My company is in the process of a major reorganization and we were hit today with a major restructure. I have to reapply for my job. The one I have held for 15 years. If I get my job back, the benefits and pay rate will change. I don't have any information yet. It's unsettling not knowing if I will have a job that will keep my salary to cut to save money.

Needless to say, I worried. I am wired and don't forsee much sleep tonight (or weekend for that matter).

Trying to keep positive thoughts during this uneasy time.

#1 Another e-bay sale $48.
#2 The most significant...my IRA reached a new high today. So excited! YAY!

I've been furniture shopping with a friend this weekend. We've been to Thrift stores and shopping Craigslist and found some amazing deals. A lot of the furniture is high end. Most people are moving and don't have room or they are moving long distance and the expense to transport is too high. It's also been fun, meeting different people and getting to know a little slice of their lives. Everyone has been super nice. A lot of people talk about craigslist nightmares but we've been fortunate. The rule is bring someone with you and visit during the day (mornings/early afternoons preferred).

So far, my friend purchased a lovely solid wood with iron accents dining room table and 4 chairs in excellent condition for $150.

Recycle/reuse.

I make my own almond milk because I cannot stand the additives in commercial brands. I repurpose the almond pulp into delicious healthy muffins. I dry the almond pulp in the over at low temp for about an hour or so and then pulse it in the food processor into a flour like consistency. It doesn't have to be perfect. I mix in ground flax seed, over ripened banana, peanut butter, egg whites and to top it off, a few dark chocolate bits. Seriously addicting. I make triple batches and freeze. They don't last long in this household. It's uber healthy and full of protein.

Another e-bay sale $48.00. 98% of the items listed were free to me.

$200 saving in coupons and retail vs sale prices. I'm running a tally every month to deposit into my savings.

$65 doing a project myself instead of hiring someone to do it for me. I took a good look at the problem and discovered I could fix it myself.

2014 is my biggest challenge. All of my extra income and savings will go to the principal on my mortgage. A lump sum will be paid yearly(easier to track payoff amount and date).

My car will be paid off in 9 months. Looking forward to that payment going to the mortgage as well.

I ran out of coffee (which is unheard of in this household ). I walked to Starbucks to purchase two bags of coffee. I like to create my own 50/50 half decaf/half caffeine mixture. Starbucks is not my favorite coffee but I made it work because I have a gift card. My coffee was free and will last at least 2 months.

I went to Target to purchase a few things for Superbowl (crackers, water and nuts). Total cost $3.00 because I had a $20.00 gift card.

Gift cards help in lean times as long as you can put them to use. If I receive clothing store gift card, I'd re-gift it. I honestly only want cards for the things I need (grocery, Target, Pet Store), etc.

Have a wonderful day!

My IRA mutual fund is down for the week. I took this opportunity to contribute 3K for 2014. Feeling good!

I'm feeling the pinch first day of the month. My decision to practice extreme frugalism for maximum savings is tough but I will benefit in the long run.

My best deal of the day is two large containers of organic beefsteak tomatoes for $2.49. Caprice salads for the next few days. No complaints here, I love them.