I read that Kohl's had savings up to 80% -- and it is the closest store to me, just a few blocks away. So I checked it out and came away $150 poorer.

Good deals, though. My son has a birthday at the beginning of February, and I took care of that. Found a casual jacket and knit top in coordinating colors -- retailed for $126; I spent $42. Also found a box of Jelly Belly "cocktails" -- $3.50 marked down from $7.

Camisoles were half-price and I bought six for my two DIL's, who both have birthdays in June. $42 marked down from $84. I'm a little worried whether they will fit -- they are mediums, for medium girls -- but they looked small to me. Stretchy, maybe? Anyway, at Kohl's they can return "any item, anytime, for any reason." It's on the receipt. I hope that's true.

I also bought six sets of Food Network bar towels and scrubber dishcloths. $28 marked down from $52.

And for myself I bought four pairs of knee socks for $18, marked down from $28.

So it begins again!

I think tomorrow I will go up to Evanston to check on my son's cats (the family is away for a week). I promised to do it midweek, and tomorrow is Wednesday already. I hate to spend the gas, but I made the offer myself. I know how I worry when I leave my cats alone for an extended period of time. Even if you leave out a lot of food, there is still the water and the ever-worsening litter pan to consider.

I re-started my diet today. My son and I are both going to follow a plan where you have two very low-carb days a week, and for the rest of the week you just eat reasonably. (I'm aiming for 1400-1500 calories on those days). Today was a low-carb day and I ate only 13 carbs.

I am also going to try to exercise every day, even if it is just a little bit. Today I walked to the library (15 minutes each way). I checked out "The Help" -- the movie. I was going to watch it tonight, but instead I think I will go to bed early and read. It's looking awfully good to me.

I am so out of sync with my family. What I think is a reasonable Christmas is just cheap to them (not that they said so -- they were all gracious -- but I saw all the other gifts! Whew!) I guess I just have to adjust. I felt pretty awful during the gift openings, so next year I will just have to make more sacrifices and pony up more money for Christmas.

Now that it's over, I can report what I bought (though I don't think anyone in the family reads my blog -- but I'm not 100% sure.)

I tried very hard to find good deals at Goodwill and at retail stores, too. Here is what I finished up with:

DS1: Bocce set, College shirt, prep bowls, turkey lifter (Goodwill). Ragg socks, ear buds, $50 gas card, $10 I-tunes card (retail). Stadium blanket (free, bank promo).

DIL1: Teapot, calligraphy wall hanging, double frame set, ornament (Goodwill). Figurines for Christmas village, extra wedding pictures, silky tote bag, hand cream, gingerbread village cookie sheet, egg timer (retail).

DS2: 3 t-shirts, book, card game (Goodwill). Ragg socks, ear buds, Brita water bottle, $25 Express card, $10 I-tunes card (retail). Stadium blanket (free, won in raffle).

DIL2: Ankle weights, custard cups, ornaments (Goodwill). Gingerbread village cookie sheet, silky tote bag, hand cream, Brita water bottle, kitchen wall clock, $25 fabric store gift card, egg timer (retail). (I also gave this couple a roll of quarters for laundry.)

GS1: Board game, two mugs, Bionic lego set (Goodwill). Board game, toothbrush (retail).

GS2: Ornament (Goodwill). Talking toy, wooden puzzle with sound effects, engine for Thomas train set, toothbrush (retail).

I will also pay for a special class/activity for the boys; DIL to let me know what. I went deliberately light on the grandsons' gift; they get so, so many, from so many people who have a lot more money than I have. I feel like it's so wasteful to just add to the plethora -- and they are clearly overwhelmed by too many gifts. So I just got a few things to open.

Nephew & wife: $75 grocery store gift card. (They are unemployed)

Grand-niece 1: Mini-frames, memo pad (Goodwill). $10 I-Tunes card.

Grand-nieces 2 & 3: Assorted costume jewelry, jacks game (Goodwill). Jewelry boxes (retail).

Grand-nephew: Bag of little toys (mostly Goodwill).

Ex-husband: Bottle of wine, also wrapped up and returned some Christmas ceramics his aunt had made.

DIL2's mother: Candleholder, salt & pepper (Goodwill). Candle (retail).

DIL1's parents: Two Christmas mugs (Goodwill). Bag of coffee, assorted fancy cocoa packets (retail).

DIL1's grandfather: stuffed toy (free with purchase of greeting cards)

For work people: 2 tins (Goodwill) filled with Hershey's Bliss. Hand cream (retail), Christmas tile (regift).

I was overwhelmed with so many people to buy for, some of whom I see only once a year.

Next year I will use the Amazon gift lists, even though it doesn't feel Christmas-y to me. This was too much work for too little satisfaction.

I didn't keep track of my Christmas spending, which was a mistake -- I should at least know how much I saved! That might make me feel better! I'm sure I spent much less than anyone else, but not sure right now whether that was a good thing.

Oh yes, I got many nice gifts, too.

Gift cards totalling $175.
Tool box & tools
Fluffy throw
Knee socks
Wall clock
Stock pot
Wedding pictures
Planter
Set of jams
Coffee, tea & mug
Wine
Yankee Candle
Stocking full of sample size items

I'm sure there is more, but I'm blank right now.

