We are what, a third of the way through the month? So far I am doing well tracking all of my expenses even though some of the numbers are a little surprising. For example, going out to eat or for drinks has cost three times what I have spent on groceries so far. Some of that going out is laziness or being social, but when I looked more closely at the receipts I noticed something else. Often I am going out for ethnic food which I do not know how to make at home and a number of the ingredients used are not found in standard grocery stores. There are tons of specialty grocery stores around, but perhaps I am wrongfully assuming they are more expensive.
Skipping ethnic food completely is not an option, so I have been researching dishes that can be made in a crock pot to hopefully save time and money. Of course I have to buy a new crock pot since mine broke awhile ago and I did not have the funds to replace it. Recipe searching has actually been a lot harder than I expected. Do the makers of ethnic food not think using a crock pot is a good idea? So far I have found a few Mexican and Indian recipes, but not many Ethiopian or Moroccan ones. That is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to cuisine I eat too. Regardless this is worth a try and I do actually miss cooking.
Other observations? This was the first month I paid rent in full and on time in I have no idea how long. Before I was so underpaid that I was dividing my rent over a few checks which meant getting a 3-day notice each month even though the landlord was aware of my situation and said it was ok to make payments. The notice was really for their documentation in case I did not make all my payments and actually needed to be given an eviction notice. Paying rent in full and on time should not be a problem going forward, YAY!
I also wanted to get my hair done last week and decided to try a local beauty school. It took a little longer since the students had to stop for instructor assistance, but overall I paid half of what I would have at a regular salon and they did an excellent job. They also do manicures and pedicures for far less than I pay elsewhere. I can see myself returning, but I do not think I would do something that required any kind of chemicals like coloring since you do not have the same recourse you do at a regular salon.
Perceptions and Progress
December 14th, 2014 at 07:45 pm
December 14th, 2014 at 08:58 pm 1418590705
You can easily,simply adjust nearly any recipe to crockpot unless it requires a 'crisp' exterior. Reduce liquid and boost spices, milk/cream is usually added near the end as it can curdle but check on-line. Phone any nearby Goodwill or Thrift store and ask, as they usually have some type of CP very cheap. If cooking small batches, those cheap, small Rival type units suffice. Best thing is the cheapest cuts of meat benefit from braising and a TBP of vinegar or wine makes it even better.
Ethnic food stores are often less expensive than the big chains for vegetables and spices. Guess it depends on the area. Dried beans, lentils need one extra step but just soak/CP overnight.
December 14th, 2014 at 09:24 pm 1418592266
December 14th, 2014 at 09:59 pm 1418594354
Actually this is the best link as it is to her free stuff: http://crockpot365.blogspot.com/2009/01/2008-flashback-entire-year-in-order.html
December 14th, 2014 at 11:21 pm 1418599269
December 15th, 2014 at 12:02 am 1418601775
Fried rice I can possibly do on my own, but egg foo young??? Maybe ..
Good job on tracking and seeing where your money is going!
December 15th, 2014 at 12:52 am 1418604749
December 15th, 2014 at 01:21 am 1418606466