On budget... what a tightwad.

My walks are getting quicker, and less sweaty. I think I will add a section of beach in the next couple of days. That should increase the walk by 30 min or so. I whipped up fried eggs and toast, with a side of fruit salad for breakfast today. Went down quite well. The funds I brought with me, are starting to get low, so I have planned a trip to the city on the morning of the 22nd. I had planned to do this trip on the 23rd, but I shelled out a bit of extra cash for kitchen stuff that will last me a while. Oil, sauces, butter, jam etc… I have been keeping a log of my day to day expenses, so I will be able to take a look at how my budgeting is going. This leg of things was always going to be more expensive than once I settled somewhere with the comforts of a city, but not having eaten out yet, I must be doing pretty well. So far I think I’ve spent about $650, but that includes everything from my time in Bangkok, taxis, buses, boats, groceries, beer, smokes and all rent for the month etc… not too shabby! The last 3 days have been crazy windy. It’s O.K. by me, as it makes things far more comfortable than when the air is still. If this is “normal” for the Island a person could totally make use of a wind turbine and battery bank for daytime power if needed. There are a lot of solar set ups in use, but I only see a few people gathering wind. Maybe this type of wind is not that common. The heat rash is 90% under control, with only 2 new spots flaring up where my shirt sleeves meet my biceps. Once I drop a few more lbs, that should take care of itself. On that note, even though it’s hard to tell when you look at yourself in the mirror everyday, I would have to guess that I have lost about 10lbs. I can credit this to the massive volumes of water, daily walking, healthy eating, and only moderate beer consumption. Still have a ways to go before I am at comfortable weight for daily life here, but it’s a good start. Just got to keep up this routine.