What I Spent - March 2024

Just as a reminder, every month I track everything I spend and show you how I spent my money. Groceries continues to be a big chunk, but there were other unusual expenses this month, so let's dive in.

Remember that my husband pays a lot of our larger bills - the mortgage and car payment. In return, I don't remind him daily that my earning potential decreased dramatically when we moved to Nowhere, Wisconsin so he could live his dream as a political theorist. LOL. Ha ha. Our relationship is not that transactional, to be fair, but he does make significantly more money than I do. 

Groceries (29.2%) - This actually wasn't too bad this month. It even includes TWO trips to Costco. 

Technology (13.8%) - This is a bit inflated. I currently have three pairs of earbuds, but am returning at least two of those. Unfortunately, that return has not yet been processed, so there's a lot of money on my credit card. 

Pets (12.5%) - Zelda's food went down in price again, but it's still stupid expensive. This category is surprisingly low. I bought Zelda food twice this month, but other than a couple of bottles of toothpaste and some probiotics for the dog, this wasn't too bad. My husband took Zelda to the vet for a checkup and he paid that bill (ha ha ha! I told him I'd write him a check for the cost and he rolled his eyes at me). Next month it will be going up again, though, because Hannah has her yearly exam and vaccines and I'll have to start getting her on her spendy allergy medicine now that the ground is unfrozen.

Clothes (12.1%) - I had a couple of large purchases this month. I bought a new jacket to wear during the spring/fall because my jacket's zipper broke and was unrepairable (I did use a 20% off coupon for this purchase). I also purchased some new winter boots because mine are in terrible shape. The boots were half off. I might buy a new bra or two in April, but I don't foresee any major upcoming clothing expenses. 

Personal care (8.7%) - Sephora does a big sale in March and I purchased a lot of makeup and facial care items, as well as some shampoo and conditioner. I'm hoping this means I won't have to buy a lot more for a while. I do need some new foundation, still, so that might be something I buy in April or May.

Bills (10.9%) - Car and home insurance as well as the water bill.

Gifts (2.4%) - Some greeting cards and a present for Humphrey the Dog.

Savings (2%) - This is a problem and is my #1 priority for fixing in the next quarter.

Fitness (2%) - Fitness classes for April/May.

Health (1.8%) - I had to buy my expensive prescription toothpaste. 

Eating out/cars/miscellaneous (<1%) - I had Dunkin' once (on my work from home day), filled up the gas on one of our cars, and had a few things here and there. 

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What's the best thing you bought in March? (For me, it a stick of Kat Von D Tattoo Liner. It is the best eyeliner I've ever found and it comes in a mini size, which is perfect because it means I have full control over it when I'm sticking it near my eye. I've written about my ethical dilemma with this product here before and I'm sure you are all relieved to know that basically I just decided that I can use it.)