I usually check out 2 or 3 other blogs to see what they are discussing on finance and saving money. I enjoy Frugal Dad and Being Frugal but there are others to check out and see what they are discussing on their blogs. I am going to post a link at the end of this entry of the article I reference from Frugal Dad.
The title of this entry on Frugal Dad is "Too Broke to Buy Christmas Presents" and it discusses the downturn in the economy and buying presents for family, friends, co-workers, etc. I found it to be a really thought enticing post. What are your expectations for Christmas presents this year? If you, or someone you know, has been laid-off, is currently laid-off, what do you expect as gifts? Is it right to expect gifts from someone who just has had a hard time financially? If you really want to get someone a gift but cannot afford a gift? Or even if it comes down to paying a bill or buying a gift for a co-worker, what do you do? These are some serious thoughts this time of year! Who ever thought that as adults we might have to choose between buying gifts for a friend or paying the light bill?
I know I do good just to get family gifts bought each Christmas. I know my parents tell me to not worry about it but I still do. I have a few friends I want to buy for but just cannot do it as I like this year (and last year and maybe next year as well). Should I worry about buying everyone gifts? Naturally, most people would say "No, don't worry about it!" I sometimes feel this is what people should say but do they mean it? Do they really and truly mean it?
Instead of gifts, does time together with friends really make your day? Maybe time with friends at a local restuarant, coffee shop or even ice cream shop is exactly what they need. Or maybe having a few hours out with a spouse without the kids is what a friend needs. Maybe a great gift cannot be bought at any store.
Good luck out there with your Christmas presents this year!! I know this may sound overdone but try to enjoy your family and friends for they have, hopefully, stuck with you through gifts from good-times land and gifts from not-so-good land.
http://frugaldad.com/2011/11/07/too-broke-to-buy-christmas-presents/
Jennifer
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
Monday, December 5, 2011
Christmas Gifts and Second Thoughts
Christmas is fast approaching for me. While I have bought most of my presents, there are still a few I must obtain to completely finish the whole Christmas present thing. I do not know why I dread buying presents though. I just second guess myself with them and can only hope that the receiver of the gift will like what I bought them. I do try to put some thought into buying them a gift. This year, I have gone a bit practical with my gifts. (I will not mention right now what I have bought as a receiver of a gift may read this post!!)
Christmas comes the same time every year. I do try to buy some gifts when I can so the closer it gets to December, I will not stress out so much and end up settling for something because I am in a rush. Why do I seem to wait so long though? It is not like I am out there just "living it up" all year. I have all good intentions of making hand-made gifts but end up not making all that I wanted to for the people on my list.
I always seem to second guess my choices for gifts. Will they like them? What will they say when I am not there about this gift? Will they really use it? Will they appreciate it? Even in this downturn of economic greatness, I worry about Christmas gifts. Not like I have ever had a lot of money to buy people gifts but I always feel like I do not quite get the standard above-quality gifts for family members. Ever felt this pressure to get someone a gift that is not quite in your budget? Something you know they will like but will break your bank? Yep, that is my feeling with gifts this year and what seems like most every year.
Maybe I should stop worrying about them and hope that this year they will see that I am trying to get gifts they will use and maybe can appreciate it? Maybe I should. It is not about the gift is it? I would like to buy you the moon but can afford this little bit of dirt. I hope that you see it comes from my heart and I thought about you when I saw it. It has been a rough year for my money but my gift is from my heart. I hope you enjoy it!
Jennifer
Christmas comes the same time every year. I do try to buy some gifts when I can so the closer it gets to December, I will not stress out so much and end up settling for something because I am in a rush. Why do I seem to wait so long though? It is not like I am out there just "living it up" all year. I have all good intentions of making hand-made gifts but end up not making all that I wanted to for the people on my list.
I always seem to second guess my choices for gifts. Will they like them? What will they say when I am not there about this gift? Will they really use it? Will they appreciate it? Even in this downturn of economic greatness, I worry about Christmas gifts. Not like I have ever had a lot of money to buy people gifts but I always feel like I do not quite get the standard above-quality gifts for family members. Ever felt this pressure to get someone a gift that is not quite in your budget? Something you know they will like but will break your bank? Yep, that is my feeling with gifts this year and what seems like most every year.
Maybe I should stop worrying about them and hope that this year they will see that I am trying to get gifts they will use and maybe can appreciate it? Maybe I should. It is not about the gift is it? I would like to buy you the moon but can afford this little bit of dirt. I hope that you see it comes from my heart and I thought about you when I saw it. It has been a rough year for my money but my gift is from my heart. I hope you enjoy it!
Jennifer
Thursday, November 10, 2011
Discuss, Discuss, Discuss
The one thing that may seem odd, to some, is to discuss purchases with your spouse. Especially if you are on a budget and you discuss purchases you may feel is needed for you or your family. Sometimes, you have to even put things back (as much as it may "hurt" your frugalness).
Husband and I went to do some grocery shopping so we could have some more items to make for us to eat. The store was running a special on Hunt's canned spaghetti sauce - 10 for $10. Normally, they were $1.49 at this store. I saw the sale and proceeded to put 10 in the cart. After some more items added to the cart, Husband decided we needed to scale back to keep our total purchase price as low as we can. I was buying things on sale and only stuff I knew we would use, maybe not immediately but we would use it!! After some disscussion, the spaghetti sauce went back on the shelf. We have some at home we have to still use and husband did not want to buy them and not use up what we already have at home. In my head, I was screaming and kicking like a little kid!! I was just having a fit!! They were on sale!! We will use them!! I did agree to put them back though.
In an effort to at least talk about it, I was trying to see a solution in which we both would win and not just one of us would feel like a winner. Did I want to put them back? Nope, I sure did not!! I did it in order to compromise with Husband. We try to at least discuss things with each other. Was it odd to be doing this in the middle of our grocery trip? Yes but I would rather do that at that moment than have Husband hate me later for it.
Does it seem silly to disscuss simple little things with your spouse? Sometimes it does to me. But if we cannot discuss the little things, how will we be able to discuss bigger things? We have to have some open communication in there with each other. Not having a lot of money during the time we have been together has taught us to discuss things with each other and to be honest with each other. That has helped out a lot. We have had some fights but have came back to discuss things after we cool off. I usually want to make sure that both of us come to an agreement on something where both of us feel we win in the decision. It may not be exactly what we want separately but together, it may make sense. Open, honest discussion between us is good. It may seem silly to others but it works for us. Discuss and really listen to your partner. Find ways to compromise with each other. Your friends may say some things as a joke about having to do it but do not worry about it. Our lives have enough problems and if we can discuss things, little and big, with our partner, it is a good thing! It has been a process and continues to be one for us but I enjoy knowing that I can talk to Husband about anything. I know that I trust his decisions on some small things and I only hope that he feels the same about some of my decisions. In the famous words of mothers everywhere, "Try it! You might like it!"
Jennifer
Husband and I went to do some grocery shopping so we could have some more items to make for us to eat. The store was running a special on Hunt's canned spaghetti sauce - 10 for $10. Normally, they were $1.49 at this store. I saw the sale and proceeded to put 10 in the cart. After some more items added to the cart, Husband decided we needed to scale back to keep our total purchase price as low as we can. I was buying things on sale and only stuff I knew we would use, maybe not immediately but we would use it!! After some disscussion, the spaghetti sauce went back on the shelf. We have some at home we have to still use and husband did not want to buy them and not use up what we already have at home. In my head, I was screaming and kicking like a little kid!! I was just having a fit!! They were on sale!! We will use them!! I did agree to put them back though.
In an effort to at least talk about it, I was trying to see a solution in which we both would win and not just one of us would feel like a winner. Did I want to put them back? Nope, I sure did not!! I did it in order to compromise with Husband. We try to at least discuss things with each other. Was it odd to be doing this in the middle of our grocery trip? Yes but I would rather do that at that moment than have Husband hate me later for it.
Does it seem silly to disscuss simple little things with your spouse? Sometimes it does to me. But if we cannot discuss the little things, how will we be able to discuss bigger things? We have to have some open communication in there with each other. Not having a lot of money during the time we have been together has taught us to discuss things with each other and to be honest with each other. That has helped out a lot. We have had some fights but have came back to discuss things after we cool off. I usually want to make sure that both of us come to an agreement on something where both of us feel we win in the decision. It may not be exactly what we want separately but together, it may make sense. Open, honest discussion between us is good. It may seem silly to others but it works for us. Discuss and really listen to your partner. Find ways to compromise with each other. Your friends may say some things as a joke about having to do it but do not worry about it. Our lives have enough problems and if we can discuss things, little and big, with our partner, it is a good thing! It has been a process and continues to be one for us but I enjoy knowing that I can talk to Husband about anything. I know that I trust his decisions on some small things and I only hope that he feels the same about some of my decisions. In the famous words of mothers everywhere, "Try it! You might like it!"
Jennifer
Monday, October 31, 2011
Christmas Presents
How early is to early to start thinking about Christmas presents? Maybe it is never to early to start thinking about them. I am on a limited budget for presents but I definitely want to maximize my gift giving ability this year and the years to come. So, what can I do to help me along?
I remember being younger and on vacations with my family. During those summer vacations my mother would buy some Christmas presents. She would find things she thought others would like and buy those items. At the time, I did not understand fully why she did that. How odd to be buying Christmas presents in July!! Now, as I have grown older and am working, I completely understand why she has done this!! I try to do this myself when I can. I have started a snowman ornament collection for my sister and every year when they come out, I take my little happy self down to Hallmark and buy the current years ornament. I may do that in September or as soon as I have the money and know it is out. Too early? No way!! I know that is one present I will not have to buy and will be on my way to buying other presents for the family.
