A penny for someone's (school)thoughts.

Today my daughter found a penny at school. Not much else to report.

Total today: $0.01
Total found so far: $151.35

Yay! A promising day.

Today Hubby found himself some change- thirty six cents- while on campus. I found three pennies at Chuck E. Cheese's where we celebrated my good friends' fifth birthday. Yay!

Total today: $0.39
Total found so far: $151.34

Yippee!

Found seventeen cents while shopping for some brand new sneakers at Jersey Gardens. Note to self : Never EVER eat salad at Ranch 1!!!

Total today: $0.17
Total found thus far: $150.95

Yay!

Found fifty two cents on campus while checking out one of S.I's brilliant minds. The professor is an encyclopedia of knowledge and so I intend to pick his brain entirely.


Total today: $0.52
Total thus far: $150.78

Some coins.. and some sweat.

Today I found a total of $0.43 as I walked to the gym with my good friend M. She found a few pennies here and there but no silver. She did find a piece of a dollar bill (which I'm sure she'll post on her blog site :)

Total found: $0.43
TOtal thus far: $150.26

FIRST DOLLAR FIND!!!

YIPPEEE! Today hubby broke our non green streak by finding the first dollar bill of 2007! It was behind some video games at a local electronics store. My daughter found a penny while we went shopping for some 75% off clearance items at our local PX.

--
Congratulations to Mr. Rocco- winner of our four round American Idol (PS2 version) during our karaoke bout last night. The setting was on easy and I personally think ANYONE can sing "More than words" since the song is so syrupy and drone like (can you tell i'm a sore loser LOL)

Total today: $1.01
Total thus far: $149.83

Yippee!

woohoo!!
Found one penny while I froze my A%^ off picking up a prescription. I'm rich!!


Total today: $0.01
Total found thus far: $148.82

Chuck E Pennies from heaven...

Today we found nine pennies all conveniently located in and around Chuck E. Cheese's- my children's favorite place. Afterwards, we stopped off at the library and picked up some books before we made our way back home.

Total found: $0.09
Total found thus far: $148.81

Wednesdays...

... can be so very boring. Fortunately for us, this cold Wednesday in January brought us $0.39 in change. Sandy found a quarter while out on a Kmart run, the rest of the change was uncovered by Hubby. Woohoo!!!

Total today: $0.39
Total found thus far: $148.72

Whoopee!!

As I sit here listening to Bush's address, I am happy to say that the Krabs have accumulated a healthy chunk of change today.. SEVENTY FIVE CENTS!! It's been quite a dry spell so today's finds have lifted my spirits somewhat :)

Hubby found sixty five cents by a vacuum at a nearby gas station. Sandy uncovered ten pennies around the gym building. She's quite the basketball player! Other than that.. not much else goin' on 'round here.

(P.S. What is up with Pelosi's nervous blinking? Is she communicating with free thinking democrats behind dubya's head?)

Total found today: $0.75
Total thus far: $148.33

Yay!

Today Sandy found $0.25 in school! Hubby called to inform me that he found some coins but since they aren't in my possession, I can't count it towards the total until then. I'm hoping the dry spell will pass soon. I'd like some warm weather please?!?!?!?!?

total today: $0.25

total thus far: $147.58

Whoopee!

Today we found three lovely pennies as we ran a few errands. The weather wasn't as cold as yesterday! I managed to grab these off the shelf- for all of you who haven't discovered the joys of 100 calorie snacking, THIS is the sunny equivalent to Yukon Gold.

Total today: $0.03

Total thus far: $147.33

No change.. and no fun.

So we tried to go out for a short change walk... and no such luck! It was FRRREEEEZZZING outside! We spent the whole day indoors. No change found today, folks.

Another day.

My daughter found a lonely penny in school today. She handed in her finished science project (mid term) on time. She passed!! Hooray for my oldest babe. Geology 101.. gotta love it!

Went to the gym with Mrs. Rocco again today. She's quite a motivator!

total today: $0.01
total thus far: $147.30

Ho-hum

Another day.. and NO change to show for. Brrr... I think i'll have that hot cup of tea now, thanks.

Boo!

Not a single bit of change found today.. but I did happen to find my long lost bracelet which seemed to disappear for about a month or so. Now to find my anniversay ring before hubby catches a fit!!!!

A lone penny..and a promise.

Today we found one lonely penny waiting for us in the parking lot. Other than that, all is well.

--
I promised a friend I'd post this poem in their honor. Without further ado, here it is:

Spring and All
by

William Carlos Williams

By the road to the contagious hospital
under the surge of the blue
mottled clouds driven from the
northeast-a cold wind. Beyond, the
waste of broad, muddy fields
brown with dried weeds, standing and fallen
patches of standing water
the scattering of tall trees
All along the road the reddish
purplish, forked, upstanding, twiggy
stuff of bushes and small trees
with dead, brown leaves under them
leafless vines-
Lifeless in appearance, sluggish
dazed spring approaches-
They enter the new world naked,
cold, uncertain of all
save that they enter. All about them
the cold, familiar wind-
Now the grass, tomorrow
the stiff curl of wildcarrot leaf
One by one objects are defined-
It quickens: clarity, outline of leaf
But now the stark dignity of
entrance-Still, the profound change
has come upon them: rooted, they
grip down and begin to awaken

Total found: $0.01

Total thus far: $147.29

Nada...

Nothing found today.. but I am so into this "24"... wow. We're hoping to find some change to make up for this dry spell. Perhaps a trip to the campus is in order.

Change IS good.. after all...

Today we found three pennies while catching some good bargains at the bullseye store (Target) with the Rocco's. Mrs. Krabs had an awesome workout with Mrs. Rocco- despite the horrible football game on TV. My hawks are gone until next season... I guess all's fair in love and football.

I am so happy with this particular little gadget. It's a Hello Kitty Ipod charger/alarm clock which we snagged at 50% off. After checking Ebay, it seems like I actually caught a good price on this item.


Total today: $0.03
Total thus far: $147.28

Rainy Jersey Pennies...

Everywhere! Today we found eleven Joisey Pennies... and a cute lil' dime while on our way to exit 7 on the Turnpike. We gathered up some healthy snacks and choice beverages for tomorrow's playoff game. It should be interesting.

Speaking of interesting... the colts had a great (surprising) game today. Let's see what happens next.

Total today: $0.21
Total so far: $147.25

Change happens... sometimes.

Today we found fifteen cents- a dime and a nickel- while shopping for some new printer ink. Funny how time flies.. it's 2007... where were you twenty years ago? I was sitting in Mrs. Martin's seventh grade class, drawing album covers and thinking Bon Jovi was a rock god superstar. NEVER SAY GOODBYE!

Total found: $0.15
Total so far: $147.04

Celebration... and some silver!

Coins were a-plenty on this bitterly cold day. Hubby came home with forty five cents (quarter, two dimes)- all parking lot goodies. Apparently the visitor's at his job left more than a bad taste in people's mouths. In the evening, we dined with the Rocco's and celebrated Mr. Rocco's birthday. Great food, great company.. what more could we ask for on a blustery January evening? You guessed it.. more change, of course. One dime and four pennies completed our day's total of $0.64.

Total today: $0.64
Total thus far: $146.89

Winter peeks in...

Today was one of the coldest days we've experienced thus far. It was a bone chilling cold that seemed to penetrate every layer of clothing worn regardless of fabric. Not a good day if you have a bad back or any other persistent seasonal affliction. We found two lonely pennies in a parking lot. That's it. Just two. I will stay positive since it's only January.