I have stuck to the $20 limit on groceries for two weeks now. This week was especially challenging. I needed fish oil, and I got a good deal, 2 bottles for the price of one, $11. I also had to get two spices for the cornbread stuffing I made -- they were expensive, but luckily, both were on sale -- sage $4, and thyme $3. $2 for celery brought me up to $19, so it was no wine this week! Maybe I'll get some for Christmas.

Don't worry, I have lots of food at home. When I really start eating my way through my stockpile the $20 limit will be even more of a challenge.

I also bought $100 worth of gift cards, and Christmas shopping is DONE!

Tonight after work I head up to my sons' houses for the weekend. Only a 40-minute drive in usual traffic, but I fear tonight it will be a lot worse. I hope I can leave work early. I'm going to go home at lunch and pack my bags, and pack the car. I have a LOT of gifts. Perhaps I overdid it. I have such a hard time with Christmas, knowing where to draw the line.

I should hate Christmas anyway. My husband left me at Christmas, my mother died on Christmas Day, my brother died on New Year's Day, I broke my ankle two weeks before Christmas ... it seems like a doomed holiday for me. I still enjoy the season, but sad memories are dredged up at the same time. I'm always glad when it's over. I like the feel of a fresh start after all the stuff is packed away again.

My net worth went down by $869 this year. That's not terrible, considering I lost $5018 in the stock market. (I actually "lost" more, since my stock increased at the beginning of this year -- but that is the loss since December of last year).

That means I put away $4149 on my own. (Again, not really, because a little more than $1000 was contributed by the College to my retirement plan).

That said, I need to do a lot better. I already knew that.

I'm going to do every little thing I can. Last night, instead of letting the TV run on after the news, I turned it off, turned off all the living room lights, and went into the bedroom and read. I only got up to brush and floss (saving on those future dentist visits!)

This morning I packed a cold lunch, because the microwave at work broke down yesterday. I also packed a breakfast of cornbread, but when I arrived, there was an array of leftover food from various parties. So I will take the cornbread home to add to the rest -- I am making cornbread stuffing tonight to take to our family holiday dinner tomorrow night. I have also promised to make a sweet potato casserole, so I'm going to have a busy cooking night.

I have to stop at the store to pick up some celery and spices, and I will get the fish oil I need, too. Even though I am going to stop buying multi-vitamins, I will continue with the fish oil. I come from a family with heart problems, and I already know I have a "fat pad" on my heart, which can be an indicator for heart disease.

I will also get a few more gift cards. I had intended to order them from MyPoints and Discover, but I let too much time slip away. I will use the free cards for birthdays this year.

I took my computer to a local repair shop. He tinkered with it a bit and declared the motherboard dead. Well, something on the motherboard, but the whole thing has to be replaced on the kind of computer I have. That's $372 for the new board and labor. A little more than half what I paid in the first place.

Some would say I should have just bought a new computer, but $372 is less than I would pay for a new one, and once this one has a new motherboard it should have quite a few more years left in it -- I hope!

Anyway, it may be five days before the part gets in, so I won't have a computer till after Christmas. The only thing I'll miss is keeping up on my financial spreadsheets, but now that I know I haven't lost them, I'm quite relieved.

Yesterday we had our "Yankee Swap" at work. For a few minutes I had the good prize -- a bottle of wine. But I lost it, and decided to choose an unopened gift -- really, I wanted the gift bag; it was just the right size for a present I haven't wrapped yet. Well, I got the booby prize! "What is it?" I kept asking. It appears to be melted down bottles roughly in the shape of a bowl but with a key ring attached. ???? Needless to say, it's going in the swap next year.

Last night I was looking up a recipe online -- I went into the kitchen to make it -- came back and my screen was blank. Nothing could bring it to life again, although the computer was running.

This laptop is not very old, maybe a year and and half. It has frequently done weird things like suddenly closing down, or the screen goes blank and then the computer reboots. Always without any provocation. I've never been very thrilled with it.

So now I have to take it in for repair. I am not a DIY-er when it comes to technology. I hate to have another expense right now, but I don't want to lose all my financial info, not to mention my novel in progress. No, I don't have it backed up. I was doing that for a while on Windows Live, but it got to be a hassle. Looks like I have to revisit the concept.

Alas, I had to take $550 out of savings. This, after $600 about a week ago.

Not really for a bad reason -- I got a notice that my insurance payments will come out on January 1. I deliberately switched from monthly to semi-annual payments, so now I have to pony up and make sure the money is in checking. I must remind myself I am saving $24, because it feels kind of bad. The $550 includes the estimated booth rental, so I won't have to worry about saving cash for that. And a $25 margin for error.

At least I will be able to refurbish the account with my tax refund. And I won't have that $77 to pay every month, so that can go back into savings, too.

It hasn't been a good year for saving. I haven't done the math yet, but I know my net worth is lower than it was last year -- mostly because of the stock market, but I haven't made up the difference.

Of course, it's been a bad year for medical expenses, and I did some traveling and had a big car repair. I really hope next year will be better.

I have the whole week off next week -- the College closes, so I don't even have to take vacation time. I'm not planning to go anywhere. I hope to do some much-needed organizing at home and also use this time as sort of a retreat. I need to figure out how to do a better job of saving. Retirement is breathing down my neck.

