I have run across a lot of great articles recently -- most of which I want to share with the blog-world (or just keep the link for someday when I want to re-read them, I really hate when my bookmark list gets too long). Today's two articles are all about money... or more accurately saving money and getting out of debt.
I make it no secret that one of my biggest long term goals right now is getting myself out of debt. It is going to be a while before I can yell "I'm Deb Free" from the top of my lungs -- but everyday and every month I am getting closer and closer. How exciting!
That being said, when I see articles on MSN or other blogs about this topic, I almost always click on them to see if they have any great (and new) tips. These two are worth a puruse, if you will.
1) Trick Yourself Into Saving More Mony, msn.com
I liked this article because I saw some tips I hadn't seen -- or maybe more accurately taken notice of lately. My personal favorite is the "round up extra cash" idea. I may try this for a month or two... see if the feeling of being strapped for cash is outweighed when I magically have some extra money at the end of each month to put away in savings for grad school or pay down debt. Does anyone do this? Do you like it?
2) Cash is King, Johnny B. Truant Blog
I like this article more because I agree with it whole heartedly. Now that I am using the envelope system for eating out, entertainment, groceries and clothing I feel RICH! No, really -- I DO! I am certainly not making any more money or saving it better. I just can SEE the money and know where it is going. I feel RICH... and I like that feeling.
And since we are talking about finances and getting out debt -- let me introduce you two new blogs I have found that I like -- both are people/families blogging about their adventures while they go debt free.
Man vs. Debt
Debt Free Adventure
That's all I got right now folks! I should do a detailed update on how I am doing with my get out of debt plan. I am working on two bigger credit card debts right now, so it has been a while since I have reached any great milestones. But I promise I am still plugging away and I am feeling pretty good about it!
Showing posts with label finances. Show all posts
Showing posts with label finances. Show all posts
1.13.2010
12.18.2009
December 18: Shop of 2009
2009 was the year of cutting back on spending... not only for me, but for most of the country. I have at times spoken of my debt on this blog. And I must say, through the grace of Christ and His mercy on teaching me this lession, I am slowly but surely climbing right on out of debt.
That being said... I still like to shop. :-). I have just put myself on a budget -- and have had to tweak it as I have learned things about myself and my spending habits.
First, I model my budget off of Bryan Allain's -- he shared it once on his blog. It was just a great format to use and I really appreciate the breakdown. Thanks to Bryan for doing a lot of the hard work for me (figuring out the categories, etc) and then sharing it.
Second, I have realized I will "borrow" from categories if I don't get certain categories in cash. I now spend cash only on groceries, eating out, clothing, and entertainment (movies, etc). It has helped me control my spending tremendously. It also makes me wonder where I spent all of my money before adopting the budget and cash-only spending in some categories.
All of that being said -- I think I have an idea of where I spent most of my money (and still do)...
iTunes.
iTunes is defintely my shop of 2009. And most likely the shop of my life.
I love iTunes (and my iPod). It is far too easy to just download one song... or a whole CD. I don't think I could list all of the music I have bought this year (Hanson EP, Brad Paisley CD, songs from Fee, all of the Glee music, and much, much more)... but let's just say it was probably way too much!
That being said in 2010, I am sure iTunes will still be my best shop. But I am not planning on ways to curb my spending on there (when it is tied to your debit card, it is too easy to go over budget). My friend Stephenie told me about this great idea! Buy yourself an iTunes Gift Certificate. That is all you get each month. When it is up, it is up! Then either reload at the beginning of the month or buy a new one. Genius! I am planning on trying this out in 2010. Wish me luck!
That being said... I still like to shop. :-). I have just put myself on a budget -- and have had to tweak it as I have learned things about myself and my spending habits.
First, I model my budget off of Bryan Allain's -- he shared it once on his blog. It was just a great format to use and I really appreciate the breakdown. Thanks to Bryan for doing a lot of the hard work for me (figuring out the categories, etc) and then sharing it.
Second, I have realized I will "borrow" from categories if I don't get certain categories in cash. I now spend cash only on groceries, eating out, clothing, and entertainment (movies, etc). It has helped me control my spending tremendously. It also makes me wonder where I spent all of my money before adopting the budget and cash-only spending in some categories.
All of that being said -- I think I have an idea of where I spent most of my money (and still do)...
iTunes.
iTunes is defintely my shop of 2009. And most likely the shop of my life.
