The DU Lounge

left for college! (however, paying on the other end with his tuition/board bills)

I think you're getting your food at a very low cost - maybe Aldi? I shop at HEB here in Houston, which is one of the mid-range stores. I paid $9/lb for lean hamburger last weekend, but that pot of spaghetti will last 3-4 meals with no kids in the house!

There are always ways to save. When my kids were young and we gathered food for the food bank here (via Scout programs, etc) - they always had really good lists including vegetables, beans, etc - things that were basic and nutritious but not fancy by any means. But, as you drill into minutia, I'd urge you to open up to the wider issues.

Our gas is cheap here in TX, also, because we are near the refineries - but when it's super cheap the industry starts laying off our neighbors. Also, when they ease air restrictions, then we got some odd smells in the air. So, I'm always trying to look at all of the factors. Is it worth it to save ten cents if it gradually brings down life expectancy.

Make no mistake, this administration is only looking out for the billionaires. We are only of interest to them if we can run their robots and fix them when they crash.