Well, it’s been about five months and I’m as broke as ever. For any newcomers, I started this blog as a class project and am reinstating it for fun and to keep myself on my monetary toes. Summer usually entails financial instability for me with all its tempting costly activities but this time it’s slightly worse.
1) I decided to stay in Harrisonburg for the summer instead of returning to my home in Stafford. The underlying problem here is food. I’ve gone all school year with a meal plan and the luxury of generous roommates who know how to cook and share leftovers. Now both are gone and I don’t have the usual summer assurance of parents’ groceries. I’m ashamed to admit this, but I ate fast food four days last week. It’s cheap and quick. However, I recognize that in the long run “cheap and quick” might take its toll on my health (getting sick to my stomach by the end of the week might of had something to do with this revelation).
Goal #1: Learn how to eat healthily and spend little at the same time. Possibly even learn how to cook.
2) This is the first summer I don’t have a secured job. I’ve worked at Applebee’s since I was 16 and I’ve returned there every summer when I’m home. A new summer residence equals a new summer job. I’ve inquired some ads on Craigslist but haven’t had much luck so I’m going to attempt the shotgun approach at the end of the week and apply EVERYWHERE around Harrisonburg.
Goal #2: Get a job, no matter how degrading it might be. Beggars can’t be choosers.
3) Gas prices are shooting back up. I guess this is good because it signals that the economy is improving but at the same time, I’m not ready to sell my soul for gas again. I had my heart set on taking a road trip too but at this rate, it’s not likely.
Goal #3: Start biking, running, walking places I normally drive.
4) I’m 21. No explanation needed.
Goal #4: Don’t drink.
A brief outline on how I plan on saving this summer. Summer has just begun so there will be more to add as life inevitably becomes more financially difficult.
-Tina