I love iTunes (and my iPod). It is far too easy to just download one song... or a whole CD. I don't think I could list all of the music I have bought this year (Hanson EP, Brad Paisley CD, songs from Fee, all of the Glee music, and much, much more)... but let's just say it was probably way too much!
That being said in 2010, I am sure iTunes will still be my best shop. But I am not planning on ways to curb my spending on there (when it is tied to your debit card, it is too easy to go over budget). My friend Stephenie told me about this great idea! Buy yourself an iTunes Gift Certificate. That is all you get each month. When it is up, it is up! Then either reload at the beginning of the month or buy a new one. Genius! I am planning on trying this out in 2010. Wish me luck!
10.02.2009
26 Things Update!
Do you even remember this? It has been so long since I have given an update! BUT, I am making some progress, I guess. Here are a couple more updates!
#1 - Join a gym.
COMPLETE! I joined a gym last Friday. I now belong to Planet Fitness.
#2- Exercise 2x a week.
Ongoing, but COMPLETE! Yep, my co-worker Shawna and I are exercising together. We started Monday. We are going for an hour each morning. It is a good thing I have to meet her; I don't think I would make it into the gym other wise.
#6- pay off Credit Card #3.
Well, I haven't done it, but I am making a lot of progress. I recently revisited my budget and spending habits and made some changes. I know use the envelope system for things like Groceries, Eating Out, Entertainment, Clothing. The rest I still pay via check or debit card. But I am working hard to live off of my paycheck each month and use my mileage reimbursement as payoff for the credit card debt. I am seeing slow and steady progress and I think that is the most important part, right?
#8- Read 2 books per month.
I haven't let you know what I am reading, but I am getting there. I recently started re-reading the Anne of Green Gables stories. :-)
#10- Write a living will
I downloaded an example today so that I can get going on it!
#13- Redo my office
It's getting there, and there has been progress. Everything is filed, my drawers are cleaner, the company just painted. Now I just need to move my furniture. And put some stuff up on the walls. Soon, soon I think!
#14- Buy new book shelves
Doing this afternoon. Then my brother is going to help me put them together this weekend. AND, I bought a desk! Do you remember?
#15- Go white water rafting.
FAIL. So can I exchange it for my trip to Maine and kayaking? Rachel ended up not going for her birthday. I'll have to try again for next year.
#21- Visit one school of interest
Haven't physically gone, but I am doing lots of online research. Hope to know which schools I am applying to buy the end of the weekend.
#23- Blog 3x a week.
I think this one has been a success, don't you? I have seen an increase in my posts since last year!
I am making progress. I don't know if all of them will happen though. That is ok; I certainly like having goals and watching (some of) them progress!
#1 - Join a gym.
COMPLETE! I joined a gym last Friday. I now belong to Planet Fitness.
#2- Exercise 2x a week.
Ongoing, but COMPLETE! Yep, my co-worker Shawna and I are exercising together. We started Monday. We are going for an hour each morning. It is a good thing I have to meet her; I don't think I would make it into the gym other wise.
#6- pay off Credit Card #3.
Well, I haven't done it, but I am making a lot of progress. I recently revisited my budget and spending habits and made some changes. I know use the envelope system for things like Groceries, Eating Out, Entertainment, Clothing. The rest I still pay via check or debit card. But I am working hard to live off of my paycheck each month and use my mileage reimbursement as payoff for the credit card debt. I am seeing slow and steady progress and I think that is the most important part, right?
#8- Read 2 books per month.
I haven't let you know what I am reading, but I am getting there. I recently started re-reading the Anne of Green Gables stories. :-)
#10- Write a living will
I downloaded an example today so that I can get going on it!
#13- Redo my office
It's getting there, and there has been progress. Everything is filed, my drawers are cleaner, the company just painted. Now I just need to move my furniture. And put some stuff up on the walls. Soon, soon I think!
#14- Buy new book shelves
Doing this afternoon. Then my brother is going to help me put them together this weekend. AND, I bought a desk! Do you remember?
#15- Go white water rafting.
FAIL. So can I exchange it for my trip to Maine and kayaking? Rachel ended up not going for her birthday. I'll have to try again for next year.
#21- Visit one school of interest
Haven't physically gone, but I am doing lots of online research. Hope to know which schools I am applying to buy the end of the weekend.
#23- Blog 3x a week.
I think this one has been a success, don't you? I have seen an increase in my posts since last year!
I am making progress. I don't know if all of them will happen though. That is ok; I certainly like having goals and watching (some of) them progress!
