This week, Elisa experienced a death in her close family. She's understandably upset, but she's handling things as well as one can when something like this happens.

We've spent a lot of time together (she's staying at my house for a few days), and the visit has been oddly refreshing, although it came out of tragedy. We've put aside our contest and our strict personal finance rules and allowed ourselves to enjoy life in the way we both love to -- sharing meals at Al's, enjoying movies, watching live music. We even bought a couple candles and a book.

These material comforts do cost money, and we haven't forgotten that, even in a time of crisis. But if twenty bucks can buy a hurting friend some measure of relief ... and even pleasure ... during a time of tragedy, I think it's money well spent.

It's hard for Elisa to talk to anyone right now, and I'm out of a phone. We'd both appreciate it if personal messages were directed to our emails (cheapwomencarrie@gmail.com and cheapwomenelisa@gmail.com) instead of the comments section of the blog.

Thanks. Elisa knows our thoughts and prayers are with her.