Back in 2009 I began to learn to knit. I had surgery and afterwards, would not be able to do a whole lot for several weeks after. What the heck am I going to do sitting at home? I was decades behind on soap operas and would not even recognize the people on them now so i decided to learn to knit. It has worked out great as I have given some knitted items for Christmas - dishclothes, knitted bags, scarves. I am working to complete to larger blankets for at least two family members for next year. Yes, you read that right, I did say next year. I hope that the family members that receive these gifts will keep them, and then use them for many years to come. I can remember receiving some blankets that my grandmother crocheted and have fond memories of her every time I see those blankets. That is what I want with my knitted gifts to do for the family members. Plus, knitting a gift adds a personal touch to things. I hope those who receive these gifts will proudly use them as well.
Buying early and making gifts on a budget allows me to give gifts I can be proud of giving. Not having to rush out and buy gift cards in the hopes that I do not look too thoughtless in giving them as gifts. Do not get me wrong, gift cards can be a nice way for someone to buy a little something for themself at a store they may normally not go to but I like to actually think of what someone might like, buy or make it for them and then give it to them at Christmas.
It is never too early to plan for gifts at Christmas. In fact, you may stress less. You will be in no hurry to get gifts and can take lesiurely strolls in the mall in December to enjoy the mall decorations and know that you have completed your Christmas shopping early and do not have to hurry, hurry, rush, rush to get gifts you hope someone likes.
Good luck!!
Jennifer
I remember being younger and on vacations with my family. During those summer vacations my mother would buy some Christmas presents. She would find things she thought others would like and buy those items. At the time, I did not understand fully why she did that. How odd to be buying Christmas presents in July!! Now, as I have grown older and am working, I completely understand why she has done this!! I try to do this myself when I can. I have started a snowman ornament collection for my sister and every year when they come out, I take my little happy self down to Hallmark and buy the current years ornament. I may do that in September or as soon as I have the money and know it is out. Too early? No way!! I know that is one present I will not have to buy and will be on my way to buying other presents for the family.
Back in 2009 I began to learn to knit. I had surgery and afterwards, would not be able to do a whole lot for several weeks after. What the heck am I going to do sitting at home? I was decades behind on soap operas and would not even recognize the people on them now so i decided to learn to knit. It has worked out great as I have given some knitted items for Christmas - dishclothes, knitted bags, scarves. I am working to complete to larger blankets for at least two family members for next year. Yes, you read that right, I did say next year. I hope that the family members that receive these gifts will keep them, and then use them for many years to come. I can remember receiving some blankets that my grandmother crocheted and have fond memories of her every time I see those blankets. That is what I want with my knitted gifts to do for the family members. Plus, knitting a gift adds a personal touch to things. I hope those who receive these gifts will proudly use them as well.
Buying early and making gifts on a budget allows me to give gifts I can be proud of giving. Not having to rush out and buy gift cards in the hopes that I do not look too thoughtless in giving them as gifts. Do not get me wrong, gift cards can be a nice way for someone to buy a little something for themself at a store they may normally not go to but I like to actually think of what someone might like, buy or make it for them and then give it to them at Christmas.
It is never too early to plan for gifts at Christmas. In fact, you may stress less. You will be in no hurry to get gifts and can take lesiurely strolls in the mall in December to enjoy the mall decorations and know that you have completed your Christmas shopping early and do not have to hurry, hurry, rush, rush to get gifts you hope someone likes.
Good luck!!
Jennifer
Monday, October 24, 2011
Groceries Need to Marry Coupons......Again
Husband and I went grocery shopping a few weeks ago at a different store - not Harris Teeter. Usually, I can do groceries at Harris Teeter and save some money. This time I suggested we do another store and I did not do so well. Even Husband said I did better at Harris Teeter. The bad thing is that I have let my coupon gathering fall by the wayside. Not good!!
I think that the groceries we buy need to hook back up with coupons. I need to start paying more attention to getting coupons and using them effectively with buying my groceries. When Husband said something, I knew I had messed up!
This made me realize that this coupon collecting and using needs to be a continous process but I also need to start doing some menu planning. Menu planning could help me to plan my grocery shopping trips. One thing I have been doing is making some food to see if Husband and Family Member will like them. I try to make enough for all of us to eat and possibly have some leftovers for the next day. I have come up with a few things that we like that I could do throughout the month. I do not want to become in a menu planning rut either. I do not want to eat the same things every two weeks. I am trying to rotate food and possibly have enough that we will not get tired of it and save some money as well.
How do you help save money on your groceries? Any tips will help me as well!!
Jenn
I think that the groceries we buy need to hook back up with coupons. I need to start paying more attention to getting coupons and using them effectively with buying my groceries. When Husband said something, I knew I had messed up!
This made me realize that this coupon collecting and using needs to be a continous process but I also need to start doing some menu planning. Menu planning could help me to plan my grocery shopping trips. One thing I have been doing is making some food to see if Husband and Family Member will like them. I try to make enough for all of us to eat and possibly have some leftovers for the next day. I have come up with a few things that we like that I could do throughout the month. I do not want to become in a menu planning rut either. I do not want to eat the same things every two weeks. I am trying to rotate food and possibly have enough that we will not get tired of it and save some money as well.
How do you help save money on your groceries? Any tips will help me as well!!
Jenn
Sunday, October 9, 2011
Razors and My Budget
At first, you may wonder what razors have to do with my budget. Well, with the way things cost these days, I have started really thinking about purchases, the costs of different items and the money I have to spend on some items. So, razors have just as much weight in my spending as even food and gas have in my budget.
I really like the lady razors that have the shave solid around the razors. I did not have to buy a razor and shaving cream/lotion, I could just buy the one item and be done with it. So far, there are only two different types of razors that have the shave solid around them and I just could not bring myself to buy either one of the replacement blade packages for them. The price of the replacement blades were a few cents more than buying a new razor all together. I am standing in the local drugstore on my lunch break debating which one, do I get a new razor or do I go with a regular razor and some shave cream. Yep, I was seriously going back and forth with "Which one do I get?" and "Do I really want to spend that much on it?" in my little brain.
Well, buying a new razor, replacement blades and some shave gel won out. The price was more economical for me and my budget. Plus with some buy one get one half off sale on the razor and replacement blades, I could not lose! The shave gel was on sale and I got two bottles of it.
I really like the lady razors that have the shave solid around the razors. I did not have to buy a razor and shaving cream/lotion, I could just buy the one item and be done with it. So far, there are only two different types of razors that have the shave solid around them and I just could not bring myself to buy either one of the replacement blade packages for them. The price of the replacement blades were a few cents more than buying a new razor all together. I am standing in the local drugstore on my lunch break debating which one, do I get a new razor or do I go with a regular razor and some shave cream. Yep, I was seriously going back and forth with "Which one do I get?" and "Do I really want to spend that much on it?" in my little brain.
Well, buying a new razor, replacement blades and some shave gel won out. The price was more economical for me and my budget. Plus with some buy one get one half off sale on the razor and replacement blades, I could not lose! The shave gel was on sale and I got two bottles of it.
Tuesday, October 4, 2011
Rambling Thoughts of the Sick
This past weekend I developed some sort of cold. It is not fun and after some trial with one over the counter medicine, I switched to a different one. The different one has helped a lot more than the first. The pressure has been taken away from my sinuses and I feel like I can do better at work. I have a medicine that I can use at night but I do not like to take it when I have to go to work the next morning as I still feel a little loopy. I will save that for the weekend!!
This lead me to think about being sick. People can usually tell if you have a cold or are not feeling well. You find medicine that helps ease the symptoms so you can go about your day and do what you need to do. But how can you tell if someone has a money sickness? I do not think you can. There are times that you can tell that someone is having financial difficulties - they may sell some of their items to make extra money, take on a part time job on top of their full time job, cut some corners with different stuff and that list could go on and on. But if someone seems all together, how do you tell they are financially sick?
As I have been doing lots of thinking about my finances and where I would like to go, I have noticed I have slacked off a bit with working on my budget. I have been exploring things like meal planning, coupons, sale racks, wearing stuff out before buying another item to replace it and even just going without because it does not make sense financially to do it. I just have not been putting in the extra effort to follow through with some of these things. That has been a downfall for me, I think. Wishing will not make it happen here for me, I must do. I must follow through. I must admit things to myself. I must stand in the truth of the situation and not be wearing my blinders. I must get my finances better. I must start following through. It has to get better because I do not want it to get worse. I have noticed a lot more thinking about things before I do them. Am I over thinking it? Possibly but at least I am starting to think about how buying something on a whim or because I "think" I need it will effect my money.
I have also went and bought a little notebook to start writing some financial goals down. I think if I see these goals, I might do better at striving to meet them the best way I can. I also think that sitting down with Husband a few times a week to discuss where we are and where both of us want to go might help too. He is part of the equation here so I should include him with this. That may be hard to do but I would rather be on the same page than have an argument over something that is not worth it. I do find that he has some good ideas and can help me to see things in a different light.
Now, I wil have to follow through to start making my money feel better. Oh it is gonna be hard but well worth it!!
This lead me to think about being sick. People can usually tell if you have a cold or are not feeling well. You find medicine that helps ease the symptoms so you can go about your day and do what you need to do. But how can you tell if someone has a money sickness? I do not think you can. There are times that you can tell that someone is having financial difficulties - they may sell some of their items to make extra money, take on a part time job on top of their full time job, cut some corners with different stuff and that list could go on and on. But if someone seems all together, how do you tell they are financially sick?
