Weddings Weddings everywhere!
Loveyy and I are getting married June 23rd. His Brother is getting married in March! How exciting.
So with all that being said I have gone ahead and purchase the dress already.
I bought :
-The dress
-A crystal necklace with pearl
-A veil
-Undergarments
All for the grand total of $1,085 (Alterations not yet factored in)
I know the number seems a bit scary, but in all honesty, if you've ever been through a wedding, you know its a pretty darn good price for the dress of my dreams. I'm frugal in every category but this one. You only get married once (hopefully).
So mom is splitting the cost with me right down the middle, and luckily we have an amazing dress shop, so they are allowing us to make payments on the dress. Every two weeks mom and I each pay $30. So that is roughly $120 a month towards our dress.
We have made 3 payments on it so far - so we are down to $905.
That means we have 15 more payments - with our last payment being $65. We will officially be finished paying off the dress by the first week of February!
Which is amazing. And a lot easier on our wallets. No one is touching their savings this way and going a trillion dollars into debt.
If you haven't gotten married yet - I seriously suggest you find a place that allows you to do this - Interest free.
Thursday, July 12, 2012
Friday, June 22, 2012
Time for a Check-In
Its been a while since I posted last.
Honestly, sometimes life just gets in the way!
We have been busy since we moved to New Hampshire, mom and I have been planting gardens, and tending the yard harder than I thought possible. Between getting the vegetable garden going, and putting in two new gardens (one for pumpkins and one for flowers). And I have been enjoying every minute of it.
Now, getting down to the "Personal" finance aspects of things.
I am up to 32 hours a week at work! FULL TIME BABY. It happened much, much quicker than I had anticipated. In two and a half more months I will be eligible for company health, dental, and vision insurance, and I have to be honest, I could not be happier about it. As of right now, I am accruing my PTO. I also get PAID holidays. Never in my wildest dreams, did I think that I would be receiving Money, to sit at home and enjoy the fireworks on the fourth of July. On top of it all I Love My Job.
Not that it's not tough. I work with disabled adults, so it has its challenges, but at the end of the day, I feel like I have accomplished something really meaningful.
I also have Money in Savings!... Not much, and most of it will be depleted shortly, when Auston goes back to Florida to get his car. But still, we steadily add to it each week. And that is something I have never been able to do before. So I am proud.
We are also sound enough to take $50 out of each paycheck (every two weeks) and put it towards a date night. So we get to go out and do something small every weekend, which is lovely.
I got the idea after seeing my grandmother go out every Friday night with Grampy.
We take $100 every two weeks and go grocery shopping, so the food has been good! In Florida we went maybe once a month, and food in the house was scarce to say the least. And we definitely didn't have Snacks. So that has me stoked too, we hardly actually spend the $100, so leftovers gets put aside for later.
All in all, things are looking up. Its still tight for us, and we are about to enter into some more bills as we take over the house this month, but we are making it. We have room to move too, I can cut back on things if I have to, like date night, so I'm not to panicked.
Now, A briefing on my up and coming wedding! AHHHH.
We set the date for June 23rd, 2013.
A few weeks ago I bought my dress. And my Veil. And a beautiful necklace made with crystals and pearls. And my Sexy Undergarments. All for $1,085. Can you Say heck yea?!
The dress is truly beautiful, and I couldn't be happier with it.
The best part is that they are letting us make payments. We put $100 down and my mom and I are splitting the cost, so I pay $60 a month, it will be paid off by January. Which is awesome.
We are going simple for the wedding, we are having in the yard. And paying for things as we go throughout the year. That way the financial toll won't be too bad.
And there you have it! I will try and update more often. Shame on me :)
Honestly, sometimes life just gets in the way!
We have been busy since we moved to New Hampshire, mom and I have been planting gardens, and tending the yard harder than I thought possible. Between getting the vegetable garden going, and putting in two new gardens (one for pumpkins and one for flowers). And I have been enjoying every minute of it.
Now, getting down to the "Personal" finance aspects of things.
I am up to 32 hours a week at work! FULL TIME BABY. It happened much, much quicker than I had anticipated. In two and a half more months I will be eligible for company health, dental, and vision insurance, and I have to be honest, I could not be happier about it. As of right now, I am accruing my PTO. I also get PAID holidays. Never in my wildest dreams, did I think that I would be receiving Money, to sit at home and enjoy the fireworks on the fourth of July. On top of it all I Love My Job.
Not that it's not tough. I work with disabled adults, so it has its challenges, but at the end of the day, I feel like I have accomplished something really meaningful.
I also have Money in Savings!... Not much, and most of it will be depleted shortly, when Auston goes back to Florida to get his car. But still, we steadily add to it each week. And that is something I have never been able to do before. So I am proud.
We are also sound enough to take $50 out of each paycheck (every two weeks) and put it towards a date night. So we get to go out and do something small every weekend, which is lovely.
I got the idea after seeing my grandmother go out every Friday night with Grampy.
We take $100 every two weeks and go grocery shopping, so the food has been good! In Florida we went maybe once a month, and food in the house was scarce to say the least. And we definitely didn't have Snacks. So that has me stoked too, we hardly actually spend the $100, so leftovers gets put aside for later.
All in all, things are looking up. Its still tight for us, and we are about to enter into some more bills as we take over the house this month, but we are making it. We have room to move too, I can cut back on things if I have to, like date night, so I'm not to panicked.
Now, A briefing on my up and coming wedding! AHHHH.
We set the date for June 23rd, 2013.
A few weeks ago I bought my dress. And my Veil. And a beautiful necklace made with crystals and pearls. And my Sexy Undergarments. All for $1,085. Can you Say heck yea?!
The dress is truly beautiful, and I couldn't be happier with it.
The best part is that they are letting us make payments. We put $100 down and my mom and I are splitting the cost, so I pay $60 a month, it will be paid off by January. Which is awesome.