I THINK I finished my Christmas shopping today. But it seems something else always crops up. Today I learned that my DIL's grandfather will join us for Christmas so I needed to get a little something for him. He has Alzheimer's and my son suggested that I get him a stuffed toy, as he seems to respond to them. I actually found a free one, with the purchase of four birthday cards, which I will use anyway. So that was good. I also had to buy another bag of Hershey's Bliss for my Yankee Swap gift at work -- I already had two, plus two small Christmas tins to put them in, but the two bags didn't fill the tins.

I also bought some gift cards. I added $50 to the $25 Jewel card I already had -- this will go to my out-of-work nephew. Then I bought a packet of three $10 I-tunes cards. They will go to my sons and a grand-niece.

For my BFF, whom I won't see till New Years, I bought a candle plate for the pillar candle I already had, and a Sudoku book.

Today was my first attempt at the $20 grocery limit (even though it's not the new year yet, it's a good time to start because I'm so stocked up on food). I spent $18.78, and most of it was not food.

I bought two boxes of corn muffin mix, sour cream, three fresh jalapenos (all these for jalapeno cornbread for the Christmas party at work), some coffee creamer, a bag of mixed greens, cat food and maxi-pads. I also got a free can of chicken dumpling soup with a store coupon. I wanted to get wine, but since that would have put me over the $20, I resisted.

My weekend with my grandson was exhausting! First of all, I had to give up on taking him to A Christmas Carol; he insisted he was too scared and started crying. So I finally called the box office and asked them to donate the tickets to someone who could use them. Well, he was in a negative mood all round. He didn't want to eat anything I offered, and even refused pancakes at McDonalds (where I had to drag him). He did enjoy the Play Place once we finally got there. Then I suggested we go see "ChipWrecked." No. He's seen it. (Not true, his mom told me). The only thing he could think of that he would like to do was to see Cars 2 again. I tried to get it at a RedBox, which wasn't working, but I was lucky enough to get it at the library. Unfortunately, as we watched, the images started breaking up about halfway through. I had to clean the disc twice, but finally got it good enough to go all the way through. Then he got it in his head that he wanted to play his Cars 2 video game, and that was the ONLY thing he wanted to do, and he HAD to go home. Well, it was only a few hours before the time we had set, so I took him home! Clearly, he's at a very obstinate age! (And was probably a little homesick, too.)

Today was payday. I was really surprised when I was handed my deposit slip; I totally lost a day and thought I would be paid tomorrow.

Because my Discover card was so high ($2014) I had to take $600 out of savings. Then I realized I forgot to figure in the eventual booth payment, probably around $80. And THEN I remembered I have a lot of cash in my wallet, so I really shouldn't have to transfer any more out of savings.

Last night I chopped and cooked celery, carrots, onion and potatoes for potato soup. Tonight I'll make the base and put it all together, so I just have to warm it up tomorrow when my kids arrive.

I cleaned off my coffee table and found a 2012 calendar I forgot about! This cleaning stuff certainly brings a lot of things to light!

I have the whole week off between Christmas and New Year's. This year I'm going to make it a real vacation, and by that I mean, I'm staying home! Other than Christmas Day, when I'll be at the kids'. I'm really looking forward to taking it easy and putzing around the house.

My girlfriends weekend in downtown Chicago was expensive -- as I expected.

Hotel -- $52 (1 room split three ways)
Food & drinks -- $118
Train & taxis -- $29
Shopping -- $35

Oy!

Plus, I gave a man in the train station $7 for a ticket. He said he lost his wallet and seemed credible. I realize that it may have been a lie, but I was okay with helping him out anyway, whatever his true situation.

The shopping was mostly at Crate & Barrel, for stocking stuffers. The food included tea at the Drake with champagne, a big breakfast buffet at the hotel and lunch at the Grande Lux Cafe, as well as stops at Starbucks and Argo Tea.

I saw the Marilyn statue -- again -- and had a lot of fun shopping -- not buying -- at Swarovski Crystals, Bloomingdale's and Nordstrom Rack. We also had a nice long soak in the hot tub, followed up by chocolate martinis!

It went by so fast. It was good to see my pals. We will do it again. Maybe in warmer weather next time!

Yesterday I spent $1.71 mailing the gloves that one of my friends left behind.

I had a troubling day at work yesterday. My boss was very upset, not at me, but it affected me. When I came home I had a hard time settling down, even after I got in bed. After a while I got up and started cleaning out my closet -- a project I was going to tackle over Christmas break -- but I got it all done last night, with all my nervous energy. I've made several runs to the dumpster, and tomorrow will drop off several bags at Goodwill. I have three bags of magazines -- I have to figure out who to give them to. They're too good to throw away.

You know how you find things when you're de-cluttering? When I was looking for my swimsuit I found about five bras I had put away when I gained weight -- they should fit just fine now. And while going through the magazines I found a brand new book of double acrostics I had forgotten I had. I love double acrostics -- crosswords on steroids!

On Friday my grandson is coming to stay the night so we can go see "A Christmas Carol" on Saturday morning. I've offered to feed the whole family on Friday night when they come to drop him off. I think I'm going to saute some chicken breasts, make homemade potato soup, and round out the meal with vegetables and biscuits. Fresh-baked chocolate chip cookies for dessert. I have all the makings on hand, so I can put off the grocery store till GS goes back home on Saturday.

