My Financial Kingdom

Couponing and the Categories

2011-06-29T11:46:00.003-04:00

I got into couponing about two years ago when I was following Sam's Secrets. I learned how to handle the CVS ads and couple things to get the best deals. I have been an on and off shopper tho. I have a small apartment and not a lot of room for a stockpile of any great size. Since Extreme Couponing tho, I have been learning more and more.. now I find myself making room. Right now there are 10 Powerade's on my kitchen counter. I can see myself getting bins and keeping them under my bed.

I'm not going too crazy yet. I am having fun learning and saving at the same time. This weekend I did my grocery shop and spent $60. I haved $35.00. Not bad, but not great. Either way, I didn't used to use coupons at the grocery store so I would have spent all of that $95.00!

Since I have started reading a few new blogs I'm getting stricter with my budget and what I'm willing to spend. Unfortunately June wasn't as fabulous as I wanted it to be. I may post those numbers or I may just start new with July. I have a multi-tabbed Excel spreadsheet that I'm using to keep track of all my spending and I'm breaking it into categories so that may show up soon. In the meantime, here's what happened in May..

home - rent $875.00
home - electricity $118.00
home - cable $91.59
home - cell phone $180.08
home - Netflix $10.59
home - garbage $0.00
auto - payment $214.17
auto - insurance $77.42
auto - savings/expenses $34.97
health - co.pays $0.00
health - dental $0.00
health - medicine $12.00
DS - daycare $275.00
DS - Expenses $46.00
DS - savings $50.00
Need - Gas $208.00
Need - Groceries $150.00
Need - Tolls $35.00
Variable - Cash $140.00
Variable - Cleaning $25.00
Variable - Entertainment $7.06
Variable - Dine Out $156.25
Variable - Clothing $59.95
Variable - Miscellaneous $58.47
Savings - BAM $65.00
Savings - Xmas $0.00
Savings - Vacation $0.00
Savings - EF $0.00
Savings - Short Term $0.00
Savings - New Home $0.00
Other - Taxes $0.00
Other - Bank Fees $0.00
Other - Gifts/Donation $117.99
Other - CVS/C-Store $84.72

Some items are high and others are low "for me." There are things I take money out of the bank for each paycheck (cash on hand, groceries, gas..) and if there is anything left I put it in savings. My spreadsheet will always reflect the entire amount removed for that category and the amounts will not show for savings. Since I know the numbers are going to be AWFUL for June idk if I even wanna admit to any of it! I guess that's all for today!!

Have an ab fab day peeps!!
xoxo-nklsmom

What a Weekend..

2011-06-20T12:46:00.002-04:00

I saw this adorable pic online today and it made me giggle.. thought I'd share.
I had a pretty decent weekend. I did a lot of purging in the apartment. I figure if I want to get DS and I into a larger place in the next year, it's a good idea to get rid of things that I dont use/want/need. I managed to get rid of quite a few garbage bags full of stuff!

I had family in town so I had dinner and dessert out with them on Saturday evening. It was great to see them even if it was just a short visit. I did spend a bit since we all ended up at Target - but I only got the 2 items that I wanted when we went in. Not great, but not bad either.

Had a nice Father's Day dinner with the fam last night too. I didn't cook at all this weekend!! Woo-hoo for me! DS went up to spend the week with my sister in the Pocono's so it should be a very frugal week. I will live out of the pantry and will only need to grab toilet paper and milk on the way home today.

Hope you all had a great weekend. I'm still gathering the financials since I really want to post what's new in my world.

xoxo-nklsmom

Blogging

2011-06-17T13:55:00.003-04:00

I read about 20 blogs each night when I get in bed. I settle DS and arrange the covers just so and relax with my phone. I don't have a laptop (other than for work) so I have them all keyed into my phone. I don't know why it's so nice and easy for me to read and comment on so many blogs but I can't write on my own.

Things have been interesting in my neck of the woods.

DS' Dad and I have been to court a number of times for lack of CS payments. We went in for a modification and I was granted more money per month - doesn't mean he's paying it tho. I have received less than $850 so far THIS YEAR. It's been tough and tight.

I took out a loan from my employer and so I've been receiving less in my paychecks. This will be paid off completely in August. September should be a good month for me.

My boss has decided to add a quarterly bonus so I have the opportunity to make extra money in either Aug or Sept as well.

With so many things going on in my life I feel like my work is slacking and that can't continue. I have finally noticed that this is happening and so I have to take responsibility for fixing it.

I would like to move my blog since I think people I don't want reading/knowing about it are lurking. I dont know how to do that while maintaining my readers.. any ideas or hints??

Thanks all! :)
xoxo-nklsmom

Help Expense

2011-01-05T10:48:00.001-05:00

I have decided to track my funds this month. I have been tracking the last few months using my bank account and just separating it all on paper later on. This month I found Help Expense on the android market. Its free and ridiculously easy! You make your own categories and just put the dollar amount in and you're done. It's breaks everything down in charts/graphs/text. I absolutely love it.
This will help keep me more honest as well. I tend to "forget" to track when I use cash and let it all slide. I think I'm going to be surprised by how much I really spend a month.
I'm beginning to look forward to tax time! I had to borrow from my pt employer and have been signing my checks over to return the money. It's causing me to feel really strapped. Once I have my return things will be back to normal financially and I'll feel better all around.
xoxox-nklsmom

Boy it's been a while!

2010-11-04T12:36:00.002-04:00

It seems I can't win on the job front. I was let go from Yellow Brick due to a new FTC ruling that came down effecting debt settlement companies. Though I was extremely sad to leave, I left on a positive note and still love everyone there. I was out of work until early September when I got an amazing opportunity with a popular franchised company. I am so happy here and can only pray that this one will last. On the day I started an old boss of mine called and asked if I could pick up some work for him so I'm now doing double duty. When my son is with his dad I work 20 hours for him on the weekend. So I'm officially working 160 hours a month. Though I am ridiculously tired most of the time, I can't complain about the compensation.
DS "found out" about Santa and so this year we've had to make some Xmas adjustments. He realized I pay for the gifts and refused to make a Christmas list because "we just don't have that kind of money!" I don't know how he knows what we do or don't have. I have raised him with a healthy respect for money (so much so that he has around $40 saved and refuses to use it.. I'm so happy I'm raising a saver)but never discussed our financial picture with him. It's not his business. I sat him down and explained that Xmas is a time for wishing and you just have to see if someone can make them come true. So now I have a list.. $500 worth to be exact. This year, and this year only, I want him to have everything on his list under the tree. I can make that happen and I couldn't be happier about it. I will not be putting myself in debt to do it and will still be able to save. I will not let him see this as a "rule" but as a special exception since it's the first holiday where he "knows." He was SO not ready to know the truth and mourned like he lost a loved one. I can't wait to see his face Xmas morning!!
I will be doing more posting now that things have calmed down..
and one of these days I'll update the finances so I can get some advice.
Missed you all!!!
xoxo-nklsmom

Back To School

2010-07-13T12:04:00.001-04:00

I have budgeted $100.00 for back to school supplies. I am praying that this will also include new shoes, but I will deal with clothes later. I read on Sams Secrets that Staples was having a huge sale on supplies and I headed over last night. DS was so excited he wanted to buy the place out. I explained that we were trying to stick to our budget so we'll buy as things go on sale. We did pretty good.

Highlighters $2.00

Scissors $.99

Eraser tops $2.00

Pencils (2) $1.98

Dry Erase Markers $4.49 (because it was the brand his grandma has lol)

Pencil Box $.99

Gluestix $.99

We spent a grand total of $14.27 and we still have a bunch left on the list. Of course the items that are left are some of the things that drive me crazy! Antibacterial wipes, tissues, ziploc bags, $4.50 for a magazine subscription, headphones.. I don't remember ever having to buy most of the 'extras' for my classroom. Tissues were a given but the other cleaning supplies? Never. And I live in a community that can well afford to stock the classrooms with supplies. I know I shouldn't complain because the school is amazing and DS gets one of the best educations in the country - but hello! I'm a single mom who doesn't make a million. It's rough to have to purchase so many things that I know are not directly related to my sons learning. Yet another year I'll suck it up and get 'er done :) Will report in again soon!

xoxo-nklsmom

the cost of cash!

2010-07-09T17:12:00.003-04:00

Last months numbers were pretty darn amazing if I do say so myself.
I was monitoring my financial picture based on my bank statements.
Here we go:

Tolls $19.00/$28.00
Gas $140.00 / $140.00
Groceries $140.00 / $52.01
Meds $39.00 / $17.60
Travel $200.00 / $214.78

Then there was the cash:
Budgeted $50.00 for extras - spent ?? $733.76

This month I'm keeping track of receipts and writing everything down. I'm not being compulsive because I read an article the other day that said when people write down everything they buy, they actually spend more than they normally would. So far my spending is way down for this month. I have a more lax budget because I'll be on vacation from July 22- July 31 in California and Oregon. Can't wait..

Either way the cash situation needs to be fixed.. big time!
xoxo-nklsmom

Electric Bills.. I just don't "get" them

2010-06-28T22:23:00.002-04:00

I'm on budget billing with Peco. When I lost my job all those months ago I got behind and started budgeting as well as paying a deferred agreement. The issue?? I don't understand electric billing. So, I'm gonna post this stuff and see if any of you have any idea what the heck it means..
PS - I'm sorry I've been MIA. Lots going on around here but little financially. I have been calculating everything and am planning on posting this weekend about June so you'll see what I mean!

Here goes:

Budget Billing
Total Current Charges $88.77 (obvious)
Current Budget Billing Amount $98.00 (another duh)
Current Budget Balance -9.23 (the difference - got this too)
Last months budget balance $58.83
Total Budget amount $49.60 (??)

Here's where I get really confused:
Current Month: Avg Daily Use 18.1/Avg Daily Temp 75
Last Month: Avg Daily Use 14.1/Avg Daily Temp 62
Last Year: Avg Daily Use 11.6/Avg Daily Temp 68

And...
Avg kWh per month 750
Total Annual kWh Use 9011

What the heck does all this mean?? How do you know so you can control your bill?? I despise PECO because I just never have a clue. I have 5 months left on my deferment and then I'm done - easy to figure out. The rest?? Geez.. ugh.

Any hints would be greatly appreciated :-)
xoxo-nklsmom

"Eclipse" can also mean 'small splurge'

2010-06-16T00:48:00.003-04:00

I had a bit of a splurge today. I rarely get together with both my baby sisters at once anymore. With the middle one getting married and the youngest just beginning to figure out her life, there's rarely time for sisterly bonding. We spent the weekend together a few weeks ago and aside from the babiest and I hissing at each other once, it was a great time. We rattled on about the wedding and life and dresses. My sisters mother is getting married in October - one month before my sis - and we all gabbed about all things "white and lacy." Anyway, I got online today and ordered 3 tix to the opening night of Eclipse. Darnit, I don't care that I'm 32 and I'm gonna be mobbed by a boatload of insane teenaged nuts.. I will use my "toss-my-hair-back-I'm-awesome-and-older-and-wiser" tone and get in where the gettin' is good. I plan to arrive a million hours early with a book and find the best seat in the house. I will shove my neighbors elbow off the rest and enjoy my movie-going experience with the siblings and love every minute of it.
Tonight I became addicted to yet another tv show. Since I got the cable back I have been doing my best to get involved in as little tv as possible. Life was nicer when I wasn't planning my life around shows. But - I have a few weaknesses. I have found that I love Ghost Whisperer- and I love the fact that it fills my tear quotient for the day each time I watch it. I haven't followed it, I probably haven't seen one new episode - but some channel called 'Ion' has reruns (and I mean like 4 in a row) on a few nights a week and I love it. I have also taken a HUGE liking to Cake Boss. Living in PA, I have decided to trek into Hoboken at some point soon and visit the shop. SO excited. Drop Dead Diva is the best - SO loving it. I caught up on the first season on-demand and I'm hooked. And now my newest obsession. Pretty Little Liars. It's strange that the moms on the show are all the coolest from my hay-day. One from Melrose Place. One from the movie North Shore. One from Charmed. It's hilarious to me that my generation is now "the Mom." When did this happen?? I know I'm a mom and my son is freakin' EIGHT now.. and "3 days from being a third grader!" as he keeps pointing out, but hey.. I'm still young and hip and awesome. Sheez.. ok so the fact that I used the word hip may have aged me a bit, but whose paying attention??
I'm also looking forward to the new Valerie Bertinelli show on TVLand tomorrow night. Sad but true. I'm gaining weight by the day, no boyfriend in sight, so guess what?! I'm gonna enjoy my tv. I have an appt to get blood work done as I think my thyroid meds might need to be adjusted. I've gained a lot in a short period of time and it's not making much sense. I don't eat great, but I dont eat enough to pack on pounds so fast.
Anyway, I can't sleep so I'm gonna get in bed and watch some Reba on DVD and thank God I can work from home tomorrow in my pjs. Just hope my back stops acting up - since Ohio I'm so stiff it's awful.
Good night and happy TV to you all :)
xoxo-nklsmom

ps. Sorry this is so random!

Ohio was FUN!

2010-06-15T12:09:00.002-04:00

DS and I headed out on our first road trip on our own. We spent 10 hours getting to Columbus and 8 hours getting home. On the way there DS was a bit queasy and I wanted to stop and stretch my legs. On the way home I was just ready to get done! It was a beautiful drive - PA to OH is like Ireland I think. So green and open and gorgeous. The rest stops were all clean and shiny and nice. After taking road trips in CA - AZ - NV all my childhood I couldn't believe how well maintained they all were. I don't have the whole budget laid out yet but I know that I budgeted $200 and spent $214.78. So I went over but not by much. The amusing part is that I went over because I went a bit crazy! I have never taken a road trip that long or without another adult. I bought first aid kits, alcohol, peroxide, batteries, blankets, water.. well you get the drift. I would have stayed under if I hadn't done all that! :) In any event it was a great time, DS got to meet a ton of family he didn't even know he had and I watched my great-grandparents dance at my cousins wedding. Too sweet for words.
xoxo-nklsmom

A Nine Cent Lunch!