We are going simple for the wedding, we are having in the yard. And paying for things as we go throughout the year. That way the financial toll won't be too bad.
And there you have it! I will try and update more often. Shame on me :)
Tuesday, April 3, 2012
Hand Crushing Peppers.
So I have been shadowing at my new job for two days now.
It been pretty good thus far.
And thats pretty much all I can say.
Because I work with disabled clients, talking about my day at work is pretty much a Huge No-No.
I am so excited for my paycheck though!
Mom and I have been getting the yard ready to garden, and I am so excited. I have already started a bunch of seeds inside.
My main goal is to grow enough herbs to maybe sell a few on the side. (one can hope)
Yesterday I crushed up some dried hot peppers. We had tons leftover from last year. I filled an alfredo jar full!
I have a mortar and pistol I hardly ever get to use so I was excited. It would be safe to say that was a fairly large mistake. The pepper dust filled the air and I was tearing up and coughing, and I thought I might die. It was fun though. And now we have home grown crushed hot peppers.
So excited.
It been pretty good thus far.
And thats pretty much all I can say.
Because I work with disabled clients, talking about my day at work is pretty much a Huge No-No.
I am so excited for my paycheck though!
Mom and I have been getting the yard ready to garden, and I am so excited. I have already started a bunch of seeds inside.
My main goal is to grow enough herbs to maybe sell a few on the side. (one can hope)
Yesterday I crushed up some dried hot peppers. We had tons leftover from last year. I filled an alfredo jar full!
I have a mortar and pistol I hardly ever get to use so I was excited. It would be safe to say that was a fairly large mistake. The pepper dust filled the air and I was tearing up and coughing, and I thought I might die. It was fun though. And now we have home grown crushed hot peppers.
So excited.
Sunday, April 1, 2012
Closing out March.
I haven't posted much lately. Mainly because I haven't been working, so I haven't had anything financial to talk about.
I had orientation for my new job on Friday though, so hopefully the financial chats will be rolling in soon!
Since its the first of April I thought I would do a recap on my goals for March.
Here they are -
I must warn you though, it isn't pretty.
March
-Do some exercise 3 times a week.
My original goal for the year was to walk 3 miles a week. But finding the time to walk was difficult. So I'm changing it to exercise. Any kind. 3 times a week.
Uh. Well here's the deal. I haven't been tracking this. But I can tell you that I have been very active, taking walks and raking, and so I cant say whether I passed or failed.
-Attempt to put $200 in my emergency Fund.
I haven't put anything in here yet, but if I'm going to get to $2,000 by January, I need to start being more aggresive with it.
Done. wonderful. $200 smackaroo's sitting in the bank.
Its a wonderful thing.
-Show Auston the awesomeness that is New Hampshire.
I grew up here. He is moving from Florida for the first time in his life. I just want him to understand the beauty and coolness of where we are going to.
We have driven around, and sight seen. and over all he is very happy. So I consider this a success.
-Donate $90 to a charity of my choosing.
A little more than last month, but I can't skip out on a month, or else meeting my goal for the year will be near impossible.
Hmm, well. It took longer to get into my position than I had anticipated, So I wasn't able to put this money in.
Also because I was let go of my last job earlier than anticipated lat year I wasn't able to Donate the $80 like I wanted. So I am really far behind in this. We will see how it goes.
-Sew 3 baby bibs.
I want to start sweing and selling different items to help pay for our adoption fee's in the upcoming years. Hopefully I will be gitting a machine shortly.
Not even one.
-Write another Chapter in my book.
I have been neglecting my story :( And it is off to such a great start. So this month I want to sit down, and really focus on it.
Fail. Fail Fail.
There you have it.
My not so success for the month.
After some careful thought though, I think I just had to much planned for such a stressful point this year. We just moved to a new state.
This month has simple goals:
April
1.) Cash. Pay for things in cash, so I will have change to stick in my sealed pot.
2.) Pay for May & Junes Rent in advance.
3.) Start running. I really want to and I am just to chicken to try.
I had orientation for my new job on Friday though, so hopefully the financial chats will be rolling in soon!
Since its the first of April I thought I would do a recap on my goals for March.
Here they are -
I must warn you though, it isn't pretty.
March
-Do some exercise 3 times a week.
My original goal for the year was to walk 3 miles a week. But finding the time to walk was difficult. So I'm changing it to exercise. Any kind. 3 times a week.
Uh. Well here's the deal. I haven't been tracking this. But I can tell you that I have been very active, taking walks and raking, and so I cant say whether I passed or failed.
-Attempt to put $200 in my emergency Fund.
I haven't put anything in here yet, but if I'm going to get to $2,000 by January, I need to start being more aggresive with it.
Done. wonderful. $200 smackaroo's sitting in the bank.
Its a wonderful thing.
-Show Auston the awesomeness that is New Hampshire.
I grew up here. He is moving from Florida for the first time in his life. I just want him to understand the beauty and coolness of where we are going to.
We have driven around, and sight seen. and over all he is very happy. So I consider this a success.
-Donate $90 to a charity of my choosing.
A little more than last month, but I can't skip out on a month, or else meeting my goal for the year will be near impossible.
Hmm, well. It took longer to get into my position than I had anticipated, So I wasn't able to put this money in.
Also because I was let go of my last job earlier than anticipated lat year I wasn't able to Donate the $80 like I wanted. So I am really far behind in this. We will see how it goes.
-Sew 3 baby bibs.
I want to start sweing and selling different items to help pay for our adoption fee's in the upcoming years. Hopefully I will be gitting a machine shortly.
Not even one.
-Write another Chapter in my book.
I have been neglecting my story :( And it is off to such a great start. So this month I want to sit down, and really focus on it.
Fail. Fail Fail.
There you have it.
My not so success for the month.
After some careful thought though, I think I just had to much planned for such a stressful point this year. We just moved to a new state.
This month has simple goals:
April
1.) Cash. Pay for things in cash, so I will have change to stick in my sealed pot.
