frugal never felt so good..

Everyone is talking about the economy, their jobs, saving money....... As much as chris and i feel secure in our life-we are hearing more and more stories of families being affected. we had not been living on a budget. we always had enough money for what we wanted, paying bills and we were saving so we were not too worried about it.

Mom and dad have always taught us to make good decision when it came to money but in light of the state of the economy we recently made some changes and when we did look over the numbers we were shocked to find out where most of our money was going! I mean shocked! It was very eye opening. This is old news for most of you but it has been life changing for us and I am so grateful that we are building a strong foundation for our family based on principles of the gospel.


creative with food lately...

We started the first of January to take money out each week and pay for groceries with cash and have in one month saved hundreds. Simply because we were not paying attention. Now it is kinda like a game to see how low we can keep our grocery bill. As well as how low we can keep our spending each week. It is really empowering and uplifting. We will be debt free by the end of the year. Minus the student loans and mortgage but that is huge for us! It has been great to make plans for a new kitchen and bathroom and be able to pay for it in cash. Trips and furniture, the list goes on. It is just so much better to know that we will pay for it right off and not have to worry about the payments for months or years later.

A great budget book and debt free living guide is by dave ramsey called the total money make over! It will change how you live and how you think about money. I would high recommend it and you can probably find it at most libraries.

At one point he told a story of a family who at the end of each month they could not tell where all their money went and wondered how they could be working and earning so much and still not have enough. They said they are "telling their money were to go rather than their money tell them where it went." I really like that.

We have tried coupons the last few weeks and are wondering if it is worth buying the Sunday paper to cut them. I do not have much experience with coupons and would love to hear where people get them and suggestions on organizing and keeping track of them. It sounds so overwhelming-please share your favorite sites and other money saving ideas! It is really a wonderful feeling to take charge and plan well.

It is a testament to me that our prophet knows exactly what he is talking about when he teaches about provident living, food storage and family life. I am so grateful for the guidance and safety that we learn from the Lord. The scripture comes to mind "if ye are prepared ye shall not fear." and the provident living principles from the church have all come back into my mind. What a great time to live!