2010-06-08T14:23:00.003-04:00

Just wanted to call your attention to one of my favorite blog reads. Today she told us how to get free dessert.. and since I was on the lookout for a hot pocket, I managed to grab it all at once for $.09

Here's how I did it..

Diet Coke $1.50 (sale)
Hot Pocket $3.59
(3) Skinny Cow Desserts $3.00

-3.00 Skinny Cow Coupons
Total = $5.09
-$5 EB = $.09

Woo-hoo!
Have a great Tuesday..
xoxo-nklsmom

Junes Budget

2010-06-02T11:18:00.001-04:00

June is going to be a very tight month. My cousin is getting married in 2 weeks so I have a road-trip to Ohio planned. I have the most amazing planner for the trip too! I made it myself but that’s not unusual. Miss-List-Maker has it going on baby! I made all kinds of games for DS as well. You would all laugh at me I’m sure but I have all my lists broken down, the directions, phone numbers, itemized list of “first aid” items, etc. The only thing I have left to buy is a small cooler so we don’t have to stop for meals. Anyway, as it’s a 16 hour drive round trip, it’s going to be a lot of gas money! I will be losing one day of work as well, so it’s going to be a really expensive wedding. At least the courtesy check at Midas is free!

The super-expensive, ridiculously unfair $500 Sprint bill is due by the 10th as well. Ouch!

When I first did June’s budget I was left with a negative $902. So far I’ve managed to bring that up to -472. The budget really doesn’t have anymore “shaving” room but it does feel more manageable.
The budget is really strict but I have started working from home so my expenses has downsized. I’m hopeful I can make this work. Of course it’s going to be like this more and more until the end of the year since I have 4 weddings, 3 of which are out of the state! Then I have my annual CA trip for Thanksgiving and then Xmas. Grr..

Ok so the numbers are:

Tolls = $2.60 / 28.00
Cash = $18.18 / 50.00
Gas = $20 / 140.00
Groceries = $11.26 / 140.00
Meds = $9.60 / 25.00
“drs” = $0 / 14.00

I have my physical this month ($10 co-pay) and DS has his 8 year well check and I have forms that she has to fill out ($4.00) so both will end up costing me.
Well, there it is. Another month of lack-luster finances.. blah!
xoxo-nklsmom

Alice in Wonderland $1.00!!

2010-06-02T10:30:00.002-04:00

Over the weekend I did a few deals at CVS. I did the Suave deal x2, the Pantene deal, and the Ban deodorant. I ended up spending $3.14 OOP and receiving $9 EBs back. I was sad though because I wanted to include the Alice in Wonderland dvd in my purchase but it wasn't available yet. Just picked it up tho and what did I pay?? Under $1.00 - and I got $3 EBs back :-)
I'm loving this again!

$19.99
-$10.00 Disney Coupon
-$9 EB
.99 OOP

That was the coolest deal I've ever done! DS is gonna be excited when he gets home tonight and sees this sitting on the counter :)
Happy Wednesday
xoxo-nklsmom

CVS Savings.. and a FREE BURGER!

2010-05-27T10:45:00.003-04:00

It's not the best I've ever done, but considering I went so many times in a row I shouldn't complain!

Monday:

(3) m&m's = $1.44
(2) Thermacare = $11.98
Pepsi = $.99
Nivea lip care = $2.99 *this brought me to $15

-$1.00 Nivea coupon
(I couldn't print the $3.00 Thermacare coupon :()

= ~$16.00 OOP
RCVD $10.00 EB

Wednesday:

Scott TP $6.98
Gillette Body Wash/Shampoo $4.00
Pringles $1.50

= ~$13.00
-$1.00 Scott coupon
-$10.00 EB

=$2.00 OOP
RCVD $4.00 EB

Again - found out today is field day at school and we needed a few things..

Banana Boat Sunscreen = $6.99
(2) Gatorade $3.98

= ~$11.00
-$1.00 Banana Boat coupon
-$1.99 Gatorade BOGO
-$4.00 EB

=$4.00 OOP

Could've done better I think if I'd had more time to think it all out. I just found out about the sunscreen and gatorade when I picked DS up from school so I had about 10 minutes to plan that one out.

I got an email this morning saying that we're not getting coupon inserts this week in the paper. How sad is that?? Grr...

xoxo-nklsmom

PS - FYI: WENDYS HAS THE SAME DEAL AS CHIC FIL A!
SAVE YOUR RECEIPT IF YOU GO TO WENDYS. VISIT TALKTOWENDYS.COM AND FILL OUT A SHORT SURVEY TO EARN A FREE BURGER!!

Seriously.. where's the TP??

2010-05-25T21:41:00.001-04:00

How did I go grocery shopping and CVS shopping this weekend and just run out of toilet paper?? Sometimes it's the little things that make you go "hmmmmm..."
Anyone know of any sales this week??
hahah.. this is just too funny!
xoxo-nklsmom

Just News..

2010-05-25T13:07:00.003-04:00

Had my mom up for the weekend. She doesn't have a car so it's a 3 hour total trek each time. I picked her up last week and took her home Saturday after DS' baseball game. It was awful. I can't stand being in the car for that long. The only bonus is that I did end up getting DS a portable DVD player so I was able to listen to a movie on the drive back home. We "rented" The Spy Next Door when we got home and cuddled up on the couch for the night. It was nice and relaxing. Sunday I used the free pedicure I got from my sister for Xmas. Talk about never finding time for yourself! :)
I made a few trips to CVS. I don't have my receipts so I can't list my entire experience but I spent $20 OOP (I had no EB's to start) and came out with $17 EB so I think I did pretty good. I did the Nivea deal, the Gillette deal (anyone know if there are printable coupons for that deal anywhere?), the Thermacare deal, etc. I came out with a ton of stuff and all for about $4.00 :-)
My papers didn't have the Red Plum coupons in them this Sunday. Talk about disappointing! I get a Philly Inquirer and an Intelligencer so I can read both papers but still have two sets of coupons.. SO SAD.
I hooked up my printer so I can officially start printing online coupons again. I finally feel like a real frugal shopper again.
Ok.. guess that's all for now..
xoxo-nklsmom

Direct Deposit ~ Sux Sometimes..

2010-05-21T14:06:00.002-04:00

I have direct deposit and get paid every two weeks. This is the second time this month (yes I know there have only been two pay periods this month) that it didn't go through and we were issued paper checks. Obviously this isn't a big deal since we're paid on the date we're supposed to be paid. The problem comes in when I have things that auto-pay and the funds aren't available. I woke up this morning and was overdrawn by $27 and change. This is NOT cool. I haven't been overdrawn in forever and go out of my way to make sure it doesn't happen. I have to just suck it up and deal but still.. I had to b*tch somewhere!
I'm nearly done figuring out my budget - down to a $0 balance. I'm afraid to try it but it should be interesting! I read this and took alot of the advice mentioned. Then I did some research on other methods and have blended them all to create my own unique "kingdomly" system! :-)
I would love to be able to have it up for your comments and suggestions in the next few days but I think it may have to wait for my finances to iron out. I still owe Sprint over $500 and have to figure out how to get that paid in the next few weeks.
Had the car bills come up as well as the registration fees for DS' summer camp. I am anxiously awaiting a time that I don't have extra funds going out each month.
I have 4 weddings before the end of the year and 3 of them involve major travel. 2 road trips and one plane trip.. Talk about costly!
That's all for now folks..

Any frugal fun planned for your weekend???
xoxo-nklsmom

Free Chick-Fil-A Chicken Sandwich

2010-05-19T10:41:00.002-04:00

Ok so you have to purchase something first.. but it could be anything.
Keep a-hold of your receipt and hit your computer when you get home! If you go to www.mychickfilavisit.com and fill out a short survey about your experience, they will issue you a validation code. If you put that code on your receipt and take it back to a chick-fil-a you will be rewarded with a free chicken sandwich.

Puff the Magic Salt Shaker..

2010-05-18T21:28:00.004-04:00

I have been quiet about a pretty big thing in my life for about a week now. I had my last cigarette 9 days ago. I haven't had a single craving and I smell fabulous! :) The only problem? Chocolate and salt have been my friends - we're talkin' "please call me every 5 minutes" best friends! I have to find a way to begin to get active and stick with it. I had been planning on starting a walking regime this week but it's done nothing but rain.
My car was in the shop yesterday at 915am and I just picked it up today. It's been crazy and hectic and so.. there are my "excuses" for not walking. I am hoping that the weather clears up sometime soon so that I can really get started. I find that I get very hungry (in my head I'm sure) around the times that I used to smoke. I'm not having a problem in the evenings which is strange. I used to smoke and then watch tv before bed with a snack. Now I don't need the snack but I eat all day.
Finances are tighter than tight until payday on Friday. Like, I have toll money and that's it tight.. Guess that's the only real news for tonight.
Have a great night folks!
xoxo-nklsmom

ps.. if you've quit smoking - any hints on staying away from "my friends?"

Babies, Baseball, Bridal Showers..

2010-05-17T12:23:00.002-04:00

My baby boy is officially 8 years old! He was with his dad this weekend but we all got together on Saturday (his actual bday) at his baseball game. He looks older. He told me I can't tell him he's 'cute' anymore, it has to be 'handsome.' lol.. Man time flies! I remember his sweet little baby smell and now his feet stink! hah..
Anyway, my weekend was pretty productive.
Friday night I de-cluttered.. I got rid of a garbage bag full of papers that I haven't needed in years. My filing cabinet breathed a sigh of relieve since it can finally be completely closed!
Saturday morning I overslept, got up at 845am and hurried through the morning routine. Stopped by CVS for detergent and dropped my clothes at the laundromat. Ran home, cleaned the kitchen and bathroom, went back and moved the the clothes to the dryer, back home to dust the living room and my bedroom. Picked up the clothes, folded and put them away. Made a low fat coffee cake for my stepmoms visit and then jumped in the shower. Was finished with everything by noon. Woo-hoo.. The coffee cake came out funny. I have an extremely old stove that leans ever-so-slightly and I'm thinking that is what caused the 'funnyness.'
I received my awesome gift from the UK! Wife, mother and other sent me a lovely notebook and muffin token holder.. I got so excited - even more so since I've never received anything from another country before!
My stepmom, sister and I started plotting out my other sisters Bridal shower. I love doing that kind of stuff. My baby sister (the maid of honor) is a chronic procrastinator who hates to organize. This goes against the grain for me, who makes lists of lists, and I've had a heck of a time not flipping out over the length of time we've put this off! So, headway has been made. My sisters supposed best friend cut out of the wedding so we're down to just the 3 of us now. It's going to get a tad more expensive now.. Hopefully I've planned well enough.
Guess that's all - other than my car being back in the shop that is!
Happy Monday all..
xoxo-nklsmom

Just Really Thought This Was SOOO Me..

2010-05-14T16:05:00.000-04:00

God, Grant me ...courage to change the things I can

2010-05-14T09:33:00.002-04:00

I went to Target last night.. and boy were my boundaries tested. Maybe I should start this back a little further than that.

*dreamy wispy fairy music plays and the scene swirls out of focus*

I keep my finances listed neatly in a 3 subject medium sized notebook. This notebook fits neatly inside my gigantic purse and is with me AT ALL TIMES. I don't like to be separated from my finances. One section is dedicated to what bills are due and when - categorized weekly. The second section is my checkbook register because I still like to know to the penny whats up. I get on my banking website every morning and make sure it all balances out. (Laugh if you want but I found a $100 error - in my favor - yesterday) The third section is for lists - DS' summer camp activities, groceries, things to do today, this week, month, annual goals.

I also have begun using the envelope system. I have one for gas, groceries, cash, medicine, and misc. This seems to be working out really well for me. I just ran out of funds last night and will "refill" tonight after work!

*hear the dreamy wispy music again and the swirly scene becomes clear again*

Now picture me (wow look how hot I am! ;)) walking into Target last night to get DS' portable DVD player. I found a nice model for $79.00 and had my $25 gift card from my boss for Mothers Day. I am weak at Target, I purchase like there's no tomorrow at Target.. Anyway, my mother is sending me the money to cover this purchase for DS' birthday gift but I still wanted to watch the pennies. I walked in determined I would do no more than this ONE purchase. I had no need for anything else anyway. Stay strong Staci!!
Ok, so I immediately come across the card aisle. Shoot.. Whenever I see the card aisle I automatically think "whats today?" Ok are there any birthdays coming up? I'm a huge card sender. My great grandmother kept up with the entire families birthdays (my extended family is like 50 something) but I just stick with my immediate, close extended, and friends. My best friend from HS (DS' godfather) and my brothers birthdays are within the next 2 weeks. I found adorable cards for .99 each. Sadly I should have gotten a card for my cousins wedding next weekend but I forgot. I try to get my "cheaper" cards at Target because CVS' are generic and not very pretty. Targets are beautiful and cheerful.

In the store for 10 minutes = $1.98 spent

Now I stroll through the paper items. I'm addicted to office supplies. I readily admit this. My sisters and I have to stay away from Staples at all costs because we could stay in there all day. We're like teenagers at the mall in Staples, but I digress.. I wander toward the pens and paper and journaling books. I see an adorable book that I could use for my bills! So cute, so sturdy. My book is getting old and messy and rough around the edges. This is marvelous - what a great find.. and only $4.98!

In the store for 15 minutes = $1.98 + $4.98 = $6.96

Uh-oh! What a cute calendar! I buy pocket calendars at CVS every two years. I LOVE them. They have just enough space to write my daily appts and I never lose them. I have them lined up in my drawer - almost 10 years worth now. I keep them because I note anything that goes on with DS' dad - as well as to just remember when I did what.. annual gyn appts, oil changes, birthday parties, etc. I throw sticky notes in with important things as well - addresses, phone numbers, ideas, etc. But this calendar was SO cute! Why not? I have been using my current calendar since January 2009! It's close enough to fully used. I can spend another $2.99..

In the store 20 minutes = $6.96 + $2.99 = $9.95

Then I come across a black accordian file folder. It looked just like an organizer. It was book like with a wrap around snap and had pink flowers on it! I could use it as my "envelope!!!" I could label each section and have space for coupons and notes. On clearance $5.00!!