2.) Pay for May & Junes Rent in advance.
3.) Start running. I really want to and I am just to chicken to try.
Thursday, March 15, 2012
Old school, but still awesome
So the other day mom and I were talking about the new bills we were going to have to pay once her boyfried moves out and the house becomes ours. There were so many things that I just couldn't keep my head straight and I was trying to tally it up and come up with a rough estimate of what our monthly bill total will be and I just couldn't. Mainly because we still aren't sure about a few things. Like whether or not we would have cable or Netflix, or whos name would go under certain bills.
I was getting a bit anxious. I've been waiting tables or bartending for over two years now and the thought of living on a paycheck instead of tips is a bit strange. So I was thinking and thinking about how to keep the bills straight, so I wouldn't overspend and be caught off guard.
This is what I came up with -
I went to the store and bought a big sheet of bright colored poster paper. On the top of it I wrote Month, followed by Bill #1, #2-10, EF contribution, Car Savings and finally the total of it all for each month. Then I made lines for each column, wrote the months going along the left hand side and proceeded to fill it in.
I am really happy with it because now I have a way to keep the bills straight, and I made sure to include enough columns so if a random bill we don't typically have like gifts, or a trip to the vet comes up we can factor that in for the month as well.
I'm going to post it up in my kitchen, where I can be sure to see it everyday.
I know this idea isn't new by any means, but for me it seemed to be the easiest way to keep up with it all.
The board isn't beautiful. I'll probably make a new one and lamanate it and make it SUPER awesome later on, but for now this works.
What about you? How do you keep the bills straight?
I was getting a bit anxious. I've been waiting tables or bartending for over two years now and the thought of living on a paycheck instead of tips is a bit strange. So I was thinking and thinking about how to keep the bills straight, so I wouldn't overspend and be caught off guard.
This is what I came up with -
I went to the store and bought a big sheet of bright colored poster paper. On the top of it I wrote Month, followed by Bill #1, #2-10, EF contribution, Car Savings and finally the total of it all for each month. Then I made lines for each column, wrote the months going along the left hand side and proceeded to fill it in.
I am really happy with it because now I have a way to keep the bills straight, and I made sure to include enough columns so if a random bill we don't typically have like gifts, or a trip to the vet comes up we can factor that in for the month as well.
I'm going to post it up in my kitchen, where I can be sure to see it everyday.
I know this idea isn't new by any means, but for me it seemed to be the easiest way to keep up with it all.
The board isn't beautiful. I'll probably make a new one and lamanate it and make it SUPER awesome later on, but for now this works.
What about you? How do you keep the bills straight?
Wednesday, March 14, 2012
A little of this and that.
I swear to you you'd think I was applying for the CIA.
All the paperwork that goes with the job I'm hoping for. And the real kicker is, I havent even technically been accepted yet!
NUTS!
Its a bunch of faxing things, and e-mails, and basically making sure I'm not a creep.
I am so excited to start work but in the mean time my money pot is dwindling FAST. Its got me a bit on edge.
On the upside though, I managed to put $200 into savings this month! Woo-hoo. Now the challenge : to keep it there!
I also was still able to add money to my car Fund, which brings it up to $90. :)
On the downside, I was let go from my last job sooner than I had hoped so I wasn't able to give my charity money last month. I know it sounds bad, but we really needed it to get by. Hopefully this month we will be able to do something.
Sorry this is so spuratic.
I was really hoping to go for a run today, I was so excited. But alas, life got in the way and I had to fill out some paperwork and go fax it, and then I had to make dinner, and now it is cold, and dark and I have resided to blogging instead.
I need to start getting more organized with my posts again.
I swear I am all over the place!
All the paperwork that goes with the job I'm hoping for. And the real kicker is, I havent even technically been accepted yet!
NUTS!
Its a bunch of faxing things, and e-mails, and basically making sure I'm not a creep.
I am so excited to start work but in the mean time my money pot is dwindling FAST. Its got me a bit on edge.
On the upside though, I managed to put $200 into savings this month! Woo-hoo. Now the challenge : to keep it there!
I also was still able to add money to my car Fund, which brings it up to $90. :)
On the downside, I was let go from my last job sooner than I had hoped so I wasn't able to give my charity money last month. I know it sounds bad, but we really needed it to get by. Hopefully this month we will be able to do something.
Sorry this is so spuratic.
I was really hoping to go for a run today, I was so excited. But alas, life got in the way and I had to fill out some paperwork and go fax it, and then I had to make dinner, and now it is cold, and dark and I have resided to blogging instead.
I need to start getting more organized with my posts again.
I swear I am all over the place!
Friday, March 9, 2012
WE'RE HERE WE'RE HERE WE'RE HERE!
So after three days of driving we ended up here at about noon on Tuesday. I have so much more money left over than I had anticipated. It's awesome!
The drive was alright, dad convinced me to take 95 all the way up so we could avoid hitting snow in the mountains and we hit so many ridiculous tolls! I picked on him, because my route would have avoided them all. I swear I didn't realize ho high they had gotten!
We only hit snow once driving through Virginia, and it came out of no where so there was no salt on the roads and our smooth sailing slowed down for a bit.
We made it out though, and now we're here!
I have talked to me new boss, and hopefully will begin work within the next week.
Other than that it has really just been a whole lot of family time. My entire family (mom dad and brothers) haven't been together in years so it was interesting. I'm wiped out from the whole thing.
Hopefully within the next few days things will start to mellow out and get into the norm. I still feel like I'm on one big vacation.
I am going to crash now.
The drive was alright, dad convinced me to take 95 all the way up so we could avoid hitting snow in the mountains and we hit so many ridiculous tolls! I picked on him, because my route would have avoided them all. I swear I didn't realize ho high they had gotten!
We only hit snow once driving through Virginia, and it came out of no where so there was no salt on the roads and our smooth sailing slowed down for a bit.
We made it out though, and now we're here!