As I have been doing lots of thinking about my finances and where I would like to go, I have noticed I have slacked off a bit with working on my budget. I have been exploring things like meal planning, coupons, sale racks, wearing stuff out before buying another item to replace it and even just going without because it does not make sense financially to do it. I just have not been putting in the extra effort to follow through with some of these things. That has been a downfall for me, I think. Wishing will not make it happen here for me, I must do. I must follow through. I must admit things to myself. I must stand in the truth of the situation and not be wearing my blinders. I must get my finances better. I must start following through. It has to get better because I do not want it to get worse. I have noticed a lot more thinking about things before I do them. Am I over thinking it? Possibly but at least I am starting to think about how buying something on a whim or because I "think" I need it will effect my money.
I have also went and bought a little notebook to start writing some financial goals down. I think if I see these goals, I might do better at striving to meet them the best way I can. I also think that sitting down with Husband a few times a week to discuss where we are and where both of us want to go might help too. He is part of the equation here so I should include him with this. That may be hard to do but I would rather be on the same page than have an argument over something that is not worth it. I do find that he has some good ideas and can help me to see things in a different light.
Now, I wil have to follow through to start making my money feel better. Oh it is gonna be hard but well worth it!!
Thursday, September 22, 2011
Struggling with Wants and Needs
The hardest struggle right now about starting out on my budget journey is I am finding a lot of wants. I am trying to really think about purchases now and moreover, is it a want or a need. Do I want it because I think everyone else has one or do I really need it to survive? If I really want an item, can I find an alternative that is within a lesser price range that will satisfy that want? How will I use this item and how long do I think I will be "happy" with it? That is usually a tough one for me. Once I buy something, will I be happy with it a year from now, six months from now and when will I want a new one to replace this one? I am really starting to think about purchases and why I think I want it.
There are some simple needs that I do not question as much - food, gas in the vehicle so I can get to work and back, truck payment, student loan payments, vehicle insurance and some clothes/shoes/vitamins/even makeup. Most of these items need to be obtained or paid and I have no question on "Do I need or want this?" Some items like clothing and shoes I may delay so that I can save up for them or may even know if they are going on sale so that I can get them at a better price.
I think that because I am trying to think more of why I am purchasing something I can think about saving for it or do I really need that item at that price. Is this a "growing pain" in my budget planning? Am I thinking more and trying to make better decisions or am I just over thinking myself to death? At least I am thinking where as before, I would just make impulse buys and then later regret them. I am seeing some growth in some areas and need to grow more in others. It is a start, no matter the "growing pains."
Jennifer
There are some simple needs that I do not question as much - food, gas in the vehicle so I can get to work and back, truck payment, student loan payments, vehicle insurance and some clothes/shoes/vitamins/even makeup. Most of these items need to be obtained or paid and I have no question on "Do I need or want this?" Some items like clothing and shoes I may delay so that I can save up for them or may even know if they are going on sale so that I can get them at a better price.
I think that because I am trying to think more of why I am purchasing something I can think about saving for it or do I really need that item at that price. Is this a "growing pain" in my budget planning? Am I thinking more and trying to make better decisions or am I just over thinking myself to death? At least I am thinking where as before, I would just make impulse buys and then later regret them. I am seeing some growth in some areas and need to grow more in others. It is a start, no matter the "growing pains."
Jennifer
Tuesday, September 13, 2011
Meal Planning and Money
I have been asking some friends on Facebook about whether or not they do meal planning, the reasons why and how do they do it. Some seem to be focused around buying food to last between paydays for the families, some probably buy a little extra of what is on sale at that time to last a bit longer to help plan meals and then there is me, who did the quick easy fast food dinner. I am to the point that I cannot keep doing that and really need to change my habits. That means cooking at home. Even cooking some extra so that I can take for lunch the next day at work. Will this mean I start saving some money though?
For example, tonight I did a version of "Hamburger Helper" for dinner. I had one pound of buffalo meat, one can of pasta sauce, some spices and some wheat elbow macaroni. Smells really good. For the three people here in the house, it is surely enough for dinner tonight and some tomorrow for lunch. So, it is about $12.00 for all this food. For that much, we would not have gotten our money's worth at the local drive through. Certainly not enough for three to eat tonight and for tomorrow as well. Is it worth it? Yes, I think it might be. No waiting in lines, I know who made my food and what was put in it and the taste? It is good.
I am sure that by eating a little healthier is gonna cost a tad bit more. I had bison meat instead of regular hamburger. There is the reason the the cost is a little more. Bison is not as cheap as hamburger meat but I like the taste and it is a bit leaner. Husband does not like wheat pasta so much but this elbow pasta made from wheat is pretty good. I like the taste and it is a bit healthier for us. The spices helped make it a bit better by adding some flavor but not so hot.
"Hamburger Helper" it is not. Homemade it is. I can change the flavors next time if I want - add alfredo sauce, use spiral noodles instead of elbow noodles.
Okay, back to the menu planning. If I buy enough of some things on sale, can I plan meals at home and save money? I think I might be able to do this. Here is to hoping that I can get started on this little way to save money.
Do you have any tips, hints or helpful things you do to meal planning at home? Let me know!!
Jennifer
For example, tonight I did a version of "Hamburger Helper" for dinner. I had one pound of buffalo meat, one can of pasta sauce, some spices and some wheat elbow macaroni. Smells really good. For the three people here in the house, it is surely enough for dinner tonight and some tomorrow for lunch. So, it is about $12.00 for all this food. For that much, we would not have gotten our money's worth at the local drive through. Certainly not enough for three to eat tonight and for tomorrow as well. Is it worth it? Yes, I think it might be. No waiting in lines, I know who made my food and what was put in it and the taste? It is good.
I am sure that by eating a little healthier is gonna cost a tad bit more. I had bison meat instead of regular hamburger. There is the reason the the cost is a little more. Bison is not as cheap as hamburger meat but I like the taste and it is a bit leaner. Husband does not like wheat pasta so much but this elbow pasta made from wheat is pretty good. I like the taste and it is a bit healthier for us. The spices helped make it a bit better by adding some flavor but not so hot.
"Hamburger Helper" it is not. Homemade it is. I can change the flavors next time if I want - add alfredo sauce, use spiral noodles instead of elbow noodles.
Okay, back to the menu planning. If I buy enough of some things on sale, can I plan meals at home and save money? I think I might be able to do this. Here is to hoping that I can get started on this little way to save money.
Do you have any tips, hints or helpful things you do to meal planning at home? Let me know!!
Jennifer
Thursday, September 1, 2011
Hurricanes and Debt
This past weekend Hurricane Irene made her way through the East Coast. Since I live on the East Coast, it was a big deal. The normal things during such events happened - batteries, water and some food was scarce at the local stores, gas stations were getting REALLY low on gas and people were just in sort of a heightened state of awareness. Panic for some people did set in.
Being in debt and having a hurricane come near where you live can almost be similar. Just follow my logic here. Someone will understand me out there!! When you finally realize that you just cannot stay in your current financial state, you may start to feel a lot of things. Panic may be one of them. "Oh my gosh!! What do we do?! We have to do something!! Now!! We have to do it now!!" You may even start doing some research on how to prepare yourself for getting out of debt. You will probably find that you get so many different ways to start reducing your debt, get on a budget, eat less meat, shop on a budget and so on. It will seem like watching the different local channels during the hurricane - they all have advice, predictions and updates and all of them are slightly different. Where do you start?!
It has been a little overwhelming on my end, to tell you the truth. I have found different websites, books, authors and every day people who will give you advice for getting out of debt, getting on a budget and getting back on track with your life. The one thing that is helping me is cutting back on who I get my information from and how often. I check about three different websites/blogs on being frugal. I also am reading a book but I am going to limit the authors that I read to about three. One of those authors is Suze Orman and I am currently reading her book "The Money Class." I will try to post some on this book but so far, I am just getting into the book. I also want to learn a bit more from Dave Ramsey. He seems to have some success dealing with money. I have not gotten a book of his yet but I do plan to read some of his books. If you have a suggestion on which to start with, let me know.
So, in giving some advice on this one, find people you trust, people who tell you the truth and people who are honest with you about everything. Do not worry yourself crazy if you are not following different people and how they have dealt with money. Find a plan that works for you and your life. You may even want to include your family in on it. Have a clear plan and maybe even some wiggle room if things do not go exactly how you planned it. Also remember that this is new to you. It is new to me!! If you fall down or stumble on this journey, get back up, learn, really learn from why you stumble or fell and keep going. We will be okay. Just go and do not let others stop you!! Take control of this!! We will win. I am determined to do this!!
Being in debt and having a hurricane come near where you live can almost be similar. Just follow my logic here. Someone will understand me out there!! When you finally realize that you just cannot stay in your current financial state, you may start to feel a lot of things. Panic may be one of them. "Oh my gosh!! What do we do?! We have to do something!! Now!! We have to do it now!!" You may even start doing some research on how to prepare yourself for getting out of debt. You will probably find that you get so many different ways to start reducing your debt, get on a budget, eat less meat, shop on a budget and so on. It will seem like watching the different local channels during the hurricane - they all have advice, predictions and updates and all of them are slightly different. Where do you start?!
It has been a little overwhelming on my end, to tell you the truth. I have found different websites, books, authors and every day people who will give you advice for getting out of debt, getting on a budget and getting back on track with your life. The one thing that is helping me is cutting back on who I get my information from and how often. I check about three different websites/blogs on being frugal. I also am reading a book but I am going to limit the authors that I read to about three. One of those authors is Suze Orman and I am currently reading her book "The Money Class." I will try to post some on this book but so far, I am just getting into the book. I also want to learn a bit more from Dave Ramsey. He seems to have some success dealing with money. I have not gotten a book of his yet but I do plan to read some of his books. If you have a suggestion on which to start with, let me know.
