Eating Our Paycheck

Friday, March 25, 2011

Well, we have definitely blown our budget on going out to eat this month.  On Wednesday night, we met some out-of-town relatives at a restaurant half-way between our homes.  It was a nice visit, but the bill ran a little higher than we expected.  Even with a coupon I found online, dinner for two was still $45, including tip.  Tonight is the Eagle Scout banquet, which will be enjoyable and one of those milestone events you really shouldn’t miss.  It’s funny how  going out twice in one week makes you want to continue the practice--- an expensive habit to allow yourself to adopt.  I guess I won’t be paying off Visa this week, either, unless our state tax refund shows up. 

Income      $169.54 part-time paycheck

Expenses:  $ 36.92 class supplies/Struggle, Jr.

                      53.93 groceries and personal care

                      55.00 1/2 graduation fees

The food bill has been a lot higher this month, but it was spring break and two of the kids were home from college.  I also packed up some snacks and other items to send back with them to their dorms.  Struggle Jr. especially, will get busy and not take time to eat if there’s nothing handy.  He is a bit thin and could stand to gain a little weight, so I don’t worry about giving him extra snack foods.

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The personal care items included $20 for a mouth guard for Mr. Struggle, as recommended by our dentist.  We have both been grinding our teeth, undoubtedly from stress!  If this seems to work, I'll buy one for myself soon. 

          

The $55.00 was for half of Ms. S2’s graduation fees, cap and gown, etc.  She has a part-time job and  we feel it is good for her to pay for part of her expenses.  She has decided against buying a class ring due to the high cost, and the fact that she doesn't think she would wear it often.  We aren't even sending out announcements, since we had a big party for high school graduation and don't want to make a big fuss.

How often do you eat out, and how does it impact your budget?