I have talked to me new boss, and hopefully will begin work within the next week.
Other than that it has really just been a whole lot of family time. My entire family (mom dad and brothers) haven't been together in years so it was interesting. I'm wiped out from the whole thing.
Hopefully within the next few days things will start to mellow out and get into the norm. I still feel like I'm on one big vacation.
I am going to crash now.
Monday, February 27, 2012
Hello Lent.
Lent is traditionally observed and taken in part by Catholics.
I grew up in a big old Catholic family. I, however, am not. My mom never was either, its only my dads side. I'm like the one cracked egg in a carton full of perfect ones. Whenever religion is brought up at family dinner I just kind of bow my head and concentrate real hard on my food.
This Sunday all the kids are talking about what they've given up for lent - Their Nintendo DS's, etc. one of the smartass little ones said he has decided to "give up giving something up" I coulda smacked him.
My cousin asked me what I decided to give up in which I replied "Uh, Not Catholic. Remember" He then decides to announce it to the world. Annoying. They all know, but no one likes to be reminded of it. Not that most of them attend Mass ever anyways.
I got to thinking these past few days though, maybe I will give something up. Why not? I like a challenge. So I have decided to give up Coke for Lent. I have been trying really hard to cut back on this anyways. So there you have it, I am giving up Coke for Lent, wish me luck.
Are You Giving Anything Up?
I grew up in a big old Catholic family. I, however, am not. My mom never was either, its only my dads side. I'm like the one cracked egg in a carton full of perfect ones. Whenever religion is brought up at family dinner I just kind of bow my head and concentrate real hard on my food.
This Sunday all the kids are talking about what they've given up for lent - Their Nintendo DS's, etc. one of the smartass little ones said he has decided to "give up giving something up" I coulda smacked him.
My cousin asked me what I decided to give up in which I replied "Uh, Not Catholic. Remember" He then decides to announce it to the world. Annoying. They all know, but no one likes to be reminded of it. Not that most of them attend Mass ever anyways.
I got to thinking these past few days though, maybe I will give something up. Why not? I like a challenge. So I have decided to give up Coke for Lent. I have been trying really hard to cut back on this anyways. So there you have it, I am giving up Coke for Lent, wish me luck.
Are You Giving Anything Up?
Yearly Goals Checkin #2.
1. Walk 2.75 miles a week.
This has just not happened yet! I find it incredibly difficult to find the time to do, and when I find time it either rainy, or cold. So I have decided to change the perameters on this one. This challenge was all about fitness and health, so instead of walking I am changing it to exercise. From now on I will Exercise 3 times a week. Hopefully this challenge works a little better.
2. Save $1,000 to donate to a charity of my choice.
So far we have $80 saved up which will go to the charity of my choosing sometime this week. I am so proud of the fact that we managed this.
3. Put $2,000 into an emergency fund!
Total : $0. BUT next month I plan on putting $200 in. It just seemed silly to save for anything other than our move right now. Silly and impracticle.
4. $5.00 a week into a new car fund.
Check! This month we actually put $10 a week in to bump it up a little. So far I am very happy with this challenge and the way that its going. I wish I had started it sooner.
5. Start an IRA.
Not quite. But I start my new job in March, so hopefully after that I will be able to open up a retirement account.
6. Finish writing my book.
I didn't open it once this month. Shame. On. Me.
7. Volunteer once a month in my community.
Okay here's what happened - we planned on volunteering at this one place. Then the woman got sick. Then Auston got sick. Then we were two months away from our move and it all seemed impossible to find time. So this month we failed. But we'll go twice next month to make it up!
8. Read atleast one book a month.
Done! I read The Help. which was awesome, and I suggest everyone reads it.
9. Use coupons for every BIG grocery trip.
I have been using them more! We went out to eat and saved $10 with a coupon! I'm just having the hardest time finding them!
10. Reduce eating out to no more than twice a week!
Lets not talk about this. Safe to say this month - that didn't happen.
11. Call my family atleast once a week.
I have been doing really well with this one.
12. Make and give away atleast 3 blankets.
I am halfway done with my crocheted one! And I just recieved a sewing machine from my Aunt, so I should start sewing some soon!
Sunday, February 26, 2012
My Dearest February, Thou art always the Worst.
Financially Speaking that is.
I don't know what it is about this month, I start off strong, still reeling from bringing in the New Year with a bang. Then two or three weeks go by, valentines day, my Birthday and all of a sudden I've lost track of my spending and my budget for the month is shot to hell.
Maybe you've noticed my lack of spending? Well thats the reason.
Today Marks the first day of our last week as Floridians. These next few days are going to be hecktic and I don't know if I will have time to post. So I figure this is as good a time as any to review my monthly goals.
-Double up on my Car fund : Put $10.00 each week instead of $5.00This thought donned on me the other day, I figure, why not? So instead of putting $20.00 aside, I'll be putting $40.00 aside this will bring my total to $80.00! Woo - High Roller. Its getting there - a little at a time.
We were laggin here in the middle (all of that mindless spending) but assuming all goes well this week we nailed this one! :] And I am that much closer to a new Car!
-Put $80.00 in my Charity Fund
I guess this is my magic number this month! So far I haven't put anything in my charity fund and that's a little upsetting. Now $50 seemed like to little, while $100 seemed like A LOT so I'm sticking to $80 this month.
Almost there! Once I work on tuesday I will be there and we will be writing our check. I am so happy we managed this!
-Comlete 1/2 of my first blanket.
I am slacking! I swear to you I will never crochet another blanket again. it takes WAY TO LONG!
Probably my best accomplishment! I was on a roll! then I slowed down, but I am deffinately about halfway there. I can not wait to see this puppy finished.
Whats next you ask?
March Goals:
-Do some exercise 3 times a week.
My original goal for the year was to walk 3 miles a week. But finding the time to walk was difficult. So I'm changing it to exercise. Any kind. 3 times a week.
-Attempt to put $200 in my emergency Fund.