6.23.2009
Debt
I have talked a little bit on my blog about my credit card debt. I am so thankful that God has convicted me to clean up my spending habits. I still have quite a ways to go, but I feel like at 25 I am leaps and bounds above where I could be...
Here is one article that just forced me to stop and be thankful and praise God for where He has brought me to my knees. $60,000 -- I can't even imagine being that far in debt and then being forced to begin taking furlough. Or even worse... lose your job! Praise God that I have a job that seems (for the time being) stable and one that I enjoy. Praise God that I am not that far in debt!
I also really enjoy this portion of Dave Ramsey's website... gives me hope that someday I'll be able to call in and yell FREEDOM! I will be there someday! And hopefully sooner rather than later.
Here is one article that just forced me to stop and be thankful and praise God for where He has brought me to my knees. $60,000 -- I can't even imagine being that far in debt and then being forced to begin taking furlough. Or even worse... lose your job! Praise God that I have a job that seems (for the time being) stable and one that I enjoy. Praise God that I am not that far in debt!
I also really enjoy this portion of Dave Ramsey's website... gives me hope that someday I'll be able to call in and yell FREEDOM! I will be there someday! And hopefully sooner rather than later.
5.13.2009
Terms of Credit
There was in the December 2007 issue of Real Simple explaining some of the terminology of the financial world. I am always baffled by the terminology of the financial world- so much to try and keep straight, not to mention understand!
They gave a little cheat sheet of some of the more common terms- thought I would share a couple with you!
Balance Transfer- moving debt from one credit card to another, usually to get a better interest rate.
Credit History- a record of how you have repaid all your past credit obligations.
Credit Report- an accounting of your credit standing, including your credit history and public records.
Credit Score- a numerical evaluation of your credit worthiness, based on past performance (amount of debt, length of credit history, new credit applied or, payment history, etc).
Debt-to-available credit ratio- the total amount of money you owe compared with the total amount of credit available to you on all your cards.
Double Cycle Billing- a calculation of interest over two cycles (say, 60 days) rather than one cycle.
Grace Period- the time (usually 20 to 30 days) in which you can avoid any finance charges by fully paying off a balance.
Trailing Interest- interest charge daily after a credit accounting period ends until payment is received.
If the term has a link, it is what I could find on Dave Ramsey's website about it (whether he thinks it is a good idea, his definition, etc).
What are you learning about in the finance world? Are you working hard to pay off debts? Do it! The freedom (or even that taste of freedom) is addicting! :-)
They gave a little cheat sheet of some of the more common terms- thought I would share a couple with you!
Balance Transfer- moving debt from one credit card to another, usually to get a better interest rate.
Credit History- a record of how you have repaid all your past credit obligations.
Credit Report- an accounting of your credit standing, including your credit history and public records.
Credit Score- a numerical evaluation of your credit worthiness, based on past performance (amount of debt, length of credit history, new credit applied or, payment history, etc).
Debt-to-available credit ratio- the total amount of money you owe compared with the total amount of credit available to you on all your cards.
Double Cycle Billing- a calculation of interest over two cycles (say, 60 days) rather than one cycle.
Grace Period- the time (usually 20 to 30 days) in which you can avoid any finance charges by fully paying off a balance.
Trailing Interest- interest charge daily after a credit accounting period ends until payment is received.
If the term has a link, it is what I could find on Dave Ramsey's website about it (whether he thinks it is a good idea, his definition, etc).
What are you learning about in the finance world? Are you working hard to pay off debts? Do it! The freedom (or even that taste of freedom) is addicting! :-)
4.20.2009
Baby Step 2: Complete!
Yep, you read the post title right. I am done with Baby Step 2 on my Baby Steps to Financial Freedom (no debt, solid savings, etc)!
Yes, yes... please join me in another happy dance.
I got my Tax Return this weekend. I applied almost all of it to my Short-term savings account and hit my goal! :-) So here is how my Baby Steps look at this point:
1) Save $2000 in long term, high-yield savings account.- DONE!
2) Save $1000 in short term, (emergency) savings account.- DONE!
3) Pay off three remaining credit-card debts- getting closer
a) Bank of America Card- DONE!
b) Wachovia Credit Card- DONE!
c) Northwest Credit Card- working hard. It is my goal to have this paid off by my 26th birthday...
d) Chase Credit Card
4) Pay off car
5) Save 3 to 6 months worth of expenses in high-yield savings account
6) Start investing 15% of income in retirement (either Roth IRA or pre-tax retirement plan)
7) Buy a home, build wealth and give freely!