Since everyone else is talking about 2012 goals it got me thinking, too. My overarching goal is to save as much as possible – which is a little vague. So my stretch goal is -- $700 a month. That will be quite a stretch, given that lately it’s been around $200-300.

So that means I have to change the way I’m doing things. Here’s what I’ve thought of so far.

Finally, once and for all, cancel cable (but keep internet). I plan to do this in January. I have a Roku and a Netflix streaming subscription. That is quite enough entertainment. I will miss the news, but the news is online.

Revamp my diet. Instead of buying frozen entrees, cook from scratch. Eat fresh fruits and vegetables. Eat less meat. Cut down on the desserts.

Cut out the wine. It may be good for my heart, but so is a good diet. It’s an expensive supplement.

Cut out vitamins (after I finish the bottle). The latest studies say I don’t need them, anyway.

Set a grocery spending limit. I’m thinking $20 a week. That’s aggressive, but it’s just me, and I don’t need to fill a big pantry.

Keep up with MyPoints to earn gift cards.

Complete a survey every day and do the Swagbucks poll – again, for the gift cards.

No more “new” clothes until I have to get a smaller size. (Quotes are there because I buy most clothing secondhand.)

Liquidate my antiques booth. I won’t do this until Spring when I can have a big yard sale. What doesn’t sell I will box up and auction on eBay.

Then just a few resolutions that won’t necessarily save money …

Savor the little things. I forget to do that sometimes.

Support local business. I need to stop going to McDonalds, which I don’t even like much, and go to the local eateries that are struggling to survive.

Find a form of exercise I enjoy, and do it!

Always remember I can be happy for no reason at all.

Got a few bits of extra income -- $18 from a class action settlement, $10 from Opinion Outpost, $3 from Pinecone, $3 from half.com.

Way more money went out. $144 for gifts, $9 for stamps, $49 for groceries, $6 to see a movie ("Hugo"), $5 for a prescription, $1 in the Salvation Army kettle. Still, not bad, considering the season. Some of my gifts I got at the grocery store (wine, cocoa, toys, chocolate). I spent $115 there altogether and saved $28 using coupons and store discounts. I also used a $15 voucher from Coinstar and received a $25 gift card for switching a prescription. My other gifts I got at Carson Pirie Scott, using a $10 off coupon for one purchase and a 20% off coupon for another.

I'm almost done with Christmas shopping but not feeling very satisfied. I feel anxious both for spending money AND worrying that my gifts are too cheap. I should choose one worry or the other! I have kept up with the wrapping, so I'm feeling pretty good on that score.

Oh, and I went to Goodwill and bought nothing! I had three little items to buy, but the lines were long and I decided I didn't really need anything in my basket. That may have been a first!

My spending in November:

Rent -- 1132
Utilities -- 224
Gifts -- 176
Groceries -- 163
Vacation/Travel -- 148
Furnishings/Equipment -- 130
Business -- 92
Medical/Health -- 83
Eating Out -- 78
Insurance -- 66
Gas -- 41
Entertainment -- 33
Personal -- 30
Vet/Pet Supplies -- 28
Household Supplies -- 25

Total -- 2477

I would LIKE to keep my spending under $2000, so this wasn't a good month. But it is the holiday season, and that makes a big difference.

Next month will be worse. I just learned that my car repair will cost $834. Sensor heater circuit, serpentine belt, a bunch of other things. This car is more than 10 years old and has served me very well. This is the first time I've had costly repairs, other than a brake overhaul several years ago. So I'm not upset. Repairs, at some point, are inevitable. It's just unfortunate that it happened right before Christmas! I'll have to draw from my EF next month when the Discover bill comes due.

You know, there are always those little financial chores to be done -- and so easy to put off. But today I took care of a few things.

I sent in the paperwork for my final reimbursement from FlexPro, my flexible spending account.

I made an appointment to take my car to the shop tomorrow to be checked over -- the check engine light is on. (Have my fingers crossed on that one!)

I arranged to have my friend pay the booth rental tomorrow and let me know the cost. I hate to have to ask her to do it, but the mail thing just isn't working. And they've decided to charge a $5 a day late fee. Well, it's a three-hour trip. I can hardly run down there the first of every month. Anyway....

I called Allstate and asked them to stop the monthly automatic withdrawal and make it yearly. I was getting charged a $1 fee each month -- for each policy! (I have auto and renter's).

Tonight I will get my hair cut.

Tomorrow, if I have a car, I will make a library run. I hope they can show me how to use my Kindle to borrow "books."

This weekend I will go to the box office to buy tickets for "A Christmas Carol" for my grandson and me. We won't go till the 17th but I want to be sure we have seats.

Next weekend I have my girls' weekend downtown.

Busy, busy, busy! It's not even December yet, but I already feel it rushing by.

On Monday night I met my son at an upscale pizza place for his birthday dinner. After the tip and everything it was $43. I take out each of my kids (two sons and two DIL's) for their birthday, but I think it's time to stop. Next year I will offer to cook dinner instead. As much fun as it is to go out, it adds up, and I need to be saving more.