So, in giving some advice on this one, find people you trust, people who tell you the truth and people who are honest with you about everything. Do not worry yourself crazy if you are not following different people and how they have dealt with money. Find a plan that works for you and your life. You may even want to include your family in on it. Have a clear plan and maybe even some wiggle room if things do not go exactly how you planned it. Also remember that this is new to you. It is new to me!! If you fall down or stumble on this journey, get back up, learn, really learn from why you stumble or fell and keep going. We will be okay. Just go and do not let others stop you!! Take control of this!! We will win. I am determined to do this!!
Friday, August 19, 2011
Small Leaks
I spent a month tracking my purchases and bills to see if there are any places I could fix. I noticed that I did have one small leak. Well, maybe two. It is at least two, if I am going to be honest here. The first is that on most mornings when I work, I would stop by a local convenience store to buy a soda, maybe two, in the morning for my work day. Was I drinking any water at work? No, I was not. I have the ability to get water to drink but I am so addicted to the soda, I just cannot seem to stop. I like to say I have slowed down in the years but as far as stopping, it has not stopped at all. So, the soda purchase was a slow leak. Once I truly looked at how often I was stopping and making a few dollar purchase at the local convenience store, it started to add up. So, this past week I bought a 12-pack of canned soda to bring to work. The price of the 12-pack was about the same price for at least 2 or 3 sodas a week but I got 12 cans to drink. I mainly brought them to work. Another thing that I was trying to do at work is to drink tea. I like Bigelow's Green Tea and found them at Harris Teeter. I will try to drink one a day so I drink something other than soda. I have also made myself drink the tea with no kind of sweetner added to it. I am not drinking green tea because it is popular but has a nice flavor and I am now able to drink it without sugar/honey/any other sweetner added to it.
The other slow leak was lunch. I get a good amount of time for lunch during work. One hour. I try to stay close by my job so I do not have to worry about shoving the food down my throat just to make it back in time to work. Even if I tried to make budget friendly choices, it was still money slowly leaking out of the bank. So, I have put money back on my McDonald's gift card and if I am going to eat out, I go to McDonald's and use the gift card. I have to remember to eat budget wise as this is the only amount I am putting on there each pay period. If I have money left over for next pay period, great! It stays on there and I keep using the card. McDonald's can get a bit much every day for lunch, five days a week. I will change it up and maybe go somewhere else or make some rice and veggies for lunch.
These are two areas I am trying to get under control right now. Once I can get these two a little better, I will definitely start finding other areas to start working on in my budget. Small leaks eat money slowly. I did not realize how much either. Luckly, I still have time to turn it around and to fix it!! It is getting better and I have got to keep working hard on my budget.
Jennifer
The other slow leak was lunch. I get a good amount of time for lunch during work. One hour. I try to stay close by my job so I do not have to worry about shoving the food down my throat just to make it back in time to work. Even if I tried to make budget friendly choices, it was still money slowly leaking out of the bank. So, I have put money back on my McDonald's gift card and if I am going to eat out, I go to McDonald's and use the gift card. I have to remember to eat budget wise as this is the only amount I am putting on there each pay period. If I have money left over for next pay period, great! It stays on there and I keep using the card. McDonald's can get a bit much every day for lunch, five days a week. I will change it up and maybe go somewhere else or make some rice and veggies for lunch.
These are two areas I am trying to get under control right now. Once I can get these two a little better, I will definitely start finding other areas to start working on in my budget. Small leaks eat money slowly. I did not realize how much either. Luckly, I still have time to turn it around and to fix it!! It is getting better and I have got to keep working hard on my budget.
Jennifer
Sunday, August 14, 2011
Where I Buy Makeup/Skin Care
I will try to do another post on makeup/skin care but this one will take care of the two places that I buy them.
Sephora - Sephora sells a lot of different makeup lines, skin care lines, perfume, cologne and even some hair care items. The store was a bit much when I first went in there. So many different lines, different products, and I just did not know where to go first. After a few visits I found out where I could find the products I needed to get for me. A few things to keep in mind while in Sephora though - (1) Make sure you sign up for their rewards card. You get points for your purchases and then can redeem the points for trial sizes or even only products you can get with the points. (2) Try to find an associate you can trust to guide you in the right direction. I found one in my local Sephora and she has really been great. I have asked a few others and their advice has been pretty good also. (3) Samples are a good thing. If you are ever thinking of trying a new product, make sure that you can get it as a sample. (4) Try on some makeup in the store. Maybe even do a makeover in the store. This way you can try a product before you buy the product.
Ulta - Ulta is like Sephora and the local drug store had a child. You get the best of both worlds in this store. It is definitely worth strolling around Ulta to find out what you can get in the store. Here are some things to keep in mind while there - (1) They have a rewards card also. You get points for your purchases. You get a certain level points, you can them use them to get money off your purchase. (2) Check out to see if there is a salon in your Ulta. If so, check out to see what services they also offer. I have not tried this yet but definitely worth asking about. (3) You can try on some makeup in this store as well. I do not know if they do makeovers but I have found the staff to be friendly and knowledgeable about the products in the store. (4) Coupons. You can get some coupons to use in the store but there are some limitations to them. Make sure you ask about what you can and cannot use the coupons on.
Both stores can also be found online. I will give you the links to them as well. While both stores sound similar, they are a bit different. Definitely worth checking out both of them and see how you may like them both. If ever in doubt, just ask a store associate politely. I have always found that they seem very helpful.
Sephora's Website: http://www.sephora.com
Ulta's Website: http://www.ulta.com
Sephora - Sephora sells a lot of different makeup lines, skin care lines, perfume, cologne and even some hair care items. The store was a bit much when I first went in there. So many different lines, different products, and I just did not know where to go first. After a few visits I found out where I could find the products I needed to get for me. A few things to keep in mind while in Sephora though - (1) Make sure you sign up for their rewards card. You get points for your purchases and then can redeem the points for trial sizes or even only products you can get with the points. (2) Try to find an associate you can trust to guide you in the right direction. I found one in my local Sephora and she has really been great. I have asked a few others and their advice has been pretty good also. (3) Samples are a good thing. If you are ever thinking of trying a new product, make sure that you can get it as a sample. (4) Try on some makeup in the store. Maybe even do a makeover in the store. This way you can try a product before you buy the product.
Ulta - Ulta is like Sephora and the local drug store had a child. You get the best of both worlds in this store. It is definitely worth strolling around Ulta to find out what you can get in the store. Here are some things to keep in mind while there - (1) They have a rewards card also. You get points for your purchases. You get a certain level points, you can them use them to get money off your purchase. (2) Check out to see if there is a salon in your Ulta. If so, check out to see what services they also offer. I have not tried this yet but definitely worth asking about. (3) You can try on some makeup in this store as well. I do not know if they do makeovers but I have found the staff to be friendly and knowledgeable about the products in the store. (4) Coupons. You can get some coupons to use in the store but there are some limitations to them. Make sure you ask about what you can and cannot use the coupons on.
Both stores can also be found online. I will give you the links to them as well. While both stores sound similar, they are a bit different. Definitely worth checking out both of them and see how you may like them both. If ever in doubt, just ask a store associate politely. I have always found that they seem very helpful.
Sephora's Website: http://www.sephora.com
Ulta's Website: http://www.ulta.com
Thursday, August 4, 2011
Money Tracker and Technology Thoughts
I have been not doing well with tracking my month's money for last month. It is not that I have not had time, I do have time. It is just that I am using a spreadsheet application on a computer and by the time I get home, I really do not want to look at a computer for awhile. I use a computer daily at work and sometimes having some time away from the computer is nice.
But I got to thinking about computers, technology and money. I know that technology has advanced to where things now can be kept on your computer and writing things down may now seem like such a chore. However, in the case of me tracking my money, writing it down may be better for me. I can put the numbers in where they are needed on my little paper and have access to it at any time without having to access the computer. It might be easier to plug away with a handy pencil and paper.
I then started thinking of all the ways that technology is great. I can access the internet and find out all kinds of information on different subjects, visit different museum websites and even utilize the yellow pages online. Will there even be a Yellow Pages in 20 years?!
With the ability to access all this stuff, what has lacked? What I mean is, with the ability to access even our friends by social media, am I now lacking the personal interaction that comes with meeting friends at a local restaurant for a catch up meeting? Even with advances in cell phones, you can be out eating and not even talk to the person you are out with at that time. Will all of my friends be online only?
Please do not get me wrong on this though. There are some things that advances in technology has been great!! Cures for some disease, the ability to share some research, sharing of photos between professionals from two different places, and on and on. This has been great! I am all for these advances.
I hope that I can find a balance between technology and human contact. All of this due to not accessing a computer after work to track spending. Wow!
But I got to thinking about computers, technology and money. I know that technology has advanced to where things now can be kept on your computer and writing things down may now seem like such a chore. However, in the case of me tracking my money, writing it down may be better for me. I can put the numbers in where they are needed on my little paper and have access to it at any time without having to access the computer. It might be easier to plug away with a handy pencil and paper.
I then started thinking of all the ways that technology is great. I can access the internet and find out all kinds of information on different subjects, visit different museum websites and even utilize the yellow pages online. Will there even be a Yellow Pages in 20 years?!
With the ability to access all this stuff, what has lacked? What I mean is, with the ability to access even our friends by social media, am I now lacking the personal interaction that comes with meeting friends at a local restaurant for a catch up meeting? Even with advances in cell phones, you can be out eating and not even talk to the person you are out with at that time. Will all of my friends be online only?
Please do not get me wrong on this though. There are some things that advances in technology has been great!! Cures for some disease, the ability to share some research, sharing of photos between professionals from two different places, and on and on. This has been great! I am all for these advances.