In store 22 minutes = $9.95 + $5.00 = $14.95

Then I realize that I'm dawdling and I'm a Target addict and I should RUN to the electronics section right away and get the DVD player. As I'm speed-walking through toys I realize that I just don't NEED a new notebook. The one I have is still FULL of blank paper. It would be a waste not to use the rest of it. I put the notebook down on top of a spongebob puzzle. (Not good to put items back willy nilly but I was having an epiphany!)

I hit the bedspreads and had the same thought about my calendar. I LIKE my current calendar.. It's all filled out through the end of the year. Why waste time filling out another one before this one is complete?? Bye-Bye calendar!!

I tossed the file folder down too.. Why waste $5.00 on something that I didn't need? Sure it was pretty, but I could grab DS' markers and decorate the envelopes I already had - envelopes that were working just fine, thank you very much.

So, I grabbed the DVD player and the 2 cards and high-tailed it right on out of there. Holding yourself accountable may be priceless, but last night it saved me $12.97!

Happy Weekend Folks!
xoxo-nklsmom

*have YOU had an epiphany??*

Car Troubles..

2010-05-13T10:53:00.002-04:00

My stupid stupid car! I got the oil changed a few weekends ago and was told that my battery was drained. I hadn't had a problem so I put it off for another time. A week later the light came on in the car and it started jerking when I was driving.. called and told my guys that I needed them to replace the battery. Monday they replaced it. Still have the light and the jerking! Time and energy later we find that my guys don't "do" electrical and I have to take it to the dealer. Umm.. no thanks. They charge over $100 for a diagnostic test and they don't take that off if I allow them to fix the problem. A friend at work recommended her guy and I'm dropping it off to him Monday.
I am taking a major road trip (8 hours) to Ohio next month and all these issues need to be taken care of. I have already put together my travel planner (yea I'm anal retentive and a bit nuts, but so what?!) and am making a work book for DS for the trip. I have made like 10 pages of "I saw something BLUE" and "before we started the car I saw".. and a word search, an I Spy page, a journaling page, etc. I like to be Uber-prepared so I make lists of items to pack, a checklist for packing the car, items to buy (this time I need a cooler and a portable dvd player), etc. All nice and neatly organized in a folder.
On a quasi-happy note, I was talking to my bestest last night and we started talking about taking a cruise. There's a Meditarranian cruise that starts in Rome that starts at $599. We're starting to save for this now and will re-group in December to see how much we have. Looks like $599 +taxes and fees (~250??) +$700 (flight to Rome) +$30 luggage fees, +$150 passport (?) +$1000 travel funds... so it'll take a while but it would SO be worth it! :-)
That's about all for now folks.
xoxo-nklsmom

Minimalist.. but Homey!

2010-05-11T12:27:00.002-04:00

I have decided that I have had it with the way I live. I have clutter all over me and I need to get rid of it. This became apparent when I realized that I was buying yet another organizer for my mail/bills. I have a filing box, an organizer on my desk, another "box" on my desk and yet another in the kitchen. The papers just shuffle from one place to another without ever leaving! I decided I need to get rid of all the clutter but I have one problem. See that picture?? I DO NOT want to live in minimalism! I hate the look.. I want the 40-50 picture frames of family and friends scattering my walls. I want the books shelves overflowing with books by my favorite author that I will re-read a few times a year. I want a "home" not a place where I exist. I want people to come in and cuddle up on my couch, put their feet up on the coffee table, have a cup of tea with a throw over their lap! It's going to be a hard habit to get into but I think I need to adopt a bit of the minimalist attitude, so..

I agree to:
1. go through my pictures and get rid of anything that isn't necessary to completing my sons scrapbooks

2. get rid of all paperwork that I don't need - ie: the electric bill from when I first moved into my apt 5 yrs ago, the cell bill from my first phone 10 years ago, etc.

3. go through all kitchen cabinets and remove items that haven't been used since I moved in

4. go through the bedroom closets and remove items that haven't been worn since George Michael was popular

5. go through my sons closet and get rid of anything that he hasn't used since he thought the Wiggles were the best in show.

6. go through my bookshelves and take all books that I wont re-read to the used bookshop

7. Remember to always think "do I need this?" before I make a purchase!

Any suggestions?? Good websites??

The weekend was great - DS' birthday party was a huge hit.. Happy Tymes is an interesting place to visit but geez can a gaggle of 8 year old boys get loud! Other than that - nothing new! :)

Enjoy your Tuesday..
xoxo-nklsmom

Couple Things..

2010-05-07T09:34:00.007-04:00

I was talking to my dad last night (53 year old conservative, ex-marine) about money. I have received a significant hike in my income and wanted some advice on how to handle the funds. Do I make extra car payments?

current payment $214.17 + $85.83 'extra' = $300 a month

According to him, since I only have 22 months left and doing the above would only shave about 6 months off the loan, he wasn't really "for" this. So I suggested adding the $85.83 to my auto savings account so I could hit my goal faster. He looked at me like I was an unwelcome alien sitting next to him. "Why would you have an auto savings account?" he asked with a sneer. "Well, I have goals for certain things and saving separately keeps them more visible and clear. I have an EF, a vacation fund, etc."

"All you need is an EF." Was his reply.

Hmmm.. so is it just us zealot PF bloggers who feel the need for separate savings accounts? Is it something the older schools cant understand? My father is VERY financially sound, invests, has a college fund going for DS, etc. He knows money. But I feel that he's wrong. Maybe when you bring in the amount of money that he and his wife do, savings become something that you throw money into - but don't have an actual purpose for? If something happens or you want to vacation, you just pull the 'generic' savings and deal with it.
I see the pros and cons of both saving methods but absolutely believe that my way is the correct way for me.

How do you save??

On another note. I won a cd online teaching kids about money through a rapping bunny rabbit. This of course completely back fired on me. DS now thinks that we can't spend a dime on anything or we'll lose our home. I've had to explain the entire financial system to my almost 8 year old because he became so hysterical one night about not having a home. I told him we're fine. We've lived in our home for 5 years and are NOT going to be kicked out. I told him about checking and savings accounts. I explained how many savings accounts I have and what they're for. We made a spreadsheet for all the household bills and what he feels these items cost. (Oddly, he thinks I pay $500 for rent, but $600 for electric..) Once we completed this, I told him that according to him I had to make X dollars a month to cover our expenses, but anything extra would go to savings. DS now likes to share with EVERYONE "My mom has 6 savings accounts."
He told my stepmom (my fathers current wife) who looked at me like that same unwelcome alien and asked "Why would you have 6 savings accounts?"
Before I could reply DS piped in with "cause my mom is really smart!" Ha.. so there!
:-) Of course, I have since had a discussion with DS about finances being something that not everyone is comfortable talking about and that he needs to take more care with "how" he shares. I want him to realize that it's a private matter, but one that SHOULD be discussed in a general way with people. Money needs to come out of the closet, it needs a spotlight sometimes. I want DS to grow up to be responsible and knowledgable - and to get there he needs information, from everyone.

How much do your kids know about money?

xoxo-nklsmom

This may sound Ri-Di-Cu-Lous!

2010-05-05T22:56:00.008-04:00

Do you ever think about your life? Not as in day to day, but in general - aka the Grand Scheme. I think about it alot. I often wonder why my life isn't like tv. I have a nice little apartment - like these folks..

But my home doesn't resemble theirs at all. It's always neat but rarely clean since I'm in a stage of denial about dust. (just kidding, I do it - just hate it!) Anyway, it doesn't "feel" as homey as the above photo. While I know realistically its a sound stage, to my tv mind its adorable and I wish I lived there.

I come home from work, like these folks..

I drop it all and throw on sweats. They don't do that! They look totally adorable in their work and play attire and they're make up is flawless - at all times! Once again I know it's wardrobe and make up but darn it.. why I can't I look like that all the time?

Then there's the "hanging out"...

The parenting..

and my favorite of all??

Bedtime! I can tell you that when I settle in for the night, I don't look anywhere near as cuddly as they do!!

So, why don't I become a cast member of one of these shows? Forever live inside my own little "boob tube" Universe? Because if I did I wouldn't have the most amazing thing I've ever known in my life..

and I made that.. "from scratch!" ;)
xoxo-nklsmom

Spending..

2010-05-05T11:12:00.002-04:00

So far this month I have spent $141.05
It's only the 5th of the month! Granted some of that was for my oil change, but only SOME. A greater chunk was gas. I took myself out for a drink Saturday night and accidentally withdrew $40 instead of $20 from the machine. I was charged $2.00 from the atm and $2.50 from my bank. Stupid way to lose $4.50. I have learned my lesson there. I haven't had a single no spend day yet. I am not blaming anyone but me and will figure out a way to "get back to good."
Happy Cinco De Mayo folks!
xoxo-nklsmom

Tipping.. Do I have to??

2010-05-04T13:53:00.000-04:00

I have been trying to figure out the hows of tipping lately and I've realized one thing. There's just no right answer. My biggest dilemma is pizza. This is something that is ordered once or twice a month at my house. Usually around $15 a pop. The issue I have is that my "hut" of choice adds in a delivery charge. Pre-Delivery Charge I tipped around 15% and now? $1.00. I'm tired of places tacking fees on and then expecting me to 'eat' them. (figuratively of course!)
So.. how do you tip?? Especially for deliveries??
xoxo-nklsmom

Ta-Blah!

2010-05-04T10:28:00.001-04:00

Had to take the car in for service, had to drive all over creation. The funds have been depleted. I am thinking the second job might not be a bad idea. I'm getting tired of borrowing from "next week" to live through this one. I was informed that DS' dad was laid off so I wont be seeing CS for a few weeks until the UE kicks in. This all adds up to a nearly $300 deficit.. exactly as I mentioned in my previous posts. Obviously this isn't a HUGE amount, just enough to push me further away from my "breaking even" goal. I have a $500 sprint bill as well. I can't even begin to tell you how much this makes me want to throw up a little. I changed my plan to add my cousin and got the new phone, etc. Somehow the way it was all broken down has left me with a bill that I can't even think about. There's too many things adding up financially right now. I am going to throw a party the day this all gets cleared up! :-) On top of this, DS' bday party is this weekend and I have to find a cake this week.

On a happier note, I've done some research on going back to school and will be filling out the FAFSA this week. I just got all my tax docs back and can get started tonight hopefully. DS has a baseball game but other than that, I have nothing else to accomplish tonight :)

Hopefully soon I'll report in that things are amazing on all fronts.

I appreciate all your comments about where/how to volunteer. I have started to gather info from some friends that read the blog and have googled some of your ideas for my area as well. Once DS' bday is over I'll have the time to start calling and getting something permanent.

In the meantime, the humidity has hit. Pennsylvania needs to take a break from this for just one year. I hate that I had to put the A/C on last night. I woke up around 2am and was SO hot.. I can't stand it. Every year I swear I'm going to wait until June and it never works!

Can't think of anything else for today!
xoxo-nklsmom

Stella, how do I find my groove???

2010-04-30T10:50:00.000-04:00

We do a pretty decent job here on our PF blogs not to get “too” personal. We may discuss our lives in the overall but rarely do we get too deep. I am breaking that rule a bit here in the hope that one of you will be able to help. Last night, after explaining to my father that I felt overwhelmingly lonely, tired, lazy, and broke I did some thinking. After listening to his advice (go volunteer, get out and walk, get a pt job) I felt that he had one amazing point. He suggested I write down all the things I was unhappy with and prioritize them. If I could conquer the largest issue, the others wouldn’t be so bad. So what I came up with are the items listed above. I’m lonely, then lazy, then broke, then tired. I have given up the lose weight goal and it needs to be reinstated, but that falls under lazy. So.. in order to help deal with the lonely I am going to try to volunteer. The question?? HOW do you volunteer?? I don’t want to go to the hospital because I feel that it would depress me further to be around the sick. So, what else?? Where else?? Do any of you have a tried and true method to it? How do you find/chose a worthy cause?

I challenged my BFF to do this with me but she’s lazier than I am apparently ;-)
In the challenge to her I added a number of extras though so I’m going to be busy! I decided I want to become one with the universe (I’m going to plant a tree), do one “green” thing (suggestions?), I’m going to look into going back to school, develop an interest in something (ie:hobby), and join a club.

I’m giving myself until the end of May to have all this lined up. Whether I’ve begun accomplishing these things or not, I have to have some kind of plan by May 31. So ladies and gentlemen, HELP!

xoxo-nklsmom

8 Questions for the Broke

2010-04-30T10:18:00.000-04:00

I honestly think this applies to me.. I was reading this and felt the "oh wow" moment happening. I am going to break this down as it applies to me and challenge any of you that are struggling to do the same. It can be eye opening to realize even though you're interested and invested in your finances, things still slip!

Do I know where my money is going?
Since I don't carry cc debt I do know where my money is going. The sad fact is that even though I realized a few months ago that I was overspending at CVS, I have now begun overspending at 7-11 to make up for it. I need to let go of my twice a day diet coke refill habit. I am watching funds fly away and it's because of a stupid addiction to diet coke. I always grab something else when I'm there too.. which means, I am NOT being financially responsible.

Am I focusing too much on the month, instead of the year?
YES! I am only just beginning to put together a savings account for those annual fees, or even quarterly one (such as my trash bill). But at least it has come to my attention!

Do I do something everyday that wastes money?
See the twice daily diet coke refill!

Do I know my own weakness?
This would be why I rarely go to Target! I live for books, movies, diet coke and cigs. These are the aggressors in my wallet. Half my apartment is book shelves and the other is dvd shelves. I figured out the other night that just in TV shows alone, I've spent over $2000. Granted I didn't do this overnight, but still. So, yes I know my weaknesses.. I just ignore them.

Am I saving too much?
Wouldn't it be nice if I could say yes?

Is my relationship hurting my bank account?
Once again, I wish I could say yes.. because it would imply I had a relationship. What can occassionally hurt my bank account is the "lets order lunch" friends at work!

Are the big items dragging me down?
No. I rarely buy any big ticket items. Other than my tv (on sale for $229) I haven't bought anything in years.

Am I wasting money by carrying debt?
I am carrying cc debt and car payments. I am settling the first and am content with the second. As you can see from my previous post, I'm about 2 years away from the 2nd being gone. The cc debt will be gone by next Feb. I can honestly say that I don't feel that this is dragging at me.