Side note-

I watched the President give his speech yesterday and I was not impressed nor surprised by the outcome. His speech implies that more of my fellow military families will become overburdened. It's bad enough that we've known a few soldiers that passed away in Iraq... apparently there's room for more death and decay. I won't rant about peace or disarmament but don't expect me to defend my political party on this one.

On a lighter note, I had a great tea party with my four-year old today. She is quite the cordial little hostess. Children have an uncanny way of making life a little more pleasant, wouldn't you say?

Today today: I got my $0.02 worth.
Total thus far: $146.25

Dunkin pulls through...

While I was not the connoisseur on this quick trip, Hubby found himself a dime at Dunkin Donuts while grabbing a cup of hot cocoa. I have lost the taste for DD recently... guess the Cuban Coffee has my loyalty.

Total today: $0.10
Total thus far: $146.23

Money woes...

Today we found a total of 12 cents- one dime and two pennies- at CVS and Subway. January seems like quite a tight month here for the Changepot. After reading the other blogs, I take some solace in knowing that I am not alone in the Sparse Change Department.


Total found :$0.12
Total thus far: $146.13

Fun...

No change found today... but I did make a yummy turkey which we are all feeling right now... verry slowww. Thanks Tryptophan!

Saturday...

HAPPY THREE KINGS DAY!


What a game tonight!!! I still can't believe how close the game was between the Seahawks and the Cowboys. Poor Tony... he was so close. OH WELL!!!

Today we found three pennies total... not much else to report. Change is hard to come by nowadays. It's ok though... there's always tomorrow!

Update on Changepot 05': Current interest earned for December 06= $1.32

Total found: $0.03
Total thus far: $146.01

Yay!

Hubby found six cents while paying our tuition for Spring 2007 at college. Hopefully we'll find more change over the weekend as we take in some exercise for a change.

Total found: $0.06
Total thus far: $145.98

Another day...

Nothing found today. It looks like it's going to be a tough year for found change. I did manage to snag some extra Z's for a change. Almost 12 hours. I felt like Jack Nicholson in "Wolf".

Fluff and fold-

While we found no money while outside running errands, I did happen to find a ten dollar bill in one of the dirty jean pockets. Too bad it isn't found change.. I guess I'll consider it a laundry fee.

January 2

Today we ventured out for some much needed (HEALTHY) groceries. The family is embarking upon a healthier eating venture this year. Funny how old habits creep up slowly. While shopping, we found 0.06 cents- a nickel and a penny- our first found change for 2007.

Total found: $0.06
Total thus far: $145.92

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!

Today the Krab family stayed in and enjoyed a game day... The girls played with their Nintendo DS and I got to share some gametime with hubby as we relished in the thrills of the XBOX360 version of "The Godfather". I will never look at the movie the same way again.

No money found today... hopefully tomorrow will bring in a few coins.

Happiness is...

Finding eight cents on New Years eve! There may be more to come later since Hubby has some errands to do as well. Today's game was AMAZING!!! GOO SEAHAWKS!!!! I am very Happy with Hackett's sportsmanlike conduct despite the crappy reverse call early in the game.. I think I'll root for DJ from now on...


Total today: $0.08
Total so far: $145.86

Pizza Hut tip

Today the hubby gave into commerical television and went to Pizza Hut to get the 3 Medium Pizzas. When Hubby returned, he reported that he found $.30- a dime and a nickel.

---


Today I had a chance to test out the coolest gift given to the Krabs by fellow coin hunters the Roccos of Piggy Bank renown- I transferred all this year's change into the Amazing Money Jar. The whopping change total amounts to $57.78 since October 2006. Dollars come out to exactly $88.00. According to our new gift, the changepot is over by twenty cents.. THANK YOU EVERYONE!!!!! I'd rather be over than under for a change!

Total today: $0.30
Total thus far: $145.78

The Final Days....

Found two pennies while throwing out the trash....not much else to report.

Tis' the Season

While out shopping today, we found a total of sixteen cents and all was well at the Krab household :)


ON THIS DAY LAST YEAR....December 28

the Changepot 2005 was holding in steady at $35.70. Since October 2006, the changepot holds $145.26. The grand total of the Changepot as of December 28, 2006 is : $525.93... isn't that a promising number, ladies and gents?



Total today: $0.16
Total thus far: $145.26

Nothing but a good time...

Today we didn't find any money BUT we had some good clean family fun playing some basketball at the gym. Sandy scored 47 baskets in five games against Mr. Krabs aka "Larry Bird"- this man can not only score baskets inside the black line.. three pointers are his top specialty. I am very proud of them both.

The Ketchup Game...

Hope you all got what you wanted!! My apologies for not updating sooner... it's been hectic but hey, better late than never hmm? On Saturday, hubby found a dollar bill by the liquor section of the shopette and a penny by the cashier as he bought some coconut rum. I"ll be updating the totals for the day when I return from some shopping.

Total: $1.01
Total thus far: $145.10

Christmas eve is coming...

Are you prepared??

We redeemed our bottles and cans today- chalking up $3.45 (Three dollar bills, a quarter and two dimes) for the Changepot fund. Hubby and Mom are out doing some last minute shopping so I won't know if they've found anything of note to put here thus far.


Total today: $3.45
Total thus far: $144.09

---

Times are tough.

Despite my looming infection, hubby and I have gone out multiple times running errands and the like. Results? NADA. People are starting to pinch pennies it seems. One very cool thing happened today though. As I was cleaning out my library, I found my husband's camel-bak (which he uses in place of a man-bag during the summer). The last time he'd used it was during our trip to Sesame Place. As I shuffled the bag, I heard a jingling sound. I found five pennies which looked in bad shape. He smiled and said "Oh yeah... I must have forgotten to give it to you when we got back home!". So today, we claim the cents for strict accounting purposes.

Total today: $0.05
Total found thus far: $140.64

Coke updates

After collecting some coke bottle caps for a few months, the Krabs received their prizes: one coke holiday 2006 truck and a coca cola game set. We gave the game set to Sandy and the truck to Kitty (she was quite happy with it). We've still got a few points left.

Update to come later as no one has left the house yet.

Update: Chalk up eleven cents for the changepot- one nickel and six pennies waited for us at the grocery store where we did our christmas feast shopping.

total today : $0.11
Total found thus far: $140.59

misdiagnosis..and a dollar.

after going to the emergency room with 105.1 fever, we found out that I have strep throat. Hubby got my meds and ran a few errands- snagging 16 pennies in the process. He found a dollar bill at the pharmacy where he picked up my medications. I{m still a little dazed but at least the fever won't pass 102.

Total today: $1.16
Total so far: $140.48

it's a bird it's a plane... it's INFLUENZA!!!

Well ladies and gents, Mrs. Krabs officially has the flu. You're probably wondering why i'm online if i've got the flu- I guess this blog is just too important to ignore (as are the bills lol).

Before I was tyson punched by the nasty strain of the flu, hubby and I made last minute shopping rounds. The money found today was all on the street as we waited for the light to change color. I found a 1958 quarter right around the corner from the firehouse on Richmond Avenue. Can we sa SILVER?! Current value : $1.75 (or it may have changed.. I am too delusional to look it up. As hubby went to retrieve the change, three other pennies, including a 1940 wheat (worth nothing right about now).

A word of advice to my cyber change hunters and accidental readers: THE FLU IS OUT THERE! I wouldn't have known it was the flu until I started tallying up the symptoms (which are) :

a. extremely high temperatures (I've reached 104.6 twice)
b. tolerance to high amounts of fever reducers/pain medication (advil, and tylenol didn't do anything for me)
c. fatigue, vomiting, and serious muscle aches.

i'll be on my way to the hospital tomorrow. Fun.

