Not A Frugal Friday

Well, what a day... you know when sometimes, things just don't go to plan?
I decided recently, that it was time to change my car. I don't do this lightly, but a reliable and economical car is needed for my commute.
I briefly thought about making this journey by public transport, but found out that not only would it take 4 hours a day (instead of 2 by car), but would also cost more than the current cost of fuel!

Much research and debate has taken place, concerning what new (to me) car I should go for.
I carefully decided on a budget, allowing for extra insurance, cancellation of old policy, cost of collection, etc.

This morning we found one that seemed to tick all the boxes. The only thing left to do was go and see it and check it was as described.
The car was located 42 miles away - well that's not too bad. We set off, but quickly hit some awful traffic, so it turned into a very long journey.

As we were indicating to turn onto the road where the car was, I saw the car driving out. Yep, the guy had sold it 5 minutes before we arrived.
A wasted day, wasted money on petrol, a very long trip and it was hot!
Not the worst thing in the world to happen, but so frustrating. Please keep your fingers crossed that I find something soon.

Summer Sizzling

I'm going to try and avoid the typically British trait of moaning about the weather. Whatever the temperature, we find fault - be it winters getting worse, summers not the same as we remembered from childhood or as is the case at the moment; sleep depriving, excessive heat.
No, we must make the most of it.

Stock photo from t'internet
 

But...... you have to feel sorry for the pets, who can't take that fur coat off! Mine are eating less, very lethargic and to be found in odd sleeping places in an effort to try and stay cool.

Snail Mail

I had a few things for sale on eBay. I didn't get a fortune for them, but it made a bit of space and it's a few extra £'s to use for anything but bills!


Another stock picture - not my actual parcels

 

It's ages since I had a little eBay spree and obviously it was before the last round of price rises for postal charges. I could hardly believe what it cost to send even a small package. So, my net 'win' at the end of this is much smaller than I anticipated.
Stupidly, I didn't check before I quoted the postal cost when I listed the items. On couple of them, the cost was more than I'd charged. Oh well , another learning curve!

Monday

Well, still not sorted the phone problem, but as I have a few days off work, it's a chance to catch up on some jobs.
Like almost everyone else, I'm taking advantage of the glorious UK weather and getting the washing out.

I know some people like to use their dryer, but it's an unnecessary expense as far as I'm concerned.......and you can't beat the smell of line dried clothes.

Another Try?

Despite the long absence, I would still like to maintain a blog - so another try. The past few months have been fraught with all kinds of stress and drama - I think the generic term is 'life', but that's no excuse is it?
I'm on a little money making mission at the moment. I've got a few things on eBay, with lots more to put on.

Stock pic, not my actual phone

No pics, as I've been without the necessary technology to take photos for a few days - phone, accident, broken, extra expense; you get the idea.
I have made a few things and have a number of WIP's that there is a good chance of me finishing soon!

The Lakes of Pontchartrain

Well, I've had a busy few days with not one, bur two nights out!
Firstly, I was offered a spare ticket to go and see the excellent Be Good Tanya's at one of Manchester's best venues, Royal Northern College of Music. I've seen them several times before and they didn't disappoint.
My Favourite song !

Next was a theatre trip to see The Accrington Pals at the The Royal Exchange A harrowing tale about the recruitment of most of the men from a small northern town, to fight in WW1. Almost all were killed near The Somme in the space of 10 minutes in June 1916. The play is cleverly told from the perspective of the women left at home. It was funny, sad and thought-provoking.
So, that's my social life done for a while.

......And Not Much Sewing Was Done

Archie lays claim to a new sleeping place.