This September I am having a low spend month. I'm allocating $100 to food, $70 to gas and $125 to medical. That's it. No frivolous spending.

I am blessed with friends that share my philosophy of sharing. I want to repaint my bedroom (for the 10th time). A friend has numerous half gallons of paint in the color pallet I have chosen for the room. I will blend the paints to create my unique color. I have had great success in the past.

This friend only uses the highest quality paint so I only have to use one coat! YAY! Let's hope this is the last paint job

I occasionally sell items on EBay. Most have been successful. The last sale was a bust. I miscalculated shipping costs. I spent a over a half hour at the post office waiting in line. I usually calculate the shipping cost on line but the package was odd shaped and I couldn't get an accurate cost. I literally spent a half hour to make a $1.5 net.

Lesson learned! OY!

We have Fresh n Easy markets in my part of the country. Most people love it or hate it. I am one of those who love it (along with Trader Joe's and Sprouts Market). For the past six weeks, I have shopped the market exclusively used a store coupon for $5 off a $20 purchase. If you plan well, it can really work to your advantage.

For instance, they have a clearance section for items with a sale by date for that day. I don't buy the refrigerated items but I do buy the produce and bread.
I have purchased organic tomatoes, pears, apples, plums, oranges, breads etc. for pennies on the dollar. It's all about timing. I've shopped there enough to know what time to go and when they have the most clearance items.

It's really been a godsend over the past few weeks given my financial setback. I also love the challenge. I am living on $25-30 a week (including pet food).

I found $10 cash and receive a free $10 gift card from a merchant today. YAY!