This year there's only one contender for the top spot on my "what am I grateful for?" list:
Good health.
Without good health, nothing else matters.
I am blessed. And hope you are, too.
Wishing all the bounty of the season. Get vaccinated, wear your mask, keep your distance. Stay healthy.
Penny Pincher
One thing I've lost in the covid pandemic is my capacity for outrage. I read the news (online; don't watch it on tv, I've had my fill of talking heads) and ask myself: Does this concern me personally? Is there anything I can (or should) do about it? If not, move on.
The latest hue and cry is over inflation. Social security recipients are getting the biggest COLA (5.9%) in decades for 2022. That's the good news. The bad news? It's eaten up by increased Med-B premiums (14.5% increase) and INFLATION! Yup. Inflation. Everything is going to cost MORE. Don't uncork the champagne, there's nothing to celebrate.
I say it's spinach and I say to hell with it. Get a grip and live with it. Prices are always going up.
I've looked at my budget for 2022. With a some tweaking, it will be just fine. I'll be able to save a bit more, I'll cut some discretionary spending. All will be well. Belts will be worn a little tighter in 2022.
Yes, I will drink a toast to the new year. A small champagne toast on my beer budget.
Penny Pincher
