Money Matters

So, I'm poor. I mean, broke-ass poor. I haven't been in such a bad financial state in five or six years. Guess if you live like your in your early 20s, you also have to deal with the consequences (aside from the wicked hangovers).

I actually brought my lunch to work almost every day last week. I've cooked dinner, or had leftovers, nearly every night. I probably indulged in a few too many drinks on Friday, but hey, can't be perfect. I'm even staying with my parents and brother over Thanksgiving -- in the same place, under the same roof -- to save on a hotel. Seriously, I'm at Defcon 1 here.

As much as it sucks not to have any money, it's interesting to see what really matters to me and what doesn't. Haircut? Nope. Clothes? Eh ... can make do with current wardrobe. Home furnishings? Certainly not. An HDTV, sound system, PS3, iPhone? Ha, please.

What won't I skimp on? Good food. Good friends (which usually involves drinks, of course). Good music. And I'm trying to build up my savings again, as well as a travel fund. Not sure if I'll be able to jet anywhere before the end of the year, but it's better to have a goal than not, right?

Bits and bytes:

• Man, I love the fall. Honeycrisp apples FTW!
• Braised beef short ribs this weekend, had leftovers tonight. Pretty darn good, if I do say so myself. I'm going to make chili this weekend (for real), and may even tackle pie crust. Wish me luck.
• T-minus 11 days until the Duke basketball season officially begins.