Exciting :-). Now, as you can tell (and as I mentioned in this post), I have added a credit card to Step 3. Why? It was paid off before I started following the baby steps, but I felt like it was something I did accomplish and I should celebrate that effort. So, that is why you see the change.
Anyway... hope you all are working on becoming debt free, too! I know it is only through God's help that I am getting this far. Thank you, Jesus for motivating me, convicting me and growing me in how I approach my finances. It is freedom knowing that I will be without debt soon enough.
Yes, yes... please join me in another happy dance.
I got my Tax Return this weekend. I applied almost all of it to my Short-term savings account and hit my goal! :-) So here is how my Baby Steps look at this point:
1) Save $2000 in long term, high-yield savings account.- DONE!
2) Save $1000 in short term, (emergency) savings account.- DONE!
3) Pay off three remaining credit-card debts- getting closer
a) Bank of America Card- DONE!
b) Wachovia Credit Card- DONE!
c) Northwest Credit Card- working hard. It is my goal to have this paid off by my 26th birthday...
d) Chase Credit Card
4) Pay off car
5) Save 3 to 6 months worth of expenses in high-yield savings account
6) Start investing 15% of income in retirement (either Roth IRA or pre-tax retirement plan)
7) Buy a home, build wealth and give freely!
Exciting :-). Now, as you can tell (and as I mentioned in this post), I have added a credit card to Step 3. Why? It was paid off before I started following the baby steps, but I felt like it was something I did accomplish and I should celebrate that effort. So, that is why you see the change.
Anyway... hope you all are working on becoming debt free, too! I know it is only through God's help that I am getting this far. Thank you, Jesus for motivating me, convicting me and growing me in how I approach my finances. It is freedom knowing that I will be without debt soon enough.
3.16.2009
Baby Step 3a: Complete!
Yep- I am one step further in becoming debt free. And I am doing a small happy dance right now. I have paid off one of my three credit card bills! :-)! :-)! :-)!
Will you join me in the happy dance?
I know that I haven't completed Step 2 yet- the trip to Disney and Christmas made it harder to save than I wanted. Until I get the Short Term Savings where I want it, I will only be paying minimum on my two outstanding credit card debts.
In case you care, here are how my baby steps are coming:
1) Save $2000 in long term, high-yield savings account.- DONE!
2) Save $1000 in short term, (emergency) savings account.- about 2/3 of the way there
3) Pay off three remaining credit-card debts- getting closer
a) Wachovia Credit Card- DONE!
b) Northwest Credit Card
c) Chase Credit Card
4) Pay off car
5) Save 3 to 6 months worth of expenses in high-yield savings account
6) Start investing 15% of income in retirement (either Roth IRA or pre-tax retirement plan)
7) Buy a home, build wealth and give freely!
If you are in debt- do something about it. I still have quite a bit to go, but knowing I am making a dent in it is freeing... and what has really helped? having a written budget. Do it- it is worth the peace of mind!
Now, to complete Step 2... and then finish step 3. I think I can, I think I can, I KNOW I can.
Will you join me in the happy dance?
I know that I haven't completed Step 2 yet- the trip to Disney and Christmas made it harder to save than I wanted. Until I get the Short Term Savings where I want it, I will only be paying minimum on my two outstanding credit card debts.
In case you care, here are how my baby steps are coming:
1) Save $2000 in long term, high-yield savings account.- DONE!
2) Save $1000 in short term, (emergency) savings account.- about 2/3 of the way there
3) Pay off three remaining credit-card debts- getting closer
a) Wachovia Credit Card- DONE!
b) Northwest Credit Card
c) Chase Credit Card
4) Pay off car
5) Save 3 to 6 months worth of expenses in high-yield savings account
6) Start investing 15% of income in retirement (either Roth IRA or pre-tax retirement plan)
7) Buy a home, build wealth and give freely!
If you are in debt- do something about it. I still have quite a bit to go, but knowing I am making a dent in it is freeing... and what has really helped? having a written budget. Do it- it is worth the peace of mind!
Now, to complete Step 2... and then finish step 3. I think I can, I think I can, I KNOW I can.
1.12.2009
Self-Reliance
I thought this was interesting article about being self reliant in an economic down turn, and emergency. I am taking small steps to being debt free (see this post). But I have ofter wondered what I would do in a true emergency. Americans today wouldn't know what to do. How would be get around? What would we do for food? If we had another Great Depression I fear we would be much worse off- mainly because we aren't self-reliant. I am thinking about borrowing the books the article mentions from the library. I'll let you know what I think.