On the way home I stopped at Goodwill just to see if they had any tissue paper or gift tags. Of course, not. What was I thinking? I need to go to the dollar store for that. But I did find two Santa's for my collection and a lovely old crock, as well as an insulated knit hat (new). Altogether $9. Funny how I ALWAYS find something at Goodwill. Sometimes I go with my sister-in-law and she often buys nothing at all. I don't know if she is more disciplined, more picky, or more well-stocked!

My Thanksgiving weekend was not as bad as I thought, financially. I spent $59 on food donated to the dinner/hosts, $43 on gas & road food, and $22 on entertainment (Puss in Boots movie with grandkids). Also that $9 I spent on clothes at the thrift shop, and I'm going to guess $5 on that fancy coffee -- didn't save the receipt. I also spent $54 on groceries for myself. (That includes the stuff I brought home that was not used at Thanksgiving). I used a lot of coupons, but only saved $14.

Tonight I'm meeting my son in Morton Grove for his birthday dinner. (This is always an expensive time of year.) I'm bringing his gifts -- a board game, a cribbage board (needless to say, he LOVES games), some fancy hair wax and pancake molds. Pancake molds, you say? He is the official pancake maker at his home and I found some Christmas shapes that will be fun on Christmas morning. The big gift is the board game. It is one of those expensive European ones. I do hope he hasn't figured out this blog and is spoiling his surprise right now!

I got home from my Thanksgiving trip last night. I haven't logged the cost of the trip yet; I'll do that tomorrow.

It was mostly a good time, but at one point my sister really hurt my feelings with a cruel "joking" comment, and it kind of ruined the weekend for me. I think she is very angry because I have tried so hard to enlighten her on the dangers of her spendthrift ways. She comes to the point of absolute financial ruin and then gets bailed out by money from her husband's family, so she decides there is no problem and she is doing fine. I can't even describe how bad she is with money. But anyway, she really skewers me with a verbal barb now and then and sometimes it really hurts. I just have to learn how to disconnect.

Today I set up and trimmed the new Christmas tree and wrapped some presents. It was nice to have a bigger tree and be able to use all my ornaments. Then I did some laundry and unpacked. I also read a lot (The Balland of Tom Dooley) and took a nap. It's been good to have a whole day at home before going back to work.

While on vacation, I went to a thrift store that was selling clothes for $1 per item (with a few exceptions). I found a really nice classic pantsuit, for which I think they charged me $2, since it was two pieces. I also bought a sweater, a sweatshirt, a turtleneck and a sleeveless top. Then I found a necklace for $2.50; it was my high-priced item.
I also supported Small Business Saturday by having fancy coffee at a local coffeehouse. I did NOT go to any Black Friday sales.

I took a lot of snacky-type food but ended up bringing a lot of it home. There was just so much food, we didn't even get to the snacks. I asked my brother to please tell me how to help, since I never seem to bring anything that gets used. He said, "Oh, just bring yourself," or something like that, but I really hate it that he takes the whole burden of the dinner on himself. I want to help, but I don't want to bring coals to Newcastle. I think next year I'll just bring a simple side dish and add it to the groaning board and just not stress out about it.

I had a fun weekend with my BFF, and got some work done in my booth, too. We ate out (Red Lobster, IHOP, McAlister's Deli) and shopped TWO Goodwill Stores (quite thoroughly, I might add). And we labeled and set out about 20 more items in the booth, and rearranged it. I checked in with the owner and found that I DID make sales the last two months, and they cut me a check. They just can't seem to handle the long-distance aspect, so I will have my friend check in personally at the beginning of each month -- or I will go myself.

Spending -- $51 on gas, $58 on food, $32 on gifts, $10 on stuff for my house, $8 on clothes and $9 on things to go into the booth.

I found some good gifts -- a bocce set for my son, new and in the box, ankle weights for my DIL, also in the box. For only .99 each I found two pairs of pants for my grandsons. My clothing finds were a long-sleeved striped t-shirt, a short-sleeved sweater and a pair of blue jean capris -- all for $8. Yay!

Tomorrow I head up north for Thanksgiving at my brother's house. I will stay with my nephew, so no hotel cost this year. I'm going to bring them some new Glad containers -- kind of joke -- I took a bunch last year taking home leftovers, so I'm replacing them with new. I will also get some snack food for the game-playing. My brother always provides way too much food, so it doesn't ever seem practical to bring more for the dinner. Maybe I'll get some sparkling cider.

I'm starting to really look forward to the family get-together. Hope all of you have a joyous Thanksgiving as well!

I had the second round of pictures taken in Radiology yesterday and I was declared just fine. That still doesn't address the tumor on my adrenal gland, but that won't be checked again till February (they are usually benign, and slow-growing). So if they're not worried, I'm not worried.

Yesterday I went into the city to see a webinar for work. We were in the building with the Marilyn Monroe statue in front. I took some pictures of one of my colleagues standing between her legs. I didn't care about having a picture of myself, but it was fun to see the statue up close and personal.

I spent $10 on lunch.

In the evening I watched a DVD from the library, The Conspirator. It's about the trial of Mary Surratt, a woman accused of complicity in the assassination of Abraham Lincoln. For any history buffs out there, it's highly recommended!

Our library charges $2 for DVD rental, but you can keep them 3 days. More costly but more convenient for me than Redbox, and I would rather give the library a little more and support their services. I would sure hate to see it close, as others have.

