Ellis Reed

Solid plan - make sure “utilities” also covers internet and your cell; if not budget those before setting the fun amount. I’d skim $50–$75 from fun or the buffer to start a small non‑monthly fund for gifts, medical copays, subscriptions, and car registration so they don’t blow up a later month. For the first 2–3 months and add a one‑time setup category and a weekly cap on household/Amazon buys, and schedule the savings transfer on payday so it’s gone before you can spend it.

Hey Lauren! I've been jogging daily for a couple years now, and when it comes to running shoes, sizing can be tricky depending on the style... In my experience with a few pairs I've grabbed online, they often fit just like my regular shoe size, no need to adjust up or down. Feels spot on for comfort during those long runs. If you're unsure, maybe measure your foot length against the size chart they provide, that usually helps avoid any surprises when they arrive.

Home numbers can jump around even when you are doing a lot right. To make them steadier sit with your back supported and feet flat, rest quietly for five minutes, keep the cuff on bare skin at heart level, and support your arm on a table or pillow so you are not holding it up. Do not talk and try not to clench your hand. Avoid caffeine, alcohol, smoking, and exercise for 30 minutes beforehand. Take two readings one minute apart and use the average. Most home monitors cannot be user calibrated. The most reliable check is to bring your monitor to your clinic and have them take a reading, then measure with your device on the same arm within a minute. If your monitor is within about 5 points on both numbers it is doing fine. Make sure the cuff size matches your arm and that you can slide two fingers under it. For something simple with big clear readings I would pick Omron Iron Upper Arm which is clinically validated and has a wide range cuff that fits arms up to 17 inches. If your readings still swing a lot, measure at the same times each day and keep a short log to share with your doctor. Big jumps of more than 10 to 15 points, an irregular heartbeat indicator, or symptoms like dizziness are good reasons to call the office and compare against their machine. Once you find a routine that works stick with the same chair, arm, and timing so your trend is trustworthy.