My Frugal Miser - April Expenses: $2,854

I spent too much in April.  While I need to spend less than $1,667/mo. to achieve my spending goal, I was way over.

Fortunately I will get a refund this month for some of my car insurance.  I bought a used car in April and had to insure it at the dealership before they would let me leave.  This hasty decision was not wise financially, and I quickly corrected it a few days later by switching to GEICO.  Switching will cut nearly $600 off the amount I report below.  Additionally, I will sell the S-10 after we move and will receive an additional refund on that policy (I pay 6 months at a time).

Entertainment spending was high because I dropped $190 in an hour at the blackjack table.  I have never had much luck at the Hard Rock in Tampa, which is why I rarely go.  I also spent $463 on a new crown (the kind that goes in your mouth).  It was to replace an old one.

Lastly, I signed up for Healthywage after reading about it at www.tightfistedmiser.com.  My buddy Andy is betting $3,000 he can lose 25 pounds in 6 months.  I thought that was a splendid idea, although my wager is less than that and will be paid in monthly installments.  I figure at worst this is an investment in my health but at best I could have my bet returned to me and win a little money, too.

April Expenses:  $2,854

$1183 Auto ($0 for service, $1,098 for insurance, $85 for fuel)

$0 Bank Fees

$0 Clothing

$8 Computer

$364 Entertainment (movies, gambling, alcohol)

$194 Food

$9 Gifts Given

$190 Household/Housing/Home Repair

$246 Health and Dental Insurance

$0 Investment Expenses

$464 Medical/Dental

$(73) Miscellaneous (income)

$165 Personal Care

$0 Subscriptions

$0 Taxes

$86 Utilities

$18 Vacation and Recreation