Raising funds

 It seems trite to blog while drastic events are taking place across the world: most recently hideous earthquakes crushing cities and killing people. As little as we can do, our thoughts are with these people.

But I guess that's what a blog is: my blather, someone else's blather, letting each other feel as normal as possible.

We are slowly managing to pay into the huge vet bill (four figures) from Ronnie Barker's treatment.  (For those who don't know, Ronnie was our puppy, who very sadly became ill and died two weeks ago. Despite being insured, the bill from the vets was double the amount. They did everything they could to save him.)

We don't have loans or credit cards, so are working hard to pay the vet.

Here are more things we are doing to save and pay off the sudden bill:

. We are not buying anything. We have food in our cupboards and freezer, clothes on our back and a roof over our heads.  

. We are looking at things we already have to see how we can use them.

. If we can't use them (and they are not sentimental items), can we sell them?  We are advertising things that are even unusual - empty perfume bottles, vintage board games, etc. and selling them.

. We are only using our car when we have to. 

. I've kept this month's food plan the same, but am parcelling up an additional portion from each meal to feed us next month.  It can be done. I use plastic boxes where I have them, and freezer bags.  Labels are the key!  I'm not planning to food shop at the end of this month.  We'll see how long we can manage. It's an adventure!

. We have cancelled any trips out/visits to see folk for the time being.  We have phone and email.  Walking every day is free. S'ok.

. I'm selling clothing we just don't need.  Vinted is coming up trumps.

. Activities are cancelled, and we have plenty here to do. Books online, leftover paint, paper, furniture to rub down and varnish or oil. We have everything we need.

We are leaving our emergency fund alone, we've used what we have spare and raised, and this week we have paid £500 to the vet bill.

I miss Ronnie desperately. He was  so, so cuddly. Soft. Friendly with everyone. 

He would sit beside me on the sofa and his head would be the same height as mine.  He was such a gorgeous character.

Life can be bloody cruel sometimes.

But we are so lucky to be able to live here, with each other, near friends and family, safe as we can be.

Take care,

FMxx