chugging along

Aside from the first-date blues and a busy workweek, life’s been pretty good lately. Probably any one of these things could be individual posts, but, for the sake of time, I’m lumping them together: First off, I’m happy with my budgeting software (thanks to everyone who offered input!). I was pleased to find that most programs offer free trials, so I experimented with a couple before landing on the right one for me. Right now at least, I’m using Budget. I like allocating my money pre-spending. It makes me feel free to spend, rather than scared to spend.

I saw No Reservations this morning, for only $5. My local theater offers the discounted rate before noon, even on Saturdays! Good thing, because aside from the inspiring food and envy-producing real estate of the main character, the movie was altogether predictable and cheesy.

The Boston plans continue. We’ve managed to book three nights in hotels and our airfare for a total of $91 each. My brother’s scoped out restaurants and sites to visit: we’re making the rounds downtown, at Harvard and at some other places. I love that he has the time to plan it, and I love that it’s only five weeks away.

Work’s busy, but good. I’ve officially hired two assistants, and they’re starting next week. (Yet another new experience for this novice manager.) I’m leading a team of a few dozen freelancers, and that’s already come with its fair share of heartache. Freelancer K, for example, has a lot of experience and has connections in the company. She was the first one I set up to use. K’s writing is fine, but her personality is hard to handle. For one small $20 assignment, she called/e-mailed me five times. She has since left me voicemails with “Hi. This is K. Give me a call.” This week, she got through to me and demanded to know why I’m not using her. The woman is pushy, assertive and obnoxious. My boss told me to stop using her; he says I need to toughen up, and he’s right, I know. But K tells me about her financial problems and how her son just had surgery. Then she has her friend call another manager to put in a good word. Drama, drama, drama.

Overall, I’m happy. Work’s good, the weather’s good, my savings are good. Just chugging along.

Filed under 9-5, relationships, the everyday, thrifty tips |