eBay – I was there

As I mentioned in my earlier post today, eBay was one place I would head.  And I did.

I’ve been looking at one particular system for bubs for Christmas.  If I had to buy it new, I didn’t have a problem with that, however, being the wise shopper, always looking for a deal, I scoured eBay for a couple of weeks watching numerous items that all fell into the same system by V Tech.

This morning, prior to running out the door to work, I placed a bid much lower than many were going for in auction, however assumed that if it was meant to be, I would win the auction at that amount (a meager $35.00.) That was the case!  The entire package has a retail value of roughly $75 and I walked away, including shipping with about a $30 savings.  Nice.

Adjusting, Finances and Christmas

It’s not easy adjusting from a two-income to single income household. There are definitely expenses that drop with their being one less person here, such as groceries and utilities. However, last night, when picking bubs up from the sitter, I did find one bill that definitely increased with the lack of a partner.

I feel very fortunate that I took the opportunity months ago to get a running start on Christmas shopping. Although there are now things I won’t use (ebay, here I come!), I do have a fair amount of items ready to go for bubs. It’s not going to be a monstrous Christmas, by any means, but he definitely will have a few good things and I’m working on getting a couple more items and that will be it (ebay, here I come!).

I’m a stickler for finding good deals. It’s a downfall of mine. If I can find something for even $10 cheaper (with shipping) than what I’d pay in the store, I’m game! There’s tons of discount places online that offer great products at a reduced rate. I jump for those deals, too.

Aside from the two things left to purchase for bubs, he’s due for many more books. That will be the fun shopping ahead… Barnes & Nobel, here I come!

With that, work, here I come.

Making Plans

It’s challenging to go through a break-up at this time of the year with the holidays fast approaching.  There are less than fifty days until Christmas.  The thought of expenses sends shivers down my spine.

I’m busily making plans, however, to go through this transaction in our lives and find a means to still provide a few “Santa” gifts for my son.  With many expenses, I’m unsure just what I’ll be capable of accomplishing, however, I’m definitely examining my options.

On a bright side, I did start Christmas shopping months ago and do have a few things already.  I’m also working diligently on having a few personal essays submitted for publication in the coming weeks.  I’ll also have to investigate a few options for photography as well.  Those hobbies of mine might provide all the means necessary to ensure this holiday season isn’t a complete bust…

I’m also actively looking for a new place to live.  It’s going to be a daunting task as the winter season is upon us and snowfall is coming quickly.  I’m hoping that I’ll be able to get some new furniture for the place I decide in the process.  Life is definitely taking on a different shape and form.  It’s good to have change though, especially when the past few months have been quite challenging.

At the moment, it’s still difficult while we are living under the same roof.  There are more than a few awkward moments, but it shouldn’t be long before life settles down again – so I hope.

As much as I don’t want to spend time away from my son right now, I’m also looking for a different job; one where I will make a more stable paycheck and maintain my other job on a part-time, two night a week basis for the additional income.  The end of 2007 is definitely bringing many changes with it.  I hope those changes prove to be good in the end.