the night last night -- loud enough to wake me up and get me up to investigate. I found nothing. So perhaps it was outside, or in another unit? An All-Hallow's eve "bump in the night?"

I made the pork cutlet dinner last night, and there's enough pork left for a sandwich for tomorrow's lunch. Yay!

My BFF verified she will arrive on Saturday morning. I think I will table the seafood lasagna for another time. I'm already stressed thinking of the stuff I have to do before she gets here. If we end up eating at home, I'll make grilled cheese or something simple.

Just found a penny on my walk in this morning. I was just thinking it had been a while since I found some change!

My only spending yesterday was a $2 contribution for Halloween treats for our student workers.

I made a great supper last night! Chicken & onion teriyaki sandwich -- tasted just like Subway! Basically I just sauteed some onion, added cooked chicken cubes and teriyaki sauce and heated it up -- then served on a French roll. The best part is I have another one for lunch today, and one more serving in the freezer.

For tonight I am thawing a pork cutlet with Cajun seasoning -- I'll saute that and make some mashed potatoes, using up the garlic butter I made earlier in the week for garlic bread. And I'll make a side of carrots as well.

For the rest of the week, I have the makings for tuna salad, grilled cheese, and omelets. And this weekend I plan to make seafood lasagna -- but with my BFF here, it might not happen. We might be out all day!

Yesterday I did one load of laundry for $1.50, and I sent $100 to my sister for her 70th birthday.

It's a little more than two weeks till payday, but it looks like I am on target to transfer $800 to savings. Fingers crossed that nothing comes up!

I have decided to take Halloween Day off so I can go trick-or-treating with the grandsons. I have a dentist's appointment that day as well. So tempted to put on some fake vampire teeth, but would not spend the money, even for a good laugh!

I won't have to take vacation time, as I still have a comp day coming for my work during Homecoming.

BFF is coming to visit this weekend! If she doesn't cancel, which she is prone to do! Her birthday is next week, so I will have to get her present together. I have a book and bookmark ready to wrap, but I think there is something in the gift stash as well. It seems I picked up something during the year -- she is so easy to buy for, since she likes and appreciates thrift-store finds. I wish everyone on my list were that way!

I am also in the throes of planning our annual girls' weekend. I just made the reservations for tea at the Drake Hotel -- a tradition. And my friend in Hyde Park has offered to let us stay at her house. That will be fun -- it is an old house, new to her. I haven't seen it yet, but I'm sure it's very posh. We haven't talked about it yet, but we may do lunch at the Grand Luxe -- that seems to be becoming a tradition, too! The rest will be shopping -- but I do a good job of just enjoying the scenery while they shop. We are good friends, but we are definitely in different economic tiers!

And of course I'm also thinking about Thanksgiving. It is always at my brother's, but I always have to call and make sure it's still on. I don't know what we would do if he said no! It looks like my sister and my Florida son will not be coming. We will still have a good-sized group, with all my nieces and nephews and their children. And I have to think about how to handle my other son's birthday, which falls right on Thanksgiving Day. I'm sure my DIL has some ideas!