100 Things Challenge - Expanded

Well, for this week anyhow.  Our funds (like many others) are strapped a bit.  As a result, we became serious about budgeting earlier this year.  I do the grocery shopping each week- a task I absolutely look forward to.  I think it's because I get to spend money, sick, I know.  My funds are nothing like they used to be.  The main difference being: I used to work.  I used to have money.  Now we are reduced to sharing one income, a reduction I take on joyfully because the opposing life is one where I don't get to see my baby all day, everyday.  Wow, I feel emotional just considering that option.  I am extremely fortunate to be a mom who stays home!  I sometimes fight off guilt, "aren't I supposed to hate my job?" because I don't.  I am doing the one thing I never knew I wanted to do (when I was little I used to say that I wanted to train white tigers when I grew up) and I am supremely happy to have this "job".

Anyway, my weekly budget for groceries doesn't include buying for a party (go figure).  However, every year we host a New Year's Eve party at our house.  So where is this money gonna come from?  All the pennies that come in have a destination: co-pays, insurance, rent, utilities, you get the idea.  No budget for "partying".  Time to get creative!  This week's grocery budget has offered to give selflessly to the cause, and I have a plan.
My pantry is well stocked.  I hardly touch the canned items and boxed rice mixes.  They are just my back-up foods.  Until now.  This week's mission: eat the pantry. 

 

I am certain we can pull it off.  I'm actually kind of excited to take this on.  It'll be a challenge to satisfy my creative urges too.  "I have cool whip, rice, and peanut butter.....how can I make this into dinner?"  I'm reserving a fifth of the budget to buy produce at the farmer's market on Tuesday, and the rest will go toward the fun-fund.  I can't wait to spend it!  I see that I have an affinity for giving my money to others in exchange for "things".  I love it.  I hate that I love it.  Having a budget, however, gives me permission to spend.  So the fun-fund will be lovingly spent on streamers, balloons, beverages, snacks and other such festivities.  All I can say is: YAY!