I had an awful night's sleep -- too much coffee, perhaps? I do love my Joe, but it's not worth that. I had some Midnite on hand, which I haven't tried yet, but for some reason I didn't get up to take it, just tossed and turned. I don't know why I do that.

This weekend I'm going to see my BFF and will also visit my booth. Tonight I have to start packing the new stuff I have bought to put in it. I know it's pretty much a lost cause, but I will stick in out till spring, when I can have a big yard sale. Then I will eBay the rest.

Well, I bought my Christmas tree, paying 5 times what I thought I would (ouch!) but I think it will prove a good investment.

Michael's new "item of the week" was their 7-ft. pre-lighted tree for $99.99, marked down from $250. It is a lovely tree, and I should never have to replace it. Well, never say never! Let me just say I think it will serve me for many years. And I like the size. A bigger tree says CHRISTMAS to me, and I need some CHRISTMAS this year.

I will share with you what I am not telling others yet -- I have to go back to the radiologist tomorrow because the mammogram showed an "area of concern." I am not too worried; I have been through this before because I am prone to cysts. However, I also have a growth on one of my adrenal glands (showed up in one of my cat scans). They assure me that it is probably benign, but they are watching it. I feel a little nervous with "areas of concern" on two fronts.

Anyway, for some reason it is making me feel very sentimental about Christmas. I can hardly wait to get that tree up. I've already been wrapping gifts, and I'm listening to Christmas music on the radio. If it snowed a little, I wouldn't mind!

Today was payday. I transferred $200 into savings, on top of the $125 which is automatic.

I also opened a new account. I was toying with the idea of an ING account, but when I got online to do research, I found that a credit union in my area has even better rates. And I was eligible, because of the city in which I work. The CU was begun for United Airlines employees but is also open to residents/employees in certain suburbs. I transferred $2000 from my money market account, which is earning nothing. I just got the email telling me to look for the welcome packet. Looking forward to earning some interest!

It was a journey for naught. I wasted a lot of gas, too, because the traffic was heavy and I took some longcuts.

There was no Christmas tree at Michaels priced at 19.99. The sale ended Thursday and I arrived on Friday. What they had was way more expensive. So with a sigh, I decided to tolerate my tiny tree another year.

I said I was going to call first, but I didn't. I went to a birthday party after work and left for Michael's from there. I didn't have the number, so I decided to just go for it.

At least I talked myself out of stopping for fast food.

On Saturday I grocery shopped at Jewel and Aldi. At Jewel I maximized coupons and at Aldi I picked up staples. Spent $92 at Jewel (saved $22) and $21 at Aldi. High, for me. I'm thinking that coupons encourage me to buy more than I really want. I am beginning to see that I am more comfortable as a minimalist than as a stockpiler. (Especially with my little pantry and top-of-the fridge freezer).

I went up north for my grandson's birthday today. I gave him some Lego kits I had bought at Goodwill -- brand new, apparently donated by a retailer. They were a hit. Then I treated for dinner with a Papa John's gift card I won at a health fair. So today I reaped the rewards of being very frugal!

I thought I should investigate new sources of revenue, so, since some of you here are fans of Swagbuck I thought I'd check it out.

I was a little dismayed last night, because it seemed I wasn't earning anything after the initial bucks for the toolbar download, etc. This morning I realized I hadn't confirmed my registration -- didn't open my email till this morning. I'll try it again this evening.

I'm supposed to go to a Trustee's birthday party today. It started at 11:11 and will go to 11:11 tonight. He is the Trustee whose dog I sometimes care for when they are on vacation. That said, I don't really know him; I have always dealt with his wife. But I was invited to the party. I will drop in sometime today. I know he would enjoy a big turnout.

Last year my grandson looked at my tiny Christmas tree and said, "I think you need a bigger tree." So today I see on the Michael's flyer that they are selling 4-foot pre-lit artificial trees for $19.99, marked down from $69.99. Plus, they have a 25% off coupon that can be used on sale items. The coupon isn't good until Friday, so I'll go down then, hoping that they still have the Christmas trees. well, I'll call first.

If I get the bigger tree, I'll bring my tiny tree into work; it'll cheer me up.

Not much other financial news. I paid a whopping $2.68 medical bill today, putting it on my FlexPro card. The medical bills are definitely tapering off. Since I put a lot of them on Discover, I still have a lean month ahead, but it's good to know the end is in sight.

I got a coupon for free milk at Aldi, so I'll get a few things there this weekend. I like Aldi, but I don't shop there often because I like to use my credit card. They only take cash or a debit card, which kind of messes up my routine.

I also have a bunch of coupons for Jewel that will expire soon. I hope that some of the items will also be on sale -- that's when I really like to use coupons!

Today the entire faculty and staff convened to talk about the College's budget. The College had a balanced budget this year only by withdrawing funds from the endowment. (Which is what it's for, but it's not a long-term solution). While we are okay this year, we need to make some changes. Admissions are down, especially in the graduate programs, and the amount we net from tuition after financial aid is subtracted is decreasing. Meanwhile, expenses continue to go up.

While the news was bad, it was really interesting to hear the VP of Finance explain it all, since I love things financial. She is trying to balance a great big budget, much as I am, only on a smaller scale. But so much is out of the College's control. You can't increase admissions just like that. You can raise tuition, but that can also discourage new admissions. You can cut salaries, but that can lead to attrition of experienced staff.