Happy Holidays!! (ugh)

total found: $0.28
total thus far: 139.32

another fun day...

Today we found five pennies scattered around Fort Hamilton, Brooklyn. The continuous topic of conversation today was our amazing change find yesterday. Hubby brought up the fact that we havent really "hunted" since early October and since the majority of change was found on campus (as usual), it could easily have been finals week that yielded such finds. Personally I think this find cushions the "bad month" we've had. Still, our outings left one family member in bed with what looks like the beginning of flu (just in time for Christmas.. yum)

Total today: $0.05
Total found: $139.04

WHOA!!!!

Saturday December 16
Holy Moly!
We walked around here early this morning and found LOTS of change... we're talking over six dollars worth of change, folks! We made our way to an open field where a traveling fair had passed a few months ago, I am so shocked. We found $3.00 in change scattered around the area before heading out to the nearby mall (for breakfast) where change seemed to multiply in record numbers. Here are the totals for today and it's still 1:50.. meaning we have more daylight hours for ping hunting!!!!

quarters 12
nickels 15
dimes 18 (2 silver)
pennies 84

I'm taking a dollar in change with me to "call forth the new ping". Here is what i'm taking on my next trip out
1 quarter
5 nickels
3 dimes
20 pennies
and a foreign coin

total found $6.39

update: while hanging with the Roccos (of Piggy Bank renown), we found more change. I’l post pics tomorrow. The totals are as follows:

2 quarters
4 dimes
13 nickels

Updated total: $7.42
Total thus far: $138.99

two cents

two cents ... that's all for today... two pretty copper pennies.

Thursday

Thursday...

Not much to report (just like yesterday lol). Hubby found eleven cents in the parking lot at work. No one else found anything since it was such a bleah day. Need some more pizzazz to get me through the seasonal slump. Drinks anyone?


UPDATE: daddy's quick trip to the drugstore yielded fifteen cents (dime and nickel) as he purchased cough syrup for the girls. GO SEAHAWKS !!!!



Total found: $0.26
Total thus far: $131.55

Wednesday...

Not much to report...didn't do much today except clean, cook, and watch the rugrats. Hubby's job took him to uptown Harlem where he found three pretty quarters in three separate areas. Life is good.


Total found: $0.75
Total thus far: $131.29

Random Acts of Kindness...

Today we found a total of $0.11 while on an evening run to the grocery store. I am so tired of christmas shopping... when will it ever end????

Total found: $0.11
Total thus far: $130.54

Ping..and a miss

Three out of four Krabs family members made their way to the mall. Two dimes, one nickel and sixteen pennies later, the family emerged victorious on an otherwise mediocre day.

Total found: $0.41
Total thus far: $130.43

Breakfast with the bearded one...

Today we took the girls to have breakfast with a tired looking Santa. He smiled and politely listened to the children's requests like a real trooper. Must be tough!

We found a whopping $0.50 today! Our first find was a quarter on the way to the breakfast (thanks to Bri for that one). The gradual procession of pennies (ten in all) ranged from parking lots and other stores where people loved to push in order to secure the right gift for their spoiled brats. I was tackled by an idiotic redhead who didn't see where she was going. Fortunately I squared up my shoulders and stoodright in front of Kitty as she was headed in her direction (I don't care if people push me.. it's the kids I guard ferociously). We collided like two linebackers at Qwest field. I bumped her so hard she took a second to balance herself. I shot her an evil look as I ushered my child over to another section of the store. I hate the shopping season!

Total found: $0.50
Total thus far: $130.02

Bleah Day...

Sandy found one whole dime while at the store today. Ladies and gents... this is officially one tough ping season thus far. Hopefully we'll be able to find some change tomorrow as we turn in some coins from the penny tin (non changepot coinage).



Total found: 0.10
Total Thus far: 129.52

P.S. Have you sent out your gifts yet? Don't wait 'til the last minute!

MallRats: The new plague.

Today the Krabs set out for some wholesome family ping hunting at the local Mall. We found lots of pennies -twenty in fact (People don't like pennies!). Sandy found the majority of the change in the oddest of places... what a pro! We found one quarter, two dimes, and twenty pennies. While we hunted, we picked up two lovely Christmas dresses for my girls... I am so proud! On a lower note, I must say I am quite disappointed at the mouth on these teenagers today- as we walked to our car, three thug Columbine wannabe goth kids said some disgusting things in front of my children. I don't know how I restrained myself especially since one said something so vulgar.... I kept reminding myself that this lil' sonofanitch is someone's son. OK.. back to happier thoughts.


Changepot 06' Alert:
We received our first savings statement of the Changepot 06' account. Total added this month: $1.17. Thank you- kind strangers- for contributing to the changepot cause. It's the gift that keeps on giving :)


Total found: 0.65
Total Thus far: 129.42

Shopping... DONE!

Here's a baby champion in the making. The inlaws are preparing their females for "the season" so we're hoping to stop by when new pups come in the summer... yippee!!!

But seriously, folks.. back to shopping.

Ok.. now we're really done. At least I am confident that we're done. Aw heck.. I dunno.
One thing I do know is that Sandy Cheeks saves the day by finding six cents at school. I found nothing and while hubby is still outside (night class), I cannot with clear conscience count the nickel and penny until he arriveth.


Quickie:
I just sat down to watch the '94 version of the Flintstones movie and I am quite disappointed. The actors tried their best... but it wasn't enough.. really. I did happen to finish Final Fantasy III for the Nintendo DS as I took in this horrendous film.

Total found: 0.06
Total Thus far: 128.77

It's raining quarters!

Since Hubby is still technically on vacation, we ran a few errands and found some coins along the way. We scored five quarters today (a serious oddity!) and some other coins including a bermuda quarter. The first stop was the grocery store where we bought groceries for the next few weeks. We found $0.53 and the bermuda quarter at the coinstar machine in the store. Luckily the machine is right next to the coupon section where I found lots of great deals on things I intended to purchase anyway and I saved myself over $3.00! Stop two was Hubby's job where we picked up some paperwork (the man is never really on vacation...people of his profession never really are for some reason). We found $0.26 in the form of one quarter and one seriously bent penny (he dug it up from the ground with a pen). Stop three yielded $0.56 (two quarters, one nickel, one penny) as we went mall hopping for a little bit to get some exercise.

I've been feeling under the weather lately. While I'm not totally sick (no fever or anything like that), I just feel completely off-kilter. After conferring with a family friend, I think I may have the "holiday blues"- a mild form of seasonal depression. Looking around yesterday, I don't think I'm alone on this one- people seem a bit disillusioned. Where did all the holiday cheer go??

Total found: $1.35
Total thus far: 128.71

X-mas shopping- DONE!!

Today marks the absolutely last gift for everyone on our list- except for each other, that is. Hubby is an extremely hard person to shop for.. so i'll be watching out for deals and such. As we purchased a few items at a local Costco, we found a total of seventeen cents (a dime and seven pennies). Hubby emptied out his ping bag from our seattle trip and found seven pennies from various parts of seattle, tacoma, and yakima- aka wine country! We have added the pennies to today's total.

Update- I am so exhausted from the weekend trip! The jet lag has affected us all- hubby's coming down with a cold, my ears feel like windtunnels, not to mention my appetite is completely off-whack. To all you frequent flyer folks and stewardesses, I don't know how you do it but I sure wouldn't want to trade places with you!!!

Total found: $0.24
Total thus far: 127.36

Back from vacay #2...