Its always a bit of a shocker for me to look at my check book register and realize how un-frugal I am. I think I'm amazing because I spend less than $50 a week in groceries, but I high tail it to 7-11 for a hot pretzel and soda a few times A DAY! I need to become more structured and think ahead. I need to take my own advice and leave my debit card at home. I need to stop whining and just DO SOMETHING!

How do you feel about your answers to these questions?
xoxo-nklsmom

Car Payments!

2010-04-27T13:28:00.000-04:00

I finally signed up to view my current car loan online. My original loan was through Sovereign bank and then it transferred to Santander. I have only had to make one phone call in the life of this loan so it's never been a big deal. It's been set up on auto-pay since the first payment was due. I have never checked to see what I have left to pay in the 3-1/2 years I've had my car. I just looked at my remaining balance - yay!

BALANCE (This is not a Payoff):
$4,571.65
PAYMENTS MADE:
37
MATURITY DATE:
3/26/2012
LAST PAYMENT AMOUNT:
$214.17
FEES DUE:
$0.00

I can't believe it's under $5000!! :-)
I know it's probably not a big deal but it was the first loan I have ever had in my name alone and I'm darn proud of myself for bein' such a big girl! lol.
That's all the news for today folks!
Have a great Tuesday.
xoxo-nklsmom

What a Month!

2010-04-23T13:23:00.000-04:00

As far as work goes, I just negotiated my biggest savings since I started working here. A client is saving over $400 a month! That is amazing - especially since it's someone that is seriously in need of help and willing to make any payment available. It makes my job so worth it when something like that happens! :-)

On a personal level I'm running about $300 behind this month. I HATE it. I have to figure out how to rob Peter to pay Paul. I'm really thinking it might be smart to find myself a second job. Even if it's just a few days a month to try and catch up with the little things.

DS has a baseball game this weekend - can't wait for that. He gets his pics done tomorrow morning (another "little thing" that keeps popping up). That's about all I have planned this weekend.

Until later,
xoxo-nklsmom

Are YOU on the Yellow Brick path?

2010-04-21T15:37:00.000-04:00

Good Afternoon Folks!!!

I just wanted to call your attention to the new logo on my sidebar! I am so proud to finally be able to discuss where I work.

Yellow Brick Financial is a company that specializes in helping anyone in a financial situation they’re no longer able to handle on their own. They offer several options for those who’ve found themselves behind in their finances. The men and women I’m surrounded by, sincerely care about the people they help each day. Instead of being just an account number, clients actually become “members” of our community. Even when we’re on a break, advisors are discussing the best options available to those we’re helping. We are in constant contact with our members, whether via monthly check - in phone calls or email notifications. We are dedicated to helping anyone in financial need reach a solution that benefits them first and foremost. The link will lead you to a landing page that allows you to get free information about your own situation, or just sign up for our newsletter – which hands out amazing monthly advice. I have been here for six months now and have never been happier with a company in my life!

Please take the time to check it out if you feel that it would benefit you J

xoxo-nklsmom

Maybe you should buy.. from BofA anyway.

2010-04-21T10:15:00.000-04:00

Stop and Read THIS..
Ok seriously, what is going to stop people from just "being" unemployed?? Man, I don't want to go to work today.. or tomorrow.. I know!! I'll get fired and have no mortgage payment for 9 months! I'm probably not being fair to most, but you can't tell me that the lazies that live next door wouldn't grab this in a New York minute! Some of what I'm seeing is starting to drive me nuts. I know that things are rough in todays economy and that if someone were to offer me help, I'd grab it - but COME ON!! Can you imagine what would happen if I called my landlord and told him "I've lost my job. I don't have to pay you for the next 9 months right?!" Can you say eviction!? Geez.. end of my mini-rant :)
xoxo-nklsmom

Renting - The American "Daydream"

2010-04-20T11:41:00.000-04:00

I was reading this article and thinking about my job. I work in a field related to this article and am having a sincerely bad day. Reading this only reinforced my idea that it's just not worth it to purchase a home. I have rented my entire adult life and while I don't "LOVE" that my money isn't earning equity, I'm also not concerned with water heaters, plumbing, mowing the lawn, etc. I don't have "unexpected" rental expenses. I think it's amazing that in todays climate people are purchasing homes at all. I have always wanted a home, who doesnt? But feel that it's in my best interests to wait until I can afford for anything in the place to break down at any given time. Unknowns scare me. I like to have a firm grip on my responsibilities and plan ahead. The same could be argued about a vehicle I suppose, but I NEED to get to work. I don't NEED to own a home. With so many foreclosures happening these days, short sales and deed in lieus are in more demand than ever. It breaks my heart to see people who have loved and laughed in their homes for 20+ years, lose it due to the economy - but it's happening. I SEE it happening and it burns. I would think long and hard before going out to buy anything these days.. buyers market or not.
xoxo-nklsmom

Guilt!!!

2010-04-18T22:01:00.000-04:00

I cheated. I feel guilt. I'm so ashamed. Ok, so I went to CVS. Sue me! I can't believe I actually feel guilty about this lol, but I do! I didn't do much damage at all and I walked in with two items to purchase and walked out with those items and nothing more. I cleaned my car and really wanted a deodorizer and I needed a 2 liter of diet coke. $4.00 later I walked out. I didn't browse, I didn't glance anywhere.. I consider it a success! :-)
Finally got the cable and net back at home. I'm pretty stoked about it.. but it's funny that I've had it back for over 24 hours and have barely touched either one. I'm so used to not using them that it feels weird to turn the tv on and find actual channels! DS begged and after a year and a half without, I caved. My boss is going to be chipping in on the net too so it's not like I'll be taking on the full bill each month.
Did the laundry, watered the plants.. nothing else going on this weekend.
Hope you all enjoyed yours! :)
xoxo-nklsmom

Bye Bye ol' Buddy

2010-04-15T16:44:00.000-04:00

I'm saying goodbye to CVS. I have been doing a lot of thinking about this and have decided to take a hiatus. I don't get the deals that Sam does. That girl has it going on. I do save money but I end up stocking up for no real purpose. I am currently stocked for the rest of the year when it comes to toiletries and dish soap! The problem I have with visiting my CVS store is that I never spend what I think I will. EVER. I go in for a pack of cigarettes and come out $20.00 poorer. Instead I am going to try buying a carton of cigarettes a month and try to quit. I am currently a little less than a pack a day kinda gal.. I want to quit by the end of summer. Please don't comment on how I can do it now or get a patch or a pill or something like that. I know my own limitations when it comes to smoking and since I actually like my cigs (It's my winding down in the evening activity when DS goes to bed. I sit on my porch with a book and a glass of wine and a cig.. bliss.) So.. for now I'm going to try to cut down as far as possible and stop using CVS to support the habit. I will do some research to find out who has the cheapest cartons (I have never bought one) and buy one in the beginning of May.
I would like to see this moratorium last until the end of May. I need to have funds saved for some upcoming expenses and figure this would be the best way to try and accomplish it. I make the funds to save the dough, I just know that I overspend when I go to CVS and that won't help my bottom line.
Wish me luck folks! :)
xoxo-nklsmom

I have a friend.. a mother, wife and other!

2010-04-15T14:51:00.001-04:00

You should all head on over to my new friend - she's a mother, wife and other!! I have only just begun following her blog but I have been entertained at each visit. She's a quality lady with a story to tell - and we should all join hands and follow her journey! :)
Head on over and check her out..
xoxo-nklsmom

It's Not Like He'll Read This..

2010-04-14T16:15:00.000-04:00

I rarely put myself out there this much, but I'm tired so forgive me.
I have been in love with the same person since I was 15. I may have had other relationships and a child, but he's the one that has been the "forever kind" in my head since sophomore year. I have never been in a relationship with him but he's been in my life for the last 17 years and today he told me to "have a nice life."
Things have been getting stupid for a while since he lives in CA and I'm here in PA, but still - we were supposed to be each others back up and marry at 35. He was supposed to be around to hug me until I'm too old and feeble to get out of my wheelchair. I've been trying to protect myself for a long time and I guess in doing so, he's gotten angry. Honestly?? Who cares?? If I explained the whole dramatic tale you would all see my side very clearly and tell me I shouldn't waste my time. I have heard those same lines for years from friends and family. I can't let go. I got the "instant message" a bit ago, while at work, and had to race to the restroom and cry myself silly. I hate him so much I love him.. or vice versa. Why are men so ridiculously hard to understand???

Sorry but I had to vent a bit.
xoxo-nklsmom

The Commute

2010-04-14T11:42:00.000-04:00

There was a meeting at work yesterday that produced the possibility of working a few days a week from home. This would be amazing for me since I have an awkward work week due to the commute. I work Mondays and Thursdays until 6 and the other days I leave at 4:30 so I can get DS from aftercare before 6. I leave my house in the morning at 8am and drop DS off at school and generally get to work by 9:15am. The drive is long and boring and time consuming, but I love my job (I will be posting on where I work soon!) and I don't sweat it too much. I do sweat the amount of damage this is all doing to my car and my relationship with DS. He gets upset that I get home too late Mon. and Thurs. to really "do" anything with him before bed.

I did some searching and found this commuting calculator. My annual cost of commuting?? $5817.48!!! I can't believe it's that high! I average about $160 a month in gas and $52 in tolls and Lord knows what it's doing to my engine, but still!! So if I reduce my monthly work days to 12?? $5176.08! That's a great reduction! :)

I hope this is something that comes to fruition because it would allow me more work time and more quality time with DS as well.. and we all know that's priceless!

Have a great hump day all!!
xoxo-nklsmom

Cash is King!

2010-04-13T10:33:00.000-04:00

Another day, another dollar!! Have you ever wondered about that dollar?? It’s an earned dollar, a spent dollar, an interest free dollar, 4 quarters, 10 dimes.. How do you visualize this? Last night I was on the phone with my bestest buddy and she asked why I don’t just leave my debit card at home since I’ve been overspending. I immediately broke out in a cold sweat and said “I CAN’T DO THAT!! What if.. what if.. what if???” I can’t even imagine living life without my debit card in my wallet.

This morning I was reading an article on about.com about overspending and it reminds the reader of the “old days.” You know, about 10 years ago, when we had to physically go to the bank to deposit our checks, to withdraw funds. When we couldn’t go online to pay a bill, balance our checkbooks, transfer funds. It was a bit eye-opening for me because it’s true. When I opened my first bank account I had to go to the bank for EVERYTHING. I haven’t seen the inside of my current bank in years!

So I’ve decided to try it. I left my card at home today as a kind of trial period. Since my funds are extremely limited this month, it can only help to do this. Once May starts I’m heading back to the envelope system and leaving the card at home. I will have to think ahead, physically go to the bank for cash. No more “credit or debit?” inquiries from cashiers for me baby!!

Do you ever think back to the “good ol’ days” when we didn’t have things so easy?? When it was just a tad harder to overspend?? Could you go debit card free??

Enjoy your Tuesday folks!!
xoxo-nklsmom

It's not "always" sunny in Philadelphia

2010-04-12T10:10:00.001-04:00

I tried to take my son to see the Lion King in Philly on Saturday night. Can you say disaster?? I got SO lost it wasn't even funny. I don't spend time in Philly because it scares me - after all the Fresh Prince was born and raised there and got sent to live in better surroundings! lol - so I had no clue where I was going. I followed my mapquest directions and ended up in a neighborhood specializing in tagging. DS was so upset that we didn't get to go and so was I. My new phone had GPS but it couldn't grab a signal. By the time I found the way back to the highway it was 845. We were in the car for a total of 3-1/2 hours and didn't get to see anything.

On a brighter note, DS had baseball practice Sat and Sun and I got some color. DS is really getting good - especially since we didn't really practice since last season. It's amazing what their little bodies can do!

Anyway, nothing new on the financial end today.. still just chugging along.
Hope you all have a great Monday!
xoxo-nklsmom

I'm rolling out the red carpet!!

2010-04-09T13:01:00.001-04:00

I just wanted to thank all of the amazing additions to "my followers!" I have seen the numbers soar in the last month and I'm so happy about it. I am glad to be a giggle, an inspiration, a "what not to do," or something to pass the time with. I love writing this blog and I'm glad you're all in my cyberworld! :-)

Now.. where's number 60??? I wish I had something to give away! lol.
xoxo-nklsmom

It's Finally Friday!!

2010-04-09T10:25:00.000-04:00

Had a great meeting with DS' teachers yesterday. I took him to IHOP to celebrate how far he's come this year. Even though he's finishing up 2nd grade, he's only at a "finishing up 1st grade" reading level. I can't even begin to tell you how much of an improvement that is. We were celebrating the effort he's been showing in class. He has trouble trying when he feels he won't get the right answer, so this is HUGE! :-)

Got some news this morning and I'm not real sure how I'm feeling about it. Can't go into details though because I think it may involve a few of my readers. Let's just say I have some thinking to do.

DS has baseball practice tomorrow and then we're heading into Philly to see The Lion King. I'm so excited about this! It's going to be so amazing. Have any of you seen it?? It's been in NYC and I guess they've taken it on the road.. yay!

That's all for this morning.
xoxo-nklsmom

What "is" time?

2010-04-08T10:57:00.000-04:00

So the time management campaign I started yesterday failed miserably. I got so busy with Part A of my job that I never even touched part B. I have to leave at 1pm today for DS' parent teacher conference so I am pretty sure I won't get to it today either.

I had to inform DS this morning that his DDad wouldn't be attending and his little face fell. He has a decent reason for not attending but since this is the first year he's shown up for school events (other than the musical he went to last year), DS was upset. I calmed him but I'm darn tired of having to make excuses. Of course the meeting is to discuss DS' behavior (every year it takes him about 3 months to acclimate to the routine of listening and behaving well in class) and how we can help him through out the summer so he's better able to adjust to the school routine in Sept. He's spending 2 weeks with DS this summer so I'll have to make sure he's well informed of the discussion. The joys of single parenting never end ;)

I shopped my car/renters insurance yesterday and guess what?! I am saving $12.00 a month. Thank you very much single parenthood. No one could beat my current price until my agent (through Nationwide) asked if I had a child. Apparently insurance agencies here in PA treat single parents as "married" and we're afforded the same rates. YAY!

