I had a very unpleasant experience last month: I ran out of money before my paycheck came. The main culprit was my planned renovation of the master bathroom. I've been gathering all sorts of items to redecorate, plus I got some cool new art for the rest of the house, and a few other items. Even getting some great deals, it all added up to Continue Reading
Of happy hours, tile places and yet more auctions: A spending diary
This post contains an affiliate link. I may be compensated for purchases made though the link. For those who are new, my style of "spending" is a little convoluted. I have two checking accounts. I keep the majority of my money in the secondary account, transferring $250 a week into the main account. But I charge everything to the card to Continue Reading
Of haircuts, massages & more auction scores: A spending diary
For those who are new, my style of "spending" is a little convoluted. I have two checking accounts. I keep the majority of my money in the secondary account, transferring $250 a week into the main account. But I charge everything to the card to maximize rewards. As charges accrue, I transfer money out of the main account into the secondary one. Continue Reading
7 tips for getting good deals on Craiglist, OfferUp, etc. (Also, my amusing tale of woe)
Secondary marketplaces like Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace and OfferUp can be great places to save money on furniture, home improvement and more. But while they offer have a wealth of great deals, they can also be mini-nightmares -- or at least quagmires that keep you up and searching long after bedtime. Not that I'd know anything about that. Continue Reading
Of art, takeout and PAIN: A spending diary
For those who are new, my style of "spending" is a little convoluted. I have two checking accounts. I keep the majority of my money in the secondary account, transferring $250 a week into the main account. But I charge everything to the card to maximize rewards. As charges accrue, I transfer money out of the main account into the secondary one. Continue Reading
September spending report: The “ouch” edition
Okay, I'm a little behind here, given that my financial month ended, uh, in the middle of last month. But better late than never, right? Right?! So let's see how I did... CategoryProjectedActual DifferenceHome55048070Healthcare700723.01*-23.01Gas100101.05-1.05Laundry17.521*-3.5Pet5055.11*-5.11Going Continue Reading