"May you LIVE all the days of your life" - J. Swift

Tuesday, September 23, 2008

A quarter, a nickel, and two pennies

Back in 2000-2002 I lived in the white house. Not the one in D.C., the one in Provo, UT. It was so titled because it was white... outside and in. White siding, white carpet, white tile, white cupboards, white walls.... WHITE. My time in the white house was awesome largely due to the amazing roommates I had there. One was Stephanie, and she taught 2nd grade at the time. She would explain to her students how old they were monetarily, in coins. So, when they were 7 years old, they were a nickel and two pennies, on their 8th birthday they were a nickel and three pennies. I turned 25 when I was there and she excitedly exclaimed "You're a quarter!" The sad aftermath is that every birthday since I've pointed out to myself how old I am in coins. Today I turned a quarter, a nickel, and two pennies. Not worth much... but it's a good life just the same.

It has been a very fun birthday so far, beginning with my roommates making an awesome breakfast for me, and then going to Red Robin for lunch (I love those fries, the bleu burger, and that birthday mud pie!), and I've received many happy birthday wishes, largely due to what apparently must be a birthday reminder on facebook (I'm going to have to sign up for that one). So, thanks everyone, for helping me to have such a great day. I don't expect much out of birthdays at this stage in life, so it's been a pleasant surprise to have such a good one.

Sunday, September 7, 2008

Spending habits

I'm guessing that most people who know me and my spending habits consider me frugal and a bit of a saver (translation: cheap). I think they're right. Oh, but I do prefer the word frugal over cheap because really... I don't buy or like cheap stuff, I just save and don't buy anything until I can find something of the quality worth the money they're charging... AND it has to be a good deal.

Well, I just went through a few months of really being low on money and not purchasing much beyond the necessities because of 1) not receiving as much rent money because a roommate moved out, and 2) yardwork, high water bills, and other related summer expenses. So on August 1st I got a new roommate and a raise at work, and now that I'm starting to see that bit of additional money I've gone a little wild this week. I bought an eliptical machine (at below the retailer's cost though), ski boots (which, incidentally were only $9, regularly $385), and a Nintendo wii & wii fit (regular price... how did that happen? :( ), among other items.

Most people that know me are probably a little concerned right now. That's not typical behavior for me. But I assure you I'm doing all right, and I am well committed to going on a spending diet starting now! Really, I have nothing left to buy... I just got it all.