I need to get out soon, but till I can get that surgery I'm stuck.
Right now my credit is going to shit and I'll be getting my net shut off and my phone. I was promised financial help from my now rich mom, and she has changed her mind. Im stressed out, pissed of and really close to snapping.
It's better than nothing. And I can't wait to get to Portland and stay there. Knowing that I'll be out of this city, out of this state is what keeps me happy right now.
1) be frugal when using things in their house (if you, say, use their shampoo, dont use the whole bottle, when eating their food, take something inexpensive and easily replaceable, like a sandwich and not, say, the leftover pasta they had made before you came over)
2) if you can not be frugal, be expected to pay your host back either with money, a replacement for what you used, or some extra special favor, like offering to wash your linens, vacuum, make dinner or something
That's it. Oh, and when you go out, offer to pay for yourself. If you know going into it that you cant afford it, make sure your host knows that you will not be able to pay your way so they can make alternate plans or offer to pay your way. Don't spring it on them when the evening is already done with.