I haven't put anything in here yet, but if I'm going to get to $2,000 by January, I need to start being more aggresive with it.
-Show Auston the awesomeness that is New Hampshire.
I grew up here. He is moving from Florida for the first time in his life. I just want him to understand the beauty and coolness of where we are going to.
-Donate $90 to a charity of my choosing.
A little more than last month, but I can't skip out on a month, or else meeting my goal for the year will be near impossible.
-Sew 3 baby bibs.
I want to start sweing and selling different items to help pay for our adoption fee's in the upcoming years. Hopefully I will be gitting a machine shortly.
-Write another Chapter in my book.
I have been neglecting my story :( And it is off to such a great start. So this month I want to sit down, and really focus on it.
There you have it!
Agressive, but imprtant to me! <3
I don't know what it is about this month, I start off strong, still reeling from bringing in the New Year with a bang. Then two or three weeks go by, valentines day, my Birthday and all of a sudden I've lost track of my spending and my budget for the month is shot to hell.
Maybe you've noticed my lack of spending? Well thats the reason.
Today Marks the first day of our last week as Floridians. These next few days are going to be hecktic and I don't know if I will have time to post. So I figure this is as good a time as any to review my monthly goals.
-Double up on my Car fund : Put $10.00 each week instead of $5.00This thought donned on me the other day, I figure, why not? So instead of putting $20.00 aside, I'll be putting $40.00 aside this will bring my total to $80.00! Woo - High Roller. Its getting there - a little at a time.
We were laggin here in the middle (all of that mindless spending) but assuming all goes well this week we nailed this one! :] And I am that much closer to a new Car!
-Put $80.00 in my Charity Fund
I guess this is my magic number this month! So far I haven't put anything in my charity fund and that's a little upsetting. Now $50 seemed like to little, while $100 seemed like A LOT so I'm sticking to $80 this month.
Almost there! Once I work on tuesday I will be there and we will be writing our check. I am so happy we managed this!
-Comlete 1/2 of my first blanket.
I am slacking! I swear to you I will never crochet another blanket again. it takes WAY TO LONG!
Probably my best accomplishment! I was on a roll! then I slowed down, but I am deffinately about halfway there. I can not wait to see this puppy finished.
Whats next you ask?
March Goals:
-Do some exercise 3 times a week.
My original goal for the year was to walk 3 miles a week. But finding the time to walk was difficult. So I'm changing it to exercise. Any kind. 3 times a week.
-Attempt to put $200 in my emergency Fund.
I haven't put anything in here yet, but if I'm going to get to $2,000 by January, I need to start being more aggresive with it.
-Show Auston the awesomeness that is New Hampshire.
I grew up here. He is moving from Florida for the first time in his life. I just want him to understand the beauty and coolness of where we are going to.
-Donate $90 to a charity of my choosing.
A little more than last month, but I can't skip out on a month, or else meeting my goal for the year will be near impossible.
-Sew 3 baby bibs.
I want to start sweing and selling different items to help pay for our adoption fee's in the upcoming years. Hopefully I will be gitting a machine shortly.
-Write another Chapter in my book.
I have been neglecting my story :( And it is off to such a great start. So this month I want to sit down, and really focus on it.
There you have it!
Agressive, but imprtant to me! <3
Wednesday, February 22, 2012
Little car and I visited the Jiffy Lube :]
So my little 1994 Honda Civic is once again responsible for transporting Loveyy and I from one home to the next.
Almost two years ago I was packing her up and driving her 1,500 miles down here. I never thought she'd have to make the trip twice.
With the big move just 11 days away we decided to bring her to the car doctor for a check-up.
They filled up all of her fluids, and changes the oil. They also convinced me to flush the radiator. I haven't done this since I got her and I have put a good 100,000 miles on her since momma gave her to me after graduation in 2010.
All of this should have cost me around $130, which was steep but if it needed to be done, then it needed to be done. However, with coupons, and discounts it only came to $70! I'd say I got a good deal! Proud? I am. We also bought some fuel injector and filler her up so hopefully her gas mileage will improve a little.
I LOVE when we take her in and get her tuned up, she always drives so much better afterwards.
Just 11 more days!!
I can not wait.
Almost two years ago I was packing her up and driving her 1,500 miles down here. I never thought she'd have to make the trip twice.
With the big move just 11 days away we decided to bring her to the car doctor for a check-up.
They filled up all of her fluids, and changes the oil. They also convinced me to flush the radiator. I haven't done this since I got her and I have put a good 100,000 miles on her since momma gave her to me after graduation in 2010.
All of this should have cost me around $130, which was steep but if it needed to be done, then it needed to be done. However, with coupons, and discounts it only came to $70! I'd say I got a good deal! Proud? I am. We also bought some fuel injector and filler her up so hopefully her gas mileage will improve a little.
I LOVE when we take her in and get her tuned up, she always drives so much better afterwards.
Just 11 more days!!
I can not wait.
Saturday, February 18, 2012
Yes, I am still here.
Sorry! I've been pretty scarce these past few days! I was working, and now Auston is out of town, so I've been having some time to myslef lately.
I thought about working tonight, then decided I really needed a Me day.
I promise to be back tonight with something financially relevant!!
I thought about working tonight, then decided I really needed a Me day.
I promise to be back tonight with something financially relevant!!
Wednesday, February 15, 2012
Nineteen to go!
In exactly nineteen days I will be packing up the last little bits of my belongings loading my two cats and my dog and Loveyy into my itty bitty 1994 Honda Civic, while my dad gets into the 16 foot budget truck I have reserved and we will all be pulling out of Austons moms drive and heading for our new home in the mountains.
This has all happened rather quickly. When I started planning this trip 6 or 7 months ago it seemed like it was going to take forever! Even as soon as 2 months ago I still could hardly see the end of all the moving, and packing and planning and stress. Now its basically here at my doorstep and I am still a little shocked by how quickly these past 6 months have gone by.
