So, last week I said we would be attempting a no-spend week – save for bills, medical expenses, and perhaps some gas.  We’ve done really really good, although not stellar.  We did end up buying a couple of really small things, but they weren’t FOR us, and the total was less than $5 and it was REALLY important to us.  Important enough to “break” the challenge.

I also happened to find a PURSE I want.  I’ve been searching for a cute but not too teenish – yet not grandma/bag ladyish – and of all weeks to find the perfect one?  I found it THIS week.  For 10 dollars.  On sale.  “While Supplies Last” (there were only 2) and in one of my favorite colors.  If you’re wondering, I caressed it and couldn’t put it down.  So, I carried it around the store and then gently put it back.  You know what….who really cares if my current purse is dirty and my other purses are from middle and high school?  In the big scheme of things…it doesn’t matter.  Sure, little purchases like those can make me feel better for a while…but they don’t REALLY matter.

We began the No Spend week as a challenge, but then it became a necessity when 2 unemployment checks got messed up and left us not knowing if we’d receive them at all.  So, unlike some people who began the challenge, we didn’t stock up on food or anything else.  We were prepared to live solely off of whatever we could find.  Luckily, my family offered to let us stay with them and thus supplied most of the food and a place to stay close so we wouldn’t have to waste gas (50 miles one way).

There have been more challenges, but since we haven’t been home (and will be leaving again, soon)…we’re choosing to put those off until we’re back again.  In the meantime, we’ve realized some new dreams that may or may not be God’s desire for us.  We’re not completely sure yet.  Not that we will ever be able to (or pretend to ) fully comprehend God’s plan….

We’re moving forward with some things that have been really difficult decisions to make.

And, for now…that’s all.  Partly because I’m not sure what the “plan” is and partly because I need to repack and gather a few things from the garden.

Welcome back!