12.15.2008
Baby Step Number 1: Complete!
So, as I have mentioned in previous posts, I am working on getting myself out of this Credit Card Debt and just being all around smarter with my money... and it is more than that. I also need to be glorifying the Lord with how I handle money, and right now I am not. I am not trusting Him to provide all things; I am attempting to control it... and that will never work. I need to open my hands and let go of many things in my life right now, and finances are just one of them.
Anyway... I have some good habits. I use a modified version of the 10-10-80 plan. Instead, I have used the 10-10-10-70 plan since I graduated from college. I live off of (or try to) what my take home amount is on my paycheck (what I get after taxes). I tithe the first 10%, put the second 10% in long term savings and finally the third 10% goes to short term savings. Here is the problem... I never really knew what I wanted to do with that money, or what "long-term" means vs. "short-term." And well, the bigger problem, early on I lived beyond my means and that is where I am right now. Learning what I need versus what I want. I earn enough that as a single adult I should be able to live off what I earn and then have some leftover. But debt and interest eats away at that. So, I need to modify, people.
I also (pre-tax) put money in a 403(b)-- the non-profit version of a 401(k). I only put in the minimum amount though, to get the match. This past fall I met with my company's financial planner and he helped me pick my funds based on my age, performance, etc. I must say, he did a pretty good job. Despite the stock market crumbling, my 403(b) doesn't look too shabby. Long way off from being able to retire on it, but that is ok... I won't be retiring anytime soon.
So... what does this have to do with now? Well, because I am in debt, and I want to live a debt-free life... and use my money to better honor God, I am making some changes. Thanks to some advice from my friend Jessica, I looked into Dave Ramsey's plan, as well as looked at my church's program through Crown Financial. At this point in time, I am not joining a class or Bible Study for it, but I like a lot of what they say about getting out of debt. For right now, I am using a modified Dave Ramsey's "Debt Snowball." Here are my Baby Steps:
1) Save $2000 in long term, high-yield savings account.
2) Save $1000 in short term, (emergency) savings account.
3) Pay off three remaining credit-card debts
4) Pay off car
5) Save 3 to 6 months worth of expenses in high-yield savings account
6) Start investing 15% of income in retirement (either Roth IRA or pre-tax retirement plan)
7) Buy a home, build wealth and give freely!
What do you think? I think it is manageable... especially since I have just completed Baby Step #1!!! I am working on Baby Step #2 right now. The one big stumbling block on number 2 is my Disney World trip in Feb, but that is ok. I am only paying in cash for that and don't mind dipping into the short-term savings to make sure that I don't use the Credit Card.
I believe I mentioned a while ago that my computer crashed... I have rigged it to work for now, so I have put buying a laptop on hold for awhile... especially since I have a laptop for work. A new computer isn't a need right now... just a want. There are lots of things I want, but they won't help me get out of debt any faster.
I also have a couple of goals for the new year and my money spending habits:
- stop all credit card use
- start using this budget worksheet I have found (to better understand how I spend my money so I can set up a realistic budget)
- set up a budget
Anyway, here are all my current budget/financial thoughts. Let me know if you have any comments and/or tips that have been working for you!
Anyway... I have some good habits. I use a modified version of the 10-10-80 plan. Instead, I have used the 10-10-10-70 plan since I graduated from college. I live off of (or try to) what my take home amount is on my paycheck (what I get after taxes). I tithe the first 10%, put the second 10% in long term savings and finally the third 10% goes to short term savings. Here is the problem... I never really knew what I wanted to do with that money, or what "long-term" means vs. "short-term." And well, the bigger problem, early on I lived beyond my means and that is where I am right now. Learning what I need versus what I want. I earn enough that as a single adult I should be able to live off what I earn and then have some leftover. But debt and interest eats away at that. So, I need to modify, people.
I also (pre-tax) put money in a 403(b)-- the non-profit version of a 401(k). I only put in the minimum amount though, to get the match. This past fall I met with my company's financial planner and he helped me pick my funds based on my age, performance, etc. I must say, he did a pretty good job. Despite the stock market crumbling, my 403(b) doesn't look too shabby. Long way off from being able to retire on it, but that is ok... I won't be retiring anytime soon.
So... what does this have to do with now? Well, because I am in debt, and I want to live a debt-free life... and use my money to better honor God, I am making some changes. Thanks to some advice from my friend Jessica, I looked into Dave Ramsey's plan, as well as looked at my church's program through Crown Financial. At this point in time, I am not joining a class or Bible Study for it, but I like a lot of what they say about getting out of debt. For right now, I am using a modified Dave Ramsey's "Debt Snowball." Here are my Baby Steps:
1) Save $2000 in long term, high-yield savings account.