I am amazed by my ability to pull something as large as moving 1,500 miles awway in just a few short months. Auston has never made a transition like this. I however, am all to familiar with starting fresh. I have moved to many times to count! The summer before I started high school I moved from New Hampshire to California. Talk about scary. Maybe the fact that I'm callous to moving now is why I have such trouble trying to talk to him and comfort him. He is after all leaving everything and everyone he has ever known behind, and I am headed towards my mommy. I know its tough.
Here are a few pieces of advice when planning a move such as this:
This has all happened rather quickly. When I started planning this trip 6 or 7 months ago it seemed like it was going to take forever! Even as soon as 2 months ago I still could hardly see the end of all the moving, and packing and planning and stress. Now its basically here at my doorstep and I am still a little shocked by how quickly these past 6 months have gone by.
I am amazed by my ability to pull something as large as moving 1,500 miles awway in just a few short months. Auston has never made a transition like this. I however, am all to familiar with starting fresh. I have moved to many times to count! The summer before I started high school I moved from New Hampshire to California. Talk about scary. Maybe the fact that I'm callous to moving now is why I have such trouble trying to talk to him and comfort him. He is after all leaving everything and everyone he has ever known behind, and I am headed towards my mommy. I know its tough.
Here are a few pieces of advice when planning a move such as this:
- Give yourself Ample amounts of time! Like I just said, these past six months have FLOWN by, and honestly I'd be okay with staying and saving for another month.
- Let those who will be most affected know EARLY on. That way everyone has a chance to say their piece and get used to the idea of not having you around. It will still hurt when the time comes, but atleast everyone feels as though they have put their best foot forward and said what they needed to say. - When Auston's family found out, I thought they would never get over how upset they were. but they did. It just took some time. And yes It is still going to suck, but atleast they were able to give us their input.
- Check, then check again, then RE-CHECK your budget. Make sure every last thing is included. Don't forget food for your trip, or the fact that your car will need a tune up if you're driving. Are animals coming? You might want to factor in fees at hotels for having animals with you. Gas is a big one - for my car its going to cost around $200, but the truck will be around $600, thats $800 in gas alone!
- Downsize. Do you need everything in your house? We got rid of tons and tons of stuff and still require a 16 footer to move it all. The less you move the smaller the truck, the less in gas. Its really a chain reaction. So look at your things and think "is this really worth paying to ship?"
- Ask for help! I don't know how this trip would have been possible without the help we have recieved from friends and family. Some helped us move, some are storing tings for us while we are in a transitioning phase, some are caring for the animlas, and some are housing us during the transition. Help is key! Trust us.
Tuesday, February 14, 2012
Not a Valentines Post.
Maybe I will tell you all about that later.
Today's post is about my birthday!
In exactly one week I will be twenty years old!
Wow, crazy. I am so excited.
Lately I have been thinking about things that I may like for my birthday, however, nothing really comes to mind. In all honesty I have most anything I would want or need. So with the exception of a few things from family members I was stuck, I didn't know what to tell people when they asked me. It's not like I'm a child anymore who wants to have more barbies, and more toys.
A thought donned on me a little while ago though. To be honest I thought it was a spectacular idea. Here is what I truly want. And if you dear readers want to participate, I would be forever greatful.
As most of you know, Auston and I plan to adopt. In roughly a year from now we will begin the process. I am asking the everyone I know donates just $5.00 towards our goal.
This adoption means so much to the two of us, I can hardly explain it in words. My mother grew up in foster care, so I grew up knowing about the dark side of being in the system. If I can just help one child find a loving home, I feel like I will have done something truly spectacular with my life.
Shortly I should be getting a sewing machine, and then I will be coming up with some crafty ideas, I plan to try and sell to raise more towards our goal. I won't go to in depth today because I have already written a rather lengthy post on this subject.
And if you could share this post with your readers, or your friends, I would be so thankful.
Happy Valentines Day
Sorry if this post seem Choppy today.
Today's post is about my birthday!
In exactly one week I will be twenty years old!
Wow, crazy. I am so excited.
Lately I have been thinking about things that I may like for my birthday, however, nothing really comes to mind. In all honesty I have most anything I would want or need. So with the exception of a few things from family members I was stuck, I didn't know what to tell people when they asked me. It's not like I'm a child anymore who wants to have more barbies, and more toys.
A thought donned on me a little while ago though. To be honest I thought it was a spectacular idea. Here is what I truly want. And if you dear readers want to participate, I would be forever greatful.
As most of you know, Auston and I plan to adopt. In roughly a year from now we will begin the process. I am asking the everyone I know donates just $5.00 towards our goal.
This adoption means so much to the two of us, I can hardly explain it in words. My mother grew up in foster care, so I grew up knowing about the dark side of being in the system. If I can just help one child find a loving home, I feel like I will have done something truly spectacular with my life.
Shortly I should be getting a sewing machine, and then I will be coming up with some crafty ideas, I plan to try and sell to raise more towards our goal. I won't go to in depth today because I have already written a rather lengthy post on this subject.
And if you could share this post with your readers, or your friends, I would be so thankful.
Happy Valentines Day
Sorry if this post seem Choppy today.
Monday, February 13, 2012
Hidden Fee's really upset me.
Today is my Valentines Day!
It is also the day I had to take my cat to the vet.
The new Vet we tried today has left me a little miffed. here's my story:
(And yes, it is totally financially relevant)
Ellie has been loosing a lot of hair recently, so we took her in to get looked at. Everyone in the office was so friendly. I was excited to try this new place. Then we went into one of the back exam rooms. The Dr. did some poking and prodding and told us she thinks that it might be Staph. So She was given a steroid shot. The vet was also going to give her a shot of antibiotics, but I just didn't have the money for it. Here's the part where I started to get upset. After telling her that I couldn't afford it she lets me know of a pharmacy who will fill the antibiotic prescription for FREE. Free? So she was just going to let me pay th $45 and not let me know of the alternative?
