We've been living on cash (with success for the past almost two weeks), but I've got the "uh-oh" I only have one $20 bill left realization. I can't complain too much because more money comes our way on Friday when the tenant pays her rent in cash.

I need to buy milk and am realizing that I'll have to make some food item decisions before I get to the store. This will mean having to wait until Friday to take advantage of Jewel's "buy 6, get these items for $1.99" (Kellogg's Frosted Flakes, fuit snacks, rice krispy treats, etc) and I've got coupons that correspond nicely with those deals.

I don't want to have to break into my own "keep the change" program - I'm up to $12 already in change and plan on using that to fund the new vacation account.

DS turned 9 yesterday. He had a rough afternoon when he got home, when he is tired he doesn't always handle his crankies very well, especially with bothersome little brothers. He did perk up for malts from Steak N Shake (used coupons) and singing the birthday song and wearing the birthday hat. We bought him a laptop (Acer brand on sale at Target for $249 in addition to a $50 gift card) for school/recreation. Of course, everyone now wants their own for birthdays/Christmas. I'll have to get hopping on finding free money (TCF as a $100 credit deal if you open an account - no direct deposit required - and make 10 transactions) I have $110 in Target gift cards, and there is another $50 option if I sign up with an alternative Com Ed supplier -

Have a good day!