We are going to focus on new programs, more online programming, student retention and, of course, fund raising. Since I am a fund raiser, I feel the onus of responsibility. But I am not an solicitor; I do the research for the solicitors, so my ability to make a difference depends on whether they will respond to my work. That's been a problem here. They don't trust the research. Sometimes I wonder why they even have this position, but that's a dangerous thought in these times!

Despite everything, the College is budgeting for a 2% raise for faculty and staff. I believe they can do that because, with higher-paid people retiring, the increase is actually a wash.

Anyway, with any luck, I will see $68 more a paycheck in January. That's before taxes. Woo-hoo! (I'm not being sarcastic. I would have to do 22 Pine Cone surveys a month to make that.)

On the private front, I haven't spent anything since Saturday. Got notice today that half.com put $4 in my checking account. And I went to a neighboring college library last night and got a library card -- specifically so I can use their superior online databases. I'm going to use a service at work that would otherwise cost several hundred a year. See, I AM saving the College money!

I, too, had a Spendy Saturday!

It was the first time I grocery-shopped in three weeks, so I didn't try to stick to fifteen items (though I bought only 24). I decided to make this a targeted trip -- buying only items that I had a coupon for or that were on my needs list. I spent $92 and "saved" $22. I thought the savings would be better, because I had some nice coupons, but I guess there is only so much you can do.

Here is how it broke down:

Wheat bread - house brand
Honey nut cheerios- house brand
2 I Can't Believe It's Not Butter - $1 off coupon
Strawberry preserves
Pizza pan - on sale & $1 off coupon
2 lbs. ground beef
Frozen pie shells - $1 off coupon
2 packages chicken breasts, thin-sliced - BOGO
Dishwasher detergent - house brand, on sale
Cat litter - house brand, on sale
Sandwich bags - house brand, on sale
Creamer - house brand
Laundry detergent - house brand, on sale
Cocoa - house brand
Canned tomatoes - house brand, on sale
Wine, on sale
Ice cream, on sale - $1 off coupon
5 lbs. flour - free (for spending $10)
Cat chow - $1 off coupon
Bag of walnut pieces - on sale
Garbage can liners
"Eraser" cleaner
Cranberry sauce - house brand, on sale
2 14-oz. boxes raspberries - BOGO

Also got $1 off for buying 3 house brand canned goods and $1 off for buying $10 worth of house brand cleaning supplies.

I also earned 17 playing pieces for the store's promotional game. I had a lot of fun setting up the board; however no wins yet. Each piece comes with a .25 coupon for the store's house brand items, so that was nice. Some I will use, some not.

I also bought gas - $33 - and I went to the Hallmark store and bought an ornament with a $5 off coupon -- so it was $15. Last year I bought ornaments representing the outfits my grandsons wore for Halloween and it was a big hit. So I'm doing the same this year. Captain America was pretty easy. I had to go to eBay for The Flash. That was a little cheaper, though, $11, free shipping.

As if I hadn't spent enough, I went to Goodwill. Still looking for corduroy pants; still not finding them. I DID find a beautiful Lands End ski sweater for $5, two new frames for $4, 2 super-cute Portugese cups for $1, a new Legos canister for $3 and a necklace for $1. All together it was $16. I can't fault that. The sweater alone would retail for at least $50 -- I think. I'm out of touch with retail. It would probably be more.

Came home and made chili, and this morning I'm making spaghetti sauce. I have yet to decide what to do with the chicken -- I will probably freeze it, since there is already so much to eat.

My son's wedding pictures finally came. I had ordered three copies of a good picture of me, my sister, and my best friend. I put two of them in the frames I got at Goodwill and I will give them as birthday presents. I already had frames for the big wedding pictures (and they are already on display), and the small ones are going in a book.

I am so glad to have all these things done. It was a productive day.

In October, my total was average despite high medical bills and a vet bill. Here is how it went:

Rent: 1132
Medical/Health: 539
Utilities: 171
Vet/Pet Supplies: 148
Business: 98
Groceries: 97
Gifts/Charity: 70
Insurance: 66
Gas: 56
Eating Out: 37
Furnishings/Equipment: 34
Household Supplies: 22
Entertainment: 8

Total: 2480

Last night I met my son and his family in Des Plaines to pick up my phone. I contributed $20 to the meal at a Hungarian restaurant.

Yesterday we had a health fair at work. Not only did I get a free lunch (sub sandwich, banana, Sun Chips), but I also won a stadium blanket!

Last night I did a second-round Pinecone survey that paid $10.

I'm considering opening an ING savings account, though I am old enough that the idea of an online savings account kind of freaks me. But now that I have a decent chunk of money, I'd like for it to earn SOME interest, however small. But it has to be accessible, too. It is my emergency fund.

Gotta run to work!

I babysat my grandsons on Friday and Saturday. Their mom & dad were home both nights, but I stayed overnight because they wanted to do some late nights as well as run a marathon on Saturday morning. The boys are just at the ages, 4 and 2, where they are fun but a LOT of work. Add to that I didn't sleep well on my Aerobed and it made for an exhausting weekend. Still, I was happy to do it and there were many precious moments.

My son paid back my loan to him, so I am feeling much better about my savings. I knew it would be soon but didn't expect it this weekend.

