How do you decide what to buy when you have so little money? 

Toilet paper or tampons?

Shampoo or aspirin?

Detergent or an ACE bandage for my daughter's jungle gym sprain?

All the things you can't buy with food stamps. Which we receive.

That reminds me. I missed my second TANF appointment yesterday. I'm too poor to pay attention but I just keep balking at this one. If one qualifies (the payments range from $150-$561 per month), one is then required to spend Monday - Friday, 9-5 somewhere in the Welfare Office filling out job applications.

A couple of things about this. First, even if we were awarded the maximum (and we wouldn't be, with "only" the two kids), we'd still couldn't make it financially. 

Second, I'm entirely grateful for all the help we receive. And, almost without exception, the Welfare workers have been respectful, sympathetic and helpful.  I'm sure that application-filling-out, full-time job comes with enough support and direction that I'd likely find something. But, even if I found a job today or tomorrow, it will be too late. 

Third, the writer in me almost slobbers at the prospect of experiencing that 'job'. As a reporter, I'd love to do it. As a Mom, I'm better off begging on the internet.