December 16-Jingle in my Pocket

     

     December most definitely isn't a month of thrift in the money department. Time wise I spent more doing things I hope others will enjoy. Because waste just seems to happen with  more packaging, more wrappers, I need to reduce waste in other areas to save resources. Here's my dull list of how this week went.

• Arrived plenty early to the concert so had a good parking spot, plus found a bench that my MIL could sit on before they opened doors for the concert itself. This was a big deal as she has a hard time standing in place for longer than a few minutes. She does not need a walker as moving she does pretty well-it's stairs and standing that cause her pain. Eventually I see her using the type of walker my mom had that had a built in little seat that could fold down; it was so helpful getting my mom out and about more often because we didn't have to worry about finding an open chair. I won't be the one to suggest this though! -Time
• Brought home leftovers after the post -concert late meal for lunch the next day-Resource and Money
• I used a chunk of the Target gift cards I earned towards a gift for my son sent directly to him, with free shopping. Money
• I cleaned out the refrigerator, and made notice of things to use up, and what needs replacing. Space is a premium so I'm trying t use up what we have. Time and Resource
• Found all the clearance stocking stuffer/teacher gift packets I bought last year. Tonight these will be bundled for Christmas Eve. Honestly, we never know how many of the great nieces and nephews will come, but we've been trying to have  games for amusement. Time, Money
• Used Aldi to get low cost treat making supplies. (I hardly say baking anymore!) Money
• Made lasagna and got supper and two lunches from it. Taco Tuesday provided dinner and another two lunches for both of us. Time, Resource, Money
• I was unhappy with how our recycling bin was working in my kitchen so I did a clear and set it up differently. Now I don't have a loose bag and it worked really well to take the  large bucket insert out and just dump into the recycle bin before the weekly pick-up. Resource
• I'm trying to use  bits of time to tackle things that need to get done, thus cutting down using up this whole weekend.  I used part of Tuesday night  to make treats. I got the last of my mailed cards done last night while reheating lasagna-DH is dropping them off now, along with stopping at his moms with a small plate for her to use for friend meetup she has later today. Time
• I figured out what to do with my younger daughters "main" gift. She wants a really good quality pair of hiking boots. These are hard to buy for someone else, so I'm going to wrap up an old clunky boot (stuffing with fabric softener sheets so it doesn't smell) with a card noting I'll take her shopping for them. (Two years ago when my older daughter has an idea for a really good back pack, she sent me the link I like practical!) ??? Time I guess-saving me mental energy figuring out how to manage this gift. 
• As both of us met our 401 K deferred comp for the year, and surprisingly, DH had a good November, we were able to make a bigger transfer to savings than we thought we would. Money
• I had planned to buy a few articles of clothing after the new year, but since our office return is deferred likely until April, I made the choice to skip, and directed those funds towards one of our end of year donations. We'll get the tax benefit by making the donation now. What's the point of having clothes hang in a closet? I'm certainly not going to dress in  a suit while in front of a video screen. I also will hold off on replacing my black ankle boots, and maybe buy this spring for next fall on clearance. Mine have a couple dozen wears left, enough for the few office visits and outings I'll have before spring. Resource, Money
• With that decision, I can officially say I met my "no new store bought clothing" challenge other than the two dresses I bought for weddings last May. I haven't even worn the thrifted outfit from August shopping with my girls! Resource, Money
• I downloaded a free step tracker on my phone. Now, I don't carry my phone around in the house, but it will be nice to have when I take my intentional walks and challenge myself. I hate things on my wrist so a FitBit or something like that would be a waste. I did the one from Rowh Fitness Time
• Speaking of long walks, I got a group of friends and I reserved for a January 15th Nature Center and Brewery Hike and Sip event. It costs $30, but we get a  flight of beers to try after the hike, and proceeds go to the nature center, which is a free opportunity for the community 52 weeks a year. Time
• I also got my cortisone shot scheduled for January 7th-so should be in less pain before the hike. I could have been going in for this but I've been hesitant going into medical facilities unless a real need. It's to the need stage-and I wish I would have been able to get in before Christmas. Time

     I've got a few days of hectic stuff for work before next week when so many things will wind down as schools go on break and colleagues take vacation. I better get back on task, though I've already had two meetings, and completed a report. I hope you had some good saves of time, resources, and money this week.