The pic shown here is two of my mother in law's champion siberian huskies- lots more pics of them to come in the next few weeks :)

Our weekend trip to Seattle was amazing! While we didn't find much change, we did see some nice sights as we rekindled the family flame. We came back with a nice chunk of change ($1.22 in dimes, nickels, and pennies). I'll post stories and pics tomorrow since i'm tired and still celebrating my own personal holiday.


Total found: $1.22
Totall thus far: $127.12

2 is the new 100.

Today two lonely pennies hitched a ride into the changepot. One was found at the school parking lot and the other at Toys R Us as hubby completed his preliminary shopping bout. Time certainly flies when you're not looking. This time last year, the change finds started to diminish just like it is now. It's ok- times change. I'll be out of town for a few days and hopefully hanging out in a different city will rejuvenate the found change fund.

Total found: $0.02
Totall thus far: $125.90

Found NOTHING today.

Found nothing today. I did happen to find my daughter's first christmas ornament in spite of all the shuffling of boxes during this year's hectic move. Ladies and Gents, the grinch officially stole last year's Christmas tree. Quel Dommage!!

---Change Counting update--

Total recovery!!

At long last I got a chance to sort through the found change and re-counted the totals. A few days ago I noticed a discrepancy and after discussing it with the family members, the culprit surfaced and admitted guilt, claiming to have"borrowed from the wrong jar" (I still can't see how there was an error since the Changepot is quite distinctive in my home. It never leaves the designated spot!!) While the guilty party tried to put the 3.10 back, I told them to keep it. I have adjusted the totals and having them put their own money would defeat the changepot purpose. Here are the adjusted totals and current denominations floating in my changepot jar:

Bills
20's- 2
10's- 1
5's - 3
2's - 2
1's - 14

22 Bills

Coins
dollar- 1
half dollar- 1
Quarters- 77
Dimes- 154
Nickels- 81
Pennies- 268

582 coins

Total $125.88 (yay!!)

Goal!!

Today the Krabs family found a total of 37 cents- the exact amount I remember paying for a stamp a while back. The letter was addressed to my hubby and the words were loving and flirtatious- ahh the olden days.

Sandy found two dimes, Kitty found a dime and nickel, and Papa Smurf caught two cents at the 23 yard line.

(GREAT GAME TODAY... SEAHAWKS KICKED BUTT 34-24.... YAYYYY!!!)

(Totals postponed until tomorrow ladies and gents)

Swing.. and a miss..

Today hubby found a few coins scattered around the island as he shopped for bargains. He brought home a skinny artificial tree that looks like a giant wire hanger with a few green limbs secured onto it for leverage. Oyy veyyy.

Sabado Gigante!

Hubby found four cents today. I spotted a cellphone on the New York Thruway this afternoon. While traffic was at a complete standstill, I did not pick up the phone.

Totals will be added tomorrow.. right now I'm off to nurse this looming headcold which I've developed during our mini-vacay...

Friday at the mall

We headed out for some black friday shopping (I ventured out at 4am!!!) and the Krabs found some noteworthy coins even in this unfamiliar territory. Right off the top of my head I remember three specific finds but I know there was more.. many more (which is why my totals are missing since Tuesday)

Find #1: nickel and penny at Walmart as a down-on-their-luck solicitor asked for some money. I pointed to the ground and said "There's a bit.. why haven't you taken the coins?" She replied "I don't like the kind that jingles- I prefer the kind that folds". I shrugged my shoulders, bent over and picked up the coins and went about my merry way.

Find #2: Nickel by the perfume ninjas (aka the fragrance boutique sampler people). I pefected the scoop and swat before she got too close with the overpowering colognes.

Find #3: Dime by the Piercing Pagoda- as we bought pretty little earrings for my friends baby, hubby secured a shiny new dime for our troubles :)

Turkey Day

As we awaited the final fixings of our turkey meal, I again took the kids to the same playground and found in the exact same spot as yesterday, another circular object that looked ridiculously worn yet questionable. I picked it up and squealed in delight as it was a real quarter (Georgia state quarter in fact!) Not too far from the quarter was a pretty 2006 nickel.

(total update pending)

Wednesday, November 22, 2006

Day one of our family vacay started a nice change streak. Before leaving our island, we found two quarters as we filled up the car with gas. Hubby found himself a dime by the coffee machines (he waited while this dangerous looking biker prepared his coffee. He walked off and hubby scooped it up for our lil' pot. As we headed northbound on the Interstate, we found two pennies by a vending machine.

Later on in the day, I took the kids to a play area and found a FAKE quarter discarded under a park bench. I picked up the fake coin and placed it in my change purse (I think I may have the entire play set.. i'll check later lol).

(Total will be updated on Sunday folks)

Tuesday, November 21

Today we found a total of 97 cents (3 quarters, 2 nickels, 1 dime, 2 pennies) and a few foreign coins which were conveniently placed right by the bottle redemption area of our local supermarket. Apparently no one likes foreign loot... oh well.. more for me!!

New foreign country coin(2): We got our hands on a 1967 Australian nickel and a recent east carribean quarter... yippee!!

(totals will be added up on Sunday, November 26)

The PS3 fallacy

I got a bogus email offering a brand new PS3 for three hundred dollars this morning. I knew it was garbage since it had awkward ebay headers and a hotmail email address... what lengths they go to in order to scam the commoner.. geeessh!


Hubby found five pretty pennies today. I managed to clean my living room and rearrange the furniture accordingly. Yippee! I found a bottle of my favorite linen spray... double hooray.



ROAD TRRIPPPPPP ALERT!!

The Changepot will be on hold for a few days as I may/may not have 'net access where i'm headed. I'll jot down the finds (if any) on a daily basis and report the finds accordingly (though I'm sure I'll find a few gained pounds instead of cash on this mini-vacay lol). Happy Gobble Gobble day y'all!!! Be sure to catch them Cowboys on the tube! Oh and Long live Tryptophan!

Total found today: $0.05
Total thus far: $123.45 <-- I have got to play this in tomorrow's Lotto. This is toooo cool to ignore, wouldn't you say??

SCORE!!!

Shoutout to Mike H. for cursing three times during tonight's game... I live for your rants dude! :)

As predicted, the Krabs family raked in a whopping $4.34 in found change. I would personally like to thank all the enthusiastic college students which contributed either willingly or reluctantly- since the majority of the quarters found were all around campus OUTSIDE of the buildings. Love those smokers!

Here is an inventory of what we found on this rather blustery day:

11 quarters
8 dimes
11 nickels
24 pennies

Foreign and other coins:
1 Trinidad coin (25 cents)
1 St. Tropez casino cruise coin
1 Super Laundry coin token
1 Bermuda coin (25 cents)
1 British coin (10 pence)
1 odd silver saint medal (looked like a dime so I picked it up)
1 Charter member PGA tour partners club round thingie (not sure what this is)

We're on our way to recycle some cans and pick up some snacks for our 4 o'clock game. Hubby and I have bonded over football lately.. gooo Seahawks!!!

**Update (1857 hrs)**
Bottle & Can redemption: $5.50
and just one question (about the game)... who the HE&* were you throwing to, Seneca???


Total found: $9.84
Total thus far: $123.40

Day two of Zero Finds

Today was yet another official day that the Krabs family found nothing on the ground- not even a trinket. The Changepot is hungry but the patrons are holding on to the coinage thus far. Hopefully Sunday will provide a hearty meal as the four of us are going "hunting" in various spots.

Side note: Today we saw the film "An American Haunting". After having read some background on the Bell Witch prior to seeing the film, I was quite disappointed. Fortunately Wikipedia's account of the haunting made it all worthwhile.

On this day last year, I was too busy thinking about Butterflies and didn't document found change. This is what I posted.