My only spending was $4.97 for a McDonalds meal on the way there. It turned out I got there in time to have supper with them, but you never know with Friday night traffic in the Chicago metro area. I took along a shepherd's pie to have on Saturday, which was a big flop with the boys. There was about half left, which I meant to bring home for lunches, but forgot. Maybe my DIL will find it, and at least the grownups can enjoy it. It was delicious! But as my grandson, said, "ALL THAT FOOD ALL MIXED TOGETHER! UGH"

I also left my phone there! Oh well, I'm not much of a phone-talker, and most everyone who knows me will email me or call me at work if they're really trying to get hold of me. I guess I will meet my son in the middle some time this week to get it back.

The girls' weekend downtown is on. One of my friends booked a room at the Marriot for $129 and we will share. Tomorrow I'll see if I can book tea at the Drake Hotel, though it's doubtful this late in the season.

I just baked some brownie bites for the Halloween party at work tomorrow. As long as they come out of the pan okay after cooling, all went well. I made Parker brownies from the Fanny Farmer cookbook. They are extra rich, very yummy.

I'm supposed to wear a "funny hat" to the party tomorrow to compete for prizes. I don't really have any funny hats and I'm not going to buy one, so I think I'll take my baseball hat from Cheers, just to show them I'm in the spirit.

Paid another medical bill - $62. On the BCBS website there are quite a few hanging out there, but many are showing $0 owed. Maybe I've finally hit the cap. I still have $29 in my FSA, so I need to figure out how to use that.

Our girls' weekend in Chicago is falling apart. I sent the other two the info about the Groupon for $100 at the Allerton. One said she wanted to check with her son, who could get a family rate at Sofitel. By the time she responded that his rate was higher, the Groupon was sold out. Now the other is suggesting the Sheraton for $143. No response from the Sofitel mom. I'm frustrated. I found a great deal and they blew it! I should learn to just be more bossy.

This weekend I'm baby-sitting for my grandsons. I'll go up there tonight; then Mom & Dad will leave in the morning and will return on Sunday. In the late afternoon we will trick or treat. I'm looking forward to it, but a little cautious. I am still not completely recovered. I'm tired, and still sore in the belly. But I promised, and I will do it.

I thawed a shepherd's pie this week which was given to me while I was sick. I thought it would thaw faster than it did. It's now ready to cook, so I'll take it with me. Not sure the boys will eat it, but I'll give it a try.

Lots of expenses coming up -- the girls' weekend, Thanksgiving (always involves travel & food gifts), two birthdays, Christmas, of course. I usually go to Florida in January or February; I stay with my cousin but the real reason is to see my elderly aunt & uncle. I'm always afraid this time will be the last time. They are the only people left in that generation of my family, and they are special, besides. But I just hate to spend the money when my retirement is looming so near. It's either airfare & car rental, or a long trip with a hotel stay and food stops. Wish these decisions were easier!

Yesterday I sent my booth rental -- $83.50 -- for September. Since October is almost over and I still haven't received a sales report, I am assuming that nothing sold in September. It seems they can't do a sales report when nothing sells, although my previous "landlord" could. I tried repeatedly to call them, but they didn't answer, and their voicemail was full. I am sensing big trouble. I may have to go down there on a moment's notice and get my stuff out. Sigh. This was supposed to be the solution.

If I have to pull out my stuff, I think I will try selling on eBay and then have a big yard sale in the Spring. I need to plug this leak, no matter how much fun it is to find the treasures in the first place.

Last night I couldn't sleep, so I got up and did online surveys. I can spend a good deal of time on Outpost(?) and never get to an actual survey. I am not a demographic that anyone is very interested in. And I don't buy much of anything. I'm really just trying to get enough done so that I can get a check; then I'll let that one go. I like Pinecone better; I know I will get $3 for the time spent, and it comes to Paypal like clockwork.

Yesterday I got a groupon for a reduced rate at the Allerton downtown. I forwarded to my friends who want to do the girls' weekend. One said we should talk about dates, the other just said "count me in!" I don't know whether to go ahead and get the deal. It will go away soon. Hopefully, I will get more input today.

I think I can do another grocery "skip" this weekend. I am going to my son's on Friday night and will babysit there all weekend. I've got lots of food. All I really need on my list is cat litter.

No more purging -- I'm too tired at night to even think about it. But I will try to be more mindful of it, a little at a time.

As I'm logging in, I'm thinking, I really don't have anything to say.

I'm in one of those phases where it feels like nothing is happening financially. Or at least nothing good.

My net worth is down by $10,000, mostly due to the drop in the stock market and an outstanding loan to my son.

My money keeps trickling out for medical bills, although it seems they are finally slowing down. I haven't been able to put anything in savings, other than the $125 that goes in automatically.

I'm just kind of stalled.

I have to concentrate on the little things.

Like, even though I've been pretty bad on my diet, I haven't gained weight!

And, my Christmas cactus is starting to bloom.

And, I've gotten a good parking space all week so far!

And, I made some awesome chicken salad last night and I get to finish it up for lunch today! And tonight I'm going to make a broccoli-pasta-cheese dish that I'm sure will be awesome and very cheap!

And, while decluttering, I found a necklace I have loved for years, and I'm wearing it today!

Life is good.