I hope that I can find a balance between technology and human contact. All of this due to not accessing a computer after work to track spending. Wow!
Tuesday, August 2, 2011
Gift Cards for a Budget?!
I know this will be one of many posts I will do concerning the envelope method of budgeting your money. I will try to describe it briefly and then how it relates to what I am doing with gift cards.
The envelope method of budgeting deals with getting those plain envelopes that you can get in any store and using them to budget your money. I like to mark on the fronts of the envelopes what each one was for - groceries, gas, rent, etc. I have used this method before for budgeting money and found that it worked pretty good for me. I am sure that there are others out there who use this method and absolutely LOVE it and would not change for the world. As of right now, I am not using it. My pay is twice a month and I have it set up that I can pay the major bills at the different pay times.
But there are the other small items I must budget for - gas and food/groceries. I have yet to get back into the groove of doing the envelopes as I am trying something new to help with the budget. At least it seems to almost be working with the gas for the truck I drive. If I use the truck to go back and forth to work only during the week and to church on Sunday, I can fill up my gas tank once a week. When I get my paycheck I will make sure I fill up my tank Sunday evening before having to go to work on Monday and also while I am at the gas station, I will put money on this particular store's gift card. This way, I already have money waiting for the specific purpose of gas. What money I do not use for gas stays on the card and gets carried over or I may use it for lunch one day. Lunch at a gas station? Yes, lunch at a gas station. I use a store in the area I live called Wawa for my gas. If you are not familiar with Wawa, I will post a link to their website at the end of the post. Click on the link to check out their site!! Wawa has a deli where you can order sandwiches, soups, side items and they try different things to see how they sell in the store. I remember that one time they did crab cakes and even had salads. You can get your sandwiches on hoagie rolls or sandwich bread. If you want them toasted, you got it!!
Okay!! Back to the gift card budgeting!! I really love Wawa as they have lots of stuff and could go on all day but I must restrain myself. I know that you can get the Wawa gift card and put different amounts on it. I keep enough for a tank of gas. This way, I always have gas money for me and I will not forget to budget for a second tank between pay days. I can reload it for different amounts and it can be used over and over again.
I have started wondering if this can be done for other stores? Maybe I could put grocery money on a certain big box store card and have my grocery money for the different times I am paid for the month. I know doing this for gas has helped me out a lot. It is based on the same idea as putting the money in the envelopes but the money is with me when I need it. No planned trips out or having to go home to get the money and then praying while I drive to the gas station that I make it there to get gas. No more scraping together to get the money for gas because I got hungry and went to get some food with the gas money. I have made sure that when I see the card in my wallet I only think of it for gas. I have been doing this for about a month or two now and it is working. The only down side is that if there is any left over money, I cannot get it off the card to use somewhere else. That is one thing to consider before trying out using a gift card as a budget tool. It has gotten easier to do after getting paid and I hope it stays that way.
Now, I will just have to figure out how to start definitely doing a better job at budgeting for other things. One step at a time right?
The Wawa website: http://www.wawa.com/WawaWeb/
Jennifer
The envelope method of budgeting deals with getting those plain envelopes that you can get in any store and using them to budget your money. I like to mark on the fronts of the envelopes what each one was for - groceries, gas, rent, etc. I have used this method before for budgeting money and found that it worked pretty good for me. I am sure that there are others out there who use this method and absolutely LOVE it and would not change for the world. As of right now, I am not using it. My pay is twice a month and I have it set up that I can pay the major bills at the different pay times.
But there are the other small items I must budget for - gas and food/groceries. I have yet to get back into the groove of doing the envelopes as I am trying something new to help with the budget. At least it seems to almost be working with the gas for the truck I drive. If I use the truck to go back and forth to work only during the week and to church on Sunday, I can fill up my gas tank once a week. When I get my paycheck I will make sure I fill up my tank Sunday evening before having to go to work on Monday and also while I am at the gas station, I will put money on this particular store's gift card. This way, I already have money waiting for the specific purpose of gas. What money I do not use for gas stays on the card and gets carried over or I may use it for lunch one day. Lunch at a gas station? Yes, lunch at a gas station. I use a store in the area I live called Wawa for my gas. If you are not familiar with Wawa, I will post a link to their website at the end of the post. Click on the link to check out their site!! Wawa has a deli where you can order sandwiches, soups, side items and they try different things to see how they sell in the store. I remember that one time they did crab cakes and even had salads. You can get your sandwiches on hoagie rolls or sandwich bread. If you want them toasted, you got it!!
Okay!! Back to the gift card budgeting!! I really love Wawa as they have lots of stuff and could go on all day but I must restrain myself. I know that you can get the Wawa gift card and put different amounts on it. I keep enough for a tank of gas. This way, I always have gas money for me and I will not forget to budget for a second tank between pay days. I can reload it for different amounts and it can be used over and over again.
I have started wondering if this can be done for other stores? Maybe I could put grocery money on a certain big box store card and have my grocery money for the different times I am paid for the month. I know doing this for gas has helped me out a lot. It is based on the same idea as putting the money in the envelopes but the money is with me when I need it. No planned trips out or having to go home to get the money and then praying while I drive to the gas station that I make it there to get gas. No more scraping together to get the money for gas because I got hungry and went to get some food with the gas money. I have made sure that when I see the card in my wallet I only think of it for gas. I have been doing this for about a month or two now and it is working. The only down side is that if there is any left over money, I cannot get it off the card to use somewhere else. That is one thing to consider before trying out using a gift card as a budget tool. It has gotten easier to do after getting paid and I hope it stays that way.
Now, I will just have to figure out how to start definitely doing a better job at budgeting for other things. One step at a time right?
The Wawa website: http://www.wawa.com/WawaWeb/
Jennifer
Friday, July 29, 2011
Yahoo Article on Things to NOT Keep in your Wallet
I enjoy looking around on Yahoo! for different articles and sometimes I will focus it more on finances. Luckily, Yahoo! does have a Finance section and even better, under that section is a Personal Finance Section. Anyone can find different articles on budgets, insurance, careers and work, college and more. One that caught my attention this morning was an article entitled "10 Things You Should Not Keep In Your Wallet" by Kathryn Tuggle.
At first glance, some of this seemed like "I should know this" kind of advice but I know I have been guilty of one thing - carrying my Social Security Card in my wallet. it wasn't until I was in college that a professor stressed not carrying it. She, and the article, explained how easy it would be for someone to use your social security number listed on the card to open credit cards in your name, get loans in your name and do all kinds of bad things that I know I do not want to happen to me. So, out of my wallet it came. I know to bring it with me when filling out employment forms or other things but as new rule for me, it is out of my wallet.
Another idea that I really had not thought of but seemed very appropriate was a non-password protected phone. Cell phones have gotten WAY advanced these days. I mean with the Apple iPhone, Android powered phones and Blackberry's, there are all kinds of apps that you can download that can give a person access to their bank accounts, Pay Pal accounts, even your rewards cards to different stores. Just imagine someone bad getting their little hands onto that information. Bye-bye funds in my savings account. That is definitely why I have not downloaded any apps on my phone that gives me greater access to my financial accounts. I will just stick to the computer or the local branch for account access thank you. Even with that, you can still have problems.
Another great tip was to not keep your USB device in your wallet. Now, my USB device cannot fit into my wallet but if you use yours for work related things, best not to leave it where someone can get it and then have fun with what may be on the device.
There are other tips that I could go on and talk about but please just go to the site and read the article too. In this day and age of easy access, try not to make it too easy for that information to get stolen.
The link to the article is: http://finance.yahoo.com/banking-budgeting/article/113216/what-not-keep-in-wallet-foxbiz?mod=bb-budgeting
Jennifer
At first glance, some of this seemed like "I should know this" kind of advice but I know I have been guilty of one thing - carrying my Social Security Card in my wallet. it wasn't until I was in college that a professor stressed not carrying it. She, and the article, explained how easy it would be for someone to use your social security number listed on the card to open credit cards in your name, get loans in your name and do all kinds of bad things that I know I do not want to happen to me. So, out of my wallet it came. I know to bring it with me when filling out employment forms or other things but as new rule for me, it is out of my wallet.
Another idea that I really had not thought of but seemed very appropriate was a non-password protected phone. Cell phones have gotten WAY advanced these days. I mean with the Apple iPhone, Android powered phones and Blackberry's, there are all kinds of apps that you can download that can give a person access to their bank accounts, Pay Pal accounts, even your rewards cards to different stores. Just imagine someone bad getting their little hands onto that information. Bye-bye funds in my savings account. That is definitely why I have not downloaded any apps on my phone that gives me greater access to my financial accounts. I will just stick to the computer or the local branch for account access thank you. Even with that, you can still have problems.
Another great tip was to not keep your USB device in your wallet. Now, my USB device cannot fit into my wallet but if you use yours for work related things, best not to leave it where someone can get it and then have fun with what may be on the device.
There are other tips that I could go on and talk about but please just go to the site and read the article too. In this day and age of easy access, try not to make it too easy for that information to get stolen.
The link to the article is: http://finance.yahoo.com/banking-budgeting/article/113216/what-not-keep-in-wallet-foxbiz?mod=bb-budgeting
Jennifer
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
Stockpiling
I remember watching "Extreme Couponing" on TLC and there seemed to be one of many common themes with those on the show - having a stockpile. While I do not know if I can appreciate having enough toothpaste to last for 2 years, I think I can appreciate a smaller version of a stockpile.