2) Save $1000 in short term, (emergency) savings account.
3) Pay off three remaining credit-card debts
4) Pay off car
5) Save 3 to 6 months worth of expenses in high-yield savings account
6) Start investing 15% of income in retirement (either Roth IRA or pre-tax retirement plan)
7) Buy a home, build wealth and give freely!
What do you think? I think it is manageable... especially since I have just completed Baby Step #1!!! I am working on Baby Step #2 right now. The one big stumbling block on number 2 is my Disney World trip in Feb, but that is ok. I am only paying in cash for that and don't mind dipping into the short-term savings to make sure that I don't use the Credit Card.
I believe I mentioned a while ago that my computer crashed... I have rigged it to work for now, so I have put buying a laptop on hold for awhile... especially since I have a laptop for work. A new computer isn't a need right now... just a want. There are lots of things I want, but they won't help me get out of debt any faster.
I also have a couple of goals for the new year and my money spending habits:
- stop all credit card use
- start using this budget worksheet I have found (to better understand how I spend my money so I can set up a realistic budget)
- set up a budget
Anyway, here are all my current budget/financial thoughts. Let me know if you have any comments and/or tips that have been working for you!
9.25.2008
Financial Crisis
I will be the first to admit that finance and politics really aren't all that interesting to me. I believe that I have said it before, but I will say it again... I have lots of opinions but ultimately don't know if blaming a party is the way to go.
So, here is the article of my frustration.
Do I know who caused this financial situation?
NO.
Do I care who caused it?
Not really.
Do I think Democrats blaming Republicans and Republicans blaming Democrats is going to help?
Absolutely NOT.
Ok, so personally, I have traditionally voted Democrat. Will that always be the way I vote? I don't know. I am very middle of the road. And probably because I don't think being bipartisan or blaming each other is going to allow for change or reform. Change, in my opinion, comes from the grassroots, from people acting out the change they want to see.
I do think that there is blame in situation. Some of those who were given mortgages and loans should have never been given them in the first place. Maybe there should have been more government oversight. However, we are here now people. Where do we go from here?
I don't know. I am trying to do my part... learn how to be financially responsible for myself and for my future. I am trying to learn what it looks like to truly honor God with all of my purchases, with all that He has entrusted to me.
Maybe if we all, businesses and government included, learned how to be financially responsible and not greedy, we might be in a better place. But, then that would call for a change of heart. A change in how we all approach money and life. We live in a fallen world, and I just pray for a day when we won't have know this type of worry and suffering anymore.
Christ, teach me and us how to trust you to provide for us, even amidst the uncertainty of these times. Teach me how to live You out to others during this time. Lord, come soon! We again have proven that we are fallen and can do nothing without You. I pray for those who are now without a home and little money. May this draw them to you. I pray for those who are now worried about their fortunes. May they, too, come to know you. May be we all just turn to you rather than to our own capabilities... because those will fail us. Lord, thank you for using all things to draw us to you. Amen.
So, here is the article of my frustration.
Do I know who caused this financial situation?
NO.
Do I care who caused it?
Not really.
Do I think Democrats blaming Republicans and Republicans blaming Democrats is going to help?
Absolutely NOT.
Ok, so personally, I have traditionally voted Democrat. Will that always be the way I vote? I don't know. I am very middle of the road. And probably because I don't think being bipartisan or blaming each other is going to allow for change or reform. Change, in my opinion, comes from the grassroots, from people acting out the change they want to see.
I do think that there is blame in situation. Some of those who were given mortgages and loans should have never been given them in the first place. Maybe there should have been more government oversight. However, we are here now people. Where do we go from here?
I don't know. I am trying to do my part... learn how to be financially responsible for myself and for my future. I am trying to learn what it looks like to truly honor God with all of my purchases, with all that He has entrusted to me.
Maybe if we all, businesses and government included, learned how to be financially responsible and not greedy, we might be in a better place. But, then that would call for a change of heart. A change in how we all approach money and life. We live in a fallen world, and I just pray for a day when we won't have know this type of worry and suffering anymore.
