Is It Time To Buy A Shotgun Yet?

A couple of days ago, as I was routinely rifling through Michaela's backpack in search of homework, library books and solicitations from her teacher to bring cupcakes, I came across what looked to be a heart-shaped note for me. Michaela typically makes me notes at school during her free-time, so I assumed this was just another token of her thanks for being the best Mom in the world. However, when I turned the note over, I discovered that this note was not written by Michaela or intended for me. On the back was scrawled, "Frm Blake". Yes, the same Blake that professed his love for her to me in the lunch line. I haven't heard much about him since. I see him every week and he's a good kid, but love notes? In first grade? I shouldn't be surprised since Michaela is the cutest girl in first grade and a great personality to match. So today I opened her backpack to put her lunch in and what do I see? A fuzzy, red teddy bear holding a heart. I question Michaela about this, hoping that she hasn't become a thief in her spare time. She replies, "Blake gave that to me for a late Valentine's gift". Uh, excuse me? First graders are supposed to exchange crappy little store bought cards, not stuffed animals. This guy is serious. Don't get me wrong, I think it is absolutely adorable that this little guy bought Michaela a Valentine's Day gift. But I just am not ready for boyfriends. Boyfriends mean she's growing up. Boyfriends mean she'll get her heart broken. I'm not ready for her broken heart. Can't she just stay little and carefree?

The Grocery Game

"Financial Experts" have been flooding the morning shows with all their tips and tricks to save us money. The best I've come across so far is Coupon Mom. Recently I've instituted some of the tips on this website and they have worked. I've printed coupons and used them in conjunction with store deals and saved some money. However, I need to get better at the planning process. Currently, it's taking me a few hours to prepare for a shopping trip. But I believe with practice and routine I will end up saving some good money with minimal effort. The creator of Coupon Mom impressed me on OPRAH when she bought $127 worth of groceries for only $37.16. That's 71 percent savings! I'm not yet on that skill level, but I'm learning the game and hopefully will turn pro in no time. My best grocery bill at Albertson's was $132.37 but after coupons and store sales I paid $70.54. (47 percent savings) I challenge you to play the game and see if you can beat me...

2008: The Year in Photos