Budget Smudget: Piece of Cake!

Week two of the year! Building a living green savings from no budget!

Long week...for me! I had no idea what was facing me ahead. I think this is the biggest problem in taking a look at our finances. We forget to plan for the obstacles that await us each week, month and year. Need to do that!

Ok, families get out the calender and mark it up! Which months can we see that our living, gas(driving around) and holiday fun will cost us more money?

I suppose that is what the emergency and short term fund is for. May be? But, really some of the money grabbing things, let's face it, do not fall in any of these categories. This is going to be harder than I thought.

I will need all the help I can get. So, I bought the Real Simple Magazine: featured articles on how to save on (nearly) everything. P.S. Magazine cost $4.99! Well, next time..... the Library.

Love the articles. Mostly stuff on things I know how to do, but, I don't because life is moving so fast and we are so focused on meeting the immediate needs, wants and societies flashing neon signs.....buy me now!

Here is one tip I tried. Planned the budget for the month for our family of four. Created recipes for the week. Brought the coupon's. Made the list for the grocery store. And here is what I did for fun for under $10. I bought cake....yes, a big Fred Myers chocolate cake! This was our mid=week treat, entertainment and fun!!!! By the way the boys loved it. What a fun idea for the the mid week meal. AHHHHH Bliss for a day.

So, what can you do if you cannot afford the stuff? Mom, I have a birthday party to go to? Here's the pictures for the swim team....need $17, Hey, we need everyone to bring $5 for the going away present for Fred? And last but not least...... can we get pizza tonight it's Friday?

My solution: Just say .... NO, NO, NO, and NO........" let's just eat Cake"

What can you do to off set those costs? Make a card, sew a gift, car pool? Start to think of ways you can save!

This weeks savings: $50.........................I am on my way to freedom!