Keeping track of my finances is really opening my eyes to my idiocy. LOTS of funds go out for no real reason. That will be stopping soon! Geez.. who knew? Of course this will give me a great accounting of how many true no spends I have this month! I'm beginning to count my spend/no spends on the 5th though since that is when I began tracking.

Ok - happy Thursday to all.
xoxo-nklsmom

Extra Bucks are Back Baby!

2010-04-07T15:29:00.001-04:00

I visited cvs.com today and printed out my $9.50 in extra bucks. I will be visiting Sams Secrets later today to print out the list of items on sale this week and the best coupons to use for my trip. I highly recommend you visit her site - Sams the best with coupons and sales! :-)
xoxo-nklsmom

Time Management - or lack thereof

2010-04-07T10:20:00.000-04:00

I've always considered myself a very organized soul. I have a place for everything, and it's always in its place! lol. Anyway, what I've been finding is that I'm not so organized with my time. I get lazy and just put things off, I stop doing something when a new event comes along. I'm constantly "getting to it" when I'm asked about things. Especially at work. There's so many tasks and I just jump around as they come up. Today I'm taking a stand. I've made a schedule for my work day and I'm excited to see if I can stick to it. I can't really write it out here for all to see because you wouldn't get it anyway lol. Not that you're not intelligent enough, just because you're not sure what it is I do for a living :)
Anyway, I'll be updated you all tomorrow on how the schedule went and if it works - how I'll be implementing a schedule into my personal life as well.
Happy April 7th!
xoxo-nklsmom

April Goals

2010-04-06T10:34:00.000-04:00

I’m going to start tracking my funds today. I’ve read that it’s one of the best ways to figure out where your money goes each month and make changes. What I find amusing is that I already know where my funds are. CVS. Not as much now that I’ve learned the game, but still – most of my money lands in their cash registers. Since I have been busier than I’ve been in years over the weekend I put off starting until today. I had to bring DS to work with me today and things didn’t start off well when the alarm sounded so I had to stop and grab a bagel and donut for breakfast. I was so sad to pull my notebook out already this morning. Anyway, that is one major financial goal I have for April.
I also have a non-financial goal that I’ve been getting excited about. If you read The Happy Homemaker you will probably pick up what I’m layin down! ;)
I am going to get rid of 7 items cluttering my home on Sunday. This is a small number and its on a day that I don’t have anything else to do. I like the idea of living a more Spartan life. Having fewer knick-knacks around the house, getting rid of items we rarely use. I did bring 5 garbage bags of items into the house last night but that was because a friend donated summer clothes for DS. I, in turn, handed over a bag of items for her son so we’re all good. I got rid of items and brought some back in. I’m excited to get started with these changes and learn more about how I really want to live!
Xoxo-nklsmom

Back in the Game.

2010-04-05T13:00:00.000-04:00

Hope everyone had a great Easter!! I had a nice time with my famiily and I'm back to work. Things were so crazy last week.. Every time things settle, I get curves thrown fast and hard! I'm hoping things slow down now though because I'm not a fan of constantly trying to make it all work! Tried some new recipes for Easter and let me tell ya - I can cook! lol.. ok only on occassion but still. Did the ham in the crockpot with a recipe that called for cherry coke - really good! Snap peas with a lemon dijon sauce that my son was popping like candy all day! Twice baked potatoes.. salad.. just good stuff.
Nothing else to chime in with for today. Sorry I was gone for so long!
xoxo-nklsmom

So Long..

2010-03-29T10:07:00.000-04:00

My great great aunt passed away over the weekend. She was 95 years old. How do you complain? You really can't. 95 years of a life well lived. She was well loved by a man that passed before her. I'm heading to Jersey today for the wake and funeral so I wont be around for a few days. Just wanted to pop on long enough to remind you all to say "I love you" just one more time before walking out the door.. Hug a bit longer, kiss a bit sweeter.
Life's worth living and living well :-)
xoxo-nklsmom

Ireland

2010-03-26T12:47:00.000-04:00

Those of you that have followed me for a while now know of my love of Ireland. I've wanted to go for over 12 years now. Ever since I started reading Nora Roberts novels and longing to walk the green fields and "find myself." I have been saving and saving and having to spend and spend and then forgetting my dream for a while. A few months ago I signed onto Travelocity and asked that they email me when the tickets go down. Well they're stepping up and right now I can get a ticket for $330. Look at my sidebar.. no can do! I want to weep that it's taking me so long to make this happen. I want to do it debt free so I can't just throw it on a card and run off to another country. I want to see $3000 in that account. I want to be able to sit in a pub and have a pint of guiness without worrying about account balances. Today it's hard to sit at work in the dreary PA rain and know that I could be sitting in a stone dance under an clouded sky dreaming dreams..
I just wanted to share my sorrow in knowing my dreams COULD be realized if life hadn't thrown me so many lemons this last year.. but ya know what?? I'm about to make some lemonade!!
xoxo-nklsmom

One Way To Deal With Debt

2010-03-25T10:30:00.000-04:00

Negotiate Your Credit Card Debt

Many people are paying their credit card debt before their mortgages, in a reversal of common sense unseen before. However, wouldn’t it be better to keep your home and negotiate the credit card debt to make it more manageable? Before you risk the loss of your home, there are ways to get current on your credit card, reduce your payments, and help you to weather the last vestiges of this recession.

Call Your Bank Lender

Oddly, you do have to wait to miss a payment or two before your lender will probably be willing to negotiate your debt. Thus, you will suffer a few dings to your credit rating, but it can pay off in the end. If you are current, there’s not much incentive for them to think about lowering your rate or offering you a payment plan. Take the money you would have paid your lender and put it in an emergency fund. Realize that once the account is closed you won’t be able to charge cash advances or new purchases to it. Once you do miss a payment or two, be sure to contact your lender (if they haven’t already gotten a hold of you). Explain why you are falling behind, whether it’s a job loss, reduced hours, poor cash flow, or high debt loads. Either way, make sure they understand you want to negotiate a way to reduce your payments.

What They Might Offer

Many banks are offering to reduce your rate, if you agree to close the account. If you have several credit cards, choose the ones that you want to keep open, and close a few others. Again, your credit may be affected. However, once you’ve agreed to a payment plan, your rate will decrease and your payments will become more manageable. This can buy you time to recover. Should your situation improve, you can ask them to re-open the account after you’ve made six months of on-time payments. Depending on your situation, you may or may not be able to re-open the account.

Back in Action

2010-03-24T12:08:00.001-04:00

Sorry I've been MIA for a few days. I have been dealing with a hundred things these days and haven't had the time to update anything! I started the 30 Day Shred on Saturday and I'm aching and whining and complaining every chance I get. Just because I have to lose like 80 lbs doesn't mean I can't b*tch about it every chance I get! :)
Works been great.. Good things ahead I hope.. will keep you posted on this one since they're interested in the fact that I blog. :)
Financially I'm doing well but not as good as I could be doing. I have family visiting and I've been spending and not paying enough attention to my no-spend days. I need to make a decision on how to handle these hiccups.
Hope all is well with everyone out in blog-land. I will be catching up with you all soon I promise :)
xoxo-nklsmom

Blah

2010-03-18T14:09:00.000-04:00

Financially I'm having hiccups.. personally I'm drowning.
Sorry I've been MIA for a few days here but I have so much on my mind that I can't stop thinking. There really isn't anything new to chime in about other than a few cool things I did online.
Inbox dollars has an option to sign up for Gevalia and get $4.00. If you sign up for 3 coffees and a gift mug, it costs $3.00 including shipping. Once you receive your shipment you can cancel. So you get 3 coffees, a mug, and a dollar for free! :-)

xoxo-nklsmom

Rockin' and Rollin.. and what not..

2010-03-12T11:10:00.001-05:00

Things have been a bit up in the air for me this week. The only thing I have to report is sending $8.34 to the EF. I decided to add the "extra" funds that are included in my support to the emergency fund. It amounts to either 8.34 or 8.35 a week but still.. extra is extra! :-)
I have nothing else to report in about sadly..
xoxo-nklsmom

Do U Think Of Everything??

2010-03-08T13:43:00.000-05:00

Last night I wrote all my annual expenses and things popped up that I hadn't thought to add to my budget. I realized that every year when 'back to school' rolls around, I spend around $75.00 on school supplies, including lunch boxes and backpacks. This is something that I NEVER budget for. I always have a rough August because I'm rushing around trying to find decent prices on tissues, pencils and folders.

The other expense I never think ahead for is DS' birthday party. I just assume that I'll have the funds to cover it. The park fees are $69 and I buy groceries and my sister makes the cake. No matter what I usually spend AT LEAST $150. I don't think ahead for this.

I am now thinking ahead, I'm a planner baby! I will take the back to school funds from my EF - and have included it in my "goal info" for that category.
I will add an additional $200 to my $500 annual goal for "the holidays" as well and have the funds ready and waiting when May rolls around. This year I have it covered since I will be rcving a bonus.

What do you forget to budget??
xoxo-nklsmom

Weekend Troubles

2010-03-08T10:29:00.000-05:00

I overspent this weekend. Not by much, but I did spend funds that I wasn't planning on spending. I stopped at Old Navy and Ross, then again at Target and Lane Bryant. The good news is that I have lost weight.. the bad is that I ate horribly over the weekend. I didn't push myself over budget because I had planned on "fun money" - I just didn't plan on using it all at once. Spent on both days though so my spend days aren't going up at all.. That's all I got for now! Lol.. I did buy my bridesmaid dress, in a size smaller than I originally planned so yay there! :)

No Spend Days = 4/31
xoxo-nklsmom

Saving Funds.. Cheating.. and Shopping!

2010-03-05T10:41:00.000-05:00

I saved some money in the last week and I get to add more to my savings! :-)
Always a happy experience in my opinion. I had set aside $600 for my trip to CA and OR this summer and only spent $587. While $13 isn't a lot, it's headed over to my vacation fund. Even better was the $20 savings on my bridesmaid dress. I thought it was going to be about 160 and instead it's only 140. $20 headed to the wedding fund as well. I may be a mini-saver, but things are progressing and that's all that matters these days.

I cheated on the diet last night. NOT smart cuz all it did was make me sick. Today I woke up early and cut up all my fruits and veggies and left it all neatly on my kitchen counter! Grrr.. gonna have to spend some today and get a fruit cup for lunch or something. I did spend last night so I technically only have 3 no spends right now.

And the happy news.. I have $100 for absolutely whatever I want. I haven't had that much money to just spend in forever and I'm scared to spend it! lol. It might sound funny to some of you, but I don't spend recreationally anymore. I have decided to see if I can find a purse and a pair of jeans. My fav pair just ripped and I need at least one good pair in case we have casual days at work. I live in my other jeans and they're faded.. and that purse.. oh yea baby! :-)

March no spends - 3/31

xoxo-nklsmom

First Transfer

2010-03-04T10:35:00.000-05:00

It might be a mini transfer, but something is better than nothing. Someday when I have time I'm going to put the graphs on my sidebar to track this more easily, but for now.. I had extra funds come in and I took half and transferred it to savings! YAY!! Balloons, confetti, cheers erupt in the crowd! :-)

I decided on my percentages and here we go. $100 was sent to ING and here's how it was doled out.

Holiday Fund: $32.00
Emergency Fund: $30.00
Vacation Fund: $25.00
Auto Fund: $13.00
Wedding - NEARLY FUNDED

Slow start but happy enough for now. I didn't think I would be sending anything to my accounts until the end of April so this is a happy happy day. It might look a little strange that I am putting more in "holiday" than EF but until I finish funding the wedding account, it will look a bit off. I decided to fund 3/4 of the wedding account and just slowly add the rest until November hits. Once that's finished, those funds will head over to the EF.

Who knows, maybe I'll take the other $100 and buy a purse!! Woo-Hoo.
xoxo-nklsmom

March 0 spends: 4/31

Sometimes the world looks perfect..

2010-03-02T12:06:00.000-05:00

I cheated. I tried so hard yesterday and cheated last night. I'm not holding it against myself, nor am I thinking "this doesn't work" and quitting. I stuck to the diet all day and then around 10pm last night I got overwhelmingly hungry. I think I just need to make sure my dinner fills me up a bit more than what I had last night.
Oh well. I did borrow from my tolls to grab a few items at 7-11 last night so that's not good but I will still make it so I am not counting it as a spend day.
Still sticking to the "if I dont use my debit card it doesn't count" rule.
I'm thinking about opening an account at another bank and using it as a "credit card." I will have some extra funds soon and I was thinking about putting like $200 in a checking account and using that debit card as my "credit card." If I spend any of the funds, I will have to return them to myself that month. I just can't decide if this is smart or not. I no longer have any cc's and I like it that way. I dont want the debt but I would like a "backup" in case I need the funds for something. Any thoughts???

xoxo-nklsmom
March no spends - 0/31

Back to Work.. Finally

2010-03-01T10:46:00.000-05:00

I'm back to work after 2 missed snow days. The weather is just getting way out of hand this year. Anyway, I started my "Eat For Life" diet today. So much fruit this morning - I'm way beyond full. This might actually work :)
I am still using the envelope system and it's working GREAT!! I really felt like I would overspend if I worked on a cash basis but it's been wonderful.

Groceries - $150 (spent.. but I'm covered for at least two weeks)
Gas - $40 ($27.25 spent)
Cash - $20 (plus $50 refund check - this is all gone as well as I had to get DS a costume to wear to school and a few other minor expenses)
Tolls - $13 (for the week)
Medicine - $0 (don't have to buy them until my next ck)

I'm pretty happy with the way things are heading.. The only downside going on right now is that I was supposed to get my tax refund on the 5th and when I "where's my refund?"ed this morning, it said the 9th. I was planning on using it for my rent since there were so many snow days and I had fallen behind. I really hope that I get suprised on the 5th!

That's all I got for today. I have been being very careful so things are falling into place nicely. Now if I could just find a man! :-)

Feb. No Spends - 14/28 (didn't meet my goal but not bad)
Goal for March - 20/31

xoxo-nklsmom

ps - shout out to DG! I'm so glad you're following me lol..