--
Accounting error:

While I am not quite sure how it happened, the changepot is short exactly $3.10. I am thinking somehow a little coinage got mixed up in Sandy's bag while she counted the total earlier this week. A little more detective work is in order. I'll post the details as I gather them.

Here is the actual corrected coin and dollar totals that are inside the changepot as of November 18, 2006:

Bills: 21
Total dollar value: $78.00

Twenties: 2
Tens: 1
Fives:2
Twos: 2
Ones: 14

Coins: 468
Total coin value: $35.56

Dollar Coins: 1
Halves: 1
Quarters: 58
Dimes: 144
Nickels: 63
Pennies: 201

Deviating from the topics at hand...

Despite the fact that today was a beautiful day with lots of foliage, blue skies for miles, and lots of smiling happy faces, we found NOTHING on the ground. We did discover a 1920 buffalo nickel in a roll of nickels my daughter purchased while filling her circulated coin collection folder. The nickel was safely tucked away into a growing pile of rare coins which will be appraised sometime in the spring. Since it's Sandy's coin, she'll decide its fate then.

Fake $20 = $10,000+ 3 years in prison?

Today's laser printers can be quite noteworthy in printing currency but uncle Sam's press still prevails. Check out the story of a poor, unfortunate struggling counterfeiter in good ole' Sheboygan, WI:

Woman tries to use $20 bill that is blank on one side

Associated Press
Nov. 13, 2006 07:42 AM

SHEBOYGAN, Wis. - A woman's attempt to pass a counterfeit $20 bill at a gas station was easily foiled when the clerk realized something odd: It was blank on one side.

Leah R. Jarolimek, 21, of Cedar Grove, was charged with a felony count of forgery after her failed attempt to buy chips and cigarettes, according to a complaint filed Friday in Sheboygan County Circuit Court.

Jarolimek handed her driver's license to the clerk early Wednesday to prove she was old enough to buy cigarettes and the bill, according to the complaint. The cashier told police the bill was placed face up on the counter but it felt suspicious when she picked it up.

Teresa Wells said she flipped over the bill and found it blank. Jarolimek replied she didn't know it was fake, the complaint said.

Wells said Jarolimek had to pay for the chips, which had been opened. When Jarolimek went to her car to get money, Wells copied Jarolimek's information from the driver's license.

Jarolimek faces up to three years in prison and a fine of $10,000 if convicted.

On the found money front:

2 Dimes

4 pennies

graced us

despite the rain

while hubby read plays

that sounded

much

like

Haikus.

Total found: $0.24

Total thus far: $116.66 (ewww.. what an ugly number! Perfect for the November Rain)

Dollar Bill Heaven!!

Today was a highly unusual day for change hunting. While Sandy, Kitty, and yours truly found no money whatsoever, Hubby found enough change for all of us for the entire week! I am so shocked! He found a total of three (3) dollar bills, six quarters, four dimes, six pennies, and a canadian coin (which will be added to the foreign change found jar). All three dollars were found in parking lots (three different ones of course). One of the bills has some cryptic writing on it that says "0725 2 st bx 50 cent ticket" in blue ink. A Washington is still a Washington, though. This bill will have to wait a year before going anywhere else! Bill Two was found perfectly folded and hiding in the grass outside a Subway's sandwich shoppe. Bill Three was discovered stuffed inside a coin return slot by a municipal parking meter where Hubby parked briefly to get some work done. I haven't had the full scoop on the other money just yet.. he was quite excited with the dollar finds (I can't blame him).

Side Note: On to happier news: My Sandy brought home a stellar report card today. According to her school principal, if Sandy would have scored an additional five points in Science, my little girl would have been in the honor roll. I don't care if she didn't make the silly honor roll, I think she is special either which way and I wouldn't trade her for anything.... love you Sandy Cheeks!!!!

MOMMY IS VERY PROUD OF YOU BABY.














(here's a face only my Sandy Cheeks could love!)


Total found: $4.96
Total thus far: $116.42

Unusual winter we're having, hmm? (updated)

After reading Jim's Post on Wood over at One Coin at a Time, I started thinking about our recent weather pattern. Since I no longer live in a home with a fireplace, I pretty much have to depend on the heater for now. My parents do have a fireplace but they aren't planning on lighting it because of the potential hazard of setting the place on fire (mom is super cautious). How's the weather elsewhere?

Found Coinage alert: Today's total comes from two places. Hubby found two quarters and a nickel while at work and three pennies were found during our quick Christmas shopping bout at Target. We usually don't start shopping for Christmas this early. I am shopping for one specific family that I've known for years (twenty five, in fact). My very best friend since FIRST GRADE which I'll have the privilege of joining for Thanksgiving dinner this year. Thanks for putting up with me Ro!

Preliminary found change overall update #1:
October started off as quite a great month here in year two of the Changepot. The twenty dollar bill find on Halloween wrapped up an awesome change find streak here. Hubby and I moved the Changepot Savings account over to a higher interest bank (a 4.0% increase in interest). The children are quite into numismatics after attending their first coin show early last month. We bought Kitty a new toy called "Pig E Bank" ($14.99 online, $8.99 at your local Costco by the way) which identifies coins by denomination and squeals "Feed me!" She's asking for chores just so she can earn a few coins to put in there... I love it!!! On the flip side, our daily totals are starting to decrease due to odd weather and lack of traffic at the mall. Hubby says it's because people are gearing up for the holidays. I think it's more like people are into using plastic than carrying actual cash- who knows? Total Money found as of November 13, 2006- $490.96

Total found: $0.58
Total thus far: $112.04

It's Mater (as in Tow-Mater)

I forgot just how loveable the Tow Mater character is in Disney's Cars. I figured I'd drop in to update before I forget :)

Today's finds:
11 dimes (thanks Sandy for the stealth finds!!)
4 nickels
4 pennies
1 GSP token
1 Bermuda coin
1 odd Angel gold colored coin (no markings, just an angel on both sides)

Yep.. today was a good day fer shure. Now it's back to the umpteenth viewing of CARS with my favorite people.

Total found: $1.34
Total thus far: $111.46

Check this out... you can find the original article here: Man fights with city over money found at scrap heap


Man fights with city over money found at scrap heap
Associated Press
Nov. 13, 2006 07:42 AM


NEENAH, Wis. - A sanitation worker who found $1,900 attached to a discarded desk at a city scrap heap says he deserves the money - but the city won't give it up.

"It's been very hard on me for being honest and then being told that because you're honest we're going to pat you on the back and take your money," David Voight said.

Voight, 52, found the cash in July, in envelopes attached by magnets to the underside of the metal desk at a junk drop-off site. Voight turned the money over to police and waited for someone to claim it within 90 days.

Now that the 90 days are up and no one claimed the money, city officials have been wrangling over what to do with it.

City Attorney James Godlewski said the city owns the money if Voight found it within the scope of his duties, but if he was acting as a private citizen, it would belong to him.

Voight said he had permission to scavenge things from the scrap heap, and he was doing it on his own time when he found the money.

"It wasn't mine to begin with," Voight said. "But it kind of rubbed me the wrong way that all of a sudden the council said since it was found on city property you can't have it."

Family is great.

Got to spend some quality time with my people today. Our change finds brought us a total of $0.70. We got one interestingly corroded penny that looks alot like Pacman. For those of you who don't remember the 80's well, here's a refresher course on Pac-man. Gobble Gobble!


Total found: $0.70
Total thus far: $110.12

Quickie X2

Today was so beautiful outside!! We found a little coinage here and there but the motherload waited for us at Dunkin' Donuts by our old house. I'm rather pooped so I'll write the accounting stats for now and I will interject later.