Christ, teach me and us how to trust you to provide for us, even amidst the uncertainty of these times. Teach me how to live You out to others during this time. Lord, come soon! We again have proven that we are fallen and can do nothing without You. I pray for those who are now without a home and little money. May this draw them to you. I pray for those who are now worried about their fortunes. May they, too, come to know you. May be we all just turn to you rather than to our own capabilities... because those will fail us. Lord, thank you for using all things to draw us to you. Amen.
9.23.2008
Spending...
Good Morning Blog world.
I took the day off yesterday and it was probably one of the best decisions I made in a long time. Today I am feeling refreshed and ready to take on the world. So, watch out here I come!
On another note... my thoughts on my spending habits.
I have very bad spending habits. I mean... very bad spending habits. And what is worse... I am not very good at denying myself things. If I want it, I buy it. Without much thought either. And as you can guess, that has probably gotten me into some trouble these last couple of years.
Now, I do want to say... people, I am not in serious debt. I am doing fine.
However, if I don't get these bad habits under control, I will be in trouble.
So, what am I doing about it? Well, I am praying about it. I am telling you about it, as well as considering telling a couple of people in my life right now so that they can help me and keep me accountable.
I am also praying about maybe taking a Sunday School class at church that goes through the Crown Financial Series. I think a class just started so I may have to wait until next "semester." (can you believe that semesters still rule your life post college...)
But I am also trying to go on a spending fast. I have read about people who do these for many reasons. They seem to be very trendy right now.... you now... the American kick to not appear to be so materialistic and all.
Well, I guess I am doing my own version of it. What does it look like you ask? Let me tell you.
Of course I can buy the necessities. Food... duh. But, only what I need. Hence why no more buying soda. no more buying ice cream or candy. Just what I need to survive. Do I need that candy bar? no.
Clothing. I have plenty... so no new clothes. There are a couple of items I am allowed to buy though. If I need new undergarments, I can buy those. I am also in desperate need for a new pair of tennis shoes. The pair I am wearing now, I have had since Junior year of college... maybe earlier. It is time to retire them. But that really cute black wrap dress? no... I don't need those. What about if a really cute shirt is on clearance? No... I don't NEED it. I have how many shirts in my closet? in my drawers? no... tennis shoes. And, if I get a hole in one of my pairs of jeans I can replace them. But that is it.
Books. Nope... no new ones here either. I have plenty of books on my book shelf that need to be read first. And then after that... it is called a library. They are your friend. I will use them.
What about Scrapbooking stuff, you ask? a no go there. I have plenty of materials to play with in my drawers. So... I am going to use that stuff first. It is time to let go of the idea that I need new stuff to be creative, to be happy. What is that idea, and where did it come from? I have plenty of stuff in my apartment. Stuff that I don't ever use. It is time to discover what I have, use it and let the idea that I need to buy something disappear.
The hard part is knowing where to draw the line socially. How many times a week is too much for eating out? I feel like I go out a lot, and that is a place I need to cute down. I'll let you know what I decide about that.
Anyway... that is a small part of my plan. A spending fast, of sorts.
Let me know if you have any advice on how to make my bad habits into good ones. Change is happening. I am growing up.... slowly but surely.
I took the day off yesterday and it was probably one of the best decisions I made in a long time. Today I am feeling refreshed and ready to take on the world. So, watch out here I come!
On another note... my thoughts on my spending habits.
I have very bad spending habits. I mean... very bad spending habits. And what is worse... I am not very good at denying myself things. If I want it, I buy it. Without much thought either. And as you can guess, that has probably gotten me into some trouble these last couple of years.
Now, I do want to say... people, I am not in serious debt. I am doing fine.
However, if I don't get these bad habits under control, I will be in trouble.
So, what am I doing about it? Well, I am praying about it. I am telling you about it, as well as considering telling a couple of people in my life right now so that they can help me and keep me accountable.
I am also praying about maybe taking a Sunday School class at church that goes through the Crown Financial Series. I think a class just started so I may have to wait until next "semester." (can you believe that semesters still rule your life post college...)
But I am also trying to go on a spending fast. I have read about people who do these for many reasons. They seem to be very trendy right now.... you now... the American kick to not appear to be so materialistic and all.
Well, I guess I am doing my own version of it. What does it look like you ask? Let me tell you.
Of course I can buy the necessities. Food... duh. But, only what I need. Hence why no more buying soda. no more buying ice cream or candy. Just what I need to survive. Do I need that candy bar? no.