Throwing Towels

2010-02-24T15:47:00.000-05:00

I wanna throw in the towel right about now. More snow.. more snow days! I'm still sore from shoveling the ridiculous amounts we got a few weekeneds ago. There is no where else to pile it and I'm not going to be able to get my car out of my drive. I am going to have to find a way to get a picture of my driveway on this site so you can all see that it's ridiculously tight and hard to escape from on a good day. I can't afford any more missed work. Grrr..

The Big Bad Budget

2010-02-22T15:38:00.001-05:00

It’s been broken down, it’s been added up, I’ve made a mountain out of a mole hill and a speck of dust out of a mountain. What am I?? My budget of course!
I’ve decided to put it all out there folks! I have it knocked down to weekly amounts so ..

Week #1
Tolls - $13.00
Meds - $25.00
Cash - $10.00
Gas - $40

Week #2
Electric - $141.24
Car - $214.17
Cell – Around $100
Tolls - $13.00
Cash - $20.00
Gas/Grocery - $40/75
“Debt” - $25.00

Week #3
Tolls - $13.00
Cash - $10.00
Gas - $40.00

Week #4
(garbage every 3 mos) $45
Blockbuster - $4.23
Health Ins - $36.00
Rent - $875.00
Tolls - $13.00
Cash - $20.00
Gas/Groc - $40/75

Entertainment - $50 per month
Padding for the acct - kept at $50

There it is.. the funds that leave my building!
Starting next month there will be an added bonus of funds heading to savings! That is going to be my focus for 2010. I want to see healthy ING accounts for Christmas. I want to have cash on hand when DS’ bday rolls around or when I decide I’m finally heading to Amish Country! Yep, I’m a nerd but I wanna go there for a weekend.
That’s all – just wanted to finally put it in writing.

Cranky Pants

2010-02-22T10:40:00.001-05:00

Why is it that I finally get a handle on my financial life and I just wanna cry? No, it’s not that time of the month, and I’m not wearing my cranky pants today either. I’m just tired. I’m tired of having no money, I’m tired of budgeting, I’m tired of worrying. I want a purse darnit! I stopped buying them last year because I was getting like one a month. I never spent more than $20 on a purse, but it was adding up. I haven’t had a ‘just for fun’ purchase in forever.
I know it’s my own fault and I put myself in this position but still.. As Dr. Phil would say “how’s that working out for you?” It’s not. I’m getting bored with my life, my spreadsheets aren’t exciting to me right now – they’re sad. I see the possibility of savings, I see happy numbers in my future, but I’m so worked up about saving that I’m not taking time to do anything fun. I know that fun things don’t always have to cost us financially, but heck even a movie would be nice. Until Friday my budget is completely nil.. I have NO funds to do anything. Normally this would cause my heart rate to rise and I’d head to the nearest store with my cc to buy myself some sanity. No more of that. I’m just dealing with it.. but it’s making me tired.
I just want a purse!
*sigh*

xoxo-nklsmom

Woo-Hoo

2010-02-20T15:29:00.000-05:00

I did my taxes last night. Can you say "big.. huge?" It's all completely gone since I have to return the funds that I was loaned through out this year. I have to say it was one of the worst years I've ever lived through, financially speaking. The good news is that there will be enough left over to fund the wedding account. I no longer need to add to it.. YAY!
The rest of the funds will be doled out accordingly:

X - funds returned to my dad for loan
X - funds returned to a friend for loan
$200 - funds returned to my grandmother
$250 - dental bill
$600 - trip for a wedding this summer (not DSis')
$300 - work on my car, including tires

I can't remember the rest off the top of my head.. but only a few pennies will be spent on anything 'now.' I know it looks like some of the funds will be for fun (ie: the trip this summer) but they're financial goals that needed to be met in order to have a life. My bff in high school is getting married in July in CA and he needs to have me in the audience! :-) After I leave CA I'm heading to OR to see my current BFF. She came here to PA to see me last year so I'm excited to return the favor :)

That's really all to report today
xoxo-nklsmom

Savings and Snowballing??

2010-02-19T15:01:00.000-05:00

Savings Funds – The Hows and What Fors for Me

I am really happy to report that beginning in March, my ING accounts will see activity! I’m stretching and limbering up to start hurling money through the cosmos towards my savings goals! The real question at this point is – how do I best arrange my financial goals? I have 6 accounts. One account gets $5 every other week and that is an actual savings account at my bank. This is just a fund to cover “whatever’s” and I don’t spend much time looking at it. That account is not going to be included in my monthly savings amounts. Below are the accounts I need to fund. (my monthly savings budget is $200)

Emergency Fund: This is pretty obvious. I would like to see about $10,000 in this account. I have been out of work so much this year, I feel it’s imperative to start this account. After reading so many blogs that are ambivalent about how much and how quickly to fund an emergency account, I’m beginning to wonder about my goal. My original plan was 33% of the $200 going to this account, now I’m re-thinking.

Vacation: Lets face it guys and gals, I need to leave the country in my lifetime. I HAVE to go to Ireland and I WANT to do in my thirties. I’m 32 now and I would love to be able to do this for my 35th birthday. I am thinking roughly in the $3000 range but I haven’t done serious research on this one yet. Goal was 16% of the $200

Auto: This fund is for my registration, oil changes, inspections, and any minor ‘uh-ohs’ that pop up. I have a goal of $1000 and also had 16% set aside.

Holiday: This is obvious – I need $500 before Xmas! Beginning in January 2011 it will be bumped up to $700 since I usually spend $200 on DS’ birthday party, gifts, etc.

DSis’ Wedding: Ok, this one’s tricky. I don’t know if she ever sees my blog so I don’t want to mention an amount. I will be paying for my dress and shoes with my income tax money so this fund is for her bridal shower, bachelorette party and wedding gift. I have until November to get it completely funded. No matter what, this will be met – I had originally set 27% aside but this may need to be changed.

My old percentages were based on $300 a month but I hadn’t given myself any room to maneuver in my budget. I have taken $100 and assigned it to co-pays and entertainment and anything left over will go to savings. I find that if I get too severe in my budgeting, I go overboard out of no where. Like a starving dieter who binges on brownies – Target here I come!! Lol.

I just finished reading an article on www.poorerthanyou.com asking how much to put in your emergency fund. It’s changed my perspective on all my accounts. She snowballs her savings and I’m wondering if that might be smarter for me?? Fund the wedding and then continue with the rest?? I’m lost and confused and dazed and nervous. Well, no not really but I would love some input. HELP!

Sliding Downward..

2010-02-18T11:32:00.000-05:00

Every time things start going well they flip on me.. I missed 2 days last week due to snow and DS had a disgusting stomach virus this week causing 2 more. I can't live on half my paychecks. I swear I get so discouraged sometimes.
I signed up for Wachovia's Way 2 Save but I'm thinking it might do more harm than good. It grabs more than I think it will. I'm hoping that it will make me start paying more attention to the number of times I pull out the debt card tho. I use that thing as a crutch when I am trying to deal with envelopes now. Not much else to say since I'm feeling like having a pity party and I left my plastic hat and streamers at home..

No spends = 9/28
xoxo-nklsmom

Followers..

2010-02-12T15:03:00.000-05:00

So.. My followers have jumped quite a bit in the past few weeks. I'm SO excited about this!! I wish that I was comfortable writing about what I'm doing for a living lately but I will say - it's a financial field. I'm LOVING it and am hoping to start posting some fun facts soon. Of course the stuff that I'm "learning" here are things I've known from all of you for a while now.
Anyway - FOLLOWERS - I would love some input. Changes, things to add, anyone have any questions for me?? I'm like an open book and I'm without a chapter title right now since I've been stuck inside due to snow.
So - ask away! I'll answer any questions asked in my next post.
Thank you all so much for following and to the few of you who have been reading for - oh, ever - you rock too :)
xoxo-nklsmom

2010-02-12T14:56:00.000-05:00

Since I had 2 snowdays I finished up the newsletter for my boss and did some budget work. I can honestly say that I have finished my "projected spreadsheets" through December! And I can probably guarantee that they won't look a thing like they do now! Sadly, I'm a really bad spender. I'm hoping that having the projected numbers in front of me, I will do much better in that department. I started enveloping this morning. I don't know how well I'll do with it but hopefully it'll work.

DS made his first grocery list last night. I have given him a bi=weekly allowance of $20 for his lunch items. He will be in charge of picking items, couponing, and picking them up when we get to the store. Anything left from that $20 will be his to keep. I won a budgeting disc from J. Money and my son LOVES it.. He already said that 10% of it will go in the bank.. I LOVE that I'm raising him to believe in saving. He made his list last night and he did well.. only had one item that was a 'want' and said that he is only getting one so that he'll have money left over! :)

I guess that's all.. things have been a bit slow around here so I dont have alot to report..

Just in case you were wondering though - I HAVE NOT gotten a new mascara! :-)
xoxo-nklsmom

Snow, Spending, and Stress!!

2010-02-09T10:45:00.000-05:00

We're heading into more snow. We got about 2 feet over the weekend and they're calling for another foot tonight into tomorrow. Can you say snow day?? I love to hate the snow days. Part of me gets excited about cuddling up and making hot chocolate with DS and the other part growls about missed work. I get nervous driving in the snow and my car isn't doing so great right now so most likely I will be home tomorrow. I have a stand-by to watch DS if its drivable but it's not looking likely.
I am coming in for a few hours on Saturday after DS' basketball practice so that should help matters. Of course if the morons on the turnpike would drive faster than 35 I would make it to work on time and it would all be ok :-) Yes, you do see frustration in that paragraph!
The stress of not really hitting the 40 hour mark and things beginning to pile up is starting to show itself in my sleeping hours. I find myself going to sleep when DS does.. if I'm asleep I dont have to think. This has NEVER been my style.
As for the NO SPENDS.. I finally implemented a good system in figuring out how to "count" them. I have decided that if I spend CASH it doesn't count as a spend day but if the debit card comes out then it'll go against me.
So - drumroll please - I now have 6/25. I haven't taken the debt card out in days and days so .. the cash I have on hand is only for groceries and v-day cards so I'm all good.. I was getting really irritated trying to figure out how to count my no-spends. This seems the easiest way since if I pull the debt card out, it's effecting my bottom line. If I use cash, my budget is still good.

How do you count your no-spends??
xoxo-nklsmom

an update and a question..

2010-02-08T11:18:00.000-05:00

So at this point i'm doing pretty good with my no spends.. not as good as I could be doing for sure, but not bad. I was snowed in most of the weekend - hello snow shovel! I did some exercising though and am proud of the fact that I got myself moving. It's amazing how out of shape I am! I really thought "piece of cake" when I went to do The Firm.. not so much Stace!! Anyways.. the no spends stand at 3/25 still. The spending I have done has been minimal though. I have to count it because funds have left my wallet, but it's been for the newspaper and a few items to make a birthday cake for the guys at work. I have $.05 in the bank right now. That is scary but I should start with my bonus this paycheck so starting Friday I'm hoping my standing improves drastically. I have enough funds for milk, tolls, and valentines day cards for DS. :) I should be reporting lots of no spends this week! Forced or not, I'm hoping I meet my goals.

Question: What do you think is something that people never think to add to the budget?? I asked a few people about this over the weekend and I got some pretty good answers.. cigarettes, medicines, retirement.. what do you think the answer would be???

ladies.. all the ladies..

2010-02-04T11:34:00.000-05:00

I just ran out of clear mascara. I have no RR and no EBs.. This is very very sad for me! I am nearly out of cash and I dont want to go over. If you have an idea on how to get my mascara cheap let me know. I didn't get any of the sale ads last weekend so I dont even know if it's on sale anywhere!!

I recalculated the entire budget last night and have decided that starting next monday I will post the weekly bills and budget. Hopefully by having it in front of me on a weekly basis, things will run a bit smoother. I am still doing well as far as the no spends though!

no spends - 3/25

xoxo-nklsmom

Struggles.. with an upbeat

2010-02-02T11:15:00.000-05:00

I spent a bit last night that I shouldn't have.. but I also had some funds come in that I wasn't expecting. I'm happy to say that I should be able to "live" another week! :) I am having trouble sticking to the no spend situation. I spent yesterday and am spending today as well. All funds are coming from my "cash" allowance so I am going to say that if I'm spending "cash" than it's a no spend. I was counting on using those funds for 'whatever' anyway. I have very little left at this point so I'm hoping that the rest of the month gets easier. Will power is low and I dont know what to do to turn that around. Here's what I'm looking at..

Tolls - $52.00
Meds - $25.00
Cash - $40.00

I have spent around $22 of the cash tho so I'm going to be much more careful now since I really want to succeed and it's only the 2nd!! Ugh.. well here's to a better tomorrow! :-)

xoxo-nklsmom

no spend 0/28

You're wondering how it's going??

2010-02-01T14:01:00.000-05:00

Well it's not! Ugh. I have had a number of breakdowns this month and none of them have led to anything positive - until now. I quit smoking and start back again, just to quick again. Since my last post I've purchased 2 packs of cigarettes and they are now completely gone and I'm smoke free (again).. The fitness situation has degenerated - but I did lose a total of 7 pounds. I have slacked considerably but am hoping to start back up again tomorrow - I got chicken fingers and fries today so I can't really start now!
The reason for all the yo-yoing?? Financially, I'm screwing up. I am making next to nothing which is causing me to completely forget about my financial life. I don't look in the checkbook, I barely glance at my balances online.. it's ugly. The savings is gone and the checking is LOW! I have gotten on such a decline that I can't even see the top anymore.
I finally forced myself to sit down and figure it all out. I've made order out of chaos and am putting it into effect for February. I WILL end the month with 25 no spend days, I will live on $10 cash a week, I will spend no more than $100 on groceries and $150 on gas.
I used to love you all and spend 1/2 my days reading your blogs and charting my progress.. I'll find my way back again. When things get bad I've never "hidden" until now. I'm taking my head out of the sand and starting over!!
If any of you have any clues on how to be a "no spender" for an entire month, please share!!

*happy happening - I won Budgets Are Sexys "how do you teach your kids about money" contest!! Yay me!! Its the first thing I've won in 2010 and the 2nd thing I've won EVER!! :-)

xoxo-nklsmom

Happy Birthday to Me.. except I turned 32 - yuck!

