I took a hiatus while I got settled, which was probably stupid because I spent exorbitant amounts of money in the interim. I thought I'd be ok, but it turns out I really need this blog and this community to keep me on track. You all inspire me to stop acting like an idiot.

My short-term sublet is up in a month, but I signed a lease today for a new apartment. It's a 5 bedroom (I'm only renting one room, of course), and I just dropped $3,700 on my security deposit and first month's rent. OUCH. From there, the rent is $1250/month. Believe it or not, this is a steal for my neighborhood.

My greatest fixed expense, then, will be rent (along with transportation ($89/month unlimited Metro Card and tuition $500/month). Unfortunately, I am a big spender when it comes to groceries. I can't help it - if I see truffle oil, goat cheese, or fresh pulled mozzarella, I have to put in the cart.

I need to start eating like the pauper I am. Right now, I spent about $75/week on groceries for myself alone. This is not cool (particularly since I also go out to eat a lot). I need to cap it at $50.

My first project will be creating a menu and a lifestyle that will allow me to eat with that kind of budget. Any ideas welcome. I don't even know where to begin...

Like I said, my main goal here is to downgrade my lifestyle and lower my (material) expectations. I'm going generic.

Clothing and accessories will be the final battle, and one I'm not looking forward to, but I thought I'd start small by 86'ing store-bought coffee. When at all possible.

I used to buy a minimum of 3 espresso/tea drinks per week, usually before shifts or while running errands. That's not all that bad, especially since I get Americanos (espresso + water) which are far, far cheaper than the sugary alternatives. Still, I figure I can save $10/week but making due with my travel mugs. $40/month is nearly half my transportation costs.

Right now I'm crashing at my parents' house for a couple weeks while I make the transition from apartment to New York, so brewed coffee is legitimately free for me. I might as well make use of it.