Clothing. I have plenty... so no new clothes. There are a couple of items I am allowed to buy though. If I need new undergarments, I can buy those. I am also in desperate need for a new pair of tennis shoes. The pair I am wearing now, I have had since Junior year of college... maybe earlier. It is time to retire them. But that really cute black wrap dress? no... I don't need those. What about if a really cute shirt is on clearance? No... I don't NEED it. I have how many shirts in my closet? in my drawers? no... tennis shoes. And, if I get a hole in one of my pairs of jeans I can replace them. But that is it.
Books. Nope... no new ones here either. I have plenty of books on my book shelf that need to be read first. And then after that... it is called a library. They are your friend. I will use them.
What about Scrapbooking stuff, you ask? a no go there. I have plenty of materials to play with in my drawers. So... I am going to use that stuff first. It is time to let go of the idea that I need new stuff to be creative, to be happy. What is that idea, and where did it come from? I have plenty of stuff in my apartment. Stuff that I don't ever use. It is time to discover what I have, use it and let the idea that I need to buy something disappear.
The hard part is knowing where to draw the line socially. How many times a week is too much for eating out? I feel like I go out a lot, and that is a place I need to cute down. I'll let you know what I decide about that.
Anyway... that is a small part of my plan. A spending fast, of sorts.
Let me know if you have any advice on how to make my bad habits into good ones. Change is happening. I am growing up.... slowly but surely.
5.21.2007
one thing, now another
So, I was going to talk about Busch Gardens today... but that will have to wait.
Why, because sometimes I need to complain. And today would be one of these days. Oh yes, it is.
So, I like being an adult. FREEDOM is all I have to say about it. I can support myself... most of the time.
But then days like today happen.
I got a call from my dentist. Evidently, my insurance won't cover anything but the cleaning (so, the x-rays, the filling to fix the old one) until after I have been on it for a year or something. So, yea... I get to pay $400 out of my own pocket. Why didn't anyone tell me this!?!?! This sucks!!!
and, do I have $400 just lying around. Pretty much... no. Yippee...
ok, enough complaining. Tomorrow we will discuss Busch Gardens.
Why, because sometimes I need to complain. And today would be one of these days. Oh yes, it is.
So, I like being an adult. FREEDOM is all I have to say about it. I can support myself... most of the time.
But then days like today happen.
I got a call from my dentist. Evidently, my insurance won't cover anything but the cleaning (so, the x-rays, the filling to fix the old one) until after I have been on it for a year or something. So, yea... I get to pay $400 out of my own pocket. Why didn't anyone tell me this!?!?! This sucks!!!
and, do I have $400 just lying around. Pretty much... no. Yippee...
ok, enough complaining. Tomorrow we will discuss Busch Gardens.
5.01.2007
It's all bills...
Laurie and I carpool to and from work. It is great. We save on gas and on our parking pass. So, all in all a good deal.
Everyday, when we get home, we stop by the mailboxes. Whoever is in the passenger seat gets out and gets the mail. Not too bad of a deal, I have to say.
Well, yesterday it was mine turn to get the mail. I run out and open up our mailbox. One bill for me. One letter for Laurie. Some junk mail for Current Resident. FIVE CREDIT CARD OFFERS FOR ME!
WHAT!?!?! First of all, how did they get my name. Second of all, why do you insist on sending me the same offer EVERY WEEK, mister credit card company. Third of all, if I haven't signed up yet, do you really think I am going to now?
AHHH!!! Not only is it annoying... but they are wasting paper. Just leave me alone!!!
When I was young, I used tell my parents, "I wish I got mail like you." And they would always reply, "No you don't. It's all bills." Well, they were almost right. Not that I love to get bills... but it isn't all bills. It is all credit card offers. And, I certainly don't want that!
How do I get off their lists... anyone?
Everyday, when we get home, we stop by the mailboxes. Whoever is in the passenger seat gets out and gets the mail. Not too bad of a deal, I have to say.
Well, yesterday it was mine turn to get the mail. I run out and open up our mailbox. One bill for me. One letter for Laurie. Some junk mail for Current Resident. FIVE CREDIT CARD OFFERS FOR ME!
WHAT!?!?! First of all, how did they get my name. Second of all, why do you insist on sending me the same offer EVERY WEEK, mister credit card company. Third of all, if I haven't signed up yet, do you really think I am going to now?
AHHH!!! Not only is it annoying... but they are wasting paper. Just leave me alone!!!
When I was young, I used tell my parents, "I wish I got mail like you." And they would always reply, "No you don't. It's all bills." Well, they were almost right. Not that I love to get bills... but it isn't all bills. It is all credit card offers. And, I certainly don't want that!
How do I get off their lists... anyone?
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