2010-01-11T13:11:00.001-05:00

Not good. Poor. Below Average. This is how my financial world is looking. I’m tracking my funds and have managed to spend almost every day this year. I have made a few positive changes though. I have tried before and failed, but am again on the “I’m going to be a non-smoker” bandwagon. Today is day #1 but that will obviously save me quite a bit of money. I haven’t “bought” lunch all year, only used a subway gift card I got for Xmas. I began my “life style change” on the 4th and so far I’ve lost 5 lbs. “Life style change” sounds so funny.. I’m not coming out of the closet, just changing the way I eat. I decided that if I view it as a “diet” I’ll cheat or gain anything lost right back. I’m changing the way I view food instead. I ordered “Eat for Life” which was recommended by a co-worker and I believe is endorsed by Whole Foods. I’m excited to see what it has to offer me. My best male friend in high school is getting married in June and I want to look my best obviously so hopefully I can drop as much of this packaging as possible by then. Well, guess that’s about all for now!

It's been eventful

2009-11-25T19:50:00.000-05:00

Been busy around here. Had another job change and boy am I getting tired of that. I love the new one and am hoping that it lasts. It's guaranteed until the end of the year only so.. fingers crossed. Did a bit of shopping this week. Hit CVS and Walgreens last weekend. Walgreens after church is just a really relaxing thing and I don't know why lol. I did the cracker deal and just sent my rebate offer in this morning. I spent around $6 and will get $10 back :) yay for free money.
Did the Clean and Clear deal at CVS too.. here's a question. I have a closet full of pretty much free items and I have no idea what to do with them. There isn't room for anything else in there at this point. I'm going to have to stop doing deals for a while. I've completed my stepmom and sisters Xmas baskets now so that's a bonus :)
I went to Target tonight and am really happy with that. It was the first time I put couponing to work there and am a satisfied customer. I can't handle the Black Friday shoppers so yes I know I could have done better but.. I'm good with what I got.

I got Snow White -$5.00 coupon
Clue Jr (xmas) $10.99
Bokugon (xmas) $8.99 *marked down from 11.99
5 Glade candles $1.00 each after coupons
(2) Airwick items that were clearanced for $4.24 - 3. coupon

all in all I spent $47 and will be selling the Snow White for $10 and got the $5 Target gift card. So I purchased ~$78 in merchandise, paid $47 and "got back" $15. Not bad for a few minutes work lol.

Now I just have to figure out how to donate some of this stuff!!
Hope you all have an amazing Thanksgiving! I'm usually in CA with my family this time of year and instead I'm in PA with family. Not a bad thing, but I really miss my CA family today. I was watching 90210 last night "on accident" cuz I dont love the show, when my brother popped up doing stunts. I cried.. sounds pathetic since he's nearly 30 but I miss my baby brother! *stamps foot*

Also - ordered my 50 free holiday cards tonight. These blogs are the best :) It's going to be sad when I go home next week and don't have daily access to them anymore!

Anyway, once again.. Happy Turkey People :)
Be thankful for all you have and each other.
xoxo-nklsmom

ps.. I'll be watching the parade in the morning and getting a bit teary eyed as I always do when Santa waves us on to Christmas.

It can be pretty funny!

2009-11-15T21:22:00.000-05:00

I spent the weekend at my dads with my sister and so I hit a different CVS this morning for my weekly shop. It was so funny to witness the sales girls face when I made $60 in merchandise hit $7. "Is this right??" lol.. yes it is!

I got the following

Airwick Freshmatic $7.99
-5 coupon = 2.99

Glade Sense & Spray $6.00
-3 coupon = 3.00

2 Glade refills 2/6.00
-3 coupon = 3.00

Duracell batteries $2.99
-1 coupon = 1.99

2 packs Trident 2.00
-1.50 coupon = .50

(3) Nivea lip 9.00
-BOGO coupon
-Buy 3 get 1 Nivea 13.5 lotion free
-1 coupon on any Nivea product = 5.00

I also had the spend $20 get $4 EB
a 20% off total coupon
a 5/30 coupon
and $7 EB

so after handing over my coupons in the order I had arranged I ended up with a total of $7.12 :)

I had wanted to do the Scope Outlast but I didn't see any sale signs on it and I didn't feel like dallying.
I've been getting sick these last few days and I'm trying to spend the weekend lounging so I feel better during the week.
Hope everyone had a great weekend! :)
xoxo-nklsmom

Dresses and Cameras and Meds oh my!

2009-11-07T19:10:00.000-05:00

So - Tried on bridesmaid dresses for my baby sisters wedding today! Had a great time.. that's me and the babiest sister! lol.. Altho those are not the colors for the wedding I fell in love with the dress :)

If anyone has any ideas on cheap disposable cameras I'd love to hear them. We need 25 and have a year to get them! :)

Did the medicine deal at CVS this week and am all ready for the childrens meds deal tomorrow. I hate waiting for the next sale lol.

Things in the money universe are still topsy turvy but hopefully they'll settle soon. I keep having things pop up that shouldn't but I'll handle it. I'm praying that by the first of the year I'll have it all straightened out. I just have to stick to the Xmas budget like glue and I'll be singing in the new year.. and my 32nd birthday! Ugh. I think my gift to myself will be going to see the Robert Downey Jr/Jude Law movie.. Holmes I think?? I love them both and am excited to see it.

Guess that's all for tonight ladies and gents!
xoxo-nklsmom

ps.. maybe I'll wear the dress in public and see if I can catch a man!! lol.

Another Trip

2009-10-30T09:59:00.001-04:00

Stopped at CVS again on my way home last night and grabbed the Dove deal again. I was pretty sad that I couldn't do the Glade deal at Target so I figured that would make up for it :)

2/7 Dove Deodorant
-4 coupons = 3
2/7 Degree Deodorant
-3 coupons = 4
1/7 Dove Lotion 16 oz.
-1.50 coupons = 5.50
Total = 12.50
-10 Extra Bucks
OOP = 2.50 Plus I got $10 more EB!

I'm learning :)
Excited to start the grocery store shopping this weekend.

Didn't get the child support deposit today. Not real thrilled about it as it's all automated thru the court and when this happened a few months ago it lasted weeks. Soon I won't have to "count" on that as income but for now, sadly I can't do without it. From what I understand DEX's employers have 5 days to transfer so I'll wait until Tuesday before I get too upset about it.

Thinking I might paint my room this weekend. I did the whole apartment a few months ago and my room is now half orange. Didn't have enough paint and didn't have the time or money to get more paint so I'm left in a disaster zone. The rest of the place is adorable, but my room is a frightening experience. I still have white from the landlord so I may just take the weekend and knock it out. DS is with his dad so I can get it all taken care of without much ado!

Question for the masses: When you do CVS/Walgreens/Target, etc. shopping - do you have a weekly amount you spend on these deals or do you just grab them up no matter what??

xoxo-nklsmom

Giant Grocery Here I Come!

2009-10-29T16:29:00.000-04:00

Ok - This is the first time I'm going to attempt this so.. here goes.

I went thru the Giant Food ad and found things that were on sale that I had coupons for. All of these items are not necessarily on my shopping list but when you can get something for .50 or under, why not stock your shelves??
*my coupons are doubled under $1.00*

Keebler Peanut Butter Crackers (just one)
2/$4.00 -.50 -.50 = $1.00

Cheerios - for DS
2/$4.00 -$1.00 = $3.00
*searching for a better coupon here.. if I could find a .75 it would be better*

Tropicana OJ
$2.69 - $1.00 = $1.69

Steamfresh veggies
2/$2 -.50 -.50 -.50 -.50 = FREE

Betty Crocker Brownies
2/$2 - .75 -.75 = $.50

Starkist Tuna
1/$1.00 -.50 -.50 = FREE

Yoplait Yogurt
3/$1.50 - .55 -.55 = $.40

Creamer
$1.99 - 1.00 = $.99
*searching here too*

so far I've spent $7.58 on 13 items - but I haven't added fruit or milk..
This is great!! Until I start making more dough I need to keep things around $20-30 a week and if I was doing ok before its only going to get better now! :)
xoxo-nklsmom

My Brother Scares Me!!

2009-10-29T09:30:00.001-04:00

This is what I saw when I woke up this morning. My brother doing stunts on some show called 1000 Ways To Die.. um.. yea. First he gets another year with a clean bill of health - praise God - and then I see this. Its one thing when he throws fruit on Greek, falls off a bike, or surfs on 90210. This scared me!

Did the Chex Mix deal at Target last night. They were on sale for $1.17 a piece and I had the .50 off coupons. I got 7 of them. Got a box of Cinnabon breakfast bars as well. $1.00 after coupon. I didn't get to do the Glade deal because I couldn't find the coupons!! Grrr.. I was excited about adding them to the Xmas gift baskets. I'm going to have to hunt down someone who can tell me where they went!! Oh well.. that's all for now.
xoxo-nklsmom

My First "Real" Try

2009-10-28T09:04:00.000-04:00

I did the Dove deal at CVS last night. Unfortunately I didn't get the best deal I could have but I'm still plenty happy with myself. The dove coupons would only let me print twice so I had to use another coupon I had. This is how it worked out.

2 campbells soups 2/$1
coupon - $1 off 2 = FREE

2 dove deodorants 2/$7
coupons $4 off = $3

2 dove deodorants 2/$7
coupon $1.50 off 2 = $5.50

dove body wash $7.00
coupon $2 off = $5.00

nail polish remover $1.99
green bag tag $.99

so I spent ~$14.00 OOP
but I got the $10 ECB

Not the best but considering it was my first "extravaganza" I'm not complaining. I need to push my ECB up a bit so that I can really take advantage of all the offers..
Can't wait until my next trip! :)

Thank you Sarah!! lol.
xoxo-nklsmom

CVS .. and then some..

2009-10-27T11:44:00.001-04:00

So.. had a few minutes this morning to look at the CVS ads. There’s really nothing much going on there this week although I did get excited about the soup. I am big on adding soups to my chicken and making it with sandwiches on cold fall days. The sale is 2/1.00 and I found a coupon for $1 off 2. Woo-hoo.. Free soup baby.
Anyway, Sarah is totally my hero but it’s gonna take me a while to get up to her stats.
Living and working and paying things off.. a bit at a time. I had to join a debt management plan because I got so upside down with everything. When I lost the last job there was just no catching up. I’m hoping that now that I have a pretty steady (cross fingers) position I’ll be able to get everything pulled together and be back on track. I still don’t have any extras.. and I got rid of nearly everything on my cell. I was hoping to get cable back by Xmas but I don’t think that’ll be happening until April – when I should be making a bit more each month. I’m getting worried about Xmas but will face it when it comes. For now I have one DS done and a few items for a few other people. I’m making baskets for my sisters and my stepmommy.. It’s my dad and his current wife that I’m struggling with. What do you get for people who buy themselves anything they want – all the time!! Ugh..
That’s about all for today! 
xoxo-nklmom

Added - What's amazing about my friend KM?? She just gave me three baskets so a chunk of Xmas spending is now eliminated.. woop! :) lol, yea I just wrote woop!

Oh wow it's been forever!!

2009-10-02T14:38:00.001-04:00

Things have been pretty darn bad over here. I have taken every hit the economy could have thrown at me. I have been unemployed more than I've had a job in the last year. So for now - I'm just riding the wave. I have barely glanced at my checkbook in the last few weeks because I'm just to afraid to know. This isn't said as something for anyone to "yell" at me about. I'm perfectly aware that I should be even more careful right now but I'm not spending so I'll deal with it. I finally took it all out last night and put everything on paper. NOT GOOD!! I'm really hoping that I can get everything cleaned up this month but since even rent is shaky I'm not sure how well I'll do. Just wanted to let you all know I'm not down and out totally! Can't wait to be able to catch up with everyone soon!
XOXO-nklsmom

Visit, Donate, Be AWARE!

2009-04-16T12:31:00.000-04:00

As many of you remember, my younger brother suffered from testicular cancer. Together with my aunt, I helped to start "Back on the Board Foundation." Awareness and financial donations are now what we're after. Read Adams testimonial and don't forget that (as Adam tells me) "it's ok to talk about your balls!" - even if you don't have 'em! lol.

www.backontheboard.org

Closing Up March

2009-03-27T14:37:00.001-04:00

Last night I headed to Best Buy. I purchased a phone there on 3/6 for $99.99. In order to get the phone I had to sign up for another 2 years on my contract. Not a problem since Sprint will either go under or get some friendlier CS reps one of these days. I LOVE this phone. It’s a purple Lotus LG, totally adorable. Anyway, I am entitled to $75 towards the purchase of a new phone with my last contract. Best Buy wouldn’t honor that, but because the phone was so cheap anyway, I let it go. When I got my $174 (wtf?!) bill however, I called Sprint and asked them to credit my account with the $75. They said no, but they did call Best Buy and tell them to give it to me.

This all got a bit wonky but in the end I walked in last night and got a manager. I explained how I could just return the phone to them (still inside 30-day policy) and buy it again from a Sprint store or he could do something to help me. They returned $46.87 to me in cash.

So ~ I got a $299.99 (original price) phone for $53.12.

Of course I bought the final season of Angel while I was there for $17.99 so technically I got ~30 but still  I saved $18.00 on Angel so that was a deal too.

It looks like this job will be winding down soon  I will be so sad to leave cuz it’s really great here.

DS has bowling tomorrow and starts baseball the weekend after that. I’m so excited that we’re getting to the fun stuff. I love watching sports and going to games. I’m going to the Phillies game next Friday too with DS, DS’ brother and his mom. Should be all kinds of fun!! Anyway, we’re also heading to Jersey to visit family and friends Saturday afternoon. Haven’t been there in a while and I miss my peeps!!

I got a $5 check in the mail from Sycovate so that’ll go towards the high cell bill as well. I don’t like this new “pay one month ahead policy” - $174.00 is just too much money. I had budgeted $100 because of activation, etc. but they double charge you when you change your plan. Yuck. I can’t wait for May because I’ll be officially over the “humps”.

April Extras:
$70 – for the park where I’m holding DS’ bday party in May
~25-30 – Easter stuff (including eggs, basket items) *WAY lower than what I usually spend. I LOVE Easter.
$74 over budget on cell phone

I’ve already started Xmas shopping – so far I’ve got 4 items for each of my two DSisters and DXSM (lol, darling ex-stepmom who is like my mom). Anyway I have 12 items total and have spent roughly $7.00. I have budgeted $15 each. Got a few things for DS as well but I think they may end up in the Easter basket. My goal is to have Xmas done by the end of the summer, except for DS of course.