I am trying to use my coupons in combination with deals I find at various grocery stores or pharmacies in the area. I make sure I have a member card to each place that offers it and do my best to wait for items to go on sale to best utilize my coupons. I went to Harris Teeter because they were having a sale on some Starbucks ground or whole bean coffee. I think you saved about $2.75 off of each bag of coffee with their member card. I had two coupons for $3.00 off two bags and decided that while it was on sale, I would get the four bags to use my two coupons. Trust me when I tell you that Husband and I do NOT go through that much coffee in a month but I thought that we do drink coffee a couple times a week and this would last us for a bit. All we would have to do is buy some coffee creamer and it would be good.
This got me to thinking about stockpiling items in my pantry. I have bought some extra cans of veggies, spaghetti sauce, bottles of liquid dish soap and the Finish tablets for the dishwasher. There might be a couple bottles of shampoo for Husband and a few other items that I have bought more than one of but NOTHING like the stockpiles on "Extreme Coupons." One of my thoughts was how much is too much? I am definitely not stocking up on a cart full of toothpaste because I can get it for pennies on the dollar but where is that line that it goes from "You won't need any for awhile" to "When will we use all of this?" I am not sure, to tell you the truth. What is the magic number for that is too much? I can understand that some of the items might be bought out of fear of not being able to provide for your family or saving money on different items. I do not know. Who does know?
I am trying to use my coupons in combination with deals I find at various grocery stores or pharmacies in the area. I make sure I have a member card to each place that offers it and do my best to wait for items to go on sale to best utilize my coupons. I went to Harris Teeter because they were having a sale on some Starbucks ground or whole bean coffee. I think you saved about $2.75 off of each bag of coffee with their member card. I had two coupons for $3.00 off two bags and decided that while it was on sale, I would get the four bags to use my two coupons. Trust me when I tell you that Husband and I do NOT go through that much coffee in a month but I thought that we do drink coffee a couple times a week and this would last us for a bit. All we would have to do is buy some coffee creamer and it would be good.
This got me to thinking about stockpiling items in my pantry. I have bought some extra cans of veggies, spaghetti sauce, bottles of liquid dish soap and the Finish tablets for the dishwasher. There might be a couple bottles of shampoo for Husband and a few other items that I have bought more than one of but NOTHING like the stockpiles on "Extreme Coupons." One of my thoughts was how much is too much? I am definitely not stocking up on a cart full of toothpaste because I can get it for pennies on the dollar but where is that line that it goes from "You won't need any for awhile" to "When will we use all of this?" I am not sure, to tell you the truth. What is the magic number for that is too much? I can understand that some of the items might be bought out of fear of not being able to provide for your family or saving money on different items. I do not know. Who does know?
Thursday, July 21, 2011
Cut It Out!!
I have been doing some reading online at various blogs. I have found a few I like and visit them several times a week in hoping they have some new posts and a little bit of humor on the side. Mainly, I have been trying to see what others are cutting out of their budget, doing for cheap or trying to make more money. One blogger called it a side hustle which I thought was a different way of putting it. I liked it!
I did notice that some things seem to be repeated a lot. For example, make coffee at home instead of going to the local coffee house for your coffee. I will admit that Husband and I have been doing this more regularly. It does depend on if we have coffee creamer though. I prefer my coffee with some flavor but I can do it with some suger and/or milk if I must. Every now and again I will go to Starbucks to meet some friends or Husband and I will go to do something different. We really never did Starbucks a lot though. Maybe twice a week, if that. Now, we really do not have to go and really do not go unless we want a little treat. Not a big budget buster.
Another one is to walk/bike to work. I do not live near my work and cannot afford to move near to work. That is out. Nice idea to save money on having to buy gas and wear and tear on a vehicle but it just is not going to work in my situation.
The one I am going to try to do is to make some extra money. I do have a few things around the house I can put on eBay. Or maybe Craigslist. So, I then wonder what happens when I do not have anything else to sell? How much do I get rid of? Some things just will not get sold because they have been passed down from family or sentimental reasons but it makes me wonder. What stays, what goes after I get rid of the stuff that I know that I can part with? Good thoughts to wrestle with.
Netflix is another option. We do not do Netflix now so that would be a new expense we do not need. Next!!
Cutting cable. Nope, not happening there either. Cable is already in the living quarters and if it gets cut, I will just have to let it go. That might last week if that happens.
You get the picture here? How many times, how many different ways can people tell you to do the same things?! Well, you might have to start doing what is best for you and your budget. Just do not go crazy with it just to try and save a buck though. Good luck!!
Jennifer
I did notice that some things seem to be repeated a lot. For example, make coffee at home instead of going to the local coffee house for your coffee. I will admit that Husband and I have been doing this more regularly. It does depend on if we have coffee creamer though. I prefer my coffee with some flavor but I can do it with some suger and/or milk if I must. Every now and again I will go to Starbucks to meet some friends or Husband and I will go to do something different. We really never did Starbucks a lot though. Maybe twice a week, if that. Now, we really do not have to go and really do not go unless we want a little treat. Not a big budget buster.
Another one is to walk/bike to work. I do not live near my work and cannot afford to move near to work. That is out. Nice idea to save money on having to buy gas and wear and tear on a vehicle but it just is not going to work in my situation.
The one I am going to try to do is to make some extra money. I do have a few things around the house I can put on eBay. Or maybe Craigslist. So, I then wonder what happens when I do not have anything else to sell? How much do I get rid of? Some things just will not get sold because they have been passed down from family or sentimental reasons but it makes me wonder. What stays, what goes after I get rid of the stuff that I know that I can part with? Good thoughts to wrestle with.
Netflix is another option. We do not do Netflix now so that would be a new expense we do not need. Next!!
Cutting cable. Nope, not happening there either. Cable is already in the living quarters and if it gets cut, I will just have to let it go. That might last week if that happens.
You get the picture here? How many times, how many different ways can people tell you to do the same things?! Well, you might have to start doing what is best for you and your budget. Just do not go crazy with it just to try and save a buck though. Good luck!!
Jennifer
Monday, July 18, 2011
Wal-Mart and Canned Veggies
Husband and I went to Wal-Mart over the weekend. I think that Wal-Mart has some decent prices on things that I use around the home. However, I also find that Wal-Mart is VERY crowded and sometimes that crowdedness is just not even worth it. We went anyway!
Originally, I went to get some laundry detergent. Someone once made a joke that you go into Wal-Mart for one thing and then come out with everything but what you went in there for. We did get a few extra items but we needed to get some food for us.
The other week I had made some brown rice with peas, carrots and corn that was quite good. I had put in some flavoring that was supposed to enhance the veggies and it tasted good. It smelled even better. So, Husband wanted to do that again. Off to the can veggie aisle we went. In order to save some money, I was getting the store brand veggies. I know they taste fine and they were a good value for me. Then, out of nowhere, Husband says he wants the name brand veggies. He says they taste better. Really? I had not noticed a difference. Usually I get the Harris Teeter brand can veggies and nobody said any different on the taste. Wow. I was a little shocked that he said that. No fight in store - I just exchanged the store brand for the national brand canned veggies.
I got to thinking. In a quest to save money, am I compromising taste? Am I becoming overconsumed with saving money? I did not think that I was but his comment got me to thinking about this. Can you have it both - saving money and getting what you want all at the same time? Is buying name brand a way to keep up with those Jonses? (On a side note, has anyone ever met the Jonses? How did that become a saying that we all know?) Is saving $1.80 worth it? (That would have been the savings on the store brand versus the national brand.) Does anyone else have this problem - wanting to save money and then a family member says that want a different brand? I will say that usually Husband is thrifty and for that, I am glad. Or am I wrong? Am I thinking too much into this? Who knows!! Anyone else want to add their opinion on this one?
Jennifer
Originally, I went to get some laundry detergent. Someone once made a joke that you go into Wal-Mart for one thing and then come out with everything but what you went in there for. We did get a few extra items but we needed to get some food for us.
The other week I had made some brown rice with peas, carrots and corn that was quite good. I had put in some flavoring that was supposed to enhance the veggies and it tasted good. It smelled even better. So, Husband wanted to do that again. Off to the can veggie aisle we went. In order to save some money, I was getting the store brand veggies. I know they taste fine and they were a good value for me. Then, out of nowhere, Husband says he wants the name brand veggies. He says they taste better. Really? I had not noticed a difference. Usually I get the Harris Teeter brand can veggies and nobody said any different on the taste. Wow. I was a little shocked that he said that. No fight in store - I just exchanged the store brand for the national brand canned veggies.
I got to thinking. In a quest to save money, am I compromising taste? Am I becoming overconsumed with saving money? I did not think that I was but his comment got me to thinking about this. Can you have it both - saving money and getting what you want all at the same time? Is buying name brand a way to keep up with those Jonses? (On a side note, has anyone ever met the Jonses? How did that become a saying that we all know?) Is saving $1.80 worth it? (That would have been the savings on the store brand versus the national brand.) Does anyone else have this problem - wanting to save money and then a family member says that want a different brand? I will say that usually Husband is thrifty and for that, I am glad. Or am I wrong? Am I thinking too much into this? Who knows!! Anyone else want to add their opinion on this one?
Jennifer
Thursday, July 14, 2011
Thinking About Cutting Out Expenses
Since I have started tracking my spending since my last paycheck, I started thinking about ways to cut out some expenses or make more money. Both are great ideas but maybe I need to start on one and then add the other in slowly. I have been wondering where can I cut expenses. What can I cut and what am I not willing to compromise on? I know that I have two areas that I am not going to compromise on - vitamins and my haircare. Now that I have written that down, it almost sounds a little vain. Eeekks!!
