Economy Of Means

My Top 3

It’s been quite a month.

I voted. I wrote 50,000 words (around 100 pages) and Won National Novel Writing Month. I learned that my first pop-up book won Best Pop-Up at the 2009 NY Book Show, and Best in Show. I went to Florida. I survived a huge company-wide layoff. I learned how to steam an artichoke. I went to a concert, and to Momofuku Ko- finally. I attended 3 work-related holiday parties. I reached my Goal Weight with Sparkpeople.com.

It’s gotten colder, practically bitter out. It’s made me rethink the wisdom of shedding 10 lbs right before the holidays. Everywhere I go, I’m freezing. The Genie has been joking I should wear another layer of clothes to replace the fat I’m missing. I laugh. I shiver. I can’t tell the difference between the two.

It’s been a lean time in other ways, too. The economy has sucked, and with layoffs hitting too close to home, I’ve been re-examining my finances. I’m intentionally carrying a credit-card balance (for the first time in my life), because I have to preserve my savings account. I’m sticking to a regimented budget. I’ve discovered the joys of eating vegetables- namely potatoes, for dinner.

I’m working hard to stick to a Christmas budget, too this year. For the first time in a very long time, I will only give family members 1 gift apiece. I used to spend a lot on family because I usually receive a lot from them. This year, I am taking pride in humility. And, I am recognizing the fact that I’m not in the same income bracket as most of them, and they will love me no matter how fancy my gifts are.

I’m also starting to become turned off by overpriced dinners out, and I’m becoming a bigger proponent of cheap dinners in. I thank Ko for this. For months, I worked to snag a reservation online there. Even as the prix-fixe cost rose- I was determined. When I got one, I rejoiced. After the meal, my stomach actually hurt. We paid $450 (more than either the Genie, who is recently unemployed, or I could actually afford) for more food than I could ever eat. It was that moment I realized the pains and meaninglessness of excess, and the limits to the joy that big spending brings.

I’m returning to basics. And with that decision, the time with my mom in Florida came perfectly timed. She is the master of making a dollar last a week. With my knack for finding cheap (but fresh) local spots, and her economy, I reached a balance that I hope to sustain for the next year, through these rough times.

Along with that balance, I’ve found a balance with diet and exercise too. It might be a little early to declare victory, but I’ve found a rhythm that works for me. I’m below my high school weight, and my body fat percentage could astound you. This is a huge relief. I don’t want to preach. Well, I do, but I won’t. Sparkpeople. I’m telling you.

Tag: sparkpeople