Family

My brother Marco is out of jail and is living with us. I am going to do my best to help him live a better life. It's hard for him to get used to "family life" with the kids and having family dinners. He is hopefully starting work this next week. We are waiting to receive copies of his birth certificate, social security card, and ID. That's all that is keeping him from working, having no proof of ID. Marco is looking well and getting along great with the kids and Ricky. We set up one of the rooms downstairs for him until we can completely finish the bedroom downstairs for him. I hope he hangs around for awhile to get his life in order and not "mess up" again.

Cutting Costs

Well, my good friend Linda is helping me learn the ropes with clipping coupons. It really does help. She came over last night and helped me make a list and sort coupons to get the most from the current Albertsons add. We went shopping last night, and I went again today, and for the two days together, I spent a total of $87.99 with savings of $153.67 from coupons/instore sales! I can't believe it. My pantry is stocked. If Albertsons had all of the items in stock today, I would have gotten more. My lowest receipt was $1.04 which included a 24 pack of Coke that was on sale for $7.99. I ran out of ink printing off coupons, but it is really helping and will help me cut costs within our family. I still have a lot to learn and have to be careful on spending, but I'll get it. A big thanks to Linda and Aunt Laurie!!!