My husband and I have tried different vitamins throught our few years of taking vitamins. We started out with ones we could buy at local big box stores, moved up to GNC and now to the Vitamin Shoppe. I found vitamins for both of us that are good and are very well recommended. However, the price for a two-month supply for both of us can be quite a sticker shock. The ones my husband takes are a bit lower than mine and we do not buy them at the same time. It is a bit cheaper to buy the two-month supply than buying them a month at a time. If needs be, we have bought the one-month supply until we can do the two-month supply. The great thing about the Vitamin Shoppe is that they have a rewards card that keeps track of points. Depending on the amount of points you acheive in a year, you will get a coupon for so much off your next purchase. That does not drive which vitamins we pick out so do not think that is why we take ones that cost more. One dollar equals one point. So, vitamins are not getting cut due to my wanting to be more budget friendly and saving more money.
My husband uses the cheaper brand shampoo. He has nice hair and no problems. I have some scalp issues and have tried a lot of different dandruff shampoos. I have found that most of them dry out my hair horribly but really do not help my scalp. That's no fun at all. I thought it was a lost cause!! Oddly enough, I am using the Tea Tree Oil Wen. Yep, I am using Wen. You have probably seen the infomercials on late night or early Saturday mornings. Those infomercials only sell the Sweet Almond Mint. It works good but I still needed a bit more so I switched over to the Tea Tree Oil. It has made a difference!! The price is not budget friendly but I know it helps me so I am not going to change. I will have to find other ways to adjust for the price (plus shipping).
So, back to the where can I adjust my money to save more.......I definitely am starting to look at my purchases differently now. Can I find it at a better price somewhere else? Do I buy a couple of that item while it is on sale to stock up a bit on it? Do I have a coupon for it while it is on sale to maximize my savings? Can I borrow an item without having to buy it? Do I really need it or do I think I just want it to have it? Can I make better use of the public libraries in my area? Do I know someone who can do the same service at a better price? Just some questions I have started asking myself. I know that I will start trying different things in the future to help watch my money. So, just stay tuned and see what happens next I guess.
Jennifer
My husband and I have tried different vitamins throught our few years of taking vitamins. We started out with ones we could buy at local big box stores, moved up to GNC and now to the Vitamin Shoppe. I found vitamins for both of us that are good and are very well recommended. However, the price for a two-month supply for both of us can be quite a sticker shock. The ones my husband takes are a bit lower than mine and we do not buy them at the same time. It is a bit cheaper to buy the two-month supply than buying them a month at a time. If needs be, we have bought the one-month supply until we can do the two-month supply. The great thing about the Vitamin Shoppe is that they have a rewards card that keeps track of points. Depending on the amount of points you acheive in a year, you will get a coupon for so much off your next purchase. That does not drive which vitamins we pick out so do not think that is why we take ones that cost more. One dollar equals one point. So, vitamins are not getting cut due to my wanting to be more budget friendly and saving more money.
My husband uses the cheaper brand shampoo. He has nice hair and no problems. I have some scalp issues and have tried a lot of different dandruff shampoos. I have found that most of them dry out my hair horribly but really do not help my scalp. That's no fun at all. I thought it was a lost cause!! Oddly enough, I am using the Tea Tree Oil Wen. Yep, I am using Wen. You have probably seen the infomercials on late night or early Saturday mornings. Those infomercials only sell the Sweet Almond Mint. It works good but I still needed a bit more so I switched over to the Tea Tree Oil. It has made a difference!! The price is not budget friendly but I know it helps me so I am not going to change. I will have to find other ways to adjust for the price (plus shipping).
So, back to the where can I adjust my money to save more.......I definitely am starting to look at my purchases differently now. Can I find it at a better price somewhere else? Do I buy a couple of that item while it is on sale to stock up a bit on it? Do I have a coupon for it while it is on sale to maximize my savings? Can I borrow an item without having to buy it? Do I really need it or do I think I just want it to have it? Can I make better use of the public libraries in my area? Do I know someone who can do the same service at a better price? Just some questions I have started asking myself. I know that I will start trying different things in the future to help watch my money. So, just stay tuned and see what happens next I guess.
Jennifer
Monday, July 11, 2011
Budget Tracker
One tip that I have read about when setting out on setting up a budget is to track your expenses for about a month. This way, you will be able to see where your money has been spent, how much you have spent and start getting an idea on where you can cut back. Since I get paid twice a month, I thought this would be pretty easy to do.
So far, I have began to realize where I could cut some little expenses. It has been an eye opener to see where I have spent money for the past almost two weeks. I am going to try and see where some expenses are bought and see if I can save a little just to help offset the expense. I also need to see where it would be a good idea to buy items to keep at home or at the office. For example, I have not kicked the soda habit. I will stop in the mornings to get a soda before work. That is an expense that I should think about. Maybe buy a multi-pack of soda to keep in the office so that I do not have to stop every morning and slowly drain my bank account. I have been at this for about two weeks and already that sounds like a better idea. I wonder where I can cut little things out so that I can save money?
Sometimes I think that the soda idea and other ideas should be no-brainers. I mean, I should have had that idea from the start right?! Drink more water and I will not have to buy sodas. That is another no-brainer huh? Yep, some of these no-brainers are so simple that I never really sat down and thought about them. It is like I thought that I would think about it later. That has been a great thing to say for most things - "I'll think about it later." Well, I think I have to think about this now so I do not have a slow leak in my account over some simple things.
I have been trying hard to just spend like I normally do though. I have been not trying to do anything different so I can get a good picture where I spend my money. It has been hard to try as I have been thinking that I need to save money, I need to do little things to keep more of my money with me, etc. I also need to get a true and accurate picture of where the money went. So, I have been using a spreadsheat program to track where and when I spent money. Here is hoping this is a good starting point!!
Jennifer
So far, I have began to realize where I could cut some little expenses. It has been an eye opener to see where I have spent money for the past almost two weeks. I am going to try and see where some expenses are bought and see if I can save a little just to help offset the expense. I also need to see where it would be a good idea to buy items to keep at home or at the office. For example, I have not kicked the soda habit. I will stop in the mornings to get a soda before work. That is an expense that I should think about. Maybe buy a multi-pack of soda to keep in the office so that I do not have to stop every morning and slowly drain my bank account. I have been at this for about two weeks and already that sounds like a better idea. I wonder where I can cut little things out so that I can save money?
Sometimes I think that the soda idea and other ideas should be no-brainers. I mean, I should have had that idea from the start right?! Drink more water and I will not have to buy sodas. That is another no-brainer huh? Yep, some of these no-brainers are so simple that I never really sat down and thought about them. It is like I thought that I would think about it later. That has been a great thing to say for most things - "I'll think about it later." Well, I think I have to think about this now so I do not have a slow leak in my account over some simple things.
I have been trying hard to just spend like I normally do though. I have been not trying to do anything different so I can get a good picture where I spend my money. It has been hard to try as I have been thinking that I need to save money, I need to do little things to keep more of my money with me, etc. I also need to get a true and accurate picture of where the money went. So, I have been using a spreadsheat program to track where and when I spent money. Here is hoping this is a good starting point!!
Jennifer
Thursday, July 7, 2011
Background
Hello again!! I know it has been a little while since my last post here on my blog. I had been trying to think of what I wanted to write for my next post. Did I want to do a short review of an article on budget/coupons/money, post on a book that I have started reading this past week or one topic that had been popping back up is giving a bit of background on myself. So, I decided to do some background on myself so you, the reader, can know a bit more about me.
I am married and have been so for five years. My husband and I have not really had a lot of money during our course of dating and now married life. We got married at our local courthouse. It was like squeezed in on our to-do list: groceries, car payment, get married, laundry, etc. As a girl I had always hoped and dreamed of a nice wedding. Now, I will just have to go for a nice vow renewal ceremony! Maybe somewhere tropical? (Off topic there for a minute!!) I am glad that we did get married as it was great when my husband was able to get insurance through his last job for us. We had not had insurance as a couple and finally getting it was really nice. However, my husband was laid off from his job and part of keeping the insurance was making a set amount of hours each year at the job. So, now back to no insurance.
I went back to school in the fall of 2006. I had always wanted to finish college. I had began college right out of high school but never completed the coursework necessary for a degree. I went to a local college that offered a year-round system. After having been at a traditional college, the year-round system was a bit different. I was able to complete my Associate's Degree and Bachelor's Degree in about two-and-a-half years using this year-round system. I quite liked the year-round system and made some really great friends from college.
After finishing college came the great job hunt. Ohhhh how this was just long and never ending or so it seemed. I gained temporary employment but that only lasted a few months. I tried some temporary job agencies here in the area but that was a miss on my part. I kept on sending out my resumes to jobs and finally landed the job I have now. I have been here for over a year now and really enjoy working. I like learning more and more about my job and what's required of me. Did I just say that I liked my job? Yes, yes I did. I work as a legal assistant. The job is never dull and I am always learning something.
Since my husband has been laid off, we have been mainly surviving on my income. It is very hard to do at times but we always seem to have just enough. Right now, we only have one vehicle. That is all we can afford. We are saving up for a second for me. We have been living with a family member who has graciously allowed us to stay there for some time now. That is not easy to say when most of my friends have their own apartments, houses or homes. I am just glad that someone has been so wonderful as to allow us to stay with them for so long.
So, what will I want to do on my blog? I am going to explore different ways of saving money and still surviving life. I need to be saving money but how? Extra money would be nice but from where? How do I buy groceries without a whole lot of money after bills are paid? I will be exploring those and letting you know how I did or how I did not do with them. I also want to explore some services that are available for almost anyone and see if those services are a good deal for me. Now I do understand that what is a good deal for me may not be a good deal for you and the other way around.
I hope you will come back and see what happens!!