Total found: $1.06
Total thus far: $109.42

A Quickie...

In all our travails held on this beautiful pre-Veterans day, we only found twenty one cents (2 nickels, 11 pennies). Still, it was a good day because I ate a succulent breakfast at the BKS Bistro.... such nice service there....


Total found : $0.21
Total thus far: 108.36

Add another six to the pot...

Today we found a total of six cents. Sandy found a 1941 wheat penny and I unearthed a pretty filthy nickel on the way to the drugstore. I think I'd been spoiled the last few weeks with the over one dollar finds and the like. Methinks this is a lesson in patience and humility :) Update: Hubby came home with three dimes, one nickel, and five pretty pennies. There's much change to be found after yesterday's rain apparently.





Total found : $0.46
Total thus far: 108.15

Sidebar: I'd like to personally welcome the Roccos into the found change blogosphere. While they have only been collecting found change and separating it since August, the totals are quite impressive. Keep up the good work! You can check out their beginning blog here -->Piggy Bank

Short and Sweet...

Hubby found a nickel outside of Michael's today. I feel so rich!! There was a complete power outage by the mall- causing us to change dining plans for the evening. I will never have Applebee's again. I'd rather cook ::shudder:: .

Got yesterday's penny and am going to update the post to reflect Sandy's well-deserved find.

Total found today: $0.05
Total so far: $ 107.69

Woe is me...

Sandy found one penny today but since I didn't receive said penny, I can't count it towards the total for today. I didn't find money, I didn't vote- nothing. ZIP. Zilch. I did find an extremely cute pattern for a crochet sweater on the internet that I may try at some point. Oh.. and I did get a very funny email by my greatest friend in the whole wide world, the $900 richer "A". Ironic. She has had the worst luck for the past week or so... Karma police?? I still luvs ya, gurl...

Total found: $0.01
Total thus far: $107.64

Progress is coming...

Total found: $3.73- five quarters, twenty dimes, twenty three pennies, five nickels, two british coins, 1 finland markka, and one no cash value coin.

Source of change: Times Square, Central Park, School Campus (volunteer work pays off, folks).

Sooo tired.. will update later.. right now my feet are screaming at me.

Total found today: $3.73
Total so far: $ 107.63

The Wasteland...

Picture 1 used to show a typical pre-race scene at Fort Wadsworth (photo taken down at previous website). This year the portable bathrooms lined up where the buses are. Picture 2 shows the incredible mess left behind yesterday. Soon after the athletes left, flocks of charities, spectators, and cleanup crew emerged to pick at the leftover clothing.

This was my daughter Kitty's first glance at the NYC marathon. She was quite impressed. We managed to get her a huge orange ING balloon which kept her occupied as we helped collect coats with the local girl scouts.

On the change front, we managed to find five pennies- none of which hailed from the start site of the marathon. We came home with : an American Express Blue card (which I called to immediately report its whereabouts), three cases of Poland Spring Water (given to us courtesy of our friendly park ranger Chuck), a bunch of free magazines given to the runners and spectators, and two super cool fold away chairs which were left behind. All in all a pretty cool day, I'd say.

Total found today: $0.05
Total so far: $ 103.90

Pre-Marathon Jitters!

Tomorrow is the big NYC Marathon!! The fam and I did some quick October financial housecleaning (redeeming bottles, cleaning up $$$ messes, etc.). This being the second time we've redeemed since the inception of the fiscal year 07' changepot, we redeemed 75 cans/bottles. In addition to this courtesy cash (school, hubby's work, etc.), we also managed to pick up $0.31- (one dime twenty one pennies).

Thanks Bailey for the ING tip. I've been studying the rates rather closely and I am leaning toward this particular bank since there's one not far from where I live. Here's the link for those of you who like to copy and paste directly:

http://www.theapplebank.com/grandyielddirect/index.html

5.25% is quite attractive, methinks.

BTW, I've been playing the new Final Fantasy XII- WOW.. the graphics!! the storyline!! the gameplay system!! the characters!! RPGs have come a long way since that loveable lil' zelda dude in the 80's. Whatever happened to ULTIMA anyhow?

Total found today: $4.06 ($3.75 bottles, $0.31 in change)
Total so far: $ 103.85

Clean-up time.

2007 is creeping up on the horizon, folks. I'm already mapping out resolutions and assorted junk associated with a new year. One thing I've decided to do a little early is fix my banking relationships both on and offline. I realized just the other day that one account I've had for over a year was only yielding 0.25% EVERY THREE MONTHS!!! Fugedaboudit!

Change hunting yielded $1.63 today- two quarters, ten dimes, two nickels and three pennies. Three of the ten dimes and one of the pennies were found in a penny roll I bought at a local bank ($0.50 in pennies =$0.81 total). I found a liberty nickel (1904) and a beat up buffalo nickel (the date was faded) in another roll I purchased as well. Both coins are worth more than face value but since it wasn't "found change", I am not counting it towards the total. I also found a 1920 penny which much to my surprise was the last unfilled hole in my daughter Sandy's penny folder. Now it's time to work on Kitty's stuff...

Total found today: $1.63
Total so far: $ 99.79

Side post: What would you do?

A close friend of mine woke me up at 6am today with a particular dilemma.

Barb! Sorry to wake you up but I have a serious question to ask and it can't wait. I just found a plain white envelope with $900.00 on the floor. I'm at (--censored--) Gas Station at (--info undisclosed--). No one is around so I just picked it up. I'm in my car and I could drive away with it right now since no one is looking or asking around for it. Should I keep it or turn it in?

My reaction was almost automatic.

Turn it in, I said, and hung up the receiver. Nine Hundred isn't something I'd like to profess finding. I know there's a law somewhere that states if more than a certain amount is found, you must report it to the local police station. If no one claims it after a given amount of time, it's yours. In her case, I'm thinking someone absently dropped it. Nine hundred is a mortgage payment, or a car payment. Nine hundred could be someone's check recently cashed. I bet that 900 belongs to a gas attendant cashier who got careless and didn't realize what he/she dropped.

I've yet to find out what the verdict is: will she do the right thing and turn it in or will she take me and my extended family to lunch as payment for waking me up half hour before my alarm clock scheduled time?

A piece of advice for my dear friend A (finder of said cashola) who is probably reading this while sipping coffee at work right about now.

First, action really is happening -- it
is not an illusion.
Second, you really are responsible for your actions.
There is no outside force like the stars or some good or evil being acting
through you. When you are conscious, you are the one who decides what to do.
Third, your actions have results -- you are not just writing on the water --
and those results can be good or bad depending on the quality of the intention
behind the act.

What goes around, comes around what goes
up must come down, A!

UPDATE! -- After careful deliberation, 'A' decided to keep the cash and though she fully gets the karmatic implications this might have, she refuses to heed my prophetic words. It's not that I enjoy giving people a hard time, I just hate being the human handkerchief when tragedy/drama hits.

On a lighter note, hubby and I found a collective $0.49 in change today. The first nickel was unearthed in front of my new favorite place the 24 nail salon. They are true geniuses in the art of eyebrow waxing!
The rest of the change hailed from the greatest place in the world, my alma mater campus. I spent a few hours there waiting for my Graduate Advisor to show up. Although she didn't show, I had a fun time perusing the classrooms, collecting pennies and nickels (six nickels and nine dimes in all), and watching the undergraduates act out one act plays (I wonder what Michael Caine would say to these young idle thespians?)

Total found today: $0.49
Total so far: $ 98.16

The Coach is here!