Every doctor I have ever seen, be it pet or human, has always let me know of a low cost solution if there was one. I have saved a couple hundred dollars in prescriptions this way. So needless to say I was a bit irratated by that. She informed me that since Ellie was past due on her rabies shot she was going to give her one of those as well, not offering to explain any price to me. At the end of the visit I looked at the bill that the super sweer receptionist gave to me and there were things on there that I had thought were just normal in the initial office visit. You know what I'm talking about, right? All that poking and prodding they do when they are first in the room. I was already paying $35 just to have the doctor look at her, now I had to pay $14 for a "special" poke that she did? Something that had nothing to do with ehr condition.
I was furious. I paid and left, wrote a nice review on google, and will not be returning.
I tell you, if I didn't love that cat so darn much...
Now the rest of my day has to be better, because Loveyy and I are going on our Valentines Day Date.
It is also the day I had to take my cat to the vet.
The new Vet we tried today has left me a little miffed. here's my story:
(And yes, it is totally financially relevant)
Ellie has been loosing a lot of hair recently, so we took her in to get looked at. Everyone in the office was so friendly. I was excited to try this new place. Then we went into one of the back exam rooms. The Dr. did some poking and prodding and told us she thinks that it might be Staph. So She was given a steroid shot. The vet was also going to give her a shot of antibiotics, but I just didn't have the money for it. Here's the part where I started to get upset. After telling her that I couldn't afford it she lets me know of a pharmacy who will fill the antibiotic prescription for FREE. Free? So she was just going to let me pay th $45 and not let me know of the alternative?
Every doctor I have ever seen, be it pet or human, has always let me know of a low cost solution if there was one. I have saved a couple hundred dollars in prescriptions this way. So needless to say I was a bit irratated by that. She informed me that since Ellie was past due on her rabies shot she was going to give her one of those as well, not offering to explain any price to me. At the end of the visit I looked at the bill that the super sweer receptionist gave to me and there were things on there that I had thought were just normal in the initial office visit. You know what I'm talking about, right? All that poking and prodding they do when they are first in the room. I was already paying $35 just to have the doctor look at her, now I had to pay $14 for a "special" poke that she did? Something that had nothing to do with ehr condition.
I was furious. I paid and left, wrote a nice review on google, and will not be returning.
I tell you, if I didn't love that cat so darn much...
Now the rest of my day has to be better, because Loveyy and I are going on our Valentines Day Date.
Sunday, February 12, 2012
Look at our new toy!
This came in the mail for us yesterday . . .
Isn't it awesome?
You know the best part? It was free!
Auston donates blood frequently at the Blood Alliance, and his donations gave him enough points to claim this bad boy for his own.
I am so stoked. It records up to 1 hour, and the usb connector is built in, so you dont have to go searching for cords! It also shoots really nice quality.
If I can figure out how, later I will post a video!
Isn't it awesome?
You know the best part? It was free!
Auston donates blood frequently at the Blood Alliance, and his donations gave him enough points to claim this bad boy for his own.
I am so stoked. It records up to 1 hour, and the usb connector is built in, so you dont have to go searching for cords! It also shoots really nice quality.
If I can figure out how, later I will post a video!
Saturday, February 11, 2012
And the winner is ME!
A couple of days ago I posted about bidding on a laptop power cord on E bay.
The starting bid was $.99, and no one else put anything in. So including shipping in handeling, I bought the cord for $7.98. Which ultimately saves me about $50.
I am so excited about this. Loveyy really needs a new cord because he likes to write, and all of his information is on there.
So. I win, I win, I win! Yay!
Also, today I went to a friends baby shower. We all had a blast. I think she was so genuinley appreciative too, which is always nice. I won one of the games there, so I came home with some body was, and a tea candle set.
I bought her a pack of #3 diapers, as well as some rubber ducks, a onesie, and this really neat contraption!
Its a rinse cup. The little half circle in the front is a rubber piece, when you are rinsing your childs hair you put that part against their forheads, and it forms a seal, so that water can't get in their eyes!
I know it seems silly, but I thought it would be neat. So I bought the pink one and stuffed it with littler gifts for her.
I get so excited when I go baby shopping, I can't help it, I want to buy everything for them. I can't wait to have one of my own! Just a couple more years.
The starting bid was $.99, and no one else put anything in. So including shipping in handeling, I bought the cord for $7.98. Which ultimately saves me about $50.
I am so excited about this. Loveyy really needs a new cord because he likes to write, and all of his information is on there.
So. I win, I win, I win! Yay!
Also, today I went to a friends baby shower. We all had a blast. I think she was so genuinley appreciative too, which is always nice. I won one of the games there, so I came home with some body was, and a tea candle set.
I bought her a pack of #3 diapers, as well as some rubber ducks, a onesie, and this really neat contraption!
I know it seems silly, but I thought it would be neat. So I bought the pink one and stuffed it with littler gifts for her.
I get so excited when I go baby shopping, I can't help it, I want to buy everything for them. I can't wait to have one of my own! Just a couple more years.
Friday, February 10, 2012
What an expensive day!
Today was a very productive day in our household!
It was also a rather expensive one!
It all started with a trip to the vet...
I thought today was the day I booked Ellie to see the vet, I guess someone wrote down that it was for NEXT Friday. So basically I woke up early for nothing. Next Friday was not going to work for me either. My cat has been loosing hair rather rapidly these last few months, and I need to get her in! So I called around to a few other places and now she has an appointment for Monday! Which is great news.
Then I had to go and pay my car insurance. Which is just a few pennies shy of $100. The insurance isn't due for four more days, but I fugured what the heck, I have the money today.
Austons prescriptions needed to be picked up, and that one cost me a whopping $24.30. Thanks to an excellent medical plan.
My car registration is due this month, and I need a new ID so I figured, while I'm at it I should just renew those as well. Equaling $84.35 together. Plus a $1 donation to Child Sexual Abuse Prevention.
