Financial Roundup - March 2026

 March has felt like a long month in some ways, especially with all the doom and gloom in the news every day, but we got through it. Financially, it's been a bit more challenging, mainly due to my own spendthrift ways.

I didn't keep as tight a rein on my spending in March, hence why I struggled towards the end of the month. I spent much more in charity shops, around £50 or so, which was in excess of what I had budgeted for. I was happy with everything I bought, but paid the price as I got toward the end of the month and had to use April's budget for the last weekly shop.

As a consequence, I need to really keep a tight control on spending in April, with very little room for any purchases other than food and household items. I just need to focus again.  Luckily, I don't have any birthdays or major expenses on the horizon this month, which is good. All the Easter eggs and food have been bought.

One positive from March, was that I did get my eyes tested and didn't need to buy new glasses, as my prescription had changed very little. I think I am going to take OH up on his offer to pay for some new lenses in some old frames I have, which is kind of him.

My dental check up is still overdue. I just can't face it and I will need to pay an additional £75 for a clean, as the dentist has said this is necessary. (I personally don't want it or feel it is necessary) I'm also concerned that they will find additional treatment to prescribe, although I don't currently have any issues. It's not good when you start putting off health checks because of financial concerns, it's a slippery slope.

Anyway, I'm hoping to receive some interest payments on some savings accounts this month, so if I'm desperate, I can always dip into those, although I'd much rather leave them where they are if I can. I'm also hoping to hear from some pensions which are due to start paying out later this year. I'm led to believe that they usually contact you six months before they mature, but we'll see if this happens. It would be good to have some updated figures with regard to what I can expect to receive on a monthly basis when I turn 60 later this year.

For now, I'm just plodding on, trying to keep things moving. whilst continuing to enjoy life without spending too much. I'm very fortunate that I have everything I need and don't want for anything.