I was feeling kinda bummed today for no apparent reason until late this afternoon when UPS rang my doorbell. It has arrived!!! My first free gift courtesy of Citibank Rewards:














COACH SOHO SIGNATURE MINI SKINNY
This versatile accessory functions equally well as a roomy wallet or as an all-in-one case for your credit and business cards, cash and iPod® Nano.
Outside credit/business card pocket
Zip-top closure
1 1/4" attached split keyring
Signature jacquard fabric with leather trim
Fabric lining
4 (L) x 4 1/2 (H)

It's my very first Coach item! I've bought Coach bags for my mom in the past but I've never purchased one for myself. In all honesty, I don't think I'd spend $38.00 on this item... I kinda prefer mine FREE, know what I mean? I also ordered christmas gifts for hubby's bosses so I can save some cashola to buy presents for the people that count.

Change HAPPENS:

While three of the changehunters found no change today, Hubby rescued the totals with three dimes and six pennies- all in one location. He also found the two dimes I knew we dropped in Kitty's booster seat. We're adding the dimes to today's total.

Total found today: $0.56
Total so far: $ 97.67

Happy Halloweeeeen Indeed!!!

Ahhh halloween... the world is swept up by auburn, orange, and gold. It's very Frost-esque around here- lots of pumpkins, leaves, and happy kids with overflowing goodie buckets. We took the kiddies to a few places which yielded some surprising results.

We didn't expect to find much change considering the evening all about the children.. haha! The found change front has good and bad news to report.

Bad News:
Kitty found about forty cents this morning (three dimes, two nickels) but some of the coins disappeared since the changepurse clip wasn't secure enough. We did make up for the change by finding a dime and eight pennies... now for the good news:

Good News:
I found a twenty dollar bill! It was funny because there must have been dozens of people who passed over this cash and didn't bother to pick it up. It is my first CASH twenty dollar find in this quest!! The fact that my three other companions didn't notice it makes me feel kinda special.. woohoo!! The twenty definitely makes up for the three missing dimes which might actually be in the backseat of my car. I'll check tomorrow... right now I've got a date with some tylenol and it's off to bed- early day tomorrow.

Total found today: $20.28
Total so far: $ 97.11

This time last year, I found twelve cents. This year we found $20.28. Yayy.

Biscotti Blues

I woke up with a major craving for almond biscotti. Rationalization came only after I brushed my teeth and saw the space where my wisdom tooth once was.. so I didn't give in. I stayed in the entire day today as the meds are still "working" on me. Fortunately hubby and Sandy cheeks came through with a whopping $0.57 in change- two quarters and seven pennies.

I'm looking forward to Halloween this year. Hubby is contemplating taking us to the village halloween parade- haven't been there in YEARS!

Total found today: $0.57
Total so far: $ 76.83

Pain.

**Quick note: Just finished watching "The Lake House"... Two thumbs up!! The movie was FANFRIGGINTABULOUS! or as Ne' would say, 'allz dat and some cool whup'. Keanu- you have redeemed yourself in my eyes, bud... I can honestly say this man has negated the awful effects of "the Watcher" and that film with billy bob thornton and tom cruise's robotic female wench (forgot her name).


Found today:

Half Dollars- One (0.50)
Quarters- Five (1.25)
Dimes- Twenty Seven (2.70)
Nickels- Twenty One (1.05)
Pennies- Thirty Six (0.36)

I am in too much pain to go into details. Thank you to the Krab family members who ventured out while mommy was KO for the greater part of the day. Perhaps i'll expand on this topic tomorrow when i'm feeling better ::sigh::


Total found today: $5.86
Total so far: $ 76.26

What a day!

While I am still in some serious tooth pain, I couldn't pass up an offer of free babysitting!
I apologize in advance if this post seems jumbled lol.

Anywhoo... Hubby and I stepped out to Atlantic City Saturday night- a virtual haven for found change. Details later! Earlier in the day, hubby and Sandy cashed in some coins for Abu and found the following in the rejection slot:

One Mexican Peso
One Canadian Dime
Three Canadian cents
One 100 Korean Won
a plastic dime with the word "COPY" on it

Sandy also found a silver dime in the rejection slot. Apparently coinstar machines don't like silver? Anywhoo, mom chose the amazon card option and is happily perusing the site for Christmas gifts. One smart cookie indeed! Shopping early is a major advantage.

Once hubby returned from the coin cashing, we went grocery shopping. As we walked into the Stop 'n Shop, Hubby noticed a wad of lined paper on the floor. I would have totally missed it.. this man has eagle eyes I swear! He picked it up before the wind did away with it (the gusts are no joke around here lately geez!). Inside he found some redeemed bottle slips worth exactly $21.00 but here's the catch... it was dated today at another store- in another borough!!! Fortunately there was a store here in Staten Island but it wasn't close either- about three miles or so by car. We drove to the store and happily cashed in the receipts. Twenty one dollars... good luck indeed. The lady handed us the first twenty dollar bill in changepot history. YAY!

Atlantic City was a whole nugget find altogether. We found NO slips whatsoever. What we did find was people leaving credits in the machine- especially the nickel and penny machines. As we cashed in the slips, we found a few quarters lingering in the return slot. The booty? $2.34 in change.

Funny event: We headed to our favorite casino first. As hubby sat down to play some "Spanish 21", I walked over to a blazing 7's machine. I inserted some money and played absently- throwing an occasional glance at hubby and his table activity. I didn't notice the three "7's" until the noise interrupted my thoughts. Basically I walked away from the machine with $75 won from a five dollar investment. Hubby walked away with a few hundred in the black. We were happy.

We hit four casinos altogether. They were SO PACKED. It still didn't deter us from finding money. I spotted what looked like a severly beat up five dollar bill tucked under a five times pay machine. From where I was standing it could have been a leaf too lol) Ironically, I watched two people use the machine, get fed up with the results, and walk away- not noticing the money underneath (then again it is hard to see when you're eye level with the machine). I sat down, inserted my card, pried the green from under the machine, took out my card and walked away with a series 2003 changepot five (the first for Changepot 06'). Sorry Lincoln, you shouldn't look so beaten up like that! Not one slip in Caesars, Bally's, Trump, or Sands... geez!

Hubby found a dollar machine with ten credits at the Taj. Apparently the gambling folks don't appreciate the reclusive dollar Jeopardy! machines anymore. It's not that they don't like Jeopardy. The penny slots are the new craze it seems. The rest is history.

Now it's time for Sunday morning pancakes with my happy clan. Hopefully a penny or two will complement today's changepot total? Quien sabe.

Total found today: $38.44
Total so far: $ 70.40

Wisdom or Folly?

Today the doctor removed my bothersome tooth. I felt as though he was prying my jaw out through my mouth. Apparently I'd forgotten just how much wisdom tooth extraction hurts... luckily my bright young dentist was available to re-acquaint me. The minute I walked into that room I felt like one of pinhead's victims in "Hellraiser"- the tools on the table looked so primitive and gory ::shiver::. The doctor quickly disposed of the ugly dark tooth despite my half-hearted moans about wanting to see it. Halloween indeed.

I felt bad because hubby wanted to go out and I was in absolutely no condition to go anywhere. We did manage to run a few errands before my face puffed up. Today's finds were all hubby. He found a penny while getting my meds, another penny by the subway counter (the kids wanted meatball subs since mommy was out of commission), and a quarter and a penny at Blockbuster video (since I was in no condition to go out, he made it a blockbuster night). Sandy found nothing and seemed a bit bummed since it was day two of no finds for her. I gave her a hug and told her not to despair. The holiday seasons are approaching after all, people will be dropping much more change than usual. She smiled and drifted off to sleep peacefully.