Jennifer :)
I am married and have been so for five years. My husband and I have not really had a lot of money during our course of dating and now married life. We got married at our local courthouse. It was like squeezed in on our to-do list: groceries, car payment, get married, laundry, etc. As a girl I had always hoped and dreamed of a nice wedding. Now, I will just have to go for a nice vow renewal ceremony! Maybe somewhere tropical? (Off topic there for a minute!!) I am glad that we did get married as it was great when my husband was able to get insurance through his last job for us. We had not had insurance as a couple and finally getting it was really nice. However, my husband was laid off from his job and part of keeping the insurance was making a set amount of hours each year at the job. So, now back to no insurance.
I went back to school in the fall of 2006. I had always wanted to finish college. I had began college right out of high school but never completed the coursework necessary for a degree. I went to a local college that offered a year-round system. After having been at a traditional college, the year-round system was a bit different. I was able to complete my Associate's Degree and Bachelor's Degree in about two-and-a-half years using this year-round system. I quite liked the year-round system and made some really great friends from college.
After finishing college came the great job hunt. Ohhhh how this was just long and never ending or so it seemed. I gained temporary employment but that only lasted a few months. I tried some temporary job agencies here in the area but that was a miss on my part. I kept on sending out my resumes to jobs and finally landed the job I have now. I have been here for over a year now and really enjoy working. I like learning more and more about my job and what's required of me. Did I just say that I liked my job? Yes, yes I did. I work as a legal assistant. The job is never dull and I am always learning something.
Since my husband has been laid off, we have been mainly surviving on my income. It is very hard to do at times but we always seem to have just enough. Right now, we only have one vehicle. That is all we can afford. We are saving up for a second for me. We have been living with a family member who has graciously allowed us to stay there for some time now. That is not easy to say when most of my friends have their own apartments, houses or homes. I am just glad that someone has been so wonderful as to allow us to stay with them for so long.
So, what will I want to do on my blog? I am going to explore different ways of saving money and still surviving life. I need to be saving money but how? Extra money would be nice but from where? How do I buy groceries without a whole lot of money after bills are paid? I will be exploring those and letting you know how I did or how I did not do with them. I also want to explore some services that are available for almost anyone and see if those services are a good deal for me. Now I do understand that what is a good deal for me may not be a good deal for you and the other way around.
I hope you will come back and see what happens!!
Jennifer :)
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
A Yahoo Article and My Thoughts
I think that most everyone has seen the show on TLC called "Extreme Couponing." I believe it started off as a one time show and then turned into a series they are now doing at TLC. It's almost seemed to lure me in every time that it is on air. I even DVR it. Sad, I know. But as I was watching the show I kept thinking that the executives at these stores will get wind of this show and start changing coupon policies. I mean, after watching this who hasn't thought that to get $500 worth of food for $18.99 would be the best thing ever?! I just don't think I could spend 30 to 40 hours a week to organize a trip to the grocery store for my husband and I. I do have to work.
I will admit that there were at least two people on the show who used the coupons and spent the time to get deals on food and other items so they could donate them. That idea I can agree with. That is one of the best ideas on the show.
I can understand, though, that some of these people do this type of couponing to provide for their family on a budget. I totally agree with that as well. Who wouldn't want to provide for their family as much as possible on as little as possible? But again, I just kept thinking that the store executives weren't going to go for this. Pretty soon, a lot of people would be trying to get items for cheap, free or even "getting paid to shop" as I've heard on the show. The stores would be crazy, in my mind, to continue to do this.
Well, an article I found on Yahoo today seems to have thought so too. It gives examples of how Rite Aid and Target are changing some policies on coupons and how you can use them in their stores. I now wonder what other national stores will be following along on changing policies on how consumers can use the coupons in their stores. Has this show hurt or helped stores? Are people now becoming coupon obsessed in the hopes of buying a lot on a little? Has this extreme couponing gone too far? Who am I to say?
Here's the link to the article: http://financiallyfit.yahoo.com/finance/article-113020-10125-1-how-to-get-the-most-from-coupons?ywaad=ad0035&nc
I will admit that there were at least two people on the show who used the coupons and spent the time to get deals on food and other items so they could donate them. That idea I can agree with. That is one of the best ideas on the show.
I can understand, though, that some of these people do this type of couponing to provide for their family on a budget. I totally agree with that as well. Who wouldn't want to provide for their family as much as possible on as little as possible? But again, I just kept thinking that the store executives weren't going to go for this. Pretty soon, a lot of people would be trying to get items for cheap, free or even "getting paid to shop" as I've heard on the show. The stores would be crazy, in my mind, to continue to do this.
Well, an article I found on Yahoo today seems to have thought so too. It gives examples of how Rite Aid and Target are changing some policies on coupons and how you can use them in their stores. I now wonder what other national stores will be following along on changing policies on how consumers can use the coupons in their stores. Has this show hurt or helped stores? Are people now becoming coupon obsessed in the hopes of buying a lot on a little? Has this extreme couponing gone too far? Who am I to say?
Here's the link to the article: http://financiallyfit.yahoo.com/finance/article-113020-10125-1-how-to-get-the-most-from-coupons?ywaad=ad0035&nc
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Lunch at Harris Teeter
Harris Teeter has a salad bar that anyone can come and get what they want from it and purchase at the register. Usually on Wednesdays the one close to where I work has a Tomato and Mozzarella Salad that I rather enjoy for lunch. It has some cherry tomatoes and bite size pieces of mozzarella with a dressing similar to an Italian dressing. I enjoy it as it is light and really tasty. I could probably make it at home but I would most likely be the only one eating it so I only get it a once or twice a month at Harris Teeter.
While at Harris Teeter, I will look at some different aisles for snack ideas to take back to work. Nothing to big and nothing that I have to mix together and I usually get things that can be kept at room temperature. My favorite has been the 100 Calorie Packs of the Lorna Doone cookies. Sometimes the 100 Calorie Packs are on special and that's when I'll buy some to take back to work. Today, they happened to be about 40 cents off and I bought a box to take back to work. There are 6 packets in a box.
Harris Teeter has a loyalty card that anyone can sign up for and use in their store. I try to use my card as often as I can. When you check out, at the end of your purchases on the register tape, you will find how much you saved that day using their card and then your total for the year using their card. It is pretty nice to see how much you can save using their card. Once I got back to my vehicle, I checked out my receipt to see how much I had saved so far this year. I was a little amazed at how much I had saved using this little card!! So far, it has been $84.68 and that is only since January 2011! Whoa!! That is some serious savings for me!! I did not relize by buying things on special with their loyalty card I had saved that much money. I am curious to see how much I will have saved by December of this year.
So, I guess the moral of this story, the loyalty cards at different grocery stores are definitely worth it. Keep track of your savings and you might just be amazed at how much you can save with it!!
While at Harris Teeter, I will look at some different aisles for snack ideas to take back to work. Nothing to big and nothing that I have to mix together and I usually get things that can be kept at room temperature. My favorite has been the 100 Calorie Packs of the Lorna Doone cookies. Sometimes the 100 Calorie Packs are on special and that's when I'll buy some to take back to work. Today, they happened to be about 40 cents off and I bought a box to take back to work. There are 6 packets in a box.
Harris Teeter has a loyalty card that anyone can sign up for and use in their store. I try to use my card as often as I can. When you check out, at the end of your purchases on the register tape, you will find how much you saved that day using their card and then your total for the year using their card. It is pretty nice to see how much you can save using their card. Once I got back to my vehicle, I checked out my receipt to see how much I had saved so far this year. I was a little amazed at how much I had saved using this little card!! So far, it has been $84.68 and that is only since January 2011! Whoa!! That is some serious savings for me!! I did not relize by buying things on special with their loyalty card I had saved that much money. I am curious to see how much I will have saved by December of this year.
So, I guess the moral of this story, the loyalty cards at different grocery stores are definitely worth it. Keep track of your savings and you might just be amazed at how much you can save with it!!
Monday, June 20, 2011
Welcome and Hello!!
Hello and welcome to my first blog. I'm new to "blogging" and hope that it goes well.
My main goal for this blog is to explore how a budget fits into my life. I'm not very good with a budget and know that I should be on one so that I can save money and make the most of what I spend. I have been reading some different websites and I am slowly putting into practice things I like and things that make sense to me. I may even try a few wacky things!! The things I do and explore here on my blog may not be right for everyone. So, it may not be right for you but just enjoy reading my blog if you can!
I don't mind comments but I do ask that you please keep them clean. No bad words please or hurtful remarks. I don't mind if you disagree with me as I know some things aren't for everyone.
I would like to keep things light at times. I do like to think I have a good sense of humor but I'm sure others might think it's a bit off.
I will try to post regularly but since this is the beginning, I don't know how often that might be. I am going to aim for once a week. Unless I find something that I think is pretty awesome and just HAVE to share with you.
I hope you enjoy and thanks for reading!!
Jennifer
My main goal for this blog is to explore how a budget fits into my life. I'm not very good with a budget and know that I should be on one so that I can save money and make the most of what I spend. I have been reading some different websites and I am slowly putting into practice things I like and things that make sense to me. I may even try a few wacky things!! The things I do and explore here on my blog may not be right for everyone. So, it may not be right for you but just enjoy reading my blog if you can!
I don't mind comments but I do ask that you please keep them clean. No bad words please or hurtful remarks. I don't mind if you disagree with me as I know some things aren't for everyone.
I would like to keep things light at times. I do like to think I have a good sense of humor but I'm sure others might think it's a bit off.
I will try to post regularly but since this is the beginning, I don't know how often that might be. I am going to aim for once a week. Unless I find something that I think is pretty awesome and just HAVE to share with you.
I hope you enjoy and thanks for reading!!
Jennifer
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