We had some challenges during the first month of 2025. My joint pain continued from my wrist to my jaw. Once it reached my jaw, I spent some time looking around the internet for any things that I can do to stop the inflammation attacking my own body. It led me down to an Auto Immune Plan (AIP) diet. I was pretty much open to anything to stop further joint pain so I decided to give it a try. Mr. MMD helped me a lot on this since I was already feeling very discouraged. Once I printed the 2 week meal plan, he shopped and we cooked the food for the week. I’m now on my 3rd week on the diet. I was losing weight, because I have to give up grains and dairy, but I think I got it under control now. It is still too early to tell if the diet is working. I still have some pain that moves around my body but it’s not as bad as the first 2 episodes. However, I don’t have any new big joint pain and I’m not on any medication, aside from the supplements that I’m taking.

Aside from my undiagnosed disease, our household also caught some nasty virus. MBP missed school for a week, Mr. MMD caught the same bug and was in bed for a couple of days and AHP had a mild fever. I also got some cough and cold and ache and stiffness on my joints. It was tiring but I’m hoping that we have better days.

Aside from being sick, the kiddos also started playing basketball. I was at least able to go to all the practices and games. It was hard to cheer while my jaw was in pain, but I’m thankful that at least I was there.

We spent $4,296 in January. We don’t really have any big purchase this month, but I expect some big changes on groceries and healthcare as we navigate my illness this year.

Groceries – $1,524.53

This is a pretty hefty increase on our budget. We used to eat very little meat, but my diet basically consist of meat and vegetables, with a focus on nutrient dense meal while eliminating foods that are high on lectins or food that can cause inflammation. We are still getting use to this and it is hard cooking different meals for everyone. I’m actually enjoying some of the meals here, especially bringing back the meats. I am hopeful that this diet can at least minimize the joint pains and helped me heal.

Healthcare/Medical – $795.25

As I mentioned, I had some health challenges and decided to see a functional doctor. This is a different doctor than a primary care doctor. I paid $299 for the labs and initial consultation. I also had some genes testing done. Mr. MMD bought a couple of eyeglass from eye buy direct for $122. One of the glasses were transitions. Our health insurance for Mr. MMD and I were $92.9 I also paid for 2 months of dental insurance for $73.64. I bought some meds and supplements from Costco at $32.9. I also paid for labs copay and labs for $35.02

Education – $356

This is for AHP preschool. This is his last year of preschool. He is super excited to go to Kindergarten. Time flew by so fast.

Gym – $320.91

Our YMCA membership are $173. Mr. MMD’s hockey league are $147.91.

General Merchandise – $270.54

This is the catch all of everything and this time includes the kids diaper.

Gifts – $200

My sister cashed the check from last Christmas.

Automotive – $129

Our 2011 Toyota Prius were due for renewal. This is the cost of the annual renewal.

Utilities – $127.24

Our sewer and water bill.

Clothing / Shoes – $114.87

Mr. MMD bought some shoes for $103.97 and I bought some joggers from Costco.

Dues and Subscription – $102.65

I paid $95 for the annual credit card fee of our Chase Sapphire Preferred. This is for Mr. MMD’s card. Amazon Prime is $7.65.

HOA – 91.21

The cost of living in our neighborhood. This pays for the park and trail maintenance.

Mobile – $85.32

We used quite a bit of data in November / early December

Restaurant – $74.14

We actually found a good restaurant that served really good ramen. This was before my diet. It will be a while since I can actually eat out in a restaurant.

Home Maintenance – $73.11

Some item for the house.

Gas – $30.05

One tank of gas. We didn’t go out a lot this month.

Online Services – $2.17

Cost to host this blog from Google Cloud Platform