The rain and howling winds outside sound awfully scary right now. Time to curl up into a medicated little ball of flesh while mother nature takes the spotlight tonight.

Total found today: $0.28
Total so far: $ 31.96

92 days ago...

The Changepot wasn't fed either! Today we found NOTHING. I didn't go out since I'm on meds and kitty stayed home with me. The two changepot experts were dispatched early in the morning- equipped with change purses and sanitizers. The difference between the four days in July (12,15,17, and 26) and today's non finds are:

#1. Sandy went on a class trip to a place where we FREQUENTLY find change. She found nothing.

#2. Hubby went to three locations of work, night class, and the gym (three prime change spots). He found nothing (well.. does a coke can count?)

Perhaps friday will be a good day for the pot. Who knows?

Toodles!

Lucky number 13

Today my wisdom tooth decided to yell at me for not taking good care of it. After an impromptu visit to the doctor, I am now on medication and awaiting extraction in a few days. Yay. Ugh.. antibiotics make me nauseous.

On the upside, Sandy found a dime while we waited for my medication. I spotted a penny in front of the store. Hubby found two pennies in front of Dunkin' Donuts as we made our way to our vehicle.

Total found today: $0.13
Total so far: $ 31.68

Black days ahead.

Found five pennies. Not much else going on today. Sandy found a few pennies but she's fast asleep- long day for the little tyke. I'll add them to today's total once she hands them over.

Total found today: $0.05
Total so far: $ 31.55

Music

Every time I hear trance music, I feel rejuvenated. A friend of mine found my alltime favorite trance track and sent it over in .mp3 format.. I am on cloud nine right now!!!!

Today sped by. Sandy found a penny on the way home from school. Hubby found a penny and a nickel on the way to the dealership. The family found three dimes and eighteen pennies while on our three mile powerwalk. My new walking partners Sandy and Kitty make me proud. They didn't fight. Today was a good day.


Total found today : $0.50
Total since 10/05/06: $31.50

The Earlybird gets the coins.

It pays to wake up early!

As most of you know, the NYC Marathon is a few weeks away so many folks are out before 8am doing their pre-marathon training. YAYYYY! Kit, Hub, and myself headed out to Jogger's Park at 7am for some morning sprints and strides. Our favorite lake didn't disappoint either!

While I've been a bit down (we sold our truck on Friday), I was happy to have seen some old friends today. Thanks for the memories, R.

Found Money Totals: Two quarters (one SILVER, one regular), twenty six dimes (three silver!), two nickels, and seventeen pennies. The dimes were scattered all over the place today... it was incredible!!! Three dimes haunted us at IHOP this morning. We actually left two pennies which got picked up right after we moved away from the register. We also found a french coin, a COPY of a penny, and a no cash value token. We get alot of odd coins by the lake here. I overheard one ranger talking about an egret swallowing a silver dollar. I wonder if the egret popped that sucker out and if so, where is it now? hehehe. He gave kitty a bag of teddy graham brand crackers and my daughter looked at him suspiciously. She is no fan of strangers giving her things. Luckily she accepted the uncirculated silver dollar given to her at a recent coin fair... that puppy's now worth seven dollars.

Best Find of the day: As Hubby and I lugged heavy grocery bags into the house, Kitty walked slowly-bag in one hand, puppy in the other. Just as I turned around to call her one last time, I spot her bending over and what she said was absolutely priceless:

"Guys. You're too busy to pick up ping? Baby found a ping."

She walked up with one exceedingly dark nickel and placed it in her pocket defiantly.

"It's mine for now mommy. Your hands look busy."

Now that's what I call courtesy.


Total found today : $3.37
Total since 10/05/06: $31.00

OktoberZOOfest 2006

Today we headed out to the Bronx Zoo for the "Boo at the zoo" jamboree. We partied, made treat bags, and drank some refreshing Snapple Kiwi Strawberry served by none other than celebrity fit club alumni and local city celebrity Wendy "The Snapple Lady" Kaufmann. She was such a sweetheart! She was telling me of a few online ventures she's working on to launch in January 07'. I am so proud that she is able to branch out from the "fit club" stereotype- Go Wendy! She is starting a new clothing line for

plus size women- check out the website here: Wendywear. Personally I think she looks fabulous. You be the judge!

Found money front: Prior to getting over there, the Sandster found a quarter and five pennies at the local gas station where we spent a whopping thirty bucks and ACTUALLY filled the tank... YAYYYYY!!!! Hubby found $0.28 at the zoo (one dime, eighteen pennies) in odd places. We ended the day with some savory chinese food at my favorite place- Fortune Hawaii! Good times, good company....today (like all days of late) was a good day, my friends.















(congrats to hubby who took this excellent shot of 'the bored bear'. I think he'll make one good photographer someday!)















The New and Improved Little Rascals 2006- Who said eating pizza was boring?




Total found today : $0.58
Total since 10/05/06: $27.63

Odd day... odd finds.

This morning started off rather loppy here at the Krabs' house. Sandy woke up late for school, hubby forgot to leave me the car seat, and Kitty was unbelievably moody all day. The rain just fell HARD right around the time I had to pick Sandy up- our hill was quite sleek but manageable.

Sandy came home smiling with two pennies in hand. Hubby was quite proud of his quarter and penny find right by the steps of the building where he works. It was Kitty's find that stunned us all as we headed toward the Bank just moments before it closed.

New Rule: When a kid exclaims that they have found something, do not ignore them!

The time was approximately 4:57pm. This particular bank closes at 5:00pm on Fridays but it stays open until 5:10 or so while the gov't employees file in religiously. We'd barely made it and I was just about to walk in when suddenly Kitty tugs on my pants and proudly exclaims "Mommy, mira... ping!" and points to a far off corner of the parking lot.

I studied her for a second and decided to stay outside while Hubbs and Sandy stood outside. We walked over to the aforementioned area and this is what I found:

Two neatly folded $2 bills (yes.. two dollar bills... I am quite shocked.)
One Susan B. Anthony Dollar (the second susan b. found this year)
and one funky metallic black earring (no value but gawdy enough to mention nonetheless).

Kitty found us three dollars. 'Nuff said.

(Edited at 6am 10/21/06: Total oversight on my part. Kitty found us five dollars. I can't even blame liquor for my accounting error. Good thing I am not a banker by profession LOL)

Tomorrow we head off for a day of fun filled activities girl scout style. I'll be sure to check in with some meaty details.

Total found today : $5.28
Total since 10/05/06: $27.05

Happiness is...

a nice relaxing bath.

I am sooooo looking forward to my bath.

Sandy found a record 77 cents- three quarters and two pennies: One quarter on the bus, one in the lunchroom, and one in the schoolyard. The pennies were found by the bus stop. She is one happy camper.

Hubby found $0.35 in school as he walked toward the car. I gave him my special search light which allowed him to spot change miles away. Drive Thru ATM gave us two cents bringing today's total to $1.14
- at this rate we'll be ridin' dirty just like Chamillionaire!


Total found today : $1.14
Total since 10/05/06: $21.77

SavingAdvice's $20 challenge

As I peruse through the finance boards at Saving Advice, I am fascinated with how my fellow PF enthusiasts are making $20.00 grow. Here is the link for the challenge I'm discussing : $20 Challenge. I tried getting into this but I haven't had much time since the move and plus- i'm running out of money-making ideas. Right now I do PTR's when I have some free time. I've received a couple of dollars in Paypal (just enough to buy some Christmas gifts through Ebay). So far I got hubby a kung fu dvd and the girls each get brand new piggy banks- courtesy of online money.