Going Radical! Second Month!

The second month proved to be harder. Unexpected expenses popped up which made sticking to the budget extremely difficult. I seriously debated whether I was going to purchase my Costco card again. I know the prices are cheaper there but that initial membership fee always gets me. During Christmas time, I  used the bonus check they give you when you spend a certain amount, so membership fee was due, ugg $100 grocery money gone. It was a hard toss up whether to renew or not.  I could buy yeast packets for $1.50 at Fry's or an entire package of yeast at Costco which contains well over 40 helpings of yeast for $4.99. The same applies to  other baking products, and cleaning products. We faced another unexpected challenge with a $90 registration fine for missing registration for one of our vehicles, we had it but there was a mix-up with the county and it fell on our responsibility. My vacuum needed to be replaced. Benjamin had repaired that thing at least ten times, he brought it back to life on multiple occasions, she gave all she could but this momma needed something reliable for preschool. The carpet must be clean. So money had to go to buying a new one. I remember talking to my sister Lindsey saying I don't have money for this! She said, "Lesley do you really not have money for this? 10 years ago we both did not have two nickels to rub together is it like that or do you just not want to spend the money?"  It was the latter, I didn't want to buy it not because I didn't have the money but because every dollar spent on something besides my debt brings me down. I only bought a cheap $50 vacuum that hopefully will last the year, fingers crossed arms folded. When every penny is labeled it is much harder when unexpected things come up and when you have very little wiggle room every penny is appreciated. Luckily nothing required us to dip into the emergency fund or use a credit card.

 Lesson learned during February:

1) When you spend too much in one pay cycle it does not mean the next pay cycle needs to be over. Don't get into "its another drop in the bucket" mentality! We blew the budget mine as well buy the new couch, no my friend, my duct tape couch will not be replaced until the student loan is paid off!

2) I said previously how important it is for husband and wife to be on the same page, for the children to know your financial goals. Well I am extending the information to friends and extended family. The more people that know the better you will be able to stick to your goal. they will look out for you on good deals and not tempt you with enticing activities. When I ran my first (and last) marathon I told everyone that I knew that I was going to run it, it kept me accountable because I didn't want to be a drop quitter.

3) This month I really felt the Lord magnify our efforts in trying to keep in a budget, the gas for the cars seemed to last a little bit longer. The more you notice His hand in your life the more you will see how He is there guiding you.

Another month down, we can do this, I am praying for a miracle in April, please join me!