Off course

This month hasn't been so good with finances. We aren't spending money like we used to, but with the holidays it seems that a lot of unexpected things keep popping up. Especially last night.


My husband went out to dinner with his department. It's only 6 people (including him) and it was one of those things where you "had" to go. They went to a fancy restaurant and he only got a caesar salad and coffee, because he didn't want to spend a lot of money.


Last time his department went out everyone figured out what they owed for their meal and that's what they paid. Before the night of the dinner, it was agreed that this time would be the same thing. Yet, when the bill came for over $200 everyone - including my husband - had to pay $40. He was livid, but there was nothing he could do but pay. His boss was there and the rest were important people that he works with. Sometimes you have to keep up appearances.


Everyone got drinks, a big entree and desserts, but my huband ending up paying for it. He also had to get a pollyanna gift that was decided without my husband's prior knowledge and it was $15, plus we had to get a gift bag for it. Then he had to put in $15 for his boss's gift and now we have 13 more gifts to give his other coworkers. I am making chocolate dipped apples with peppermint pieces, I will update with more details when I make them.


To make things worse, our driver's side headlight on our Vibe is out and needs to be fixed. This January the car needs to go in for inspection as well, so there's going to be a lot of auto expenses. I have been making a lot of gifts so I haven't had time to make pads or make money online. I am still getting a very small amount of income from Cash Crate and a few rebate checks have been coming in the mail as well.


I really hope to start fresh in 2008. I am a person who believes in New Year's resolutions and everyone needs a new start. I plan to attack our debt just as soon as things get back to normal. I vow that next year I will be even more organized for the holidays. I always start late when making gifts but I am going to be making them throughout the year so I'm not in a mad dash to get as many done as I can in November and December.


At this point I am anxious for the holidays to be over and for the New Year to start!