Guess that’s all for now all.
xoxo-nklsmom

Can you Relate??

2009-03-26T10:51:00.001-04:00

My aunt and I were talking last night about money. Two generations – although she’s only 15 years older than I am. We’re both single parents – she lives in CA and I’m in PA. She said “whoever said money can’t buy happiness is just plain ol’ wrong!” I wanted to argue with her, to tell her that there’s no buying my son’s smile, a sunny day, a crisp fall evening. But she was right. We got into discussing the following:

• Healthy/Organic foods are more expensive than “junk.”
So we are spending more and more money to stay healthy. If you’re like me you’re living on half health/half junk. I can’t afford to keep completely organic so I buy a bit of both. My son is a health nut – weird since he’s only 6, but his favorite meal is salad. It’s getting harder and harder to spend the money on healthy items now when grocery prices are rising as well. If you’re healthy = you’re happier.

• Health Insurance – Lack Thereof
Those of us without it (yes I’m getting it but haven’t had it in months) are in a state of panic. My medications alone are almost $200 a month. This leads to “can I afford it?” Then there’s the concern that when the script runs out the dr’s won’t refill without blood work or consultations. This runs into the hundreds if blood work is included. Let’s not forget that those of us with insurance have to worry about co-pays as well. Maybe it’s not as big of a stressor but it’s still a concern for some people. (This is why I’m starting a co-pay savings account). Health scares and worries lead to ulcers or just plain ol’ anxiety = NOT HAPPY.

• Mental Health
Yesterday my aunt was having a bad day, she felt bad and just wanted to take a half day to regroup. Something she should be able to do considering she is single-handedly raising her daughter and still has her adult son at home. With all the day to day stresses she has with work – she should be able to. Her moan?? “I can’t afford to do it without stressing about the money I’ll be losing.” How sad that we can’t just take a mental health afternoon without worrying about what it would do to your purse-strings. I know that most people have holiday/vacation time, etc. but even then it’s something to worry about. (Remember millionpennies wanted to take a day but stressed over actually getting sick and not having the time to take then??) Being able to take an afternoon to lay around and do nothing = HAPPY.

There were more points to the discussion but these stuck with me. It’s amazing how much of life revolves around thoughts of money. Do you think in a similar fashion??

xoxo-nklsmom

Help Ladies

2009-03-25T13:27:00.000-04:00

I finally had a chance to sit down and figure out the funds. It looks like I’m at about $3800 in cc debt and $1750 in a personal loan. The loan isn’t under fire right now so I can wait until next years taxes to return it. I brought it down from $2250 and will leave it there for a bit. The friend that I owe has even mentioned perhaps working some of it off with administrative work so that is something I’m waiting on too. The cc debt is not good. Because I hadn’t paid on them in a while the interest rates are sky high. I have a state refund coming for $262 (maybe – the person that did my taxes hasn’t finished that part of things). If it does come in than I am going to eliminate one of my cc’s and have that extra each month to apply to the other cards. There are 4 in total. The highest is at ~1700. Looking at it from the stand point of what I am currently doing – It’s going to take me almost 3 years to repay. The others should be done in about a year. I am considering asking my dad to get a 0% cc and letting me put the debt there and paying ~200-250 a month on it. I will not go there until I find a permanent position so that’s on the back burner for now. Here’s the #’s

CC1 - $621.49 ($75@ mo)
CC2 - $1851.91 ($50@ mo)
CC3 - $452.14 ($30@ mo)
CC4 - $257.55 ($30@ mo)
Midas - $391.37 ($35@ mo)

Dental - $703.00 (25 @ mo) 0%
ER - $335.00 ($15 @ mo) 0%

You may wonder why I’m paying the highest amount to CC1 when the limit is lower than CC2. I rcvd papers stating that in May my interest rate is going to spike so I’m attempting to get rid of that asap. I’m gonna go ahead and list all my bills below. Any hints would be appreciated.

Rent $875 – no, I can’t move, lol.

Car $214.17

Cell $89 – no home phone/includes internet since I don’t have it at home.

Elec $150 – on the high end, but it’s what I budget

Thyroid meds - $26 – currently have no insurance but will soon and this will go down.

CC payments ~200

ER $15

YMCA family $14 – keep this because I get financial aid for DS’ summer camp

Dental $25

Blockbuster $4.23 – got this so DS can get 2 movies a month since I have no cable anymore

Health Insurance $35 – have made one payment to get it started

I am also going to be contributing the following:
Car Insurance Savings - $20@wk
Co-Pay Savings - $5@wk
Long Term - $10@wk
Short Term - $5@wk
Gifts - $5@wk
Car - $5@wk

I currently bring in ~$540 @ wk. These numbers are hesitant and savings hasn’t been implemented yet. I am hoping to start all this in April. Let me know what you think.

Gas and groceries are generally around 200 a month.

Help!! Xoxo-nklsom

and here's the kicker

2009-03-18T15:53:00.000-04:00

Life has certainly been interesting lately. I have been working as a temp now for a few months – and have job security only until the end of the month. I love it here and hope hard that I get to stay on. DS has run into a few problems since I started – including his first trip to the ER for stitches.. Thanks to the icy playground, he and I have matching scars on our chins! Lol. He might look like DXBF but he’s all me in other ways lol.
The best bud from Oregon came and stayed with me for a week last month. We hadn’t seen each other in 17 years before that. Thanks to mysp*** we found each other last year – and were nothing more than friends in gym in jr. high. Now we talk daily and it was amazing to see her.
I haven’t had a chance to save a penny – got about 4 months behind on the cc’s and my interest rates are sky high – was able to catch up with my taxes but the balances are being charged like crazy – I still owe the cable company $100 and had it turned off. Thanks to the bad pay history I now have to put a deposit down if I sign back up. It’s messy and awful to comprehend but I got myself into this, with the help of a poor economy of course. I’m losing it half the time, but I’ll pull thru. My old mantra was “debt free by 33” and I since I have about a year and a half to go, I might pull it off.
That’s about all for now peeps.. Will try again soon 
Xoxo-nklsmom

No Time

2009-03-12T16:03:00.000-04:00

I'm alive and well people. I had to get rid of the net since I was out of work for so long. I am working as a temp right now and will try to check in more often. It's been hard trying to stay positive and keep my chin up - but I'm doing it! :)
Hope you're all doing well and I promise to spend a day in the library soon so I can read and update :)
xoxo-nklsmom

Turkey Day

2008-11-27T21:46:00.001-05:00

I'm in California - have been for almost a week now - and it's the same as always. I feel like I've had a very emotional time tho.. too much to figure out in too short a time. I do however, feel like I'm going home knowing myself just a bit better than I did when I got here. I know I'm not making much sense, but coming here this time had a few different meanings this time. Coming "home again" is rarely easy and this time - well, this time I put some pieces together that have been a long time coming.

My sister drove us to the airport last week and got in her first accident. The overpass on the way to the Philly airport was the scene, snowy roads and a skid the cause. Plowed head first into the guard rail. We got a ride in a police car to the courtesy gate.. long darn day let me tell ya. I was sick (still am actually) and had back pain like you wouldn't believe the first few days. Its amazing that I can still say it was worth it! lol.

Visited a few friends, argued with others :) California is a great place to visit but boy am I glad I don't live here anymore. We drove past a cute little house the other day, 2 bedrooms - ONLY $3500 a month in rent. Sheez! I got a notice before I left that my rent was going up $25 starting in 09. I can't even complain after seeing that rental sign. I'll deal with my $875.

Still no news on the job front but the financial situation is so bad that I have to find something when I get back - anything at this point. I couldn't do much before I came here but now I can start immediately and work 14 hour days if I have to. Man, I can't believe how bad this is getting. I've still been sending resumes from here and nothing!

Hope you're all enjoying your holidays. Will check back in when I get home Saturday :)
xoxo-nklsmom

Just had to share..

2008-11-12T22:44:00.001-05:00

I sent DS to bed tonight pretty ticked at me. He wanted to sleep with me and I said no. I've been limiting this to once a month now - much better than it used to be. I was just about to go into his room to grab school clothes for tomorrow and saw this. I have his old Magna Doodle on the wall outside his room for little messages.. Thanks a lot kiddo! lol.. He's lucky I found it while he's sleeping!!

(I don't like my mom! From Nik)

Worry.. thy name is "nklsmom" lol..

2008-11-11T21:59:00.000-05:00

I don't know whats up with unemployment but I have to hope that my funds go through in the morning. When I spoke to them Friday they said it takes 2 days, and since today was a holiday I'm guessing tomorrow it is. I had to ask DSis to borrow gas $ for my interview tomorrow because I've hit the point of no return. The tooth fairy brought quarters tonight - not my best moment let me tell you. I know he'll be happy with anything and he's not a very materialistic child, but some things should just be. I feel like an awful parent. I know this is all supposed to be financial, but it's starting to feel like a case of "bad mom awards." I made a great dinner, we read and watched tv and things are fine. I can't believe I've been managing to live out of my pantry for so long. I should actually be able to make it, with the exception of milk, eggs, and bread, without shopping until I get back from CA.

I am hoping to get one of these two jobs I'm going on interviews for this week. The one tomorrow would be more like me - admin temp work. For now, I'll take whatever they want to throw at me. The other would be more (dollar per hour) but only 12 hours a week. Either one would make me happy - beggars can't be choosers - but still. Something more lucrative around the holidays would be good.

I gotta get going.. DSis is on her way and I don't wanna think about any of this anymore tonight.

xoxo-nklsmom

Gotta Have Faith..

2008-11-10T20:33:00.000-05:00

My weekly savings tip was all about unemployment. LOL. Very enlightening stuff. Anyway, I have 2 job interviews this week. One for a temp agency and one for a "home helper" type situation. We'll see if either of them work out.

Right now I'm just counting down the days until California. I want the heck out of PA so bad right now. I feel trapped and irritable all the time lately. I'm sick of being asked if I'm "ok." Nope, not even close to ok but everytime you ask I remember that things suck right now. So yea, maybe I do know that sounds bad, but really - for a few minutes I'll forget that I should be worried and freaking out and then I get "are you sure you're ok?" and I wanna vomit. End rant.

Just got back from swim and I need to throw the little man in bed so..
xoxo-nklsmom

Another Day.. Still No Dollars

2008-11-07T12:34:00.000-05:00

I traveled around town today.. I can't begin to tell you how many places I went. Wanna know what EVERYONE said?? "Try online. We don't have apps in the store anymore." Nice. So I went around for nothing. I could have enjoyed my coffee at my desk instead of wandering from store to store. The only thing that came of all the web browsing is an interview on Monday - blue light special anyone? Ms. Thing here can't even get in at Mickey D's. What the heck?? I am a smart woman, I've been to college - granted I didn't finish, but still.
I called unemployment and argued with them for about an hour. Well for about 10 minutes I argued, for 50 I sat on hold. I listed "other" as my reason for leaving my last job and to them it meant I'm somehow trying to defraud the government. The woman kept telling me - "If you're not telling me the truth we WILL find out and these funds will need to be returned." HELLO! Who lies about being let go?? Whatever. I told her, I KNEW I was telling the truth so I wasn't concerned. I should have my first measly $200 on Monday. I'll be paying the cell phone bill and that's it. I hope I can get in after this interview. Even if the pay is lousy it'll be more than UE.
Made a few more bucks on cash crate. I'm nearly 1/2 way to my goal.
That's all for now folks!
xoxo-nklsmom

Growl..

2008-11-06T16:47:00.000-05:00

So.. Here's my Cash Crate breakdown.
I had a balance of $1.35 from June when I went back in to try a bit.

10/27 $.35
10/31 $.90
11/03 $1.85
11/04 $3.90
11/05 $7.55
11/06 $1.55

I'm having trouble today and not happy about it. I know it's free money no matter how you look at it but when you put time in and don't get anything back it starts to get old.

Anyway, DS woke up sick today so I wasn't able to go out and get a job. I have a friend who manages the grocery store so I'm going to call him and see if he can get me in for now. Then I'm going to listen to Kacie and run over to Starbucks and see if I can work 3 nights a week there. DS has events on Monday and Thursday evenings that I just can't let go. He deserves to have his life as well and I want to be there for them. I think I can pull this off - especially if I can get some shifts while he's with his dad.
I'm not loving any of this and I'm not sure I have it in me to be one of those non-stop workers but I have only to look at DS to know I have to find it in me somewhere.

xoxo-nklsmom

more red blotchy mascara eyes..

2008-11-05T20:00:00.000-05:00

Interviewer said they'd get back to me in about 2 weeks. Tomorrow I go to McDonalds for an application. I can't believe it's coming to this..

Yawn..

2008-11-05T12:24:00.000-05:00

It's overcast. Makes me want to curl up and sleep the day away. I am losing energy here people! lol.

I have decided that I am going to use cashcrate as my "rainy day" fund. I want to have some kind of cash for California and, since I will have to use every spare cent I get to take care of expenses, I figured this would be the best plan. In the last two days I've made $11.70. I want to hit atleast $15 before I hit the sheets tonight. If I can maintain a few dollars a day than I shouldn't have a problem hitting my goal. (*update - now I've hit $14.55:))

I have the law office interview this evening. I am really nervous because this is the last of the people I've heard from. If I don't get this I'm going to have to just start piecing jobs together.. not a good plan.

That's about all for this morning - other than .. We did it!! I cried at 11pm last night in joy.. and tried to wake DS cuz he was pushing for Obama so hard, but he just smiled at me and rolled over. Killjoy! ;)

xoxo-nklsmom

We Rocked It..

2008-11-04T10:46:00.000-05:00

We did it. We were part of making a difference. DS came in the booth with me and we hit the Vote button together. It was an awesome feeling to have him in there with me, having his own little opinion. Took a picture of him with his self-made ribbon (My vote counts) and "his" ticket :)

xoxo-nklsmom

ps. If you're not sure who we supported - click on the pic of DS and it'll enlarge the ticket he's holding.

GO VOTE!!