I stopped by the store to pick up some baby shower gifts as well. I bought a co-worker of mine some diapers, as well as a onsie, and some rubber ducks, and a rubber rhino! Because honestly, every child needs awesome bath toys (at least that's what Auston convinced me of.) This was around $22.00
We bought a few groceries as well, and now we are baking some red velvet cupcakes and relaxing!
Gorcery spending wasn't too bad today, it only cost about $12.00.
NOW, you put all of this together, and I spent a whopping $250 today!
Holy Smokes.
I am actually a little flustered, because I spent the money I had set aside to take Ellie to the vet. Hopefully I make it all back tomorrow. if not, I can always take a little out of savings. I just REALLY don't want to.
I hope this hasn't bored you to much. I promise to be more entertaining next time!
It was also a rather expensive one!
It all started with a trip to the vet...
I thought today was the day I booked Ellie to see the vet, I guess someone wrote down that it was for NEXT Friday. So basically I woke up early for nothing. Next Friday was not going to work for me either. My cat has been loosing hair rather rapidly these last few months, and I need to get her in! So I called around to a few other places and now she has an appointment for Monday! Which is great news.
Then I had to go and pay my car insurance. Which is just a few pennies shy of $100. The insurance isn't due for four more days, but I fugured what the heck, I have the money today.
Austons prescriptions needed to be picked up, and that one cost me a whopping $24.30. Thanks to an excellent medical plan.
My car registration is due this month, and I need a new ID so I figured, while I'm at it I should just renew those as well. Equaling $84.35 together. Plus a $1 donation to Child Sexual Abuse Prevention.
I stopped by the store to pick up some baby shower gifts as well. I bought a co-worker of mine some diapers, as well as a onsie, and some rubber ducks, and a rubber rhino! Because honestly, every child needs awesome bath toys (at least that's what Auston convinced me of.) This was around $22.00
We bought a few groceries as well, and now we are baking some red velvet cupcakes and relaxing!
Gorcery spending wasn't too bad today, it only cost about $12.00.
NOW, you put all of this together, and I spent a whopping $250 today!
Holy Smokes.
I am actually a little flustered, because I spent the money I had set aside to take Ellie to the vet. Hopefully I make it all back tomorrow. if not, I can always take a little out of savings. I just REALLY don't want to.
I hope this hasn't bored you to much. I promise to be more entertaining next time!
Thursday, February 9, 2012
Its Official.
I recieved my tax return yesterday!Which means that I am officially ready to move.
Of course, all the money I have saved up only covers "the moving" part of this new endevor, but I should be recieving plenty in the next couple of weeks to help with the transitional phase as well.
I also recieved another W2 that I wasn't expecting, so now I have to go file some ammended taxes. All that really means is a little more money for me though! Seriously, who's going to be upset about that? Not this girl.
My car insurance is getting paid tomorrow, and that is our last official bill, so my last two paychecks should be going towards fixing up my 1994 civic for the long haul. Poor Baby - she's going to hate me. I'll have to buy her a new bumper sticker.
Not a whole lot has been going on here, just a lot of working. And Planning.
We have been eating out a ton! because we aren't in our own place anymore. I didn't think this would upset me as much as it does, but I am really not happy. I will have to make more of an effort to buy easy meals to cook here. I can't wait to get back into my own place, with my own kitchen.
I also plan on participating in Carla's mini challenge this week. I just have to figure out who to send something special to.
Of course, all the money I have saved up only covers "the moving" part of this new endevor, but I should be recieving plenty in the next couple of weeks to help with the transitional phase as well.
I also recieved another W2 that I wasn't expecting, so now I have to go file some ammended taxes. All that really means is a little more money for me though! Seriously, who's going to be upset about that? Not this girl.
My car insurance is getting paid tomorrow, and that is our last official bill, so my last two paychecks should be going towards fixing up my 1994 civic for the long haul. Poor Baby - she's going to hate me. I'll have to buy her a new bumper sticker.
Not a whole lot has been going on here, just a lot of working. And Planning.
We have been eating out a ton! because we aren't in our own place anymore. I didn't think this would upset me as much as it does, but I am really not happy. I will have to make more of an effort to buy easy meals to cook here. I can't wait to get back into my own place, with my own kitchen.
I also plan on participating in Carla's mini challenge this week. I just have to figure out who to send something special to.
Wednesday, February 8, 2012
Oh E-Bay, don't let me down.
Today I placed my very first bid on E-bay.
Loveyy needs a new laptop charger, as his has officially died. Those things can cost an upwards of 60 bucks! Now I don't have that just floating around right now. So me, being the savvy girl that I am decided to poke around amazon, and E Bay a little. The starting bid on this puppy is only $1.99. I think I can swing it.
Thus far there have been no other takers, so I am hopeful.
Tides can turn rather quickly though, so cross your fingers that this doesn't turn into an all out war!
Honestly, I know I can find one on Amazon for like $15. So If all else fails, thats where I will be headed next. But these days, I'll do anything to save a dollar.
He's not to thrilled at my deciding to bid. He's one of those, I want it, I need it NOW, kind of guys. In the meantime however, he is free to use my laptop. It'll be good for him to learn some patients.
Loveyy needs a new laptop charger, as his has officially died. Those things can cost an upwards of 60 bucks! Now I don't have that just floating around right now. So me, being the savvy girl that I am decided to poke around amazon, and E Bay a little. The starting bid on this puppy is only $1.99. I think I can swing it.
Thus far there have been no other takers, so I am hopeful.
Tides can turn rather quickly though, so cross your fingers that this doesn't turn into an all out war!
Honestly, I know I can find one on Amazon for like $15. So If all else fails, thats where I will be headed next. But these days, I'll do anything to save a dollar.
He's not to thrilled at my deciding to bid. He's one of those, I want it, I need it NOW, kind of guys. In the meantime however, he is free to use my laptop. It'll be good for him to learn some patients.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)